Todd Abbot Finds Model Inspiration?

Special to DFG Online
By Smokeng Crackpipesalot

When Todd Abbot announced he was launching a new superhero comic-book, Dog-Man, many were curious as to how this new character would look. DFG janitor Ernest Wontelalie, set it upon himself to uncover the first look for our loyal DFG readers. While not a drawn image, Ernest found near Todd Abbot's workstation this incredible image of what may prove to be Todd's inspiration for the project. Mr. Abbot could not be reached for comment as he is still deep in the Haum bamba ya hum bamba he ya hum bamba ya hey Haum bamba ya hum bamba he ya hum bamba jungle. More on this story as it develops.

DFG Comics to Help Form Coalition Government?

By Bob Barnes
Special to DFG ONLINE!

Word has just hit the streets that DFG Comics Co-Publisher and Vice-President Darryl Andrews has been approached by Federal NDP leader Jack Layton to help form a coalition government. Support for the Liberal-NDP-Bloc alliance seems to be crumbling as the Liberal party seeks to install a new leader and seems determined to go it alone. Jack Layton, determined to topple the Harper government, approached the DFG VP late yesterday in a reported back-room deal that will bring an NDP-DFG alliance into the House of Commons to form a government. "People are really fed up with what is happening in Canadian politics, right now," said Mr. Andrews, "Jack called me and said, 'Look, Darryl, DFG Comics is just about as popular as any of the parties in the House at present. I think with the support of DFG fans, we could have a groundswell of support and convince the Governor General that we could topple the Harper government and form a government of our own that would ensure at least 4 years of stability for Canadians during this time of economic crisis.'" When asked how he responded, Mr. Andrews, clearly enthused said, "Hell, ya! I'm in Jack." Todd Abbot is already reported to be seeking a cabinet seat in the prospective government.

Todd Abbot "Side-lined" by Sudden Illness

By Nofuel Surcharge
Special to D.F.G. Online
Since the untimely passing of Flora Lovartalot, Comic-book Artist Todd Abbot has been suffering with bouts of mental illness. Thinking Billy Corrigan of Smashing Pumpkins (whom he's never met) is trying to enlist his services in drawing the cover album art for the band's next release is but one of the many curious behaviors he is exhibiting. More curious was his actions as he layed down outside his mobile home and announced he was going to grow turkeys. Abbot is showing all kinds of symptoms of mental illness including: shifting between giddy and nonsensical, happy to depressed, crying, and semi-normal, to belligerent, foul mouthed, vulgar and destructive behavior over a period of hours, back and forth. He's barely slept or eaten since Flora's death. Darryl Andrews, DFG Co-Publisher commented, "I doubt the validity of the psychiatric diagnosis due to the sudden onset and severity of the symptoms, and suspect physio-neurological problems instead. Todd is simply, one messed up person". Todd Abbot could not be reached for comment as he is on foot in the Amalfi Coast.

Flora Lovartalot -- Dead at 52

Special to DFG ONLINE!

by Bob Barnes

A wave of torrential sadness washed over the comic book industry today as word quickly emerged that DFG Colourist extraordinaire, Flora Lovaratlot, has died. Ms. Lovartalot, known for her bold colour choices and flamboyant hats was a relative newcomer to DFG. Fans have been keeping vigil outside the Carnage City General Hospital for over a week following the tragic shelving accident that hospitalized her. One fan, who introduced the "tether for Flora" campaign drove all the way from North Carolina to lead in a special vigil. "I'm devestated that I got here too late," said Louise Expatcanuck, "she was a special person and left us too young. Mark my words, I will not rest until every single IKEA shelf is safely teathered!" Another well-known DFG enthusiast, Javier Santamotzarello, commented, "It's a sad day... Flora introduced a look to DFG that revolutionized their line. Until Flora arrived, DFG only published in black and white. Flora revitalized their whole look. She will be sorely missed." DFG corporate HQ issued this terse press release: "It is our sad duty to advise the public that Flora Lovaratlot has died. We express our deep sympathy to her family." When asked for comment, Comic book giant Todd Abbot (who has recently been romantically linked to Ms. Lovartalot) stated, "That just shows once again how insensitive those clowns are... FLORA HAD NO FAMILY!!!" This reporter could not help but shed a tear as the crowds gathered outside DFG HQ to lay flowers and wreaths in Flora's memory.

Happy 38th Birthday to DFG Co-Founder Darryl Todd Andrews!

A special commemorative print from an original Dan Graves pencil drawing is now available as part of our celebration of this special occasion. The print features a portrait of DFG Co-founder Darryl Andrews surround by five of his greatest superhero creations - Captain Nepto, Nightmare, the Warrior, and Cyclone & Tornado. Available for a limited time only and in a limited number of signed editions (signed by both Dan Graves & Darryl Andrews), only $595.00 (plus applicable taxes).

More Spy Comics Pages Leaked!

By Bob Barnes

Special to DFG ONLINE!

Back in August two pages of the highly anticipated Spy Comics Presents the Invincibles #5 were leaked by an inside source at DFG Corporate HQ (click here for story and pages). Now, amidst the pandemonium generated by the freak accident and hospitalization of DFG colourist, Flora Lovartalot, two further pages of Dan Graves pencilled artwork have been posted online. Pages 3 and 4 reveal the mounting tenion in the concluding chapter of "The Battle of the Invincibles." Again, the suspected source is DFG janitor, Ernest Wontellalie, who has already received several reprimands for his previous leaks. Oscar Foodlecollins, DFG webmaster has provided DFG ONLINE with scans of the pages. "I'm shocked... and saddened," said DFG Publisher and Vice-President Dan Graves, upon hearing of the leaked pages, "That someone would take advantage of the confusion of this tragic situation to loot the DFG offices for artwork to post on the internet is just plain unconscionable." Chief Augustus Smith, head of DFG security also commented, "We really have egg on our faces, this time. This sort of thing seems to now standard for DFG staffers. Let me tell you, this time we are going to lay charges and get to the bottom of such scandalous behaviour." At this hour, DFG legal counsel, Sir Milton Goldfarbstein, KG, QC, LLB, PhD, is in court attempting to obtain an injunction to have the pages removed from the internet.

Injury to Colourist Sparks Near Riot

By Bob Barnes
DFG ONLINE Staff Reporter

Fans took to the streets this afternoon after learning of the freak accident that hospitalized DFG colourist Flora Lovartalot late last evening (click here for full story). What can only be described as a near-riot broke out in front of DFG corporate HQ. Carnage City Police Chief Seamus McMullen (pictured in the top photograph) was forced to subdue one distraught fan who was calling for the blood of DFG co-publishers Graves & Andrews. "I'll tell ya, it was quite a scene," said McMullen, "fortunately, after some tazer applications, tear gas, and rubber bullets, the crowd dispersed peacefully." A similar crowd gathered later outside the Carnage City General Hospital to hold vigil for Flora (see lower picture). The Carnage City P.D. was on hand to ensure no violence erupted.

This reporter spoke with several fans outside the hospital. "We just want Flora to know that we love her, and are praying for her recovery," said one teary-eyed woman. Another man added, "I think everyone is being hard on poor Ernest (editor's note: Ernest Wontellalie -- the DFG janitor who improperly secured the shelving unit that fell on Flora). No one ever uses those tether straps... it was just a freak accident." DFG enthusiast Javier Santamotzarello was on hand to lead in a special prayer vigil and candlelight service.

Dan Graves and Darryl Andrews have been unavailable for comment, although Mr. Andrews was spotted at a local bistro in the company of several foreign investors, reputedly closing an overseas licensing deal. Mr. Graves has avoided the media.

DFG Colourist is Hospitalized... Todd Abbot Keeps Vigil at her Bedside

By Cynthia Martin

Freelance Reporter

Tragic news greeted the comic book industry this morning as we learned of the hospitalization of DFG colourist, Flora Lovartalot. Ms. Lovartalot, who has been at DFG Comics for less than a year has taken the industry by storm with her bold style, appears to have been the victim of a freak accident at DFG corporate headquarters. Precise details of the accident are unclear at this hour, but an inside source at DFG corporate HQ has told this reporter that the tragic accident occured shortly after a late-night staff meeting. "Apparently," says the unidentified source, "Ms. Lovartalot left the meeting after receiving her latest assignment. She went to the inventory shelves to retrieve artwork for colouring and as she reached for the artwork, the whole shelf toppled onto her and she was crushed." DFG Comics has just moved into its new HQ and the shelf apparently contained hundreds of heavy boxes of artwork dating back to the early 1980's. "It was just awful," said Antiquda Recordafile, DFG's head researcher, "I heard a crash, came running out and all I could see was this shelf, piles of boxes, scattered comic book pages and poor Flora's arms and legs protruding from underneath the fallen shelving unit -- there was no screaming, all I could hear was poor Flora wimpering in pain." DFG co-publisher and Vice-President Darryl Andrews was reached for comment, "I'm certainly not commenting to the press on such vicious rumours of our corporate irresponsbility. Just get that microphone out of my face, NOW!" While DFG bosses weren't talking, I caught up with DFG legal counsel Sir Milton Goldfarbstein, QC, KG, LLB, PhD, who noted, "DFG can bear no legal responsiblility for Ms. Lovartalot's carelessness and colossal stupidity." Another source noted that due to the haphazard nature of the recent move, the new shelving had not been properly tethered to the wall. DFG janitor and maintenence manager, Ernest Wontellalie was questioned by this reporter about this apparent oversight, "Tethered? Tethered?" he said, "Does anybody actually pay attention to those IKEA instructions that say you have to tether a bookshelf to the wall? That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard of. They're bookshelves for crying out loud... People need to be careful, bookshelves fall over sometimes... sheesh." And what of poor Ms. Lovartalot's condition? Dr. Mortificus P. Dulytle commented that she is in critical condition at Carnage City General Hospital and in the ICU. He would not give any further information other than that DFG comic book legend Todd Abbot was keeping vigil by her bedside. This seems to confirm other reports that Ms. Lovartalot & Mr. Abbot have become romantically involved in recent days. Mr. Abbot was reached on his cellphone at the hospital, "It's just another example of the corporate irresponsiblity exercised by this friggin' company...Somebody's gotta bring those jackasses down before someone else is hurt... They hide behind that Goldfarbstein clown and his friggin LLB and pretend all is well in the friggin' DFG universe, well I can tell you, it's not all well, Flora's clinging to her life, here! DFG is cursed, man!" Mr. Abbot was obviously referring to the reputed "DFG Curse." The so-called "DFG Curse" as been dubbed such by observers who have noted the various calamities that have struck DFG staff members over the past year (Darryl Andrews was assaulted by thugs who broke into his villa earlier this year and looted his priceless art collection, Sir Milton Goldfarbstein was hospitalized after a mysterious illness, and Todd Abbot was suspected of having Kaposi's Sarcoma as well). We will keep you posted on Ms. Lovartalot's condition as information becomes available.

Halloweens of DFG's Past

Well, Halloween 2008 has come and gone, but we at DFG are ones who like ongoing celebrations and festivities. DFG has always tried to celebrate spirit of any given special day and here, from our extensive DFG archives, is one such example. Pictured are your ever popular DFG co-founders Dan & Darryl preparing for an evening of "trick-or-treating" back in the early 1990's! Always fans of the early horror film genre, the DFG co-founders masqueraded as two classic monsters, with Darryl as Dracula and Dan as the Frankenstein Monster. Rights for the Universal versions of the characters could not be obtained so they dressed the lesser-known but equally classic versions from the British Hammer films series. Pictured with them are two unidentified junior "trick-or-treaters."

Glow Kids Comic Strip Begins!

By Gus Gunn

Special to DFG ONLINE!

DFG has just released the artwork for its newest comic strip, The Glow Kids! Written and drawn by up and coming DFG superstar Leighton Graves. The quirky cast of characters, the children of members of the Glow Gang, include Red-Glow, Mini-DJ, Gooey, Mini, Curby, Mini-Marine Maiden and Onion Girl. The first strip introduces the characters and gives us a preview of their powers. Asked about future storylines, Leighton would only say, "I can't give away all the suprises...check in at the DFG site regularly to keep up with the Glow Kids!"

Kreskin Predicts Banner Year for DFG Comics

By Bob Barnes
Special to DFG ONLINE!

DFG Vice-President and Co-Publisher Darryl Andrews led a contingent of staff members from the DFG Peterborough branch office to a very special appearance of the world-renowned Amazing Kreskin. Kreskin, the author of several books and the star of a memorable TV programme, met the DFG executive and had this picture taken together. Kreskin, is known for his numerous accurate predictions about world events as well as reading the minds of audience participants as they concentrate on the subject in question.

Kreskin placed his predictions for DFG's upcoming year in an envelope that was signed and sealed by a member of the law firm Goldfarbstein and Associates. The envelope will be opened and the predictions read in Oct. 2009. What does the future hold for DFG and will Kreskin's predictions come true? Only time will tell. The only thing Mr. Kreskin would say was, "2009 will be a banner year for DFG Comics!"

Unexpected Surprise in Preview Solicitation

Special to DFG Online

By Bob Barnes

A long-absent hero is returning, which heralds a possible resolution to the legendary Spy '96 run. "Nightmare" creator, Darryl Andrews was 'mum' on the subject, but the unveiling of the preview solicitation [photo inset] sparked an avalanche of questions. What will the return of this enigmatic hero character mean to the DFG Universe?? Stay tuned!!

Christmas Special is on the Way!

Advance Solicitation from DFG Corporate Head Office
for Retro-Spy #3 - December 2008 Issue

Fans will be delighted to learn that the annual D.F.G. Christmas issue is in the works. This year, the Christmas special will be featured in Retro-Spy #3. Retro-Spy is the title that features untold tales from the Golden-Age of DFG (c. 1980's). This year's story is entitled: "The Invincibles Save Christmas!"

Synopsis: What happens when the Jester, the Radiation Master and the Blue Menace descend on the North Pole on Christmas Eve to assualt and disable Santa Claus, thus destroying Christmas for every good little boy and girl? Enter those merry-making friends of the downtrodden everywhere, THE INVINCIBLES. Join the original Invincibles team of the Spymaster, Captain Nepto, Redman, Nova, the Flea and Cyclone & Tornado, as they race against the clock to save the most sacred of holidays!

Story and Art by Dan Graves. Release date: Dec. 2008.

DFG is "On The Move!"

By Gus Gunn

Special to DFG ONLINE

Fans have been asking why DFG has been slow releasing several of its promised Fall books and the answer came in a press release today from DFG President and Co-Publisher, Dan Graves. "We've kept this fairly quiet up to this point but DFG is moving into a new corporate HQ on Oct. 6, 2008 and this has delayed some of our Fall publications." Delayed books include the long-anticipated Spy Classics Annual #1: The Origins Issue, Captain Nepto Prime July & August issues, and Spy Classics #4. Mr. Graves noted, however, that Spy Comics Presents...#5 is still on track for a Winter 2008 release, as is the Retro-Spy Christmas Special. "We are optimistic that the late releases can be fit in before the end of the year," added Darryl Andrews, Vice President and Co-Publisher, "In fact we have our staff working through the night to bring these projects to completion. However, you must understand that a move of this magnitude means that all hands have been on deck to relocate the DFG offices."

DFG Comics, with its creative, marketing, production and merchandising divisions now has a staff of over 200 people and has apparently outgrown its previous modest offices. The new offices are quite attractive and will be situated to better serve the needs of the growing company. When questioned if the US stock market crisis has affected the company, Mr. Andrews noted, "Of course not... we are a private company owned completely by Mr. Graves and myself. DFG is secure and safe in these turbulent and economic times. Fans may rest assured that DFG will be around for many years to come!"

Is Repovski Returning to DFG?

By Gus Gunn

(At the Toronto Fan Expo)

Special to DFG ONLINE!

Is Peter Repovski returning to DFG? "That's what it looks like," said DFG enthusiast Javier Santamotzarello who snapped this photo of the superstar inker shaking hands with DFG president and co-publisher Dan Graves, at Repovski's booth at the Toronto Fan Expo.

"Let's just say that Pete and I go back a long way, and it was just nice to see an old friend again... and one who is doing so well in the industry, at that," commented Mr. Graves. But when pressed about Repovski's possible return to DFG, Mr. Graves added, "I really can't comment on that at this time. It is true that Pete has some of my pencilled artwork which he is intending to ink for a future issue of Spy Comics, but I really can't talk about other future plans between DFG and Repovski. Certainly no deall has been signed at present and Pete is very busy working on other projects, presently. My hope is that he will have something for us in the near future. I promise that I will keep you updated with future developments."

Peter Repovski, the creator of Nitro: The Man with the TNT Punch contributed widely to DFG Comics in the mid-1980's with his own Nitro title as well as several other projects. He is widely known as the "Godzilla of the Comics Industry," because of his gigantic status amongst professionals. Mr. Graves and Mr. Repovski were present at the show with DFG Vice President and Co-Publisher Darryl Andrews, signing copies of the recently released Spy Classics #3, an previously unpublished collaboration from 1996.

When asked about Dan's interpretation of Nitro in the recent Spy Comics Presents title, Mr. Repovski simply replied, "LOL."

DFG Toys Division Debuts Action Figures

Special to DFG Online
By Gus Gunn

DFG Toys is excited to show its brand new toy line-up set to debut in time for Xmas 2008. Measuring 24 inches tall with 18-24 points of fully poseable ball-jointed and interchangeable action figure pieces, the toy line-up will include DFG characters like The Flea, Redman and Nepto. Theme packs and vehicles that kids can use to create their DFG adventures will also be available.

DFG Toys will be located at the annual Carnage City Toy Fair at the Martha Smithers Memorial Convention Center booth #1981. The Toy Fair is a trade show for industry trade only. Members of the Press, specialty market buyers and mass-market buyers are urged to contact DFG Toys at DFG Headquarters for more information. Pictured is the fully sculpted action figure of The Spy-Master by Leighton Graves (sculptor), and DFG President Dan Graves.

Director of Philanthropy Hired!

Press Release

DFG Comics President and Co-Publisher Dan Graves announced earlier today that after an extensive search, the position of Director of Philanthropy for DFG Comics has been filled. DFG comics is pleased to announce to our readership that Sir Jephtha P. Ecclesiasticus has been appointed to fill this important position. Sir Jephtha comes to DFG with a wealth of experience as both a fund raiser and "social butterfly."

After completing several degrees in a variety of erudite subject areas, he went on to post-graduate work in philanthropy at the prestigious Institute for Advanced Wealth and Supercilliousness in the world-renowned economics department at Carnage City University. Sir Jephtha has worked for a number of well-known charities and NGO's including the National Organisation for Non-employed Organists (NONO), the International Relief Agency for Tasmanian Existentialists (IRATE), and has done freelance work for several professional cartoonist guilds including the Canadian Resource Association of Panelologists (CRAP). "We are extremely pleased that Sir Jephtha will bring this wealth of experience to DFG," said Mr. Graves. Sir Jephtha issued the following remarks to the press gallery at the news conference. "With the increased number emails from Kenya, Uganda, and other African nations arriving at the DFG offices requesting assistance, as well as the several hundred phone calls per day, such as request to sponsor kids for the police officers and firefighters circuses, Value Village and Goodwill charity clothing pick-ups, and requests for other funds, DFG felt that they needed someone to handle the quantity of requests. I am obviously the right person, given my extensive experience and expertise."

Sir Jephtha was born in England, but has travelled the world extensively. He was knighted in 1935 for his extensive charity work during the Great Depression. He is single, has no children, but keeps a pet Iguana.

--30--

Publisher Dan Graves attends Toronto Fan Expo 2008

Special to DFG Online

By Bob Barnes

Thousands of people swarmed the convention hall hoping to meet their favourite comicbook artists and creators. On hand was DFG Publisher Dan Graves, who worked the crowd with ease and answered fan questions about character favourites such as Red-Man & the Flea. "It's always great meeting the fans and answering their questions", said Dan. "I look forward to attending more conventions in the future." Pictured is DFG Publisher Dan Graves with writer Peter David [ Spiderman movie adaptations, Hulk, more) giving a critique to a young artist.

Spy Classics #4 - Sneak Peek!

Early Photo Features DFG Creators and Creator of the SPM Heroes!

STOP THE PRESS -- ANTIQUE PHOTO OF DFG CREATORS FOUND IN DFG ARCHIVES!

By Bob Barnes, Special to DFG ONLINE!

A previously unknown photo, dated c. 1977, was has been found in the DFG Archives. DFG staff researcher, Antiquda Recordafile, discovered the photo earlier this week. "It's a truly remarkable find," said Ms. Recordafile, "as it features DFG superstars and one fan from the very earlier years of DFG." Depicted in the photo, left to right, are DFG Co-founder (and creator of Captain Nepto), Darryl Andrews; next is Craig Hodgson (a DFG fan from the very beginning); Simon McClenaghan, creator of the SPM Heroes (Electrolight, the Black Shadow, Formation Man, SuperFly, Speed Burner, and the Bow); and DFG Co-Founder (and creator of the Spymaster), Dan Graves. Mr. Graves' head his partially cut-off because it is believed he was holding up the camera to take the picture. "I believe that the photo was taken at an early DFG Staff lunch, held annually on the occasion of Mr. Andrews' birthday," added Ms. Recordafile, "I think that Craig Hodgson had won a contest to have lunch with the DFG superstars depicted here and that explains his presence at an otherwise closed event." When DFG President and Co-Founder Dan Graves was reached for comment, he stated, "Ah yes, I have fond memories of those lunches, and of course, of the people. These were great days for the industry... We were so young and optimistic. It was before the cynicism of the eighties and the narcissism of the nineties. These were good times and these were certainly good people. I'm glad we all had the chance to work together at the very beginning of DFG!"

August Villain

Our August Villain is Insanity.

Insanity was introduced in the final issue (#8) of the original Spy Comics series, way back in 1985. Insanity was actually a wealthy high society heir named Sherrinford P. Worthington IV. Worthington had been committed to the Carnage City Asylum for mental health issues. He soon began to manifest strange abilities such as the ability to induce vertigo when others gazed upon his stare. He could also put his victims into a temporary state of insanity. In Spy Comics #8, he escaped from the asylum and began to wreak havoc in Carnage City. Chief Augustus Smith called upon The Spymaster to help track him down, but The Spymaster fell victim to Isanity's deranged touch.

Sadly, the story was never completed, as the series was rebooted and relaunched later that year. Many old threads were never picked up... the Insanity story is one of those. Will Insanity make a return to the DFG Universe anytime soon? Only the DFG "brass" knows for sure, and they're keeping things under their hats for now. Be sure to follow DFG ONLINE! newsposts for future developments and the possible return of Insanity!

Mark Andrews Concept Sketch for "lost" Spy 96 Annual Comes to Light!!!

By Bob Barnes
Special to DFG ONLINE
With all the buzz surrounding the return of superstar artist Mark Andrews to DFG Comics, a previously unknown concept sketch for the never-completed Spy '96 Annual has come to light. The sketch features a montage of scenes from the unpublished annual. When reached for comment Mark Andrews noted, "Wow, I'd completely forgotten about that sketch. That certainly is a sterling example of my Dali-esque surreal phase." Asked if he had any plans to complete the issue, he noted, "Well, as I understand it, Frank Daniels is collating the whole damned mess and trying to make something out of it. It was really quite good work, but I did it somewhat piecemeal and there are gaps." According to DFG publicist, Selina Silvurtungdevul, the annual is scheduled to finally be released later this year, but DFG production manager (and writer) Frank Daniels is finding the material quite challenging, "Frank is basically taking the thing panel by panel and creating a prose script that will accompany it so that it has much the feel of a pulp magazine. Another problem is that some of the panels are only pencilled, some are inked, while others are completely pencilled, inked and coloured. Frank hopes to have things tied up on this by Christmas." DFG fans are anxiously awaiting Mark Andrews return to DFG Comics!

DFG President Comments on Todd Abbot Resignation

Press Release
DFG Corporate Head Office
Carnage City
August 7th, 2008

From the Desk of the President and Co-Publisher
Dear Fans:
Earlier this week, Mr. Todd Abbot announced on his website that his "25 year exclusive contract" with DFG Comics had expired and that he intended to pursue work with other publishers. I wish to inform the DFG readership that Mr. Abbot has never had an "exclusive contract" with DFG Comics, much less an exclusive contract for 25 years. Mr. Abbot has done much work for DFG over this time frame and we at DFG consider him part of the DFG family. There is also no truth to the rumour that I was not pleased with Mr. Abbot's work on Captain Nepto Prime and that is why I removed him from the title. Nepto creator Darryl Andrews wanted to take the book in a new direction so I immediately reassigned him to some work on the Spy Classics Annual (origins issues), in which he was allowed to complete his long-delayed Cyclone & Tornado origin story. In addition, I assigned him the origin of the Warrior, but he has yet to turn it in.

To summarize, Mr. Abbot has always been welcome to work with other publishers and I continue to welcome any contributions that he might make to the DFG stable of titles. We are grateful for his past contributions and wish him well in his future endeavours.

Sincerely,
Dan Graves
President and Co-Publisher

Captain Nepto picture courtesy of Todd Abbot. Colouring by Flora Lovartalot. Scan by Oscar Foodlecollins.

Always Surprises at DFG!!

By Bob Barnes
Special to DFG Online

With so much attention being given to the 2009-2010 schedule, reporters forgot to ask company President Dan Graves about news on any upcoming project that might already be in the works. "I knew it would knock everybody on their ass, so I kept it quiet", was Mr. Graves' only response to the new Captain Nepto comic-strip that seemed to appear magically and without notice Online today. To view the new strip, click here.

Spy Comics Presents 2009-2010 Lineup Revealed!

By Bob Barnes
Special to DFG ONLINE!

At a press conference at DFG Corporate HQ late last evening DFG Co-Publishers Dan Graves and Darryl Andrews released the 2009/2010 lineup for Spy Comics Presents. "With the "Battle of the Invincibles" storyline wrapping up in Issue 5, the Winter 2008 issue, we felt it was time to unveil the next story arc," commented Mr. Andrews, "Dan has been working very hard plotting the next five issues and has begun breakdowns on #6 already." An exciting development was the release of the cover for #6 which was drawn by Darryl Andrews and coloured by Flora Lovaratlot. "I'm very pleased with Darryl's cover," said a smiling Mr. Graves, "It really catches the flavour of the issue quite nicely. While fans have voted Captain Nepto Prime their favourite series to date, it seems like everyone wants a crack at Spy Comics Presents, our flagship title." Mr. Graves was of course refering not only to Darryl's cover but also to Mark Andrews' recently released cover for an upcoming issue. We asked Mr. Graves about Mark's issue and when it would be appearing, "Well, Frank Daniels, our production manager, is working very closely with Mr. (Mark) Andrews to determine when he will have the issue ready. We can slip it in any time because it appears that the story will be self-contained. At this point, though, we're scheduling its release after the upcoming story arc is completed, probably as issue #11)." Darryl Andrews added that he was quite pleased that his brother had agreed to put pencil to paper and return to DFG. When asked about the future story arc, Mr. Graves revealed the following, "Well, the upcoming arc is all about the fall-out from the first arc. I realized that while the Invincibles story arc was complete, there were a lot of loose ends and new directions. I really want to explore what the DFG universe looks like in a post-Nepto, post-Spymaster age. To this end I came up with the idea that Spy Comics Presents... should, at least for the next arc, be a team-up book that showcases our many under-utilised characters. The arc will deal with what the DFG universe looks like in a world where the heroes are trying to work out a new morality after the fall-out of the Julius/Nepto battle and a world in which the politicians and public figures have lost faith in their heroes." The press conference concluded with the following announcements about upcoming issues of Spy Comics Presents...

Spy Comics Presents... 2009/2010 lineup (Subject to change).

Spy Comics Presents… The Grim Avenger and the Flea #6 (Spring 2009)
In the wake of Prime Minister Jangle’s new anti-vigilante laws, Chief Smith takes over the leadership of the reconstituted Invincibles team and establishes them in their new headquarters. At the same time the Grim Avenger and the Flea attempt to stop the rampaging maniac Big Jon who is wreaking havoc on downtown Carnage City.

Spy Comics Presents…Yugoslav-man and Tito-lad #7 (Summer 2009)
When Holden and Bates are hunted for aiding and abetting the outlawed costumed heroes, there is only one thing they can do to hide from the police… adopt costumed identities of their own!

Spy Comics Presents … The SPM Heroes #8 (Fall 2009 Issue).
The SPM Heroes Back in Action? Featuring Electrolight, the Bow, the Black Shadow and Formation Man. When the rest of the Invincibles go on a mission to break The Grim Avenger, the Flea and William Holden out of the Carnage City Stockade, a group of second-string heroes, known as the SPM heroes (Super Powered Men) are left on monitor duty only to find themselves challenged by the notorious Carnage City Criminal Consortium (the C4 Group!).

Spy Comics Presents … Chief Smith, The Agent, and the All-New Spymaster #9 (Winter 2009 Issue)
(vs. Chief McMullen & the Carnage City Police force.)
With all of the Invincibles’ heavy hitters locked in the Carnage City Stockade, it’s up to Chief Smith, the Agent and the All-new Spymaster to break them out… with the help of the SPM heroes and the newest addition to the team – Spydog!

Spy Comics Presents … The End of the Invincibles? #10 (Spring 2010 Issue)

Who will save the Invincibles when the entire team finds itself locked away in the Carnage City Stockade?

Spy Comics Presents ... Nepto #11 (Summer 2010 Issue)

The Mark Andrews Issue!

Kendall [Mark] Andrews Returns to DFG!!!

Stay tuned for more on this HUGE EVENT folks!!!

August Hero(ine) ~ NOVA

Nova is our August hero. Nova was created in the early 1980's by Dan Graves in order to introduce a female superheroine into the DFG lineup. "It really was a male dominated company in those days," recalled the DFG Publisher and Founder, "Nova was to be introduced in the first never-published Spy Comics annual in 1983 or 84. That annual never came together, although she did appear in her civilian identity in another unpublished story, which was to follow the annual." According to Mr. Graves she was to have assumed the civilian identity of Kim Kane and begun work as secretary to Carnage City Gazette editor-in-chief, J.S. Frederickson, who was also Julius Smithers' boss. "Dan was getting a little ahead of himself in those days," recalled co-publisher Darryl Andrews, "he was great at drawing advance covers and cover concepts, but a bit slow on doing interior stories and art. As a result Nova appeared on several covers, but never on any inside stories. She was also to appear in the unpublished Invincibles mini-series of 1983." When asked about Nova, DFG enthusiast Javier Santamotzarello commented, "She really was one of the characters always lurking in the background of the golden-age of DFG but never really making it to the front page, like Nepto, Spymaster and Redman. I have several early sketches that I picked up at conventions. Perhaps my most prized possession is the unpublished cover for the original Spy Comics #13 which was to feature the marriage of Spymaster and Nova." Dan Graves remembered this cover, "Yes, it was all a bit absurd... for some reason I thought that Nova would be a good love interest for the Spymaster. I can't recall my reasoning anymore. That cover (which featured the Spymaster in top hat and tails marrying a wedding-dress clad Nova) was just absurd." Mr. Graves revisited that story in Retro-Spy #2, last year, which featured the first appearance of Nova since the early 1980's. In that story it was revealed that she was an alien from another dimension who was brought back to earth by the Invincibles and joined their team. Spy Comics Presents #1 (2006) revealed that she had since returned to her own dimension and homeworld. "She didn't make it into either the 1985 or the 1996 relaunch," said Darryl Andrews, "and so I was absolutely flabergasted when Dan brought her back for the Retro-Spy issue, and even more surprised to see her appearances in recent issues of Spy Comics Presents!" Regardless of her inauspicious early days, it looks like our favourite heroine from another dimension, who still has a crush on Julius Smithers, is back to stay. Watch for future appearances in upcoming DFG Comics titles!
Nova picture by Darryl Andrews scan courtesy of Oscar Foodlecollins

Pencilled Pages of Spy Comics Presents #5 Leaked!

Special to DFG ONLINE!

By Bob Barnes

Pencilled artwork by Dan Graves for pages 1 & 2 of Spy Comics Presents The Invincibles #5 has been leaked to the press! The images were posted earlier today by DFG webmaster Oscar Foodlecollins after being handed to him by an unnamed source. The source is likely DFG janitor Ernest Wontellalie, who has been known to leak material in the past and has been disciplined for such indescretions. DFG enthusiast Javier Santamotzarello commented on the leaked pages: "It looks like Dan Graves is continuing the theme from issue four in which the inner psychologies of Julius and Nepto are explored in parallel while the main story unfolds." Spy Comics Presents the Invincibles #5 is to be the conclusion of the current story arc, so the fact that pages have been leaked is significant as DFG has been trying strenuously to keep the details of this issue under wraps. Neither of Dan Graves nor Darryl Andrews, DFG's co-publishers, could be reached for comment.

Spy Comics Presents ... The Invincibles #4 - Now Online!

DFG Comics is pleased to announce that Spy Comics Presents ... The Invincibles #4 (Fall 2008 issue) is now online. The issue features Part IV of "Battle of the Invincibles" with story and art by Dan Graves and colours by Flora Lovartalot. This is the penultimate chapter of the current story arc which features the build up to the final battle between Sir Julius Smithers and his Invincibles team and Captain Nepto and his renegade Invincibles. Don't miss it! The issue can be view by clicking here.

Canadian Comic Insider Interviews Darryl Andrews - Part III

By Millicent Mortificus
Special to DFG ONLINE!

CCI: Mr. Andrews, before we conclude our interview, I would like to do a word association with you. Are you ready?
DTA: Fire away!!

CCI: Captain Nepto.
DTA: I'm going to KILL him THIS time, he's DEAD!!

CCI: "Trident" vs. "CN" isignias.
DTA: ..always fighting for a space on Nepto's chest. I like the Trident more but have a soft spot for the "CN". A little known fact is, that DFG Icon Peter Repovski suggested I use the Trident.

CCI: 15 page annual.
DTA: The Ultimate test for any DFG staffer.

CCI: Brian Anderson
DTA: ...another idea that long term implications weren't considered.

CCI: Bob Barnes
DTA: The Zombie should have killed that dude a long time ago.

CCI: The Crusher
DTA: I don't know where I was influenced back in 1984 to include a drug pusher in the series. I do have an update, however on the Crusher . Crusher meets Bus; Bus wins. Crusher is re-animated by an evil scientist. Crusher is half cyborg. Crusher returns next year...or earlier!

CCI: Bob Kane
DTA: If Dan Graves were Bob Kane; then he'd be doing this all by himself! Luckily, our President isn't a selfish, egotistical prick.

CCI: The Agent
DTA: The only DFG character to be a combined effort of both Dan & I. Strange he hasn't developed yet.

CCI: Todd Abbot
DTA: My right hand man, when it comes to early Nepto.

CCI: DFG's Greatest Heroes
DTA: A title that should be restored.

CCI: Retro-Spy
DTA: Hands down, the best thing I did in '96.

CCI: The Alligator
DTA: I love the Alligator, but for obvious reasons, choose to leave him in the past.

CCI: Murdoch
DTA: When Dan saddled me with this new addition to the orgin I cringed. I'll get my revenge in Captain Nepto Prime August!

CCI: Cyclone & Tornado
DTA: The Wind Brothers...just might make a huge impact in 2009!

CCI: The Spymaster
DTA: The foundation that all that is DFG is built upon.

CCI: The Jester
DTA: ..will be the most saddened by the death of Captain Nepto.

CCI: Mark Andrews
DTA: My brother is an incredible artist and a huge asset to the DFG team. His return would benefit the company in, many as of yet seen ways.

CCI: Nitro
DTA: Pete's developed a great hero and even more interesting enemies. I loved the 'spin' Dan added to the character in the Invincibles series. I hope it inspires Pete to revisit his character and DFG.

CCI: Frank Daniels
DTA: Other then the "DFG answer man stuff,..does this guy even have a job at DFG?

CCI: DFG in the next ten years.
DTA: A large Online comic community with fans and artists Nationwide.

CCI: Any concluding remarks?
DTA: When do I get paid for this interview?

CCI: Thank you very much for your participation, sir, and again, congratulations on being inducted in the hall of fame! This concludes our interview with DFG Co-Publisher and Vice President Darryl Andrews.

Canadian Comic Insider Interviews Darryl Andrews - Part II

By Millicent Mortificus
Special to DFG ONLINE

CCI: Continuing our interview, I would like to ask you about Captain Nepto's changing outfits. I'm trying to catalogue them all, but I've lost count. It seems to have started with the wig, and then there was the closet full of costumes in Spy '96 #1. I've never known a hero to have so many looks? And any chance for a special Captain Nepto fashion showcase issue?
DTA: Nepto has always been searching for "who he is". I suppose the ever-changing wardrobe is a sympton of that. Captain Nepto Prime August will address this and no to the silly question.

CCI: Tell me about Captain Nepto's "powers."
DTA: I'll explain this in two parts. Nepto has temporary "super-powers" that he obtains, mostly by accident, from the scientist Zed. "Captain Nepto Prime" July is a perfect example of this [Nepto is zapped by some strange instrument in Zed's lab and can fly]. This was absent from the original series as Zed was working behind the scenes. Please read past and upcoming issues in the Retro-Spy series to learn the whole history. The second part of this answer is that Captain Nepto possesses no "powers", super or otherwise.

CCI: What led to the decision to end the 1981-1984 series and start again by consolidating both Spymaster & Nepto into Spy Comics vol. 2, #1, in 1985?
DTA: By 1985, both Dan's and my stories and art had developed to the point that the earliest issues looked like "chicken-scratch". I was working the 'new look' into the original series, when Dan decided to 'submarine' his entire first series and start new. He suggested we publish under one title so the issue would be more substantial [meaning maybe 10 pages instead of 5]. The second aspect of this was, we were actively selling the comics at this time and two heroes in one book served to encourage and actually spike sales. Spy-Comics vol.2, #3, for example, had three print runs and actually made us a tidy profit at the time.

CCI: Why do you seem to want to kill Captain Nepto?
DTA: I do want to 'kill' Nepto. I've already expanded on this in part one of the interview, but I will say that as an older person I find it difficult to accept the Nepto Legacy. He absolutely makes no sense to me. I'm an orderly person now....and Nepto does not make sense. It reaches far back to the original series when I was writing stories on a panel to panel basis not knowing or having any sort of conclusion. That's why we have the earlier asked, "super-powers' question. Let me explain it in simple, real salt of the Earth language. The name..., Captain Nepto came about because there was an advertisement for Captain Crunch cereal that I was able to trace for the cover of Captain Nepto #1. Nepto was supposed to be Neptune, but I couldn't remember how to spell Neptune at the time..plus I had run out of space on the cover[!]. I didn't know what he was even going to look like until page 2. With that kind of poor planning, is it any question why I want to kill this character?
Okay, so I do love the character now, but you still see why I have to "kill" him, right?

CCI: Okay, amongst Cap's enemies, who is a) your favourite, b)the most dangerous, c)the most overused, d)the most underused, and e)the biggest mistake (i.e., you would not invent him the second time around)?
DTA: My favourite is Killer Shark. Cool name, cool costume and first enemy created. The most dangerous would be the Mummy. I mean, how do you stop the un-dead? The most overused on first appearance would be the Jester, but when you examine those appearances, every one has a vital place in the canon. The guy just won't go away; even our holiday Retro-Spy Christmas Special marks an appearance with the Jester. If the appearances were lame and unmemorable, then fine I'd say him, but I can't, so I won't. Therefore no enemy, in my opinion has been overused. The most underused is easier. I'd say, the Sea-Serpent. Look, he makes a big comeback in the important Prime series, but what will anybody remember about the June issue....the super scientific Nepto Sub.
They are 'all my children', I love them all, so I would not call one a mistake.

CCI: You have also created several other heroes... I believe that the Warrior, the Winged Avenger, the Savage Beast, and Nightmare were all your creations. You officially created Cyclone & Tornado, although Todd Abbot claims that it was actually him. I guess what I'm asking is two-fold: first, to your mind, what makes a hero? And secondly, why do some creations work and others do not?
DTA: What is it that makes someone a hero? Is it great bravery? Superior intellect? A noble heart? Maybe A hero has all these things, But what makes him a hero Is more than that. It's using his fortune and destiny, To help those whom fate has not smiled on so kindly. It's his compassion and reverence, for the quality of life that all people deserve. It's knowing that but for his circumstances, He is no better or worse than those he seeks to help. Heroes are all around us in everyday life. They do what must be done.... Even if their deeds go unnoticed, And their praises go unsung. For true heroism is selfless and does not seek recognition. But we have heard its name and know its face when we see it. As for your second part of that question...., I have no idea.

CCI: Aside from Nepto, which other hero that you created is your favourite?
DTA: One doesn't really have a warm spot for me over the next. Because of limited development to date; I really don't have much invested in those characters. I will say, that my next favourite hero is The Spy-Master. I've always thought Dan came up with a great character and that's why early in the original series I started using Spy-Master in a guest role. I'm sure that Prof. Martin R. Schoedel, the official DFG historian, would be able to tell you, that I was responsible for the Spy-Master's first signs of physicality in the series as Dan was focusing on greater mental challenges for his character to be more in line with his age and orgin. I was overly excited and wanted the Spy-Master to "kick-butt" and in hindsight shouldn't have opened up that element. Even as recent as the year 2000, I was toying with the idea of doing a DFG comic strip featuring a rough n' tumble Spy-Master, showing no signs of crime fighting at an advanced age. I think honestly, I was only going to do it to stir Dan's ownership of the character into possibly making a return to the books as this was a dormant period for us. Still, the character has endured and I'm only too happy to have some small measure of influence on it.

CCI: You introduced a couple of new storylines in Spy '96 that never wrapped up, as the second story arc of the series was never finished. Can we expect to see some resolution here? And if so what are your plans for Divine, Nightmare, and The Executioner?
DTA: Spy '96 never wrapped up since by then I was working completely without support. The DFG regulars were all busy with other projects [-ie meaning life] and I couldn't sustain it myself. I did have big plans for those characters. Presently, I have no plans for those characters.

CCI: If DFG could launch one new title of your absolute choosing, what would it be?
DTA: I'm very pleased with the number of titles and the variety of titles we have on our slate. Each title is unique and exists to serve all our characters in whatever part of their development well. if I had to add one title it would be a solo book to focus on the development of Red-man. I think he has enough substance to warrant his own series. But, I've thought that for some time. Back in 1996, when I served as President of DFG; he was the character from the original series I reintroduced and immediately make an impact with. Dan was at a sticking point with Spy-Comics and well,...real life was getting in the way of his continuing with the comics, but I thought maybe Red-man would offer him some temporary relief and he could do a "one-off" just to end his draught. It didn't happen in 1996, but obviously I was correct about "setting the itch" as Dan responded years later with the continuation of the Retro-Spy storyline. I really think by Dan completing that story arc, it was a necessary component to revitalizing the entire company.

CCI: What would be the ideal DFG merchandising product?
DTA: A super scientific Nepto Sub!

CCI: What has been your favourite day at DFG?
DTA: I remember a BBQ. No drawing or scripting, just Dan, I and family. We'd talk about life, we'd talk about the characters in our comics. It was 'all' there...and juicy burgers.

End of Part II

Captain Nepto JUNIOR?!?!?! Captain Nepto Prime August Sneak Peak

By Bob Barnes

"What the devil is Darryl Andrews up to?" asked a furious Todd Abbot this morning as he stormed into DFG Corporate Head Office with a petition signed by at least 4 people demanding that Darryl Andrews not go ahead with the direction-change planned for Captain Nepto Prime August Issue. "Todd doesn't run DFG," said Dan Graves, DFG's President and Co-Publisher. "Darryl Andrews has been my business partner for 27 years and whatever Darryl does with Nepto is fine with me. I won't be bullied by some second-rate ghost artist who thinks he has some claim on the Captain Nepto mythos." Mr. Graves' comment was uncharacteristically antagonistic. "Well Todd's being antagonistic," said Mr. Graves, "and I won't be dictated to about the direction of one of my flagship titles." Earlier today Mr. Abbot leaked the picture, below, which depicts a scene from Captain Nepto Prime August in which Cap appears to be introducing a junior sidekick. "It's not what it seems," said Mr. Andrews, "In fact, the whole issue is full of surprises!" Asked about Mr. Abbot's outburst of protest, Mr. Andrews commented, "Todd's just frustrated because he's not a visionary. But rest assured, we have very special plans for Todd in the DFG universe. Look for his new project to be announced soon. I'm just hoping this whole thing cools off so that we can move forward. It's really getting out of control." Look for more updates as they become available.

Rare Darryl Andrews Convention Art Donated to Canadian Museum of Cartoon Arts

By Bob Barnes

Special to DFG ONLINE



A rare piece of Darryl Andrews convention artwork has surfaced. The piece, entitled, "Decision 2000 - To Begin Again?" was drawn at the 2000 Carnage City Comicon by the Captain Nepto creator for a fan who wished to remain anonymous. Reached for comment, Mr. Andrews said, "It was drawn during one of DFG's dormant periods. Dan and I were considering a relaunch but other areas in our lives were quite full and it never happened." Prof. Martin R. Schoedel, the official DFG historian who holds several graduate degrees, including two in panelology, commented on the work's significance, "The work is significant for several reasons. First, Nepto is drawn with a full mask, but no wig evoking his early, but not earliest golden-age appearance. Yet, he is also sporting his new capeless look, from the third series, and with the signature trident isignia which was prominent in the second series. It seems that Mr. Andrews was trying to evoke a sense of old and new in a profound way and was obviously toying with some aspect of nostalgia and a vision of looking forward. It might even suggest an early wrangling with the concepts that we are now seeing fully developed in the new Captain Nepto Prime series! Secondly, the pictures on the table are of classic Nepto villains, the Jester, Blaster, Mummy, Alligator, and possible the Unknown Strangler (or maybe Death). What is important to note in this is that Andrews was considering returning to the one shot Nepto vs. villains stories, again of the earlier years... the kinds of stories that were told only sparingly during the Spy '96 series. Finally, it is significant because it a mixed media piece -- a mixture of pencil only and pen and ink... very rare in the corpus of Andrews convention art." Once this reporter woke up after that ponderous interview, he consulted renowned DFG collector Javier Santamotzarello on the works value. "I would suggest that at today's market, if the work were to sell at auction, I would expect nothing less than at least $15,000, given the work's significance!" However, it is unlikely that the work will be sold, as the anonymous collector has donated it for display in the permanent DFG exibit at the Canadian Museum of Cartoon Art.

Canadian Comics Insider Interview with Dan Graves concludes

Part III - by Millicent Mortificus, special to DFG ONLINE

CCI: For fun, I thought we'd finish this interview by trying a little character word association. Ready?
DFG: Absolutely... fire away!

CCI: The Spy-Master...
DFG: Old guy in a mask who never had the body to wear spandex so he just put a mask and cape on over his business suit. Ooops, that's more than one word. Did I mention he loves to smoke a pipe?

CCI: Redman...
DFG: Commie.

CCI: The Flea...
DFG: Dogman.

CCI: The Grim Avenger...
DFG: Purple?!?!!

CCI: Nova...
DFG: Wedding bells.

CCI: Captain Nepto...
DFG: Super-scientific Nepto Sub.

CCI: "Boss" Doyle...
DFG: Smokes so much that nobody can see his face through the cigar smoke.

CCI: Nitro...
DFG: Superb.

CCI: The Blue Menace...
DFG: Armchair criminal.

CCI: Todd Abbot...
DFG: No comment.

CCI: DFG Comics in ten years...
DFG: Julius Smithers in a wheelchair at happydale home for retired heroes.

CCI: Thank you very much for your time. I hope we can do this again soon. Are there any final words or thoughts you'd like to express to your readership at this time?
DFG: Of course, I want to thank all of our faithful DFG readers of the last 27 years for your ongoing support. I hope you stay with us for the next 27.

July Hero - The Agent

Our July Hero is The Agent. The Agent has had long history as a character that goes back to the early days of DFG. In issue 5 of the 1981 Spy Comics series, The Agent made his first appearance along with his Legion of Justice. This legion consisted of Julius Smithers (the Spymaster in his civilian identity), Chief Smith, Sgt John Smith (the Chief's younger brother), J.S. Frederickson (Publisher of the Carnage City Gazette, and Julius Smithers' boss) and a stool-pigeon named Jack. The Agent was a sort of illusionist who could appear and disappear into thin air. This was the fate of the series, too, as it vanished into obscurity by the mid-1980's. A new series, with an all-new Agent was planned in the late 1980's (see art, above) but never got off the ground. It was to be written by Dan Graves & Darryl Andrews, pencilled by Graves, Inked by Andrews and coloured by DFG wannabe colourist Arthur Kullerblind. Unfortunately, Mr. Kullerblind vanished, never to be seen again, shortly after he turned in the above artwork. This led to the rumour that a curse was associated with the character. These rumours proved to be unfounded though, as the Agent finally saw the light of day in Spy 96 #2. He played a prominent role in that series and continues to be a crucial member of The Invincibles team currently appearing in Spy Comics Presents. His origin has not been told, and his identity remains unknown. Watch the upcoming Spy Classics Annual: The Origins Issue for the mysteries surround The Agent to be unveiled at last!

Canadian Comic Insider Interview with DFG Co-publisher, Darryl Andrews

By Millicent Mortificus:

Darryl Andrews is widely known as the creator of Captain Nepto, "Canada's Favourite Adventure Strip Character Since 1981." However, he is also one of the guiding lights of DFG Comics, having been part of its life since its inception. Mr. Andrews granted us this rare interview over martinis just moments before the gala dinner and ball at the recent Iqualuit Comicon, in which he was inducted into the Nunavut Comic Book Hall of Fame.

CCI: Mr. Andrews it is pleasure to have this opportunity to discuss your career in the comic industry. How does it feel to be receiving this prestigious award?

DTA: I'm grateful for the award, but typically awards are reserved for the end of careers. I've got lot's of new found energy and stories to tell. I feel more creative then I did even back in the 1980's when DFG was at it's strongest!

CCI: You were in on the ground floor of DFG... Could you describe those early days.

DTA: I remember reading Dan's first comic [Spy #1] when I visited from Newmarket and was so jealous. He was excited about getting to work on #2 and I told him to go ahead; that I would work on a comic on my own so that we would each have a comic-book. Side by side that day we completed a few pages of what is now Spy-Comics #2 and Captain Nepto #1!!

CCI: When you created Captain Nepto it was originally under the DTA imprint. Can you describe how DTA came under the DFG banner?

DTA: Since we were working side by side on the comics and enjoying sharing with each other our creations; we wanted to advertise each other's comic in our own comic. Being extremely intelligent eleven year olds, we realized that this was considered a no-no in the comic business or any other business for this matter so we solved the problem the best way we knew how...we decided to publish under one banner. The decision to use DFG was quick as I simply felt that Dan was the pioneer and deserved the acknowledgement. In a serious note, working together under one banner has strengthened our friendship as we both feel very responsible to the entity known as DFG Comics.

CCI: Can you speak a little bit about your creative process. By this I mean, how does a Captain Nepto comic come together?

DTA: Sometimes it's a one line plot that I draw basic panels and fill in the rest of the story. Other times it's a very long process that requires revisiting a plot a number of times to find some sort of plausible ending.

CCI: What has surprised you most during your 25+ years in the industry?

DTA: How much of myself I can see in the character of Captain Nepto. Also, the passion and fun Dan and I have when we get together and plot these character's lives. We really care about our creations and feel very responsible about telling their stories.

CCI: Okay... Everyone wants to know... Why did you originally draw Captain Nepto with a wig?

DTA: My art was terrible. I mean terrible. I knew Dan didn't like it, but he was still excited about seeing new stories. The wig was my attempt at adding detail to the art. Detail...can you believe it? Anyways, later it became a protective piece of armour to save Nepto from head injuries.

CCI: Describe your relationship with Dan Graves.

DTA: Dan is the model of a true friend. People make choices that others tend to judge and assume the role of those choices as if they had made them. This often causes trouble in relationships since the support system is disrupted. I have always appreciated Dan for his friendship and support of my decisions regardless of whether or not they have seen to be sound decisions at the time. He is also a very kind, generous man who shares my love and passion for comics. I have no idea why he chose a con like me for a friend.

CCI: What's "Dan's Hell-hole?"

DTA: Dan's Hell-hole was an "in-office" lampoon of life at DFG headquarters. It was a good-natured poke at Dan and the DFG leadership team. It made it look like DFG was an absolutely horrible place to work, which of course it isn't. It was all in good fun. I'm not ashamed of it, although I think that all the copies have been destroyed. I don't know who drew it, but I think it might have been Todd Abbot.

{BTW - this is the Official Company answer found in all DFG employee manuals - meant to be memorized by all staff and tested monthly in order to check compliance}

CCI: Aside from Nepto, what has been your most enduring creation?

DTA: Carnage City. On a separate afternoon, visiting Dan again in Richmond Hill, we began at the beginning of the Dictionary and went word for word through it looking for a city to base our heroes in. At the top of my list was Carnage. Dan agreed with the name and we've used it ever since. I'm half surprised that Frank Miller didn't steal it for his graphic novel. That's American's for you....too dumb to read Canadian comics!

CCI: How has it been working with Todd Abbot again?

DTA: I love Todd. I hate Todd. I'm happy he's around to quickly get out some stories...and I do like some of his new Nepto stuff....I guess I just have to submit and realize that he's always going to be a big part of the Nepto legend.

CCI: What can you tell us about the change of direction that we are going to see in the August issue of Captain Nepto Prime?

DTA: Since issue one I've tried to kill Nepto. It's true. I think the measure of a hero is how many times he can face the greatest adversity and still continue. In the August Prime I've penned my greatest tale to date. I'm really going to do my best to destroy everything about the character and leave only a broken David Anderson.

CCI: What can you tell us about future projects at DFG?

DTA: There will be more Spy Classics, Retro-Spy, Annuals and a lot from the back catalogue being re-issued.

CCI: Can you describe some of your corporate duties at DFG head office?

DTA: My top job is to bring an increased awareness to the company. I am actively trying to build our readership to new heights.

End of Part I

Captain Nepto Prime August Update

Special to DFG Online
By Cynthia Martin

With Captain Nepto Prime July almost ready for release, focus has heated up on the numerous rumours circulating about the August release. We are happy to report here first that there is indeed major changes in this issue, notwithstanding the combined efforts of both Todd Abbot and series creator Darryl Andrews in regards to all breakdowns and pencils. Darryl will be doing all the finishings to the drawings but will don the penciller title for the first time this Century! Confirmed also is that the story will feature Captain Nepto from both the 1980 and 1990 periods[!]. Mr. Andrews was quite silent when asked how one singular story can feature a Nepto from separate time periods but added, "It will all make sense...everything will make sense". Pictured here is the first released drawing from Darryl Andrews for the issue!

Canadian Comics Insider Interview with Dan Graves continues...

Part II - by Millicent Mortificus, special to DFG ONLINE

CCI: There is a wealth of characters from the old SPM Comics line that you purchased back in 1982 that have not been utilized to date. Will the fans ever get a chance to see these characters in the new continuity?
DFG: Absolutely. We have big plans for these characters. Watch for their return as early as Spy Comics Presents #4. They will play a part in the current "Battle of the Invincibles" storyline, which concludes in #5. Following #5, the format is changing to that of a "team-up" book. Look for your favourite SPM characters to appear in some of these team-ups!

CCI: Please describe the DFG decision to move from Newstand sales to Online Publishing.
DFG: Well, DFG likes to be on the cutting edge of things. We are continuing to print a limited number of paper copies for our long-time subscribers, but we are indeed shifting to a mainly online format. What can I say, it's the way of the future!

CCI: How do you see the DFG website expanding in the near future?
DFG: One of the things that I intend to introduce is more Annuals and Special Editions. We always promised annuals back in the old days, but were rarely able to deliver. The Spy Classics Annual will be ready for the fall, and as mentioned in the previous interview, we are planning a Retro-Spy Christmas Special featuring the Invincibles that I hope will become an annual DFG tradition. Some time ago I announced a funny animal book, Captain Nepto and His Furry Friends. Many people thought I was joking, but I was really quite serious. We need something for our younger readers.

CCI: Who's your favourite Captain Nepto Villain and why?
DFG: I always like Dr. Tequilia -- it's all about the name.

CCI: Is Peter Repovski coming back to DFG? Certainly the response to Spy Classics must've been huge...?
DFG: Yes, the fans are clamouring for more of Pete's work! Peter is a very busy independent business man. He does have a cover on his drawing board that he is hoping to ink in the near future. But he has so many constraints on his time. Pete's always welcome to contribute to DFG pending his availability.

CCI: Did you gain special permission to use DC's Robin back in the 1996 run?
DFG: That wasn't Robin. It's ashame that the Spy '96 Annual was never released. It was all to be explained there. I do think it needs to be clarified, though. This is the story... An orphaned street kid who looked up to The Agent decided that he wanted to be The Agent's sidekick. He stole a Robin costume from a local costume store, dressed up in it and started tagging along with The Agent, although he tried to discourage him. Immediately, The Agent told him that he couldn't wear a Robin costume because he would be infringing DC's copyright so they bought some colour dyes changed the colours of the costume and changed the "r" logo to a "b" logo for Budgie. That's right, the character was actually called "Budgie." You can't really tell the colour change, though, because we were only publishing in black in white back in the 1990's. Sadly, Budgie died in the Spy '96 Annual. The By the way, Frank Daniels is still working tying all the fragmentary artwork for the Spy '96 Annual together and his hoping to have it released by Christmas.

CCI: Are you planning on doing a solo hero title again?
DFG: Personally, no. Trying to run a company with over 100 staffers, all its subsidiaries, and write and draw a regular title (Spy Comics Presents), plus issues of Spy Classics and Retro-Spy means that I can't take on a solo series right now. However, DFG will be launching a new Redman book soon. The release date and creative team are yet to be announced. I'm hoping that maybe Darryl Andrews might want to take it on. He's much better with solo character books than me and he has a real passion for Redman. Redman was, of course, a key character in the 1981 Spy Comics run, but I decided not to bring him back for the '85 relaunch. He also remained absent for the '96 relaunch. However, Darryl liked the character and drew some pin-ups and next thing you know he was co-starring with Nepto in Retro-Spy #1 (1996). That helped me to see the potential for the character and made me realize that he really is DFG's "heavy-hitter." When I relaunched again in 2006 I made him an integral part of the Invincibles. I can assure once the current story arc is over, that Redman will emerge as the most important senior hero of the DFG universe!

CCI: How would you describe your art style? Any major influences?
DFG: My style has gone through many changes. I would say that generally, I have settled on a simple 1950's style with thick lines, deco-style shapes, and semi-cartoonish faces with exaggerated features. I try to draw each character consistently using a particular caricature so that you always know exactly who you're looking at. This is especially important in a multi-cast book like Spy Comics Presents. I suppose my influences include any of the Bob Kane ghosts (Jerry Robinson, George Rousseau, Sheldon Moldoff, Dick Sprang, etc), but not Kane himself; and of course I am a great fan of both Eisner and Caniff. In terms of recent artists, I am a fan of most of Darwyn Cooke's work.

CCI: Is it true that DFG published a limited edition 12 month calendar featuring the ugliest DFG girls as a lampoon?
DFG: Absolutely not.

CCI: What is Dan's Hell-hole and why has nobody seen it?
DFG: Dan's Hell-hole was an "in-office" lampoon of life at DFG headquarters. It was a good-natured poke at me and the DFG leadership team. It made it look like DFG was an absolutely horrible place to work, which of course it isn't. It was all in good fun. I'm not ashamed of it, although I think that all the copies have been destroyed. I don't know who drew it, but I think it might have been Todd Abbot.

CCI: Who is DFG's Strongest Hero?
DFG: Without a doubt, Redman. Nova seems to have untapped power as well. Glow Girl is also quite powerful.

CCI: Which super villain do you think is the most dangerous?
DFG: They are all dangerous, that's why their called SUPER villains, silly.

CCI: Is there a character in the DFG Universe that you're just about sick of seeing?
DFG: I think that the Jester has probably been overused. Darryl featured him in just about every other issue of the original (1981) Captain Nepto series. He wasn't seen again in the 1985 series, and played a very low profile in the '96 series (in Spy '96 #3, I believe). Todd Abbot brought him back in Spy Classics #1 (1996), and Darryl & Todd used him in the first issue of Captain Nepto Prime this year. At the same time, he has been appearing in current time in Spy Comics Presents. Since he "reformed" he has been serving as mayor of Carnage City and has now been elected leader of the National Party to replace the assassinated Prime Minister Randy Anderson. This means he's just about to be sworn in as PM! After the current arc is done, he will be featured regularly in current continuity in his new role. Is this too much Jester? I suppose the answer could be "yes," however, like Julius Smithers, he has dropped his costumed persona and taken on a new role. We are getting to explore a different side of him. He is crucial to our current exploration of human nature in the DFG universe. In the real world we are always electing criminals to public office, but in the DFG universe we are taking this to a new level... what if we were to elect super-criminals to public office... and what is the difference here between what we actually do and what is being done in our comics?!

CCI: Is there a company policy on the degree of violence that can be portrayed in the comics?
DFG: I think off-screen violence is better than on screen violence. It leaves more to the imagination. We judge each situation on a case-by-case basis. We try to be a family company.
End of Part 2