The disc is a quirky collection of raw interview footage, part of a larger documentary
project that Henn is working on. The comic creator set out to document the works
and views of "some of the best creative forces in independent and
self-publishing."
While that documentary isn't ready for release yet, "Mainstream
Raw" is.
The disc is, quite simply, about two hours worth of interviews presented as
is. There's been no cutting for narrative or context, as you would expect in a
documentary. Instead, it's just the footage from beginning to end, without
edits.
While this may not sound terrible exciting to those of you who are waiting
with baited breath for the two-disc "Daredevil" special collectors
edition, the disc turns out to be very intriguing for those interested in comic
creators like Frank Miller, Joe Quesada, Colleen Doran, Matt Wagner, etc.
You will learn the secret origin of Quesada as he retells his career starting
from his very first inquiry at Valiant comics which, led to his current position
as editor in chief of Marvel.
You will learn about Matt Wagner's stalker who wanted the artist to meet him
and claim their rightful place as the kings of the new Camelot.
You will hear Colleen Doran's horror stories in a tearful interview about her
experiences in the business.
You want opinions? Well, you get Frank Miller! Twice! Miller talks candidly
in an interview about censorship and how the government can kill the comics
industry. Then Henn presents Miller's keynote address from the Harvey Awards,
where he literally rips Wizard Magazine to shreds.
All in all, "Mainstream Raw" contains some fascinating footage. You'll find an
online preview by clicking
here.
If you want to see the DVD in your comic stores, start bugging your retailer
now as its available in the latest Diamond catalog. Or, you can order it directly
from Henn at his Timespell.com
website. Admittedly the $29.95 seems like a bit much for a DVD that doesn't even
have a proper menu, but it is interesting viewing none-the-less.