American Comic Artist Mike Wieringo just passed away. Apparently he suffered a heart attack yesterday and was found lifeless by the time the ambulance had arrived. Mike (or "Ringo" as he signed his art) was 44.I've been a casual fan of Mike's work and really loved to follow what he was up to on his Blog and Website. There was a consistent sense of innocence and charm in his work that is very rare to find in the modern American Comics scene.He had successful runs on Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Superman, Impulse (whom he designed) and the creator-owned Tellos.It's really weird to hear he's no longer with us. I never met the guy, but he seemed like a really friendly fellow. As a vegetarian, he was one of the healthiest guys in comics...so the heart attack came about completely unexpected.May he rest in peace.

I've already talked about SPLINTER. It's the amazing first movie of Michael D. Olmos. Michael will be the director of THE LUCHADORES FIVE movie. SPLINTER will be released this week. It's unfortunately a limited release but if you have the opportunity, don't miss it, it's a wonder.AUG 17th 2007- LIMITED RELEASE ONLYMANN Theaters - THE PLANT;7876 Van Nuys Blvd.; Van Nuys, CA 91402AMC Theaters - ONTARIO MILLS 30;4549 Mills Circle; Ontario, CA 91764AMC Theaters - AMC COVINA;1414 N. Azusa Ave.; Covina, CA 91722

While the first issue of the US version of LUCHA LIBRE is being printed, we're already working on issue 5. Here are some pencils by Bill (LUCHADORES FIVE) and Gobi (TEQUILA).

We just signed a deal with Club Deal Films and Chamber Six to adapt the "Luchadores 5" as a live action movie. We are now one small step closer to making a "Luchadores 5" film a reality! Below you will find Muttpop Bob, Screenwriter Adrian Cruz, Jerry Frissen, Producer Pierre Spengler, and Director Michael Olmos sharing a champagne toast. Wish us luck in sharing our Lucha Libre universe with the world!

A few weeks ago I shared my love of all things Gondry with his little RUBIK'S CUBE TRICK. I have just discovered that he is directing a new film starring Jack Black and Mos Def called BE KIND REWIND. I love the concept. Jack Black's acting can get annoying...but the same can be said of Jim Carrey...and Gondry made magic with Carrey in ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND.I can't wait!

It's a little weird for me to post about an interview someone did with me. This was posted a few days ago...but I figure there might be one or two of you that'd be interested in checking it out: EXPLODER 98 MUTTPOP BOB INTERVIEW