Tag Archives: america

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

Posted on by

Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Joe

Top Pick: Superman #20 (DC Comics) – With the Superman Reborn arc finishing, I cannot wait to see where this book goes. The creative team has been amazing on this run, and it looks like we are going to get more information on Mr. Oz, and what we saw in the first Rebirth book. I love this comic!

Batman #20 (DC Comics) – Tom King has been building toward a crazy ending (hopefully), and this book has been off the wall with Bane being more crazed than ever. I trust King as a writer and expect all of this craziness and slow burn to pay off.

Extremity #2 (Image) – This is such a beautifully drawn comic, and Johnson writes the hell out of this book too. I have high hopes for this comic, and the first issue was amazing.

Paper Girls #13 (Image) – This book by Brian K. Vaughn has been so much fun, and it is an awesome 80s movie following the formula of Goonies or Stand By Me with all females. This is one of the best books out.

Black Science #29 (Image) – Remender doesn’t write too much I do not like, and this is one of his best.

 

Paul

Top Pick: X-Men Gold #1 (Marvel) – I am very excited for this book!  Just when I thought Marvel had written off my favourite characters, we get ‘ResurrXion’ and the X-Men are coming back in force.  I’m loving the line up of this book (not loving Rachel’s new ‘Prestige’ name and look) but these are some of my favourite X-Men and I know this is going to be an exciting book.

Royals #1 (Marvel) – So the Inhumans are heading to space, and I will be along for the ride.  I’m curious as to how Marvel Boy plays into this, but it should be a fun romp to see the Inhumans travel space and discover unknown secrets about their race.

Uncanny Avengers #22 (Marvel) – The Red Skull has been captured and now the Avengers are going to perform brain surgery to remove Charles Xavier’s brain and telepathic abilities from the Skull.  But what’s going to happen is anyone’s guess, and I’m sure this all isn’t going to go very smoothly.  It’s all been leading to this and I can’t wait to see how it ends.

 

Alex

Top Pick: Faith #10 (Valiant) – I’m a huge fan of this series, and I make no effort to hide that.

X-Men Gold #1 (Marvel) – A new X-Men team book… I’m hoping it’ll be fun.

Nightwing #18 (DC Comics) – Hands down the best biweekly Batman family book right now, and this issue sees the former Batman and Robin reunited in the third part of the current arc. I do so enjoy the interaction between Nightwing and Damian.

All-New Wolverine #19 (Marvel) – I’ve been waiting for a new story arc to start in this series so that I can jump on board, and it looks like that point is finally here.

 

Shay

It’s a week of Lady Powered awesomeness at the comic book shop.

Top Pick: America #2 (Marvel) – In an issue that spawned the line ” Try me, Becky” America cranks it up to eleven and I’m all the way here for it!

Top Pick: Harley Quinn #17 (DC Comics) – Harley Quinn and Harley Sin are about to go head to head in the start of the Deadly Sin story arc. Got popcorn?

Hawkeye #5 (Marvel) – Hawkeye is opening her own PI shop and who doesn’t love some good Marvel universe mysteries?

Jessica Jones #7 (Marvel) – She’s trying to have it all and we are all rooting for her, especially with the way the writers screwed the pooch last time.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Motor Girl #5 (Abstract Studios) – Writer and artist Terry Moore has been crushing it on this series that is just too weird to describe. UFOs, a talking gorilla, protecting a junkyard, it’s fun sci-fi that has a kick-ass female lead and is packed with heart and humor.

Colossi #1 (Vault Comics) – With every release so far Vault comics has delivered an entertaining read. Written by Ricard Mo with art by Alberto Muriel and Amaya Diaz, Colossi is solid sci-fi with a shuttle being sucked into a wormhole and the passengers lost in a parallel universe fighting to survive.

Eleanor & The Egret #1 (Aftershock Comics) – Writer John Layman and artist Sam Kieth alone are reason enough for me to be excited for this series that revolves around a daring art thief.

Kill Shakespeare: Past is Prologue – Juliet #1 (IDW Publishing) – The Kill Shakespeare world is back!!! It’s been too long and I’m beyond excited to return to this world that’s a nice twist on the classic characters. Even someone like me who doesn’t know a lot of Shakespeare can enjoy it.

Love & Rockets Magazine #2 (Fantagraphics Books) – It’s Love & Rockets, do I need to give more of a reason than that?

Preview: America #2

Posted on by

America #2

(W) Gabby Rivera (A) Joe Quinones
Rated T+
In Shops: Apr 05, 2017
SRP: $3.99

OKAY, LADIES, NOW LET’S GET IN FORMATION!!

America Chavez’s first semester of college is off to an epic start. That’s right…homework on the first day! The assignment? A field trip to the frontlines of World War II! Most freshman would be intimidated – but most freshman aren’t dimension-hoping heroes with Captain America as their wingman! Meanwhile, unexpected fallout from an Ultimates’ mission begins to wreak havoc on not only America’s life but also the larger Marvel Universe as a whole!

America #1 Returns With a New Printing in April

Posted on by

She’s the leader of the Ultimates. She punches so hard she can shatter the barriers between dimensions. And now she’s returning to comic shops for a second round! Marvel has announced that America #1 has completely sold out at the distributor level (though copies may be available at retail level) and will return for a brand new printing! But that’s not all, to celebrate the release of this can’t-miss debut-issue, Marvel is offering up three separate covers for the America #1 Second Printing – from artists Joe Quinones, Jamie McKelvie and Jeffrey Veregge!

Missed the first issue? Don’t worry! You’ll get another chance to grab a copy of the first issue when it returns to comic shops on April 12th! Superstar YA writer Gabby Rivera and fan-favorite artist Joe Quinones take America Chavez solo for the first time in a debut that has the critics buzzing!

She’s stood side-by-side with some of the most powerful heroes in the Marvel Universe. But now it’s time for her to go it alone. It’s not too late to jump on board the series that has the world watching! Grab your copy and be on the lookout for issue #2 – available April 5th!

Around the Tubes

Posted on by

sm_cv18_dsIt was new comic book day yesterday. What’d folks get? What’d you like? What didn’t you like? Sound off in the comments. While you decide on that, here’s some comic news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

Around the Tubes

The Beat – A Year of Free Comics: Brooklyn is A New, Strange Superhero Society in Haspiel’s The Red Hook – Free comics! Go read!

CBR – Logan Director Working On Black & White Version Of Film – Having seen the film already, a black and white version would be amazing.

ICv2 – International Tabletop Day Promo Items Revealed – Some interesting items.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Newsarama – America #1

Newsarama – Avengers #5

Newsarama – Batman #18

ICv2 – The Best We Can Do: An Illustrated Memoir

Newsarama – Superman #18

Review: America #1

Posted on by

america_1_coverThis was a one “Wepa” issue and it ended with Hitler getting a fist to the dome, everything that happened in between the pages of writer Gabby Rivera‘s go at America’s solo series is pure gold and I’m here for it! The beginning issue of this much-awaited stand-alone series for everyone’s new favorite queer Hispanic bad ass is everything we hoped for and more. Rivera manages to keep the cliches at a minimum, there was a requisite wepa but, nothing that made America feel like a stereotype or caricature. In between the pages of this issue, we are treated to some amazing character development, real emotions and a connection to an imaginary character that feels so real and fleshed out that we feel free enough to have real feelings about her and her situation.

Rivera is tasked with squeezing a story and hook within a minimal number of pages, America is Marvel‘s first queer Hispanic superhero and this coming out story is layered, clever and emotional. America’s age adds to the story and provides a cue for her feelings and actions, she is trying to find herself, thinks she knows everything, yet is self-aware to get that she doesn’t have it all figured out. This issue shows a gut punch of a break-up, leaving America heart broken and feeling alone, there’s also a fresh start at a new college, a familiar face in an old teammate and, some time tavel that places our hero face to face with Hitler and Captain America!

Joe Quinones provides some stellar pencil work giving us some crisp lines, well defined features and an ethnic super hero that looks authentic and not just like a white super hero with a tan. Joe Rivera and Paolo Rivera lay down some stellar inking and Jose Villarrubia gives the issue color that is both authentic in its simplicity when it needs to be and, stylized when it’s full of pop & needs to be fun. Bonus points for the team making sure that America looks Hispanic in a way that doesn’t several up imagery of Liz Taylor as Cleopatra. The rainbow flag outside of America’s lady loves partner is a nice intro and foreshadowing of what’s going to happen when the door opens. I’m also a fan of the throwback style used in the ending pages of the issue when she’s pushed back in time facing Nazis in WWII Germany.

Overall, I found this issue to be a rapid-fire, clever and interesting setup. The writing is solid and appropriate for a young superhero, the story was realistic (in comic book storytelling format). The main character is thoroughly fleshed out, auxiliary characters were shown in a way that not only introduced them but, gave an insight to their personality. This is a great comic book for tweens and up. I suspect it will resonate immensely with the young adult comic book readers who can identify either as LGBT, Hispanic, or female (and any combo of that) who are looking for heroes that resemble them in any way. Rivera doesn’t take her task of inclusion lightly and, makes America story about America and her journey without using her as a cheap gimmick. This issue is a nice starting point for America’s solo debut and, I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here.

Story: Gabby Rivera Art: Joe Quinones Inkers: Joe Rivera & Paolo Rivera Color: Jose Villarrubia
Story: 8.9 Art: 8.8 Overall: 8.9 Recommendation: Buy

Marvel Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Preview: America #1

Posted on by

America #1

(W) Gabby Rivera (A) Joe Quinones
Rated T+
In Shops: Mar 01, 2017
SRP: $3.99

At last! Everyone’s favorite no-nonsense powerhouse, America Chavez, gets her own series!
Written by critically-acclaimed YA novelist Gabby Rivera (Juliet Takes A Breath) and drawn by all-star artist Joe Quinones (HOWARD THE DUCK), Marvel Comics’ brand new AMERICA series shines a solo spotlight on the high-octane and hard-hitting adventures of the one and only America Chavez!

America has always been uncontestably awesome, and as the newly appointed leader of the Ultimates, she’s now officially claimed her place as the preeminent butt-kicker of the Marvel Universe! But while leading a team of heroes and punching out big bads is great and all, it doesn’t really leave much time for self-discovery… So what’s a super-powered teenager do when she’s looking for a little fulfillment? She goes to college!

She just has to stop an interdimensional monster or two first, plus shut down a pesky alien cult that’s begun worshipping her exploits!
america_1_cover

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

Posted on by

batman-18Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: Logan (yes, my top pick is a movie) – Wolverine has always been my favourite Marvel character, and is the reason I read comics today. On the week that I turn another year older I get both Old Man Logan and Logan – it almost feels like Marvel are wishing me a happy birthday.

Old Man Logan #19 (Marvel) – Alex’s Week of Wolverine continues with Jeff Lemire – I don’t remember if his Brood storyline is over or not (I’ve read a lot of Wolverine comics over the past couple days), but this series has been strong for a long time and I can’t wait to get my hands on it.

Faith #9 (Valiant) – A one-shot story that seems to be more of a day-in-the-life than anything else, which I’m super happy about because I love reading about the other side of a superhero’s life.

Batman #18 (DC Comics) – I didn’t expect to be looking forward to reading a comic from this series again, but I’ve been cautiously optimistic about what Tom King has been doing here after the last couple of issues. While I think there’s more chance than not that this’ll disappoint, when it’s good King’s Batman is really good.

 

Joe

Top Pick: Royal City #1 (Image) – Jeff Lemire has been one of the best creators in comics the last few years. I love his work on Black Hammer, Old Man Logan, Moon Knight, AD: After Death, and much more. He is one of the few talents that can write and draw, and here with this book we are getting both. Royal City tells the tales of middle America and a real family. There’s also some interesting mystery to discover. I cannot wait!

Extremity #1 (Image) – From the minute I saw the art style on this book I wanted it. The premise is about a child that has their drawing hand chopped off by oppressive tyrants that have taken over their lands. While they learn to draw with their other hand, it isn’t the same. This is about rising up to fight oppression, and finding your identity when the thing you loved to do most is taken from you. It has a powerful metaphorical message, and I think this book will be something special as we get deeper into the story.

Superman #18 (DC Comics) – We are finally going to get some answers! Mr. Oz, fake Clark Kent, and more will seemingly be explained over the next few issues of Superman and Action Comics, two of DC’s best series. This along with the upcoming button issues for Batman and Flash have me excited to know more about our heroes lost time, and who this Superman and other fake Clark Kent are.

Batman #18 (DC Comics) – Tom King has been building a powder keg of a story with Bane, Catwoman, and Batman. I am hoping this is where it all explodes, and by the last few pages of Batman #17, it will. Bane knows where to hurt Batman the most, the people he cares for. I like the twists King has given us so far, and am wondering where he goes from here.

Moon Knight #12 (Marvel) – Sadly, one of the best things Marvel has going for it is coming to an end in a few issues. I still have no idea what is happening, but have faith Lemire will give us a great ending to a great book. Is he losing his mind? Or has all of this been real? Perhaps a combination of the two. Great series, and it appears it will go out on a high note.

 

Shay

I couldn’t pick a top pick this week. It’s all so damn good! From socially conscious comics to girl-powered comics, to straight up anarchy and good old fashioned action, it’s a great week to be all about that comic life!

Harley Quinn#15 (DC Comics) – Harley breaks her peace with the Mayor to save the homeless, fight gentrification and, more.

The Dregs #2 (Black Mask Studios) – Dig deeper into this socially conscious detective drama as we are taken on a journey to find out the fate of the homeless population.

X-Files Deviation 2017 (IDW Publishing) – Mashing up X-Files & Orphan Black and a lady Mulder! Shut up and take my money!!!

America #1 (Marvel) – It’s heeeeeree and, I’m here for it!

Bullseye #2 (Marvel) – Bullseye is on a mission to rescue a mobsters son, he’s in the murder business and business is good!

 

Paul

Top Pick: Champions #6 (Marvel) – This has been a fun, action packed series right from the beginning.  These characters make up a great team, and the writing has been on point, spotlighting issues that readers can relate to but also bringing in humour and fun between the characters.  I’m excited for this issue, seeing the team go up against another team of teens calling themselves The Freelancers.  I’m looking forward to see who makes up this new team and what their beef is with the Champions.

Batman #18 (DC Comics) – This is one of the few DC titles I have stuck with since the Rebirth, and it has consistently delivered.  I’m really enjoying this current story arc with Bane, especially when Batman put together his own suicide squad (a great couple of issues!)  And now, as the solicit says, Bane is in Gotham and looking for some payback.  Definitely not one to miss.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Motor Girl #4 (Abstract Studios) – Easily my favorite comic on the market right now. Terry Moore’s writing and art are just plain fun. Every issue has delivered and then some.

America #1 (Marvel) – A fan favorite character gets her solo series. I’m intrigued to see what it’s like and if it delivers. This is the comic that has the highest bar to get over.

Savage Things #1 (Vertigo) – Justin Jordan does Vertigo… you need more?

Agents of PACT #1/Freelance #1 (Chapterhouse Comics) – These two first issues I feel really kick off Chapterhouse’s superhero universe. So far most of their comics have been fun, so more to the part is awesome

All Time Comics Crime Destroyer #1 (Fantagraphics) – Another superhero universe launching. This one is a bit retro.

Smoketown #1 (Scout Comics) – Phillip Kennedy Johnson’s new series from Scout Comics. Johnson does solid comics and so does Scout, so the combo is something I’m looking forward to reading.

America #1 Explodes Into Comic Shops This March – A First Look!

Posted on by

Everyone’s favorite no-nonsense, hard-hitting heroine – America Chavez – is now starring in her very own series! That’s right, True Believer, it’s dimension-punching, high-octane superhero action as only the fan-favorite character can supply. Marvel has released a first look inside the hotly anticipated America #1 – coming to comic shops everywhere on March 1st! Superstar YA writer Gabby Rivera joins critically acclaimed artist Joe Quinones to take Marvel’s Latina powerhouse to the next level!

As the new leader of the Ultimates, America has cemented herself as the preeminent butt-kicker of the entire Marvel Universe. But when your punch is enough to shatter the barriers between worlds, sometimes being a super hero can get in the way of self-discovery. So what’s a super powered teenager to do for a little fulfillment? She goes to college! …Right after she punches out a few interdimensional monsters and takes down a pesky alien cult.

She’s stood side-by-side with some of the most powerful heroes in the Marvel Universe, but now it’s time for her to fly solo. Be there as America plants her feet, punches her way through dimensions and faces off against an oncoming alien horde — all while managing a social life and a full class load.

The first issue features covers by Quinones, Cliff Chiang, Jamie McKelvie, Skottie Young, John Tyler Christopher, and Jeffrey Veregge.

america_1_cover

Gabby Rivera and Joe Quinones take on Marvel’s America!

Posted on by

Next year, prepare for some of the hardest hitting Super Hero action Marvel Comics can muster – so hard that it will literally shatter the barriers between worlds. Marvel Comics presents America!

Coming in March, 2017, critically-acclaimed YA novelist, Gabby Rivera, and artist Joe Quinones continue the high-octane adventures of America Chavez, Marvel’s Latina powerhouse, as she plants her feet, punches her way through dimensions, and faces off against an oncoming alien horde all while managing her social life and trying to attend various classes on alternate Earths.

Since her introduction, Chavez has stood side-by-side with some of the most powerful heroes in the Marvel Universe and next year America is ready to set a new course which will alter her in drastic new ways.

In an interview, Rivera said:

America doesn’t know how powerful she is, but she’s gonna find out. And the powers she does have are going to be expanded upon and she’s going to learn how to control and develop them.

I think some of the really fun Marvel moments are gonna be when we bring in key players like Captain America and Storm. They are going to be able to help America on her journey. And teach her things about her powers or lead her along the way.

Marvel Comics’ America breaks through and arrives in comic book shops this upcoming March, 2017.

Recent Entries »