Blindbox Comics is a monthly comic book subscription box that includes five regular monthly releases and one exclusive variant cover. Or, you can order just the variant. Or, you can order just the comics.
We open up and show off the latest box released, going over the comics plus a variant! Find out what’s inside!
AGENTS OF P.A.C.T. #1
The CHAPTERVERSE launches with this brand new series!
The X-Files meets Velvet meets Birds of Prey. In Canada.
There’s an extra-dimensional breach in the Canadian North. Enter P.A.C.T., the paranormal investigation arm of CSIS. With Captain Canuck AWOL, P.A.C.T director Manon DesChamps (formerly Fleur De Lys) must forge her own team of super-agents, pulled from Equilibrium, the Aurora Dawn, and other less savoury sources.
She affectionately calls them her Fleurs de Conflit but to the world at large, they are: The Agents of P.A.C.T.!
Cover A- Sanya Anwar | Cover B- Blank Sketch
Written by Kalman Andrasofszky & Blake Northcott |
Illustrated by Federica Manfredi | 32 pages, 6.25/10.18 | Full Color | $3.99
Diamond Order# Cover A: NOV161360 | Cover B: NOV161361
DIE KITTY DIE # 4
With her publishers out to get her and the possibility of a reboot looming over her head, what will comic book star and real life witch, Kitty Ravencraft, do? Find out in the fourth and final issue of the debut arc of DIE, KITTY! DIE!
Chapterhouse Comics and worldwide fan favorites, Dan Parent & Fernando Ruiz present: “DIE, KITTY DIE!” – a funny, exciting, and often, sexy story about a girl caught in both the supernatural world of witches, and the super-crazy world of comics!
Cover A- Fernando Ruiz | Cover B- Dan Parent |
Written and Illustrated by Fernando Ruiz and Dan Parent |
32 pages, 6.25/10.18 | Full Color | $3.99
Diamond Order# Cover A: NOV161362 | Cover B: NOV161363
FREELANCE #1
The CHAPTERVERSE launches with this brand new series!
Lance Valiant, John Cabot, and Tasha Kolchak are fearless explorers who delve into hidden secrets of our world and protect us from threats beyond imagination, but the greatest secret of all may be Lance’s own mysterious past…
Pulse-pounding action, wit, intrigue, and globe-trotting romance – One of Canada’s original heroes is reborn for the Chapterhouse era by writers Andrew Wheeler (Another Castle) and Jim Zub (Thunderbolts), and artist Vineda Vireak (51Hundred)!
Cover A – Alex Perkins | Cover B – Blank Sketch
Written by Jim Zub & Andrew Wheeler | Illustrated by Vaneda Vireak |
32 pages, 6.25/10.18 | Full Color | $3.99
Diamond Order# Cover A: NOV161365 | Cover B: NOV161365
THE FOURTH PLANET #4
The Fourth Planet, a quarterly written by Fred Kennedy (Host- Teletoon at Night, The Edge) and brilliantly illustrated by Miko Maciaszek continues with it’s ‘Fourth’ exciting issue!
Jump on board with this sci-fi epic that has been described as “A song of Space and Fire” A sure hit with fans of Sci-Fi with complex political and personal examination!
Cover A- Miko Maciaszek | Written by Fred Kennedy | Illustrated by Miko Maciaszek |
32 pages, 6.25/10.18 | Full Color | $3.99
Diamond Order#: NOV161364
Fernando Ruiz and Dan Parent have got the makings of a possible grindhouse style, pulp, cult comic on their hands. I decided to review this one simply because I thought the title sounded cool. The first couple of pages were over the top campy but, I think that’s what sucked me in. The whole comic was super meta at times and switched from the real world to the comic book, to the comic book in the comic book. If you allow yourself to go with it, you’ll have just as much fun with Die Kitty Die #1 as I did.The artwork was reminiscent of the old school Archie comics which is what they were going for (and not surprising considering Parent’s history with the company). It worked well with the story that they were telling and the tone of the script. The intro of Kitty and the reveal of her witch powers in the opening mini scene was very well done. The flash forward to an adult kitty looking back on her comic book and spin-off empire was also well done. There was an abruptness to it that played off of the nostalgia in the first story.
The artwork was reminiscent of the old school Archie comics which is what they were going for (and not surprising considering Parent’s history with the company). It worked well with the story that they were telling and the tone of the script. The intro of Kitty and the reveal of her witch powers in the opening mini scene was very well done. The flash forward to an adult kitty looking back on her comic book and spin-off empire was also well done. There was an abruptness to it that played off of the nostalgia in the first story.
There were a few not so subtle callbacks to the old comics and some pretty blatant similarities between a few of the main characters that the comic books drawn from. It could have given off a stale vibe, except it felt original because of the dark turn the characters took. Ruiz and Parent paid homage to the oldies but, made them better, the way that Marvel’s Deadpool is way better than DeathStroke.
I also like the way that they let Kitty be in control of her own sexuality without making her an object, in fact, they made it so that when she was seen as an object she was able to take back control. Kitty has good business sense and she’s used it to make serious bank, she’s beautiful but she’s also smarter than people give her credit for. I like that instead of going for cheap gratuitous nudity, Ruiz and Parent chose to highlight Kitty’s figure in a way that would make the audience feel like they were being silly for focusing on it any longer than necessary. Their drawing and wording put out a very clear but, subtle message that said, “Yes! She has breasts. Now can we move on with the story?”
Die Kitty Die takes a darker turn towards the end of the story with a twist that’s best to be left to be experienced by the reader.
Ruiz and Parent picked a perfect point to stop this issue. It left the readers invested in Kitty and her story but, it also put us on the edge of our seats. Would Kitty escape the clutches of her traitor friend? Will she survive the series? Will she turn the tables on her publishers? So many questions and so long to wait until the next issue but, I can wait. I think Die Kitty Die is worth it!
Story and Art: Fernando Ruiz and Dan Parent
Story: 8.5 Art: 7.6 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Chapterhouse Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review
Sometimes, the staff at Graphic Policy read more comics than we’re able to get reviewed. When that happens you’ll see a weekly feature compiling short reviews from the staff of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full review for. These are Graphic Policy’s Mini Reviews.
Alex
Action Comics #964 (DC) It’s hard to explain how enjoyable this issue was, because on the face of things, it was largely just two men talking with a bit of flashback action. The dialogue was very well done, and despite being the second part of a story, can easily be read as a standalone. Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy
Conan The Slayer #3 (Dark Horse) Action! Adventure! A story that takes place within about ten minutes, and feels so very Conan. If you like fantasy comics, this is the one for you. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Detective Comics #941 (DC) The Night Of The Monster Men crossover continues, and I kinda just want it over and done with. It’s just not doing it for me, and the need to pick up multiple series to follow the story is kinda annoying. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Pass
Generation Zero #2 (Valiant) A solid second issue that builds on the foundations of the first a little slower than I’d have liked. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read
Hal Jordan And The Green Lantern Corps (DC) This issue is the calm before the storm, and I cannot wait until the storm breaks over the yellow lanterns – hopefully the next issue, but the build up is being teased out so well I’m happy to wait a little longer. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Brett
Captain Canuck #9 (Chapterhouse Comics)** – A gap between issues isn’t helping as the story is taking some effort to remember all of the details. Still, it’s a fun comic that ties into the sister series Northguard. The comic continues to deliver action without the grim and gritty. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read
Detective Comics #941 (DC Comics) – “Night of the Monster Men” continues and it still feels like an original story. It doesn’t blow me away, but it’s entertaining to read. There’s some good twists and to see Gotham Girl enter the fight is interesting enough. Overall: 7.05 Recommendation: Read
Northguard #2 (Chapterhouse Comics)** – The more Americanized Canadian superhero the series features the CIA and some Canadian jokes from an American perspective. It’s similar in tone to Captain Canuck and hasn’t quite stood out on its own, but it’ll be interesting to see how it does that. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read
The Flash #7 (DC Comics) – The Flash battles Godspeed and I’m really digging this storyline. It really feels like we’ve got a solid speedster villain that doesn’t wear yellow spandex and the fact he’s also sort of doing good is a twist. The Flash has been entertaining and continues to be. The art too is solid matching the excitement of the story. Overall: 7.95 Recommendation: Read
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #5 (DC Comics) – I’ve a Green Lantern fan for a while now and the series feels like it’s getting back to form. Much of the issue is Hal talking to Soranik catching up on what’s going on, but it’s a good issue for that. The ending has me really excited. Overall: 7.85 Recommendation: Read
Suicide Squad #3 (DC Comics) – Two stories again, the main one just isn’t holding up and feels like an action film with no depth. Jim Lee’s art doesn’t save it. The back-up story with Katana is fantastic, especially the art. Overall: 6.95 Recommendation: Pass
Surgeon X #1 (Image Comics) – A future world where antibiotics are in limited supply and resistant bugs are running rampant. I’m still trying to figure out exactly where the comic is going, but it’s a very interesting in presenting a world that’s all too much a possibility. Overall: 8.15 Recommendation: Buy
Titans #3 (DC Comics) – We find out who hid Wally West in time and also a lot more teasers of the greater story of Rebirth and who has messed with time overall. Lots of hints are peppered through, so expect this to be a key issue as far as that. Really entertaining comic though. Overall: 8.05 Recommendation: Buy
Patrick
Black Hammer #3 (Dark Horse)**: I wrote about the Martian Manhunter in my review for Weird Detective #4, so I had J’onn J’onzz on my mind and lo and behold, Jeff Lemire brings us the story of Barbalien, aka Mark Markz. The more I read of his stuff the more I’m 
convinced that his strength lies in character, not plot. He puts a nice queer twist on the shapeshifter alien type, but it’s fairly superficial – in the Spiral City flashback, he never really goes for just how alien Mark’s feelings would have been in the context of what I assume is the 1950’s and in the police brotherhood. Somebody please give him less work so that he has the time to delve deeper into his material! Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read
Descender #15 (Image)**: Another Jeff Lemire personal flashback issue, this time dealing with cyborg leader Queen Between aka Effie. The story of Andy and Effie’s lifelong romance is touching and sweet, and gives Effie’s gradual transformation from refugee orphan to robot empathizer to sympathizer to cyborg a real cost – that being Andy. But since Andy can’t change, her loss is also Andy’s. Very nicely done, Mr. Lemire. Oh, and Dustin Nguyen knocks it out of the park once again. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Saga #38 (Image)**: Another confounding issue. On the one hand, I really loved the bravado of jumping ahead six months while the gang are stranded to refuel. On the other, in a book like this, in a universe like the one Vaughan & Staples have set up, in the plot that is rolling, how does nothing happen in six months? And, maybe because I have a pre-kindergartener at home, how does a child Hazel’s age not change at all in six months? That length of time, given all of these circumstances, should be an eternity, but it’s treated like a blip. Not cool, guys. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Skip
Ryan C
Blue Beetle #1 (DC)** – Continuing the fun and light-hearted tone established in the earlier “Rebirth” special, Keith Giffen and Scott Kollins hit all the right notes as the Ted Kord/ Jaime Reyes tandem goes into action on the less-than-mean streets of El Paso, Texas with the spectre of at least “a” Dr. Fate — but is it “the” Dr. Fate? — looming in the background. Just a really good effing time. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Lake Of Fire #2 (Image)** – Nathan Fairbairn and Matt Smith have a definite hit on their hands with this sci-fi-meets-sword-and-sorcery five-parter, and as the threat our motley crew face makes itself known more fully in this installment, tragedy isn’t too far off and the death of a principal cast member shakes readers to the core. When the demise of a character introduced to readers only a month ago has that kind of an impact, you know you’re talking about a damn good comic. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy.
Tales From The Darkside #4 (IDW)** : Joe Hill, Michael Benedetto, and Gabriel Rodriguez conclude their four-part comics adaptation of the scuttled TV show revival with a fairly simple and pleasing wrap-up segment that ties all the previous issues together and leaves things on a predictably ambiguous note. Far from earth-shattering stuff, but certainly better than “good enough,” and validates the opinion that it’s too bad this series never made it to the small screen. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read
Frostbite #1 (DC/Vertigo)** : A reasonably effective introduction to life in a future new Ice Age with a well-written script from Joshua Williamson and absolutely fantastic art from Jason Shawn Alexander. The unsung hero of the book may be editor Jamie S. Rich, though, given that this comic is remarkably absent the embarrassing and frequent basic grammar and syntax errors that plague Williamson’s other work, most notably “The Flash” and “Nailbiter.” Plenty of imaginative stuff on offer here, and I’m very curious to see where this six-parter goes. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read
Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.
Please note that with some of the above comics, Graphic Policy was provided FREE copies for review. Where we purchased the comics, you’ll see an asterisk (*). If you don’t see that, you can infer the comic was a review copy. In cases where we were provided a review copy and we also purchased the comic you’ll see two asterisks (**).
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.
Anthony
Top Pick: Wayward #16 (BOOM! Studios) – Wayward returns and looks to switch gears from its setting in Japan back to Rori’s homeland: Ireland. The team of Jim Zub, Steven Cummings, Tamra Bonvillain and Marshall Dillon (and some always excellent back material) created a very energetic and emotional ride in Japan with a battle between the traditional yokai and the new school of people with powers. It will be exciting to see what will be incorporated in Rori and her friend’s world with Ireland and its rich folk tale history being brought to life.
Island #11 (Image Comics) – Island has been a consistent treat from its inception, featuring a wide variety of creator stories that are a pleasure for the eyes and mind. This issue features Matt Sheehan and Malachi Ward (whose story reaches its conclusion) and pieces from Grim Wilkins and Robin Bougie.
Saga #38 (Image Comics) – It’s Saga. Nuff said.
Generation Zero #2 (Valiant) – Valiant is one of those companies whose titles are always worthy of taking a stab with each and every first issue. The first issue of Generation Zero focused on Keisha Sherman and her personal investment in revealing the shady things going on in her hometown. The members of the former Project Rising Spirit team called Generation Zero were more in the background during the first issue but look to thrust themselves forward as they meet with Keisha for the first time.
Kim and Kim #3 (Black Mask Studios) – It’s great having a title that truly cares about fleshing out its characters first and foremost, while the plot progresses alongside. This isn’t to say that the story and world of Kim and Kim isn’t lively or vibrant, it embodies just that, but the true heart belongs between the two titular characters weaving in and out of this sci-fi adventure romp.
Alex
Top Pick: The Paybacks #3 (Heavy Metal Comics) – There have been so many great comics released this year, and many of them from publishers other than Marvel and DC. This is one of them. What started out as a brilliant take on super-heroic debt has taken on a new life as the second series kicked off with a question of how far would you go to clear said debt, wrapped up in a brutally funny cast of characters. If you can find this, buy it.
Action Comics #964 (DC Comics) – Superman takes Clark Kent to his fortress of solitude (kinda). If that sounds interesting to you, then you need to read this.
Conan The Slayer #3 (Dark Horse) – When you think of Conan, violence is often not far away. And this comic has an almost poetic brutality to the fight scenes, which is awesome, but it’s Cullen Bunn’s narration style the has a throwback feel to the pulp novels where Conan first appeared that really pulls me in. I can’t get enough of this series.
Hal Jordan and The Green Lantern Corps #5 (DC Comics) – This is an honest surprise for me. I never used to like Green Lantern, but this series (as well as Green Lanterns) have been one of the highlights post Rebirth for me. I can’t wait for this one.
X-O Manowar #50 (Valiant) – Well, here we are. The final chapter in the current run of X-O Manowar is promising to be epic, and part of that is the large page count. The breakneck pace of the story so far has been exhilarating, and that nothing has been going well for X-O and his allies when facing the godlike Torment leads me to believe that we’re going to see a sacrifice of some kind this issue.
Javier
Top Pick: The X-Files: Origins #2 (IDW Publishing) – I’m re-living reading those old Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew mysteries from back in the day, with Jody Houser’s and Matthew Dow Smith’s take on a juvenile Scully and Mulder.
Deadly Class #22 (Image Comics) – Rick Remender starts a new arc with the survivors from the last installment’s bloodbath, and a new incoming freshman class. Plus, I still don’t believe Marcus is really dead.
The Paybacks (Vol. 2) #3 (Heavy Metal Comics) – Superheroes in debt, willing to do anything to pay off their outstanding balances. I know I’d kill to get rid of some of my old student loan debt.
Lake of Fire #2 (Image Comics) – Crusaders and Heretics versus Aliens? I liked Cowboys versus Aliens, so why not. I’m in for now.
Bloodshot Reborn #17 (Valiant) – One of my favorite series from Valiant. It is consistently well written by Jeff Lemire, and the art is top notch (with Mico Suayan for this issue).
Jason
Star Trek: Waypoint #1 (IDW Publishing) – Even as a kid I was shrewd about my money and quickly learnt that a lot of my passions and obsessions had some truly awful and lazy spin-offs, Star Trek being one of the worst offending money grabbing staples of my youth, and one I happily ignored for a decade or two. I’m a fan, but money will always trump slavish in my devotion to any ‘franchise’, even now. Except somewhere in between then and now licensed properties quietly became, well, kinda awesome. Titans’s unstoppable Doctor Who or BOOM!’s magic touch on the seemingly inexhaustible Adventure Time comics get great ideas and writers and the readers will follow. Even so, I’ve been skeptical of my childhood repeat offender until now.
Waypoint is a brand new series from IDW offering up anthology stories from all across the breadth and time of the thankfully lens flare free Prime Universe for all us bitter old school nerds. This time around with two stories, a classic original series story by Sandra Lanz and one that finally got me buying Star Trek comics again, “Puzzles”. Written by Donny Cates and Mack Chater set sometime after the Next Generation, with a mysterious ship appearing, with Data and Geordie sent out to investigate. Not giving too much away, it gives a heady sci-fi spin on Data and Geordie’s unusual but lasting friendship and the preview pages made me smile with where Cates and Chater have taken it and how much they understand the unusual pairing.
Jonesy Vol. 1 (BOOM! Studios) – Collecting all six issues of the colourful, charming and captivating miniseries from writer Sam Humpries and artist Caitlin Rose Boyle. Self described “cool dork” Jonesy, introduces readers to her high school life, spending her time making zines and most importantly, using her super secret power to make people fall in love. A modern day Cupid with converse, plaid and attitude.
Like Allison or Tynion, it’s hard to believe this isn’t written by teenagers. Told from our anarchic math makers point of view the dialogue is snappy and genuine, coupling perfectly with the delightfully brash and vivid cartoon style of Boyle, it would appeal to fans of slice of life fantasy-realism like Scott Pilgrim or Giant Days.
Shay
Top Pick: Black Panther Epic Collection TP Panther’s Rage (Marvel) – Marvel has always been a master of political undertones. They’ve brought light to injustices in a palatable way to bring the masses together. This is a throwback TP where we get some of the awesome that is Black Panther and why he’s so important, not just to the MCU but, to the world. This collections shows the Panther taking care of business in Wakanda, sharing some of their culture. It expands horizons which is great for promoting global awareness in a time , much like now, where people don’t think about their neighbor , let alone people far away . This TP follows him from his culture to the south in the US where he fights the Klan and Soul Strangler. Considering how race relations are in this country , and across the world, this is a great time to read this and remind ourselves what’s at stake, what used to be, and what could be again. Understanding leads to compassion and compassion leads to the end of hate.
Batgirl #3 (DC Comics) – Part 3 of the Beyond Burnside arc is getting popcorn at the movies good. There’s a second villain, the mysterious “the Student” mark and a trip to Korea keeping BATGIRL hella busy. Should be a fun read.
Suicide Squad #3 (DC Comics) – Has got the people at Bele Reve losing their collective minds thanks to more dark & mysterious forces. Meaning the Suicide Squad doesn’t get to enjoy R & R. In the midst of the chaos the always crazily awesome Harley manages to stay “sane”. Plus more Katana backstory. The Black Vault story arc is interesting and getting better by the issue.
The X-Files: Origins #2 (IDW Publishing) – I need to know what was in the woods that Mulder ran off into to check on his friends after the men in black appeared. I also need to know how Scully’s Sunday school teacher ended up dead and if her father is in for a similar fate. Issue 2 promises to show us the first mystery these two solve, even if it’s not the two of them solving it together.
Kim and Kim #3 (Black Mask Studios) – I’ve been waiting to see what happened next in this awesome LGBT positive space cowboy action comic. I also want to see if the hunt for Lady Babylon leads to some more answers & a stop to the space slave trade.
Brett
Top Pick: Teen Titans: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – A new Teen Titans team headed up by Damian sounds fun and exciting to me. The first issue is really fun and generally what I expected. The clash of personalities is something that should be entertaining and add on top that this sets the team off on the wrong foot makes it even more entertaining.
Captain Canuck #9 (Chapterhouse Comics) – Captain Canuck always puts a smile on my face. It’s a throwback in many ways before comics became grim and gritty and that’s pretty awesome.
M.A.S.K.: Revolution #1 (IDW Publishing) – This is straight up nostalgia for me. I loved these toys growing up and to see them return in comics has me super excited.
The Paybacks #3 (Heavy Metal Comics) – The funniest and most entertaining comic on the shelves right now. Each issue has been amazing.
Tomboy #8 (Action Lab: Danger Zone) – Maybe the best comic you’re not reading? A brutal vigilante story starring a teenage girl.
At Fan Expo this past weekend, Chapterhouse Comics announced they were launching the “Chapterverse,” a comic superhero universe featuring Canadian superheroes. Already the company has three series, Captain Canuck, The Pitiful Human Lizard, and Northguard, but will be launching a new series featuring the character Freelance, a modern take on one of Canada’s oldest original heroes, with Jim Zub and Andrew Wheeler co-writing, and art by Vaneda Vireak.
Zub has described their take on Freelance as a globe-trotting adventurer, kicking butt and exploring mysteries hidden from the world.
Also joining the world is Fantomah, a character in the public domain is credited as the first female comic character with superpowers.
There’ll also be a series called Agents of Pact about an all-woman super team featuring Red Coat and Kébec.We’ll see the new universe bloom in 2017.
We’ll see the new universe bloom in 2017.
Sometimes, the staff at Graphic Policy read more comics than we’re able to get reviewed. When that happens you’ll see a weekly feature compiling short reviews from the staff of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full review for. These are Graphic Policy’s Mini Reviews.
Alex
Action Comics #962 (DC Comics) A fantastic ending to the first arc – this is honestly some of the best Superman I have read in a very long time (but then I don’t read much Superman so that doesn’t mean much). The conclusion to the Doomsday fight is fantastic, with the villain feeling like a genuine threat to Superman’s life – which doesn’t happen often. The first five issues in this comic post Rebirth are easily one of the better biweekly titles DC are putting out right now. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Conan The Slayer #2 (Dark Horse) I’m really enjoying the writing in this series – not the plot direction, although that is also very good, but the words that Cullen Bunn is using; his narration style is a throw back to Robert E. Howard’s writing style, and it makes this series so much more entertaining. This is classic Conan at it’s finest. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy
Kingsway West #1 (Dark Horse) A solid first issue that throws you into the story with little preamble. I enjoy feeling like I’m playing catch up in a new world when said world feels like it’s worth reading about. Greg Pak’s supernatural western looks like it’ll be worth it. Overall: 7.75 Recommendation: Read
Northguard #1 (Chapterhouse Comics) I really wanted to like this, but something just didn’t click for me. I have a feeling it’s because the comic spins out of the main Captain Canuck series, there’s a lot of back story to the character that in’t really covered here. Agent Northguard is at best a reluctant hero, and at worst an outright dick; I’m sure that there’s a reason for this but it’s not really explored here just yet. Overall: 6.5 Recommendation: Read if you’ve been reading Captain Canuck.
Brett
Batgirl #2 (DC Comics): Batgirl taking MMA training? The concept is interesting and in an updated world, it makes a lot of sense. The comic shines with the small details added in of Bab’s observations. I’m digging the new location and direction, something’s clicking here for me though I think there needs to be more exploration of the locations themselves so it doesn’t feel like a Westerner’s generic interpretation of locations. Overall Rating: 8.1 Recommendation: Buy
The Flash #5 (DC Comics): Barry takes a day off! It’s a great issue that focuses on Barry just trying to be himself and not being a hero. The inability to balance work/personal/superhero life is a focus of writer Joshua Willialmson and it’s on full display here. Plus Wally gets a lot of focus too! That ending though… The next issue can’t get here quick enough. Overall Rating: 8.15 Recommendation: Buy
Six Pack & Dog Welder: Hard Travelin Hero’z #1 (DC Comics): I gave up early on Section 8, and I don’t know these characters at all. I generally enjoy Garth Ennis’ work, but this is a miss for me. I think you have to know these characters to really care and while there was some humor, it didn’t land super well for me. There’s so many others doing this same schtick, but better now. Overall Rating: 5.75 Recommendation: Pass
Wonder Woman #5 (DC Comics): The first issue of the series that I’ve really enjoyed. The back and forth between stories has been a problem for the series as a whole, but this issue’s focus of Wonder Woman laying out her problem and Steve Trevor being the damsel in distress begins to bring a better focus and direction, a bit more straight foreward than the winding narrative of the previous few issues. Overall Rating: 7.8 Recommendation: Read
The Hellblazer #1 (DC Comics): A good start to the series laying out what type of Constantine we can expect as a character and at least the first arc. It’s a bit more of a reflective version instead of an arrogant shitheel, but I expect we’ll see the later. I liked the last series, and this is off to a good start. Overall Rating: 7.95 Recommendation: Read
Ryan C
Red Thorn #10 (DC/Vertigo)** – I’m starting to fear for the future of this series as this issue sees a complete 180 degree turn of events from what had gone before, and its highly topical Trump/Brexit overtones have a definite air of the penultimate about them. Let’s hope I’m wrong, though, as David Bailie and Meghan Hetrick are just getting better and better as they go along here, and I’d like to see this book last a good, long time — most every issue is, quite literally, better than the last, and this is no exception. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Blue Beetle: Rebirth #1 (DC)** – A very pleasant surprise here as Keith Giffen and Scott Kolins deliver a “Rebirth” special that isn’t complacent with merely recapping what’s gone before, but actually get a proper story moving while effectively re-introducing us to all the principals involved at the same time. The art’s fun, the dialogue’s fun, the characters are fun — are you getting the idea that this book is fun? Then you’re exactly right. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy
Snotgirl #2 (Image)**: A mild improvement, story-wise, from Bryan Lee O’Malley that makes us question Lottie’s hold on sanity, but if our author really thinks that fashion bloggers have interns working for them, then he’s the one who’s hopelessly out of touch. So, yeah — a bit better, but it still reads like an old guy trying to spin a story out of what he THINKS “youth culture” is all about, rather than reflecting what it’s ACTUALLY like. Leslie Hung’s art is still is still dreamy, ethereal, and magnificent, though. Overall: 4 Recommendation: Pass
Sombra #2 (Boom! Studios)**: More rapid-fire, action-oriented badassery from Justin Jordan and Raul Trevino as they continue to flesh out their “Heart Of Darkness, Mexican-drug-cartel-style” storyline. Energetic, dynamic, full-throttle storytelling at its best, this is shaping up to be a four-parter to remember. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy
Shean
World Of Tanks#1 (Titan): When it comes to comics based on videogames, they usually end up a wash, but one always hopes for that exception to the rule. Thankfully, this comic is anchored by some of the comic world’s heavy hitters, and though there are some noticeable flaws , the story is more than entertaining, it excels. I am not going to lie, this reminds me of the old Sgt. Rock comics, except all of the action is in a tank. Overall, this what David Ayers movie, Fury, was supposed to be, a tense military thriller, that packs a punch. Overall: 9.4 Recommendation: Buy
Kingsway West #1 (Dark Horse): The world of supernatural westerns prove to be a vivid genre all its own. Comics have delved into this world for years, one of the most memorable being Jonah Hex.Greg Pak, is doing his own version , with an alternate history, dragons , meta humans mixed with some Western tropes. Altogether, a strong first issue, which seeks to expand on what Firefly started all those years ago, and who does not want another scruffy gunslinger with a heart of gold. Overall: 9.6 Recommendation: Buy
Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.
Please note that with some of the above comics, Graphic Policy was provided FREE copies for review. Where we purchased the comics, you’ll see an asterisk (*). If you don’t see that, you can infer the comic was a review copy. In cases where we were provided a review copy and we also purchased the comic you’ll see two asterisks (**).
Leaping from the pages of Captain Canuck comes Northguard, Canada’s newest super-hero! His first mission: Track down The Aurora Dawn, a mysterious cult hoping to bring about the end of the world! Chapterhouse Comics‘ Captain Canuck reboot has garnered praise and critical acclaim, now see our take on another classic Canadian superhero, Marc Shainblum and Gabriel Morrisette’s Northguard!
Written by Anthony Falcone with art by Ron Salas, Northguard #1 is exactly what I expected and hoped for, a nice fun throwback in a similar vein as Captain Canuck. The comic is full of action as we’re quickly introduced to the mysteruous Aurora Dawn and Agent Wise, aka Northguard.
While each comic features Canadians in super suits, the two comics have a very different feel to them, though share very similar qualities. This comic too has action and avoids dark and gritty, but it’s also a bit darker in the beginning, and dealing with an cult it has a bit more of a horror vibe to it in some ways (especially that opening page).
What’s also missing is the Canadian factor. One thing I find really interesting with Captain Canuck is the use of French throughout the comic without translation. Northguard has a few French words thrown in, but lacks entire speech bubbles or characters that are specifically Canadian. Agent Wise is a pretty generic guy overall, which isn’t a bad thing, and so far there’s not enough of a supporting cast to really make things stand out with a distinct Canadian voice. The first issue also has the main character flying solo and working for the CIA, so that may be a reason why.
The art by Ron Salas is solid and fun. It keeps a consistent style with Captain Canuck, which helps create a coherent look to the world. The action is good and scenes are set up nicely, though some have a lot of empty space. It’s not bad in any way, I’d just have visually set some of the fight differently as opposed to panned out shots. There’s nothing that detracts and the art fits the tone of the comic.
I’ve been looking forward to Northguard #1 and had high hopes going in. The comic didn’t disappoint me at all and continues the solid work began in Captain Canuck. Chapterhouse Comics looks to have another fun series on its hands.
Story: Anthony Falcone Art: Ron Salas
Story: 7.75 Art: 7 Overall: 7.75 Recommendation: Read
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.
Alex
Top Pick: Faith #2 (Valiant) – I really can’t say enough about how much I’m enjoying this series. If you’re not reading it you’re missing out on one of the best comics from any publisher being released right now. Faith is a series that’s fun, that has a more positive outlook on things and takes some very light jabs at industry tropes. And it’s visually stunning.
Action Comics #962 (DC Comics) – It’s not often that I read a comic where Superman feels like he’s actually in a fight for his life, so watching the Man Of Steel in a rematch against Doomsday has been incredibly fun – even if the chances of him losing are nil.
Blue Beetle Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – I recently dug out the pre-New 52 run featuring Jaime Reyes, and wondered why I never read the series through the New 52 iteration. With how easy many of the Rebirth comics have been for new readers, I’m looking forward to this.
Generation Zero #1 (Valiant) – A new series from Valiant? Don’t mind if I do.
Northguard #1 (Chapterhouse Comics) – An incredibly underrated publisher, Chapterhouse have some fantastic series on the racks, one of which, Captain Canuck is a genuine pleasure to read. I’m excited for this spin off series that I know very little about (which is deliberate on my part), because based on Chapterhouse’s track record, this promises to be a blast.
Anthony
Top Pick: Pretty Deadly TP Vol. 2 (Image Comics) – The first volume of Pretty Deadly was a dark, poetic, bloody journey that featured one of the best creative teams in comics…period. The second arc here is collected for those that missed out on the single issues (or just loved it so much that the trade is worthy of purchasing) and features more striking images from Emma Rios and Jordie Bellaire’s colours with a hypnotic script by Kelly Sue DeConnick that will put you in the good kind of trance that makes Pretty Deadly a difficult title to put down.
Island #10 (Image Comics) – Anthologies tend to be hit and miss but not Island. Emma Rios and Brandon Graham have opened the creative floodgates by curating a slew of material from both artists more well known and those perhaps yet to be discovered by a wider audience. It’s also refreshing in that each and every issue of Island defines variety in covering a wide array of genres and material.
Faith #2 (Valiant) – It’s a very warming feeling to remember that Faith has her own ongoing series. Jody Houser provides such a great voice for Faith, blending her pop culture quips with dramatic moments. Maintaing the back and forth art style of Pere Perez during the present time and Marguerite Sauvage doing Faith’s fantasies from the mini series is an extra nice touch and has been played with wonderfully so far.
Generation Zero #1 (Valiant) – Straight from the pages of Harbinger comes a new team of super powered teens. Minus the Imperium title, there hasn’t been much explored in the Harbinger side of the Valiant universe recently besides a few appearances here and there in other titles so it will be very interesting to see what Fred Van Lente and Francis Portela have prepared. This has a very New Mutants type appearance featuring a younger group of misfits so the parallels between characters will be very intriguing to see in how it will be presented.
Sombra #2 (BOOM! Studios) – The first issue of Sombra was a fairly solid introduction to this story of a DEA agent about to throw herself into the middle of a tense situation with the Mexican Cartel. With the introductory exposition out of the way, hopefully being thrown further into the fire is something on Justin Jordan’s mind. Raul Trevino’s photo realistic backgrounds with the shadowy but bright colours of Juan Useche really paint an uncomfortable tone, especially with how the violence felt so sudden in the first issue.
Shay
Top Pick: Alena (Dark Horse) – This is a great time to get on board with this horror comic treasure. This TP gives you the whole story so that you’e all caught up before it becomes a live action Swedish horror film. There’s mean girls, a best friend who had been dead for a year and lots of murder an blood.
Batgirl #2 (DC Comics) – This issue should be packed with enough kick ass girl power to wipe the taste of the Killing Joke out of your mouth and combined with last weeks Birds of Prey get you back on team Babs.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer , Season 10, #30 (Dark Horse) – All good things must come to an end and Season 10 off BTVS is no exception. Issue #330 ends this killer story arc and will remind us all why we keep reading and still enjoy watching the reruns.
Brett
Top Pick: Generation Zero #1 (Valiant) – I’ve been waiting for this series since it was announced and wondering when we’d next see Generation Zero since last we saw them (during Harbinger Wars?). I’m hoping for a new take on the New Mutants formula, and honestly that’s what I expect. It’s also an area Marvel has dropped the ball on, so glad to see Valiant picking it up and running with it.
Atomic Robo and the Temple of Od #1 (IDW Publishing) – It’s new Atomic Robo, really nuff said when it comes to why you should be checking this series out. I’ve yet to be disappointed by any volume of the series released. It’s always packed with action and humor, and constantly entertains.
The Hellblazer #1 (DC Comics) – I’m intrigued as to what version of John Constantine we’ll be getting. The Rebirth issue gave me some hope, but the real test is with this first issue.
Northguard #1 (Chapterhouse Comics) – Putting out fun, positive, superhero comics with lots of action and humor. I can’t wait to check out this new series which we got a tease of in their Summer Special.
The Revisionist #3 (Aftershock Comics) – Time traveling fun action. It’s entertainment for a genre that lends itself to all sorts of madness and interesting twists.
Last week, Chaptherhouse Comics announced that Prime-Minister Justin Trudeau would be appearing on the cover of Chapterhouse Comics Summer Special for Canada Day. Prime-Minister Trudeau has also written a letter on “behalf of the good Captain [Canuck] that will be featured” in the comic.
Trudeau is also featured on the comic in a portrait style drawing by Captain Canuck creator Richard Comely.
To celebrate the occasion, Captain Canuck will appear live at ‘Canada Day 2016at Queen’s Park’ at 10am, 111 Wellesley Street West in Toronto (south side of Queen’s Park Circle) with bundles of the Summer Special in tow.
The 64-page Chapterhouse Comics Summer Special will be available at comic book stores nation-wide on Canada Day or on their website.
Not afraid to see a good idea and do their own version (and get the credit), Marvel has announced today that Trudeau will grace the cover of Civil War II: Choosing Sides which will be on shelves August 31.
That cover is done by Ramon Perez and features the Prime-Minister in the boxing ring surrounded by members of Canada’s superhero team Alpha Flight. Ironically, in the current Marvel continuity, Alpha Flight’s name (and its members) has been co-opted to be a line of defense from galactic threats.
Trudeau’s father Pierre Trudeau was featured in comics himself, such as Uncanny X-Men in 1979.
The idea to use Justin came from Edmonton-born artist Chip Zdarsky who is writing an Alpha Flight story in the comic. In it, the members of Alpha Flight debate about the use of an Inhuman named Ulysses who can see the future with a high degree of accuracy and can help prevent crime/attacks (a take on Philip K. Dick’s Minority Report). The group sees some ethical issues and seek out Trudeau for advice.
The Marvel cover features the Prime-Minister in a boxing ring which plays off his infamous charity match in which he fought Conservative Senator Patrick Brazeau in 2012.
Justin Trudeau is an admitted geek and been spotted at comic conventions.
