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Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 20/2/2016

Posted on February 21, 2016 by Alex K Cossa

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

Kennel Block Blues #1 (Boom!) Was a pretty odd comic about an anthromorphic dog living in a state of half hallucinated reality as he enters prison. It’s good, and it is worth looking into, but likely more a “wait for the trade” kind of book. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

The Last Contract #2 (Boom!) A comic about a retired hitman getting back into the game long after his retirement, The Last Contract has been a fantastic ride so far, with the eighty-plus year old killer taking no shit from anybody. Well aware of his physical limits, he’s a refreshing change from protagonists that can take on the world with their hands behind their back. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Gutter Magic #2 (IDW) This has got to be one of the most entertaining comics I’ve read in a long time. The art is fantastically detailed without being overly cluttered, and the characters are inhabiting a rich and vibrant world that feels fully formed before you turn the page. Highly, highly recommended. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Deluge #2 Is an indie comic set during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. After reading the first issue, I’d actually thought it was just a one shot comic until I saw this. I actually found that the second issue was more enjoyable than the first, and I liked the first issue’s story about an undercover FBI agent infiltrating the New Orleans underworld amidst a layer of corruption from the local police. It’s a solid book that deserves a wider audience than it’ll end up getting. Overall: 8.75 Recommendation: Buy

Will Eisner’s The Spirit #8 (Dynamite) I have nothing to say here that hasn’t already been said. A solid comic book that’s well written, well drawn, and above all it’s very, very fun. Overall: 8.75 Recommendation: Buy

Huck #4 (Image) I just… wow. Just wow. Overall: 9.75 Recommendation: Buy it now, or buy the trade. You need to own this.

Black Hood #9 (Dark Circle) Is a solid comic. It’s not my favourite comic from this publisher (that honour belongs to The Fox), but it’s a very good gritty vigilante thriller with a hero who is very much just a man. A decent series that’s worth checking out. Overall: 7.75 Recommendation: Read

Elana

Catwoman #49 (DC)* When the Messina/Valentine creative team ended their landmark run of Catwoman as a crime boss I thought Catwoman would go down hill. And while the comic did return to its roots with a far more traditional Catwoman story it’s still a really good comic! It’s a smart, interesting story suspensefully told. The lines are almost delicate and the splash pages pack in far more visual information that you think at first glance. Selina fighting Croc in front of a Nosferatu billboard? That’s cool! And the intrigue is high. I keep reading because it’s quality comics. So should you. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

Ryan C

American Monster #2 (Aftershock) *: Brian Azzarello and Juan Doe’s journey into the dark underbelly of America’s sleaziest small town continues with some revelations of both the major and minor variety that will serve to suck readers into the web they’re spinning ever deeper. Two issues in, I remain convinced that this has the potential to be Azzarello’s best series since “100 Bullets,” and Doe’s art, while first striking me as being a bit too “cartoonish” for the dark subject matter, is quickly starting to grow on me. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Lucifer #3 (Vertigo) *: The devil went to The Dreaming, and all I got was this lousy t-shirt. Oh, and a damn good story — Gaiman-esque myth-spinning anchors one of Holly Black’s two main plot threads while the other, involving a trapped demon on Earth scheming to be set free, is pure Delano-era “Hellblazer.” Combine the two with Lee Garbett’s fun-yet-appropriately-grim artwork and a guest appearance by Matthew the Raven (who just turned up in his human form in the latest issue of “Swamp Thing”) and you’ve got yourself a heck — sorry, hell — of a book here. They say everything old is new again, and after three issues this series is proving that to be absolutely true. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

The Tithe #8 (Image/Top Cow) **: Not a bad extra-length issue from writer Matt Hawkins and artists Rashan Ekedal and Phillip Sevy, but not a great one, either. The problem with the whole “Islamophobia” story arc isn’t that it was poorly done, just that it only had one big revelation in store and it gave that away in the opening installment. After that, we knew exactly where events were headed, and they simply proceeded to go there. It apparently pissed off a handful of right-wing dumbfucks online, though, so points to the creators for at least raising the blood pressure of all the right people. Overall: 6. Recommendation: Read.

The Shield #2 (Dark Circle) : Normally I’d say this isn’t a half-bad little issue because, well, it isn’t, but given that the gap between numbers one and two was something like five or six months in length, it should have — perhaps even needed to — return with a big splash, and it didn’t. I’m sure Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig’s script was “in the can” some time ago, but some tinkering around the edges to re-engage readers into the storyline more fully would have been welcome, and the art-by-committee approach with Drew Johnson and Ray Snyder doing the first half of the book and Al Barrionuevo taking over the second half is jarring and messy. Still, we’ve got a Steve Rude painted cover as one of the variants this time out, so how petty am I for bitching about anything? Dark Circle’s been plagued with delays on pretty much all of their titles barring “The Black Hood,” though, so Archie really needs to get their shit together with this line or it will die the same quick death that these characters always seem to bring upon themselves in one decade after another. Overall: 6. Recommendation: Read

Shean

Bill and Ted Go To Hell#1 (Boom!): we catch up with the Wild Stallyns shortly after their adventures in the Triumphant Return.Colonel Oats and gang of baddies are enroute to Hell , kidnapping Bill And Ted’s buddy, the Grim Reaper, with them. The boys have to call on the help of Rufus and company to rescue him. By issue’s end , there is a bigger plan in play, than either of them expected. Overall:9.3 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 (**).

Around the Tubes

Posted on January 19, 2016 by Graphic Policy Team

It’s new comic book day tomorrow! What’s everyone looking forward to? We’ll have our picks up in a few hours. Until then, here’s some comic book news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

Around the Tubes

The Beat – The Black Comic Book Festival drew 5000 people – Heard some great things about this.

GamePolitics – Supreme Court will hear Microsoft’s appeal over Xbox 360 disc-scratching lawsuit – Interesting.

Kotaku – When Politicians Campaign with Anime – This is awesome.

The Outhousers – Deadpool Movie Banned in China – Shocker?

Geeks Out – The Avengers: Infinity War We Deserve – What do you want to see?

Around the Tubes Reviews

Bam Smack Pow – Faith #1

CBR – Huck #3

CBR – Injection #6

Batman News – Red Hood/Arsenal #8

CBR – The Walking Dead #150

Around the Tubes

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 17/01/2016

Posted on January 17, 2016 by Alex K Cossa

Alex

Batman: Europa #1 (DC Comics)* – Yeah, I’m three months behind here, but after dropping the lackluster Detective Comics during the last crossover, I needed some Batman this week. I was not disappointed here. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2 (DC/IDW)* – There is nothing wrong with this second chapter. Nothing. It’s exactly the fun comic I wanted, and I love it. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Cage Hero #3 (Dynamite) – I don’t know if this has become a guilty pleasure for me, but I’m enjoying this series. I can’t tell if it is being deliberately tongue in cheek,or if it’s just that cheesy, but either way it’s fun. Is it worth reading? Honestly, I don’t know – the review copy is entertaining, but I wouldn’t rush out to buy it. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Faith #1 of 4 (Valiant) – My reservations on picking this comic up were utterly groundless (that of a character spun out of Harbinger – a book I’ve never read), and I should have known that before going in because it’s a Valiant comic. The first of four issues is brilliantly illustrated, with some fantastic moments within the story where Faith does what we’ve all done once or twice and imagines…. what if? This issue is fantastic, and is exactly why you need to have Valiant on your pull list. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Holy F*cked! TPB (Action Lab) – Satan is pregnant with Jesus’ baby. But will the skate boarding son of God make it to the hospital in time, when an immortal is out to stop him? Holy F*cked! is as brilliantly wrong as it sounds, but it’s such a great collection that you can’t help but love it. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Huck #3 (Image) – Y’know I could talk about the emotional power in the largely silent opening pages, or the genuine warmth you feel when reading this, but why don’t you just buy the series so far and find out why I love this so much? Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

The Precinct #2 (Dynamite) – There’s a lot here that, in theory, I should love. Unfortunately, despite the fact that there’s a lot of boxes checked off in my “like” column this comic just didn’t do it for me. If you read it, I hope you enjoy it, but I felt it fell a bit short of the first issue. Overall: 6.5 Recommendation: Read

The Troop #2 (Titan) – Despite the promise shown in the first issue, I couldn’t help but feel that this comic felt familiar. The concept of a man (with a secret!) building a team of superheroes has been done before, and in enough cases it’s been done better. Overall: 5 Recommendation: Pass

Rebels #10 (Dark Horse) – Is, as far as I can tell, a standalone story. It’s also the first issue I had read, and I was impressed. Rebels is a solid offering that stands alone this week in terms of it’s setting, so if you’re looking for a comic that takes place during the Revolutionary War, then this is for you. If you’re not? Think about this anyway. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Brett

Abe Sapien #30 (Dark Horse) – Beautiful art plus a new villain (at least I think he’s new), this is an issue that can be a standalone, but I’m sure will have some big impact. The Mignolaverse is one of the best out there, and this issue shows off why. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Batman ’66 Meets the Man From U.N.C.L.E. #2 (DC Comics) – The comic is campy goofy fun, capturing the two series it mashes together. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2 (DC Comics/IDW Publishing) – I still go back and forth with the coloring but this series has no right being as good as it is. Didn’t think it’d work, totally does. Overall: 8.2 Recommendation: Buy

Birthright #13 (Image Comics) – The comic still continues to be entertaining, and there’s some solid twists and turns that have kept me on my toes. A fun fantasy comic set in the real world. Overall: 7.9 Recommendation: Read

Citizen Jack #3 (Image Comics) – Can’t say I saw that twist coming, or is that realistic at all, but the sniveling campaign staff is spot on. Fun political satire. Overall: 8.1 Recommendation: Buy

Descender #9 (Image Comics) – One of the best comics out there continues on doing so. Amazing read. Amazing art. Nuff said. Overall: 8.8 Recommendation: Buy

Extraordinary X-Men #5 (Marvel)* – The series is growing on me, but it’s still missing something that makes it really stand out. I’m still interested in seeing where it goes though. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Hero Hourly #2 (21 Pulp) – How aren’t more people talking about this series. The biggest surprise of 2015 also is one of the best of 2016. Holy crap is it good. Overall: 9.6 Recommendation: Buy

Huck #3 (Image Comics) – When I think I have Mark Millar pegged, he does a series like this. Still waiting for the rug to be pulled out from under me, but so far an amazing comic. Overall: 8.3 Recommendation: Buy

Illuminati #3 (Marvel) – Turn your brain off fun. The comic is giving us some interesting villains and great banter. A fun comic that definitely entertains. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Leaving Megalopolis: Surviving Megalopolis #1 (Dark Horse) – I hated the first volume of Leaving Megaloppolis, and was a Kickstarter backer. The rather incomplete, abrupt ending irked me. This new volume has been so long in the making I forgot much of the series, and this new issue doesn’t give me much to care going forward. A lot feels like we’ve seen it before and little is new. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Pass

The Massive: Ninth Wave #2 (Dark Horse) – I’m loving this new volume of the series which shows Ninth Wave’s actions before the crash. A great comic which makes environmentalism entertaining. Plus they’re self-contained stories, even better! Overall: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

Robin War #2 (DC Comics) – The ending isn’t too shocking, especially the twist. Still, this event was entertaining and should shake things up nicely in the Bat universe. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

The Sheriff of Babylon #2 (Vertigo)* – Great police procedural comic set in Iraq’s Greenzone. I’m hooked. Overall: 8.3 Recommendation: Buy

Spirited Leaves #1 (Chapter House Comics) – It reminded me of a Miyazaki animted film in many ways. A very pretty, almost poetic story. This feels like a fairy tale you might tell your child. Overall: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Squadron Supreme #3 (Marvel)* – The first issue had promise, these past two, not so much. The series is very paint by numbers in its set up after a great start. So far, one of the biggest let downs. Overall: 6.8 Recommendation: Pass

The Violent #2 (Image Comics) – Holy crap is this good. We have comic of the year material here. Just heartbreaking in so many ways. Overall: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Weirdworld #3 (Marvel)* – Could be Marvel’s best All-New, All-Different comic. Great art and a real fun story. Just fantastic writing with a great look. Overall: 8.7 Recommendation: Buy

Elana

Catwoman #48 (DC)* It’s a good Catwoman story. It posits that NYC is a place that Gotham’s rogues steer clear of because NYC but the NYPD is just that dirty and violent (I take it the creative team’s been reading the local news). The streetscapes in this comic ring true though the grand scale of NYC’s Selina’s safe house is far too large for anyone who’s last name isn’t Wayne. The art is inky and sleek and colorist Eva De La Cruz knocks it out of the ballpark. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Princeless: Save Yourself #0. Princess Adrienne has been flying across the land on her dragon, saving other princesses and she hasn’t had much time to save herself from social norms that still weigh on her mind. This is a wonderful exploration of a girl freeing herself from beauty standards. When she chopped her hair off I absolutely cheered! Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Red Sonja #1 (Dark Horse) This is a Sonja I’ve been waiting for! Marguerite Bennett shows her in and out of her element in a great introduction. She’ll be wrestling with some interesting politics in her homeland with her fists and her brains. She’s also scoring with ladies (whoop!). Looks beginner friendly too. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy!

Ryan C

Code Pru #1 (Avatar) *: Garth Ennis is back at his tasteless best here, and without the editorial constraints that hindered him from going quite as far as you know he wanted to with All-Star Section Eight (although, hey, bless him for trying, and he did manage to at least get a rapping Phantom Stranger in there). Raulo Caceres’ B&W art is superb, with richly-detailed linework and lush expressions. Not sure how the two competing/corresponding plotlines to which we’re introduced — one involving our college-age heroine, Pru, and her various roommates doing some occult dabbling and some boozing (more of the latter, of course) and the other involving an extra-dimensional Cthulhu-esque entity playing checkers and trading barbs with his captor —will come together as the series progresses, but it’ll be fun to find out. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Snow Blind #1 & #2 (BOOM! Studios)**: Ollie Masters, last seen cooking up a pretty tasty crime story with Vertigo’s The Kitchen, hops aboard the “rural noir” bandwagon that’s been growing in the wake of “Revival” with this intriguing little four-parter about a teenage kid in BF Alaska named Teddy who accidentally exposes his family to danger when posting a picture on social media leads a killer to come after them — and to the revelation that his folks have been in witness protection since before he was even born, and never bothered to mention that pesky little fact to him, even once he was old enough to understand what it meant. The first issue’s a bit of an overly-deliberate table-setter, but such is often the case with short-run books like this; in #2, the mystery really heats up and events move into a decidedly faster and more dangerous gear. The loose, sketchy art style of Tyler(“Peter Panzerfaust”) Jenkins may be an acquired taste that not everyone acquires, but I dig it and think it suits the material just fine. Overall: 6.5 (5 for issue one, 8 for issue two) Recommendation: Buy

Shean

Manchette’s Fatale TPB (Titan): I am moon big sucker for Crime Noir novels and Fatale is right up that alley. The Reader is introduced to the alluring character of Melane on her many adventures throughout Europe by way of train meeting individuals of different shades of integrity. Story feels very much like a cross between a Long Kiss Goodnight and A Rage Up In Harlem. By story’s end, you not only feel for Melane but you are rooting for her to fight on for another day. Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency: The Interconnectedness of All Kings TPB: Supernatural detectives are everywhere in pop culture most noticeably John Constantine Jim Dresden and the greenest one, Antoine Wolfe. Dirk Gently is quite different from all these characters, as he does not take himself as seriously as he comes off as a British Lupin the 3rd. We join Dirk and his cronies as they solve a very odd case dealing with Egyptian Pharoahs. By story’s end, the reader has gone on a whirlwind trip around the world, as he realizes the world needs his skills.

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

Posted on January 12, 2016 by Brett

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: Hero Hourly #2 (21 Pulp) – The first issue of the first series from new publisher 21 Pulp took me by complete surprise Telling the story of a man employed at a minimum wage company who employs superheroes, Hero Hourly is a comic that, quite frankly, you have to be reading.

Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2 (DC Comics/IDW Publishing) – Batman and the Ninja Turtles. There’s really nothing else for me to say about why I’m looking forward to this other than the last issue was actually really good.

Huck #3 (Image) – This comic just makes feel all warm and fuzzy inside. A great feel good series from Mark Millar (at least so far) that you should look into before the inevitable movie.

Brett

Top Pick: The Walking Dead #150 (Image Comics/Skybound) – It’s going to be a huge issue and it’s been hinted to expect fireworks out of it. Big anniversary issues like this tend to bring huge shifts in Robert Kirkman’s series, and I’m expecting no less.

Captain Canuck #6 (Chapter House Comics) – I’ve been loving this series and continue to do so. It’s a throwback to fun superheros without the gritty darkness.

Hero Hourly #2 (21 Pulp) – The first issue was hilarious and an amazing debut for this new publisher. I’ve been awaiting the second, and it’s one of the first comics I’m reading this week.

Legend of Wonder Woman #1 (DC Comics) – I really am not a fan of the main Wonder Woman at DC, but this digital turned print series is a breath of fresh air as it looks at the early years of the Amazonians and Wonder Woman as she was growing up. Much like Superman: American Alien, this is trying to get at what makes Wonder Woman wonderful.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers #0 (BOOM! Studios) – I was never a Power Rangers fan growing up. I was just a bit too old and out of the age range for the show. Still, the concept was always interesting to me and I’ve been looking forward to seeing what BOOM! does with the series as a comic.

Elana

All-New Wolverine #4 (Marvel) – One of Marvel comics’ bests. Complex, haunted but heroic, Laura is trying to take care of her abused clones by seeking help from Doctor Strange! I never considered this team up and I can’t wait!

Constantine the Hellblazer #8 (DC Comics) – It is DC’s best comic. It’s about the mad, bad and dangerous to know exorcist who’d left his date in a bit of a lurch. It’s going to be great!

No Mercy #6 (Image Comics) – I hate Chad. I want him to die. He is an abuser and a bully and he’s on the cover of this month’s issue with a skull imposed over his head. So maybe this most brutally harsh comic will kill someone who’s really got it coming? Maybe?

Raven Pirate Princess TP Volume 1 (Action Lab Entertainment) – Teenage Lesbian Asian Pirate Princess in an all-ages comic!!! One of the year’s best new series for older-kids and tweens (and adults who like things that are funny, exciting and feminist). Get caught up with the all girl pirate crew. A perfect introductory comic to the Princeless world of diverse, feminist heroic heroines who take no guff and save the day. Here’s my review of the first two issues featured in this compendium.

Javier

Top Pick: Slash and Burn #3 (DC Vertigo) – This is my top pick of the week. I happen to be a Volunteer Firefighter in the town I live in, so I’m digging this one at a personal level.

Bad Moon Rising #4 (451 Media) – This one is filling my Showhole left behind by the cancellation of Sons of Anarchy. It’s got Motorcycle Gangs (possibly Buddhist), Werewolves, and a Murder Mystery.

Hero Hourly #2 (21 Pulp) – Who can’t relate to the plight of the under-paid and under-appreciated working man with super powers? And if you can’t relate, at least have a good laugh.

Limbo #3 (Image Comics) – More Detective Work in a Dead End … oops … in Dedande City. I recommend you snack on some lizards while reading it.

The Violent #2 (Image Comics) – A violence filled tourist’s guide to Canada’s Strathcona: the Canadian Brooklyn (condos and all).

Logan

Top Pick: New Romancer #2 (Vertigo) – New Romancer is the crown jewel in the Vertigo Renaissance and the perfect 21st century love story for someone who uses Tinder and OK Cupid, but misses the love sonnets and romance of yore. Plus Casanova and Lord Byron facing off is going to be a blast.

Red Sonja #1 (Dynamite) – If anyone had to take over for Gail Simone on Red Sonja, it’s Marguerite Bennett, who last wrote the She-Devil with a Sword in the funny, action-packed Red Sonja and Jungle Girl miniseries. I expect nothing but the best in interesting female characters, swashbuckling action, and tongue-in-cheek humor.

Robin War #2 (DC Comics) – The most woke crossover of 2015 comes to a close in the New Year as Damian Wayne doesn’t check his privilege and joins the Court of the Owls to fight Gotham’s teen defenders, We Are Robin, and their more seasoned mentors. It will be interesting to see if there is any last political commentary from writer Tom King, and the martial arts battle will be fun to see unfold.

Secret Wars #9 (Marvel) – This crossover has been a little uneven to say the least, but the previous issue had some Return of the King worthy pitched battles and sheer badass moments, like Doom crushing Thanos’ skulls. Hopefully, Jonathan Hickman sticks the ending in his Marvel epic, doesn’t just push the reset/reboot button via a plot device or something, and gives the Fantastic Four a sendoff worthy of Marvel’s First Family.

The Violent #2 (Image) – Ed Brisson and Adam Gorham are going into some murky, moral territory in their new series The Violent from Image, and he pulls no punches showing the effect gentrification has had on the city of Vancouver. I am intrigued to see how far Mason is willing to go to be a good father while battling the spectres of his criminal past and trying to make ends meet.

Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2 (DC Comics/IDW Publishing) – The Dark Knight, Shredder, Turtles. Need I say more? Nope grab a slice and set aside some time for this one!

Secret Wars #9 (Marvel) – Come see how it all ends and how it all begins again. The conclusion to Marvel’s best event in ages. I’m with Uatu on this one, just want to be ringside as it unfolds.

The Walking Dead #150 (Image Comics/Skybound) – The big one. Let’s hope much more walking than talking. Oh yeah and blood. Lots of blood. Come see where Rick Grimes goes next.

Patrick

Top Pick: The Walking Dead #150 (Image Comics) – Tensions have been building in Alexandria over what’s to be done with the Whisperers, a rival community that wears the flesh of walkers. Rick has been struggling to maintain control. In this issue, we find out what that means for him. Negan made a name for himself fifty issues ago, and the Governor fell fifty issues before that. I wonder what will happen tomorrow…

Hero Hourly #2 (21 Pulp) – There’s really no reason you shouldn’t be looking for this book at your local comic store. Do you like laugh? Pick it up. Do you like grabbing comics that people will be talking about for years to come? Pick it up. Do you have a rash your trying to hide while walking back to work? Maybe… maybe this would work for that. But it’s a fantastic comic if you’re just looking for something to read.

No Mercy #6 (Image Comics) – The horrors that have befallen these students continue to unfold as they live in danger of coyotes, drug cartels and even each other. Don’t pass up the chance to keep up with who kills whom.

Paul

Top Pick: Extraordinary X-Men #5 (Marvel) – This title has been BANG since issue 1 and doesn’t show signs of slowing down. New school in limbo; demons attacking; Mr. Sinister is back…and the reveal from the last issue! Where is this going?? Loving the team line up and the art. If you aren’t reading this X book, you better get caught up….I’ll wait.

All-New X-Men #3 (Marvel) – I wasn’t really sure I would enjoy the whole road trip vibe with the time displaced X-Men (as X-Force tried this way back when and it didn’t really work), but I’m kinda digging it. Feels a little rehashed with the Ghosts of Cyclops coming across as junior Acolytes, but they are an interesting gang to counter our band of mutants so I’ll stick along for the ride. Not really feeling Kid Apocalypse and Oya as part of the group, so I’m hoping they gel as the series goes on, but it is fun and I do enjoy the read. But I am really getting tired of Angel treating Wolverine as the damsel in distress….enough already.

Scarlet Witch #2 (Marvel) – Honestly, Issue 1 was just meh (you can read my review if you like), I didn’t hate it, but I wasn’t wowed. I loved the art and I do have a soft spot for Wanda, one of my favourite characters. I’m holding out hope that this whole ‘witchcraft is broken’ story really goes somewhere different and takes Wanda in a unique direction.

Secret Wars #9 (Marvel) – END ALREADY. You’ve already launched your All New All Different; confused the readers by hinting at things in the new titles that haven’t happened. You started with a bang…yes, you had some great tie ins, but lets be honest, you are definitely limping to the finish line.

Uncanny Avengers #4 (Marvel) – Like the last volume of this title, I just can’t stop checking it out….not that it’s good, I just can’t stop looking. Maybe I’m hoping it turns around, maybe I just feel sorry for it, I don’t know. I feel there’s potential here…I just wish it could be reached.

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 19/12/2015

Posted on December 20, 2015 by Alex K Cossa

Alex

The Paybacks #3: Two words: Hell. Yes. Overall Rating: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Klaus #2** This is easily one of the best looking comics on the racks this month, and it’s also one of the most entertaining. I’m really enjoying the sense of soul within it’s pages. Overall Rating: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Huck #2 was another comic released this week that just screams goodness. When an entire town conspire to keep the secret of a superhero, how can you not fall in love with the story? Overall Rating: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Invincible #126. I’ve not really read much Invincible lately, so reading the final issue of a three part reboot/not reboot probably wasn’t smart on my behalf, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Read

Judge Dredd #1 is an interesting new direction for the character. I’m curious to see what happens next, and this was just good enough to bring me back for more. Overall Rating: 7.75 Recommendation: Read

Will Eisner’s The Spirit #6: If you’ve been reading the series, then this is just more of the same, which is far from a bad thing. Well worth checking out if you haven’t been reading it. Overall Rating: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

King Conan: Wolves Beyond The Border #1 is the first Conan comic I’ve read in months, and it was awesome. There’s a lot of set up here for what’s going to come in the next few issues, and I’m looking forward to see what that’ll be – especially with the renewed interest in the character that’s bound to stem from the new movie. Overall Rating: 8.25 Recommendation: Read

Brett

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth #138 – Mignola has put together one of the best comic universes out there, and this issue feels like it’s building to something epic and huge for it all. Love each issue not just for the entertaining story but the amazing distinctive art that screams Mignolaverse. Overall Rating: 8.2 Recommendation: Read

Batman Europa #2 – Batman and Joker do battle together in a weird team-up that has the two trying to figure out who’s out to kill them. It’s a strange story, but the art is fantastic and to see these two team-up is really entertaining. A solid miniseries that I’m enjoying much more than I thought I would. Overall Rating: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Justice League #46 – This issue felt very off to me. It picks up after a month of one-shots and catches folks up to where we’re at, at least that’s what it feels like. It’s a meh issue that has some important moments, but comes off more as a recap than anything else. Overall Rating: 6.7 Recommendation: Pass

Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer and the Vampire Zoo – I’ve generally enjoyed the Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer series, and was looking forward to this comic. While this one has some funny moments the overall issue feels more like a video game going from one level to the next. Compared to what’s come before, this one just doesn’t stand up in quality. Overall Rating: 6.3 Recommendation: Pass

Descender #8 – I love this series and this one has a great feel of what I expect from a space opera epic. The art is top notch and this one has some cool trippy aspects to it that I look forward to seeing where they go. Overall Rating: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

The Goddamned #2 – I’m still trying to figure out this series. It’s Jason Aaron’s twisted Bible tale and while I’m enjoying it, I’m still not quite sure what to think overall. I feel like I’m missing something. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

Huck #2 – Just loving this series. It’s a fun innocent take on the superhero myth. Overall Rating: 8.1 Recommendation: Buy

I Hate Fairyland #3 – Holy shit is this series messed up. Twisted fairy tales that I feel a little dirty by the fact I’m enjoying it so much. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Read

The Tithe #7 – Really relevant, Matt Hawkins has put together an interesting series that follows FBI agents tracking down folks using religion to manipulate elections. Sound familiar? Overall Rating: 7.9 Recommendation: Read

All-New X-Men #2 – The second issue feels like a middle tier X-Men run of the past. Some interesting ideas here and potential, but not blowing me away. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

Darth Vader Annual #1 – A one-shot that I feel will have some impact down the road. Marvel’s Star Wars comics are consistently fantastic reads. Overall Rating: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Illuminati #2 – This series focusing on some of Marvel’s villains getting together has been a really interesting read. One that I’m really enjoying with a good mix of humor and characters. Overall Rating: 7.7 Recommendation: Read

Monster World #1 – A throwback in many ways of a detective comic with a mystery on a movie studio plot. A little mixed on what I think overall, but not bad. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

Elana

The Wicked + The Divine #17. Guest artist Brandon Graham’s style combines manga and graffiti styles. Perfect match for Sakmet. His art steals the show on this issue and carries much of the storytelling. The character remains elusive in many ways but I did come away with more. I’d still like more from her. Overall Rating: 9

No Mercy #5. Really brutal. Great reveals and character beats. A few moments of characters shouting things I’ve been itching for them to say. I feel for Sister Inez here. She just wanted a roof for her school damnit! Overall Rating: 8

Weirdworld #1. Mike del Mundo’s art was central to the disturbing awesomeness and beauty of the Elektra series a couple of years back and his new sword and sandals on drugs series is a wonderful expansion on it. I enjoy the world they’re building and their Latina protagonist is a great new creation. Overall Rating: 8.5

Shean

King Conan: Wolves Beyond The Border #1: With all the rumblings surrounding the new Conan movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as an older and wiser King, it is so cool of Dark Horse to expose some of those dimensions.The story by Timothy Truman is gritty, bloody, stinks of the Medieval Age, and a whole lot of fun. The art by Tomas Giorello, harken back to the old Conan comics I grew up reading with a touch of Frank Frazetta. Altogether , Great start to a promising miniseries, and seems to be the type of excitement the Bastard Executioner only hoped to come close to. Overall: 9.8

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

Posted on December 15, 2015 by Graphic Policy Team

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: Ivar, Timewalker #12 (Valiant) – This series has become one of my favourites with it’s mix of humour and intelligently handled time travel fueled story line that is both twisted and surprisingly easy to follow. With the current arc coming to a close this issue, I’m stoked to see just how the arc comes to a close.

The Goddamned #2 (Image Comics) – You know what? I love the idea behind this comic, and it’s re-imagining of a certain book has an edgy feel to it that I love. Violent and unapologetic, I can’t wait to see where Jason Aaron takes this.

Huck #2 (Image Comics) – The first issue was a great surprise filled with a childlike innocence. While I doubt that’ll continue, I am curious to see what direction Millar heads here.

Judge Dredd #1 (IDW Publishing) – A character that’s a staple for many Brits, I’m looking forward to see how this translates on this side of the pond.

Klaus #2 (BOOM! Studios) – Viking Santa as told by Grant Morrison with some stunning art by Dan Mora? Can’t. Get. Enough.

Brett

Top Pick: Lucifer #1 (Vertigo) – I’ve watched the television pilot for the 2016 television series, and I have no idea if this comic will be close in tone or plot. But, Vertigo has a solid history with the character and it’s one I’m eagerly awaiting to see what it’s like and about.

Descender #8 (Image Comics) – Jeff Lemire’s sci-fi tale isn’t just touching and exciting, but the art by Dustin Nguyen is beautiful to look at. Last issue had a hell of a revelation (though you could see it coming) that has me even more excited to see what’s next.

Superman: American Alien #2 (DC Comics) – The first issue of this miniseries was one of the best takes on Superman that I’ve read in a long time. I can’t wait to see what the second issue has in store for us.

Squadron Supreme #1 (Marvel) – The concept of a super power team from other worlds taking out threats through any means necessary is intriguing. This is the Avengers who have no issue killing. The concept sounds a bit like the Dark Avengers to me, and that’s ok since it was a concept that worked, and these character push should make an interesting eventually collision with the rest of the Marvel U.

Weirdworld #1 (Marvel) – I’ve already read the first issue and I’ll admit that this comic was initially low on my list. But, after reading that first issue, I can say this is one of the best debuts of All-New, All-Different Marvel and a solid read this week. Fantastic debut.

Elana

Top Pick: Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #6 (Image Comics) – I couldn’t love a comic more. In Phonogram phonomancers use music to do magic, generally to transform themselves (which never ever backfires, oh no). A must read for anyone who is super particular about what they listen to. Here’s my treatise on why this comic is so brilliant. and here’s my fan mix/review of issue 4.

Top Pick: The Wicked + The Divine #17 (Image Comics) – Finally: the Sekmet issue! We haven’t heard much from the Rihanna cat goddess stand in so I’m eager to hear what she has to say. The art is from Brandon Graham who’s anime and hip-hop influenced style is PURRREFECT (sorry) for this issue. Check out my review of issue 16.

Batgirl #46 (DC Comics) – Spoiler is back! Spoiler is back! Batgirl is teaming up with Spoiler!

Jem & The Holograms Holiday Special (IDW Publishing) – Sounds like fun mischief with The Misfits. Sophie Campbell’s exhuberant and wonderfully diverse art has been key to the series success but I am excited to get our first look at new artist Amy Mebberson. She’s done a lot of Disney but I hope she maintains the body diversity that has made this comic resonate with so many people.

The Mighty Thor #2 (Marvel) – Issue 1 starred the arm seen round the (comics) world. Can’t wait to see what issue 2 has for Doctor Jane Foster who is Thor and is awesome.

Javier

Top Pick: Descender #8 (Image Comics) – Tim-21 and Tim-22 team up to join the Robot Resistance. Forget Star Wars, when is J.J. Abrams making a Descender movie. Just kidding, I love Star Wars too, but this is really good sci-fi storytelling. Asimov would approve, and so do I.

Cognetic #3 (Boom! Studios) – James Tynion IV’s and Eryk Donavan’s latest horror book concludes as the Apocalyptic Sister and Brother mind bending sibling rivalry comes to an end (for at least one of the two).

ExMortis #2 (451 Media) – Monsters unite to fight the first True Monster: Hitler. Good old fashioned WW II action with a Frankenstein versus Nazis twist; and a werewolf, too, thrown in for good measure.

Tokyo Ghost #4 (Image Comics) – Rick Remender’s dystopian, over-entertained future society, riddled with Japanese inspired memes, is depressing and entertaining at the same time. Plus Sean Murphy’s visuals pushes this one over the edge.

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #2 (Valiant Entertainment) – The Eternal Warrior’s Dantean escape from Hell (or was it Paradise) begins. It’s written by Robert Venditti who never disappoints, with steel inspired blood splattering art by Raul Allen.

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 11/22

Posted on November 22, 2015 by Alex K Cossa

Alex

Huck #1 is fantastic. This is an innocent tale of hope and the inherent goodness of one man; that it comes from the man behind Kick-Ass surprises me greatly. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

The Saga Of The Jack Of Spades is the first issue in a successfully funded Indiegogo project aimed toward a young adult audience. Featuring a story that’s centered around four kingdoms based of the four suits in a deck of cards. It’s a unique concept that is executed fairly well, but fell a little short when it came to really drawing me into the comic. Maybe the next issue will do that, though. You can find a bit more information about the comic here, and it’s worth checking out when you’ve got a chance.
Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Brett

Action Comics #46: Just so bad. I know there’s a big picture here, but something is so off with this Superman series, and Superman as a whole. Overall Rating: 6 Recommendation: Pass

BPRD Hell on Earth #137: Consistently entertaining, this series really ups the action and intrigue as the BPRD makes a move against New York with the US Navy. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Read

Codename Baboushka #2: A fun spy comic with lots of action. The art is a little off at times, but the story is fun as all hell. If you like your Bond light and full of action, this kick-ass woman will fit your needs. Overall Rating: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Descender #7: The latest issue sets this series in a bit of a new direction by introducing some new characters. It also has a moment that actually caught me off-guard. And the art! Absolutely beautiful to look at. Each issue delivers and one of the best series on the market. Overall Rating: 8.75 Recommendation: Buy

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas: I just know the movie, so compared to that, this is a great adaptation. The art captures the manic and over the top events. For fans of Thompson, this is a must get. Overall Rating: 9 Recommendation: Buy

I Hate Fairyland #2: Just so twisted. And so much fun. Foulmouthed pint sized twisted fun. Overall Rating: 8.1 Recommendation: Buy

Jughead #2: The second issue continues to deliver mixing “real world” high school life with Jughead’s fantasies. Just a great blend and interesting type of storytelling. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Read

Pawn Shop: A series of interconnecting stories that’s heart touching and a fantastic read for those who like a slice of life story. This is one of the few comics I’ve read multiple times, and I feel like I catch something new each time. Overall Rating: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

The Paybacks #3: One of the funniest comics out there and such a great series. Mixes action, laughs, and superheroes perfectly. Overall Rating: 8.3 Recommendation: Buy

Star Wars: Kanan #8: The best Star Wars comic out there right now. Based on Star Wars: Rebels, it’s giving us some great history before Episode III and between Episode III and IV. Overall Rating: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

Transformers: Robots in Disguise #47: What should Optimus do next? This issue is laying the groundwork for that, and it’s interesting. Overall Rating: 8.1 Recommendation: Read

Elana

Constantine #6*: Consistently one of the best comics from DC or Marvel. Issue 6 is a perfect jumping on point for anyone who missed the earlier series. John takes his exorcism skills on tour through the 5 boroughs of NYC serving a realistic range of customers including party demons in Bushwick (lord knows, I’ve been there). The episode is funny with a dark foreboding at its core. Some force seems to want John to connect with that nice, hot, normal restaurant owner/chef he flirted with. John knows that everyone who gets close to him gets hurt. But being alone hurts too. Overall Rating: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Jughead #2: Tons of fun. I’m totally new to this series and I’m enjoying it immensely. Expressive, funny art from Erica Henderson is a perfect fit for Zdarsky’s jokes. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Pretty Deadly #6: A whole new chapter of the story starts here. Still poetic and atmospheric the setting is shifting to the battlefields of World War 1. Rios’ art is moody and creative. It looks like no other comic on the stands and is the reason I’m giving this an Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Spider-Woman #1*. I’m all for stories about pregnant superheros and super-heroes who become parents. The Danny Rand/ Misty Knight love story in Secret Wars Secret Loves was the best thing in the whole mega-event. But I don’t know why Spider-Woman is having a baby. It’s a character who has specifically said she didn’t want kids in the past. I’m not saying that pronouncements are set in stone. But I need the comic to do a better job of selling me on this. Right now it still feels like a violation of her spirit.

If Roger (aka Porcupine) is the dad I’m going to punch a wall. Heck, even if Ben Urich is (and he’s a great character who I’ve enjoyed for years) I’ll also be pissed. To be honest, I hope we never know. I like her independent dammit! Jessica Drew is one of my favorite super heroes. I never identified with her or anything, I just appreciated how shameless she was about loving her powers.

At least her clothes are realistic clothes for a grown woman. Sad that drawing that still feels like an achievement.

Overall Rating: 3 but I’m willing to be convinced later. Maybe.

Mr H

Batman and Robin Eternal #7*: Continuing off last weeks strong showing, this issue jumps Team Robin back in the drivers seat following trails of breadcrumbs to Prague. We get a little more insight to Mother and a scene where Bruce Wayne tries to set up a meeting with her. We also get a fun interrogation team up with Jason and Tim and a fun cliffhanger. Story moved well and art was fluid. Another good showing this week. Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Extraordinary X-Men #2*: Seeing the X-Men use a reconstituted Sentinel as Cerebra is pretty cool. I enjoyed the issue quite a bit. Yes it feels like business as usual with the X-Men still hated and M-Pox seems like a retread of the Legacy Virus, but this time it seems more dire. Jean throwing away a “normal” life to do the right thing only to be unappreciated was a nice touch. I am enjoying Old Man Logan’s inclusion too. So while it doesn’t feel completely “All-New” it was new enough. Ramos and Lemire are a great team. I hope they stay on the title for a while. Plus bearded Colosus is awesome. Overall Rating: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.

Around the Tubes

Posted on November 19, 2015 by Graphic Policy Team

It was new comic book day yesterday. What’d folks get and enjoy? What’d you get and dislike? Sound off in the comments below!

While you debate about that, here’s some comic news and reviews from around the web.

Around the Tubes

Hollywood Reporter – Johnny Knoxville, NBC Adapting ‘Hawaiian Dick’ Comic Series – Is there a comic series not coming to television or movies at this point?

The Dallas Morning News – Two imprisoned for child porn face more time for obscene comics – A very interesting read.

Pacific Standard – The Social Justice League – This book sounds awesome!

CBLDF – Another Cartoonist Arrested in Iran – Sigh.

GamePolitics – Playing Politics: Stardock founder Brad Wardell on ‘Political Machine 2016’ – So want to play this game.

ICv2 – “The Originals” Showrunner Adapting Vertigo’s “Unfollow” – See above.

Women Write About Comics – Cartooning Disability: Hawkeye and Hearing Loss – Some interesting comic history and lots of questions.

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – Batman: Europa #1

Comic Vine – Extraordinary X-Men #2

Comic Vine – Green Lantern: The Lost Army #5

Comic Vine – Huck #1

The Outhousers – I Hate Fairyland #2

The Rainbow Hub – Jem and the Holograms #9

CBR – Jughead #2

The Rainbow Hub – Jughead #2

CBR – The Lion of Rora

The Beat – The Mighty Thor #1

Comic Vine – The Mighty Thor #1

Comic Vine – Red Thorn #1

The Beat – Star Wars: Vader Down #1

Women Write About Comics – Toil and Trouble #3

CBR – Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #1

Around the Tubes

Review: Huck #1

Posted on November 18, 2015 by Brett

In a quiet seaside town, Huck uses his special gifts to do a good deed each day. His neighbors return the favors by keeping his abilities a secret. But when a newcomer alerts the media, a firestorm erupts, sending Huck on an adventure that will change everything.

Could writer Mark Millar be turning over a new leaf? With Huck #1, the writer continues his positive vibe that he began with his last comic series Starlight. In interviews the prolific writer has stated he thinks the state of comic movies is a bit too dark, and we need something a bit lighter at times. That thought process might explain the tone of this first issue, as well as the previously mentioned Starlight. It’s a break from what we’ve seen from the writer, and it’s actually really good. In fact, I want to see more of these two series.

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this comic, but the first issue is very positive, and that’s great as its something we need more of to move beyond the dark and gritty characters and comics that have dominated for so long. At first, I wasn’t quite sure when the series took place, but Millar smartly uses some current events to help guide us as far as that, and also set up the type of hero we’re dealing with.

Millar is helped by Rafael Albuquerque whose art is some of the best in the comic industry. His name alone will get me to check out a comic, and here he delivers with his usual style that fits really well to this superhero story which puts a small town twist to it all.

It’s clear the two creators have something to say and I wish we got more in this first issue. My only complaint is that it was a rather quick read. I want to see more of what Millar has to say, and Albuquerque’s fantastic art. I went in not knowing what to expect, and came out the other end of the first issue blown away and wanting more. In many ways Huck is an anachronism, and that’s not a bad thing at all. Some times that’s completely refreshing.

Story: Mark Millar Art: Rafael Albuquerque
Story: 8.4 Art: 8.8 Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review