2010, 2011 . . . and a farewell

Comics Guy has reasons to be happy and sad at 2011's arrival.

As always, a new year brings the anticipation of new projects, events and developments in this medium I adore so much.

For example, in less than two weeks "The Green Hornet" will hit the big screen and, it's hoped, make people aware of the high-quality comics that Dynamite has been putting out recently starring the character.

Two high-profile films are already creating huge buzz with their incredible trailers: "Thor," which should appeal to everyone from "Lord of the Rings" fans to those who've enjoyed "Iron Man" and other Marvel superhero film fare; and "Green Lantern," which looks to be the first launch of a film franchise in decades starring a DC character.

In July, fans can look forward to the most real American hero (sorry, G.I. Joe) in our culture and the most patriotic character in comics - Captain America - hitting cineplexes. Early word is that fans who are worried about a campy take on the character should relax. Some are actually comparing the film, set during World War II, to "Saving Private Ryan."

Then, of course, there is the attempt to resurrect the franchise that, along with "Blade," started the Marvel Movie explosion. Though the last installment had a mixed reaction, hopes are high for "X-Men: First Class," which puts a fresh spin on the mutants everyone loves so well by depicting them when they were young and inexperienced. Reaction so far has been so good that producer Lauren Shuler Donner is already planning two sequels.

Another comic franchise that will be resurrected on-screen this year is "Conan."

Comic fans should also look forward to "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2," as rumors increase that the only way fans will see new adventures of Harry and friends after this is if J.K. Rowling gives a comics series her blessing.

The year will end with "The Adventures of TinTin: Secret of the Unicorn." Though virtually unknown in the U.S., "TinTin" is hugely popular in Europe, and should appeal to American audiences as a cross between Charlie Brown and Spider-Man.

Steven Spielberg reportedly had been dreaming about making "TinTin" since 1981, when he was introduced to the comics by a "Raiders of the Lost Ark" reviewer who cited TinTin as an "Indiana Jones for kids." It seems like forever since Spielberg had boyish enthusiasm for a project. If he brings that to "TinTin" the results could be spectacular.