I have to say this weekend felt even shorter than normal. I’m sure everyone will agree that weekends already feel short but this one was worse than usual. Maybe people without children still have “long weekends” but once you have kids your time becomes precious. Between home maintenance, weekly chores like laundry and grocery shopping, t-ball games, soccer games, dance recitals, quality time with the kids, and quality time with the wife there is very, very little personal quiet time left.
The problem is this wasn’t supposed to feel like a short weekend. It wasn’t supposed to be short because we managed to convince the grandparents to take the kids for a sleepover. That’s right, the GP’s were going to take the kids so that my wife and I could not only have quality time together when we weren’t already exhausted from a long day.
AND, the day was planned to maximize our time away from the kids. It included a bus tour of several local wineries and a quiet evening at home. By quiet evening at home, my wife and I agreed that quiet meant read a book in the same room, watching a movie together, or something in the same room which wouldn’t necessarily require talking.
The first sign of trouble occurred when I dropped the kids off at 8:30 AM Saturday. In conversation with the GP’s, they advised me they would be returning the kids by 9 AM Sunday. WHAT??? This means they would have the kids for exactly 24 hrs. I was hoping for at least noon so I could relax Sunday morning but that was now out. I had no worries because there was still plenty of quiet time available.
The second sign of trouble came when the bus broke down on the side of the highway. Have you ever seen a Greyhound bus on the side of the road and all the people piled out looking at it helplessly? Yep, that was me. BUT, There is a silver lining to this tale of woe. We had already completed the tour of the third vineyard so we were on our way home. Which means I got to taste all the wine I could handle AND the bus didn’t completely break down. The engine just overheated so we could drive for 3 minutes before stopping and letting the engine cool for 8 minutes before driving for another 3 minutes. I know these specific numbers because one of the people on the bus actually timed the duration. Needless to say, we got back to bus station at 7:30. To bad we were supposed to be home at 5:00! After that we went to dinner at the local Peruvian restaurant before heading home and straight to bed because we were exhausted from the day.
BUT, the whole point of this is that I spent TONS of quality time with my wife. LOTS and LOTS of quality time with her. I listened to her. I responded to all the questions she asked. I issued more than a “ugh, you right” caveman response. To be blunt, I did my time. Community service was over. It was me time.
AND, I decided to take that "me" time at 8:35 Sunday morning. It’s last 15 minutes before the kids come home (because the GP’s are always early) and all I wanted was some truly quiet time in my “private study”
BUT what happens… Wife decides we can spend the last 15 minutes having one final quality conversation! I didn’t want a quality conversation. I wanted to sit there in peace. I wanted to read the latest issue of "The Twelve" and enjoy the last few precious moments of silence that I had.
IS IT TOO MUCH TO ASK FOR SOME PEACE AND QUIET BEFORE THE KIDS COME HOME??? Is it???
But, the wife was determined to have that one last conversation! I figured she wouldn't talk for more than 1 minute but I was wrong. She just kept going and going and going. So I tried to be ultra rude and just read anyway. But, she still didn't leave. She kept droning on.
Finally, I went to the final option. Defcon 4. I released the previous nights dinner. That's right, a big rush of extra spicy Peruvian food all at once. In case you wondering, spicy food plus me plus next morning equals "WOW dat don't smell like roses."
But, my wife was not deterred, she held her nose, and in a very nasaly voice, told if I was done making noise, we could finish our conversation. I knew I was beat so I put down my book, looked at her intently, and issued "Ugh, you right honey" at just right times.
But, if you're interested in what else I read during the week go here
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Best to Worst of Last Week
This was a good week for comics; unfortunately for me it was a little rushed. Comics did not show until Thursday and the way I work things I have to have everything read and my comments/reviews done by Sunday. Add to that a company event on Saturday evening and some other projects that needed to get done with a large list of books and I was pressed to the wire.
Final Crisis #1 (of 7) – Writer Grant Morrison, Art JG Jones, Colors Alex Sinclair. There is no way that you can not compare DC’s big event to Marvel’s big event. As I freely admit I am more of a DC person when it comes to the big two, but let’s face it art is a big deal and JG Jones is an artist and a half and his work is perfect for a big event, while Lenil Yu’s is not. First chapter versus first chapter, Secret Invasion started up with a little more of bang to it then Final Crisis, did, but I like Final Crisis better already (no big surprise). First off JG Jones work is just excellent. He is more of a realistic bent to his art, but has beautiful rendering and gives us so much information into each panel as to be stunning. JG Jones has to be one of the top three comic book artists in the field today. There are so many very talented people, but George Perez, JG Jones and John Cassaday are the top three in my mind. The story itself was very well done. We start with Anthro the first boy and see Metron give him fire, which causes all sorts of havoc. We then skip ahead and see Detective Turpin (an old Jack Kirby character) find Orion almost dead in a dumpster. Orion wakes half crazed and states that “They did not die! He is in you all…” The Green Lantern’s are involved; the Monitors are involved, the Dark Side Club is on our Earth, Libra offering the villains the answer to their dreams, it goes on and on and on. This issue has 32 pages and Grant fills it to the brim with events. If I had a complaint about this issue is the death of the Martian Manhunter was given only a couple of panels. Libra is giving the Human Flame his desire to see J’onn J’onzz killed and he is marched out and then stab with a flaming spear thru his heart. For a character that has been around for so long this was a quick and inglorious death. Another element that I liked was the fact that this book is a series of events leading up to something and not a typical crisis brewing and all the heroes gather. If the first chapter is any indication we might have a great big event in the works. They are so rare for in continuity books, but I have high hopes for this one.
All Star Superman #11 – Writer Grant Morrison, Pencils Frank Quietly, Digital Inks and Colors
Jamie Grant. I’m running out of adjectives and ways to describe how good this comic is. Issue after issue after issue this book has been a piece of art. I’m also positive that once it is put together as a complete set in the Absolute format, it will read even better as a whole. We still have one chapter left, but this is the best Superman story ever done. This issue we have Lex create a potion to make him super for 24 hours, Superman and his robots fight the Tyrant Sun and out smart the use of Red Sun radiation, Clark Kent rush in to deliver the story of Superman’s death and then drop over apparently dead. The final panel super Lex blows out the side of the daily planet and floating in air declares “Clark is the least of your worries”. The story works as a straight super-hero adventure, as homage to what has come before and as a re-imagining of the Superman mythos. The script is matched by what is Frank Quietly’s best work ever. Each page is stunning and I imagine the secondary market for his original art on this book will be sky high.
Daredevil #107 – Writers Ed Brubaker and Greg Rucka, Artist Michael Lark and Stefano Gaudiano, Colors Matt Hollingsworth. The old Gotham Central creative team is back together for this arc on Daredevil and I loved this issue. Daredevil is still taking out his frustrations on the street thugs when Luke Cage comes by and tries to talk to him. Matt actually hits Luke and almost busts his hand. Matt takes off and Luke goes to Dakota. Luke is looking for someone to help stop an execution of a black man “Big” Ben Donovan, who has confessed to decapitating three children. We never get why Luke is involved or what he knows, but he wanted Matt to do his “lie detector” thing on “Big” Ben. As Matt is wrapped up in himself Dakota gets a recorded statement from Ben in hopes Matt can get a read off of it. She is mugged and told the let “Big” Ben die. Ultimately Matt does pick up the case and we have the start of our story. The art even seemed like it was stronger then normal this issue and it is always good with this art team. This is a great team and they really know how to do convincing and more street level type stories. I’m looking forward to the rest of the arc.
Batman #677 – Writer Grant Morrison, Pencils Tony Daniels, Inks Sandru Florea, Colors Guy Major. This was part 2 of the RIP story line and it is becoming very clear that this will be a very hard take down of Batman. Furthermore you can tell that Grant has been setting-up this story line for awhile. I also believe that this is just a middle point of Grant’s story about Batman. This issue we see Batman is losing it as he overly violent with a criminal he has caught. His obsession with the Black Glove has Gordon a little worried as he cannot find any references to the Black Glove. We also glimpse an additional element of Batman’s takedown as Thomas and Martha Wayne’s reputations are also being attacked. You get the feeling that everything that is happening and Batman’s odd actions have all been choreographed to bring about his downfall. The end scene was brutal as the Bat Cave has been destroyed and Alfred has been attacked. Grant is setting up a definitive run on this book and I think he has been setting it up since his first issue. I remember not being enthralled with Grant’s take on the X-Men in the beginning, but then when I read it as a whole I think it is the best run on that book in decades (since Claremont/Byrne). This run on Batman maybe the same deal and the story is just getting started. RIP is a climax point, but I do not think it is the end point. This was another strong issue and I’m looking forward to how this plays out. A final point is Tony Daniels is doing a great job on the art and has really moved up his game.
Thor #9 – Writer J. Michael Straczynski, Pencils Oliver Copiel, Inks Mark Morales, Danny Miki & John Dell, Colors Laura Martin. Oliver Copiel is really hitting the high water mark of his career with his art on this book. It has a strong realistic style that he exaggerates enough to make his gods seem godlike, and people seem like people. He has it all with great page layouts and design, facial expression, lighter scenes when needed and darker scenes with heavy blacks. This issue JMS show us a smoother and more subtle Loki as she starts to prey upon the minds of the Asgardians. It works because some of what she says is true as she starts to poison the heart and soul of Balder. Loki is as deceptive and two-timing as ever and while no longer a man, the same evil resides within. I hope this series gets collected as 12 issue runs, then I will be getting the hard cover collection of this run of Thor. JMS has been hitting it out of the park lately with Thor and The Twelve both being top series.
Batman Gotham After Midnight #1 (of 12) – Writer Steve Niles, Art Kelly Jones, Colors Michelle Madsen. With Steve Niles (the busiest writer in comics?) you almost always expect some turn or twist that will take you down a horror/supernatural path. Add Kelly Jones as the artist and the feeling grows even more assured. This issue we see Batman take out a newly escaped Scarecrow and wonder why his M.O. has changed. We see a new police lieutenant take credit fro Batman’s work and find out she is politically connected. We see a mysterious character who shows up at midnight who states “and it begins”, Batman building a crazy machine, Batman shot down by machine guns from a bunch of thugs and that is just in issue #1. I’m not sure where we are going with this book yet, but I really enjoyed the opening act. It was great to see Kelly Jones’ moody, dark and exaggerated style on Batman again. I love the impossible long and voluminous cape, the Bat ears each two feet long, the impossibly muscles that only Kelly can pull off. This is the type of start I want for a 12 issue maxi-series.
Northlanders #6 – Writer Brian Wood, Art David Gianfelice, Colors Dave McCaig. This continues to be a well done series. The opening sequence is Sven hacking, decapitating and just flat out killing a large group of men who have attacked him. Enna, the girl he has taken up with, acts as Sven’s conscious and she helps him to realize that he needs to be part of something and that his people need to be united. A group of warriors came to Sven looking to help him overthrown Gorm, as the battle is about to begin he is warned that a group of Saxons have just landed on their shores. This is a great historical fiction adventure that gives you a sense of what it might have been like to have lived in those times. Highly recommended.
Helen Killer #2 (of 4) – Created and Story by Andrew Kreisberg and Matthew Rice, Writer Andrew Kreisberg, Art Matthew Rice. What an opening panel. The first page is a full page splash of Helen (dressed appropriately for that time frame) kicking the head off and what we find out to be a dummy. We are immediately brought back into the series, just a perfect opening. This issue Helen goes off to be a secret service agent with Agent Blaylock. They arrive in the Pan American Exposition and get to work. Helen switches on here glasses and they allow her to see the aura’s of people. She tells Blaylock to stop the assassin, but he gets shots fired at the President. Helen has seen a black plume that represents such unbelievable evil she is almost compelled to follow it, as the glasses she wears give her powers, but fuel a growing hostility and darkness within her. Helen breaks into a robbery of some sort and gets into a heck of a fight and shows no mercy to her foes. The last panel it appears Helen has had a sword thrust thru her middle. Of course we know she survives, but I wander at what price. The artwork is great; Matthew uses the proper clothing, right cars, building, everything to put us in a time and place. Add to that his innate story telling sense and the book flows beautifully. The art is matched by the story and the wonderful way it works in historical fact with a fictional story. The recreation of McKinley’s assassination is melded into the overall story of Helen seamlessly and makes you feel like we just never heard of the fact that Helen Keller was there at the time. My only disappointment with the issue is that Lee and I did not get a pull quote for the back cover (kidding).
________________________________________________
Green Lantern #31 – Writer Geoff Johns, Pencils Ivan Reis, Inks Oclair Albert, Colors Ranov Mayor. The secret origin of Hal Jordan continues with another fine issue. First off I have to say that Ivan Reis has gone from being a good artist to at times channeling Neal Adams (who is an art god). The double page spread of all the different GL’s as Hal is summoned to OA for training was drop dead gorgeous work. The actual issue was essentially Hal learning how to be a GL from Killowog and the set-up for getting Sinestro to Earth. Geoff Johns is doing a wonderful job of re-telling Hal’s origin and being so true to it, that you feel like he didn’t change a thing, yet he is weaving in his retro-con seamlessly. Geoff has had so many long and very good to great runs on books, but GL feels more and more like the book that will be mark as his seminal run.
Fables #73 – Writer Bill Willingham, Pencils Mark Buckingham, Inks Steve Leialoha, Andrew Pepoy & Mark Buckingham, Colors Lee Loughridge. You know a book is a great series when you know ever creators name in the credit box by heart. Although the extra inkers were a surprise and have been a recent trend in many, many comics. The war has started and this issue was a wonderful set-up. We see the airships run by Prince Charming, Fort Bravo run by Bigby, Site Zero with Briar Rose, Fabletown fortified and the Snow Queen and the Emperor conspiring against the attack. Having a huge complex story is a great thing especially since we have been leading up to for awhile, but to have it explained so well was magnificent. This is a book that I can’t wait for the next issue of and I know issue #75 should have some status quo changing events. WHY ARE WE NOT GETTING HARD COVER COLLECTIONS OF THIS BOOK! Actually I think the reason is that the trades sell so well, they don’t want to screw up a good thing.
Hercules #2 (of 5) – Radical is doing such a nice job on their two opening series and Hercules is my favorite right now. I love how we are being given a “realistic” view of the man Hercules. See my full review here.
Proof #8 – Writer Alexander Grecian, Art Riley Rossmo, Colors Fiona Staples. This book is just a fun book to read each and every issue. I also like that the stories arcs length seem to be what the story demands and not an artificial make every arc six issues to fit it into a trade. “The Company of Men” story line ends in three issues and it felt like the perfect length. I loved Proof going to the Colonel and just snapping his leg almost off. Autumn getting away and seeing her hatred of the group was also excellent. Riley’s artwork just gets better and better, his scene of the dinosaur crashing the party was great and only surpassed by his page of Proof breaking loose. The Lodge trapping the Colonel and his men was another nice touch. This is a first class series and the creators’ joy in producing this book is infectious to the reader.
Legion of Super-Heroes #42 – Writer Jim Shooter, Pencils Francis Manapul, Inks Livesay, Colors Jo Smith. It starts with mysterious new uniforms showing up and continues until we get Legionnaires being arrested all over the place. The middle of the book involves a great battle with a group of Legionnaires taking on the latest batch of destroyers. Since the destroyers adapt to any attack, the great way they continued to vary their fight was inventive and fun to read. It would make the old thinking man’s hero Adam Strange proud indeed. I have not heard officially from DC that Shooter is leaving, but that would be a crying shame as this book is rocking under his pen. He has crafted a great overall tale and still managed to incorporate sub plots, characterization and relationship building between members. Each issue has a lot to it.
Ultimate Spider-Man #122 – Writer Brian Bendis, Pencils Stuart Immonen, Inks Wade von Grawbadger, Colors Justin Ponsor. This was a terrific issue of Spider-Man. When Bendis writes Peter is a solo adventure it always works better. This issue Spider-Man gets beaten by a villain he has taken as a joke, the Shocker. Mary Jane happens to be hand when he is captured and gets Kitty to help and find Peter. While captured Peter learns the history of the Shocker and tells him he feels sorry for him and that just makes the Shocker madder. Peter is beaten up really badly and escapes by sure luck and really comes after the Shocker. Luckily Kitty and the police arrive and she stops Peter before he could really hurt the Shocker. Stuart Immonen’s art looked good and it was an all around well done issue.
Teen Titans #59 – Writer Sean McKeever, Pencils Eddy Barrows, Inks Ruy Rose, Colros Rod Reis. This arc with the Terror Titans has really kicked this series into a better place. This issue we see Robin, Wonder Girl and Blue Beetle get pulled into a trap set-up by Clock King. We also see that Clock King was selling these heroes to Boss Dark Side for his club fights. I love the way DC has incorporated the Dark Side Club and the reinvention of the New Gods into three or four titles already. The impact of what is happening in Final Crisis is not interfering with series, but the changes are being felt. The fight between Clock King and Robin was intense as we find out Clock King sees a few seconds into the future and can therefore know what Robin is about to do and counter it. This series is on a good upswing and working it way back up the charts.
X-Men First Class #12 – Writer Jeff Parker, Art Roger Cruz, Colors Val Staples. This was a good issue in this series. We got an issue that focused on Warren and we learn that being the Angel is not all it is cracked up to be. It was hammered over our heads a little bit too strongly, but the point is Warren has to hide his mutation more then the others. Roger Cruz’s art look great. He did a double panel spread of Warren at the Iguaçu Falls that was breath taking. Jeff Parker got plenty of humor in there and does a great job with making it so natural. Loved when Iceman insulted Marvel Girl and we got the little black smoke over her head. This book is a bright light in the midst of many darker books. It has an all age feeling to it, but is not talking down to anyone.
Caliber #2 (of 5) – Writer Sam Sakar, Art Garrie Gastonny, Colors Imaginary Friends Studios. One thing Radical comics understands very well is that comics is a visual medium first. The art is this book is rock solid and with the coloring and special effects added in, the book is a pleasure to look at. There is a two page spread where Arthur picks up the handgun that acts as Excalibur and he fires it, that is very cool. The thing is a laser in the land of six guns. The overall idea of re-telling the King Arthur story in the old west is a good idea, but the first book gave us the thought the wielder of the weapon will be stopping a World War and I assume that means the gun has to be handed down generation to generation, but I’ll worry about the longer story later. This issue we have jumped ahead a few years Arthur is a young man and his Uncle takes him back to where he grew up. He is surrounded by people named Kay there is a girl named Gwen, the only thing is the mystic is not named Merlin, but Whitefeather is close enough in analogy. In this issue in a rage of righteous indignation, after his friend Kay was shot down, Arthur grabs Excalibur and calls out Kay’s murderer. The man whips out his gun ad Arthur shoots and almost vaporizes the man. Whitefeather (the Shaman who has been looking for the person who should wield the weapon) helps Arthur escape the wrath of the local law. Where this story has played a little fast and loose is why Arthur is important and why they are so quick to call him a murderer after they didn’t care about the way Kay was shot down. I feel like the background and set-up has not been explained well enough. Also I find it hard to believe this is a five issue mini-series, I have to believe this is part one of an ongoing saga.
Zombie Tales #1 – Three stories by three different groups. The War at Home Part 1 – Writer Joe R. Lansdale, Art Eduardo Barreto – I have not seen Eduardo’s art fro awhile and he did a great job with this story. Joe Lansdale makes no bones about it, that he is not writing an eight page story, but shorter bites of a longer Zombie tale (can’t help with the puns). The art saved this otherwise passable tale of a group of disabled vets trying to fight off Zombies. People Person – Writer Steve Niles, Art Daniel LaFrance. Steve did a great job of telling us a short Zombie tale that showed us love and devotion of a mother for her family that extended even after her death. Great macabre humor. The art was decent also and had a nice one page panel of a bizarre husband/wife reunion. Spring 2061 – Writer Kim Krizan, Art Jon Reed, Colors Pablo Quiligotti. Well this writer is no Chip Mosher or anything (that is a joke people), but she wrote a hell of a Zombie tale. I loved it. She puts us in a world where being a Zombie is the norm, humans are raised as a cattle and one woman wants to try and take back the world for humans. This story was full of pathos, a hero, macabre humor and more. I hope this is the beginning of this story because it is a really great twist on Zombie tales. I love BOOM for daring to do anthology books it is a pleasant change of pace to read in a market full of sameness.
Dan Dare #6 (of 7) – Writer Garth Ennis, Art Garry Eskine, Color A. Thiruneelakandan. This was another rock solid chapter in this little epic. It almost oozes it Britishness off each and every page. Dan Dare is the epitome of cool as he is about to be tortured but knows his troops are coming to save him. They stop the black hole menace, get back to their ships and launch the attack. Dan manages to dress down an Admiral and does with a live intercom to the troop’s amusement. This all sets-up the final showdown between Earth’s fleet and Mekon’s fleet and also between Dare and Mekon. This has been an entertaining ride and a great introduction to an old British character I never knew existed. I’m looking forward to the conclusion.
Sword #8 – Story, Illustrations, Book Design Jonathan Luna, Story, Script, Layouts Joshua Luna. This was a rather quiet issue as Dara and her friends make it to Nassau and begin their search for Zakros. We get a glimpse of Zakros and how he has and has not adjusted to living as a normal person. We see a glimpse of Dara’s past and her struggles in overcoming being crippled and that is about it. The last panel as Dara walks behind Zakros and he sees her in the mirror is a decent cliffhanger, but little happened in this chapter. I hope the series picks up as it has not been as strong as when it started. Also the weakness in the art is exaggerated in a story where nothing happens. There is no differentiation as to the shape of people’s faces and I laughed when Dara drew a picture of Zakros and it was the strongest drawing in the book. Still a good series, the pacing has just slowed down too much for my taste.
X-Men Legacy #212 – Writer Mike Carey, Present Day Sequence Pencils Scot Eaton, Inks John Dell and Andrew Hennessy, Colors Frank D’Armata, Flashback Sequences Art Mike Deodato, Colors Rain Beredo. I’m starting to get into this book a little bit more as it is obvious that Professor X has lost a good portion of his mind. He meets Gambit and has to read his mind to find out exactly who Gambit is and uses Gambit’s memories to fill in gaps in his memories. It is actually an interesting concept of what would your life look like if you relied on how every one else perceived you? You would have vastly different views of who you are in the same circumstance. At the same time Mike Carey has an overall story going on that involves Xavier’s childhood days and apparently genetic manipulation that has Mr. Sinestro involved. The art is decent, but the flashback artist is a much better artist. Also the styles are close enough as to make it harder to discern when we are switching from story present to past. I have a rant about the X-stuff that is building up in my mind that I may or may not post. Essentially it involves the fact that the X-verse has so much history it has made it impossible for any fan that leaves for a few years to come back into it.
Giant Sized Astonishing X-Men #1 – Writer Joss Whedon, Art John Cassaday, Colors Laura Martin. This book was killed by the large gap between issues. I almost didn’t even read the book. Then on top of that it was evident from the jump that Kitty Pryde is the one who is not making it back from this adventure and if I remember correctly she was in the beginning of Messiah Complex and then I believe just dropped out of that series. I guess that was an issue of the left and right hand not knowing what was going on at the same time. The main part of the story was okay, as Kitty is merged with a giant silver bullet that will destroyed the Earth when it hits. All of Earth’s heroes gather to stop it and the FF appears successful and then we find out they are all being duped into believing they are saving the world. I was never sure exactly why how they were being duped. Kitty saves the day by phasing this impossibly huge missile and allows it to just go through the earth. The collateral damage to all the electronics in a lot of buildings must have been enormous. Then we get an epilogue showing how everyone’s lives go on and we see a last shot of this missile just flying off into space with Kitty inside of it. I wonder what happens to the next planet she hits as this time around she was in mental contact with Emma to know when she was about to hit the Earth. One last note on the story, Joss Whedon shoots for cute little character moments, but totally missed on Spider-Man’s dialogue in my mind. The lines are okay, just felt wrong for the context. The art was gorgeous as always, John Cassaday’s work is always great looking, but I just think he works better with Ellis. I would love to see Ellis and Whedon’s scripts to see what direction is given as far as how the pages are laid out; as I believe one of Ellis’ gifts is to write to his artist’s strengths. Now someone please tell me that Cassaday is drawing Planetary #27!
Secret History of the Authority Hawksmoor #3 (of 6) – Write Mike Costa, Art Fiona Staples. This issue we really get to see a little bit more of what it means to “talk to cities”. I especially enjoyed the sequence where he goes back to a room that he can’t hear anything from and destroys the object that was blocking him. Jack is then attacked by someone who claims to have helped made Jack who he is. Jack goes after him only to find he has entered the giant robot that was defeated in issue #1. We also had a great opening sequence with Jack and Juliet, which served to give us the background on Jack. Fiona Staples art is progressing and getting better issue by issue. It is a very clean style that has an occasional sketchy quality to it that is very well done. I absolutely loved the expressions on Juliet’s face in various panels as it conveyed more then any amount of words could. This has been an enjoyable series that so far is delivering on what the title promises.
Firebreather #1 – Writer Phil Hester, Art Andy Kuhn, Colors Bill Crabtree. This is a “new” series that is picking up an old series that these creators did together. I missed that first series, so I walked in with some hesitation and was willing to drop this comic without much provocation. I got a big kick out of this book and I’m signed on for a few more issues at least. The premise was very easy to grasp (even if the actual idea was insane). A giant fire breathing dragon monster mated with a human woman and had a son. (How that mating occurred I don’t even know if I want to know.) The boy is now 16 years old and has enormous powers and wings, but still is human size. Dad and Mom have split and the United Nations has given Duncan’s Dad his own area of the Earth. It is a fun concept and especially amusing to see an orange skinned, four fingered, winged boy be accepted as just another guy in his community. The father tells him that he has to walk his own path as his monster blood will take him places his mother cannot go and his human blood will make him act in ways his father can’t understands. The art by Andy Kuhn has a lighter tone and is sparse in background detail, but tells the story very effectively. It appears to be a neat little take on a coming of age story.
Blue Beetle #27 – Writer Will Pfeifer, Pencils David Baldeon, Inks Steve Bird, Colors Guy Major. Will Pfeifer is a superior guest writer and my biggest complaint is I don’t see his name on enough DC books. He steps in and did a great date issue with Blue Beetle. This series is such a great series and it is nice to see Jamie’s progression from what do I do now to a hero who is ready to take on the bad guys. Having a magician for a girl friend does not hurt either. The menace was created by some rank amateur magicians who were ultimately defeated by Traci (Jamie’s girl friend). She defeated the kids while Beetle was trying to save a teacher from the monster’s grip and he could not do anything. That feeling of helplessness was new for Jamie as a hero and a revelation he did not like. The guest art was well done and similar enough in style to the regular artist so that it was not a jarring difference. This is a very good series from DC and is as good as Invincible was at the same time in its evolution.
Shadowpact #25 - Writer Matthew Sturges, Art Phil Winslade, Color Mike Atiyeh. This was a good last issue. The Shadowpact of the three different times all came together and figured out a plan to take out the Sun King. At the same time Danny’s brother sort of killed himself which gave turned Danny back into the Blue Devil but without any debt to the devil. This group was a bunch of “C” and “D” list characters but it was an entertaining read. I think that we often get caught up in everything needing to be an event or something along those lines and books that are just solid and entertaining fall by the wayside. Or it could be me just bemoaning the fates that not enough people enjoyed a book that I enjoyed.
Astounding Wolf-Man #6 – Writer Robert Kirkman, Art Jason Howard. I’m very glad to hear that this book is moving up to a monthly schedule as the series is stagnating. I’m not sure why, but Kirkman’s series have a way of being very slow building in the beginning and then taking off. I think Kirkman’s attention to laying the ground work and using all that he brings into a book is the reason why, but it works. This issue we see Wolf-Man’s daughter not adjusting to her new life, his wife apparently starting to stray, the Actioneers are kicking the crap out of him at the end of this issue. A major shift in where this series is going is promised for issue #7 and I believe Kirkman when he says it. So far this has been an entertaining series.
________________________________________________
Uncanny X-Men #498 – Writer Ed Brubaker, Art Mike Choi, Colors Sonia Oback. I’m hanging around to issue #500, but I just read that we are moving into another “X-event” and Marvel is about to drain my love of these characters right out of me. This issue we spend half of it learning how the person who is changing San Francisco into a hippie world started the process. She says her name is Martinque and I’m not sure if I’m supposed to know who she is or not. I have no clue how anyone new to the x-world is suppose to get into one of their books as they rely so heavily on what has happened before. The end of this part of the story is Cyclops and Emma are about to face off against Angel, Iceman, Hepizah and Warpath who are under control of the “Goddess” of San Francisco. The other part of the book is easier as it has Colossus, Wolverine and Nightcrawler being captured by the Russians and being tortured to find out what happen to all of their mutants. After a dramatic and daring escape they run into Omega Red. You don’t even need to know anything about Omega Red, as they show him to be very dangerous in the course of the story.
Resurrection #5 – Writer Marc Guggenheim, Art David Dumeer. This book needs to pick up the pace a little. The whole guy being stuck in the space ship for three issues is already old. In a book where we do not know any of the characters and we have a new setting, we need to see real story progress in each and every issue. If you are writing an episodic fiction story, that story needs to move faster in each chapter when you are monthly then if you were able to deliver the experience in weekly bites. Also the art work by David Dumeer is feeling a little rushed. After a few issues I’m used to seeing a little more growth in how an artist works and Dumeer’s layouts are very generic and tell the story, but are not adding to it. I think an inker may allow Dumeer more time to add more into his art. Overall I think the series is a good premise, but it is starting to lose my interest due to the slow pacing.
JSA Classified #38 – Writer Mike Barr, Art Shawn Martinbrough, Colors Allen Passalaqua. The last arc before this book is cancelled is another Wildcat story. I love Wildcat, but I wish they would just give him his own series. Shawn’s artwork was the high point of this book as his dark noir style fits well for a street fighter like Ted Grant. My only complaint was he drew him a little too young. The actual story was a modest little thing where Ted investigates something that seems off in the fight game. The last arc was Ted looking into a gym and this is too similar and it seems the only handle writers can get on Ted. At least the last arc explored who Ted is and this is just a simple adventure, not bad, just nothing special either.
Iron Fist #15 – Writer Matt Fraction, Pencils Khari Evans, Inks Victor Olazaba & Jelena Kevic Djurdjevic, Colors Paul Mounts. This issue almost caused me to cancel this book. Matt Fraction is beloved by a certain segment of comic fandom, but for me he seems to be better as a co-writer. This issue he seems to fall in love with his own cleverness as he tells the tales of Iron Fist Bei Bang-Wen. The story is Bei thinks he is smart, he screws up and cost a lot of lives, he loses his powers, he meets up with an Indian (from India) super hero who has a similar history, they escape from the colonial British jails (timeframe around 1840s), help Indian guy get his country right, gets his powers back and goes home. The writer seems to be in love with some phrases and his cleverness, for me it is a waste of paper. Fraction seems to break along generational lines and I think I’m in the wrong generation and I just don’t “get it”. I think I get it and he is not that good yet to be able to pull off some of his ideas on his own yet. They say artist need years to really hit their stride and I think writers often take years to become great writers. Geoff Johns has been a good writer, who recently I think has gotten even better. Morrison is doing his best work ever in the last few years. Fraction maybe a good or great writer in the future, but for me he is not there yet. Only my love for the character of Iron Fist has caused me to hang on for another issue or two.
New Avengers #41 – Writer Brian Bendis, Art Billy Tan, Colors Justin Ponsor. This issue we get a little background on the fact that the bad Shield group from the first arc on New Avengers were skrulls. It is also set-up up that Shanna could be a skrull. This issue did not work for me. First off the layouts were occasionally confusing as was the dialogue between Spider-Man, Ka-Zar and Shanna. I was enjoying the opening segments of Secret Invasion, now there are so many back stories to be filled in and this issue seems to also tie into the actual current continuity of the main mini-series. I have a bias as I’m no longer a huge Marvel fan and I know that can shade my opinions, but the last two background chapters have not been as strong and the series itself maybe in jeopardy as far as being even a good popcorn movie. The next chapter of the main mini-series is out next week, but the grade for Secret Invasion at this point is a C.
Action Comics #865 – Writer Geoff Johns, Art Jesus Merino, Colors Hi-Fi. This issue gave us some details on the Terrible Toyman and appeared to be rectifying or retro-conning some older story that I’m not familiar with. I believe DC had made Toyman into a pedophile and I think this story was trying to say it was a robot that did the horrible deed. I think Toyman is such a lame character that I could have cared less about the retro-con, but at least it allows him to be a more palatable villain in the future. Nice art job but Jesus, especially as he mixed up his styles nicely for the flashback sequences.
Perhapanauts #2 – Cancelled. For me this book had many problems, chief among them it was almost impossible to get into as a new reader. I felt so overwhelmed with the amount of new characters and situations that I had to try and grasp that I ended up only skim reading this issue. I feel like that Proof has drawn a lot of inspiration from this book, but is doing it better. Hopefully the fans of the original series are enjoying it, but I just felt like this book was too dense for a new reader to jump in and if I can’t get comfortable in a couple of issues I have to move on.
Salem Queen of Thorns #1 (of 4) – Cancelled. It pains me to have to pull the plug on a book from BOOM as I think so highly of that group, but this story was just not working for me. The whole Puritan setting and the heavy use of Christian mythology just did not work for me.
I decided on Final Crisis #1 for a few reasons. First the art was gorgeous and full of detail, second it was a more subtle beginning to a big “event” type of book, yet when you examine it in detail it was so packed full of information as to be unreal. Finally it delivered value, Marvel and DC are charging $3.99 for their event books, but we get 10 more pages of art and story with DC. In some ways it was a Grant Morrison week for me with Final Crisis, All Star Superman and Batman all being in the top books section.
I always think of my three sections as loved it, liked it and could have missed it and would not have cared if I did.
Final Crisis #1 (of 7) – Writer Grant Morrison, Art JG Jones, Colors Alex Sinclair. There is no way that you can not compare DC’s big event to Marvel’s big event. As I freely admit I am more of a DC person when it comes to the big two, but let’s face it art is a big deal and JG Jones is an artist and a half and his work is perfect for a big event, while Lenil Yu’s is not. First chapter versus first chapter, Secret Invasion started up with a little more of bang to it then Final Crisis, did, but I like Final Crisis better already (no big surprise). First off JG Jones work is just excellent. He is more of a realistic bent to his art, but has beautiful rendering and gives us so much information into each panel as to be stunning. JG Jones has to be one of the top three comic book artists in the field today. There are so many very talented people, but George Perez, JG Jones and John Cassaday are the top three in my mind. The story itself was very well done. We start with Anthro the first boy and see Metron give him fire, which causes all sorts of havoc. We then skip ahead and see Detective Turpin (an old Jack Kirby character) find Orion almost dead in a dumpster. Orion wakes half crazed and states that “They did not die! He is in you all…” The Green Lantern’s are involved; the Monitors are involved, the Dark Side Club is on our Earth, Libra offering the villains the answer to their dreams, it goes on and on and on. This issue has 32 pages and Grant fills it to the brim with events. If I had a complaint about this issue is the death of the Martian Manhunter was given only a couple of panels. Libra is giving the Human Flame his desire to see J’onn J’onzz killed and he is marched out and then stab with a flaming spear thru his heart. For a character that has been around for so long this was a quick and inglorious death. Another element that I liked was the fact that this book is a series of events leading up to something and not a typical crisis brewing and all the heroes gather. If the first chapter is any indication we might have a great big event in the works. They are so rare for in continuity books, but I have high hopes for this one.All Star Superman #11 – Writer Grant Morrison, Pencils Frank Quietly, Digital Inks and Colors
Jamie Grant. I’m running out of adjectives and ways to describe how good this comic is. Issue after issue after issue this book has been a piece of art. I’m also positive that once it is put together as a complete set in the Absolute format, it will read even better as a whole. We still have one chapter left, but this is the best Superman story ever done. This issue we have Lex create a potion to make him super for 24 hours, Superman and his robots fight the Tyrant Sun and out smart the use of Red Sun radiation, Clark Kent rush in to deliver the story of Superman’s death and then drop over apparently dead. The final panel super Lex blows out the side of the daily planet and floating in air declares “Clark is the least of your worries”. The story works as a straight super-hero adventure, as homage to what has come before and as a re-imagining of the Superman mythos. The script is matched by what is Frank Quietly’s best work ever. Each page is stunning and I imagine the secondary market for his original art on this book will be sky high.
Daredevil #107 – Writers Ed Brubaker and Greg Rucka, Artist Michael Lark and Stefano Gaudiano, Colors Matt Hollingsworth. The old Gotham Central creative team is back together for this arc on Daredevil and I loved this issue. Daredevil is still taking out his frustrations on the street thugs when Luke Cage comes by and tries to talk to him. Matt actually hits Luke and almost busts his hand. Matt takes off and Luke goes to Dakota. Luke is looking for someone to help stop an execution of a black man “Big” Ben Donovan, who has confessed to decapitating three children. We never get why Luke is involved or what he knows, but he wanted Matt to do his “lie detector” thing on “Big” Ben. As Matt is wrapped up in himself Dakota gets a recorded statement from Ben in hopes Matt can get a read off of it. She is mugged and told the let “Big” Ben die. Ultimately Matt does pick up the case and we have the start of our story. The art even seemed like it was stronger then normal this issue and it is always good with this art team. This is a great team and they really know how to do convincing and more street level type stories. I’m looking forward to the rest of the arc.
Batman #677 – Writer Grant Morrison, Pencils Tony Daniels, Inks Sandru Florea, Colors Guy Major. This was part 2 of the RIP story line and it is becoming very clear that this will be a very hard take down of Batman. Furthermore you can tell that Grant has been setting-up this story line for awhile. I also believe that this is just a middle point of Grant’s story about Batman. This issue we see Batman is losing it as he overly violent with a criminal he has caught. His obsession with the Black Glove has Gordon a little worried as he cannot find any references to the Black Glove. We also glimpse an additional element of Batman’s takedown as Thomas and Martha Wayne’s reputations are also being attacked. You get the feeling that everything that is happening and Batman’s odd actions have all been choreographed to bring about his downfall. The end scene was brutal as the Bat Cave has been destroyed and Alfred has been attacked. Grant is setting up a definitive run on this book and I think he has been setting it up since his first issue. I remember not being enthralled with Grant’s take on the X-Men in the beginning, but then when I read it as a whole I think it is the best run on that book in decades (since Claremont/Byrne). This run on Batman maybe the same deal and the story is just getting started. RIP is a climax point, but I do not think it is the end point. This was another strong issue and I’m looking forward to how this plays out. A final point is Tony Daniels is doing a great job on the art and has really moved up his game.
Thor #9 – Writer J. Michael Straczynski, Pencils Oliver Copiel, Inks Mark Morales, Danny Miki & John Dell, Colors Laura Martin. Oliver Copiel is really hitting the high water mark of his career with his art on this book. It has a strong realistic style that he exaggerates enough to make his gods seem godlike, and people seem like people. He has it all with great page layouts and design, facial expression, lighter scenes when needed and darker scenes with heavy blacks. This issue JMS show us a smoother and more subtle Loki as she starts to prey upon the minds of the Asgardians. It works because some of what she says is true as she starts to poison the heart and soul of Balder. Loki is as deceptive and two-timing as ever and while no longer a man, the same evil resides within. I hope this series gets collected as 12 issue runs, then I will be getting the hard cover collection of this run of Thor. JMS has been hitting it out of the park lately with Thor and The Twelve both being top series.
Batman Gotham After Midnight #1 (of 12) – Writer Steve Niles, Art Kelly Jones, Colors Michelle Madsen. With Steve Niles (the busiest writer in comics?) you almost always expect some turn or twist that will take you down a horror/supernatural path. Add Kelly Jones as the artist and the feeling grows even more assured. This issue we see Batman take out a newly escaped Scarecrow and wonder why his M.O. has changed. We see a new police lieutenant take credit fro Batman’s work and find out she is politically connected. We see a mysterious character who shows up at midnight who states “and it begins”, Batman building a crazy machine, Batman shot down by machine guns from a bunch of thugs and that is just in issue #1. I’m not sure where we are going with this book yet, but I really enjoyed the opening act. It was great to see Kelly Jones’ moody, dark and exaggerated style on Batman again. I love the impossible long and voluminous cape, the Bat ears each two feet long, the impossibly muscles that only Kelly can pull off. This is the type of start I want for a 12 issue maxi-series.
Northlanders #6 – Writer Brian Wood, Art David Gianfelice, Colors Dave McCaig. This continues to be a well done series. The opening sequence is Sven hacking, decapitating and just flat out killing a large group of men who have attacked him. Enna, the girl he has taken up with, acts as Sven’s conscious and she helps him to realize that he needs to be part of something and that his people need to be united. A group of warriors came to Sven looking to help him overthrown Gorm, as the battle is about to begin he is warned that a group of Saxons have just landed on their shores. This is a great historical fiction adventure that gives you a sense of what it might have been like to have lived in those times. Highly recommended.
Helen Killer #2 (of 4) – Created and Story by Andrew Kreisberg and Matthew Rice, Writer Andrew Kreisberg, Art Matthew Rice. What an opening panel. The first page is a full page splash of Helen (dressed appropriately for that time frame) kicking the head off and what we find out to be a dummy. We are immediately brought back into the series, just a perfect opening. This issue Helen goes off to be a secret service agent with Agent Blaylock. They arrive in the Pan American Exposition and get to work. Helen switches on here glasses and they allow her to see the aura’s of people. She tells Blaylock to stop the assassin, but he gets shots fired at the President. Helen has seen a black plume that represents such unbelievable evil she is almost compelled to follow it, as the glasses she wears give her powers, but fuel a growing hostility and darkness within her. Helen breaks into a robbery of some sort and gets into a heck of a fight and shows no mercy to her foes. The last panel it appears Helen has had a sword thrust thru her middle. Of course we know she survives, but I wander at what price. The artwork is great; Matthew uses the proper clothing, right cars, building, everything to put us in a time and place. Add to that his innate story telling sense and the book flows beautifully. The art is matched by the story and the wonderful way it works in historical fact with a fictional story. The recreation of McKinley’s assassination is melded into the overall story of Helen seamlessly and makes you feel like we just never heard of the fact that Helen Keller was there at the time. My only disappointment with the issue is that Lee and I did not get a pull quote for the back cover (kidding).________________________________________________
Green Lantern #31 – Writer Geoff Johns, Pencils Ivan Reis, Inks Oclair Albert, Colors Ranov Mayor. The secret origin of Hal Jordan continues with another fine issue. First off I have to say that Ivan Reis has gone from being a good artist to at times channeling Neal Adams (who is an art god). The double page spread of all the different GL’s as Hal is summoned to OA for training was drop dead gorgeous work. The actual issue was essentially Hal learning how to be a GL from Killowog and the set-up for getting Sinestro to Earth. Geoff Johns is doing a wonderful job of re-telling Hal’s origin and being so true to it, that you feel like he didn’t change a thing, yet he is weaving in his retro-con seamlessly. Geoff has had so many long and very good to great runs on books, but GL feels more and more like the book that will be mark as his seminal run.
Fables #73 – Writer Bill Willingham, Pencils Mark Buckingham, Inks Steve Leialoha, Andrew Pepoy & Mark Buckingham, Colors Lee Loughridge. You know a book is a great series when you know ever creators name in the credit box by heart. Although the extra inkers were a surprise and have been a recent trend in many, many comics. The war has started and this issue was a wonderful set-up. We see the airships run by Prince Charming, Fort Bravo run by Bigby, Site Zero with Briar Rose, Fabletown fortified and the Snow Queen and the Emperor conspiring against the attack. Having a huge complex story is a great thing especially since we have been leading up to for awhile, but to have it explained so well was magnificent. This is a book that I can’t wait for the next issue of and I know issue #75 should have some status quo changing events. WHY ARE WE NOT GETTING HARD COVER COLLECTIONS OF THIS BOOK! Actually I think the reason is that the trades sell so well, they don’t want to screw up a good thing.
Hercules #2 (of 5) – Radical is doing such a nice job on their two opening series and Hercules is my favorite right now. I love how we are being given a “realistic” view of the man Hercules. See my full review here.
Proof #8 – Writer Alexander Grecian, Art Riley Rossmo, Colors Fiona Staples. This book is just a fun book to read each and every issue. I also like that the stories arcs length seem to be what the story demands and not an artificial make every arc six issues to fit it into a trade. “The Company of Men” story line ends in three issues and it felt like the perfect length. I loved Proof going to the Colonel and just snapping his leg almost off. Autumn getting away and seeing her hatred of the group was also excellent. Riley’s artwork just gets better and better, his scene of the dinosaur crashing the party was great and only surpassed by his page of Proof breaking loose. The Lodge trapping the Colonel and his men was another nice touch. This is a first class series and the creators’ joy in producing this book is infectious to the reader.
Legion of Super-Heroes #42 – Writer Jim Shooter, Pencils Francis Manapul, Inks Livesay, Colors Jo Smith. It starts with mysterious new uniforms showing up and continues until we get Legionnaires being arrested all over the place. The middle of the book involves a great battle with a group of Legionnaires taking on the latest batch of destroyers. Since the destroyers adapt to any attack, the great way they continued to vary their fight was inventive and fun to read. It would make the old thinking man’s hero Adam Strange proud indeed. I have not heard officially from DC that Shooter is leaving, but that would be a crying shame as this book is rocking under his pen. He has crafted a great overall tale and still managed to incorporate sub plots, characterization and relationship building between members. Each issue has a lot to it.
Ultimate Spider-Man #122 – Writer Brian Bendis, Pencils Stuart Immonen, Inks Wade von Grawbadger, Colors Justin Ponsor. This was a terrific issue of Spider-Man. When Bendis writes Peter is a solo adventure it always works better. This issue Spider-Man gets beaten by a villain he has taken as a joke, the Shocker. Mary Jane happens to be hand when he is captured and gets Kitty to help and find Peter. While captured Peter learns the history of the Shocker and tells him he feels sorry for him and that just makes the Shocker madder. Peter is beaten up really badly and escapes by sure luck and really comes after the Shocker. Luckily Kitty and the police arrive and she stops Peter before he could really hurt the Shocker. Stuart Immonen’s art looked good and it was an all around well done issue.
Teen Titans #59 – Writer Sean McKeever, Pencils Eddy Barrows, Inks Ruy Rose, Colros Rod Reis. This arc with the Terror Titans has really kicked this series into a better place. This issue we see Robin, Wonder Girl and Blue Beetle get pulled into a trap set-up by Clock King. We also see that Clock King was selling these heroes to Boss Dark Side for his club fights. I love the way DC has incorporated the Dark Side Club and the reinvention of the New Gods into three or four titles already. The impact of what is happening in Final Crisis is not interfering with series, but the changes are being felt. The fight between Clock King and Robin was intense as we find out Clock King sees a few seconds into the future and can therefore know what Robin is about to do and counter it. This series is on a good upswing and working it way back up the charts.
X-Men First Class #12 – Writer Jeff Parker, Art Roger Cruz, Colors Val Staples. This was a good issue in this series. We got an issue that focused on Warren and we learn that being the Angel is not all it is cracked up to be. It was hammered over our heads a little bit too strongly, but the point is Warren has to hide his mutation more then the others. Roger Cruz’s art look great. He did a double panel spread of Warren at the Iguaçu Falls that was breath taking. Jeff Parker got plenty of humor in there and does a great job with making it so natural. Loved when Iceman insulted Marvel Girl and we got the little black smoke over her head. This book is a bright light in the midst of many darker books. It has an all age feeling to it, but is not talking down to anyone.
Caliber #2 (of 5) – Writer Sam Sakar, Art Garrie Gastonny, Colors Imaginary Friends Studios. One thing Radical comics understands very well is that comics is a visual medium first. The art is this book is rock solid and with the coloring and special effects added in, the book is a pleasure to look at. There is a two page spread where Arthur picks up the handgun that acts as Excalibur and he fires it, that is very cool. The thing is a laser in the land of six guns. The overall idea of re-telling the King Arthur story in the old west is a good idea, but the first book gave us the thought the wielder of the weapon will be stopping a World War and I assume that means the gun has to be handed down generation to generation, but I’ll worry about the longer story later. This issue we have jumped ahead a few years Arthur is a young man and his Uncle takes him back to where he grew up. He is surrounded by people named Kay there is a girl named Gwen, the only thing is the mystic is not named Merlin, but Whitefeather is close enough in analogy. In this issue in a rage of righteous indignation, after his friend Kay was shot down, Arthur grabs Excalibur and calls out Kay’s murderer. The man whips out his gun ad Arthur shoots and almost vaporizes the man. Whitefeather (the Shaman who has been looking for the person who should wield the weapon) helps Arthur escape the wrath of the local law. Where this story has played a little fast and loose is why Arthur is important and why they are so quick to call him a murderer after they didn’t care about the way Kay was shot down. I feel like the background and set-up has not been explained well enough. Also I find it hard to believe this is a five issue mini-series, I have to believe this is part one of an ongoing saga.
Zombie Tales #1 – Three stories by three different groups. The War at Home Part 1 – Writer Joe R. Lansdale, Art Eduardo Barreto – I have not seen Eduardo’s art fro awhile and he did a great job with this story. Joe Lansdale makes no bones about it, that he is not writing an eight page story, but shorter bites of a longer Zombie tale (can’t help with the puns). The art saved this otherwise passable tale of a group of disabled vets trying to fight off Zombies. People Person – Writer Steve Niles, Art Daniel LaFrance. Steve did a great job of telling us a short Zombie tale that showed us love and devotion of a mother for her family that extended even after her death. Great macabre humor. The art was decent also and had a nice one page panel of a bizarre husband/wife reunion. Spring 2061 – Writer Kim Krizan, Art Jon Reed, Colors Pablo Quiligotti. Well this writer is no Chip Mosher or anything (that is a joke people), but she wrote a hell of a Zombie tale. I loved it. She puts us in a world where being a Zombie is the norm, humans are raised as a cattle and one woman wants to try and take back the world for humans. This story was full of pathos, a hero, macabre humor and more. I hope this is the beginning of this story because it is a really great twist on Zombie tales. I love BOOM for daring to do anthology books it is a pleasant change of pace to read in a market full of sameness.
Dan Dare #6 (of 7) – Writer Garth Ennis, Art Garry Eskine, Color A. Thiruneelakandan. This was another rock solid chapter in this little epic. It almost oozes it Britishness off each and every page. Dan Dare is the epitome of cool as he is about to be tortured but knows his troops are coming to save him. They stop the black hole menace, get back to their ships and launch the attack. Dan manages to dress down an Admiral and does with a live intercom to the troop’s amusement. This all sets-up the final showdown between Earth’s fleet and Mekon’s fleet and also between Dare and Mekon. This has been an entertaining ride and a great introduction to an old British character I never knew existed. I’m looking forward to the conclusion.
Sword #8 – Story, Illustrations, Book Design Jonathan Luna, Story, Script, Layouts Joshua Luna. This was a rather quiet issue as Dara and her friends make it to Nassau and begin their search for Zakros. We get a glimpse of Zakros and how he has and has not adjusted to living as a normal person. We see a glimpse of Dara’s past and her struggles in overcoming being crippled and that is about it. The last panel as Dara walks behind Zakros and he sees her in the mirror is a decent cliffhanger, but little happened in this chapter. I hope the series picks up as it has not been as strong as when it started. Also the weakness in the art is exaggerated in a story where nothing happens. There is no differentiation as to the shape of people’s faces and I laughed when Dara drew a picture of Zakros and it was the strongest drawing in the book. Still a good series, the pacing has just slowed down too much for my taste.
X-Men Legacy #212 – Writer Mike Carey, Present Day Sequence Pencils Scot Eaton, Inks John Dell and Andrew Hennessy, Colors Frank D’Armata, Flashback Sequences Art Mike Deodato, Colors Rain Beredo. I’m starting to get into this book a little bit more as it is obvious that Professor X has lost a good portion of his mind. He meets Gambit and has to read his mind to find out exactly who Gambit is and uses Gambit’s memories to fill in gaps in his memories. It is actually an interesting concept of what would your life look like if you relied on how every one else perceived you? You would have vastly different views of who you are in the same circumstance. At the same time Mike Carey has an overall story going on that involves Xavier’s childhood days and apparently genetic manipulation that has Mr. Sinestro involved. The art is decent, but the flashback artist is a much better artist. Also the styles are close enough as to make it harder to discern when we are switching from story present to past. I have a rant about the X-stuff that is building up in my mind that I may or may not post. Essentially it involves the fact that the X-verse has so much history it has made it impossible for any fan that leaves for a few years to come back into it.
Giant Sized Astonishing X-Men #1 – Writer Joss Whedon, Art John Cassaday, Colors Laura Martin. This book was killed by the large gap between issues. I almost didn’t even read the book. Then on top of that it was evident from the jump that Kitty Pryde is the one who is not making it back from this adventure and if I remember correctly she was in the beginning of Messiah Complex and then I believe just dropped out of that series. I guess that was an issue of the left and right hand not knowing what was going on at the same time. The main part of the story was okay, as Kitty is merged with a giant silver bullet that will destroyed the Earth when it hits. All of Earth’s heroes gather to stop it and the FF appears successful and then we find out they are all being duped into believing they are saving the world. I was never sure exactly why how they were being duped. Kitty saves the day by phasing this impossibly huge missile and allows it to just go through the earth. The collateral damage to all the electronics in a lot of buildings must have been enormous. Then we get an epilogue showing how everyone’s lives go on and we see a last shot of this missile just flying off into space with Kitty inside of it. I wonder what happens to the next planet she hits as this time around she was in mental contact with Emma to know when she was about to hit the Earth. One last note on the story, Joss Whedon shoots for cute little character moments, but totally missed on Spider-Man’s dialogue in my mind. The lines are okay, just felt wrong for the context. The art was gorgeous as always, John Cassaday’s work is always great looking, but I just think he works better with Ellis. I would love to see Ellis and Whedon’s scripts to see what direction is given as far as how the pages are laid out; as I believe one of Ellis’ gifts is to write to his artist’s strengths. Now someone please tell me that Cassaday is drawing Planetary #27!
Secret History of the Authority Hawksmoor #3 (of 6) – Write Mike Costa, Art Fiona Staples. This issue we really get to see a little bit more of what it means to “talk to cities”. I especially enjoyed the sequence where he goes back to a room that he can’t hear anything from and destroys the object that was blocking him. Jack is then attacked by someone who claims to have helped made Jack who he is. Jack goes after him only to find he has entered the giant robot that was defeated in issue #1. We also had a great opening sequence with Jack and Juliet, which served to give us the background on Jack. Fiona Staples art is progressing and getting better issue by issue. It is a very clean style that has an occasional sketchy quality to it that is very well done. I absolutely loved the expressions on Juliet’s face in various panels as it conveyed more then any amount of words could. This has been an enjoyable series that so far is delivering on what the title promises.
Firebreather #1 – Writer Phil Hester, Art Andy Kuhn, Colors Bill Crabtree. This is a “new” series that is picking up an old series that these creators did together. I missed that first series, so I walked in with some hesitation and was willing to drop this comic without much provocation. I got a big kick out of this book and I’m signed on for a few more issues at least. The premise was very easy to grasp (even if the actual idea was insane). A giant fire breathing dragon monster mated with a human woman and had a son. (How that mating occurred I don’t even know if I want to know.) The boy is now 16 years old and has enormous powers and wings, but still is human size. Dad and Mom have split and the United Nations has given Duncan’s Dad his own area of the Earth. It is a fun concept and especially amusing to see an orange skinned, four fingered, winged boy be accepted as just another guy in his community. The father tells him that he has to walk his own path as his monster blood will take him places his mother cannot go and his human blood will make him act in ways his father can’t understands. The art by Andy Kuhn has a lighter tone and is sparse in background detail, but tells the story very effectively. It appears to be a neat little take on a coming of age story.
Blue Beetle #27 – Writer Will Pfeifer, Pencils David Baldeon, Inks Steve Bird, Colors Guy Major. Will Pfeifer is a superior guest writer and my biggest complaint is I don’t see his name on enough DC books. He steps in and did a great date issue with Blue Beetle. This series is such a great series and it is nice to see Jamie’s progression from what do I do now to a hero who is ready to take on the bad guys. Having a magician for a girl friend does not hurt either. The menace was created by some rank amateur magicians who were ultimately defeated by Traci (Jamie’s girl friend). She defeated the kids while Beetle was trying to save a teacher from the monster’s grip and he could not do anything. That feeling of helplessness was new for Jamie as a hero and a revelation he did not like. The guest art was well done and similar enough in style to the regular artist so that it was not a jarring difference. This is a very good series from DC and is as good as Invincible was at the same time in its evolution.
Shadowpact #25 - Writer Matthew Sturges, Art Phil Winslade, Color Mike Atiyeh. This was a good last issue. The Shadowpact of the three different times all came together and figured out a plan to take out the Sun King. At the same time Danny’s brother sort of killed himself which gave turned Danny back into the Blue Devil but without any debt to the devil. This group was a bunch of “C” and “D” list characters but it was an entertaining read. I think that we often get caught up in everything needing to be an event or something along those lines and books that are just solid and entertaining fall by the wayside. Or it could be me just bemoaning the fates that not enough people enjoyed a book that I enjoyed.
Astounding Wolf-Man #6 – Writer Robert Kirkman, Art Jason Howard. I’m very glad to hear that this book is moving up to a monthly schedule as the series is stagnating. I’m not sure why, but Kirkman’s series have a way of being very slow building in the beginning and then taking off. I think Kirkman’s attention to laying the ground work and using all that he brings into a book is the reason why, but it works. This issue we see Wolf-Man’s daughter not adjusting to her new life, his wife apparently starting to stray, the Actioneers are kicking the crap out of him at the end of this issue. A major shift in where this series is going is promised for issue #7 and I believe Kirkman when he says it. So far this has been an entertaining series.
________________________________________________
Uncanny X-Men #498 – Writer Ed Brubaker, Art Mike Choi, Colors Sonia Oback. I’m hanging around to issue #500, but I just read that we are moving into another “X-event” and Marvel is about to drain my love of these characters right out of me. This issue we spend half of it learning how the person who is changing San Francisco into a hippie world started the process. She says her name is Martinque and I’m not sure if I’m supposed to know who she is or not. I have no clue how anyone new to the x-world is suppose to get into one of their books as they rely so heavily on what has happened before. The end of this part of the story is Cyclops and Emma are about to face off against Angel, Iceman, Hepizah and Warpath who are under control of the “Goddess” of San Francisco. The other part of the book is easier as it has Colossus, Wolverine and Nightcrawler being captured by the Russians and being tortured to find out what happen to all of their mutants. After a dramatic and daring escape they run into Omega Red. You don’t even need to know anything about Omega Red, as they show him to be very dangerous in the course of the story.
Resurrection #5 – Writer Marc Guggenheim, Art David Dumeer. This book needs to pick up the pace a little. The whole guy being stuck in the space ship for three issues is already old. In a book where we do not know any of the characters and we have a new setting, we need to see real story progress in each and every issue. If you are writing an episodic fiction story, that story needs to move faster in each chapter when you are monthly then if you were able to deliver the experience in weekly bites. Also the art work by David Dumeer is feeling a little rushed. After a few issues I’m used to seeing a little more growth in how an artist works and Dumeer’s layouts are very generic and tell the story, but are not adding to it. I think an inker may allow Dumeer more time to add more into his art. Overall I think the series is a good premise, but it is starting to lose my interest due to the slow pacing.
JSA Classified #38 – Writer Mike Barr, Art Shawn Martinbrough, Colors Allen Passalaqua. The last arc before this book is cancelled is another Wildcat story. I love Wildcat, but I wish they would just give him his own series. Shawn’s artwork was the high point of this book as his dark noir style fits well for a street fighter like Ted Grant. My only complaint was he drew him a little too young. The actual story was a modest little thing where Ted investigates something that seems off in the fight game. The last arc was Ted looking into a gym and this is too similar and it seems the only handle writers can get on Ted. At least the last arc explored who Ted is and this is just a simple adventure, not bad, just nothing special either.
Iron Fist #15 – Writer Matt Fraction, Pencils Khari Evans, Inks Victor Olazaba & Jelena Kevic Djurdjevic, Colors Paul Mounts. This issue almost caused me to cancel this book. Matt Fraction is beloved by a certain segment of comic fandom, but for me he seems to be better as a co-writer. This issue he seems to fall in love with his own cleverness as he tells the tales of Iron Fist Bei Bang-Wen. The story is Bei thinks he is smart, he screws up and cost a lot of lives, he loses his powers, he meets up with an Indian (from India) super hero who has a similar history, they escape from the colonial British jails (timeframe around 1840s), help Indian guy get his country right, gets his powers back and goes home. The writer seems to be in love with some phrases and his cleverness, for me it is a waste of paper. Fraction seems to break along generational lines and I think I’m in the wrong generation and I just don’t “get it”. I think I get it and he is not that good yet to be able to pull off some of his ideas on his own yet. They say artist need years to really hit their stride and I think writers often take years to become great writers. Geoff Johns has been a good writer, who recently I think has gotten even better. Morrison is doing his best work ever in the last few years. Fraction maybe a good or great writer in the future, but for me he is not there yet. Only my love for the character of Iron Fist has caused me to hang on for another issue or two.
New Avengers #41 – Writer Brian Bendis, Art Billy Tan, Colors Justin Ponsor. This issue we get a little background on the fact that the bad Shield group from the first arc on New Avengers were skrulls. It is also set-up up that Shanna could be a skrull. This issue did not work for me. First off the layouts were occasionally confusing as was the dialogue between Spider-Man, Ka-Zar and Shanna. I was enjoying the opening segments of Secret Invasion, now there are so many back stories to be filled in and this issue seems to also tie into the actual current continuity of the main mini-series. I have a bias as I’m no longer a huge Marvel fan and I know that can shade my opinions, but the last two background chapters have not been as strong and the series itself maybe in jeopardy as far as being even a good popcorn movie. The next chapter of the main mini-series is out next week, but the grade for Secret Invasion at this point is a C.
Action Comics #865 – Writer Geoff Johns, Art Jesus Merino, Colors Hi-Fi. This issue gave us some details on the Terrible Toyman and appeared to be rectifying or retro-conning some older story that I’m not familiar with. I believe DC had made Toyman into a pedophile and I think this story was trying to say it was a robot that did the horrible deed. I think Toyman is such a lame character that I could have cared less about the retro-con, but at least it allows him to be a more palatable villain in the future. Nice art job but Jesus, especially as he mixed up his styles nicely for the flashback sequences.
Perhapanauts #2 – Cancelled. For me this book had many problems, chief among them it was almost impossible to get into as a new reader. I felt so overwhelmed with the amount of new characters and situations that I had to try and grasp that I ended up only skim reading this issue. I feel like that Proof has drawn a lot of inspiration from this book, but is doing it better. Hopefully the fans of the original series are enjoying it, but I just felt like this book was too dense for a new reader to jump in and if I can’t get comfortable in a couple of issues I have to move on.
Salem Queen of Thorns #1 (of 4) – Cancelled. It pains me to have to pull the plug on a book from BOOM as I think so highly of that group, but this story was just not working for me. The whole Puritan setting and the heavy use of Christian mythology just did not work for me.
I decided on Final Crisis #1 for a few reasons. First the art was gorgeous and full of detail, second it was a more subtle beginning to a big “event” type of book, yet when you examine it in detail it was so packed full of information as to be unreal. Finally it delivered value, Marvel and DC are charging $3.99 for their event books, but we get 10 more pages of art and story with DC. In some ways it was a Grant Morrison week for me with Final Crisis, All Star Superman and Batman all being in the top books section.
I always think of my three sections as loved it, liked it and could have missed it and would not have cared if I did.
Monday, June 02, 2008
What I’m Getting Wednesday
June begins and we are back to a more normalized cycle with a four week month, the big events in full swing and DC’s newest weekly is starting up. As much as I hated Countdown, I believe Trinity has a chance to be a really good book. I have decided to go with a lot of the official hype for each one of the books as there is no sense in re-inventing the wheel. I will add a comment or two on occasion and reserve my prerogative to shorten the hype or skip it all together.
Atom #24 – This book has become one of the best series coming out of DC. Rememder has really made this into a great adventure of the wild and wondrous. The hype “As The Atom fights the reprehensible Worm, past and future become entangled, hurling The Mighty Mite into a dismal universe dominated by the twisted new Chronos. And what is Ryan Choi's real connection to Ray Palmer? The truth will leave the fate of the world on the shoulders of The Atom! Guest starring Booster Gold!”
Detective Comics #845 – The last issue before this book starts to tie-in into “RIP”.
The official word “A killer stalks the city, taxing the wits of Batman, the Riddler and every other detective in Gotham. The Dark Knight's quest to unravel the truth behind the seemingly unrelated murders is complicated by the surprise return of a fan-favorite character. What sinister secret lies at the bottom of the gruesome murders plaguing Gotham City?”
House of Mystery #2 – This series looks like it could be the next big thing from Vertigo. The first issue was excellent and this issue sounds great also. The hype “Meet feisty, young, almost-architect Fig Keele, who just happens to be running for her life. Unfortunately for Fig, she's ended up in the House of Mystery, a strange place like something out of her nightmares, where the bizarre inhabitants tending bar demand stories from visiting patrons to cover their tabs. And one of the customers tells such a tale — detailing the life of a supernatural process server who discovers an undersea kingdom — illustrated by multiple Eisner Award-winner Jill Thompson”
Infinity Inc. #10 – This series has me interested. I like the fact that all the people Luthor
screwed with are starting to develop powers even after he turned them off. Pete Woods as artist is also a big plus. The company line “It's an issue of revelations, as the Bogeyman's identity is exposed, Mercy proves something to herself and the team, but at a horrible cost, and the man behind the anti-Infinity Inc. movement stands revealed. But is he merely a guy with a bone to pick, or much, much more? The newly-suited Infinity Inc.'s first mission concludes — for better or worse.”
Jonah Hex #32 – Jordi Bernet seems to draw every third issue or so of this book and that is a heck of a treat. I love this series and hope it never ends; it is the best western on the shelves and an excellent series period. The hype “Jonah Hex travels to Mexico just in time for the Dia De Los Muertos celebration, and is hired by a spurned husband seeking revenge on the man who stole his wife's heart. But Hex will have to tread carefully, or he will face the wrath of...the Matador!”
Justice Society of America #16 – Wow, we are getting two issues of this
series in a very short time frame. The company hype “The beginning of the end of the ever-growing Justice Society starts with a new storyline! In the first chapter of "Gog," meet Earth's future savior — the one, true Gog — as he offers the Justice Society of America something many of the members can't refuse. But the controversial goodwill threatens to splinter the team, and it's up to Alan, Jay and Wildcat to hold it together.”
Manhunter #31 – If ever a book deserved a re-launch with a new #1, this series is it. This book has proved to have more lives that a cat, as it has struggled to remain above the cancellation line all the time. I think this has been a good series and I hope it makes it for at least another 2 years. DC says “Los Angeles is Manhunter's town — so when Kate Spencer learns of the disappearance of hundreds of women along the Mexican border, she's on the case both as law-breaking D.A. and costumed vigilante. Meanwhile, Kate's bloodline tie to the JSA returns to haunt her — and it looks like her sidekick's most notorious super-villain ex-boss is doing the same to him.”
Midnighter #20 – The final issue in this series that started on a high note
and ended on a high note, but the middle guaranteed its cancellation. The word “Assassin8 has managed to take out almost all of the Authority. The only thing standing between him and complete victory is the Midnighter — and Midnighter wants serious revenge!“
Nightwing #145 – If there were awards for most improved series this book would win. This is now just a top notch series from DC. The hype “As the stakes get higher, Nightwing finds not only his own life in danger, but quite possibly the future of the entire country. Talia's grand new plans take shape thanks to the forced assistance of a kidnapped Mother of Champions now under Creighton's complete control.”
Rann Thanagar Holy War #2 (of 8) – This was a surprise mini-series as the
convoluted nature of what had been going on made me wonder if I would care with this mini-series. Last issue Starlin and Lim set the table perfectly and I’m in for this ride. The company hype “The cosmic event of the summer continues! Who — or what — has been raiding the timestream and plucking creatures from Rann's past? Adam Strange, Hawkman, Starfire and company are about to find out as they come face-to-face with a T-Rex!”
Robin Spoiler Special #1 – If comics were really getting more adult, this could be a very different book. Not sure why we needed a special, why not just the next issue of Robin. The word “All is revealed in this special when Robin and Spoiler team up to take down a kidnapping ring, hit up an illegal warehouse party and finish Tim's algebra homework; just another day in the life of a teenaged vigilante super-hero! Plus, even more Robin doesn't know: Spoiler's secret identity in another country, in another life - one she can never leave behind.”
Showcase Presents the Haunted Tank TP Volume 2 – My fondness for this
material needs to get a reality check as I have way too many of these floating around now and will never get a chance to read them all. Here is what you get “Written by Robert Kanigher and Joe Kubert; Art by Kubert, Russ Heath, Irv Novick, Mike Sekowsky and others; Cover by Kubert 500 pages of classic war stories, from the pages of G.I. COMBAT #120-157 (1966-1973)!” All for only $17.
Supergirl #30 – I swear that I have liked this series lately and no one else will admit to it, but there have to some fans of this book. The hype “Supergirl crossed a line no hero should, promising a dying boy she'd cure his cancer. Now she's prepared to break the universe's rules of life and death and betray the trust of two heroes in service of her impossible quest. Regardless of the outcome, there will be major consequences for the Teen of Steel!”
Tor #2 (of 6) – This is Joe Kubert returning to one of his characters. Joe is a
true master of this art form. The hype “As Tor continues his journey through the world he's just discovered, he meets a group of prehistoric men who accept him as one of their own. However, a mistake could prove deadly when the tribe encounters a man-eating sabretooth tiger.”
Trinity #1 – DC’s newest weekly series begins and it can’t be as bad as Countdown, and it is self-contained, so it has a chance to be good with Busiek and Bagley handling the front half of the book ever week. The hype “The lead feature explores the unusual bond — and importance — of DC's top three characters, Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman, as a mysterious dream links them together and may prophesy important changes in their trinity! Plus, a co-feature in issue #1 explores the mysterious connection between several villains who are watching the Trinity —as well as the near future for these characters and their surrounding world!”
War That Time Forgot #2 (of 12) – Last issue was just okay and for a 12
issue storyline it needs to be better then okay, so I’m going in with my eye on dropping this series. The company line “Heroes and legends from across time collide! Marooned on an island with warriors from every era in history our heroes find that this strange environment, already crawling with prehistoric creatures, has more deadly secrets to reveal! Also, the arrival of more combatants, including Viking Prince!”
Brit #6 - The official hype “The endgame is HERE! The mastermind behind the current troubles Brit has experienced: EXPOSED! Brit's sister's name: REVEALED! All this and the stage is set for the next senses-shattering story arc, starting next issue! If you haven't been reading Brit, this is the one to get.” Solicited for release in JANUARY!
Noble Causes #34 – This is a strong series to me and it has been very
accessible coming on board as I did after the five year jump. This has been a great job of allowing a new reader access to the book. The hype line “The reinvigorated series continues with a villain straight from the pages of DYNAMO 5! The Noble family is hot on the trail of the super- villain called Bonechill, because he's the only person who can save Frost's life!”
Abe Sapien The Drowning #5 (of 5) - This has been a terrific series and it has been a showcase for artist Jason Shawn Alexander, who is continuing to get better and better. The company hype “Abe comes face to face with the power that has protected Saint Sbastien for centuries in this breathtaking conclusion to his first solo miniseries. Written by Hellboy creator Mike Mignola, and featuring the haunting art of Jason Shawn Alexander (Damn Nation, The Secret, The Escapists), The Drowning is the story of Hellboy mainstay Abe Sapien trying to save a cursed island and its doomed inhabitants.”
Conan Born on the Battlefield HC – I’m picking this up as it collects all the
spread out chapters that Busiek and Ruth did to tell an origin tale of Conan. It was so well done that I wanted a collected edition and a $25 hard cover is a good deal. The hype “Writer Kurt Busiek and artist Greg Ruth team up to give you the story of Conan's early life, from his birth on a Cimmerian battlefield to his coming-of-age as a warrior in the pivotal Battle of Venarium. Sewing the seeds of the Barbarian's momentous career, this chronicle of Conan's youthful conquests – both martial and carnal -- also showcases master storytellers Busiek and Ruth's work at its finest.”
Grimm Fairy Tales #27 - The company line “3 blind mice, see how they run - and run for their lives they will when Belinda gets a hold of them! When three conmen meet a lonely old woman who puts them up for free they think they've hit the jackpot. As they freeload off of their sweet hostess they concoct a scheme to rob her blind. But the crooks soon come to realize that in the world of Grimm Fairy Tales, nothing ever goes as planned!” This is a very uneven book and I’m always wavering on canceling this title.
Tales From Wonderland Mad Hatter – The hype line “A local hero has
somehow been thrown into insanity as he attempts to adapt to a world intent on taking his mind. But he soon realizes that there is only way to adapt to the un-adaptable. You know how the saying goes: 'If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!' Discover the origin of the infamous Mad Hatter in an issue that will leave readers jaw-dropped! Features part two of an eight-page back-up story that will reveal the true origin and discovery of the place known as Wonderland." The Wonderland books have been the best material from Zenoscope.
Wormwood Calamari Rising TP - I simply love this work by Ben Templesmith. Especially as he never seems to take himself too seriously. A lot of fun as long as you are not an overly sensitive type. The hype “Just when Wormwood thought he could finally have that quiet drink without worrying about the world coming to an end, or a friend with a parasitic infection trying to kill him, The Brotherhood of the Calamari decide to crash the party. Since their last meeting, they've tracked him across the thousand million dimensional possibilities of existence‹and this time the entire Squideeverse is with them. Wormwood is going to learn the hard way he can't keep running from his problems as his oldest foe now threatens his favorite watering hole, Earth, with absorption into the Calamari group mind. Complete with additional sketches and doodlings.”
Avengers Invaders #2 (of 12) – This is another 12 part mini-series that was just okay, so I have
reservations about how long I will hang on to this series. The company line “The cross-time team-up of the year continues with the award winning team behind EARTH X, Justice and Project: Superpowers! With World War II's greatest heroes mysteriously transported to 2008, it takes the Mighty Avengers to bring them in before the world realizes that the Invaders are back…including the original Captain America. But will Iron Man and S.H.I.E.L.D. have enough firepower to hold them…or do the Invaders have everyone just where they want them?”
Criminal 2 #3 – I know this book is a labor of love for Brubaker and Phillips and it is a better series then many others on the shelves, but the comic fan base does not support titles like this and Scalped like you would hope they would. I think the mind set of too many of the fans is comics are for super heroes only and when they want a different type of entertainment they go elsewhere. Put all the comics into a book store setting and Scalped and Criminal probably outsell any super hero book. The hype “*Female of the Species*” is the final piece to the noir puzzle of these three stories of crime and murder in the early 1970s. Told from the sympathetic POV of a Femme Fatale on her path to one final score and the revenge she’s been waiting years to get. A heartbreaking look into the other side of a noir tradition.”
Haunt of Horror Lovecraft #1 (of 3) – The hype “Horror comics legend RICHARD CORBEN
(HAUNT OF HORROR: EDGAR ALLAN POE) brings you a new 3-issue limited series that offers eerie new spins on the poems and short stories of H.P. Lovecraft.” Putting Corben and Lovecraft together is a natural.
Nova #14 – This has been a solid series from Marvel. The company line “Continuing one of the wildest Galactus and Silver Surfer stories ever! He’s got the power of the entire Nova Force. He’s faced down the likes of Sphinx and Annihilus. But is the Human Rocket even in the same league as the Devourer of Worlds and his most famous herald? And what the blue blazes can Nova do when he finds himself the only thing standing between the big G and his next super-sized mega-meal?”
Secret Invasions #3 (of 8) – I hope this is a decent issue as I’m starting to
sour on this event. The company line “THE BLOCKBUSTER EVENT continues. Its Avenger versus Avenger. Hero versus hero! Norman Osborn versus Captain Marvel?? The Initiative versus an army of Super-Skrulls? Is Tony Stark really a- -? And who's that guy with an eye patch coming to save the day?? And, oh man, who did he bring with him?” Plus I’m still ticked they are charging $4 for this and only giving us 22 pages.
Ultimate Origins #1 (of 5) – I was going to skip this book, but it is a relatively light week and I like Jackson Guice’s art work, so I decided to see if issue #1 is intriguing or not. The hype “This is it! The story that finally reveals the conspiracies behind the entire Ultimate Universe! When they first met, Bruce Banner mysteriously warned Spider-Man that "Everything is connected." Now it's time to discover the jaw-dropping secrets that men have fought and died to protect. From the dark days of World War II to the frightening present, journey through history to learn what's really behind the Super Soldier and Weapon X programs–and how heroes such as Captain America, Nick Fury and Wolverine have more in common than codenames and costumes.”
Young X-Men #3 – I’m giving this book more rope then it deserves so every issue is a test at
this point. The hype “It’s the Young X-Men vs. the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants! A traitor is revealed and the casualties mount as the team goes to battle. We hope there are Young X-Men left when the smoke clears.”
Well that is a wrap for this week. I actually prefer this method of listing out what I’m getting as to how I was doing it. The unoffical tally for this week was two dinosaur covers and two "jaw droppings" in the hype.
On a personal and sad note I was at the game where Manny Ramirez hit his 500th home run and it was sad that O’s fans were outnumbered probably 3 to 1 to Red Sox fans at the O’s stadium. It would have been okay if we had won, but alas it was not to be.
Atom #24 – This book has become one of the best series coming out of DC. Rememder has really made this into a great adventure of the wild and wondrous. The hype “As The Atom fights the reprehensible Worm, past and future become entangled, hurling The Mighty Mite into a dismal universe dominated by the twisted new Chronos. And what is Ryan Choi's real connection to Ray Palmer? The truth will leave the fate of the world on the shoulders of The Atom! Guest starring Booster Gold!”Detective Comics #845 – The last issue before this book starts to tie-in into “RIP”.
The official word “A killer stalks the city, taxing the wits of Batman, the Riddler and every other detective in Gotham. The Dark Knight's quest to unravel the truth behind the seemingly unrelated murders is complicated by the surprise return of a fan-favorite character. What sinister secret lies at the bottom of the gruesome murders plaguing Gotham City?” 
House of Mystery #2 – This series looks like it could be the next big thing from Vertigo. The first issue was excellent and this issue sounds great also. The hype “Meet feisty, young, almost-architect Fig Keele, who just happens to be running for her life. Unfortunately for Fig, she's ended up in the House of Mystery, a strange place like something out of her nightmares, where the bizarre inhabitants tending bar demand stories from visiting patrons to cover their tabs. And one of the customers tells such a tale — detailing the life of a supernatural process server who discovers an undersea kingdom — illustrated by multiple Eisner Award-winner Jill Thompson” Infinity Inc. #10 – This series has me interested. I like the fact that all the people Luthor
screwed with are starting to develop powers even after he turned them off. Pete Woods as artist is also a big plus. The company line “It's an issue of revelations, as the Bogeyman's identity is exposed, Mercy proves something to herself and the team, but at a horrible cost, and the man behind the anti-Infinity Inc. movement stands revealed. But is he merely a guy with a bone to pick, or much, much more? The newly-suited Infinity Inc.'s first mission concludes — for better or worse.” 
Jonah Hex #32 – Jordi Bernet seems to draw every third issue or so of this book and that is a heck of a treat. I love this series and hope it never ends; it is the best western on the shelves and an excellent series period. The hype “Jonah Hex travels to Mexico just in time for the Dia De Los Muertos celebration, and is hired by a spurned husband seeking revenge on the man who stole his wife's heart. But Hex will have to tread carefully, or he will face the wrath of...the Matador!”Justice Society of America #16 – Wow, we are getting two issues of this
series in a very short time frame. The company hype “The beginning of the end of the ever-growing Justice Society starts with a new storyline! In the first chapter of "Gog," meet Earth's future savior — the one, true Gog — as he offers the Justice Society of America something many of the members can't refuse. But the controversial goodwill threatens to splinter the team, and it's up to Alan, Jay and Wildcat to hold it together.” 
Manhunter #31 – If ever a book deserved a re-launch with a new #1, this series is it. This book has proved to have more lives that a cat, as it has struggled to remain above the cancellation line all the time. I think this has been a good series and I hope it makes it for at least another 2 years. DC says “Los Angeles is Manhunter's town — so when Kate Spencer learns of the disappearance of hundreds of women along the Mexican border, she's on the case both as law-breaking D.A. and costumed vigilante. Meanwhile, Kate's bloodline tie to the JSA returns to haunt her — and it looks like her sidekick's most notorious super-villain ex-boss is doing the same to him.” Midnighter #20 – The final issue in this series that started on a high note
and ended on a high note, but the middle guaranteed its cancellation. The word “Assassin8 has managed to take out almost all of the Authority. The only thing standing between him and complete victory is the Midnighter — and Midnighter wants serious revenge!“ 
Nightwing #145 – If there were awards for most improved series this book would win. This is now just a top notch series from DC. The hype “As the stakes get higher, Nightwing finds not only his own life in danger, but quite possibly the future of the entire country. Talia's grand new plans take shape thanks to the forced assistance of a kidnapped Mother of Champions now under Creighton's complete control.” Rann Thanagar Holy War #2 (of 8) – This was a surprise mini-series as the
convoluted nature of what had been going on made me wonder if I would care with this mini-series. Last issue Starlin and Lim set the table perfectly and I’m in for this ride. The company hype “The cosmic event of the summer continues! Who — or what — has been raiding the timestream and plucking creatures from Rann's past? Adam Strange, Hawkman, Starfire and company are about to find out as they come face-to-face with a T-Rex!” 
Robin Spoiler Special #1 – If comics were really getting more adult, this could be a very different book. Not sure why we needed a special, why not just the next issue of Robin. The word “All is revealed in this special when Robin and Spoiler team up to take down a kidnapping ring, hit up an illegal warehouse party and finish Tim's algebra homework; just another day in the life of a teenaged vigilante super-hero! Plus, even more Robin doesn't know: Spoiler's secret identity in another country, in another life - one she can never leave behind.” Showcase Presents the Haunted Tank TP Volume 2 – My fondness for this
material needs to get a reality check as I have way too many of these floating around now and will never get a chance to read them all. Here is what you get “Written by Robert Kanigher and Joe Kubert; Art by Kubert, Russ Heath, Irv Novick, Mike Sekowsky and others; Cover by Kubert 500 pages of classic war stories, from the pages of G.I. COMBAT #120-157 (1966-1973)!” All for only $17.
Supergirl #30 – I swear that I have liked this series lately and no one else will admit to it, but there have to some fans of this book. The hype “Supergirl crossed a line no hero should, promising a dying boy she'd cure his cancer. Now she's prepared to break the universe's rules of life and death and betray the trust of two heroes in service of her impossible quest. Regardless of the outcome, there will be major consequences for the Teen of Steel!” Tor #2 (of 6) – This is Joe Kubert returning to one of his characters. Joe is a
true master of this art form. The hype “As Tor continues his journey through the world he's just discovered, he meets a group of prehistoric men who accept him as one of their own. However, a mistake could prove deadly when the tribe encounters a man-eating sabretooth tiger.” 
Trinity #1 – DC’s newest weekly series begins and it can’t be as bad as Countdown, and it is self-contained, so it has a chance to be good with Busiek and Bagley handling the front half of the book ever week. The hype “The lead feature explores the unusual bond — and importance — of DC's top three characters, Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman, as a mysterious dream links them together and may prophesy important changes in their trinity! Plus, a co-feature in issue #1 explores the mysterious connection between several villains who are watching the Trinity —as well as the near future for these characters and their surrounding world!” War That Time Forgot #2 (of 12) – Last issue was just okay and for a 12
issue storyline it needs to be better then okay, so I’m going in with my eye on dropping this series. The company line “Heroes and legends from across time collide! Marooned on an island with warriors from every era in history our heroes find that this strange environment, already crawling with prehistoric creatures, has more deadly secrets to reveal! Also, the arrival of more combatants, including Viking Prince!” 
Brit #6 - The official hype “The endgame is HERE! The mastermind behind the current troubles Brit has experienced: EXPOSED! Brit's sister's name: REVEALED! All this and the stage is set for the next senses-shattering story arc, starting next issue! If you haven't been reading Brit, this is the one to get.” Solicited for release in JANUARY!Noble Causes #34 – This is a strong series to me and it has been very
accessible coming on board as I did after the five year jump. This has been a great job of allowing a new reader access to the book. The hype line “The reinvigorated series continues with a villain straight from the pages of DYNAMO 5! The Noble family is hot on the trail of the super- villain called Bonechill, because he's the only person who can save Frost's life!” 
Abe Sapien The Drowning #5 (of 5) - This has been a terrific series and it has been a showcase for artist Jason Shawn Alexander, who is continuing to get better and better. The company hype “Abe comes face to face with the power that has protected Saint Sbastien for centuries in this breathtaking conclusion to his first solo miniseries. Written by Hellboy creator Mike Mignola, and featuring the haunting art of Jason Shawn Alexander (Damn Nation, The Secret, The Escapists), The Drowning is the story of Hellboy mainstay Abe Sapien trying to save a cursed island and its doomed inhabitants.” Conan Born on the Battlefield HC – I’m picking this up as it collects all the
spread out chapters that Busiek and Ruth did to tell an origin tale of Conan. It was so well done that I wanted a collected edition and a $25 hard cover is a good deal. The hype “Writer Kurt Busiek and artist Greg Ruth team up to give you the story of Conan's early life, from his birth on a Cimmerian battlefield to his coming-of-age as a warrior in the pivotal Battle of Venarium. Sewing the seeds of the Barbarian's momentous career, this chronicle of Conan's youthful conquests – both martial and carnal -- also showcases master storytellers Busiek and Ruth's work at its finest.” 
Grimm Fairy Tales #27 - The company line “3 blind mice, see how they run - and run for their lives they will when Belinda gets a hold of them! When three conmen meet a lonely old woman who puts them up for free they think they've hit the jackpot. As they freeload off of their sweet hostess they concoct a scheme to rob her blind. But the crooks soon come to realize that in the world of Grimm Fairy Tales, nothing ever goes as planned!” This is a very uneven book and I’m always wavering on canceling this title.Tales From Wonderland Mad Hatter – The hype line “A local hero has
somehow been thrown into insanity as he attempts to adapt to a world intent on taking his mind. But he soon realizes that there is only way to adapt to the un-adaptable. You know how the saying goes: 'If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!' Discover the origin of the infamous Mad Hatter in an issue that will leave readers jaw-dropped! Features part two of an eight-page back-up story that will reveal the true origin and discovery of the place known as Wonderland." The Wonderland books have been the best material from Zenoscope.
Wormwood Calamari Rising TP - I simply love this work by Ben Templesmith. Especially as he never seems to take himself too seriously. A lot of fun as long as you are not an overly sensitive type. The hype “Just when Wormwood thought he could finally have that quiet drink without worrying about the world coming to an end, or a friend with a parasitic infection trying to kill him, The Brotherhood of the Calamari decide to crash the party. Since their last meeting, they've tracked him across the thousand million dimensional possibilities of existence‹and this time the entire Squideeverse is with them. Wormwood is going to learn the hard way he can't keep running from his problems as his oldest foe now threatens his favorite watering hole, Earth, with absorption into the Calamari group mind. Complete with additional sketches and doodlings.” Avengers Invaders #2 (of 12) – This is another 12 part mini-series that was just okay, so I have
reservations about how long I will hang on to this series. The company line “The cross-time team-up of the year continues with the award winning team behind EARTH X, Justice and Project: Superpowers! With World War II's greatest heroes mysteriously transported to 2008, it takes the Mighty Avengers to bring them in before the world realizes that the Invaders are back…including the original Captain America. But will Iron Man and S.H.I.E.L.D. have enough firepower to hold them…or do the Invaders have everyone just where they want them?” 
Criminal 2 #3 – I know this book is a labor of love for Brubaker and Phillips and it is a better series then many others on the shelves, but the comic fan base does not support titles like this and Scalped like you would hope they would. I think the mind set of too many of the fans is comics are for super heroes only and when they want a different type of entertainment they go elsewhere. Put all the comics into a book store setting and Scalped and Criminal probably outsell any super hero book. The hype “*Female of the Species*” is the final piece to the noir puzzle of these three stories of crime and murder in the early 1970s. Told from the sympathetic POV of a Femme Fatale on her path to one final score and the revenge she’s been waiting years to get. A heartbreaking look into the other side of a noir tradition.” Haunt of Horror Lovecraft #1 (of 3) – The hype “Horror comics legend RICHARD CORBEN
(HAUNT OF HORROR: EDGAR ALLAN POE) brings you a new 3-issue limited series that offers eerie new spins on the poems and short stories of H.P. Lovecraft.” Putting Corben and Lovecraft together is a natural.
Nova #14 – This has been a solid series from Marvel. The company line “Continuing one of the wildest Galactus and Silver Surfer stories ever! He’s got the power of the entire Nova Force. He’s faced down the likes of Sphinx and Annihilus. But is the Human Rocket even in the same league as the Devourer of Worlds and his most famous herald? And what the blue blazes can Nova do when he finds himself the only thing standing between the big G and his next super-sized mega-meal?” Secret Invasions #3 (of 8) – I hope this is a decent issue as I’m starting to
sour on this event. The company line “THE BLOCKBUSTER EVENT continues. Its Avenger versus Avenger. Hero versus hero! Norman Osborn versus Captain Marvel?? The Initiative versus an army of Super-Skrulls? Is Tony Stark really a- -? And who's that guy with an eye patch coming to save the day?? And, oh man, who did he bring with him?” Plus I’m still ticked they are charging $4 for this and only giving us 22 pages.
Ultimate Origins #1 (of 5) – I was going to skip this book, but it is a relatively light week and I like Jackson Guice’s art work, so I decided to see if issue #1 is intriguing or not. The hype “This is it! The story that finally reveals the conspiracies behind the entire Ultimate Universe! When they first met, Bruce Banner mysteriously warned Spider-Man that "Everything is connected." Now it's time to discover the jaw-dropping secrets that men have fought and died to protect. From the dark days of World War II to the frightening present, journey through history to learn what's really behind the Super Soldier and Weapon X programs–and how heroes such as Captain America, Nick Fury and Wolverine have more in common than codenames and costumes.” Young X-Men #3 – I’m giving this book more rope then it deserves so every issue is a test at
this point. The hype “It’s the Young X-Men vs. the new Brotherhood of Evil Mutants! A traitor is revealed and the casualties mount as the team goes to battle. We hope there are Young X-Men left when the smoke clears.”Well that is a wrap for this week. I actually prefer this method of listing out what I’m getting as to how I was doing it. The unoffical tally for this week was two dinosaur covers and two "jaw droppings" in the hype.
On a personal and sad note I was at the game where Manny Ramirez hit his 500th home run and it was sad that O’s fans were outnumbered probably 3 to 1 to Red Sox fans at the O’s stadium. It would have been okay if we had won, but alas it was not to be.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Image Preview Review For August
Jim: I like giving Image and Dark Horse there own spot light ever month, It may not always be pick months for each company, but both companies deserve solo spotlights. Let’s see what Image has in store for us.
Lee: Yak yak yak, no one reads the intro anyway. I’m gonna sit here in my tighty-whities and make silly comments. Not much more different than usual except for the underwhere! Underwhere? Underthere! HA HA HA. Enough humor on with the show.
GOLLY #1 story PHIL HESTER art BROOK TURNER cover ANDY BRASEThe end times have been canceled, but some pockets of Hell didn’t get the memo. Heaven chooses a dimwitted, kindhearted, foul-mouthed carnival ride repairman to wage war on any demonic forces still bent on starting something come Judgment Day. Southern fried horror for fans of Preacher and The Goon. AUGUST 13 - 32 PAGES - FC - $2.99
Jim: See I’m a fan of the Goon and I enjoyed Preacher in its day, but the premise is not really grabbing me and I’m not familiar with the interior artists, so this is a pass for me.
Lee: There’s something in this ad that just doesn’t grab me. When I think of The Good or Preacher, yes I get end-o-days and demons and what not but I also get a cool hero. The strong-n-silent, smarter than I appear type. In this case, the hype already says the hero is dim-witted which doesn’t really excite me. The message isn’t clear to me, is this humor or is this serious. I’m gonna have to pass because it doesn’t seem to be either.
GUERILLAS #1 (of 8) story BRAHM REVEL art & cover BRAHM REVEL 
As the Vietnam War continues to drag on, the U.S. decides to implement their new secret weapon… Monkeys! GUERILLAS is the first issue of an action-packed miniseries which follows a troop of specially trained chimpanzees and the lone human soldier brought along for the ride. AUGUST 20 - 50 PAGES - BW - $3.50
Previews here
Lee: HEY!!!! A whole book about monkeys. You love Monkeys Jim. This is all you!!! Side note: Even if it weren't for Jim's love of monkey's that makes me vaguely uneasy, this sounds really cool.
Jim: I have a slight fondness for monkeys, it is not as bad as you and Gwen and others make it out to be, but this does sound like a bizarre and interesting concept.
As the Vietnam War continues to drag on, the U.S. decides to implement their new secret weapon… Monkeys! GUERILLAS is the first issue of an action-packed miniseries which follows a troop of specially trained chimpanzees and the lone human soldier brought along for the ride. AUGUST 20 - 50 PAGES - BW - $3.50
Previews here
Lee: HEY!!!! A whole book about monkeys. You love Monkeys Jim. This is all you!!! Side note: Even if it weren't for Jim's love of monkey's that makes me vaguely uneasy, this sounds really cool.
Jim: I have a slight fondness for monkeys, it is not as bad as you and Gwen and others make it out to be, but this does sound like a bizarre and interesting concept.
FRANK FRAZETTA’S DRACULA MEETS THE WOLF-MAN story STEVE NILES art FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA In the wake of the legendary Count Dracula's "final" excursion to England, the bloodthirsty count finds himself on the hunt for a beautiful peasant woman in a village living in the shadows of Dracula's castle. Unfortunately for the seductive Count, someone else has eyes for the beauty, and that someone else just happens to be the fear-inspiring Wolf-Man! Prepare yourself for the battle of the year as vampire faces lycanthrope in a battle to the death!AUGUST 13 - 32 PAGES - FC - $3.99
Visit Francesco Francavilla here
Jim: This has so many pluses. First all of these stories have been fun so far. Second Steve Niles as the writer, third Francesco Francavilla as the artist and Nat Jones is doing one of the covers. Should be fun.
Lee: I am impressed with the talent that Image has lined up for all the Frazetta comics. They have done a great job. And, I agree, this looks like a fine addition to the line. Now if only they would make a nice (affordable) trade of the material.
THE ROBERTS #1 (of 2) story WAYNE CHINSANGart & cover ERIK ROSE“ROBERT
KENNETH SPRUNGER”The Boston Strangler and the Zodiac Killer are alive and well, living amongst the old and dying of The Shady Lane Retirement Center. Surrounded by bingo tournaments and tea times, these two notorious serial killers quietly trade "war stories" about their golden years, two seemingly parallel pasts filled with violence and victims.AUGUST 6 - 48 PAGES - FC - $5.99
Visit Erik Rose here
Lee: If you like crime and horror this is right up your alley. I can only imagine how gruesome this book could be.
Jim: I will be finding out. Crime comics are entertaining and I have been enjoying a lot of the horror books, so the premise sold me on this book.
DEVOID OF LIFE OGN story RAFFAELE IENCO art & cover RAFFAELE IENCOFollowing the discovery of a mysterious hidden planet in our solar system a series of horrible deaths occur at an isolated observatory leading investigators to an alien plot that threatens all life on Earth by a guard of unstoppable ghostly alien creatures. Cinematic science-fiction/horror for fans of The Ring and The Sixth Sense by writer/artist powerhouse RAFFAELE IENCO.
Visit Raff for a 15 page preview here
AUGUST 13 - 132 PAGES - FC - $14.99
Jim: Image is showing a real belief in the straight to graphic novel approach and for certain concepts I think they are right. This has a good premise.
Lee: I agree, sometimes it just makes sense to go to the longer format. And the preview looks really good too. Click the link to see for yourself!
INVINCIBLE: THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION, VOL. 4 HC story ROBERT KIRKMANart & cover RYAN OTTLEY & BILL CRABTREEWitness Invincible’s transition from new hero just starting out to an established superhero! This volume collects Invincible’s violent battle with the villainous Reanimen, the invasion attempt by the Sequids from Mars and the introduction of the Viltrumite agent, Anissa. This is a can’t-miss for any INVINCIBLE fan and a perfect addition to any bookshelf.
Collects INVINCIBLE #36-47
AUGUST 6 - 336 PAGES - FC - $34.99
Lee: It's weird but I don't think Jim has raved about Invincible in a long time. Very odd. Anyway, this is how I read it, and I love these oversized hc's.
Jim: I have been quite because the book has gotten so late, that and it has been a little slow building up to issue #50, that it has not been on the front burner for awhile. I also get these hard covers are they are a great bargain.
THE SURREAL ADVENTURES OF EDGAR ALLAN POO, BOOK 2 OGN story DWIGHT L.
MACPHERSONart AVERY BUTTERWORTHcover THOMAS BOATWRIGHTIt's a clash of the titans as the forces of the Nightmare King collide with the armies of Terra Somnium in a battle to decide the fate of the Dream Child! In the end, Edgar Allan Poo must stand alone to rescue his mother and prevent the dark lord from trapping him in the realm of dreams…forever.AUGUST 20 - 96 PAGES - FC - $12.99
Jim: FLAT OUT CAN NOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK. I loved the first book and this looks to be just as much fun.
Lee: The first adventure of Mr. Poo was excellent so I’m sure this will be the same. Macpherson is a heck of a writer and I’ve liked everything he’s written so far. Jump on the bandwagon while there’s still time people!!!
WAR HEROES #3 (of 6)story MARK MILLARart & cover TONY HARRIS inks CLIFF RATHBURN colors JD METTLERAfter weeks of training, the recruits finally get to try out their super-powers on real-life targets, as Project Olympus marches en masse across the Middle East, much to the horror of the world at large. But things are not as simple as they seem, and Calvin's poster-boy brother is up to something.
AUGUST 27 - 32 PAGES - FC - $2.99
Lee: YOWZA! Now that is one less than subtle cover. I wonder how Millar feels about the war in Iraq. It's a real mystery.
Jim: Not often that I would think Millar and I would be on the same page on almost anything.
Witchblade #120 (W) Ron Marz(A) Stjepan Sejic(Cov) Stjepan
Sejic, Matt Haley, Kevin NowlanDani discovers that the Witchblade affects all aspects of the bearer’s life including their love life as she deals with the ramifications of her recent betrayal at the hands of her lover. The consistent vision of Marz and Sejic continues to shine in this issue of Witchblade.
Cover A " Stjepan SejicCover B " Matt Haley and Kevin Nowlan
Full Color32 pages$2.99 Ongoing Series
Lee: Ya know... as I am looking at all the "Image" covers I realized that they were normal and quite tame. I was shocked! And mildly frustrated that we might have a "Embarrassed to be a fanboy cover"... then I got the the TopCow section. God Bless TopCow for making cover decisions based on hormones alone. Cover A is just plain ridiculous.
Jim: What are you a girly man? Cover “A” is the way most women should walk around the city streets :)
Jim: A relatively quite month from Image, but we have a good monkey book coming out, so that makes up for anything else.
Lee: It’s quiet in terms of volume only, the books offered are really good this month.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)