Marvel rejected this couple, so they revolutionized the comic industry

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  • Опубліковано 8 бер 2024
  • How did two industry outsiders upend the comic industry?
    Sign up for Shopify today: www.shopify.com/matttt
    Start reading Elfquest FOR FREE! Right Now! Do It!
    elfquest.com/reading-room/eq-...
    THE COMPLETE ELFQUEST
    These are the beautiful collections that Dark Horse has put out. They look great on a shelf and reprint the original black and white art. Everyone should own at least the first volume.
    Complete Elfquest Vol 1 (The Full Original Quest) - amzn.to/3TaeVIm
    Complete Elfquest Vol 2 (Series 2 and 3) - amzn.to/3PaAWpj
    Complete Elfquest Vol 3 - amzn.to/3V722Sg
    Complete Elfquest Vol 4 - amzn.to/48PMo0x
    Complete Elfquest Vol 5 - amzn.to/4a44KvQ
    Complete Elfquest Vol 6 - amzn.to/3v0XIsW
    Complete Elfquest Vol 7 (The Final Quest) - amzn.to/3ItSLfi
    Instead of Volume 7 though, I actually recommend you pick up the original trades for the Final Quest, as Sonny Strait’s colors really make Wendy’s art look like animation.
    Final Quest Vol 1 - amzn.to/4a6wgZX
    Final Quest Vol 2 - amzn.to/4al2ssH
    Final Quest Vol 3 - amzn.to/4c8bwmq
    Final Quest Vol 4 - amzn.to/3wQJvzg
    Elfquest isn’t over! Wendy and Richard have continued the story in Stargazer’s Hunt:
    amzn.to/3wGewG5
    Everything before the final quest is available on elfquest.com/reading-room/
    COMIC SHOP by Dan Georino - amzn.to/437kpbw
    ART BOOKS
    Line of Beauty: The Art of Wendy Pini - amzn.to/3IuJbch
    The Art of Elfquest - amzn.to/3PaZX3K
    Elfquest: The Art of the Story - amzn.to/48LfaiU
    (As an amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
    Full Sources & Episode Notes: pastebin.com/c8Be01S6
    Photo & Asset Credits
    Phil Seuling Photo by Giles Desjardins en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phil_Se...
    Graphic Novels In Bookstore
    www.flickr.com/photos/morebyl...
    Box in Comic Shop Diagram
    www.freepik.com/free-vector/s...
  • Розваги

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,8 тис.

  • @mattwith4ts
    @mattwith4ts  2 місяці тому +312

    I just want to add a non-contractually-obligated thank you to Shopify for being my first sponsor. I've had a lot of sponsors reach out, and I chose Shopify because I truly believe in what they offer to creative people and business owners alike. Please check them out! www.shopify.com/matttt

    • @LuisSierra42
      @LuisSierra42 2 місяці тому +6

      I thought you had been doing this for years

    • @diviningrod2671
      @diviningrod2671 2 місяці тому +1

      Well done .what about one on Malibu comics ( I believe that's the correct name )
      Not necessarily a comic book consumer, but yoyr video is incredibly well done

    • @guessundheit6494
      @guessundheit6494 2 місяці тому

      I wanted to watch a video about WaRP but can't. What sort of fed up pile child fondler edits video and audio like that? Are you not smart enough to read a script without screwing up?

    • @MrChubakal
      @MrChubakal 2 місяці тому +1

      matt when will u make a jim lee video

    • @spiderjerusalem4009
      @spiderjerusalem4009 2 місяці тому

      Please do Alan Moore on Miracleman next (the very 1st superhero deconstruction)

  • @ElfQuest-Official
    @ElfQuest-Official 2 місяці тому +3206

    Thank you for this in-depth and raw look at the history of ElfQuest, Matt. We're beyond delighted at how it turned out.

    • @jasmines.3343
      @jasmines.3343 2 місяці тому +129

      And thank you for all for all of the magical moments over the years!

    • @louloop9137
      @louloop9137 2 місяці тому +73

      Maybe you may need to have the animation done by a Japanese studio like your influence ALAKAZAM. Studio Ghibli, Toei or any small Japanese Anime Studio will do.... A sample would be French Music DJ Duo DAFT PUNK's INTERSTELLA 5555 done by Toei Animation 🙏

    • @edricdayne3571
      @edricdayne3571 2 місяці тому +59

      Nothing but respect and love to the creators of Elf Quest. Loved the comics then and now. And it's amazing to learn that the girl who's physical beauty I so admired (as Red Sonja) was matched by an even more amazing inteligence, thoughtfulness and creativity. And hats of to Richard for his dedication , his talent, his belief and support over all those years. You guys (Wendy & Richard) are an amazing inspiration.

    • @ayakuweb
      @ayakuweb 2 місяці тому +41

      Thank you so much for ElfQuest! And congratulations on the announcement of ElfQuest's animated series!

    • @jonathanberry1111
      @jonathanberry1111 2 місяці тому +4

      Your guy's movie could still happen, just get AI on the job, it shouldn't be hard, need not cost much. Just look into generative AI, Sora etc...

  • @PeanutButter21505
    @PeanutButter21505 2 місяці тому +1797

    This channel came out of nowhere and is suddenly making the absolute best comics content

    • @NotSoThoughtful
      @NotSoThoughtful 2 місяці тому +31

      I am hearing this for the second time

    • @beatsbeercigarettes
      @beatsbeercigarettes 2 місяці тому +35

      Yeah this Matt with extra T’s fella is doing some great work.

    • @steventutein6866
      @steventutein6866 2 місяці тому +27

      Some of the best content, period! I honestly can't wait for an upload from this channel each month or so.

    • @johnnydropkicks
      @johnnydropkicks 2 місяці тому +8

      I couldn’t agree more.

    • @herpdsohardIderpdxD
      @herpdsohardIderpdxD 2 місяці тому +7

      I was thinking the same thing. Wild content!

  • @liwojenkins
    @liwojenkins 2 місяці тому +218

    I saw the title and I knew it would be Wendy and Richard. Their Elfquest stories absolutely made my early teenage years. My family were wanderers and I was an outcast wherever I went. Being able to identify with the struggles and triumphs of the characters in these stories meant so much to me at that time I can hardly express it. I lost my comic book collection to an evil step mother and I am wandering around old comic shops now and then and finding old Elfquest books to rebuild. There is no other fandom I feel such a deep love for. Thank you for everything Wendy and Richard.

    • @Saturndragonfly
      @Saturndragonfly Місяць тому +3

      I knew it was the Pini's, too🙂.

    • @persephoneszeliga
      @persephoneszeliga 25 днів тому +1

      So did I!
      My heart dropped. I really love Elfquest and it had a huge impact on me when I was young.

  • @BLMcKinney1
    @BLMcKinney1 2 місяці тому +73

    I had the amazing good fortune of working with the Pinis for many years when Elfquest expanded to multiple titles., and saw them go through many of the trials you so eloquently showed in this video essay. They are truly pioneers in comics and incredibly good, kind people that created these characters and stories that have touched me and so many other readers. Thank you matttt for putting together this tribute!

  • @CorbieMitleid
    @CorbieMitleid 2 місяці тому +698

    I have been part of Warp -- as staff, as writer, as friend -- since 1983, and even **I** didn't know a lot of this. Brilliantly done.

    • @liwojenkins
      @liwojenkins 2 місяці тому +28

      Thank you so much for your contribution to my childhood.

    • @kittydaddy2023
      @kittydaddy2023 2 місяці тому +9

      Maybe you should have spent more time around the watercooler

    • @odepoikanen
      @odepoikanen 2 місяці тому +35

      I wrote a fan letter to Pini's, to Warp Graphics, I think in late eighties. Can't remember what I wrote, simple fanboy stuff but never the less they sent me an autorgraphed Elfquest postcard from the other side of the world. Still one of my coolest possessions.

    • @joe77andino
      @joe77andino Місяць тому +1

      I remember enjoying the art as a child , skimming through those comics , I definitely should buy a
      Omnibus Book of Elf Quest . This woman was beyond ambitious.

  • @rogueguardian
    @rogueguardian 2 місяці тому +603

    There's a stan Lee quote that has stuck with me ever since I heard it. "If you have an idea that you genuinely think is good, Don't let some idiot talk you out of it."(I mentioned it in the Todd McFarlane video before) Wendy had an idea she wanted to share with the world and she refused to let the world tell her no.

    • @JLeeeP
      @JLeeeP 2 місяці тому +39

      I think Lee actually said, “If you find a good idea, immediately claim it’s yours.”

    • @jesseowenvillamor6348
      @jesseowenvillamor6348 2 місяці тому +3

      ​@@JLeeeP @rogueguardian is actually right with the quote.

    • @MichaelSmith-sd9kz
      @MichaelSmith-sd9kz 2 місяці тому +8

      I always say, "Let your darlings live!" Why make art if not to see your visions realized?!

    • @TheGrifhinx
      @TheGrifhinx 2 місяці тому

      So Stan Lee was an idiot?

    • @theothertonydutch
      @theothertonydutch 2 місяці тому

      Because a lot of people value art "made" (appropriated) by artificial intelligence at the same level as a skill that people have toiled over for decades.@@MichaelSmith-sd9kz

  • @percyvolnar8010
    @percyvolnar8010 2 місяці тому +9

    Met Richard and Windy in the late 80's.. Words cannot describe how awesome they were. They were pure magic to me...

  • @Niemand
    @Niemand 2 місяці тому +10

    After watching this, I hope and wish that they will one day see their work be turned in beautiful animations.

    • @metatrongroove2824
      @metatrongroove2824 19 днів тому

      being developed currently by FOX

    • @H3y_Im_Rob
      @H3y_Im_Rob 18 днів тому

      @@metatrongroove2824 ...Fingers crossed they don't try to change anything.

  • @SendFoodz
    @SendFoodz 2 місяці тому +1112

    any couple where one person feels like the other has all the talent "what can they possibly offer", look at these guys.. this girl could draw, write, discovered anime, invented cosplay, won hot girl contests.. but he taught himself how to do what she couldn't to make her dreams come true, cause he believed in her. wow

    • @stellviahohenheim
      @stellviahohenheim 2 місяці тому +44

      @@poppinc8145 Go touch grass, here we have such a beautiful story so why are you antagonizing people?

    • @nerdyoldwoman9651
      @nerdyoldwoman9651 2 місяці тому +92

      Yup. A good marriage is a partnership where 2+2=5.

    • @flavorwise3511
      @flavorwise3511 2 місяці тому +6

      Do you take everyone literally all the time? Life must be exhausting for you.

    • @flavorwise3511
      @flavorwise3511 2 місяці тому

      I thought it was widely understood that trolls love the energy they get from other people's angst over matters that honestly nobody needs to be fighting over when there are bigger priorities in life. @@stellviahohenheim

    • @Myhaay
      @Myhaay 2 місяці тому +1

      it's not 1970 bro, someone like wendy would most likely have thousands of courtships from social media or dating websites, poor richard here would probably be left fapping to onlyfans, stop looking at the past and connecting it to the present, it's been more than 50 years, shit doesn't work like that anymore, these guys got married in like 6 months, such were the times, can it happen? sure, will it happen as often as before? not in a million years.

  • @acuityproductions4142
    @acuityproductions4142 2 місяці тому +170

    Bro came out of the void and started making the BEST comic break-down videos

    • @thebarbaryghostsf
      @thebarbaryghostsf 2 місяці тому +12

      Seriously, he's been making some of the best content Ive seen on this platform in years.

    • @oversipelio983
      @oversipelio983 2 місяці тому +1

      I agree. Inspires me to get something done

  • @LowellLucasJr.
    @LowellLucasJr. 2 місяці тому +2

    Honestly, I hope Elfquest and Bone get a series or a movie that they so lovingly deserve! They have such unique narratives completely on their own! They are nothing like the norm and in this age of staleness, we need Original Stories like these!!!

  • @crashtv3732
    @crashtv3732 2 місяці тому +8

    I met them at my local comics shop back in the day. They were kind and gracious people.

  • @TitularHeroine
    @TitularHeroine 2 місяці тому +194

    ...I just realized Matttt mentioned Wendy was winning belly dancing contests -- and later that she had hip dysplasia. Wow. I now have more respect than I already did.
    Thanks to all involved for giving us this video! I have newfound gratitude for the Pinis as well, for leaving a bigger mark on comics as a whole than I was aware. This is a remarkable story.

  • @tariqjohnson9421
    @tariqjohnson9421 2 місяці тому +142

    Getting gifted the original drawing of Johnny quest is wild as hell. Think I’d lose my shit lol.

    • @noranizaazmi6523
      @noranizaazmi6523 2 місяці тому +3

      My bad, but isn’t it Jonny Quest? Without the h?

    • @demarcdegasol
      @demarcdegasol 2 місяці тому +1

      Your bad for surr

    • @melasn9836
      @melasn9836 2 місяці тому

      I saw that and immediately thought "Damn, she was lucky!" I was first introduced to Wendy's art via her doing one of the Comico Jonny Quest comics, never knew she was also such a big fangirl of the series!

  • @jasondudda490
    @jasondudda490 2 місяці тому +2

    Elfquest #1 was the first comic book I bought with my own money. The Pini's hold a special place in my heart.

  • @KayButtonJay
    @KayButtonJay 2 місяці тому +7

    Sometimes I feel jaded and negative about the world. Then I listen to something like this and find myself tearing up multiple times over and feeling better. Thank you

  • @Moodymongul
    @Moodymongul 2 місяці тому +114

    2:47 - this first image, that she drew at two years of age, is facinating to study.
    You can see her mind has already moved from 2d, basic stick figures.
    And is already trying to grasp three dimensional perspective, in her drawings.
    You can see her mind working, in the lines, attempting to grasp it. Very informative picture ..and Genius level stuff :)

  • @Chaoticalgrrrl12
    @Chaoticalgrrrl12 2 місяці тому +90

    Why am I about to cry 😭 that was so beautiful I love how Richard believed in her so much that he did everything he could to make her dream come true. I hope the animated series comes to fruition and it’s everything they thought and more 🎉🎉🥳👏🎊

  • @rbiznezz2
    @rbiznezz2 2 місяці тому +2

    You’ve done something that decades of comics media failed to do: make me interested in reading Elfquest. I’ve known about it forever, respected the creators, but hadn’t been compelled to pick it up

  • @ivotorok1174
    @ivotorok1174 2 місяці тому +5

    I care close to nothing about comics and don’t know anything about 99% of the people and subjects portrayed in your channel, yet without a fail your videos get me excited and deeply interested. You’re amazing at your work, keep it up!!!

  • @seakelp3508
    @seakelp3508 2 місяці тому +148

    I'm 58. I've read Elfquest cover to cover. My animation teacher, in college, had his own company and was approached to create a full feature film.

    • @splashpit
      @splashpit 2 місяці тому +12

      I’m curious how much a manga style feature film would have cost in the 90s , they had a dozen or more staff at the time they should have just hired another member that only worked on the movie and independently sold the dvd through comic stores

    • @kneau
      @kneau 2 місяці тому

      Abby Lou Productions is sweating.

    • @atilax6452
      @atilax6452 2 місяці тому +1

      ​@@kneau what?

    • @Ben-zr4ho
      @Ben-zr4ho 2 місяці тому +8

      ​@@splashpit
      A dozen people making an animated feature film? No wait that's not what you said is it? You said they should have hired ONE PERSON to make an animated feature film? Are you high?
      Then put said film on DVD... In the 90s. And sell it independently through comic stores? Ok...

    • @kirbyjoe7484
      @kirbyjoe7484 2 місяці тому +3

      @@splashpit You need dozens of very highly skilled people to animate a movie.

  • @kidsComics
    @kidsComics 2 місяці тому +180

    My 1st _Mandela effect_ as a child was that "There was a ElfQuest movie?" 🤔
    Yeah, there was: The Last Unicorn, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, Heavy Metal, Valhalla, Ewoks,The Black Cauldron, Willow and there was...🙄😳

    • @kneau
      @kneau 2 місяці тому +24

      Sorry if the video covers this (I'm only at 9:30 ) but the movie you might be thinking of is _ElfQuest - Fire and Flight_ a "video comic book" briefly available, decades ago, on VHS.

    • @nemesiscomix
      @nemesiscomix 2 місяці тому +8

      Holy crap i have seen that at my creepy uncle's house

    • @thorocomments817
      @thorocomments817 2 місяці тому +1

      @@nemesiscomixdamn…

    • @DJ_POOP_IT_OUT_FEAT_LIL_WiiWii
      @DJ_POOP_IT_OUT_FEAT_LIL_WiiWii 2 місяці тому +1

      @@nemesiscomix were you touched?

    • @nemesiscomix
      @nemesiscomix 2 місяці тому +17

      @@DJ_POOP_IT_OUT_FEAT_LIL_WiiWii Of course I was touched! By the plight of the hopeful yet akward elvin mages as they...oh you mean bad touched....ummm....no.

  • @desmien679
    @desmien679 2 місяці тому +2

    Wndy Pini was a close friend of my mother back in college which is also when she was drawing the characters for Elfquest. As a kid she used to send many of the Elfquest and comics from Apple Comics and Warp Graphics which I still have.

  • @ashcasseragonzalez3701
    @ashcasseragonzalez3701 2 місяці тому +4

    As a cartoonist who wants to make work that is personal and big and independant, this video brought me to tears by the end! Thank you for keeping comic history alive, not enough people do

  • @anthonybird546
    @anthonybird546 2 місяці тому +37

    Artist, cosplayer, indie comics, otaku, what a futurist!

  • @christianlazaro6868
    @christianlazaro6868 2 місяці тому +224

    The goat of QUALITY comic book video essays

  • @jbird976
    @jbird976 2 місяці тому +4

    My grandpa used to take me to yard sales every Saturday, which is nothing short of amazing to a eight or nine-year-old boy, but at one of these yard sales, I found these immense thick elfquest graphic novels. The first experience i had with comics. Elfquest was so unique. I loved it.

  • @pattongilbert
    @pattongilbert 2 місяці тому +3

    This channel is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Every episode is magical, like a high-quality documentary. Truly something special.😊

  • @Shan_Troker
    @Shan_Troker 2 місяці тому +134

    This might be your best video yet, I have to imagine it took quite a bit more research and hunting down information, I'm glad the Pinis were so cooperative with this (and that they're still together, that part made me tear up I won't lie).

    • @TheSeeking2know
      @TheSeeking2know 2 місяці тому +7

      I agree. The quality of the story made it more so.

  • @HywelapDafydd
    @HywelapDafydd 2 місяці тому +71

    The experience of Wendy and Richard is so beautiful ❤
    Considering the story of the comic's industry is full of exploitation, erasure, betrayal, and broken projects, the fact they overcome all their obstacles to the success they is outstanding.

  • @johncolosimo1863
    @johncolosimo1863 2 місяці тому +1

    I was a die-hard Elfquest fan from the moment it hit my local comic shop! It's about time the Pinis receive acknowledgement on a major platform

  • @Sagalusss
    @Sagalusss 2 місяці тому +1

    man i am once again in tears. glad to be alive in this horrible world full of beautiful art and stories

  • @labelle9921
    @labelle9921 2 місяці тому +36

    ✨️My eyes see with joy! ✨️ As an Elfquest fan for over 35 years, I'm so glad the Pinis are finally being recognized for their revolutionary creation.

  • @gabrielhunter3351
    @gabrielhunter3351 2 місяці тому +60

    Super nice video. As a kid I loved the ElfQuest books. My mom's friend happened to know the Pini's and got some of my drawings to show them. A while later when she gave back the drawings it included a letter from Wendy encouraging me to keep it up. It was very special to me. Great artist. Great people.

    • @ClickToSeeMore-zy9fc
      @ClickToSeeMore-zy9fc 2 місяці тому +1

      Wow! Amazing !

    • @maldor56
      @maldor56 2 місяці тому +1

      Omg as I kid I sent letters almost daily to authors and Wendy always sent somthing back. I probably sent her 15 letters in 3 years and I always got something back. Super awesome person!

  • @headrushindi
    @headrushindi 2 місяці тому +1

    I am not , and was really never a fan of the comic book arts even in my youth in the 70's. However as a painter, and musician over the years i can absolutely appreciate the Drive, passion , talent , and genius of these stellar creators on their life's journey of making their art their own , and sharing their vision with the world. This couple as well as others in the genre were the trailblazers with the vision to change the world of comic art , and lead the way for the visions of the future. Kudo's to you Matttt, for sharing this awesome story with us ! Well Done !

  • @Homemadegameguru
    @Homemadegameguru 2 місяці тому +2

    I really needed to see this video! As an indie comic book publisher, hearing Wendy's story and the persistence of her and Richard against the odds is inspiring on so many levels. Thanks, man!

  • @patora13
    @patora13 2 місяці тому +37

    Never read Elfquest. But this story brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing.

    • @MeanMrMustard1
      @MeanMrMustard1 2 місяці тому +4

      Aww! Now read Eflquest!

    • @CelesteLunaRael
      @CelesteLunaRael 2 місяці тому +1

      Yeah. I'm gonna read it. I have never heard of it. So glad for this channel. So glad for the Pinis

    • @The_One_Cosmos
      @The_One_Cosmos Місяць тому +1

      There are condensed book volumes of Elfquest now and affordable.
      In general, Elfquest is worth reading and seeing the amazing art and the deep and captivating stories for anyone to experience.

  • @esiasfrost2306
    @esiasfrost2306 2 місяці тому +62

    Man their whole story is so beautiful almost every other comic Creator Duo has a creative falling out or get so wrapped up in their work that they lose the passion for their art but for them they kept doing what they loved and even put their work and lives on hold to help repair and rekindle their relationship and still get to finish their work on their terms

  • @widdrshinswonders
    @widdrshinswonders 2 місяці тому +1

    When I read the title I was hoping it would be about Elf Quest. I love that Wendy taught Sonny Strait so much in the industry.

  • @frankyrodriguez5634
    @frankyrodriguez5634 2 місяці тому +2

    Im just happy they're still together. What a ride. I'm so happy I clicked on your crazy cap thumbnail when it dropped, videos have only gotten better! Always look forward to them! Can't wait to see what else you got in store!

  • @crossroadahead
    @crossroadahead 2 місяці тому +29

    This channel is the definition of QUALITY over QUANTITY.

  • @VortexBunche
    @VortexBunche 2 місяці тому +108

    The first decade of Elfquest stands as my favorite comics series. Superb artwork, great storytelling, and unbeatable characterization.

  • @antonydrossos5719
    @antonydrossos5719 2 місяці тому +1

    You know, I've never read Elfquest, though, of course I've heard of it. I appreciate the struggles Wendy & Richard went through to get their vision realized.

  • @owensreviews625
    @owensreviews625 2 місяці тому +165

    I had only recently heard of Elfquest, but after watching this video I gained a greater appreciation for it as I saw the great lengths Wendy and Richard went to in order to have their dream/vision realized. Well done, Matttt

    • @princessofbalance
      @princessofbalance 2 місяці тому

      you can read it online too they have an official site for it!

    • @MeanMrMustard1
      @MeanMrMustard1 2 місяці тому +4

      And now you're gonna start reading it, right? Right??

    • @princessofbalance
      @princessofbalance 2 місяці тому

      ben reading it for a number of years and I love it@@MeanMrMustard1

  • @LongshotLynx
    @LongshotLynx 2 місяці тому +37

    I was living on Kodiak island in the late 80’s when I discovered Elf Quest. I was living in a USCG military quadplex apt with a devided basement. There was a HS guy who roomed in one of the two rooms at each end of the basement. I snuck into it and stole two of his Elf Quest trades. When I was quickly discovered I was told that he didn’t care if I wanted to read them as long as I asked.
    Just my story.

  • @joiemiller2283
    @joiemiller2283 Місяць тому +1

    I remember the letters pages, with full addresses of people. It's astonishing to believe there was that type of innocence then.

  • @summeriscake_8460
    @summeriscake_8460 2 місяці тому +2

    I loved this video. I've been drawing a webcomic for the past two years and I've had phases of beating myself up for putting so much work into something that likely won't ever land me a job or be profitable. Finding out about the story of elfquest has kind of shown me that it's okay even if you're only doing it to tell a story you want to share with the world.

  • @damonteufel
    @damonteufel 2 місяці тому +12

    I came across EQ in 84 at the age of 10 with the big graphic novels and fell in love instantly. The only club I ever joined in school was the ElfQuest club, and even had the RPG. Cut to almost 30 years later, I introduce my wife to EQ, reorder all the books, and now they sit on her bookshelf. Now I discover it's all online for free? The story truly holds up. I hope all the kids out there stumble across it.

  • @irishstew2133
    @irishstew2133 2 місяці тому +64

    This channel is so POSITIVE!!! Thank you for highlighting such beautiful and human stories. I really appreciate your outlook.

  • @thomasgrable1746
    @thomasgrable1746 Місяць тому +1

    I was at the 1981 Comic Book Convention in San Diego, a tiny fraction of the size that it is today. Gary Owen was the announcer for the costume contest, and there were two huge groups dressed as ElfQuest characters. He remarked, "I didn't know Leonard Nimoy had so many illegitimate children," which got a huge laugh from the crowd.

  • @WEKM
    @WEKM 2 місяці тому +1

    Elfquest was my introduction to comics outside of Marvel and DC.

  • @dreamsalamander
    @dreamsalamander 2 місяці тому +20

    Maybe its your narrative ability but this couple's video biography feels like a beautifully written story. I rooted for them the whole 45min of the video and smiled when they made breakthroughs or wise decisions about career and relationships

  • @MysteriousSoulreaper
    @MysteriousSoulreaper 2 місяці тому +81

    There are so many videos you've put up full of doom and gloom, so it's really nice to see someone's story with a happy ending for once. They can really be proud of what they've accomplished.

  • @SongsOfSavagery
    @SongsOfSavagery 2 місяці тому +1

    Glad to hear someone telling the tale of the Pini's. Such wonderful folks.

  • @wemdoe
    @wemdoe 3 дні тому

    Props to them for turning things around when their marriage needed it. ❤

  • @danielfrost473
    @danielfrost473 2 місяці тому +27

    Wow! Someone remembers ElfQuest. My favourite comics by far - such a rich, decades spanning story and awesome characters (I still haven't given up on Winnowill's redemption) - and every panel is pure art! Thanks so much to Wendy and Richard for making our lives much more wonderful. And the comic Wendy drew together with John Byrne was historic - two of the greatest comic book artists teaming up.

  • @jamesclukey7488
    @jamesclukey7488 2 місяці тому +35

    I had the honor of meeting Richard and Wendy Pini at a the Astronomicon in Rochester, N.Y. a couple of years ago. They were very gracious and signed a book of theirs for me. I have a full run of the original comic, so I've followed them since the beginning. They are both extremely talented and professional people. Being a self published comic book artist I'm aware of how focused they have to be in order to make a fantasy world come to life ! Wendy has always been an inspiration to me and I've always been a fan of her cosplay of RED SONYA with Frank Thorne ! Thanks for giving us their story and the struggles they had to overcome throughout their lives. They are a pair of very strong people.

  • @acsaudiodramas
    @acsaudiodramas 2 місяці тому +2

    Back in the 90's I read an article on Elfquest, still being a teen. Now I'm so thankful to finally learn the whole story behind that comic and the biographical part is even more touching and interesting

  • @edisonvikings2009
    @edisonvikings2009 2 місяці тому +1

    I was a huge ElfQuest fan (and letter to the editor writer) and got to meet my two favorite “elf” creators Barry Blair (RIP) with “Elflord” and both Pini’s at a few SD Comic Cons. (Barry Blair’s story is one that needs to be told.)

  • @AaronAbernethy
    @AaronAbernethy 2 місяці тому +16

    Mattt shows again why he is the BEST comics historian on UA-cam.
    Stellar work, yet again.

  • @buh2001j
    @buh2001j 2 місяці тому +29

    I was born in Gilroy and my second home was the public library, the Elfquest books were always out on display. Thank you so much for making this video and sharing the Pini's artistic journey, it was very moving.

  • @Numenides
    @Numenides 2 місяці тому +1

    I remember, when I saw Elfquest the 1st time in my Comic-Store. It was so different and fresh. I instantly knew, it was something special. I still go through the pages after all these years, cause the early numbers have a magic I can't describe. Thx 4 this video, I didn't knew of their struggles. U never think of the people behind this art form and their struggles, to make it happen.

  • @whssy
    @whssy 2 місяці тому +1

    I never read Elfquest. Watching this video made me realise that I need to change that. I had no idea the drawings were so intricate. You can clearly see how it influenced series like Halo Jones.

  • @timroark9940
    @timroark9940 2 місяці тому +33

    I'm not a comic person at all, but grew up with plenty of comic inspired content. You're easily one of the best video essayists I've stumbled upon on UA-cam, and I've found so much joy in learning about stories like this one that would have never come across my radar if it weren't for you. Keep up the great work!

    • @kool4209
      @kool4209 2 місяці тому

      It’s cognitive bias 😂😂😂 ppl love deluding their minds with shxt they believe is important.

  • @Dancrept
    @Dancrept 2 місяці тому +11

    Beautiful history, I think that Wendy and Richard deserve a full movie more than Elfquest

  • @Austin_Soares
    @Austin_Soares 21 день тому

    This couple's story should be a movie. I was actually moved to tears hearing this.

  • @rcjic26
    @rcjic26 2 місяці тому +1

    I am approaching 70 years old now and I still own hundreds of comic books - new and very old. I did not know of ElfQuest back in the day. I will now sit down and read the complete series. Thank you for a well told history. I am truly seized of the matter. Peace.

  • @calebgilbert6855
    @calebgilbert6855 2 місяці тому +4

    I'm 50 now and still have the photo of me as a chubby 10 year old dressed up like Tam for Halloween. I can't adequately express my appreciation for getting the backstory of the Pinis after all the years.

  • @Dupreegod
    @Dupreegod 2 місяці тому +25

    This story made me cry. Thinking about my own journey with music and content creation and my understanding of appreciation to independent music. This was such an amazing story

  • @Mannahnin
    @Mannahnin 2 місяці тому +1

    Absolutely wonderful. ElfQuest was very important for me when I was young, and I found myself openly weeping in the late minutes of this video. Genuinely moved.
    Bravo.

  • @Justin-jr6ny
    @Justin-jr6ny 2 місяці тому +1

    The way Rick looks at Wendy at the end.. the power of love, vision, and devotion. Inspiring 💚

  • @megamcee
    @megamcee 2 місяці тому +10

    I'm not even interested in comics, but your videos simply tell interesting human stories, that just so happen to be related to comics. And I LOVE interesting human stories

  • @bufordhighwater9872
    @bufordhighwater9872 2 місяці тому +8

    Elfquest is one of those books that I wish I had read earlier in my life than I did.

  • @gravy9280
    @gravy9280 2 місяці тому +1

    I'm 50. I discovered ElfQuest on a spinning rack at my local supermarket in the farm town I grew up in. I was looking for the latests "ROM, SpaceKnight", but it wasn't out yet. Epic Comics (Marvel) was reprinting EQ in color at that time. It was issue #8, and I was captured by the cover. And you're right about the importance of letter columns... I'd never heard of Lord of the Rings until someone compared EQ to it in one of the letters columns. I was hooked. I had my grandmother take me to any comic shop I could find in the phonebook, collecting EVERY issue I could find, even managing to find the Fantasy Quarterly issue. The EQ family got me through a really dark period of family upheaval in my life. I was 11 when I found it... 39 years later, I'm happy to share the books with my 14 year old daughter.

  • @JimNgStunts
    @JimNgStunts 2 місяці тому +1

    I grew up on Elfquest! What a hit of nostalgia this video was! So happy to hear that Wendy and Richard are still healthy and doing well. Excited for their animated series!

  • @ayakuweb
    @ayakuweb 2 місяці тому +8

    I watched this video with my brother and he said at the end: "The real Elfquest is the friends we made along the way" and although it sounded meme-y, I thought it was very appropriate.
    Another great video, Matt! I always get the case of the feels after each of your videos.

  • @jjl8296
    @jjl8296 2 місяці тому +11

    Elfquest is beautiful and timeless. Even more knowing the story of its creators ✨️ they were way ahead of their time.

  • @marshalsea000
    @marshalsea000 2 місяці тому +1

    Growing up in the 80s Elfquest was essential reading.
    Thank you for a loving look and rightfully indicating how important Elfquest was to the whole history of fantasy.
    Comics are still not getting their due and Elfquest in particular.
    To Wendy and Richard - thank you, you allowed escape from growing up in the very brutal reality of 80s UK - oppressive govt, nuclear threat, and AIDs.
    Damn we need this now...

  • @JoeChiappetta
    @JoeChiappetta 2 місяці тому +1

    Wow, what an incredible and essential archive in the saga of comics history! As someone who followed in their trailblazing footsteps in so many ways, thank you for telling the very heart-moving tale of Wendy and Richard Pini.

  • @JMXico
    @JMXico 2 місяці тому +4

    This story is so inspiring and goes to show the best art comes from passion rather than checkboxes from the big main publishers. Who knows, maybe elfquest will eventually be turned into a series and movie down the line but that doesn't take away from the success it already had as a comic book series

  • @marthweh7398
    @marthweh7398 2 місяці тому +43

    These videos always make me emotional but this one hit hard

  • @wolfwiz9973
    @wolfwiz9973 2 місяці тому +2

    What an inspiration!!! Finally, a success story I have no idea about where imdustry outsiders made waves wih an original and heartfelt narrative.
    It mirrors what my friends and I are going through right now trying to create a comic-book that says a lot about alienation and overcoming barriers with strangers in a strange new world. Thank you for sharing this with us! 🌌🧙‍♂️

  • @lemat8558
    @lemat8558 2 місяці тому +1

    I literally had no idea! 5 minutes in - and I was trapped (in a good way). What a beautiful and heroic couple. So glad they did not let go of their dream. Truly astonishing, and yes, her art is beautiful.

  • @studious_nonchalance
    @studious_nonchalance 2 місяці тому +9

    I have been a fan for 40 years now, I cannot begin to tell you what an incredible impact Elfquest has had on my life. Thank you for bringing the background story to life!

  • @FRIDAY8BALL
    @FRIDAY8BALL 2 місяці тому +22

    Additionally, as others have stated, please continue with these videos Matt, they are great.
    Maybe sonething on the British Scene about Pat Mills and 2000 AD; how 2000 AD is where many many great writers and artists got their big break in the industry...

    • @djnekroman
      @djnekroman 2 місяці тому +3

      Oh man, I'd love it if he covered 2000 AD in some way.

    • @FRIDAY8BALL
      @FRIDAY8BALL 2 місяці тому

      @@djnekroman Definitely. I met Al Ewing at a comic convention 10+ years ago and got his autograph. The guy is now writing for Marvel !

  • @bobblehead67
    @bobblehead67 2 місяці тому +1

    Comics equivalent of Lux and Ivy of the Cramps; a couple devoted to each other and their vision create something of lasting importance and influence. Beautiful true story.

  • @the120cxx
    @the120cxx 2 місяці тому +1

    Never read elf quest, but the story of trying to make it be quite the tale in itself.
    Big Respect. 👍

  • @CharlesBarouch
    @CharlesBarouch 2 місяці тому +17

    I attended the Red Sonja and the Wizard show. She commanded that room. Many years later, I got to discuss that with her.

    • @ebaziuk
      @ebaziuk 2 місяці тому +1

      What was it like? What was the tone? Was it comedy? Dramatic? Geeky? Campy? Lewd? I'm very curious how this show went.

  • @Mister6
    @Mister6 2 місяці тому +11

    I proudly own all the original WaRP Graphics published issues of Elfquest. I was a huge collector while they were being published but each new issue was the highlight of my month. I also still have the original coloured editions which allowed me to experience the original saga in a magical new way. Elfquest shaped my childhood in a lot of ways and I will always be grateful to the Pinis.

  • @Rorta18
    @Rorta18 2 місяці тому +1

    I’m honestly so surprised by how touching Wendy and Richard’s story is. It’s amazing that in a time of great stress and uncertainty they were able to strengthen their relationship and continue to grow as artists and a couple. It really is so inspiring. Thank you for making all of us aware of their story and this incredible piece of art that I for one can not wait to read and watch

  • @syrusangi8743
    @syrusangi8743 2 місяці тому +1

    Wendy n Richard are a match made in heaven. Their dedication n perseverance towards not only their job but themselves as individuals n a unit is so inspiring. I'm so glad they have each other living the life they deserve n for them to share such valuable pieces of themselves to the rest of the world... Urgh not enough words.
    Thanks Matt for introducing me to these awesome n thank you, Wendy n Richard for being awesome. God bless 😊

  • @iamaspacecalf
    @iamaspacecalf 2 місяці тому +19

    One of the big things I like about your videos is the context they give me. When I was growing up, I saw Elfquest in my local library, but I also grew up when manga was starting to take off in the US: I subscribed to Shonen Jump and would watch Dragon Ball Z with my friends. I also, consumed things that Elfquest would go on to inspire, so I don't think I ever really appreciated it. When all you have to compare a thing too is what had learned it's lessons, it's hard to understand how special it is. Having the context for when it was made, and what it took really makes me want to go and check it out, see what I missed.

  • @Mugiwara2k
    @Mugiwara2k 2 місяці тому +10

    Man, this story legit made me tear up.

  • @Goodengelt
    @Goodengelt 2 місяці тому +1

    A child of the 80s, and one who would never touch a comic or graphic novel before college l, I have just now through this first heard about ElfQuest. Thank-you for the enlightening.

  • @joelman1989
    @joelman1989 2 місяці тому +1

    “The reward of patience is patience” that last quote has left me floored. It’s a quote I know I will never forget.

  • @TReactz
    @TReactz 17 днів тому

    As a new comic book creator. You have my subscription. these videos give me hope for my series....dealing with me being broke but also not wanting to work for anyone else. hopping from job to job just to fund my dreams. thank you for making these videos. they keep my hope and inspiration alive. I have my first panel at a convention in july at Dreamcon. This will be my first time showing my comic to what will be to me, the WORLD. I am so grateful. I respect comics and manga because at its roots, it starts from people who essentially have nothing but their passion and drive. I will keep working hard to make my dreams leave even the slightest mark. Im 3 and a half years in, and I will keep pushing.

  • @Tymbus
    @Tymbus 2 місяці тому +32

    .I watched this video with a tear in my eye. I too was adopted but was misunderstood and, although I drew, my main trajectory was to be an academic or, in my Dad's eyes, a smart ass. And I was autistic I recognise Wendy Pini's firm belief in herself. I never got into Elfquest when it came out. I'll hunt it out. Great video, great creators.

    • @tamarapeterson1844
      @tamarapeterson1844 2 місяці тому +3

      I have met so many people who were adopted and their adoptive parents made their lives pure misery. It is so sad. I cannot say I have ever met someone who was treated well by their adopted parents. How hard that must be...

    • @Tymbus
      @Tymbus 2 місяці тому +1

      @@tamarapeterson1844 I think mine tried their best. But Mum was a perfectionist and attention seeking and Dad was a depressed alcoholic so they had their struggles. Fortunately I believed in myself

  • @METAS0MA
    @METAS0MA 2 місяці тому +13

    Insane this channel isn't even a year old. Beyond just comics media, this is one of the best channels on the entire platform.

  • @DrunkenDweorg
    @DrunkenDweorg 2 місяці тому +1

    Growing up reading both comics and high fantasy I'm in love with your channel and I've learnt so much about comic book history and discovered so many new artists new artists because of you. Keep doing what you're doing.