Defiant Comics Now Open in Forest Park

By Michael Sewall

Defiant Comics is open for business at 7234 W. Madison St. in Forest Park. 

The owners say they want to defy any traditional perceptions of comics stores.

That makes its name, Defiant Comics, fitting. 

“It's sort of a philosophy, that we're defying the idea that people have of what a comic shop is,” co-owner Brian Fisher said. “A lot of comic stores have this environment that's not necessarily welcoming to everybody. It's almost like a private club. We want to make a place where everyone is welcome to come in.”

Fisher, an Oak Park resident, worked at a comic book store in Downers Grove for eight years and decided he could open his own place. He teamed up with his friend, Don Wasilevich, who lives in Forest Park. They immediately targeted Madison Street.

“It was pretty much one thing we wouldn't compromise on,” Fisher said. “We were set on Madison Street. It’s a great street with lots of stores with that boutique feel and lots of foot traffic.”

Fisher said his love for comics started with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon that aired when he was a kid, and it grew from there. He said Defiant will offer a wide variety of comics and graphic novels, but the focus will be on newer releases.

“We're of the philosophy that everybody can find a comic book no matter what background you have, no matter what sex you are, no matter what age you are,” he said. “There's something out there for everybody and we want to help you find it.”

The store will initially open at 10 a.m. daily, and will close at 5 p.m. Sunday; 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; and 8 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Like the store’s page on Facebook for updates.