Mario Gully Erik Larsen and The Ant Incident

[@NavySharkz]

Hey bro. I had no idea when I made that comment about Erik Larsen and Mario Gully that it would actually lead to a full video. As always, I'm glad that you are the one to cover it. Great work!

[@JerkComic]

DANG IT! I looked and looked for your comment man, used the search function to no avail even, would have shouted you out. Did you like this one? I really wanted to do OMG some justice and I wanted to make both sides of this clear and really clear up stuff for everyone involved. Hope I did it a little justice as I know you're one of the die hard fans I kept referring to as am I. Hopefully he does the interview and I can dig even deeper, and god willing - we see more work from him in the future. And I can't thank you enough for checking this out as always. Seriously appreciate you wasting 2 hours of your life on me and THEN takign the time to leave a comment, means a lot. PLUS, I have you to thank for this entire episode. I knew all this vague and random stuff but I got to thinking about it after you posted and it was this wonderful rabbit's hole where I learned so much cool stuff. That's why I love this channel and I try so hard to respond and interact with you all. As much as I hope you guys take something away from these videos and learn and enjoy them, selfishly, MY favorite part is learning all this awesome stuff from YOU ALL!

[@mrrictus]

This is what we call, synchronicity :)

[@JerkComic]

@@mrrictus That's what this channel is all about. I love learning about comics and when I was taking about this in the comments I was like, but I wonder about this and that... and then bam! You end up with this and Deathmate video which was a request by another viewer David Arroyo. Best videos imho. I get to learn and then I get to share all that new info with people I KNOW are interested. Best of both world for this here Jerk

[@NavySharkz]

@@JerkComic No problem bro! As always, you did us all proud and as always, I learned some new information from you. I consider it truly ironic that OMG idolized the early Image founders and ended up letting the early success go to his head just like they did only to get caught up in the hype. Thank you for another fantastic episode. And what a perfect episode to let you know that I am finally in a financial position to become one of your Patrons! Gotta keep this channel going for as long as possible.

[@solomonallen3524]

@@JerkComic please do Dale keown and what happened to PITT?

[@kazbtowner8105]

I’d always avoided Ant at conventions and shops because of how t&a it seemed. So, walking into this fresh, I was blown away by this vid. An incredible story told brilliantly. Was at the edge of my seat from start to end. Thanks so much for all your hard work on these!!

[@JerkComic]

Wouldn't be possible without amazing people like yourself my friend - you make these videos possible! As always thanks for checking this out, so happy you enjoyed. I too avoided Ant like the plague until I was tempted into checking out a buddies copy. I was instantly struck by how cool I thought the premise was. While it's sad it never truly lived up to it's potential in my eyes, it was truly a roller coaster ride getting to learn all about this series. Certainly didn't expect it to get NEAR this crazy when I started researching haha!

[@mikebipping6166]

t & a? tf does that even mean😭

[@vincentthekeeper2163]

Man. Seriously imagine this. Getting your foot in the door with Todd McFarlane and you try to talk to him about the comic industry and breaking in and he's like "sorry you just missed me I'm a toy guy now." I'd be crushed. Kudos to him that he kept grinding.

[@JerkComic]

I know right!?! People don't remember that McFarlane just kinda phased outta comics after a couple of issues of Spawn again and was doing his cards and toys and stuff. I get the feeling he probably did a lot of REALLY tiresome crappy production work and just tossed in the towel when they didn't use his pinups and stuff. MAJOR kudos to Gully in all regards here though. You hear stories about people determined to break into comics - but THIS, this is determination! Thanks so much for checking this out btw, hope you enjoyed! I really appreciate you not only taking the time to watch this but leave a comment as well btw, means a lot to know people are actually watching these and it helps out the channel a ton!

[@analiamoranchel186]

This sure was a rollercoaster of a video. This guy kept getting better and better, no joke, the art in dirty bones is mind-blowing! I really wish Gully the best, wherever he is.

[@JerkComic]

I know, right!?! I kept waiting for him to just either completely crash and burn or give up, and he refused to do either! I still really hope we see more from him in the future, and maybe even Dirty Bones one day - because man does that book look cool! I'm not even into adult books like this and it still looks so good I would have bought it - heck, still would! Seriously appreciate you checking this out. I know it wasn't short and I really appreciate you not only taking the time to check it out, but leave a comment when you were done! It means the world to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I make so I seriously appreciate it, and I can't tell you how much it helps out the channel - so thanks again!

[@jacksonhunkle2444]

JerkComic has become one of the highest-quality comic industry content creators on KZbin.

[@JerkComic]

Um, wow. I'll take it. I don't know about that, with so many other amazing guys out there but with the helps of all the channels supporters and the Patreon page I'm really getting to concentrate and work more on the channel. So happy it's showing! I hope you enjoyed this one and I can't tell you how much I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment, especially such a kind one! Not only does it help out the channel a ton but it means the world to know that people are actually watching these silly videos I make and enjoying them. Thanks again!

[@NavySharkz]

Agreed! 👍

[@NavySharkz]

@@JerkComic He's right. As I've said before, your channel is one of maybe 2 that I know of on the Tube where every video is insightful and jam-packed with info. The one on one interviews are the best I've seen so far. I'm glad your channel came across my recommendations. It's awesome bro!👍

[@flashfreakmx]

I do agree with this... And like the other guy said... Only two out there on this level. This channel goes deeper though

[@nathanbuttgame]

Yeah you should be selling your research and documentary videos really. People get paid well to do less. Your videos are quite good and insightful and I was shocked your channel is so small. Here before the blow up.

[@deebsmigs]

He used to be active in an artist Facebook group, until people turned on him. I recognized his style from seeing Ant decades ago in the comic books shops. So at first I thought it was cool a veteran comic artist was participating. But he's a complex person. On one hand he's an inspiring and charismatic individual. But on the other hand, he can be stubborn and antagonistic. It's undeniable that he has talent and potential. But I can’t help but think he might have achieved more and gone further if he hadn’t been his own biggest obstacle.

[@bixx9463]

Another great piece. Your research is, as always, really incredible. This isn't just a review of Gully and Ant, but a deep insight into the industry of the day - with all its pros and cons. "... like finding a unicorn that craps diamonds." - that line made me laugh out loud. Hilarious.

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much, that really means the world to me. I try to go above and beyond with my pieces, and I'm slowly but surely learning not to be a completely terrible editor so I'm stoked you enjoyed. I can't thank you enough for not only taking the time to check this out, but leave a comment as well btw. It seriously means the world to me to know people are actually watching these videos I upload, and it helps out the channel more than you know - so thank you again! And glad it made you laugh, gotta get it a LITTLE brevity where I can, usually pretty dry to say the least haha

[@jacob_ian_decoursey_the_author]

I’d like to see this guy on the convention circuit. I think he could make a decent income or at least side hustle doing commissions and selling original art that he could use to pay bills and even fund his next comic project. He could also go the recent Tim Vigil route and start a patreon to offer some of the more “risqué work he seems to enjoy producing. It’d be a shame to see someone like him who worked so hard to climb from from rock bottom fade into complete obscurity and live in poverty again.

[@JerkComic]

I get the feeling he has a hard time following through with commissions and work at this point. I'm honestly beginning to think there's some underlying mental health condition he's dealing with. His page is covered in complaints from people who never got commissions and work they've already paid for - then again, convention might be a good way to go since someone can stand there and watch you draw their stuff need be, haha. I know I've gotten a few pieces over the years that was the only way I was paying for it. I agree it would be a real shame to loose Gully completely. He's continued to improve even since he got kicked out of the biz and looking at some of the stuff he's done I wonder why he isn't at least doing variant covers or something for someone like Dynamite or something. I mean they do like 50 covers for some of their books, you'd think he could get work somewhere. This likely means he is legit black listed, or Gully is indeed just that difficult to work with. No idea which. He agreed to do an interview prior to this documentary but I never managed to get him to set a time. Hoping he'll still come on as I'd love to hear his side of things, which become increasingly downed out in coverage over the years. Thanks so much for checking this out btw, I really appreciate it! I know this wasn't short and I'm really stoked you liked it. I also appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment when you were done. It means the world to know people are actually watching and enjoying these uploads and it helps out the channel more than you know - so thanks again!

[@tanneroneal5388]

This is going to keep me company (and awake) tomorrow during my slow work day, looking forward to this man. Keep up the good shit

[@JerkComic]

You keep watching em, and I'll keep making 'em! Make sure to let me know what you think if you get a chance, curious what people are making of this one as it's kind of longer but I think actually more structured and much better edited as well... lemme know and thanks a million for taking the time to check out my stuff, means a lot!

[@angusmacfrankenstein7227]

28:12-This is the first time I’ve heard of Gully or the Ant series, but at this point in the story, my first reaction is to say it would make a wonderful standalone novel or graphic novel, but not a series. Speaking for myself, I don’t much patience for long stories that are more rumination than action-probably because I’ve done a fair amount of ruminating in my time! I wonder if the themes of Ant were ideas Gully needed to deal with as a kind of exorcism, then having purged that, maybe he would have been better off to move on to some other artistic project, and one not so close to his real life…

[@hulkslayer626]

Having never even heard of this comic, I find the idea absolutely fascinating! There is a LOT of potential there. The fact that it is a girl's journal and the "hero" is a representation of that, the potential to have villains be representations of the difficulties that Hannah is going through in real life is tremendous. A school bully, parent, authority figure, depression, fear, self-esteem etc... could all be villains. And subsequently Ant's appearance could reflect Hannah's state of mind. If Hannah met a boy she thought was cute, Ant could be sexy and an ideal in Hannah's mind. When she is depressed, Ant could actually be smaller and weakened etc... It would be a "Hero" story, but for the everyday hero. Could even touch on the subject of escapism if Ant is becoming weaker and weaker and Hannah discovers the dark side of escapism through therapy or something. ...just my opinion.

[@ObiWanShinobi67]

If Ant had come out within the last 5 years, I could see it getting pretty big. Awesome vid.

[@JerkComic]

I honestly wish that Larsen would have run with Gully's original premise when he relaunched the title a few years back. If he had it wouldn't have disappeared just as quickly as it popped back up again, Image just totally sucked all of the interesting parts out of her and her character - heck, the entire book actually. Made it into this lame superhero book which the first 4 issues simply are not.

[@kurukblackflame]

It's good that Larson was trying to help Gully-If that is indeed the case. For me, buying a character from a creator who finds themselves in difficult circumstances could be a genuinely helpful gesture or it could to an opportunistic move to gain an asset at a cut price. I feel like if Larson had really wanted to help Gully, he might have been able to do so without stripping him of his beloved and popular OC in the process.

[@rockon8174]

This IS BUSINESS not a charity!!!

[@wichitarichard]

I have to say THANK YOU for covering my favorite comic book character Hanna Washington aka Ant!!!

[@JerkComic]

Man there's not a ton of dyed in the wool fans out there, but you guys stuck with it till the bitter end. You're not only welcome, but thank YOU for checking this out. While Ant will be relatively new or something they were only peripherally aware of, I'm beyond elated that long time fans like you enjoyed this and I did the series a little justice I hope? Hope you enjoyed this one. I know it was a beast, and I seriously appreciate you takign the time to leave such a kind comment once you got done with it. Hopefully we see Gully pop back up, I mean man, would I ever love to see Dirty Bones actually get released!

[@wichitarichard]

@@JerkComic Thank you again! This to me is the definitive documentary of the character. As a day one supporter (Arcana Presents #1) of Ant, I am with you in the sentiment that I love the premise of the first book and wish it would all go back to it. I am a fan of little Hanna first and foremost. The super hero was her (and my) escape from reality. In my head canon, all the adult adventures are still not real and are still being written in journal form (as for Unleashed, the journal was highjacked by some ne'erdowells.) On a separate note, trying to track down every appearance (and variant cover) of Ant has been a struggle in the past 20 years. Not only her self titles, but also her appearances (even in a single panel) in Omega One, War of the Independents, Spawn, Savage Dragon, and Pariah, etc.

[@tnperkins4art]

Looking forward to hearing this bit of info.

[@JerkComic]

Hopefully it was worth the extra week wait!

[@artenthusiast5936]

wow. would love to see gully's view on this video. he seems to be his own best advocate AND his own worst enemy. i would love to see him draw the story tho. i can't imaging larsen going for that again.

[@JerkComic]

I was supposed to interview him before this was released. It was taking forever so I went ahead with this, but I'm still hoping he'll come on the channel and talk as I'd love to get his side of the story for sure. And no. Larsen definitely won't be having Gully back, or even reprinting his work anytime soon. While I don't think there's necessarily bad blood, he's definitely not eager to do the guy any favors and he doesn't like the Arcana volume, sooooo... Thanks so much for checking this out. So happy you enjoyed. I also really appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment! It helps out the channel a ton and it puts a big old smile on my face to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I put out - so thanks again!

[@luciferfernandez7094]

Thanks for this one! Never heard of Gully nor Ant before (I stopped reading American comics in 2001 or 02). The first volume, of Ant being the creation of a kid trying to grasp with reality sounds compelling - it’s a genre on it’s own (Pan’s Labyrinth, Terabithia, that film with the Culkin’s little bro that had Mcfarlane animation, etc.) and it sounds like it has the potential of something like Gunn’s Super. Yet, Gully’s history is way more interesting and compelling! Will check this one out!

[@JerkComic]

I have to say, I love Ant, but the story OF Ant is infinitely more entertaining than the book was. The second volume is just ram shod crazy all over the place, but Vol 1 really is a diamond in the rough imho. So glad you enjoyed, can't thank yuo enough for taking the time to actually make it through this entire thing and then leave a comment as well. It means a lot and helps out the channel. If you DO end up checking Ant out, and you get a chance, pop back in and let me know what you think! I'm always curious to know what people make of this weird stuff I'm into!

[@cristiansiles]

what a story! Only had a glimpse of the Ant character back in the day, Really like the art of Mario Gully, Hope He is doing ok. Saludos Tio Jerk, gran video!

[@JerkComic]

I'm hoping he does an interview. I talked to him prior to starting this but haven't managed to set up a time. Hope this didn't hurt his feelings or anything as I really hope he gets back on his feet and I want to see more work from him. Glad I could fill in some gaps and as always mi hermano, thanks so much for checking the video out and taking the time to leave a comment! Means the world and I appreciate it as always

[@supersnappahead]

Wonderful video, man. Truly stellar work and a great watch. Thank you for all of the effort you're putting into these massive projects.

[@JerkComic]

Wouldn't mean a thing without people to check them out! I really appreciate the kind words. I think the little bit extra TLC going into these things and giving them some extra room to breath has been good for me and the channel. I keep trying to get a little better at editing each video too, and hopefully the time and energy shows! Thanks again so much for the kind words as well as for checking this monster out in general! I know it wasn't short, so I really appreciate you watching and then takign the time to leave a comment as well btw. Not only does it help out the channel a ton but it puts a big old smile on my face knowing people actually watch and enjoy these silly videos I'm making!

[@supersnappahead]

@@JerkComic The detail is most certainly setting your content apart from everyone else doing this kind of stuff and as a comic lover, it's always greatly appreciated. You're in a niche market with these comic history vids, so I doubt you'll ever get a massive following like you deserve, but you will absolutely cultivate a loyal fanbase that loves everything you give us!

[@DoppelgangerShockwave]

Mario Gully is a super talented artist, and no one can ever take that away from him, but as a storyteller and as a businessman, he seems quite lacking, sadly. Thanks for the documentary on Mario Gully, Jerk. You did a great job presenting this story. :)

[@JerkComic]

Thanks for checking it out man, glad I handled this one a little more level handed in your opinion! I totally agree Gully is his own worst enemy. He's so talented, but there's a ton of artists out there like that. Being good at business and social stuff? Yeah... not so much. I ended up managing a few friends who were artists before I had a kid because they just couldn't do it. They all went on to do some pretty amazing stuff and I think Gully could do the same if he just had the right someone to light a fire under his butt. Hopefully we haven't heard the last of him!

[@erickkorpi]

Great video, lots of in depth research and quality that I've come to expect from you! I often wondered if around that Era is when Larsen started getting more...risqué...with Malcolm than he ever was with Dragon was him trying to show of uptight people were getting. Thank you again for Great job!

[@JerkComic]

I thought MAYBE that was the case for a while... seeing how they chucked Gully under the bus though, yeah - definitely not. I think Larsen just likes drawing T&A as much, if not MORE than Gully. Sadly Larsen was in a position to get away with it with the support of Image and his name behind him, where as Gully, well, obviously had neither. I'd really like to ask Larsen about this. Their editors should have either told Gully it was going to be a problem, or helped him when it did become a problem. Tons of mainstream Image books had WAY worse in them and I'm curious to hear why he didn't come to the aid of the guy he helped bring on board, especially considering how much "potential" Larsen thought Ant had... Thanks so much for checking this out and taking the time to leave a comment btw. I know it wasn't short and I seriously appreciate you not only watching this, but taking the time to leave a comment when you were done. It helps out the channel a ton and it really does put a smile on my face to know people are watching and enjoying these videos I upload - so thanks again!

[@erickkorpi]

@@JerkComic Erik is pretty social of FB and often replies to comments and messages and emails. Sometime he takes a while due to deadline crunches, but he almost always replies...sometimes you just have to nudge him or bribe with cheeseburgers! Erik's a good dude though, you should definitely reach out!

[@JerkComic]

@@erickkorpi I will. I REALLY like Larsen. Which is why I do NOT want our first introduction to be me asking him about this haha. I've interviewed Dave Olbrich who helped Liefeld Larsen and Valentino set up the initial Image deal with Malibu and I don't know why, but Jim Valentino recently took time out of his crazy schedule to do an amazing interview as well. Eventually I'll get Larsen and Kirkman too, 😄

[@ottebya]

this was EPIC. I remember seeing Ant some places collecting back in the day but never bought it so didnt know anything about it, really interesting to hear all about it and also Larsen's take on the character to me seems actually like something Id be interested to read (coming from a non-Ant-fan so I imagine those who liked the character may feel different)

[@JerkComic]

I can't tell you about Larsen's take on the character as all he's done as of yet is finish up Vol 2 with issue 12 that he did. I can say that issue was complete trash, but I think that after sitting a decade like it did with basically zero work done to it and just slapped together to promo a new upcoming series and I think drum up some interest through drama means. His take will certainly be a more traditional 90s style straight up Image book and I imagine that will appeal to a much larger demographic, especially when done by Larsen. Personally I'm completely uninterested as it has nothing to do with the story that I got vested in with that first series, but that fact in and of itself is rather interesting. How much she's changed and evolved and yet remained around somehow and looks to stay that way for a good long while now. I'm happy to share Gully's story with people and I hope they take the positive away from what this story has to offer, and maybe, just maybe, we get to see more of this guy in the future - because man, does he do some incredible work or what! A sad and twisted tale here for sure... Thanks for checking it out as always my friend, appreciate the support as well as you taking the time to leave a comment - means a lot and helps out the channel a ton!

[@RurouniStarchild]

1:13:09 To be honest, I lost my mind when I heard the name Ralph Macchio as a Senior Marvel Editor. I'm like, "HOLY CRUD! MIYAGI-DO AND MARVEL CONFIRMED!" But then I googled him and it was a different RM and I was like "ah, crap." That would've been crazy, though.

[@JerkComic]

You should have been a kid pre-internet in a small town. The speculation was RAMPANT that was why you didn't see him in movies anymore, haha! I remember how bummed I was even though I always thought, there NO way....

[@sneakyskunk1]

That was absolutely heartbreaking. This is the type of rags to riches story you would like to end with, "and they all lived happily ever after". Sadly that just was not the case. That is a shame. The artist was clearly talented. Uncle Jerk is the very person to bring a story like this one to light. Quality work as always UJ, thank you for it!

[@JerkComic]

Yeah I don't know if ANYONE gets to live happily ever after, but man did I want there to be an upside to the ending. While I didn't find one while doing the video, I don't know if you saw, but I did finally get a chance to sit down and interview Mario. We filled in some gaps, talked about his leave of absence and it's been really cool, since we did our interview he's back on social media, he's posting art again - I think this year is gonna be the year we see him make a push back to do some work and I just keep hoping and praying it works out! Keep an eye out on the channel for details on getting some original Mario Gully published art and signed comics btw!

[@sneakyskunk1]

@@JerkComicSir, only you could have ever revived this person's story. You have always been the very best one to explore things like this. I would very much like to see this person have a career revival because you were looking at this amazing person's art. You have impeccable taste sir. I will always watch you sir.

[@plungecastnz]

Thank you for this. I loved reading the Ant comic a few years back and liked the artstyle. And as a indie comic creator/writer its sad but also amazing to see what Mario went through to create and try to keep bringing his work to life. Business and comics go hand in hand and well not everyone out here is taking courses to learn how to be a good creator business person. We can learn alot from others and I hope Mario through it all has come to learn that we love his work but also wish him the best.

[@JerkComic]

First off, thanks so much for not only checking this out but the kind and insightful words. It means a lot and that's why I produce content like this man. I actually ended up interviewing Mario and we've gotten to be pretty good friends over the last few years. He's a super talented guy with some big plans and I'm hoping that we start seeing some more work from him coming up in 2024. Trying to set up a follow up interview with him in the next few weeks actually so if you're curious keep an eye out for that one...

[@chuzzbot]

Totally fascinating. Great episode, great channel.

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much! I can't thank you enough for the kind words. Means a lot to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I upload, and it helps out the channel a ton - so thanks again!

[@davidquiles2707]

Mario Gully is drawing on another level these days. Super great work Mario!

[@JerkComic]

Yeah it's so cool he's making his way back into the fray - we've gotten to be good friends over the last few years and seeing him doing covers and commissions again has really put a smile on my face. Appreciate you checking this out!

[@lacanidjion]

The hidden history of comics

[@JerkComic]

Amen to this - however, hidden no long. Along with the Gully interview that I did following this I think the story of Ant is basically out there. There were some really interesting bomb drops during the interview as well, seriously crazy to get to talk with him and get it straight from the source. I seriously appreciate the kind words as I think comics are a truly valid form of art and therefore worthy of historical study which is what this whole channel has become aimed at. Really appreciate you not only taking the time to check this out but leave a comment as well btw, means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos I spend so long on and it helps out the channel more than you know - so thanks again!

[@harrypartridgelive]

Another awesome video. Thanks JC!

[@JerkComic]

Thank you as always for the support kind sir! Couldn't do these videos without the help of awesome viewers such as yourself. So glad you enjoyed this one and as always, super appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment man

[@comixchill6332]

I hit play on this thinking I’d watch the first 5 minutes. I ended up watching it ALL and the interview you did with Gully, back to back! Incredibly inspiring stuff. I’d seen Ant here and there over the years and the recent Larsen reboot, but was clueless to the story behind it. Your thumbnail sucked me in and your great presentation kept me watching. Looking forward to watching more of your videos and going to start reading Ant from the beginning.

[@JerkComic]

Seriously appreciate the kind words. It means a lot to know that people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I spend so long on man. It was so interesting because I actually have gotten to be good friends with Mario, we were just talking a few minutes ago, haha - and I seriously hope he makes something of a comeback one way or another. The guy is immensely talented and it's been really nice getting to know him better. I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to check all this stuff out but for the kind words as well man, means a lot and it helps out the channel a ton has been awesome seeing you checked out and enjoyed several other pieces enough to comment, seriously appreciated!

[@comixchill6332]

@@JerkComic I hope he makes a comeback too! Great to hear you guys have become pals :) I saw his Maxx drawing on your Instagram recently. Such a brilliant pairing.

[@JerkComic]

@@comixchill6332 Yeah he's doing a cover for Kirkham's book he's KickStarting right now, been really awesome to see him coming back and hitting the ground running.

[@TheBestComicKing]

Again, I really impressed how your topic/video is very well researched, and that you try to present both sides of the coin.

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much. I'm not out to paint anyone out to be a villain, or a hero. I don't think that plays to heavily into our real world narrative. I just want to set the record straight. Give people the information and let THEM decide. I think Gully showed a lot of strength and dedication, and I can totally understand where Larsen is coming from as well. This was just a sad one for me. Hopefully Gully can manage to get stuff together and do another book. He's an amazing artist and I think the industry is lesser without his talents for whatever that's worth. Thanks so much for checking this out btw! I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to make it through this monster, but leave a comment when you were done. It helps out the channel immensely and I can't tell you how much it means to know people re actually watching and enjoying these videos I produce - so thanks again!

[@MrBracey100]

I find it ironic that Larsen wanted Gully to do Ant with kids in mind but his Dragon has gone from having violence and TnA to being full on porn.

[@JerkComic]

I also find it ironic he wanted to gear it towards kids period. But on top of that, he wanted to eliminate the child character. Ant was and is not being handled well. I'm happy Hannah is still around, hopefully someday someone will take her back to her Arcana roots and reboot the series right... but what do I know? I'm just a jerk with a KZbin channel! Hope you enjoyed this and if you want to learn more check out the interview I did with Mario after this came out.

[@gwlankard1]

Awesome video. I like how this video shows how hard it is to get your ideas out there. A lot of fans have no idea.

[@JerkComic]

Yeah it's either all luck or just someone has always been famous. They don't get what it takes, the time, drive and determination it takes to get your ideas out there. It's a real shame things ended like they did for Gully as he worked so hard, but it seems he fell victim to his own hustler mentality. I'm really hoping he still does the interview as I'd love to at least HEAR his side of the storya

[@cliffwoodbury5319]

Thank you - i thurilly enjoyed this video. I knew about the character and always thought it is one of the best characters i had ever heard of and now to get the story behind its creator it makes me wish he succeeds even more. I'd like to see him and his creation make a huge impact on comics in the near future.

[@JerkComic]

Too bad he doesn't own her anymore... I still hold out hope that he'll crawl out of the woodwork and we will see something from Gully in the future. I've talked to him a few times, so I'm hoping to get a chance to chat with him about it all.

[@miguelthedrawtist]

Mario Gully is a modern day tortured artist. As a black indie artist myself, I really feel for him. Honestly would love to hire him or work with him one day. Hope he's doing well where ever he is

[@JerkComic]

If you need contact information or want me to try and get you in touch with Mario just let me know - would love to help facilitate work for him and a viewer at the same time. Feel free to hit me up here, IG, or on Facebook if you want man... plus - TEASE! You can't just be like, oh yeah I'm an indie artist myself and then not link! Come on, gimme, gimme! Always on the lookout for good stuff and I could give a toss less if it's printed by a billion dollar corporation or a guy in his living room if it's good. Thanks so much for checking this out btw. Means a lot to know people are actually watching and enjoying these interviews as a lot really does go into them. Plus, I can't tell you how much it helps out the channel that you took the time to leave a comment btw - so thanks again and again and seriously, if you wanna pay for work and got something for him to work on let me know and I'll do my dangdest to make something happen!

[@claywoodral7587]

Mario's story would make a great movie.

[@JerkComic]

Yeah it really would. You couldn't do the whole Hollywood thing as it doesn't have the happiest of endings, but man this would be a great art house flick... Thanks so much for checking this out! Hope you enjoyed and I seriously appreciate you not only watching, but taking the time to leave a comment when you were done. Helps out the channel a ton and it means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos I upload - so thanks again!

[@victimaazul2394]

This was awesome. Thank you for this! Your best work yet! Thank you Uncle Jerk ! Love your narration.

[@JerkComic]

So happy you enjoyed! My voice is a love it or hate it kind of thing apparently, haha! It's just what happens when I get fired up talking about comics, so I'm glad it doesn't grate on you like it does some others, lmao. It's been amazing with the Patreon I've been able to really start concentrating and putting more TLC into these videos and have loved what's come of it. I can't wait to see where the next year takes the channel with the help of Patreon and Members, got some great stuff in the works!

[@edaniels240]

Mario is the real life Jack Deebs from Cool World where in that movie Gabriel Byrne's Jack was an illustrator who spent his time behind bars and one of the comics he worked on was Cool World

[@JerkComic]

Hahaha, he brings that movie up a few times actually! I thought I was like one of 10 people in the world that still remembers that film, lmao. Deep cut my friend!

[@michaeljohnson-curry3979]

This is the first ive seen of your work on this channel! This was incredible work and I'm sharing it with my friends. Liked and subscribed. this was an incredible little documentary and I wanted to say that! May i just suggest speaking just a bit faster? This was all so well done, but you speak very slowly and methodically, this video should have 10 x the views it has and maybe that is the reason! Please keep up the AMAZING work! gonna be watching your other vids through the week!

[@smackroscoe]

Shame. So much talent, so much potential but...yeah. Hope, MG finds the help, clarity & inspiration to get back up again & get to work! For EL, I have faith that he treats ANT with as much love, ingenuity & fun as he puts into the Savage Dragon. Finally, thanks to brother JC for all that you do for us & all the dedication, hard work & interesting topics. Respect!

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much. I really appreciate you taking the time to check this out and can't thank you enough for the kind words. I really like Mario, we've gotten to be fairly good friends since this was released, and it's been wonderful seeing him getting back on his feet. He's doing commissions, I know he's done a few covers, some interiors - just wonderful to see him working again. I actually have a small benefit for him coming up that he's helped me put together in hopes we can get his name back out there and get him back connected with fans and get some cool stuff in your guys hands. Appreciate you checking this out again, and Mario is far from done - he's coming back and I for one can't wait to see him bring the heat!

[@yeez13]

Having binged all of the Ant stories that Mario Gully wrote/co-wrote and did the Art on, I found myself so fascinated by the way his inexperience and lack of storytelling savvy made the stories even better (or, rather, more engaging) than something meticulously & methodically labored over and constantly edited to Perfection by someone(s) else who could easily write a better story & draw “better” art. I could very easily see just what Erik Larsen and Roy Thomas saw in him and wanting to work with him: he was a self-taught and overflowing with ideas coming from a uniquely different experience they’d not know nearly an inkling of or anything akin to his Experiences. It’s both a great gesture on his part but awful reality that Erik Larsen bought out the Ant character herself (IP and Everything) then proceeded to make the character much more…Blaise & Safe. Though, I appreciate that Erik kept his word and proceeded to make Ant an “Image Universe Heroine” like he wanted Mario Gully to establish her as. It seems ridiculous on the face of it, but really “appreciating” the art and setup of the books over time, you can see how Larsen wanted to make her unique. After reading all the Ant books, I’ve become a bit of a fan of the character, with the costume’s risqué & (superhuman levels of) thirstiness in its design + superfluousness not a factor 😒. Honest. If it were up to me? I’d do a Maxiseries of Ant and happily even redo the canon for both Larsen and Gully; have Gully make as many contributions as possible since I can see him now having a much better grip of where he wanted things to go. Mario Gully was a prodigy only getting better with time, yet chose to get in his own way. I only wonder how great he’d be if he’d played his cards right…maybe he’d be drawing the main Batman book or something else incredibly high-profile. He’s a “What If” Story Personified.

[@420negus]

Never heard of this till today. Love the design wow

[@JerkComic]

The first run of this book by Arcana is a real gem in my opinion for those early 90s Image vibes. The move TO Image didn't go so well sadly, but there was definitely still some killer art - definitely worth checking it out if you can get your hands on it imho

[@TheChrisHype]

Anyone else think that the plot for ANT kinda sounds like Nickelodeon's "Doug" if it were written by Frank Miller?

[@JerkComic]

Now I need to call up Jason Yungbluth and pitch him this series... I can TOTALLY see that. There's no form of sexual assault on Hanna though, so someone would have had to write it with Frank and be like, NO! We're not putting any of THAT in the book Frank. Stop it. You're weird and no one gets it and you need to knock it... are, are you drawing Hanna getting? Dang it Frank!!! [cue Doug music as Miller is chased around comically a la the opening Doug with Porkchop]

[@kevincruz7958]

Damn, all your pitches about Ant break my heart. There was so much potential in that premise that now I would like to write Ant respecting the creator's vision. I don't know but I love the premise so much I may do something similar myself.

[@JerkComic]

It's an awesome premise and I guess no one at Image wants plaything to do with that part of Ant so have at it, haha! I've read a LOT of comics but I can say I'd never read anything quite like it. It's a real shame it derailed so quickly as I think there was a VAST amount of untapped potential and I'd personally love to have seen where it would be at today had he stayed with Arcana. Seemed all downhill from there sadly... Thanks for checking this out. Means a lot that people actually watch and enjoy these videos I produce and takign the time to leave a comment seriously helps out the channel more than you know - so thanks again!

[@kevincruz7958]

@@JerkComic you provide with a lot of info that helps me grow as a writer. I'm watching the Pat Mills interview by short bursts. It's long but the guy spits truths like it's nothing to him. It's the kind of person i would listen for hours. I'll even take up the challenge of making a short story and showing it to 12 year olds. Cause his right, children don't judge, they just like something or not.

[@ComicBookCovers]

Not only is there a Cupullo influence, I swear one of the panels you showed was sorta almost like an example from a Cupullo Drawing Board article in Wizard.

[@JerkComic]

I wouldn't doubt it. He draws a lot of homages and what I think people would consider swipes in a lot of cases. I don't mind that much, but some people take offense. I saw it a few times going through his stuff, but man his work on Dirty Bones especially where you can see the page that's the scene from True Lies is so danged good I don't really care, haha. Wish he was still working as his line work alone would probably make him a heck of an inker

[@baileymoore7779]

Love your channel man. Glad I found it.

[@JerkComic]

I'm glad you found it and enjoy it as well! I really appreciate you taking the time to not only check this out, but leave a comment as well btw. It means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos I spend so long on and it helps out the channel more than you know - so thanks again!

[@edaniels240]

When I picked up Ant #12, I was wondering what was going on and they explained what was going down at the end of the issue

[@JerkComic]

I couldn't imagine anyone picking up that last issue having not read the last 11 issues, especially since it had been like that many years since it had been on the stands, haha. Looks like I was wrong! I still don't know why Larsen harped on the problems with Gully in the back though... kinda, doesn't sit right with me.

[@jonathansoko1085]

Mario reminds me alot of myself, all the talent in the world but surrounded by people that didnt exactly have the best influence on me and that led me to destroy major opportunities'. I feel that. In the end, im also my worst enemy, too bad we always learn that later.

[@JerkComic]

This is true in a lot of ways, but I think even Mario would admit that it wasn't just the people around him. It was a general point in his life where the ish was hitting the fan and a conflation of reasons led to his eventual downfall. I still hold out hope he's able to dig himself out of the hole that he ended up in, as he's an incredibly talented guy and I personally want to see a LOT more of his stuff before it's all said and done! He's an interesting guy and I can't wait to share the interview I just completed with you all to fill in the gaps from this one. Thanks again for checking this out, really means a lot and I can't tell you how much it means for you to leave comments - helps out a ton and means the world to know people are actually watching these videos I produce!

[@bozcomics]

Man, this is so tragic. If the whole “the superhero is just the fantasy of a struggling little girl, living day to day” were pitched today, I think it would be a huge indie success.

[@JerkComic]

I think it would be a show in a heartbeat. This checks ALL the boxes man. It is still such a cool and interesting concept. Yeah the execution was a little wobbly, but such an engaging and cool concept. I don't particularly care what happens with Ant these days since Larsen isn't interested one iota in that angle of the character. Seems a real shame to me as he could have run with that ball imho. But what do I know? I'm just a jerk with a KZbin channel and that dude RAN Image, haha! Thanks so much for checking this out, hope you enjoyed. I really appreciate you not only taking the time to check this out, but leave a comment btw. Means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos I make and upload and it seriously helps out the channel - so thanks again!

[@bozcomics]

@@JerkComic No problem, man. I really love your “incident” videos, especially. Keep up the good work!

[@JerkComic]

@@bozcomics They've quickly become my favorite to work on. They let me go as broad as I want and then drop down to a thimble point of information at one point. I like the approach a lot and I'm really excited people didn't just see the run time and well, run away, haha! Really appreciate it again - means a lot and seriously does help out the channel a lot.

[@The.Spice.Must.Flovv.]

I recently followed Mario of Facebook , he’s very active on there and is STILL drawing and grinding , he’s also seemed to have gotten his life together a bit more and is sober .

[@JerkComic]

Yeah he's got an interview dropping soon - we've actually teamed up and I'm trying to help promote him and get more of his work out there. He recently did a cover for Kirkham's Boss KS and a few indie covers and he's doing a bunch of commissions so hoping he gets back into fighting shape and we see a book out of him before too long!

[@jsalsa2369]

AWESOME backstory on the Ant series. thanks for sharing, cant wait for the next one.

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much! I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to check out this monster but leave such a kind comment. I know these aren't short so I really appreciate you leaving a comment when you were done and I'm elated to hear you enjoyed this one! It was a strange and sad story, but I hope it helps to inspire some and perhaps we even see more interest and Gully pops back up and makes the ultimate comeback! Either way, I really appreciate you taking the time to check this out and leave such a kind comment. Helps out the channel and means the world to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these uploads!

[@jsalsa2369]

@@JerkComic I just purchased a tee to show my support. Thanks again.

[@JerkComic]

@@jsalsa2369 Thank you so much! That means the world and it really helps out the channel. I seriously appreciate it. And if you want EVEN more content and stuff from me make sure to check out the Patreon page with uncut interviews and tons of behind the scenes stuff as well as added info and stuff. I've been seriously blessed to work with some of the nicest and most generous designers and think the shirts turned out pretty danged well! Make sure to hit me with a pic when it shows, love seeing them in the wild!

[@eugenealejandro1003]

Hi JerkComic. I'm a huge fan of your video content, and I just watched/saw this video recently. I actually used to be Facebook friends with Mario Gully many years ago as early as 2014 if I myself remember correctly, but then I unfriended him because of the whole fiasco with the Indiegogo sketchbook since my dad was the one who selected a reward for me since I didn't have my own debit card yet at the time. I'm still very upset that Mario Gully not giving the rewards as promised, but I don't deny that he's still a very talented artist, and I'm still interested in reading the trade paperback collection of his early Image Comics run, as well as the brand new run by Erik Larsen of Ant whenever I can do so.

[@JerkComic]

I don't know if you checked out the interview that I did with Mario after this but I legit bet if you hit him up on Facebook respectfully like this - you could get something cool. He hit a rough patch but he's finally drawing again and we actually talk about the sketchbook and stuff in the interview as I wanted to get that out there and dealt with. That's super cool you're into his stuff enough that you don't hold a grudge bad enough you can't enjoy his stuff. Ant really was a great series, at least that first Arcana run imo.

[@peterorchardstudios]

I love these videos! Great work!

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much! I seriously love doing these and I'm stoked you all are enjoying these more long form videos. I can't thank you enough for checking all these out and takign the time to leave comments btw. It seriously means a lot and helps out the channel more than you know!

[@gboy1973]

I had the vol.1 first 4 issues... The Ant was a good read and the art was great! Awesome video btw! :)

[@JerkComic]

So did I! Loved that first volume. They were all stolen from me, but one day I'll pick them all back up. Great series. Really appreciate the kind words as well as you taking the time to check out this monster. I know it wasn't short and I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to watch this, but leave a comment when you were done. Means a lot to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos that I make and it seriously helps out the channel - so thanks again!

[@bryanrickard7712]

He should crowdfund an Ant reboot and do what he wants

[@JerkComic]

Well if he owned her anymore that might be a way to go... doubt people who didn't get their sketchbooks would be willing to back him on a crowdsourcing campaign at this point though honestly. This was just a sad one all around for me.

[@Ronnyjkd21]

Thank you for doing this!

[@JerkComic]

Thank YOU for checking it out! I seriously can't thank you enough for not only watching this monster, but leaving a comment when you were done! It not only helps out the channel more than you know, but it really means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos I produce - thanks again!

[@Lanier2369]

That dirty bones have Omaha the cat dancer in it? Oyyy. Lol

[@JerkComic]

Holy sweet mother of all that is unholy! Someone who knows who Omaha the Cat Dancer is!?! You sir get the gold star of the day! I wish I could get away with doing a video on Omaha. It would either be taken down in about 20 seconds or would be one giant blur bar though, haha! Amazing eye btw. Did you notice it was Omaha as Jamie Lee Curtis in True Lies? So freaking weird. Gully is notorious for cribbing shots and doing homages and that I think was one of my favorites, haha Thanks so much for checking this out btw. I hope you enjoyed. Either way, I seriously appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment. It helps out the channel a ton and I love it when people drop little nuggets like this because I ALMOST mentioned it, but then I was like, no one is going to remember Omaha the Cat Dancer man. Way to prove me wrong and restore my faith in man for a while, lmao!

[@Lanier2369]

@@JerkComic hey, I know more about comics then I think is healthy. Lol. It's definitely fun to look at all the history of comics besides the big two, tho I have to admit that I still like stuff from the big two, tho not more modern stuff. I never put the connection between Omaha and the Jamie Lee character. I'll have to watch it again with that in mind because your right. And I don't even think you would get past the title if you did do a Omaha video. Lol

[@polaris_draws]

Man this is a really interesting documentary! Gulley is certaintly very 90's as an artist, you can see the Campbell and McFarlane influence on his work, but it's still damn impressive! I think it is a bit weird having the Power fantasy of a young girl be so sexualised, though you could make that work, and it's still a real interesting project. You know, this is not that dissimilar to Joe the Barbarian, and several other Grant Morrison series. Having a level of reality that's impacted by a higher level of reality, a comic being drawn by a artist, a screen writer interacting with his protagonist... granted there's generaly more back on forward with Morrison's writing, but they've won multiple Eisners with that kind of writing, there's a critically acclaimed version of the original; "Ant is a power fantasy OC for a young girl with a troubled life" to be made. I'd read it.

[@JerkComic]

He wears his influences on his sleeve for sure, but you can also see him kind of growing and developing as he moves along. That Treasure Island stuff for Marvel was really impressive imho. I think it's definitely "weird" and I know it turned a lot of people off, myself included, until I gave it a shot. As you said, there's been at least a few stories that deal with this type of meta reality and stuff, but there's usually that interaction or back and forth which simply didn't exist in Ant. I like the original series and I will forever remain salty that Image decided to so radically change Ant into just another run of the mill superheroine. I 100% agree that there's a REALLY good story to be told using the original premise and I for one hope the character sticks around long enough we get to read it. Because like you, I know I surely would.

[@peterorchardstudios]

Any chance we could get a deep dive on Turok? Feels like after 2 video game adaptations it should have gone further, such a cool concept

[@JerkComic]

Man, you keep hitting me with the hard ones! I seriously would love to go into Turok, the thing is - it's tied up in Acclaim/Valiant. I can track that about as far as the end of the original Acclaim, but as soon as things changed hands that second time... well, let's just say there's people writing BOOKS about how complicated that got. Most of the Valiant universe got parted up at one point, before being finally rescued from this weird limbo. Unfortunately, that took so freakin long and cost so much that all of the Dell Gold Key characters reverted back to their original owners and were no longer under the Valiant or Acclaim, etc banner. Some of them like Solar have been rebooted by guys like Dynamite but Turok was... well, it's the Rob Liefeld of Valiant releases. People legit HATE this book. Like, for no reason other than if you were a kid in the 90s and your parents kept your stuff from your room as a teenager. If you went through it, you would never have bought one, but you would find god knows how many copies of Turok #1 there, haha. It's like Frampton Comes alive, it just APPEARS somehow. The first game did okay, but that second one - woof. Man, it went over like a lead pipe and with the rights being totally over anyone's head and then going back to whoever owns them (guessing it's someone from the Dell or Gold Key staff or company but could be a creator who bought it back I don't HONESTLY know). I would not hold my breath to see anything happen with Turok any time soon. I personally love the concept, but I think it was better done with Xenozoic Tales aka Cadillacs and Dinosaurs. If I ever come up on anything cool I'll definitely talk more about what fans have to legit refer to as "Turok the Dinosaur Coaster" because they use the book as a beer coaster to protect their tables.

[@peterorchardstudios]

Lol, well no need to do a video now. Thanks for the reply! Keep up the awesome content!

[@cliffwoodbury5319]

If he comes back he should do a reboot and take the time to stack issues so their is no breaks in the issues.

[@JerkComic]

He can't. He doesn't own Ant anymore, that's ALL Erik Larsen now. IF he does come back he'll have to do it on the back of another all new creation, or something like Dirty Bones that he still owns unfortunately.

[@cliffwoodbury5319]

@@JerkComic it is unfortunate because the character is an amazing character with so much untapped potential.

[@jasonhernandez9146]

Life sometimes doesn't end neatly, it doesn't have a bow on it, hence this story shares the human condition, thank you for telling it.

[@JerkComic]

It really doesn't. But Mario is a super inspirational story imo and I really felt like it was a story that needed to be shared. I'm happy to call Mario a friend and be playing a role in him getting back out there and finally doing some work again. He's super talented and I for one hope we haven't seen the last of him... in fact I know we haven't. Keep an eye on the channel for some exciting Mario Gully news in fact!

[@adriangonzalez3600]

@JerkComic takes me back to the days of talking about superhero stuff at recess, but like the kid grew up with a PhD worth of knowledge on the subject without losing any of the enthusiasm and glee that made those talks so fun to begin with

[@JerkComic]

This is the kind of comment I live to read. Thank you so much. This is legit WHY I do this channel. I am that hyperactive kid who was always spouting off about comics and getting to share this stuff with you all in these videos has been one of the coolest things I've done in my entire life! I can't thank you enough for not only taking the time to check this out, but leaving a comment as well. It seriously helps out the channel a ton and it means the world to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos that I make - so thank you again and again for not only watching but leaving such kind words. Means the world.

[@aspetty]

Honestly I'd love to see you do an Erick Larson retrospective.

[@JerkComic]

I'll get around to Larsen eventually just need to find the right way to approach it

[@aspetty]

@@JerkComic aside from Lee and more recently Valentino he's the founder I have the most respect for

[@Dynamode8]

Awesome coverage, loved Ant back in the day though a shame what happened. I admire Gully's grind/ commitment, and not compromising his convictions. But his unwillingness to at least negotiate on some level is pretty self-destructive. I mean Larsen is no saint either, I find some of his intentions questionable too. I can only wish Gully luck now, thanks again.

[@JerkComic]

I think the one time he DID give, it destroyed Ant and he kind of never bounced back from that. I've talked to him since the release of this and I'm hoping we can work out an interview as he's still open to it. He has an incredible work ethic and I took a lot to positive stuff away from this. I think Image kind of had it out for him, and they did nothing to help him out when he needed it the most. Larsen's motives in that case were unquestionably suspect, but Gully was obviously just loosing it and sold Ant to him at his insistence. It's a sad story but I still hold out hope we see Gully pop back up in something somewhere someday as man he has some skills! There's no reason he shouldn't be doing like variant covers or something at least for someone, haha! Thanks so much for checking this out, it means a lot that you not only took the time to watch this monster, but leave a comment when you were done. It seriously helps out the channel more than you know, but more than that - it puts a big old smile on this jerk's face to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos - so thank you again!

[@Dynamode8]

@@JerkComic Most welcome, this video has very insightful outlook on Gully. Dude just had so much bad luck, I hope it turns around for him.

[@JerkComic]

@@Dynamode8 Amen to this! I hope he does the interview so I can talk to him about it all. I'd be interested to see his outlook and disposition today and how he feels looking back and how hard he fought. Would be a shame if it all ended up being for nought.

[@arindam_sen]

I'm really amazed by Gully's persistence. What a great story, which I would've never heard about if not for this channel. For a story request, I would really like if you did a similar deep dive on Torpedo. A property with so much BTS drama, I believe it would make for some riveting content especially with the creators involved like Will Eisner, Alex Toth, Jordi Bernet and Enrique Abuli.

[@JerkComic]

Was Torpedo ever translated into English? I absolutely adore Toth and Eisner but I remember not being able to read this as it had only been translated from Spanish into like French and I think German?

[@arindam_sen]

@@JerkComic oh yes! IDW came out with The Complete Torpedo collection which I think had a total of 5 volumes. Translated by Jimmy Palmiotti.

[@JerkComic]

@@arindam_sen sweet ginger snaps man! IDW ALWAYS killing it! I had stopped looking years back as it wasn't in English, now I gotta get on this! Do you own the collections? Is there good or ANY ancillary material? Now you got me all twitterpated

[@JerkComic]

@@arindam_sen guess it doesn't matter. Just looked. They're out of print. Have been been years and go for a hundred bucks a volume. Crap

[@arindam_sen]

@@JerkComic Unfortunately I do not have them and they're notoriously difficult to come by at a decent price :(

[@benfromthebunker9621]

I have been a huge Ant fan for years. I even have an Ant statue. I hope that Gully can eventually get Dirty Bones off the ground. He posted about it a few days ago on Facebook. I really wish Larsen would have gotten someone else to draw Ant. He really doesn't understand the urban style that Gully had. I also wish that they went back to more of the original miniseries.

[@geeky1818]

I’ve always wondered what happened with the Ant!

[@wichitarichard]

Issue 12 came out a few weeks ago (even went into a second print) and the 1st of the new series comes out next week (at the time of this comment.)

[@NavySharkz]

@@wichitarichard Kool. I'm going to have to check it out.

[@JerkComic]

A LOT of people actually did. Larsen was just sitting with her in his back pocket. I've no clue why he waited this long to follow up, but it was a painful issue to say the least and so weird to not only see no Mario Gully on Ant, but the same layouts that led to this public dispute actually turned into a comic like a decade later! Truth truly is stranger than fiction sometimes, haha.

[@JerkComic]

And issue 12 and Issue 1 are supposed to be completely unrelated. I still haven't QUITE figured out why Larsen put this one out honestly. Seems weird on so many levels. But hey, what do I know? I'm just a jerk with a comic channel and he's been writing a successful comic for nearly as long as I've been reading!

[@JerkComic]

If you want to get into Ant that is not the issue to do it. It was the issue that was "supposed" to tie up all the loose ends of Volumes 1 and 2. I guesssss it does, but really painfully, the art is drab and just plain weird in points and the story jumps around so much worse than ANYTHING Gully or O'Reilly or any of them ever did it's really kinda sad and annoying. Ruined Ant for no reason imho. I wish Kirkman had been running Image when Gully came around - now THAT would have been something!

[@mzelster]

keep em coming love the backstories. my friend is friends with gully and he said he was going through things and this was like hitting the lotto and he did not know how to deal with this new found fame

[@JerkComic]

That's kind of the feeling I got... he just fell into something and then had no clue how to handle it. It's a real shame his life imploded on him as I think this series had some serious potential. I've talked to Gully a few times, finally got his number and hoping he'll still come on the channel to do an interview. Seriously appreciate you checking this out btw. I know it wasn't short and the fact you not only watched it but took time to leave a comment when you were done means a lot. Thanks again can't tell you how much it means or how much it helps out the channel - and you keep watching 'em and I'll keep making 'em!

[@mzelster]

@@JerkComic oh man this was worth watching, dont care how long lol. i was designing while listening to it. it is sad though and i don know that larsen does like semi porn stuff too so that could have been the reason the change. thanks for the reply. i rely love the channel, i love the behind the scenes things.

[@agoodun]

This was a fascinating watch. Thanks 😊I love Ant

[@JerkComic]

I'm so happy you liked it! Especially as an Ant fan. There aren't a TON of us out there, but it seems most of us are pretty die hard about it haha. I always wondered what had happened and when someone brought it up in the comment section, I was like - man I wonder... and then a few months later well, THIS happened. Hope it helped fill in some gaps and tell the tale of Ant as well as Gully - I know it was a wild ride learning about it all. Thanks again so much for checking this out and especially for taking the time to leave a comment when you were done. It means a lot to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I put up and it helps out the channel immensely - so thanks again!

[@agoodun]

@@JerkComic ya no problem. Great content keep it coming. I had no idea about Mario or the story behind Ant. Now i do. :)

[@fordmadoxfraud]

fwiw I kind of disagree that Guly's apology (1:11:30) is really owning the issue #8 problem. "I feel like I got side tracked by what will be more widely accepted from comic book fans" is really just an attempt to displace blame onto comics audiences. No one forced Guly to draw those pictures, or publish them in his book. I guess you could read "I feel like I got side tracked by what will be more widely accepted from comic book fans" as an admission that he's been trying to pander to an imaginary reader and losing focus on the core of the book, but I read it more as a kind of juvenile "Even though it's what you guys really want, I guess I'll go back to doing the noble thing from now on".

[@JerkComic]

I get what you're saying, and with written words especially, this is coming down to complete interpretation of intent and even inflection, which I think could play heavily into accurately interpreting things. For my part, here's how I saw it. Gully wasn't apologizing so much for the nudity or the cursing, so much as how he had kind of "lost sigh" of the story and other character aspects that had driven the book. This in my own interpretation of all my readings and months of research, I took, to refer to his cow towing to Larsen and compromising on the books premise to begin with. However, by the time he realized the price of his concession for entrance to Image making Ant more "mainstream" by making Ant the main character etc, it was far too late for him to do anything about it. So, not what you guys, but I think read more like, what Larsen SAID you guys wanted. Again, totally MY interpretation, and I completely see what you're saying. I even actually took it that way until I read more interviews, dug through complete posts rather than snippets and talked to Gully a little myself. Thanks so much for checking this out btw. Means a lot. I hope you enjoyed and I seriously appreciate you taking the time to leave such an intelligent and contemplative comment. I love interacting with you all and learning about how you guys see stuff and I learn so much from the comment sections - not to mention it helps out the channel a TON. Thanks again for checking this out, I hope you enjoyed, and I seriously appreciate you leaving such a thoughtful comment, means a lot to know people are watching these and agree or disagree, hopefully taking something away from them!

[@edaniels240]

Wait a min, Mario did 10th Muse? Last I remember I have an issue of 10th Muse with Rena Sable Mero-Lesnar on the cover

[@JerkComic]

He did either a pinup or a cover. It was included in the 10th Muse Cover Gallery edition special.

[@mikeyjordan420]

Thanks Jerk!!!! I want to check out ant now.... You keep making these and I'll keep watching!!!!

[@JerkComic]

Thanks so much, you keep watching 'em and I'll keep making 'em, haha! I seriously appreciate you not only taking the to watch this monster, but to leave a comment when you were done! It means a lot to me to know people are actually watching these uploads and it helps out the channel immensely - so thanks again!

[@Dethand]

Rant about Ant. Well done.

[@JerkComic]

Glad you enjoyed, I know this was kinda long but it really is a super cool story imho. I really appreciate you not only taking the time to check this out but leave a comment when you were done. Not only does it help out the channel a ton but it means a lot to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I upload - so thanks again!

[@joshryan5748]

I used to work with Mario doing AC work

[@JerkComic]

That's awesome! I hate that he's had to do manual labor and stuff given how talented he is, but I respect the crap out of the fact he was willing to put in the work during the days to pay bills and then do art all night and stuff. Was awesome getting to share this story and then doing the interview with him after was even cooler. Thanks so much for checking this out btw, really appreciate it!

[@TheDjk300ComicGuy]

Good article and some things even I didn't know. I saw video on my feed so took a gander. I was on the Ant collecting for a long time. OMG was going to be in Vegas son or at SDCC. Went to his table and want there. Guy said come back in a few. Went back again and no Gully again. Did numerous time and just gave up. Like his art and was hoping to get a signature that day. No show.

[@JerkComic]

He was NOT treated well when he was at Image if that's when it was. If he was still back with his original publisher, that would be on Mario - probably smoking a bl*nt or drinking a beer somewhere, haha. He's a super cool and interesting guy - happy to call him my friend several years later. I've got a bunch of original art and signatures and stuff from him that he's just sent me because he's such a cool dude. Actually talking to him in the AM and doing a new interview to follow up and show off what he's been up to lately man. Thanks so much for taking the time to check this out btw, means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos and leaving a comment helps out the channel more than you know, so thanks again!

[@cobrakhan1284]

I only started reading ant recently. When it came out and when I saw it on the stands I never bothered because, far from what people say about the characters “attractive” aesthetic; I found her creepy, perhaps because of a mild phobia of creepy crawlers. Anyway, I loved the first volume. I really expected your typical superhero thing, but the story blew me away with something that was so unique and reminded me of stuff I used to read or watch in the 80s, where kids would escape the suffering of the real world by retreating to a fantasy one. Pans labyrinth is similar because it is not clear whether the fantasy is real or not, and I felt gully was doing something similar and interesting. With the last panel, of volume 1, I did find it a cop out and very abrupt. I didn’t have a problem for the story to go in that direction, however I think to tell a story that would lead to such a revelation you would need way more than 4 issues. So if that was his intention to tell the story in such a way I have no problem . Image however ruined the story and character. You can tell it’s image because adding spawn and savage dragon is just dumb and retarded. It’s typical shared universe garbage and was images attempt to copy marvel and DC. As if it wasn’t dumb enough to see such characters appear in invincible. I don’t understand why these characters can’t stand on their own. How does spawns universe have any correlation to Ant, or savage dragon or invincible ? With regards to gully’s apology, I think image should have apologised too, and possibly MacFarlane. I feel gully took the fall for a company that was obviously pressurising him to do the usual image comics cliches.

[@mj6775]

Great piece! On so many levels,O.M.G. /Mr Gully,is a very talented artist! Your peice on this story,I believe brings good insight to the profession of professionalism.

[@JerkComic]

Mario's story is one of the most interesting I've had the chance to cover on the channel. It was really interesting talking to him later and finding out how much of the outrage about Ant he actually helped cook up in order to boost sales. Didn't work out super well for him but thankfully it seems like he's finally breaking back into comics work bit by bit over the last few months and I personally hope we see a LOT more of him in the coming years

[@rockon8174]

1:30:15 Arcana was known to NOT pay artists and writers despite publishing and selling their work!

[@JerkComic]

I did not know that! I do know there was never any money problems between Arcana and Gully and that the only reason Gully left was because he wanted to have an Image book so freakin badly, which he regretted almost immediately. Was interesting getting to sit down and talk with him after doing this piece and fill in some of the small gaps and his reasoning behind a lot of stuff.

[@aaron6674]

Dude, are you saying he has the original artwork for the 24 page comic for Ant?

[@JerkComic]

An UNRELEASED 24 page prototype of Ant. And yes. Yes he does. Or at least he DID. I've seen the unedited pages from Issue 8 in collector hands and a few other rarities, but nothing from the prototype so I'm guessing he still has it, at least hoping he does. He was supposed to do an interview for the channel, hoping I can still get him on and I can ask him about it. But as far as I know, yeah he's got a fully unreleased prototype 22 or 24 page Ant story that's never seen the light of day.

[@rickytoddbotelho9555]

Like many artistic minded folks I think gully experienced artistic remorse. As though life and love of his hobby backfired. And took it's role on his subconscious.😃

[@JerkComic]

I think he was also dealing with some pretty severe depression, but yeah - when Image didn't protect him or help him at all he seems to have kind of 'broke' a little, ya know? Sucks. He did some crappy stuff, and he acted kind of a fool, but that's something that nearly every Image founding father has to admit to as well. I just hope Gully can pull it together enough to make some sort of come back. He's an amazing artist and I'd love to see him working in the industry in one form or another! Thanks so much for checking this monster out! I know ti wasn't short so I super appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment when you were done btw. Not only does it really help out the channel but it puts a big old smile on this jerk's face to know people are actually watching these videos! So thanks again.

[@soccer4life829]

I have a few issues of ant never really got in to it tho, but this story actually made it interesting for once.

[@JerkComic]

Haha, yeah random issues are NOT going to get you into Ant. I used to have a full run of the Arcana stuff but it was unfortunately stolen from me. I hope to get another set one day but I can't legitimize paying the second hand prices on Ebay right now, so I sufficed myself with this video I think, haha. I always loved the concept and wondered about who had made it and what became of the series. Glad I could make it more interesting for you! I seriously appreciate you taking the time to check this monster out in general. I know it wasn't short and I really appreciate that you took the time to leave a comment when you were done. Not only does it help out the channel a ton but it means the world to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I upload. Thanks again!

[@gwlankard1]

I'm wondering if this story spoke to you for the same reason "The Maxx" did. (It's been a while since I read the maxx but I remember a lot of it taking place in a fantasy world.

[@JerkComic]

There's definitely some similarities I hadn't ever considered. They're also both female protagonists and the hero angle is largely downplayed if not outright ignored for long stints. Plus the writing was all over the place and very nearly completely subjective haha. Wow. Never noticed that until you pointed this out!

[@rolandkatsuragi]

Man it seems unfortunate that despite his best efforts, Mario couldn't escape controversy. Hopefully with this renewed interest in Ant, Mario can get his act together again and produce more quality material. At least with Larsen in charge now, maybe Hannah can have a complete arc.

[@JerkComic]

I seriously hope that he can indeed cash in on the exposure from Ant getting relaunched by Larsen. While it's a shame we'll likely never see him on the title he created again, I really think he's better suited to stuff like Dirty Bones anyways. Really and truly, I kind of hope he did that book on spec and we see a new kickstarter or someone puts it out like on demand or something. He needs to get back on the horse and get stuff out there, he could make it. I get the feeling there might be some underlying and un-diagnosed mental health issues at work here though. His depression and bouts of explosive anger that I saw through out his social media and in archived posts make it clear he's not just your run of the mill ticked off guy. And his apologies are far to sincere to be just made up crap. I think he can't help himself and this has caused him no little amount of consternation through out his long road of recovery trying to get back into comics. He was SUPPOSED to have a Cave Woman book out through Amethyst who was going to print the sketchboook. Never happened. That last image of a Cave Woman is the one thing he did do, which ended up as a Variant cover on a later series. There's something going on there, no sketchbook, no Cave Woman, all these posts about him not finishing commissions... sounds like he might not be able to handle the pro lifestyle on his own without Tina or someone like her in his life and that's unfortunate as he seems to drive those people away with his behavior and actions in most cases. I'll keep my fingers crossed either way, super talented guy, built himself up from nothing and I can honestly say I wish him nothing but the best and would GLADLY buy a book with his name on it from the LCS!

[@chadkuffert]

Another great documentary! Thanks for making this!

[@JerkComic]

Wouldn't mean a thing without people like you to check them out! Patreon has really opened up the door to make these longer more in depth videos possible. Can't wait to see where the next year takes the channel as I get more backers and I can concentrate and really get in depth about this stuff! Thanks so much for checking this out and taking the time to leave a comment btw, means a lot to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos and it seriously helps out the channel a ton - so thanks again!

[@allhell138]

Erik complaining about that one panel is hilariously hypocritical in hindsight, if you’ve seen any of his recent porn shit in the Dragon …

[@JerkComic]

I haven't read Dragon in soooo long, but I've seen COVERS from Larsen that are as bad if not worse than this imho. I mean he had, and yes I know it was parody and for comedic value, but a kid in a BDSM outfit. Other Image publications were getting away with much more lewd behavior as well and I think that looking back at this whole thing it's pretty obvious that Larsen used this as a reason to back out of the proposed Ant work and it wasn't the actual "thing" that did it, if that makes sense. There was a lot of tension and I think Larson's mindset was that if he asked for it to be changed it should be, the fact of it needing to be changed being irrelevant to the fact he was telling an employee to do something and they weren't doing it. I'd love to know more of Larsen's thoughts on the subject but knowing Mario as well as I do and how things have maintained behind the scenes, I can honestly say that there's no bad blood on either side there and I don't want to dredge up unnecessary drama and BS. OMG is getting work back out there and looks to be poised to make something of a comeback this next year so lets all just keep out fingers crossed for that... and maybe not pick up the Larsen Ant to send a message while we're at it, lmao. God is that book terrible.

[@eddietowers5595]

comedian Tim Allen had one time been a drug runner, piloting a small prop plane going to and fro with drugs, until he got arrested, where he stood in front of a judge who suggested giving him a chance if he changed his life, almost prophesizing Tim's future. Look at Tim Allen, now. There's a time for being a dreg and/or ghetto and there's a time to think of your future for a better life, specially if you have any marketable talents to make such a dramatic difference.

[@JerkComic]

I think the difference is Allen was a little better armed with education and a more fostering environment when it came to his artistic expression. i get the feeling Gully didn't even really know he was good at art until he went to jail. That say's something , at least imho. Thanks so much for checking this out btw. I hope you enjoyed! It really means a lot that you not only took the time to watch this but leave a comment as well. It helps out the channel and it really puts a smile on my face to know people are actually watching these videos I upload - so thank you again!

[@pulsarstargrave256]

THANKS, I've seen the Ant character but I had no idea about MARIO GULLY and the story behind the character! I don't get it, before the dicey story went to press didn't the editors advise him there should have been a "Mature Readers" rating\warning on it or was this before Image used a ratings system? I prefer Gully's earlier style when it was a combo of Todd McFarlane and Vaughn Bode (or Wendy Pini?) it was more exciting than that "Capullo cribbing" he started doing! I hope Gully and Larsen can get together and tweak the first volume and reprint it in 1 or 2 Trade PBKs! It should be relatively easy with modern day software! But this time, no entourages allowed!

[@JerkComic]

1 - I think that anyone who knows anything about comics knows when they're seeing someone get tossed under the bus. That was TOTALLY the case with Gully. Heck yes editors should have said something if they thought it was going to be problematic, and when it did prove to be - they should have come to his aid. As well as Image. But they didn't. It's either proof they had it out for him, or he'd already ticked enough people off they weren't going to waste their breath defending him. Guess it doesn't really matter which, sad thing to see either way imho. 2 - That's a great way of describing it and I think Bode plays a pretty big role in there with McFarlane, and it with Omaha the Cat Dancer showing up in Dirty Bones it wouldn't surprise me to know it was a Bode influence, especially given the subject matter Gully was into. Can totally see some Pini in there as well. I like where he went, I think he's incredibly talented, and whatever he does he usually does pretty well. I would just like to see him actually doing work. I don't care if it's variant covers or what, but you'd think someone would be interested in hiring him for something. 3 - Do not hold your breath. I don't think Larsen has any interest in trying to mend that bridge. I know he was a fan at one point, but when Gully lost it on him in public well, I think he kind of signed his death warrant as far as his career went. While Larsen might not have been in the right, taking to the public social media monster and tossing fuel on a fire is not the way to handle things. I doubt we see that first Arcana volume released any time soon. We might see a remastered version of Vol 2 with Image where Larsen can spin it into a sort of sell for his new series or off of his new series, but he's openly shared how much he dislikes the first volume all in all. He loved the Ant character and saw potential in her, but didn't like the book so I doubt he puts it out. He got asked about it in like 3 or so interviews I read and dodged all 3 times trying to not talk about how he and Gully definitely still aren't on speaking terms. Otherwise he would have gotten a new Gully cover for issue 12 rather than a pinup cover preview from a decade prior that Gully had already done. Thanks so much for checking this out and taking the time to leave a comment as always. not only does it really help out the channel but it means the world to me to know people are watching and enjoying these videos - so thank you again!

[@pulsarstargrave256]

@@JerkComic Your mentioning "Omaha" certainly explains "Dirty Doggs" and the possible influence of REED WALLER but what makes me suspect McFarlane and Bode was much of the body language and how Gully used color! What surprises me is how did Gully learn about Vaughn Bode? I'm a little older and I hadn't heard of Bode before The Comics Journal published that tabloid size paperback special containing an article about the artist! Once I saw his work I was blown away by his art and could see the huge shadow of influence he cast on everyone from possibly Barry W. Smith to Wendy Pini; from Berkeley Breathed (Bloom County) to Reed Waller but for Gully, was it from that book alone or has Bode's art appeared in other collections of which I am unaware?

[@tnperkins4art]

Man! That was quite something!

[@JerkComic]

Thanks as always man. This was incredibly interesting to work on and I think it's one of the better structured and compelling pieces I've managed to accomplish. Hope if OMG sees it he takes the good away from it as I really did mean this as a compliment to him and hope it turned some people who wouldn't know about him or the series on to it and maybe we see more of the guy in the future god willing!

[@mikedolan6176]

Great vid, as always. More like a legit documentary. Awesome

[@JerkComic]

This is where I want to head with the channel. Take a subject and then just do a full complete and utter deep dive. Might not always be able to keep it to a single 2 hour piece, but I don't want another Maxx situation where I finish half of something and then have to go back. I think this is more what people would like to see from the channel as dedicated viewers and I'll just be doing the short 30-40 minute pieces to draw in casual viewers and people who might be interested but don't want to toss 2 hours at a maybe on KZbin you know? Thank you as always for the support my friend, means the world! Hope you and the family are doing well, tell the little ones their Uncle Jerk says hey!

[@mikedolan6176]

@@JerkComic I will do! Keep on keepin on my friend. The pics will come soon. Lovin my new hoodie.

[@toomieornot2me436]

Comics doesn't just break your heart, it shatters it. I sort of remember this drama playing out at the time. Having -- SOME -- slight dealings/interactions with both O'Reilly and Larsen, O'Reilly is a stand up dude. Larsen, he's Larsen. Any hypocrisy on the "porn" panel stuff there with Larsen? He pretty much did exactly what Gully did in Savage Dragon not only for interiors, but on his covers, too. Maybe that was a joke/nod? Leave it at that. The problem is, the "deals" from what I've heard/been offered, you're still going to be working another job. Larsen couldn't even make a living at Image if he wasn't an owner. If you don't sell over 5,000 books at Image you're basically working for free. Especially if you're having to split that $ with a team. Arcana, they're an EXTREMEY (a page some places) small fee up front and then you're basically drawing a graphic novel and get a percentage. Great if it sells, and not so if it doesn't. Great stuff here on this story.

[@JerkComic]

First off thanks so much for chceking this out! Second, lord ain't that the truth! The more I learn about this industry the more I dsocver some of the SADDEST stories you're likely to ever come across. I tried to take some good away from this one, but man I just feel bad for Gully in a lot of ways. I KNOW that if you're selling less than 8k you're not making money to live on, that's why I brought up when the book dipped to the 5k mark, which is the usual cutout for independeent guyswho are doing smaller runs and have less overhead. If they can't make it work, no way someone having to shill out to Image and a team is going to make it work. I think the timing with Tina leaving and Gully being left to his own devices was disastrous, I just hope he can recover from it all someday and we get some new work. re Larsen's work: I think it's just evidence Image didn't care about him or his book and was totally willing to toss him under the bus. They have legals teams and a whole department set up to deal with that kind of thing. I think it's the same reason Gully was asked to step away from the group when he attended convention or made appearances for Image and there were photo ops and I'll kind of leave it at that. He managed to piss a lot of people off, he pulled some nasty stunts, but I think it was because he was genuinely hurt and confused that Larsen didn't have his back. And that's sad.

[@toomieornot2me436]

Thanks for the response. I ordered an Ant trade (Arcana). I guess you can't judge a book by its cover. Sounds deeper than I would have ever imagined. Looking forward to the next vid.

[@marvelpg]

shame such a talent had such a difficult road...great piece and the Batman would be proud of your detective skills to dig into this.

[@JerkComic]

Oh man, now that's some high praise, haha! I really appreciate you not only checking this out, but taking time to leave a comment when you were done. So happy you enjoyed and I seriously appreciate it. Helps out the channel a ton and it's super nice to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I put out.

[@MichaelFitzTroyTV]

Great video. I always wondered why he would lest Ant go for a measly 5 grand.

[@JerkComic]

Do you have a concrete source on that number? I've seen anything from 5 to 25k but I couldn't pin down a legit number for this video which was super annoying. I know it was a private sale though so I'm not entirely sure how the details would be out there unless either Gully or Larsen shared them directly? Thanks so much for checking this out btw, I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to make it through this monster, but leave a comment when you were finished. Not only does it help out the channel a ton, but it means the world to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these uploads - so thanks again!

[@gkirkpatrick1004]

Very informative! Last I recall seeing OMGs name was a few years ago in FB. He had made several rather bizarre, if not borderline nutty comments about other creators like Lirby and McFarlane. It was sad. Hopefully he finds peace in his life.

[@JerkComic]

Amen to this. I seriously wish him all the best. I didn't see any of these crazy posts, but a few people have brought up him and the Illuminati and a few other things...sad. Sounds like he might have some underlying mental health issues, which given his background I think likely would have gone un-diagnosed and might explain a lot. Really sad story imho. I hope he not only finds some peace, but I hope he gets stuff sorted - I'd still love to see that Gully comeback book! Thanks so much for checking this out, I know it wasn't short and I seriously appreciate you not only watching this monster - but taking the time to leave a comment when you were done! Not only does it help out the channel a ton but it means the world to me to know people are actually watching and enjoying these silly videos I make!

[@josephadorno92]

The "scandal" over issue 8 seems like people at Image were making mountains out of molehills and I find it's not impossible to think there were people who just wanted Gully out of there, because at the time, "Ant" was more popular than Invincible, Noble Causes, Wildguard and Firebreather - not because of anything about the storylines, but the book had the gritty look associated with classic Image Comics the other books didn't have; perhaps not too coincidentally, the end of the Image run is around the same time Larsen steps down as publisher of Image and the title is given to Eric Stephenson, which means Gully's strongest ally had less say in things.

[@achasonc]

So educational... the more you know!

[@JerkComic]

Or as some would say, Knowing is half the battle! GI Jerk, a real comic book zero, hahahaha. Hope you enjoyed. This was out of my wheelhouse. I usually steer clear of books of this nature but man, I REALLY liked that first volume and the story is simply TOO interesting not to share with you all. This is where I want to move the channel as well. Larger more detailed in depth looks at careers centering on something or somethings that occur and have become misinterpreted and mythic legend. Also putting a LOT more TLC into editing and hope that it shows and is a little easier on the eyes as I figure out the new audio recording rig. Think I've got it sorted and learned my lesson this last one, but we shall see! Thanks as always for the support brother - means a lot, but hey, what would the world be without Super Chason?! Except for a little sadder and duller that is...

[@ginofrancejr555]

Dirty bones should have been published it should have been his comeback book

[@JerkComic]

It's a real shame it didn't meet it's goal. I keep hoping he did that book on spec like he did with the first Ant and we get to see both of them in a collection of his stuff one day. Better yet, he makes a comeback and we finally get this series now! I just want Gully to sort stuff out and get back in the game. He's super talented and it's a real shame how this all went down imho. Thanks so much for checking this monster out and especially for taking the time to leave a comment btw. Means a lot and I super appreciate knowing people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I upload.

[@BatFan1]

Im surprised someone at Zenescope didnt reach out to Mario (or vice versa) it seems like a match made in heaven IMO, but I guess he burned so many bridges in the industry, or is just not reliable. i never got into Ant but you could tell the guy had the talent to become , maybe not a mega star, but someone who would get steady work doing covers and maybe a project here and there.

[@JerkComic]

He definitely has the chops to be a variant cover guy easily if he could get an in and get the stuff done. It sounds like the farther he got into his career the more difficult it was for him to hit deadlines after his falling out with Marvel especially, and Gully has said while at Marvel he took deadlines TOO seriously and often wouldn't do solid enough work - though I think his Marvel work looks MORE than passable. He had a lot of potential, but it seems like he's his own worst enemy and kind of made sure his career was dead and gone once he lost Ant. I get the feeling he's struggling with some mental health issues considering his outbursts and yet completely sincere apologies and attempts to make amends I just hope we see more from this guy in the future as I really do think he's got the talent to make it and his story is incredibly inspirational in so many ways! Thanks so much for checking this out, hope you enjoyed. I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to check this out, but also to leave a comment when you were done. It means a lot and it helps out the channel a ton - so thanks again!

[@rodolfotheg]

Great stuff! So much drama!

[@JerkComic]

Sometimes the behind the scenes stories are as good if not better than the books... I love Ant, but THIS, this was a crazy story no doubt haha. Thanks so much for checking this out btw. I know it wasn't short and I seriously appreciate you not only taking the time to watch it, but leave a comment when you were done. It means a lot to know people are actually watching these videos I upload, and it helps out the channel more than you know - so thanks again!

[@rodolfotheg]

@@JerkComic Not a problem. My pleasure.

[@ZanzibarEcho]

How do say this and keep it short?..dunno but here goes...most comic readers have or had had the budding potential to create or dream a character of their own and into that character they pour...themselves so no matter what the setting what the appearance they in truth are an extension of their creator what follows is the dream of that creation rubbing shoulders with all the heroes that inspired the loyal reader to flourish their talent . In this Gully one of the fortunate to have seen this dream realised . But what was not expected was the sacrifice from image the very foundation asked for in which to achieve that other dream of being amongst people that had played a part in that inspiration . one imagines that tho there will be some things asked to be altered the essential aspects ( those aspects being the core identity of the creator) will of always remained true and to come to realise that changes suddenly make one feel that they don't recognize their character anymore that what was once their extension is something else it must be like not having control over ones life anymore all of a sudden those child dreams of hero worship feel tainted somehow ..that character one created is you it will always be you and one will always fight for to save what is essentially what they poured their soul into . I feel sad for the Gully's of this particular world ..it's almost hypocritical that the whole point of image comics was to have complete control of their creations but for the Gully's of this world that freedom was lesser than the founders applied to themselves ..I think had he of known hed of stayed happily at arcana where the truth if his story was being told ..sometimes the peak of one's life ambition does no need to find the highest mountain to reach heights dreamed of so many years ago....

[@RandySiplon]

Love your videos, bro!

[@JerkComic]

Love your comments man, haha! Seriously though, thanks so much for taking the time to check this monster out and then leave a comment. I know it wasn't short and I seriously appreciate it. It helps out the channel more than you know, plus it really puts a smile on my face to know people are actually watching and enjoying these videos I upload - so thanks again!