Tim Stodard’s journey from Showcase Comics to Kevin Smith’s movie set
Showcase Comics and Collectables owner Tim Stodard turned a lifelong passion for comic books into a Slidell, Louisiana, comic shop—and an unexpected connection to filmmaker Kevin Smith. In this POP nakaro video interview, Stodard shares how his store supplied comics, collectibles and props for Brodie’s Secret Stash in Jay and Silent Bob Reboot, bringing him onto the set with Kevin Smith, Jason Mewes and Jason Lee.
Long before Hollywood called, Stodard discovered the possibilities of a comic book store through inexpensive Ghost Rider back issues and childhood favorites including Spider-Man, Batman, Superman and the Flash. He recalls collecting Marvel, DC, Valiant and Image Comics, stepping away during Spider-Man’s Clone Saga and returning after discovering Kingdom Come.
Those experiences shaped Showcase Comics, which opened in 2016. Stodard discusses welcoming comic creators including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles co-creator Kevin Eastman, artist Steve Lavigne, Angel Medina and former Marvel editor-in-chief Jim Shooter.
Bringing those creators to Slidell produced friendships and stories that extend beyond a signing table. Stodard remembers selling his Amazing Fantasy No. 15 to fund Eastman’s appearance, commissioning Lavigne to combine Baxter Stockman with The Fly and hearing Shooter recount the development of Transformers and Secret Wars during an airport pickup.
His involvement with Jay and Silent Bob Reboot also created an opportunity for fellow Louisiana artist Tim Lattie, whose original artwork became part of the film. For Stodard, seeing his shop’s merchandise on a movie set connected years of collecting with the filmmaker and characters he had followed as a fan.
Back at Showcase Comics, that same enthusiasm guides how he welcomes new readers. Whether helping a child discover a favorite superhero or giving collectors another box to explore, Stodard wants his shop to offer the sense of possibility he found in comic stores growing up.
