Not convinced that folks who read the same 5 mainstream titles are the real comic fans

I was at a local shop in Austin last weekend and overheard a guy bragging he was a "true fan" because he reads every Marvel event. But he couldn't name a single artist from an Image series that's been out for 3 years. Is reading whatever gets pushed by big publishers really what makes someone a dedicated comic fan?

3 comments

3 Comments

max2231mo ago

Honestly, I used to feel the same way until a friend challenged me to step outside the big two. They handed me a copy of Saga vol. 1 and a random Department of Truth issue. Turns out digging into indie publishers like Image and Aftershock opened up way more interesting stories and art styles for me. Ngl, now I can't stand being stuck in just the Marvel/DC bubble myself.

gray_morgan1mo ago

Same kind of thing happens with music or movies honestly, once you get used to one label or studio you just assume everything else is worse without ever really trying it. It's wild how much good stuff gets missed just because it doesn't have the biggest name behind it.

ward.kim1mo agoTop Commenter

Right! The gatekeeping around mainstream vs indie stuff is so real. People act like anything without a big label is trash when really they just haven't bothered to look. I swear if more folks gave smaller studios or labels a fair shot theyd find some absolute gems. Its like a weird psychological block where you stick with what's familiar even if it gets boring. Missing out on creative risks and fresh voices just because of brand loyalty is honestly sad. Glad your friend pushed you out of that bubble.