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Clint magazine is the sliced bread! It’s very existence is proof that geek is not only “chic,” but it won’t suffocate from it’s own foul odor like it did in the 90s. In fact, I predict that if embraced affectionately, Clint could be responsible for improving the way that John Q. Public views the medium --- not just accepting the movies it produces, but actual comics.

Organized by comics scribe Mark Millar (“Kick-Ass,” “The Ultimates,” “Civil War,”) with the intention of diversifying the U.K. comic book audience (the rest of the world gets the book a month later from Diamond Comics Distribution), the September 2010 debut is ninety-eight pages of cryptic exposes (“Charles Manson’s Secret Hollywood Hit List”), out of the ordinary interviews (“The Chinese Tom Cruise,” about voiceover artist from other countries), and, yes, those wonderful things called comics.

The first issue features a direct sequel to Millar’s “Kick-Ass.” Not just an ineffective side story, “Kick Ass 2: Balls to the Wall” reunites artist John Romita Jr. and Millar with the title hero and, fan-favorite, Hit Girl. While the comic is short, it is fulfilling. It also implies that this is one of many short stories featuring the two characters and that an arc is forming (whether it will continue through Marvel/Icon is unclear). 

First up, is Johnathan Ross’ “Turf” about prohibition era New York City. A British TV and radio personality, Ross’ story is surprisingly readable despite it’s enjoyably curious plot turns. I won’t give it away but I am interested to see where he’s going with all this craziness in part two.

Comedian Frankie Boyle follows Ross with “Rex Royd,” an inverted capes and tights story about a foot soldier working for a corporate super villain. Hysterically cruel, fans of Millar’s “Wanted” will appreciate Boyle’s story in particular.

Alternative yet vivid, “Clint” magazine is chock-full of Mark Millar’s patented cynicism. From the comics to the articles, the publication thumbs its’ nose at the reader while simultaneously asking you to join in on the fun. Alan Moore’s “Dodge ‘Em Logic” magazine (which debuted a few months earlier) took a similar approach but was devoid of mainstream appeal. Millar seems to have a more inviting approach. Hopefully, his sensationalistic style can turn enough heads to find a broader audience for comics at home and abroad.

Troy-Jeffrey Allen writes mean things to maintain his sanity. He is a comic book writer as well as an entertainment critic for OfNote Magazine, Forces of Geek, and Comic Book Bin. He has a cardboard box he calls home at www.TypographicEra.com.