Originally Posted by
AngryComicBookNerd
There's no way I'm expecting Image to flat out identify the next big thing at the drop of a hat. (I didn't mean to single out Erik either if I did, that's not fair, I'm sorry for that) But as a fan, I'd like to think the next big thing is coming and I just want to know if Image is making it easier for that to happen. I don't understand the whole process myself, which is why I'm asking the questions and I'm getting a lot of answers which, more appreciative I cannot be.
So, not every pitched comic gets published. Although I'm not sure why not, if their success or failure has no effect on Image. But in Image's selection process for which comics to publish, what factor gets the higher ranking? Content or creator? Like, if there was only one more slot and you had 2 comics: a really great story by an unknown, or a so-so story by someone like Bendis (just for example purposes, I have nothing against Bendis). Which of those two does Image select? I'm guessing based on what I'm hearing here about this whole diamond market thing, that Image goes with the Bendis comic. It sells its respecible numbers and everyone is happy, the other one just falls off into obscurity, and we are treated to another solid 7.5 out of 10 comic that's kinda ok, has it's good moments, but I'm not marking my calendar for when the next issue drops.
Also, what exactly does Image do for the creators? There was mention of a flat fee, but what does that cover? I assume printing costs, office expenses, whatever it takes to put a book on a shelf. Is marketing part of that fee? Because if it is, and if everyone pays the same amount, then shouldn't every book be promoted equally? And if all Image does is print a book and put it on the shelf, then why couldn't the creator just do it themself seeing as how all the hustle and grind of self promotion is entirely the creator's burden either way?
My bottom line concern is, the way the system is set up now (and not just Image but comics in general), is it designed to help a new creator with a new vision succeed or is it just another obstacle in their path? As a fan, I only have so many pity purchases in me. And also, is the system feeding mediocrity by shining the light only on known creators and those unknown ones whos only option at making it is by creating a comic that resembles something that's already been done?