*rolls up sleeves*
*takes deep breath*
*reminds self that this an internet forum and exhales*

Where to meander in my thoughts here?

Let me start by saying that in my short time as a (freelance/paylance) pinball art-guy, that I can assure everyone of one thing about pinball... schedules are NOT meant to cater to the artist. It's a box with lights and mechs. The art is window dressing, I've heard.... I know this, and relearn this on every project (and the ones that get away *insert very fresh sting here*). So to understand the uphill battle that goes on based on time alone, is revelatory and I wish non-art-folk could understand and appreciate the torment we subject ourselves to because we ARE TRYING to make lemonade. So #1, time dictates everything.

Because of this base factor, not everyone is cut out to do pinball in the illustration world. Schedules rule the world and you have to be flexible. As such- I personally connected Johnny and Greg at Stern because Johnny is an immense talent and quick on his feet. He's done the licensor grind for years, as I have, and knows how to dance when the spotlight hits. So #2, you're wrong. Johnny did an amazing job that was done to the licensor's wishes... and it all kicks ass.

If you notice a tone in my textual-internet-voice, it's because I'm in the trenches now and seeing what Johnny did for his FIRST pin is only a sign of great things in the future. And the best part is he isn't burnt out or beaten down yet by dissenting voices on internet forums. Let's keep it that way. So #3, if you don't like it remember that it took a ton of effort aimed at you liking it and don't kill the creatives working against an impossible task of pleasing an unrealistic schedule, a group of licensor/actor/management wanting to put their own mark on the process, and the sheer will to live of the artist

I'm not discounting personal preference or taste - I know folks hate my stuff all the time (and god-willing, will in the future another time or two) - but use some constructive words. (Is it the composition? The colors? What specificially, in art terms, is bad? etc)

And remember, pinball games are about designers anyway, not the artists... we can go draw d*cks anywhere for cash

*falls back asleep at computer with pen in hand*

Focus is everything...

In a perfect world, everything is simply graphic design of photoshopped assets from the films and everyone loves them. Remember that? It sure looked like the films! ...would that have been better here?

I was trying to give perspective and make a plea that you realize a talented human being put effort into what you’re being flippantly dismissive of. And the alternative is much worse in my mind...

I’ll also add that I think that Johnny is a better pinball artist than me. His art looks like classic pinball art and that should be welcomed and appreciated...

Agree to disagree about disagreements... as you were...