The company's feature films, Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk, were drivers for the quarter. In fact, while operating income at both the licensing and publishing divisions declined, the film segment reversed a loss in the year-ago period, turning it into a nice profit. Net cash from operations also took a sweet jump of superheroic proportions.

Going forward, Marvel should continue to do well with its movie business. Of course, that doesn't mean that its self-financed film model doesn't come without any risk. Indeed, a few flops and the company could see its stock fall on hard times.

Marvel has a lot of brand power when it comes to characters, though. And in 2010, both investors and fans alike can look to the Iron Man sequel for some enjoyment (and shareholder value, of course).

In 2011, Marvel will be counting on Thor and Captain America to power up earnings potential. And in 2012, The Avengers project will hit the silver screen. Yes, long-term investors have a lot to look forward to.

But I have to reiterate something I said earlier in the week about Marvel's shares. If you're a trader who was just playing around with the stock and already have a gain, you may want to consider booking it.

Still, I concede that I liked the Q1 numbers and have a desire to get back in the stock. I've owned it in the past and made money off the company. But I'd really like to see a pullback. If the stock dipped below $30 per share, it might be interesting at that point. We've got a ways to go, though, before the next major movie release. I mean, I think it's entirely conceivable that Marvel could drift lower from here, at least until the next earnings release. So I'd tread with at least a little caution when it comes to buying this stock.

Disclosure: I don't own any company mentioned; positions can change without notice.