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Preview – The Green Hornet: Year One Vol. 2: The Biggest Of All Game Trade Paperback

Posted on December 14, 2011 by Brett

THE GREEN HORNET: YEAR ONE VOL. 2: THE BIGGEST OF ALL GAME TRADE PAPERBACK

160 pages FC • $19.99 • Teen + • (C:0-1-2)
Written by MATT WAGNER
Art by AARON CAMPBELL
Cover by MATT WAGNER

He Hunts The Biggest Of All Game!

CHICAGO, 1938—a city caught in a vice of corruption and greed, ruled from behind the scenes by “Skid” Caruso, a brutal mob boss whose influence runs all the way to City Hall. But an unexpected threat has arisen to challenge the criminal establishment, a masked rogue known only as…THE GREEN HORNET. With his mysterious comrade at his side, this daring knave strikes again and again, disrupting Caruso’s illicit operations at every turn—seemingly seeking to take over the city’s rackets for himself. In reality, the Green Hornet is the alter-ego of newspaper scion Britt Reid who, with his faithful companion Kato, delivers the sting of justice from outside the law. In this continuation of Eisner Award-winning writer Matt Wagner’s origin of this classic character, for the first time ever, the full scope of this timeless hero’s initial adventures are revealed—the source of his weapons, his hideout and his fantastic car, the Black Beauty. Learn how the Green Hornet brings his clandestine quest for justice to the crime-ridden Chicago streets, a mission that may cost him his life! Ride with the Green Hornet and Kato as they hunt…THE BIGGEST OF ALL GAME!

COLLECTION FEATURES:
• Issues seven through twelve of the critically acclaimed series by Matt Wagner (Mage, Grendel), Aaron Campbell (Sherlock Holmes) and Carlos Lopez (Buck Rogers)
• All of the series covers by Matt Wagner and Francesco Francavilla (Man Without Fear)
• Sketches and designs by Aaron Campbell and John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men)

“Year One is excellent work from top to bottom, from story to art, from satchel to paige!” – Major Spoilers

“Wagner plays to his strength with period pieces, and this book is a winner.” – Blog Critics

“Green Hornet: Year One is a terrific comic series and does justice above and beyond to one of the great classic radio heroes of all time. Any pulp fan worth his fedora would be wise to pick it up.” – Pulp Fiction Reviews

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 11/16/11

Posted on November 20, 2011 by Brett

A thick stack of books this week. We’re coming up on the end of the year, what’s going to make our best of list? There’s only a few weeks left for comics to qualify. Find out if any of this week’s comics stand a chance below.

The Avengers #19 – This continues the transition as we find out who is going to be a member of the new Avengers team. Unfortunately, while there’s a lot of discussion of who might be on, we’re not given tons of reason of the why. The team though seems interesting. The other focus is Osborn’s escape. There’s a twist at the end as well that I didn’t expect, that’ was pretty damn interesting. Overall a ho-hum issue that looks to set up a decent upcoming story arc.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Avengers Academy #22 – With the academy on the West coast close to Utopia it was only a matter time before Cyclops, Magneto and others paid a visit. That’s happened sooner than later with a rather silly fight breaking out. The issue could have had some great emotional impact with Magneto’s seeing Quicksilver, but a needless fight just dilutes the situation and makes it rather eye rolling.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Batman #3 – We’re dragged further into what exactly the Talon is and what it has to do with Bruce’s relatives. It feels like a bit of a stretch as far as the family connection, but I like the pacing and some of the ways the story is laid out. The art is fantastic as well. Out of all of the lines DC has, the Bat one is definitely the strongest and this series is a good example of that.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

The Bionic Man #4 – I’m not sure if the “we can rebuild” it refers to the actual making of the Bionic Man or Kevin Smith and Phil Hester’s ability to breath new life into this franchise. The build up is fantastic and there’s tons of winks and nods throughout the comic, including why the nu-nu-nu happened anytime Steve Austin does something. There’s a lot of explanation of the process which makes it seem that much more plausible and adds a bit of realism (especially that the writers have thought it through). The series has been a slow start and it’s taken four issues to get to this point, but it’s well worth.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Captain America #4 – Cap is still stuck in the dream world as we get to see some of the bigger plan as well as the motivation. The issue is interesting, but there’s too much “Inception” in it without really using that movie’s landscape bending abilities. The story is decent, but it actually doesn’t go far enough to show us the entertainment that a world without rules could be.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Captain Atom #3 – Some amazing philosophical questions are thrown out there as far as Captain Atom’s powers and his ability to “play god.” What should he do? What’s the difference between his actions and miracles? That’s all thrown out there. Also, he meets up with the Flash in Libya dealing with that situation. DC promised heroes dealing with real world situations and it looks like they’re doing just that. An amazing issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Deadman #3 – Really this is Quantum Leap in comic book form, but there’s certain parts of this issue that are heart wrenching. The comic has an emotional impact and it’ll be interesting to see this story arc through completion. So far so good in what’s been one of the standout series of the DC relaunch.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5

Fear Itself #7.3 – During Fear Itself, what happened in Paris opened up a storyline that could have been explored for years. Unfortunately, in this one issue, that pretty big act has been undone. That’s the bad part. The good part is that Tony decides to see the Grey Gargoyle and discuss what it is to be a God and what happened. That part is an interesting conversation. Overall, hopefully we see the PTSD impact I’d expect from what Tony has gone through and here’s to some decent stories in the future even if the horrific act committed is undone with a flick of the wrist.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Fear Itself: The Fearless #3 – Generally not feeling this twelve issue limited series that follows the chase for the hammers left on Earth. The story is meh and there’s some poor attempts to tie in the past and the present. The follow up mini-series is of the same quality as the event that proceeded it.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Generation Hope #13 – The series has only glimpsed what it could be in the short year it’s been around. I haven’t praised the series too much and with this first issue of it’s new creative team it also shows what could be. The art is improved in spots, but is still inconsistent. The story is also inconsistent. I’m sticking with the series in hopes it sees improvement, but so far I’m weary.

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

Green Hornet #19 – This is the first issue I haven’t liked a whole lot. We learn the origin of the Red Hand and the way he’s defeated is meh. Something is off with this issue, both in story and the art.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Green Lantern Corps. #3 – It’s a last stand as the team dispatched to fight a mysterious enemy hold out for the cavalry to arrive. The story is interesting, but it’s a small part of a larger story. The larger story is really a draw, this one issue doesn’t stand on it’s own.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Justice League #3 – Darkseid is looming as the team continues to gather. There’s an interesting dynamic going on and I can’t say I’m a fan of all of the depictions of the characters, but overall the series is pretty damn solid and gives the feel of that big story you’d want and expect.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

New Mutants #34 – The team begins to settle down and see what a normal life is like, but at the same time they’re on the lookout for Blink who is hopping around where strange weather phenomena are occurring. The issue is interesting and series has potential, but I remain skeptical to see if it ever finds it’s own voice.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Nightwing #3 – Hmm, it’s interesting to see them try to flesh out Dick’s life in the circus, and it’s interesting to see where the series goes, but the idea of a killer going after Dick, for something, just doesn’t seem to jarring to really get me excited. These first three issues have been one big set up. We’ll see what’s actually used going forward after this arc wraps up.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7

The Punisher #5 – An interesting issue that’s supposed to make you think of what a soldier doing their duty is. It could stand on it’s own, but is a follow up to the previous issue. The story takes place 100 days since his ass whooping and the Punisher is on the mend healing his wounds. Not the best of the series, but not too bad either.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Supergirl #3 – Kara is still getting acclimated to her new world as Superman attempts to give her the rundown. We also get to find out who the bad guy is. It all really doesn’t have much interest in me. What does seem interesting is Supergirl’s learning of her new world and coming to grips with her new reality and the fantastic art.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Thunderbolts #165 – Generally an enjoyable comic, but there’s something missing about it. I generally don’t like time travel stories, and this is really just that. Overall, not bad, but not great.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

Ultimate Comics X-Men #3 – Stryker continues his plan as the X-Men are on the run and the team begins to form up a bit. It’s all very interesting, enough to make me want to go back and see everything I’ve missed. Overall, this has the danger and excitement that’s been missing from the 616 X-Men for some time.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Venom #9 – The emotional trauma has been building up for some time and a villain attempts to take advantage of the chaos post Spider-Island. During the crime spree he kills a few pedestrians which sends Venom over the edge. The series has a nice feel of a man living on the edge which I hope it plays up more as it gets back to standing on it’s own.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

The Walking Dead #91 – It feels like the usual calm before the storm. The group is dealing with winter and dwindling supplies as Carl learns to live with his injury. Tensions are mounting and I’m sure it’ll explode into something big knowing Kirkman.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Wonder Woman #3 – We get the truth about Wonder Woman and her lineage as some Amazon’s aren’t too happy with what’s occurred. The first three issues have been interesting, setting up the new status quo. The art is fantastic and overall this series is one of the better DC is putting out there.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

X-Factor #227 – Lots of fighting, kind of silly, but that was an interesting ending….

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

X-Men #21 – A small nation is gathering Sentinel technology to defend itself from anything. That’s interesting but would be even better if compared with the right of Utopia to protect itself.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

X-23 #17 – Laura gets a call from the Future Foundation, to babysit. The story is cute and fun, but it’s the art that stands out, back to the anime inspired look we saw a few arcs ago.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 11/2/11

Posted on November 6, 2011 by Brett

The pile of new comics has started to dwindle as I’m figuring out the comics from DC’s relaunch I’m keeping and what’s just not making the cut. Will things get cut this week? Find out below!

American Vampire #20 – The lead up to the origin of Skinner continues as we learn more about how his maker became a vampire and there’s hints why the “American vampire” is different than it’s European cousins, though that’s not completely laid out. The story is entertaining and it’s fun to see a western mashed up with a good ole horror tale. Snyder continues to put out a solid product here.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8

Animal Man #3 – Vertigo is in full effect in the DCU. This comic is so out there and so crazy and at the same time so entertaining. Animal Man and his daughter head into The Red and we learn a bit about the origin of Animal Man. Meanwhile the rest of their family are attacked too. The series is so crazy and “out horrors” the rest of DC dark.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Avengers Academy #21 – I haven’t been the biggest fan of the series, much preferring it’s incarnation as the “Initiative,” but this issue kicks off it’s new direction with a lot of new characters and one hell of an ending. I’m still a bit skeptical due to the past, but this first issue has piqued my interest.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Batman: Detective Comics #3 – So, we finally get to find out who the Dollmaker is, but something about this issue just doesn’t quite seem right. It might be because it’s predictable. It might be that the whole schtick for this bad guy doesn’t quite make sense. Out of the three main Bat-titles, this is the weakest of the bunch.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Batwing #3 – Huh. The politics is very subtle so far, but this issue delves a little into that with The Kingdom, but mostly the issue is Batwing getting his ass kicked and we get to see a bit of his past that adds a whole lot of depth about him. The series is interesting and surprisingly good. The art is solid and stands out. Overall, it’s a welcome addition to the Bat-family and DC comics.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Dark Shadows #1 – All I know of Dark Shadows is that it’s a former television show involving a vampire that has a cult following and is highly regarded. So, I went into the first issue as a blank slate and I came out pretty impressed. The issue focuses on the individuals giving enough for new readers to figure out who everyone is and what their deal is and I’m sure fans will have a lot more to go on. The story is interesting and I can’t quite tell if this is a horror soap opera or a straight up horror story. There’s enough to make me come back for a second issue.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Fear Itself #7.1: Captain America – The first of three epilogue’s for Fear Itself reveals the fate of Bucky who’ll get his own series starting in January (I’d say that’s a spoiler, but it’s been all over). It’s funny that this comic is so much better than the event in spun out of, but it really feels like a lead up and pitch for a new series as opposed to closure to Marvel’s sub-par event.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Fear Itself: The Fearless #2 – The series is focused on Valkyrie’s and Crossbone’s attempts to regain the hammers. Valkyrie’s story is a bit of a stretch as it attempts to flesh out her background and Crossbone’s seems to avoid the change that happened to him in Thunderbolts. The first issue was entertaining, but this second one quickly has fallen into issues that Fear Itself had.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Huntress #1 – I’ve had a lot of people recommend this comic that came out a few weeks ago, so I decided to give it a shot. Huntress heads to Naples and takes on a smuggler of women and guns. The series is pretty solid, but I don’t quite get why it doesn’t take place in the new DCU. The Huntress is a solid, strong, female lead which is great to see. She kicks a lot of ass and the bad guy is down to Earth in that, he doesn’t have super powers sort of way. The series could have a hell of a message if the writer wanted, but as it stands it’s an entertaining read.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Moon Knight #7 – Moon Knight deals with the fact that he was snitched on and the Avengers were called. He also hatches a plan to find out who the bad guy behind it all is. Those around him also begin to deal with the fact the man is clearly nuts. The series is fantastic with amazing art, and some great action. The interaction between everyone is top notch as well. This is one of the best comics Marvel is putting out right now.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

New Mutants #33 – The split is done and the team must decide who they’re sticking with and what their role in the “X” world will be. The art I think is still off and there’s some parts of the story I liked, but overall something is still off about the series. It seems that they’ll be playing a more integrated role with human society in Cyclop’s world and their first mission seems interesting, but there’s a lot of talk in this issue that doesn’t shed a lot of depth on the characters. It is a decent hopping on point for new readers.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Red Lantern #3 – Writer Peter Milligan is attempting to give depth to characters who have been one note up until now. His direction has them being the Ghost Riders of rage and so far it’s been ok. But, the characters have been mindless beasts for the most part driven by rage. Next up to get the fleshed out treatment is Bleez whose mind is cleared and becomes the second in command. But, with that promotion there’s also hints there’s more to it. Not the best issue, but Milligan is doing what he can with what he’s been given.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Stormwatch #3 – This is supposed to be one of the pillars of the new DCU but the comic has been a bit hard to sift through and figure out everything that’s going on. We’ve been thrown into the action without much of an explanation and while it’s all quirky and somewhat entertaining, I can’t yet declare it an “A” list series. I’m giving it the first arc, then I’ll make my decision.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Swamp Thing #3 – We’re starting to get a clearer picture as to what the big baddie Swamp Thing will face. I also get a sense that this same bad guy is also who Animal Man will deal with. It’s interesting that these two series are relying on colors as much as Green Lantern mythos does. The horror feel is still present and the two books are definitely Vertigo come to DC. Snyder is always slow to start with his series, that’s his style, but when it’s still so good, who cares.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Men #1 – The good is they’ve finally thrown it out there and equated mutant powers as a deterrent and Utopia as a nation with one. They’ve been hinting at it for quite a while, but never just laid it out there. It’s some interesting logic thrown around and hopefully we finally get to see what was promised, the focus on a true mutant nation and what that really means as well as what it takes to pull that off. The action itself revolves around the Dreaming Celestial and Mr. Sinister, that’s all off. If anything, this first issue shows a lot of potential, but doesn’t quite excite.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Villains for Hire #0.1 – We’ve seen the heroes, but this point one issue sets up the villains out there looking to be hired to pull off jobs. The first issue is interesting, but doesn’t quite set up the series to come enough. Instead it focuses a lot more on the heroes stopping the villains, not what brought them together. Together the two series should be fun and here’s hoping it has the exploitation movie feel like it’s sister series. But, this “first issue” doesn’t quite excite me enough.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

X-Men #20 – Hmmm. The team is interesting and first issue of it’s direction much like Uncanny has potential. I don’t dig the overused good guys versus good guys over a misunderstanding before they team up schtick. But, the story continues the whole proliferation of Sentinels story, so that’s cool. But, overall, meh.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

X-23 #16 – Um, yeah. Can’t say I dig the Captain Universe thing.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 9/21/11

Posted on September 25, 2011 by Brett

It’s the third week of DC’s reboot which I reviewed on Friday. There’s also some great indie books and Marvel’s Fear Itself continues. What’s worth it? Find out below.

A Game of Thrones #1 – The debut of the comic series based on George R.R. Martin’s popular books reads like an adaptation of the television series that spun from the books. But sanitize the television show a bit. It’s only the first issue, so it’s hard to tell if that’s just this particular issue, or overall. I watched the tv series and enjoyed it, but had trouble following the vast cast and propensity to rattle off names, that happens here too. The comic is decent though, and might help me understand exactly what I watched.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Avengers #17 – The Avengers take on Sin/Red Skull just after Avenger’s Tower fell. This really is just one small part of the bigger picture and while it adds a little to Fear Itself, it’s a pretty flimsy issue by itself. It looks like we get to move on from Marvel’s epic event disaster as the team gets shaken up once again.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.25

Avengers: The Children’s Crusade #7 – So we get a big more of the reasoning as to why Wanda went nuts, killed a bunch of Avengers and almost the entire Mutant race. The reason given comes off as a bit of a cop-out and retcon, but it’s enough to move the story forward. The big point here is the fall out between the X-Men and Avengers and I’m sure what will be the big event for 2012. My problem with the series is it doesn’t jive with some other series, like Wonder Man who recently attacked the Avengers and you have Doom helping the FF. Delays in the series I’m sure haven’t helped in that department.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

The Bionic Man #2 – The story picks up a bit as we learn more about the bad guys Steve Austin will be up again and the fallout from his crash starts. It’s a slow start overall, but the series is top notch so far and it looks like Kevin Smith will do for the Bionic Man what he did for the Green Hornet, bring him into modern times.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Captain America #3 – The plan is a bit convoluted, but really fun. Cap fights an 18 foot robot version of himself while Sharon Carter takes on Baron Zemo, which seems really out of place. Not quite as good as the first two issues, but still a lot of fun with amazing art.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8

Daredevil #4 – The vast majority of this fourth issue focuses on Murdock and his new law practice. It’s a nice and slow pace that show off the human side of the character and gives us a good idea of where he stands with that. At the end of the issue we get the beginning of the next arc which seems like it could be interesting. Mark Waid as usual has put together a comic that breathes new life into Daredevil and puts his series dead center as one of Marvel’s top comic books like it should be.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

DMZ #69 – The post war tour of New York continues as we get to see the ramifications of the war and how some of the people are dealing with the peace. It’s also beginning to sink in for Matty as to what he’s really done and the weight of what he’s experienced starts to rest on his shoulders. It’s a shame the series is ending but Woods is putting a fantastic end-cap on it all.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Fables #109 – The story in Oz continues and I have no idea where that’s going, but more importantly who will be the next King of the North Winds? The cubs are put through trials to figure out which should take over the mantel as we learn about a prediction concerning their futures. It’s interesting to see where the series goes post Mr. Dark and there’s so much right now, it’s impressive it’s all being kept together so smoothly.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Fear Itself: Fearsome Four #4 – Wow, just so bad, and why did I keep up with it? Another pointless offshoot of Fear Itself that added nothing to the greater storyline. Man-Thing was alson in Thunderbolts where he was handled much better. This, just was a money grab.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6.25

Fear Itself: The Home Front #6 – A mix of serious and silly, only the story featuring Speedball will likely have long term impact. It’s an ok issue, but forgettable and not really worth it in the end.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Fear Itself: Youth in Revolt #5 – Out of all of the limited series and tie-ins, this one looks like it’ll be the most important and have the longest impact. Vegas is still shaking as the heroes rush to save survivors.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Generation Hope #11 – A Sentinel is bearing down on Utopia in an issue that doesn’t make much sense unless you’re also reading Schism. There’s some great internal conflict here and arguments that’s just leading up to what’s coming next. The series is finally getting it’s own legs and finding it’s voice, and here’s hoping that post Schism it continues with that.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Green Hornet #18 – We get the full scoop on Redhand and his dislike of the Katos. It’s a simple story but still very entertaining. The plot overall for this arc is simple, but it introduces a good villain for them all and the action is entertaining. Some of the art is a little off in the proportions and contortions, but it’s not too distracting.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Heroes for Hire #12 – The series took a nasty detour due to Fear Itself, but it’s back to form as we dive right back into the Hook plotline. Even taking a break, the series goes right back into form with pure entertainment that acts like a 70s C-grade movie. Fun, entertaining, a great read.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Invincible Iron Man #508 – Stark continues his issues in Asgard as the battle rages in France. The art is great as expected, but this isn’t a story, it’s on part of a longer arc. On it’s own, it’s not much, but is fun as part of the whole.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5

Marvel Universe vs. Wolverine #4 – There’s a few scenes in here that are awesome and that ending is fantastic. As far as final issues, this one actually ends better than the series as a whole was. The fourth issue packs a hell of a punch and is filled with awesome moments. Beyond solid.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2 – We learn more about the Turtle’s origins as Raphael meets Casey Jones. The series has a nice mix between the dark gritty feel of the original series and some of the more modern takes on the property. It’s perfect for old and new fans alike.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Thunderbolts #163.1 – This point one issue does exactly what it should do, give you a good history of the series and where they’re at right now. In this case we see enough to get an idea as to why the Thunderbolts was founded and some of what they went through. The team in the modern time also figures out where the fugitive team is as well. I’m not the biggest fan of time travel stories but two teams, one of which is fugitive sounds very interesting to me.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Ultimate Comics Hawkeye #2 – The situation in Thailand is deteriorating and Hawkeye is doing his best to get all of the information. There’s a new group trying to run things and he needs backup to take care of them and to that I say, “Sheeet, you’re sending the Hulk? That’s all you needed to say.” I’m still pretty new to the Ultimate universe, but so far, I’m digging it.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Ultimate Comics X-Men #1 – The fourth and final series of Marvel’s relaunch of the Ultimates line focuses on the X-Men whose world comes unraveled in this one issue. We learn the truth about Mutants and see a world that’s gone beyond just hating them. If you read the first few pages and immediately don’t get sucked in, there’s something wrong with you. A hell of a start.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Men #543 – Out of all of those taking part in Fear Itself, the X universe took the best advantage by now having Colossus taking over as Juggernaut, but also seeing how far Cyclops has come. The end of this issue is fantastic, because we get a great sense that this is a man who will do everything he needs to, to protect his people, but is fiercely loyal at the same time. His evolution has really driven where the X line is going and you better believe I’m looking forward to where it’s heading.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Factor #225 – A nice quiet moment starts the issue as we get some reflection on how everyone is reacting to recent events, but then as seems to be the recent norm, something from their past comes back and drags them into a new mystery. The character interaction is great and there’s so much hinted at here, I’m only expecting great things as we go forward. X-Factor is one X title more people should be paying attention to.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

X-Men #18 – The latest arc is interesting and the bad guys are a nice change of pace, but there’s something about it that’s just not really clicking with me. The art is good, but there’s some off panels. Overall, meh.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

X-Men: Schism #4 – Well this is it. It’s been brewing for a long time now, but Cyclops and Wolverine have finally come to blows over their philosophy. It’s a logical progression for the characters, Cyclops being the soldier turned general who had his childhood taken from him and Wolverine who has always acted as the mentor to at least one younger character. This is it, and it’s fantastic, welcome back to the quality that’s been missing for a while.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Pick of the Week – DMZ #69

Posted on September 20, 2011 by Brett

Brian Wood‘s brilliant series is coming to an end and it’s never been better. The series is a fantastic reflection of the last decade filled with uncertainty and war. There hasn’t been a better allegory for the world we live in and it also asked questions that so few journalists were willing to ask and so few of us were willing to discuss. This is some of the best political commentary out there and when the series comes to an end, there’ll be a large gap out there. DMZ #69 is the easy pick of the week.

DMZ #69 – See above.
Batman #1 – I’ve gushed over Scott Snyder’s writing and add in Greg Capullo’s art you’ve got a must buy.
X-Men: Schism #4 – The X-Men are getting back to form and this series shakes up what’s been a pretty bland line of late.
Daredevil #4 – Mark Waid has been knocking it out of the park with this series that brings Daredevil back to his roots with some fantastic pulp fun.
Green Hornet #18 – Kevin Smith made me give a crap about the character and Phil Hester took over the reigns to get me excited. The series hits the notes it should and like Daredevil is pure pulp fun.

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 7/27/11 Part 2

Posted on August 20, 2011 by Brett

I’m still a bit behind in my reviews. Here’s the second part of reviews from releases weeks ago. Hopefully I’ll be caught up this week.

Green Hornet #17 – Phil Hester continues to move this action packed comic forward. It’s some great pulp action that shows how bad the movie was. Too bad quality like this couldn’t represent the Hornet on the big screen. Tons of fun and a definite read for fans of Batman or pulp hero comics.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Incorruptible #20 – This series along with it’s sister title is about taking the villain and hero dynamic and archetypes and breaking them down. What’s interesting with this issue is that so common villain soliloquy is used and of course things go wrong for the bad guy. For a series that makes us rethink about the typical super hero comic, in this issue it falls upon such a common writing tool.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Kirby Genesis #2 – This series is for Kirby die-hards. The ideas are very much him and the designs mimic his style quite well, but overall, I give it a big meh. It’s interesting but a bit too much too quickly I think.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

The Mighty Thor #4 – Thor vs. Silver Surfer, Odin vs. Galactus, it’s big battles here. But, when does this take place? Pre-Fear Itself it doesn’t make sense, but post may not have a Thor around. So confusing…. but still entertaining.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

New Mutants #28 – To me, this is the quality I expect from the series. Faced with doubt and the after affects of everything they’ve been through an outside shrink is brought in to help them deal. It’s a solid story, worth the read. Here’s hoping the quality keeps up.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 8

Secret Avengers #15 – An issue that gets very meta discussing “death” in comic books. Even though it has Fear Itself on the cover, it’s more a statement about the recent deaths of comic book characters and the reaction by the public. A very interesting read if you take it that way.

Story: 8.75 Art: 7 Overall: 8.5

Secret Warriors #28 – Not a thing I would change, a perfect ending to the series. There’s so much hope, so much advice, and so much left out there. It’s a shame it couldn’t continue. But a big thanks goes out to the team that brought twenty eight pages of awesome. Bravo.

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.75

Uncanny X-Force #12 – Wow, that was certainly interesting. A hell of an issue that really dives deep into the characters and focuses on them instead of the action, and then wham, one hell of an ending. So, so good. The art surrounding Wolverine was a bit off and inconsistent, but otherwise, a solid issue.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Venom #5 – After all of the action, all of the swinging around, this issue quiets it down and instead focuses on Flash the man. It’s interesting that the two books in this batch by Rick Remender focused not on the action and instead focused on characters. It’s a solid book about a man who’s haunted by the past which is guiding his present.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Factor #222 – The issue with Rhane’s unborn child continues. I can’t say I’m too crazy about the plot, but it has it’s moments and a few times the art is really good. There’s a style that sneaks through that’s solid, but overall the art is ok.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7

X-Men #15 – Overall a decent story arc that introduces a pretty cool villain. It seems a bit odd to have such a solid story before a big event, and it’s a bit choppy with Schism occurring now. But as a whole, I’ll give it high marks.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Men: Legacy #252 – Legion seeks out Styx with an ending I’m not quite sure I understand, but there’s clearly more going on involving Rogue, so we’ll see where this series goes next.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

X-Men: Schism #2 – The major shake up to the “X” universe continues as the world reacts to terrorist acts and the X-Men must assemble to take on antiquated Sentinels. Meanwhile the Hellfire Club continues their movies. This is the event us X-Men fans have been waiting for.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Pick of the Week – Criminal: Last of the Innocent #2

Posted on July 26, 2011 by Brett

I’ve always waited for trade paperbacks to read Criminal, but Criminal: Last of the Innocent got such amazing praise when it first came out I had to see what all of the chatter was about, and it was well worth it. Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips consistently bring it in this series with some of the best comic book noir on the market. Absolutely fantastic stuff and I’m sure the second issue will be no exception.

Criminal: Last of the Innocent #2 – See above.
Fly #2 – I’ve actually read the first three issues of the series (review soon) and this tale about a drug that gives you abilities is amazing.
X-Men: Schism #2 – The first issue blew me away and at this point everything is on the table. I expect people to die and lots of fighting to go along with some amazing art. The X-Men are back!
Green Hornet #17 – Phil Hester has been killing it when it comes to this series, beyond solid.
Fables #107 – With a new spin-off announced, we’re left wonder how we’ll get there and what comes after the battle with Mr. Dark?

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/15/11 Part 2

Posted on June 21, 2011 by Brett

This is the second part of the weekly comic book reviews. Some decent comics in this bunch as well as some duds.

Graveyard of Empires #1 – What starts off as one hell of a war comic turns into something totally different by the end and now I have no idea what to expect with the second issue. All I can say is wow. This is a comic that just knocks you on your ass in so many ways.

Story: 10 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.75

Green Hornet #16 – Two vigilantes are duped in taking on the Hornet in this ok issue. Something was off, in what usually is a fantastic series. The art, was especially not quite up to par as usual. Overall, probably the weakest of the series so far.

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

Invincible Iron Man #505 – I’ve generally been down on the Fear Itself event, but this tie-in is actually pretty good. The highlight really is Tony’s reflection on what’s going on in Paris and what it all means. Through all of the action, there’s a lot of character development going on.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Kirby: Genesis #1 – Uh, a very interesting way to introduce everyone that probably would play better on the movie or television screen, but is a bit choppy for a comic book. A lot of set up, with very little substance.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Mega Man #2 – The series seems to be progressing quickly as Mega Man has to deal with three different robots and has some reservations about it. The comic reminds me of the fantastic cartoon series that used to be on. Hopefully, it doesn’t progress too quickly.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Power Girl #25 – The second part of the “Muslim Metahuman” story arc that’s not quite as good as the first part. There’s a lot of fighting, and a neat and tidy ending. Generally as a two part story it’s solid, but on it’s own, this issue is pretty lackluster.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Uncanny X-Men #538 – Wow, did I dislike this Breakworld storyline. It seemed rushed and so many other things, but the art’s decent.

Story: 6.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7

X-Factor #221 – What the hell is going on!? As a single issue, it’s meh, but I’m sure as part of the greater story arc it’d make much more sense.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

X-Men #13 – It’s the third part of the “First to Last” storyline and there’s a lot of retconning going on as well as somethings I didn’t see coming. Overall, the story is growing on me and I’m looking forward to see where it goes.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

X-Men: Prelude to Schism #3 – A threat bears down on Utopia and Cyclops makes his decision as to whether to stay and fight or run. The series has gotten better as it’s gone along, but I’m a bit perplexed as to how it’s leading to what it’s leading to and have no idea who or what the threat is.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Pick of the Week – Flashpoint tie-ins

Posted on June 14, 2011 by Brett

Again this week, I’d have to say, your best bet as far as quality is to pick up this week’s batch of Flashpoint tie-ins. This week includes Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #1, Flashpoint: Grodd of War #1, Flashpoint: Legion of Doom #1, Flashpoint: Wonder Woman and The Furies #1. There’s multiple books, but there’s few clunkers so far and those that were, were still entertaining.

Flashpoint tie-ins – see above.
G.I. Joe: Snake Eyes #2 – Tied into the “Search for Cobra Commander” storyline, the search for a new leader of a terrorist organization seems like a timely plot for today’s world.
Green Hornet #16 – Consistently solid and entertaining, this is one of the best action hero stories you’re probably not reading.
Alpha Flight #1 – The prelude comic had a lot of promise, hopefully the series delivers.
Kirby: Genesis #1 – Like above, a lot of promise, and here’s where we find out if it delivers.

Around the Tubes

Posted on April 5, 2011 by Brett

WonderCon is over and news continues to trickle out. I’ll keep posting links as they keep coming. Also, this week sees a hell of a lot of new comics and some great releases. Wednesday can’t get here soon enough.

Around the Blogs:

The Los Angeles Times: Hero Complex – Moebius on his art, fading eyesight and legend: ‘I am like a unicorn’ – Great interview with a living legend.

Comic Book Movie – Is a Shared Universe a Good Thing on Film? – I guess we’ll find out the answer over the next year.

Cnet – iPad graphic novel teaches kids self-esteem – Great to see comics and technology used this way.

ICv2 – Family Guy Comics – Can. Not. Wait.

ICv2 – Marvel Anime Voices – We get a tease as who we can expect for Marvel’s upcoming anime series.

WonderCon Coverage:

IGN – WC 11: Immortals Graphic Novel

The Beat – WonderCon 11: traveling day

Bleeding Cool – Green Hornet Cosplayer At Wondercon Was Peter David All Along

The Beat – WonderCon 11: DC announces Retro-Active

The Beat – WonderCon 11: NEW Thundercats trailer debuts