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In comic books many publishers try to expand a certain title or story arcs into spinoffs and crossovers. While some of these are a whole a lot of fun (We would never have had the Avengers or Justice League) others can be downright frustrating, in that you have to buy comics you wouldn't have read on your own. What are the good things and bad things about comic book spinoffs and crossovers?

Angel, a spin off of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, was for a time on par with its sister property. But it did not last as long as Buffy or get as much attention from fans (as far as I can guess). What are the differences between the shows that has caused this division?

Ever since Caityln Jenner came out the world, we have seen a rise in stories being told about transgender people. This year, we'll see two feature films that concern being transgender (The Danish Girl and About Ray). Television too has gotten in on the trend which shows like I Am Cait and I Am Jazz. And before that we had Transparent on Hulu. What have been the conditions that have led to this rise in transgender storytelling?

Oftentimes comic book historians will talk about the variety of eras in comic book history. For example the Silver Age is said to have taken place from 1950s to the 1970s. In this era comics began to turn into hardcore science fiction stories. Stan Lee starting creating comics during this period and many of his creations, like the Hulk and Fantastic Four, are scientifically based. What were the conditions (socially and culturally) that led to the creation of this era? Both Marvel and DC should be discussed.

When critics and audiences criticize a female character they usually say "She's just a love interest." But what does that mean in the broad scheme of things? Is it possible to be a love interest and a fully realized character?

Of all the Marvel solo films, Thor is often considered to be the weakest of the bunch. So much so that title character is often upstaged in his own movie. Thor 3, which will be entitled Thor: Ragnorok, is expected in November of 2017. What can the filmmakers improve upon to make Thor a strong contender?

Usually in cinema bigger girls and women are often cast into supporting comedic roles. They are often loud, blunt, and lazy. Even when they are cast in lead roles the story often involves their size in the some way. There have been exceptions though, for example Hairspray and possibly Spy due out this summer.

How is this trope utilized? Are any other forms of media that subvert this trope?

Breaking the fourth wall refers to when a character addresses the audience directly. Comics, Films, and even books use this technique for a variety of reasons. Sometimes its used for humor purposes. Other times its used to comment on the work itself. Still, there are instances when this can be distracting to the audience and it prevents the story from moving forward.

How can a balance be maintained?