PAUL’S “BEST OF” FOR 2005

In NO particular order, here’s 20 things that I liked in 2005:
1. JOSS WHEDON’S “FIREFLY” SERIES
This was an amazing show, and it jumpstarted the part in my brain that really enjoys character-driven sci-fi. I am just floored at how well written this show was, and also how hard it sucked me into it’s story, especially because of my aversion to space drama sci-fi junk. A major inspiration for my next writing project, whether I know it or not.
2. SPX
The Small Press Expo in Bethesda, MD was a revitalization for me of what a good comic convention should be, when it focuses on the creators rather than the Dukes of Hazzard car and the washed up pro wrestlers appearing at the show. A well run and truly inspiring 3 days that made me more confident that the indy comic market can still do the right thing. Plus, it was a great excuse for Jane and I to celebrate our first wedding anniversary around our friends in the industry.
3. MOPED ARMY FUNDRAISING FOR DAVE BRZEZICKI
Watching the Moped Army raise $3500 in under 2 weeks for one of their own who got seriously injured by an SUV was nothing short of awesome, and made me more sure than ever that I picked a good group to do a graphic novel about.
4. ROYKSOPP: “THE UNDERSTANDING”
This album gets my final vote for Album of the Year. They moved ahead from their first album, but didn’t leave behind the stuff that made them good. Catchy intelligent electronic pop music that you can not be ashamed about. Torbj