Hello, I'v just finished the entire run of "The Star Brand" and I found it a fascinating read. Both for the treatment of the story, the unexpected finale and all the behind the scenes stuff with the anavoidable references to Jim Shooter.

I really like JB's take about Science fiction and how he managed to integrate time travel stories. I really wish there was more of the JB/Tom Palmer team on this run. I really like how the two styles meshed. Especially for the character of Myron.

Just imagine : a John Romita Jr Design, pencilled par JB and inked by Tom Palmer :  great combination !!

If that's possible, I'd like to ask JB some questions about some elements as I cn't figure out how some daring elements of it were authorized to pass :

1) First, what did you think of the Shooter/RomitaJr run ? What interest did you have in the story ? Did you ask to follow their run or was it request from some editors friends ?

2) Was the character of Ken Connell really Jim Shooter ? I mean, it seems hard to believe that such a narcissic move could be allowed to pass in comics. Do you know the reasons of such a... weird move from the part of the former CEO ?

3) When you took over, you were pretty harsh with the character of Ken Connell. Was it reflecting the feelings you had with Jim Shooter or was it more how the industry regarded him ?

4) The realistic parts and the SF parts of your run really made me think of Next Men, especially the DP7 crossover with the president of the US who was also a villain with super powers. Do you think it could have been the first draft of you ideas for the Next men Universe ?

5) I notice that except for one issue, you were mostly doing breakdowns. Were you busy on other projects ? I do like the breakdown style in this run as it made an even transition with Romita's style.

6) Do you remember if the sales of Star Brand got higher in your run or how your run was perceived ? There were so many radical ideas I cannot believe I found all those issues in quarter bin boxes. I mean, this run, for all its experimental value is really a hidden gem and a model for every Bendis who's trying to deconstruct the "super hero" genre. (I really liked how Shooter and JB in very different ways were able to cram so much story in each issue)

7) Howard mackie and Marc Gruenwald made cameos in this run. How much were they involved in the development of the stories and the Pitt's crossover ? Was it your idea ?

8) Do you know how Shooter responded to your run ?

8) One of the characters Shooter put in the book was based on an old girlfriend of his. He did not get her to sign a release to use her name or likeness. After he left the book, she threatened to sue. Just a coincidence, I am sure.

Thank you, Daniel!

8 issues... I'll find them easily.