"Scenes from the Small Press:
Mainstream Raw"
A film by Rich Henn

In 2001, artist Rich Henn began shooting footage for a documentary about the comic book industry. That film, "Scenes from the Small Press: The Road to SPX" will debut at Comic-Con International in San Diego - but Henn found that he had much more material than would make the final cut.

Henn interviewed a number of noted comic creators, and wanted to share the uncut footage with fans. "Mainstream Raw" features several intimate conversations with some of the industry's movers and shakers, as well as small press stalwarts.

The film opens with a rooftop interview with Joe Quesada, who shares his method of breaking into the industry, and talks about his ascent to power at Marvel Comics. Quesada comes across as amiable, safely skirting around any potentially controversial statements. This is in sharp contrast with Frank Miller, the film's next subject, who shares his frank views on censorship and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Despite Miller's calm demeanor, a manic gleam is evident in his eyes - making the interview that much more compelling.

Next up is Dave Gibbons, discussing his thoughts on the "dark and gritty" trend of the late 80s and the future of the comics medium. Also representing the artist contingent is Matt Wagner, discussing the success of projects like GRENDEL and MAGE. One of the film's highlights is Wagner's recollection of his strangest encounter with a rabid fan. Following that, editor Bob Shreck talks about his comic roots in the small press, before moving to DC.

Perhaps the most revealing interview is with artist Colleen Doran, recently in the spotlight with the release of DC's ORBITER graphic novel. Quite willing to share her inner thoughts and insecurities, Doran's stories about her early days in the field are both eye opening and frightening. Doran proves to be the most engaging personality in the film.

Not to be outdone, Frank Miller wraps up the film with his keynote address from the 2001 Harvey Awards. Despite a rambling opening, Miller makes a strong point about the mixed signals the comics industry gives to the "outside world."

"Mainstream Raw" is indeed raw. Henn allows the footage - shot everywhere from restaurants to "artist's alley" to a comic store - play out unedited. But the fact that the interviews are done in less-than-ideal conditions only lends to the film's charm and intimacy.

Also included on the DVD is a 15-minute preview for "The Road to SPX." Aside from the above creators, the trailer also shows interview snippets from Carla Speed McNeil, Dave Sim, and Brian Michael Bendis. Interspersed with convention shots, the preview provides a tantalizing taste of the upcoming film.

For more information on "Scenes from the Small Press: Mainstream Raw," visit www.timespell.com.

Reviewer: Doug Giffin

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Doug Giffin is the creator/writer of Harlow's End: Elijah's Tale (as previously seen in Digital Webbing Presents #3). To see more of Doug's work, visit his website at www.psychoengine.com

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