DC Preview Review For January

Jim: Happy New Year! Happy New ….. oh it is just January solicitations. By the time January actually rolls around the Red Sox will be a distant memory as will the Patriots. Anyway let’s see what evil lurks within DC this month.
Lee: January seems so far away. But Christmas will have come and gone but maybe Santa will bring Baltimore a professional sports team of some sort so the natives will have something to look forward to.
Gwen: I'm still really sad the Rays lost. It was like Christmas had come early in Tampa with them doing so well. Still, at least they got as far as they did.

FINAL CRISIS #7 Written by Grant MorrisonArt by Doug Mahnke & Christian Alamy Covers by J.G. Jones and Doug Mahnke The dramatic finale to the epic, seven-part saga of the DC multiverse concludes with an apocalyptic battle for the soul of humanity that must be seen to be believed! Can the heroes of 52 Earths save the multiverse? And is the only way to save it, to change it forever?On sale January 28, 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US

Jim: I know it can’t happen because sales dictate these things continuing, but I wish 2009 could be a year without the mega-event. I almost wish they would solicit the trade at the same time as I want to read this in one sitting.
Lee: I’m still waiting to hear the final opinion before jumping into the trade. My problem is all the side bar mini series. I wonder if the main series will be coherent without all the other little miniseries.
Gwen: You know, at this point I could care less. There have been some good things from Final Crisis but I am officially burnt out on mega events.

FINAL CRISIS: SUPERMAN BEYOND #2 Written by Grant MorrisonArt by Doug Mahnke & Christian Alamy Covers by J.H. Williams III and Doug Mahnke The epic voyage beyond reality concludes in this heart-stopping finale as the multiverse-spanning quest for the elixir of the supergods reaches its end on the shores of a battlefield beyond imagination! But first, the Supermen of five worlds must lay bare the darkest secret of the multiverse, expose the shocking origin of the Monitors and come face to face with a seemingly unstoppable evil fuelled by the power of 52 living universes!As the sun sets on existence itself, Mandrakk, the dark Monitor, is awakening! Can Superman prevail against the ultimate enemy of life and find his way home before utter darkness falls across the cosmos? With a startling 3-D section and 3-D glasses, twists and turns that have to be seen to be believed and cosmic action on a mind-shattering scale, SUPERMAN BEYOND ties directly to FINAL CRISIS and cannot be missed!On sale January 14 ‚2 of 2 ‚40 pg, FC, $4.50 US
Lee: I must have missed this somewhere but I remember issue #1. BUT, after an exhaustive google session the first issue was released in August. AND, this issue will be released in January. Thank goodness I can remember plot elements for books published six months apart. Let’s not even talk about how this appears to feed into FC and the, at this point, unreadable trade.
Jim: I’m not positive but I think this was supposed to be spaced out far about. I could be wrong.
Gwen: Actually I don't remember issue #1 =/

FACES OF EVIL: GRUNDY #1 Written by Scott Kolins & Geoff JohnsArt by Scott KolinsCover by Shane Davis & Sandra Hope The marsh monster stars in his first solo book ever! Who was the man who would be reborn as Solomon Grundy? Discover the secret history of the creature as his curse is explored and redefined in this one-shot special!On sale January 7, one shot, FC, $2.99 US

FACES OF EVIL: PROMETHEUS #1 Written by Sterling GatesArt by Federico Dalbochio Cover by Mauro CascioliIt’s an all-new prelude to the upcoming, all-new JUSTICE LEAGUE #1! Prometheus once defeated the Justice League single-handedly, and with his latest lethal crime spree, he's moved to the top of the heroes' Most Wanted list. But what grave crimes has he committed, and what will he do to prevent capture? Learn the real face of evil that is Prometheus!On sale January 14, 32 pg, one shot, FC, $2.99 US

FACES OF EVIL: DEATHSTROKE #1 Written by David HineArt by Georges Jeanty Cover by LadronnDeathstroke nearly died fighting Geo-Force in DCU: LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT, and now he needs to rebuild himself. He's not about to let a near death experience make him lose his place as one of the most dangerous villains in the DCU. Where will he start? What's next for the Terminator? And how high will the body count be when he's finished?On sale January 21‚32 pg, one shot, FC, $2.99 US

FACES OF EVIL: KOBRA #1Written by Ivan BrandonArt by Jesus Merino Cover by Andrew RobinsonWho is Kobra? After his death, Kobra’s terrorist organization has been in disarray, with different factions and false leaders vying for control. Now a new figure has infiltrated the Kobra Cult and started systematically destroying its powerbase. But who is this new player? Is it the original Kobra reborn — or something far more sinister?On sale January 28‚ 32 pg, one shot, FC, $2.99 US

Jim: I can handle this type of event. One shots are nice as there is no real commitment and you can pick and choose based on what floats your boat.
Lee: Didn’t we do the villain one shot thing 4-5 years ago? It seems like this is just a rehash of ideas that have already been done. Let’s not even talk about how this “cover cross over” made all the covers look bland and pointless this month.
Gwen: With all the different teams of creators I'll just have to wait and see which ones work out and which ones don't. I enjoy an occasional villain story though.

TERROR TITANS #4 Written by Sean McKeeverArt and cover by Joe Bennett & Jack Jadson The hidden champion of the Dark Side club is revealed — Milestone’s own Static, in his shocking introduction to the modern DC Universe! Since proving too powerful for the confines of the Club, Static has been kept under lock, key and heavy sedation in its basement cells. Now he’s unleashed against Ravager as her ultimate test!On sale January 7, 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Lee: Now this is cool! Static returns to print. I always liked the Milestone imprint and I felt they had a good crop of characters. Hopefully some of the Milestone characters will get another chance.
Jim: They are all being incorporated into the mainstream DCU. You need to read the comic news sometimes Lee.
Gwen: Am I too young to know what Milestone is?

BLACK LIGHTNING: Year One #1-2 Written by Jen Van MeterArt and cover by Cully Hamner Jefferson Pierce returns to his old stomping grounds — the infamous Suicide Slum of Metropolis — in order to bring some hope to the residents of his downtrodden former neighborhood. He’ll quickly learn, though, that a lawless place sometimes requires a lawless vigilante to drag it into the light. Acclaimed writer Jen Van Meter (CINNAMON, OUTSIDERS) and kinetic artist Cully Hamner (BLUE BEETLE, RED) combine forces to retell the electrifying origin of DC’s most honorable hero, the bold and brave Justice Leaguer known as Black Lightning!Issue #1 on sale January 7; issue #2 on sale January 21‚1 and 2 of 6‚ 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Jim: A good year to be promoting your black male characters, given our new President will be the first bi-racial president (that we know of).
Gwen: I've always liked Jefferson Pierce, but I find it odd that black superheroes race is always so empathized. I mean, it's the same with John Stewart half the time (his first appearance still pains me - he's much cooler now). It's like the publishers are trying to wave a red neon sign saying "look, we're politically correct" instead of just allowing the characters to develop naturally.

BATMAN AND THE OUTSIDERS SPECIAL #1Written by Peter J. TomasiArt and cover by Adam Kubert & John Dell Variant cover by Adam Kubert Spinning out of “Batman R.I.P.” and DC UNIVERSE: LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT, this special features the birth of a new era for the Outsiders and is a perfect entry point for past and present readers alike. FINAL CRISIS has changed the universe forever and though Batman may be gone, his legacy must endure. Forces are set in motion that give rise to a new team ready to combat the secret evil that the Outsiders were truly formed for all those years ago. Is Geo-Force the best leader? Or will Black Lightning prove to be a challenger? Plus, the introduction of a never-before-seen character important to the Batman mythos!Writer Peter J. Tomasi (GREEN LANTERN CORPS, NIGHTWING) is joined by Adam Kubert (DCU: LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT) for this extra-length one-shot spectacular, which is the opening chapter of an epic storyline that will continue within the pages of February’s THE OUTSIDERS #15! On sale January 21‚ 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US

Jim: Geezes H. Crisp! I just canceled this damn title and now they suck me back in with Peter Tomasi writing it and giving the book a chance. Gosh darn it, looks like I could be back on this title in January.
Lee: AAUUUGGGHHHH! I am sorry but this sh*t sucks. WHY, oh why is this being published other than to screw Jim out of a few more dollars? Why couldn’t the “start of a brand new storyline” actually start in some strange place like… oh I don’t know… the primary title. It’s crappy specials like this that drive me away from superheroes these days.

Gwen: I just want Batman R.I.P. to be over. The whole idea of it seems to clash with the idea of Trinity and leaves me supremely confused as to what's actually happening in the DCU.

SUPERMAN/BATMAN ANNUAL #3 Written by Len Wein Art by Chris Batista & Mick Gray Cover by Bernie WrightsonIn the grand tradition of past SUPERMAN/BATMAN Annuals, this year's tale re-imagines the classic World's Finest villainy of the Composite Superman as only the co-creator of Swamp Thing could! Part Superman, part Batman, this patchwork behemoth plans on living out the lives of both heroes. But can Lois and Robin survive the horrific experience as they face the creature with two brains? With a monstrous cover from horror master Bernie Wrightson!On sale January 21 ‚ 48 pg, FC, $3.99 US

Jim: Bernie Wrightson cover – awesome! Re-Imaging Composite Superman – fantastic. Chris Batista & Mick Gray on art – good. Len Wein writing – wow where has Len been and does he have the chops anymore. I hope so as I love the Composite Superman from the Silver Age.
Lee: Uuummmm, yeah. You’re way more excited about this than I am. I liked the Composite Superman-Batman giant robot better anyway.
Gwen: This could either be a lot of fun or absolutely horrible. Guess we'll have to wait and see. Of course, Jim still has his Legion of Super Hero action figures on the shelf, waiting....

MANHUNTER #38 Written by Marc AndreykoArt by Michael Gaydos Cover by Brad Walker & LivesayIn this final issue, Manhunter fights metahuman terrorists while Kate Spencer prepares for the most heart-wrenching case of her legal career! Battle lines are drawn in the Super Hero community when long-buried personal secrets are revealed!FINAL ISSUE‚ On sale January 14 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Gwen: WHY???? Why are we canceling this book yet again? *cries*
Jim: I think they should have started it over with a #1 and maybe it would have had a better chance.

THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #50 Written by Jim ShooterArt and cover by Francis Manapul & Livesay It’s the final issue! The climactic conclusion of the Universal Annihilation War is here and every Legionnaire, every reservist and even the United Planets’ Young Heroes battle to save existence. Also featuring the return of Cosmic Boy, the death of a longtime Legionaire and a gorgeous wraparound cover!FINAL ISSUE ‚ On sale January 28 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Jim: Lee and I were talking about how I have actually pared my list down a little and now DC is jumping in to help out. WITH THE WRONG BOOKS! Arrghhhhh – I like both of these titles and I’m sorry to see them go.

Lee: Hey look at that! It’s the Annihilation Wave! After the Nova Corp defeated Annihilus, he took his swarm of bugs and attacked the DCU. Now that cool as… ooops, this is the Annihilation War which is COMPLETELY different. Or mostly different. Somewhat different? Next month from Marvel X-men: Crisis Finale of Earth-616

Gwen: Yet again, why is this being canceled? DC is conspiring to cancel some of my favorite books. Also, does this take place before or after Legion of Three Worlds?

WONDER WOMAN #28Written by Gail Simone Art by Aaron Lopresti & Matt Ryan Cover by Aaron Lopresti “Rise of the Olympian” part 3 and a “Faces of Evil” issue! The Olympians are on Earth, and they're making their presence felt across the world! The JLA joins forces with Wonder Woman to stop Genocide, but even their combined might isn't enough! And the mysterious power behind The Society is at last revealed!On sale January 28 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Lee: Ummm, I assume that’s Cheetah on the cover of Wonder Woman. Maybe Lopresti was using his Tigra character sheets when he drew this because it really doesn’t look like Cheetah.
Jim: I agree.
Gwen: Yup, looks much more like Tigera - excepting the spots.

THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD VOL. 3: DEMONS AND DRAGONS HC Written by Mark Waid and Alan Brennert Art by Scott Kolins, Jerry Ordway, Jim Aparo, Humberto Ramos, Oscar Jimenez and others Cover by Scott KolinsSuperstar writer Mark Waid rounds out his run on THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD with this new hardcover! Collecting THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #13-16 along with extra tales including THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD (Vol. 1) #181, THE FLASH (Vol. 2) #107 and IMPULSE #17!Advance-solicited; on sale March 25 168 pg, FC, $24.99 US

Lee: On one hand, it’s cool that DC collected Waid’s run and stopped there. On the other hand, to fill out the hc with very old filler material is kinda cheesy. But, I’ll still be getting it because the series was so good.
Jim: Lee sometimes adds picks just to add them, we are approaching that territory. That being said, filler to get to a certain page count is lame.
Gwen: I enjoyed Waid's B&B run, not enjoying the new creator team as much.

THE FLASH ARCHIVES VOL. 5 HC Written by John Broome and Gardner Fox Art by Carmine Infantino, Joe Giella and Murphy Anderson Cover by Carmine Infantino and Joe GiellaThe Fastest Man Alive takes on some of his greatest foes in this new Archive, including Captain Cold, Abra-Kadabra, Mirror Master, Pied Piper, Heat Wave and The Reverse Flash! Collecting THE FLASH #133-#141 from 1962-1963.Advance-solicited; on sale March 18, 248 pg, FC, $49.99 US
Jim: I was shocked and pleasantly surprised to see a new Archive. I thought DC had stopped this program 100%, glad to see some series will still get a new volume on occasion.

Lee: I’m glad to see DC didn’t kill the archives line off. But, it kills my budget!

Gwen: I'm not worried about this as I don't own any archives - I just read Jim's.

THE LOSERS BY JACK KIRBY HC Written by Jack KirbyArt by Jack Kirby, D. Bruce Berry & Mike Royer Cover by Jack Kirby & Mike RoyerFor the first time, Jack Kirby’s tales of World War II are collected! In 1974, while Jack Kirby was hard at work on such mind-bending epics as MISTER MIRACLE and KAMANDI, he also created a series of stories that drew on his own experiences in World War II. Starring DC war heroes Johnny Cloud, Captain Storm, Gunner and Sarge, this volume features stories in which The Losers stop a German attack using a tactic found in a comic book, German and American athletes who faced each other at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin meet again on the field of combat, and much more! Don’t miss this amazing collection of tales from OUR FIGHTING FORCES #151-162, and featuring a foreword by best-selling author Neil Gaiman (THE SANDMAN).Advance-solicited; on sale March 11‚240 pg, FC, $39.99 US

Jim: Hey Kirby was great, but not everything he did was a gem and this is one that I’m passing on.

Lee: Dude! It’s Kirby! How can you not get Kirby???? This is one of the few series from Kirby that I don’t have in floppy format so I am all over this.

Gwen: Too young to remember.

VIGILANTE: CITY LIGHTS, PRAIRIE JUSTICE TP

Written by James RobinsonArt by Tony Salmons & Bret Blevins Cover by Mark ChiarelloThe motorcycle-riding, two-gun hero called The Vigilante stars in this new volume collecting the four-issue miniseries from 1995, written by James Robinson! Greg Saunders, better known as The Vigilante, hits Hollywood to appear in a movie — but heads into action when his sidekick runs afoul of gangsters!Advance-solicited; on sale February 11 144 pg, FC, $19.99 US

Lee: Tony Salmons has a reputation as being an artists-artist. I was too young to appreciate his art the first time so I’m getting this just for the art.
Jim: I think DC is reprinting a lot of Robinson’s stuff as a way of giving him supplemental payments since he is currently working at DC.
Gwen: Not terribly interested but I've never read any of the Vigilante stuff before.

BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #1 Written by Matt WayneArt by Andy Suriano & Dan Davis Cover by James TuckerJumping out of your TV and into your comics comes the highly anticipated new cartoon BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD! Each month, The Dark Knight Detective faces challenges that only he can solve — with a little help from his DC Universe pals! Thrill as Batman visits new places and old friends. Chill as he chases down the most powerful villains in the DCU, armed with only his Bat-gadgets and his wits!In this awesome first issue, show writer Matt Wayne (Justice League, Ben 10: Alien Force) joins forces with Andy Suriano and Dan Davis to bring you "The Panic of the Composite Creature," a tale of terror and adventure! All this action plus Batman's secret files await you each and every month. So hang on to your seats, and get ready for the read of your life!Retailers: Please see this month’s Previews Order Form for a special offer tied into this issue.On sale January 28 32 pg, FC, $2.50 US
SUPER FRIENDS #11 Written by Sholly FischArt by Chynna Clugston Cover by J. BoneBatman’s got a fan club! But it’s a mischievous fan club of one known as Bat-Mite, and he just can’t stand the other Super Friends saving the day alongside Batman. Will The Caped Crusader be forced to fly solo from now on? Not if Mister Mxyzptlk can help it!On sale January 14 ‘‘‚¬Â¢ 32 pg, FC, $2.50 US

Lee: Kids comics are such an odd thing. Because I have young kids I really like them because it lets me share comics with my kids. BUT, at a certain level it needs to be a kids book without looking like a kids book. If it’s too “kiddie” my kids won’t read it. They would much rather read old Batman Adventures with Bruce Timm knockoff art. The art reminds me of the Hasbro Spider-Man and Friends Figures which are big chunky action figures for the under 6 crowd. If my kids equate this as being “too young” for them then they won’t read it. These books are too expensive to take that chance. I’ll go get back issues for $1 instead.

Jim: Writing down is always a bad idea. Making them much of a “kiddie” book limits their audience.

Gwen: I agree about these being too kid-like. Kids aren't dumb and these books act as if they are.

MYSTERIUS:
THE UNFATHOMABLE #1 Written by Jeff ParkerArt and cover by Tom Fowler “Will all patrons please be seated? Tonight you will witness supernatural feats that no mortal mind can comprehend! Your very senses will reel as Mysterius the Great takes the stage after years in absentia! And now please welcome his newest stalwart, the brave and beautiful assistant who will accompany our host on a journey beyond the boundaries of science and reason...the Lovely Delfi! Now, all join hands...”Acclaimed creators Jeff Parker (X-Men: The First Class, Agents of Atlas) and Tom Fowler (GREEN ARROW, CAPER) make their WildStorm debut with this exciting, offbeat new miniseries!On sale January 21 ‚ 1 of 6 ‘‘‚32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Jim: This normally would be something I would take a pass on, but I like Jeff Parker stuff, so I will give this a whirl.

Lee: Thank goodness Jim cut back on how many books he’s getting. Otherwise he wouldn’t have room to add new books like this.

Gwen: Not really sure what this is but it looks mildly interesting.

MIRROR’S EDGE #3 Written by Rhianna PratchettArt by Matthew Dow Smith Cover by Brian StelfreezeBased on the exciting new video game from Electronic Arts! On the run from the police force and using every newfound skill she’s learning as a Runner, Faith uncovers the truth behind her family’s secrets — secrets that her estranged father has been trying to keep from her at all costs!Written by famed game writer Rhianna Pratchett and illustrated by Matthew Dow Smith (SUPERNATURAL: ORIGINS), this new book presents an adventure that will further flesh out this incredible video game world!On sale January 7 32 pg, FC, $3.99 US

Lee: Huuummm, I wonder what contortionist Stelfreeze used a reference for this cover??? Yikes, that looks like it hurts.
Jim: Here we hit Lee adding things for no real reason.
Gwen: Comics based on video games - so rarely are they any good.

THE COMPLEAT DEATH DELUXE EDITION HC Written by Neil GaimanArt by Mark Buckingham, Chris Bachalo, Jeffrey Jones, Dave McKean and Mark Pennington Cover by Dave McKean“The landmark comic-book series that actually made Death seem . . . cool.”— ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY on THE SANDMANFrom the pages of Neil Gaiman's THE SANDMAN comes the young, pale, perky and genuinely likable Death. One day in every century, Death walks the Earth to better understand those to whom she will be the final visitor. Today is that day!Collecting DEATH: THE HIGH COST OF LIVING #1-3, DEATH: THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE #1-3, the DEATH TALKS ABOUT LIFE AIDS pamphlet and stories from VERTIGO: WINTER’S EDGE #2 and THE SANDMAN: ENDLESS NIGHTS for the first time in one place. This oversized hardcover is the perfect companion for THE ABSOLUTE SANDMAN and ideal for fans of Gaiman’s sprawling, intimate comics work!Advance solicited; on sale March 25 ‚ 7.0625” x 10.875” ‚ 304 pg, FC $34.99 US MATURE READERS

Jim; What they can’t spell complete? Darn Brits and their colours. Anyway this rounds out the collection I have been buying as a gift for a certain daughter who will go nameless.

Lee: OH OH I get ya. Nameless! For regular readers, he’s talking about rhymes with BWEN! But, sssshhhhhh don’t let on.

Gwen: oooooo, shiny *does a happy dance*

ARMY@LOVE: THE ART OF WAR #6 Written by Rick Veitch Art and cover by Rick Veitch & Gary Erskine The mystery of the video from the future is finally solved, and, in the process, the central existential question of the age is answered. But what does that mean for Loman, Switzer, Flabbergast and the newest addition to the ARMY@LOVE cast: a walking, talking Big Finger?On sale January 7 6 of 6 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US MATURE READERS

Lee: I’m not sure what to do with covers like this. The Abu Ghraib photos were pretty violent based on context and I’m not sure what Veitch is trying to say. Granted Kyle Baker did it too but maybe it was the cartoony nature that muted some of the offensiveness. I’m all for making a statement but sometimes I think there are better ways to do it.
Jim: More of Lee’s inane adds.
Gwen: Do any of the three of us read this? Because I know it's not a book I get.

Jim: No none of us get this book.

100 BULLETS #99 Written by Brian Azzarello Art by Eduardo Risso Cover by Dave JohnsonThe penultimate issue of the award-winning series sees old scores settled and new bloodshed! As questions are answered, truths come to light in this startling issue. With one issue to go in this epic series, you won’t believe what happens next. Also, this is not a jumping-on point in case you were wondering.On sale January 14 ‘‘‚¬Â¢ 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US MATURE READERS

Lee: Just to point out the hype, this is not a jumping-on point in case you were wondering.
Jim: You think so!
Gwen: So, if we haven't been reading it before we shouldn't bother now. Thanks for the heads up!

HISTORY OF THE DC UNIVERSE SERIES 1 ACTION FIGURES BASED ON THE ART OF GEORGE PEREZ The first in an ongoing line of action figures that spans the broad history of the DC Universe, as presented by artist George Perez in the classic book HISTORY OF THE DC UNIVERSE!Planned to include more characters than any DC Direct line ever, this series will feature characters from a variety of teams and eras, as well as some renegade solo characters.The History of the DC Universe will undoubtedly increase the breadth of DC characters available as action figures, while satisfying many oft-requested fan favorite characters.Each figure features multiple points of articulation and a base.

Jim: Not sure we need yet another Batman or Green Arrow figure, but the Goodwin/Simonson Manhunter and a Blue Devil figure is pretty cool.

Lee: Blue Devil is cool but the Manhunter costume is looking really really dated. I’d prefer to have the Manhunter story in HC instead of the action figure.

Gwen: No! No more action figures! Then Jim sends me his old ones and they threaten to take over my apartment!

JLA TROPHY ROOM: BAT-CUFFS PROP REPLICA One of Batman’s most famous crime-fighting gadgets is the latest addition to the JLA TROPHY ROOM: life-sized Bat-Cuffs that fold down to fit into Batman’s utility belt!Reproduced for the first time ever as a high-quality prop replica, these metal Bat-Cuffs come with a special bat-shaped key. They fold in half for easy transport, or can be displayed on the included stand. Packaged in a 4-color box, the Bat-Cuffs also come with a 4-color Certificate of Authenticity.Limited-edition. Manufactured to order.The Bat-Cuffs are for display only and are not designed to be used.(Note: The Bat-Cuffs do not open.)Advance-resolicited; on sale June 17, 2009 * Prop Replica * $125 US

Lee: YEEEAAAAHHHH Baby!!! This is what I need, Bat Cuffs!!! This will look perfect right next to my fuzzy pink Catwoman cuffs…. HEY! What’s that in the fine print???? They don’t open???? WTH is that??? If they don’t open why would I buy Bat Cuffs????
Jim: I think they have solicited it these before.
Gwen: Oddly, I have to agree with Lee. I mean, $125 for bat cuffs that don't actually function?

Women of the DC Universe: PHANTOM LADY BUSTDesigned by Terry Dodson ‚ Sculpted by Karen PalinkoThe popular WOMEN OF THE DC UNIVERSE line of cold-cast porcelain busts continues with Phantom Lady!Freedom Fighter member Sandra Knight strikes a pose in the classic pinup style of the 1940s as she sits atop a World War II-inspired base.Collect all the WOMEN OF THE DCU: SERIES 2 BUSTS designed by Terry Dodson! Phantom Lady joins Wonder Woman, Starfire, Cheetah, Batwoman, Wonder Girl, Catwoman, Huntress, Jade, Shazam’s sister Mary and many more to come!This Phantom Lady Bust measures approximately 6” high x 3.75” wide x 3” deep and is packaged in a 4-color box.Advance-solicited; on sale June 3, 2009 * Bust * $55 US

Jim: Well if you are doing “busts” the Phantom Lady costume is the porn costume of the century. Way ahead of her time.

Lee: I can see what you mean by a great bust!

Gwen: .....

THE FLASH MINI NEON SIGN Decorate your home or store with this exciting, affordable neon sign featuring The Flash’s classic lightning strike logo!The adjustable base unit can sit on a tabletop or be mounted to a wall.Powered by a plug-in, UL-adapter, the sign itself measures approximately 8" wide x 9" high and has a base measuring approximately 5.5” in diameter. Packaged in a 4-color box.Advance-solicited; on sale June 24, 2009 * Neon Sign * $89.99 US

Jim: This goes next to you Batman Neon Sign, so everyone can know you are a geek and a fool.

Lee: No worries Jimmy! I knew you were a geek and a fool long before DC made this sign, so you don’t have to buy this.

Gwen: I am still confused as to why these neons cost so much.

UNI-FORMZ: BATMAN DESIGNED & SCULPTED BY MONSTER 5 Batman is the first in a new line of stylized vinyl UNI-FORMZ, inspired by the red-hot designer toy phenomenon!DC Direct has joined forces with popular contemporary toy designer Monster 5 to create this unique version of Batman. This bold new take on the Caped Crusader is a must-have for collectors of contemporary toy design, as well as traditional fans of Batman!Debuting this month are three styles of Batman: the “modern” Batman in his black costume, a variant version in the “classic” blue and gray costume, and an ultra-stylized variant “armored” version.These designer toys are limited! Once they are sold out, DC Direct will not produce these styles again!In keeping with the tradition of designer toys, rarity of certain incarnations are the norm. The Batman variants (“classic” and “armored”) will be produced in far lower quantities.The line of UNI-FORMZ continues in the months ahead with original designs for Superman, Green Lantern, and other favorite DC Universe characters.Don’t miss this chance to get the first in the series!

Jim: These are odd and oddly cool looking figures.

Lee: Uuuuummm, yeah. Sure. Why not? But, I think it more “just odd” than cool.

Gwen: Yes, I too would have to go with odd.

Jim: I got very enamored with the toys at the end. Still an interesting month and it seems to be that DC is reducing the amount of material they are producing, which could be a good thing.
Lee: It does look like a good month for toys and trades. Not so much in the single issue format. That’s not true, single issues is more of the same old- same old.
Gwen: I'll be more interested in "toys" when I can buy a working Batmoblie - and not the one from the new movies.