VINCENT ZURZOLO: A COLLECTOR'S JOURNEY

Vincent Zurzolo, a prominent figure in the world of comics and collectibles, has carved a unique path. In this exclusive email interview, Zurzolo sheds light on pivotal moments that led him to establish iconic establishments like Metropolis and ComicConnect. Additionally, he reflects on his personal journey as a collector of both comics and art, shares insights into the challenges of the industry, and discusses his views on the translation of comic stories to the film medium.

“I’ve loved comics since I was a kid. I started dealing [them] at 15 and kept going. After college I sold comics on the streets of Manhattan, conventions and out of my apartment.”

Following Zurzolo’s early days in Manhattan, he merged his company in 1999 with Stephen Fishler and continue to operate under the name Metropolis. Together, they formed ComicConnect in 2007, further solidifying their presence in the industry.

As an avid collector of art, Zurzolo reveals that his all-time favorite piece is the cover art to Amazing Adventures 11. This piece holds sentimental value, as it connects him to his childhood. He told News Nuggets in an email “I remember reading my big brothers’ copy as a kid and finding it simply incredible. When the cover came up for sale at auction my heart raced the entire week until the end and I won it.”

“I collect certain artists like Frank Frazetta, Gil Kane, Bill Everett, Stephen Platt and Todd McFarlane. I also collect characters I really like: Wolverine, Spider-Man, The Flash and Batman” he said.

One of the significant challenges in the comic market, according to Zurzolo, is sourcing great material. However, with a stellar reputation and longstanding relationships with collectors worldwide, he emphasizes that his extensive network has been instrumental in overcoming this challenge.

There was a time where he faced an internal struggle, he was offered the original cover art to Famous Funnies 215 by Frank Frazetta, “some of the most highly collected comics around” he noted, something that is nearly impossible to acquire. Despite having been saving up for a house, Zurzolo chose to invest in the rare Frazetta piece, a decision he has never regretted.

“When would I have another opportunity to buy a Frazetta. I bought it and have never regretted it.”

Zurzolo believes that comics can “educate, entertain, and offer escapism.” Reflecting on the challenges and rewards of tackling taboo topics in comics, he acknowledges that the landscape has evolved over the years. In 2023, Zurzolo, along with his writing partner, David Quinn, launched his first comic book, “The Addiction,” which explores themes of drug addiction and abuse.

When asked about comic book characters or storylines he would like to see adapted into film, Zurzolo expressed interest in seeing The Addiction, Deathlok, Badger, The Question, Nexus, Saga, and a new Conan movie “done right.”

While discussing how recent trends in comic book themes have influenced his business strategies, Zurzolo emphasizes the evolution of vintage comic trends, highlighting their dependence on changing tastes, perceived value, and effective marketing.

Zurzolo, fan of the first Blade movie, appreciates the blend of dialogue, direction, fight choreography, and casting that makes it an enjoyable experience. Nostalgically, he holds the first Superman and 1989 Batman close to his heart, as well as Captain America: The Winter Soldier. “In my mind, if you take the superhero aspects out of the movie it still reads as a great action, thrill ride, and suspenseful movie in the same vein as many 1970s spy movies.”

The son of Italian immigrants, Zurzolo, revealed his love for cooking. Had he not pursued a career in comics and collectibles, he envisioned himself following in his father's footsteps as a chef and restaurateur. Of course, we asked the most important question, how he enjoys his chicken nuggets, to which he replied that though he is not an avid consumer, he definitely indulges on special occasions.

“Food is love and I love to cook. I know if I wasn’t selling comics I would be cooking something somewhere.”

Zurzolo continues to leave a prominent mark as a collector, entrepreneur, and advocate for the comic book industry. His journey from his childhood love of comics to the establishment of Metropolis and ComicConnect is a testament to his unwavering passion for the art form.