DnT SOULutions

Last weekend, I was able to meet two Marvel greats Jim Lee and Greg Pak. Jim Lee was a comic book artist for X-men during my childhood days and is now a Creative Director for DC’s online JLA game. Greg Pak is a writer/filmaker for Planet Hulk, World War Hulk, Magneto Testament, etc.

I’ve always been a Jim Lee fan since I was a kid and only recently was I able to get a picture of him (and signed my Wolverine Mighty Mugg) at SD Comic Con. He’s one of the best comic book artists in my opinion.

As for Greg Pak, I only became a big fan of his after reading Planet Hulk (introduced by my good friend Patricio). In the past, I’ve always seen the Hulk as a big, angry, dumb, green character of Marvel. Greg Pak definitely brought a whole new perspective on how the Hulk is portrayed. The Green Monster is now smarter, stronger, and more of a hero. He still has anger issues but that’s totally understandable because that’s where he gets his strength. Since then, I’ve been wanting to get an autograph and picture of Greg Pak.

That opportunity came when I was able to join a live panel between Jim Lee and Greg Pak at the San Diego Asian Film Festival. The discussion was on “ the comic book creation process and the adaptation of comics for the big screen from an Asian American perspective.” (wanted to make sure I got that right! ). It was definitely worth seeing. J Lee and G Pak were both down-to-earth and humorous. As star-strucked as I was, they did not act like big time celebs. They were chill and talked to us like a couple of comic book fanatics. Really cool guys.

After the live panel, Greg Pak had a book signing at Barnes & Nobles I was finally able to get a picture of him. He signed my Hulk Mighty Mugg and even drew a comic bubble that says, “Hulk Smash!!!”

Now my Marvel Mighty Mugg Avenger collection is half complete! Leading the team is Iron Man with Stan Lee’s signature. With second in command is my fave Marvel character, Wolverine with Jim Lee’s signature. Recently promoted is Hulk with Greg Pak’s signature.  Spider-Man is reserved for Todd Mcfarlane who’s also a childhood fav of mine.  I’m still researching Thor and Capt. America.