Search Results

In a joint interview, Marvel's promotion manager and publicity director explain their distinct but complementary roles: Rutt targets the general consumer press emphasizing social and literary significance of titles like The 'Nam, while Saffel focuses on the direct market retailer with advance information and creator credentials. They discuss the growth of media interest in comics as a business story and Marvel's use of imprints (Epic, Star) and the Comics Code to signal audience range to retailers.

Two separate interviews are presented together: the first, conducted by Brian Talley, covers Romita Jr.'s career from breaking in via Iron Man (with Dave Michelinie and Bob Layton) through his long run on Amazing Spider-Man, exploring his father's influence (John Romita Sr. discouraged him from comics), his views on social commentary and violence in comics, and his feelings about ego and self-imposed pressure. The second, a shorter piece by Steve Saffel who caught him dropping off art at the Marvel Bullpen, focuses on his new role as X-Men penciller — he discusses the challenge of following Byrne, Cockrum, and Paul Smith on what he calls a "suicide book," his working relationship with Chris Claremont, his affinity for the diverse cast, and his careful research for location-specific issues.