I would like to take a moment for a section that, I feel, can sometimes seem undervalued. Truth be told, I visit this site to purely get my fix of news that floods through the gates. But early on, usually during a slow news day, I took some time to skim through the 'editorial' section. I was amazed to find a wealth of true writing talent lurking in the shadows. Admittedly there is 'aspiring writer' chops being well and truely flexed.
Sometimes they address reservations that some of us have about particluar themes and counter-balance those opinions with explaination and counter-arguement. There have even been times when I have had a strong opinion about a subject but an editorial has made me consider both sides of the coin.
News is great but sometimes can be regurgetated content from other sites. That's not to say I have any dislike of it, it's just it isn't always the postee's work. An editorial can display real reporting/detective work. For example, Josh Wilding posted 'What Is Loki Wielding In Latest Avengers Set Photos? Could It Be...An Infinity Gem?!'. The credibility of such a post can sometimes be called into question (without evidence) but no one can deny the effort that went into creating the article and the skill it took to write a piece that covers multiple basis' often seen in mainstream journalism. The contributions/replies/discussion in the comments section speaks for itself when judging the impact of such a piece.
WinterSoldier 24 also posted 'Did Jon Favreau set the bar for introducing characters to the silver screen?'. It can seem extrememly opinionated but that's what international writers form almost all of their article on. It is written in such a way that it doesn't alienate the reader and isolate the writer. If you peruse the comments section it holds real discussion instead of the projected insults of other portions of the site.
Xenix posted 'Marvel Studios: From Bankrupt to Disney' a couple of weeks ago and provided the most interesting and enlightening read I have seen on the subject.
ThreeBigTacos posted 'Comics and Racism, Where's The Line?' and highlighted parts of the Ultimate Spider-man change that people should be considering before passing judgement. At times editorials seem to be the unbiased voice of reason.
These are just a few examples of tremendous writing talent that make the cut monthly. There have been some great posts throughout the last year to which, sadly, I cannot remember the contributors names. These are just those that were most recent that stood out for me.
I do not wish to ruffle any feathers and make it seem like I'm here to insult those at the top. However, when I browse that main page I see an endless sea of 'polls' that get churned out on a daily basis. 'Polls' let us see what a general concenus is on an important matter in the CBM world and I enjoy taking part in them. But feel that there is oversaturation at times and some great editorial articles would benefit the site to be put in a place where they are given the recognition they deserve.
In regards to the comments areas in other sections. Opinions and genuine discussion can sometimes decend into insulting, name calling and 'reporting'. A comment doesn't allow the depth of an opinion to be displayed. An edititorial does and lets members come together in agreement on opinion and findings of great reporting. I would love for those who take the time to contribute in such a manner to be allowed to shine brightly above the tat.
Again, please take none of this with anger or that I'm trying to say there are short comings within this site. It works just fine and gives all fans an outlet to share in their hobby. I just wanted us all to take a moment to show some appreciation.
I just thought that it was worth somebody showing love for a credible section filled by hardworking and talented indiviuals on comicbookmovie.com...and no doubt, future writers.
Your Craptain Salutes You!