As an experienced comic enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the unique, compelling universe of the British comic anthology, ‘2000AD’. My fascination grew even further when I watched the documentary, ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’.
If you are intrigued by the world of comics and want to delve deeper, you are in for a treat. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to this universe from a detailed comic summary to cosplaying tips.
Detailed Comic Summary
‘2000AD’, a weekly British comic anthology, first burst onto the scene in 1977. Known for its blend of science fiction and fantasy, it quickly became a staple among comic book enthusiasts.
The anthology is famous for introducing iconic characters like Judge Dredd and Rogue Trooper, among others. The comic series has also been a platform for many now-renowned comic book writers and artists to showcase their talents early in their careers.
Each story in ‘2000AD’ offers a unique perspective, often incorporating political satire and dystopian themes. The narratives are inventive, the artwork stunning, and the characters are some of the most memorable in comic book history.
The comic anthology’s enduring popularity is testament to its quality and the creative genius behind it.
John Wagner, Pat Mills, and Kelvin Gosnell: Their Contributions and Bios
John Wagner, Pat Mills, and Kelvin Gosnell are the three key figures who brought ‘2000AD’ to life. John Wagner is a Scottish comic book writer best known for his work on Judge Dredd.
He is also known for his collaborations with artist Carlos Ezquerra, with whom he co-created Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog.
Pat Mills, often regarded as the ‘godfather of British comics’, is known for creating several of the comic’s iconic characters, such as Nemesis the Warlock and Sláine.
Kelvin Gosnell, initially a sub-editor, soon became chief editor, guiding the comic through its early years and helping shape its distinctive voice.
‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ Movie Summary
‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ is a 2014 documentary film directed by Paul Goodwin that delves into the history and impact of the comic anthology. The film features interviews with prominent figures associated with ‘2000AD’, including Wagner, Mills, and Gosnell. The film does an excellent job of highlighting the comic’s influence on the broader comic book industry and its enduring cultural impact.
The movie takes the viewer on a journey through the comic’s history, offering insights into its creation, its evolution, and its impact. It features fascinating anecdotes from the creators, artists, and fans, all of which paint a vivid picture of the comic’s importance and influence.
Parent Guide to ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
As a parent, you may wonder if ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ is suitable for your child. The comic’s stories often deal with complex themes and feature a level of violence that may not be suitable for younger readers.
Similarly, the documentary film, while insightful and informative, discusses these themes and includes footage from the comic that may not be suitable for younger viewers.
However, for older children and teenagers with an interest in comics, ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ could be a fascinating introduction to the world of British comics.
It’s a chance for them to learn about the creative process behind the comics, the history of the comic book industry, and the impact of ‘2000AD’ on pop culture.
When and Where ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ Takes Place
The stories in ‘2000AD’ take place in a variety of settings, spanning different time periods and even different planets.
The anthology’s most famous character, Judge Dredd, operates in a dystopian future where law and order are maintained by Judges — law enforcement officers who have the power to act as judge, jury, and executioner.
The film ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’, on the other hand, takes place in our world and our time. It is a documentary that explores the real-world creation and impact of ‘2000AD’, featuring interviews with the creators, artists, and fans of the comic.
Exploring the Film Locations of ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
The documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of ‘2000AD’, featuring interviews conducted in the home offices, studios, and favorite haunts of the comic’s creators.
You’ll get a glimpse into the spaces where these creative minds worked to bring the universe of ‘2000AD’ to life. Given the film’s documentary nature, it doesn’t have traditional film locations.
However, it does offer fascinating insights into the real-world locations that inspired various aspects of ‘2000AD’, such as the dystopian Mega-City One, which was inspired by American cities, and the Celtic mythology-inspired world of Sláine.
Who’s Who in ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ features a wide range of contributors, including the primary creators of ‘2000AD’ — John Wagner, Pat Mills, and Kelvin Gosnell.
It also includes interviews with several renowned comic book writers and artists who started their careers at ‘2000AD’, such as Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman, and Brian Bolland.
The film also includes contributions from fans of the comic, including famous ones like Alex Garland, a screenwriter and director known for films like ‘Ex Machina’ and ‘Annihilation’, who credits ‘2000AD’ as a significant influence on his work.
Notable Quotes from ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
There are numerous memorable quotes from ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’, many of which offer insights into the comic’s creation and its impact.
For instance, John Wagner’s quote, “We were young, we were rebellious, and we had this opportunity to do exactly what we wanted,” perfectly captures the revolutionary spirit that drove the creation of ‘2000AD’.
Another notable quote comes from Pat Mills, who said, “We were creating something that was more than just a comic. We were creating a culture.” This quote underscores the profound impact ‘2000AD’ has had not just on the world of comics, but on popular culture as a whole.
Soundtrack by Neil Collymore: An Overview
The soundtrack for ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ is composed by Neil Collymore. It perfectly encapsulates the film’s tone, with a mix of futuristic synth sounds reminiscent of the comic’s sci-fi themes and intense, dramatic pieces that underscore the comic’s darker elements.
The soundtrack enhances the viewing experience, adding depth and texture to the film. It complements the film’s narrative, underpinning the interviews and archival footage with a soundscape that reflects the comic’s unique blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopia.
Curiosities about ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
There are many fascinating curiosities related to ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’. For instance, did you know that ‘2000AD’ was originally intended to be a companion to another comic, ‘Action’, before it became a standalone publication? Or that the comic’s title, ‘2000AD’, was chosen because it seemed like a far-off, futuristic date at the time of its creation in the 1970s?
One of the most intriguing curiosities is the sheer number of now-famous comic book writers and artists who got their start at ‘2000AD’. The comic has been a launching pad for numerous careers, with figures like Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman, and Grant Morrison all having contributed to ‘2000AD’ early in their careers.
Tips for Cosplaying Characters from ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
If you’re interested in cosplaying characters from ‘2000AD’, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, research is key. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the character you want to cosplay, studying their outfit, accessories, and any distinctive traits they may have.
Secondly, don’t be afraid to get creative. Part of the fun of cosplaying is putting your own spin on a character. Whether it’s making your own costume from scratch or finding unique ways to interpret a character’s look, creativity can make your cosplay stand out.
Lastly, remember to have fun. Cosplay is about celebrating your love for a character and having a great time doing it. Don’t stress too much about getting every detail perfect — the most important thing is to enjoy yourself.
Dressing Like Characters from ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
Dressing like characters from ‘2000AD’ can be a fun way to express your fandom. Whether you’re going to a comic convention, a cosplay event, or just want to show off your love for ‘2000AD’ in your everyday life, here are a few tips.
First, decide which character you want to dress as. Each character in ‘2000AD’ has a distinct look, so choose a character whose style you like and feel comfortable emulating. Next, study the character’s outfit and identify the key elements that define their look.
Then, look for clothing and accessories that match these elements. You don’t have to replicate the character’s outfit exactly — instead, aim to capture the essence of their look. Remember, the goal is to pay tribute to the character, not to become a carbon copy of them.
Ending Explained: ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
The ending of ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ is a celebration of ‘2000AD’s enduring legacy.
The film concludes with a montage of artwork from the comic, accompanied by testimonials from creators and fans about the comic’s impact on their lives and on pop culture as a whole.
The film ends on a hopeful note, with contributors expressing their belief in the comic’s continued relevance and their hope for its future.
It’s a fitting ending for a film about a comic that has always been forward-thinking, pushing boundaries, and continually evolving.
Possibilities of a Remake, Sequel, or Spin-off
Given ‘2000AD’s enduring popularity and the success of ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’, it’s not out of the question that we could see a sequel or spin-off in the future.
A sequel could delve deeper into the comic’s history, exploring later periods in its run or focusing on specific characters or creators.
A spin-off could focus on a particular aspect of ‘2000AD’, such as its influence on other media, its impact on the comic book industry, or the experiences of its fans. Whatever form it takes, more exploration of the ‘2000AD’ universe would certainly be welcomed by fans.
Exploring other Media by Paul Goodwin
Beyond ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’, director Paul Goodwin has worked on a variety of other projects. He has directed short films and music videos, and worked as an editor on numerous TV shows and documentaries.
Goodwin’s work often showcases his interest in genre storytelling and his ability to craft engaging narratives. His experience as an editor is evident in his directorial work, which is characterized by its sharp pacing and clear storytelling.
Similar Media to ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
If you enjoyed ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’, there are several other films and TV shows that you might also enjoy. ‘Comic Book Confidential’ is a documentary that explores the history of American comic books, featuring interviews with numerous creators.
For a fictional take on the world of comics, you might enjoy ‘Comic Book Men’, a reality TV show set in Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash, a comic book store in Red Bank, New Jersey.
The show features discussions about comic books and pop culture, as well as the day-to-day operations of the store.
Other Works by John Wagner, Pat Mills, and Kelvin Gosnell
Beyond ‘2000AD’, John Wagner, Pat Mills, and Kelvin Gosnell have each had prolific careers in the world of comics. Wagner has worked on numerous other comics, including ‘Strontium Dog’ and ‘Button Man’.
Mills has created several other popular characters and series, including ‘Marshal Law’ and ‘ABC Warriors’.
Gosnell, meanwhile, has worked as a writer and editor on several other British comics, including ‘Starlord’ and ‘Tornado’. Each of these creators has left a significant mark on the world of comics, and their other works are well worth exploring if you enjoyed ‘2000AD’.
Similar Media to 2000 AD
If you’re a fan of ‘2000AD’, there are several other comics that you might also enjoy. ‘Judge Dredd Megazine’ is a spin-off of ‘2000AD’ that focuses on the character of Judge Dredd.
‘Starlord’ and ‘Tornado’ are two other British comics that were created by the same team behind ‘2000AD’.
If you’re interested in other British comics, ‘Eagle’ and ‘2000 AD’ are two classics that have a similar blend of sci-fi and action.
For fans of American comics, ‘Heavy Metal’ and ‘Epic Illustrated’ are two anthologies that share ‘2000AD’s love of genre storytelling and boundary-pushing artwork.
Book Club Questions about ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
If you’re discussing ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ in a book club or film discussion group, here are a few questions to get the conversation started:
- What was your favorite segment of the film, and why?
- How does ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ compare to other documentaries you’ve seen about comics or pop culture?
- What did you learn about the creation of ‘2000AD’ that you didn’t know before?
- How has ‘2000AD’ influenced other media, and what impact has it had on popular culture?
- What do you think the future holds for ‘2000AD’?
Video Games related to ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
Several video games have been inspired by ‘2000AD’. The most famous is probably the ‘Judge Dredd’ series of games, which allow players to take on the role of the iconic lawman.
Other games inspired by ‘2000AD’ include ‘Rogue Trooper’, based on the comic of the same name, and ‘Sláine: The Celtic Barbarian’, based on the character Sláine.
These games capture the unique blend of action, sci-fi, and dark humor that characterizes ‘2000AD’. Whether you’re a fan of the comic or just enjoy video games with a distinctive visual style and engaging gameplay, these games are well worth checking out.
Traveling to the Locations of ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’
While ‘2000AD’ is set in a variety of fantastical locations, the real-world locations associated with the comic can also be of interest to fans.
For instance, you can visit the offices of Rebellion, the current publisher of ‘2000AD’, in Oxford, England.
You can also visit the birthplace of Judge Dredd in Scotland, where co-creator John Wagner grew up.Similarly, you can visit the locations featured in ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’.
The film includes interviews conducted in a variety of locations, from the home offices of the creators to iconic comic book stores.
While not traditional tourist destinations, these locations offer a unique way to connect with the world of ‘2000AD’.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a longtime fan of ‘2000AD’ or a newcomer to its unique universe, ‘Future Shock! The Story of 2000AD’ offers a fascinating look at the comic’s history and impact.
From its detailed comic summary to cosplay tips, this guide aims to deepen your appreciation for John Wagner, Pat Mills, and Kelvin Gosnell’s universe.
Remember, whether you’re exploring the film locations, dressing up as your favorite character, or delving into the works of the comic’s creators, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey.
Happy exploring, and remember: the future is in your hands!
