Alan Moore

He's saturating the pop culture index right now, oddly enough, by begging to be forgotten about in conjunction with the film adaptation of his "V For Vendetta" graphic novel. He's always been a strange figure, media-shy and cloistered away in his native Northampton, En-guh-land, which is why this BBC feature on Moore is a real treat, because it's probably the first and only time anyone will ever see the man as he lives and breathes. Tall and hirsute, Moore first strikes the viewer as a genius trapped inside a craggy, socially-awkward hermit -- but it's a surprise to see the real Moore in conversation, gregarious and open, excited about his work and influences.

With that said, there is no reason why, if you haven't already read "V for Vendetta," that you aren't actively seeking out a copy online. It's superb, of course.