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Molek FMLeinil Yu: The Art of Superheroes
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A little bird told us Man of Steel had some inspiration from Birthright. Any confirmation on this?
I have no idea but I sure hope so!!!! That would be an honour. I kinda doubt it though.
Regardless though, Birthright was a spectacular reimagining of the first superhero archetype (as we know them today, after their pulpy incarnation), Superman. It proved that old characters can still be fresh. What was the process like between you and Mark Waid in reworking the Superman mythos?
Birthright was supposed to be a self-contained title, in a universe that’s oblivious to the main DC universe. I had full freedom in the designs and I had a lot of fun. Mark Waid was amazing and it was a great experience. Looking forward to working with Mark Waid again.
What is it with Pinoy comic book talents and the big two? They seem to really gravitate toward you guys. There must be something in the water.
As I’ve proffered earlier, I’d attribute it to our heavy exposure to American culture. The Philippines has produced a batch of amazing talents back in the 70s and 80s as most people know, though I’d like to clear up that there is not a direct lineage between us and them, save for a couple of artists. We look up to those masters with awe and reverence but a lot of us owe our styles to the Image founders and 90s US comics. I’m not so sure what the factors are in Brazil and Italy, which also produces quite a substantial amount of talent.
What are your thoughts on creator rights in the mainstream comic industry? Is it still an issue? What not with the whole hoopla over the Watchmen prequels.
I think it’s way better now than when the Watchmen contract was conceived. In a way, Silent Dragon and Highroads are on the same legal “structure”. Good thing is, no one cares as much about our books so we have a way better chance of getting the rights back!
Share with us some of your favourite comic books.
Apart from the staple Sandman, Watchmen, The Dark Knight Returns, etcetera, I had the fondest memory reading an old Grendel spinoff by Darko Macan and the late Edvin Biukovic. Maus is of course one of the best comics I’ve ever read, a sentiment shared by anyone who has read and finished it, I suppose. Warren Ellis’ Stormwatch and Authority, Mark Millar’s Ultimates and Old Man Logan, and many others that I can’t enumerate without offending anyone. I also recently read “Who is Jake Ellis” from Image comics.
On a final note, share us your thoughts on The Dark Knight Rises.
Honestly, I was underwhelmed. I loved The Dark Knight and this was clearly inferior. Lots of silliness going on from the back injury instant repair to the unarmed Braveheart scene by the cops against dozens of heavily armed men. Further annoyed by Batman’s blind insistence on beating Bane in a fair fistfight when millions of people are about to die. And yeah, the fighting is lame. Jason Bourne and Steven Seagal would’ve kicked his ass. Sorry to end my interview on a low note. You should’ve asked me about The Avengers. Cheers!
Wha–?! We’re trying hard to contain our fanboy rage here… but cheers!
Leinil Yu will be making an appearance at Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention (STGCC) 2012 from 1 to 2 September 2012. Get more information on the convention at www.singaporetgcc.com. Check out Leinil’s artworks (and ask him questions) at www.leinilyu.com.
