Bringing you some of the very best hidden gems from the world of independent comics, movies and TV.

We introduce a future new segment 'The CBO Bookclub'.  In episode 40 we're going to be talking about 'The Winter King' by Bernard Cornwell, so we'd encourage everyone to go out and read the book (if you haven't already) and then come and take part in the discussion by getting in touch with us.

After some news detailing the latest happenings in the genre world we commence with the Rourkefest!

In part one we discuss the life and works of Mickey Rourke from boxer to hearthrob to boxer to Oscar nominee.  We recap some of the highlights of his career and discuss what might have been when we discover some of the famous roles he's turned down.

In part two we get on with an in depth (but mostly spoiler free) review of 'The Wrestler'.  Directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Mickey Rourke, this truly is a masterpiece of film-making.

In the second episode of 2009, Scott and Steve start with some news and reviews and recently there have been a couple of tragic losses.

In our Main Feature we move on to more positive stories as awards season is upon us and we look at the Oscars and who we think is likely to win, but, What If, we could choose and the person who actually won the golden statue was the most deserving?

In our Hidden Gem we talk about The Guild, a great internet based tv comedy which stars and was written by Felicia Day, of Buffy and Dr Horrible fame. Listen right to the end to hear an audio sample of the first episode of The Guild, Season 1, Episode 1.

In the first episode of 2009 we commence with some news including the latest on what's happening with the Watchmen movie, the start of 24 and who has the best Golden Globes.

In the main feature we discuss plays that have been turned into movies.  This is a big topic, but we pick out some choice examples - and hopefully some will surprise you.

Then in the first Challenge Scott of 2009 we take a look at the first trades of 'Rex Mundi' and 'Northlanders'.

Happy new year all!