Tag Archives: Marvel Comics

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 11/11

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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.

FALCON #2 1Ryan C

The Falcon #2 (Marvel)** – I really wanted to like this comic, but so far Rodney Barnes and Joshua Cassara aren’t giving me much reason to. The tone of the story is wildly uneven, going from lame, obvious, forced humor to angst-y melodrama without notice; the supernatural-themed plot is limp;, and the art is awash in so much smudgy darkness that basic things like facial expressions end up totally obscured. Not even a guest appearance from one of Marvel’s coolest characters, Brother Voodoo, can elevate this above “train-wreck” status. I thought about bailing after issue one, but decided to give it another chance — I won’t be making that mistake again. Overall: 2 Recommendation: Pass

Action Comics #991 (DC)** – So that was “The Oz Effect,” huh? Glad it’s over. Viktor Bogdanovic’s art is bright and crisp enough to keep you interested, but Dan Jurgens (at the behest of his editors, I’m sure) essentially served up a five-part “major” story arc. that functions as nothing but set-up for “Doomsday Clock.” Nothing’s resolved, nothing’s explained, nothing matters. So glad I wasted $20 on five issues of this. Overall: 3.5 Recommendation: Pass

Gass Kings #9 (Boom! Studios)** – A bit of a “sidebar” issue from Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins here, but one that moves the main narrative along nicely regardless given that the two young characters we’re following along in this story are investigating the same mysterious death that our main protagonists have been, and their youthful enthusiasm and naivete adds a more light-hearted tone than we’re used to from this series. Fun, intriguing, and, as always, absolutely gorgeous to look at. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Mister Miracle #4 (DC)** – Tom King and Mitch Gerads lay down the law — literally — this time out as Orion places Scott Free on trial in his own house. Good thing there’s plenty of veggies for everyone. Probably the weakest issue so far, it’s gotta be said, but that still means it’s better than just about any other “Big Two” book you’d care to Force-1-cover-Jay-Reed-198x300.jpgmention. Plus, the cliffhanger is genuinely pretty goddamn harrowing. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

Logan

Force #1 (Action Lab) The new football themed comic from writers Shawn Pryor and B. Alex Thompson and artist Jay Reed sputters out of the gate with a flashback to a game featuring player we have no context about. Then, it makes another narrative no-no and goes to a previous game. However, by the end of the book, I felt like I actually cared about aging, scrappy Tennessee Boxers QB Terrence Wright whose situation reminded me a lot when the Indianapolis Colts were phasing out Peyton Manning for the hot shot rookie Andrew Luck. The faces in the art are kind of generic, but Reed kills in the final football scene. Rating: 7.2 Verdict: Read

Mister Miracle #4 (DC)– The nine panel grid turns into a trap for Scott Free in Tom King and Mitch Gerads’ as Orion and Lightray interrogate him as possibly having the anti-life equation. But he relationship between Scott and Barda is the real reason why this is one of my favorite current DC books because she stands up for him while he’s filled with self-loathing and hatred. Talking heads in a comic are usually pretty boring, but King and Gerads find a nice rhythm and push Scott to an almost literal breaking points with those sov2.jpgbright red and yellows causing a mess everywhere. Also, Orion is still an asshole. Overall: 9.4 Verdict: Buy

Shean

Spirits of Vengeance #2 (Marvel) We catch up our heroes shortly after learning of an upcoming war, but who, what and why is what’s at odds. As they face demons at every corner of the world, trying to thwart their efforts , they did out about A bounty on Johnny Blaze’s head. As they keep on digging, they soon find out that it’s not only a waterproof coming but one which occurs every 1000 years and are literally a meeting between heaven and hell taking place on Earth. By issue’s end, the man pulling strings, is revealed and he looks to end anyone in his way. Overall: 9.25 Recommendation: Buy

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

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 (**).

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 11/4

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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.

Logan

POWER PACK #63Power Pack #63 (Marvel): Damn, this one-shot made me miss Marvel’s other superhero family as Katie Power narrates an adventure of her and her superpowered siblings for a rewrite on a high school paper. It’s a retelling of an older Power Pack comic, but writer Devin Grayson editorializes enough to show how much Katie misses blasting bad guys with her family. The story is also a strong argument for outlandish, standalone superhero stories instead of “realistic” ones, and Marika Cresta’s clean lines remind me of New Mutants’ (and Power Pack fill-in artist) Bob McLeod. It is highly relatable to anyone who is missing a sibling, who has moved far away. Overall: 8.7 Recommendation: Buy

Ryan C

Batman: White Knight #2 (DC)** – I keep hoping that Sean Murphy has something else up his sleeve other than “look how I’m tweaking Gotham City norms at the margins,” but so far that’s all we’re getting here story-wise apart from some nasty white-washing of fascism. The art’s awesome, no question about it, and there’s a decent cliffhanger on offer here that will have you looking at Clayface in a new and decidedly unpleasant way, but damn — do we really need another story that looks at the most unpleasant aspect of Batman’s character (namely that he’s essentially a vigilante protecting the 1% by beating the crap out of poor people) and tries to cast it in a positive light a la “The Dark Knight Rises”? I think not. So far the only “message” I’m getting from this book is that if poor people get out of line, it’s up to the rich to knock them back down for the “good” of all. Pretty fucking repugnant, really. Overall: 4 Recommendation: Pass.

BMJKWK_Cv2_dsBatman #34 (DC)** – Another superb art job from Joelle Jones is wasted on another lazy-ass Tom King script. This is the most sumptuous-looking fight you’ll see all week, no question — but that’s still all we’re gejuy6tting here : an issue-length fight. Whatever. Overall: 3.5. Recommendation: Pass 

Crosswind #5 (Image)** – I’m still not sold on Cat Staggs’ heavily-photo-referenced art, being more a fan of actual free-hand drawing myself, but damn is Gail Simone’s darkly comic take on the “Freaky Friday” premise all kinds of fun. Events seem to be converging toward a conclusion of sorts, but hopefully the seeds of a second arc will be planted next issue, because I’d hate to see this book die a premature death. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

Paper Girls #17 (Image)** – When it comes to paying homage to Spielberg-style ’80s blockbusters, Brian K. Vaughn and Cliff Chiang are getting exactly right everything that “Stranger Things” season two got exactly wrong — and even though this issue is heavy on the exposition, it’s true, these are answers that have been a long time coming and they lead to even more questions, so it’s all good. And the art’s more than good, it’s great. The iron fist 74most quietly consistent series going, and one that’s got all kinds of heart, too. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Shean

Iron Fist #74 (Marvel) When Danny Rand returns home to NYC, he finds the Book of the Iron Fist stolen by the Serpent and the Serpent Society. He teams up with Sabretooth to find it while knocking some heads along the way. At the same time, an old villain of The Iron Fist, Choshin is looking to take over Kun Luna do with an army Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

 

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

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 (**).

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 10/29

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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.

Logan

BMMERC_Cv1_2PBatman: The Merciless #1 (DC)– What if Batman fought his war on crime as the literal God of War? After Diana is killed in a battle with Ares, Batman picks up his helm and becomes the Merciless. Thanks to Francis Manapul on art and colors, Batman: The Merciless #1 is one of the most visual stunning Metal tie-ins with a plethora of double page spreads and panels that grip the emotions and senses like Batman cradling Diana in his arms, or little evil Robins eating their Court of the Owls counterparts. Sadly, writer Peter Tomasi skimps on the complex relationship between Diana and Bruce, but mostly redeems this gap with a fun bit of Dr. Strangelove influenced satire as the various paramilitary organizations in the DC Universe scramble to fight the Dark Knights. Overall: 8.0 Recommendation: Buy

Ryan C

Black Panther #166 (Marvel)** – A pretty decent revisionist look at Klaw’s origins from writer Ta-Nehisi Coates, and Leonard Kirk’s art is an improvement over the litany of fill-in artists on offer in recent months, but we’re still very much in “competent, but uninspired” territory here. The trend is positive, but not enough to warrant a “buy” recommendation yet. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Read

Action Comics #990 (DC)** – The penultimate chapter of “The Oz Effect” honestly isn’t much better than the previous three, with fairly nice art from Viktor Bogdanovic that has more personality than most “Big Two” illustration frankly wasted on a Dan Jurgens story that feels very rote and “by-the-numbers” indeed. Mostly events just stall here until a terrible, forced, and drama-free cliffhanger finally cuts things off. Overall: 3.5 Recommendation: Pass.

GlitterbombTheFameGame_02-1Glitterbomb: The Fame Game #2 (Image)** – Another dreary and non-dramatic installment in what has to rank as the most disappointing return of 2017. I absolutely loved the first run of “Glitterbomb,” but writer Jim Zub and artist Djibril Morissette-Pham seem to be having a tough time shaking off the rust of their long hiatus. Our protagonist basically just does the exact same thing in this issue as she did in the last, and the horror of offer seems both tepid and shoehorned-in. Oh, how a once-mighty title has fallen. Overall: 3 Recommendation: Pass

Violent Love #9** – Wow, I didn’t see that coming! One of our two protagonists dies this issue, and both are victims of a massive double-cross. The truncated time frame that follows leads me to believe that this series is being rushed toward a forced conclusion, which is semi-tragic because Frank J. Barbiere’s scripting has been solid and Victor Santos’ art is just plain breathtaking. I’ll be sorry to see this one end. High marks to Ryan Ferrier and Jamie Jones for their superb back-up strip, as well. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

 

 

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

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 (**).

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 10/22

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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.

dept h 19.jpgChristopher

Dept H #19 (Dark Horse) Writer and Artist: Matt Kindt The story continues to merge in elements of the past, as the surviving crew arrives at the first many substations. Taking a much darker color scheme than previous issues. Creating a heavy atmosphere of desperation as the world may depend on the survival of the crew. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Joe

Batman #33 (DC) While a bit of a slow burn, I have enjoyed Tom King’s run on Batman, and this issue was no different. After the proposal was answered, we see Bruce and Selina in a far away land (I won’t spoil here), on a secret mission that has everyone more than a little worried. It’s a good set up, and a good addition to this series. Also, Joelle Jones is now on art for this arc, and it’s beautiful. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

The Mighty Thor #700 (Marvel) While there is a lot of awesome art from many of the great Thor artists, and Aaron writes and sets up more pieces to something bigger, I was hoping for something more. I don’t know if that’s on my expectations, but it is issue 700, and I don’t think it should have served as a set up comic, but something bigger. That being said, it’s still enjoyable and looks great. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Invincible Iron Man #593 (Marvel) Riri and Doom are both given plot threads that are sure to connect again soon. Ben still will never forgive Victor, and that makes sense. As CABLE #150for Riri, Amanda, and MJ, they have a company takeover to worry about, oh and that whole what happened to Tony business. There’s a pretty good cliffhanger at the end that sets things up nicely. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Cable #150 (Marvel) This is another nostalgic X-Book like Gold and Blue. That doesn’t mean it’s bad, I just found it to be a by the numbers, elbow nudging, hey remember this comic. We get Shatterstar, Longshot, Doop, and Cable looking into the death of an External. Brisson has done a solid job on Old Man Logan, and Iron Fist, so he’s shown he can do fun action quite well. If you’re looking for more 90s X-Force stuff, then look no further. Overall: 6.5 Recommendation: Read

Logan

Batman #33 (DC) With sumptuous desert vistas and sultry glances between the newly engaged Batman and Catwoman, Joelle Jones with the help of colorist Jordie Bellaire immediately puts her mark on the Batman title. If you liked Tom King’s work with Tim Seeley on Grayson, this comic will especially make you smile as Batman and Catwoman go undercover while the Robins past and present crack wise at home about their former or current mentor’s descent into darkness. Jones has a great command over BM_Cv33_dsbody language, and King has a killer sense of self-awareness about Batman’s relationship to his “family”. Batman #33 is worth a read to see Jason, Dick, Duke, and Damian’s reaction to Bruce’s engagement alone. Overall: 8.8 Recommendation: Buy

Ryan C

The Wild Storm #8 (DC/WildStorm)** An issue heavy on revelations that successfully eschews feeling like an “info dump.” Warren Ellis is definitely starting to tie his disparate threads into an increasingly-seamless whole, while Jon Davis-Hunt continues to just plain kill it on art. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Batman: The Drowned #1 (DC)** More dull “What If—?” re-imaginings of Batman, this time with a thoroughly mediocre Batman/Aquaman mash-up script from Mr. Assembly-Line himself, Dan Abnett, and thoroughly uninspired, “New 52”- esque art from Philip Tan and Tyler Kirkham. Four dollars of your money and 15 minutes of your time that you’ll never get back. Overall: 1 Recommendation: Pass

Batman #33 (DC)** Lavish and sumptuous art from Joelle Jones that oozes atmosphere from the page is almost enough — almost — to make you overlook yet another lackluster Tom King script. The interaction between Robins then and now (and hey, we’ve got a Duke Thomas sighting!) is fun, but the Bat/Cat relationship still reads as stiff and emotionless, and the story is clearly “de-compressed” to the point of feeling hopelessly padded. Shooting a horse at the outset is decidedly un-heroic, as well. Overall: 6 LUKE CAGE #166 1Recommendation: Read — or, more specifically, look at it. 

Luke Cage #166 (Marvel)  A reasonably topical and socially-conscious script from the always-reliable David F. Walker kicks off “Caged!,” a new arc that sees our hero back inside prison walls, but Guillermo Sanna’s art is sparse on detail and even downright lazy-looking in numerous panels. The storyline seems like it has the potential to be interesting, but if a $3.99 book doesn’t look good, I can’t in good conscience recommend buying it. Overall: 5 Recommendation: Pass

Shean

Black Panther Prelude #1 (Marvel) In anticipation for the upcoming movie, Marvel decided to release a Prelude, which usually takes place before the upcoming movie, thus one does a different take. The reader is actually taken back before Civil War. We are dropped in the middle of T’Challa struggling with his princely duties as T’Chaka is still alive in this book and his role as the Black Panther, his first meeting with Okoye, and some Wakandans are held hostage. By book’s end, one of the hostage takers has gotten their hands on some Vibranium bullets, and T’Challa might be outgunned. Overall: 9.4 Recommendation: Buy

Deadpool Vs Old Man Logan#1 (Marvel) In the debut issue of what looks to monopolize on Marvel’s most popular characters, we find our heroes in the middle of New York. Deadpool literally bumps into Old Man Logan, where a chase/fight ensues riddled with a ton of jokes. Logan is on his way to help a young mutant while Wade is trying to make money. By issue’s end, Sentinel Services shows up, and both heroes must fight their way out. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

 

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

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 (**).

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 10/14

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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.

Ryan C

FALCON_LEGACY_CVRThe Falcon #1 (Marvel)** – I didn’t think anything could be clumsier and more heavy-handed than Nick Spencer’s take on Sam Wilson, but new scribe Rodney Barnes is giving him a run for his money. Dour, humorless, and personality-free Sam? No thanks. I’m all for the timely and topical in my funnybooks, and generally agree with the points Barnes is making about economic disparity and lack of opportunity leading to the gang “crisis,” but I guess I prefer a subtle narrative to a heavy-handed polemic. Joshua Cassara’s art is fine, on the whole, if unexceptional, but I don’t see any particular reason being put forth to stick around for more of this. Overall: 4 Recommendation: Pass

 Action Comics #989 (DC)** – Dan Jurgens and Viktor Bogdanovic serve up another mediocre installment of “The Oz Effect” complete with the heavily-expository dialogue and dull “continuity porn” that we’re quickly becoming used to here. The art’s fine as far as it goes, but it doesn’t go very far : clunky pages laden with backstory followed by fight, followed by crisis that hits home, followed by more clunky pages laden with backstory. Rinse and repeat as necessary. This is assembly-line stuff all the way. Overall: 3 Recommendation: Pass

The Wild Storm: Michael Cray #1 (DC/WildStorm)** – The surprise hit of the week, Bryan Hill (who’s been killing it on “Postal”) comes on over to “The Big Two” and makes a splash with this story (apparently plotted by Warren Ellis) that sees his protagonist taking aim at the “Earth-WS” (or whatever it’s called) version of Green Arrow. I suppose the idea of analogues to characters we’re familiar with existing on this alternate Earth is kind of an obvious tack to take, but it really works here, probably because Hill spends near-equal time filling in the blanks of both Cray’s and Ollie Queen’s pasts. Nice, clean, crisp art from N. Steven Harris adds to the overall professionalism of the package, and if this creative team remains together for the duration, this should be a very memorable 12-issue run indeed. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Ragman #1 (DC)** – A confused, lackluster, and contrived “re-imagining” of a little-used but interesting character from Ray Fawkes and Inaki Miranda that sure looks cool, but reads like a lame and unnecessary “re-vamp” because, hey, that’s exactly — and all — MMIR_Cv3_open_order_varthat it is. Can’t think of any compelling reason to ride this one out for five more issues. Overall: 3 Recommendation: Pass

Logan

Mister Miracle #3 (DC) Tom King and Mitch Gerads make Orion one seriously disturbed individual in Mister Miracle #3 while also showing Scott pull off one of his signature escape routines in a classic, yet dream-like use of the grid layout that evokes Winsor McCay’s work. Mister Miracle is ostensibly a cosmic war comic, but King and Gerads continue to keep the focus on Scott’s emotions, fears, and his relationship with Big Barda. This, along with the delicious surrealism and formalism of Gerads’ art, is what makes this book one of DC’s most intriguing. Overall: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

Defenders #6 (Marvel) Brian Michael Bendis can still write the heck out of a street level superhero story, and his Jessica Jones is way more powerfully written in this book than her solo title. This issue is mostly table setting for the upcoming New York/Kingpin gang war, but action seems to be on the way with the appearances of characters like Wilson Fisk and Deadpool. Finally, Dave Marquez has added a grittier sensiblity to his wide screen, blockbuster art and really shines when Luke and Jessica get in the trenches and beat the crap out of Diamondback. Overall: 7.3 Recommendation: Read

Joe

Dark Nights: Metal #3 (DC) – What a fun and crazy event. It walks a razor-thin line between ridiculous and awesome. If you described this in an elevator pitch, or to your friends, it sounds absurd, and that’s because it is. Yet it is also the reason it is so good. It just works. I have to give props to Snyder and Capullo as a creative team, because they are proving once again they know how to write one hell of a fun, silly, and wonderful page turner. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Mister Miracle #3 (DC) – Tom King and Mitch Gerads continue to tell an interesting and dark tale of the possible mental breakdown of a classic Kirby character. Scott Free’s spiral is something that is hard to look away from, because I found myself rooting for him, and for Barda, and their desire for happiness together. They are soldiers, and Ragman-1-2017Generals, and they are being used. It’s an excellent series so far, with some shocking moments in just three issues. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Ragman #1 (DC) – An interesting character that isn’t new, but has a cool look and a horror vibe that meshes well with the Halloween season. There isn’t anything groundbreaking or spectacular here, and really I would describe it as “Okay”. If you are unfamiliar with the character, I would describe it as a cross between The Mummy and Venom. Overall: 5 Recommendation: Pass

 

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

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 (**).

Underrated: The Wolverine

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This is a column that focuses on something or some things from the comic book sphere of influence that may not get the credit and recognition it deserves. Whether that’s a list of comic book movies, ongoing comics, or a set of stories featuring a certain character. The columns may take the form of a bullet pointed list, or a slightly longer thinkpiece – there’s really no formula for this other than whether the things being covered are Underrated in some way. This week: The Wolverine.

thewolverineA little while ago on Underrated, I took a look at one of the most reviled movies in the X-Men Franchise, X-Men Origins: Wolverine. This week I wanted to take a look at the sequel to that movie because, ending aside, I think it’s a pretty good movie – no, really, take that cyborg thing out of the equation, and I’d give the movie a sold 8.5 or so out of 10. Obviously the cyborg drops the rating some, but I still really enjoyed the movie. And yes, I did see the movie recently.

The funny thing about The Wolverine, at least for me, is that I only recently realized that people weren’t quite as fond of it as I was. Whether that’s because I was so desperate for a great Wolverine movie that I overlooked a lot of the flaws when I first saw it, or that I just simply enjoyed it more than the folks who had a bone to pick with the film. Obviously, I watched this after having seen Logan, which was exactly the Wolverine movie that I, and many others, have always wanted. Does The Wolverine still hold up after the sequel, or is it really as average as people have been saying?

I genuinely don’t think it is, so allow me to give you a few reasons why.

  • The Opening Sequence
    In this case I’m talking about the entire sequence set in the Canadian wilderness. Hugh Jackman pulls off the broken former hero role incredibly well, and much like the prequel I could have happily watched an entire movie centered around a broken Logan on the outskirts of society. Wait.
  • It’s a great homage to Wolverine’s first solo series
    Look I know that the ending is butchered almost entirely by the mechanized Silver Samurai, but once you get beyond that The Wolverine is a brilliant homage and reinterpretation of the Claremont/Miller series from the 80’s with an updated twist. The hallmarks of the series are there, albeit in a slightly modified form in most cases, as the movie does its level best to pay tribute to that classic four issue miniseries.
  • The choreography
    With this movie having a softer rating than its sequel, you’d be forgiven for wanting more of the brutality from that movie to show up in The Wolverine, but considering the rating I think the choreography of the fight scenes is done very well – yes, a lot is left to your imagination regarding the results of said action, but this is still a movie about a violent mutant and you do get a sense of that… even if it is done in a PG13 way.
  • The story 
    Despite struggling at the final hurdle, the movie’s plot is actually better than a lot of popcorn action flicks. It’s certainly no Logan but it’s a better overall product than both of its immediate prequels.

the-Wolverine-2.jpg

Yes, the movie has its problems, especially with how it fits (or used to fit depending on who you’re talking to) into the X-Men movie franchise, and how it treats certain characters, but when you look at it as a standalone movie that follows one character after the events of X-Men: The Last Stand… it’s actually pretty good; like I said, I’ve always enjoyed this movie, and that’s why it’s the subject of this week’s Underrated. Plus, without this movie then we’d never have had James Mangold back for the sequel

Review: Iceman #6

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Writer Sina Grace, new series artist Robert Gill (Who ups the beefcake level considerably), and colorist Rachelle Rosenberg give Bobby Drake a fresh start on the West Coast in Iceman #6 as he reunites with his former Champions teammates: Angel, Hercules, Darkstar, and Ghost Rider (The Johnny Blaze version) in L.A. They start by sharing memories about their fallen friend Black Widow (Who was brutally fridged in Secret Empire by HYDRA Cap.), but the story gets much lighter. The banter between the short-lived superhero teammates is pretty fun, and best of all, Iceman finally gets to go on a date and do gay things with a cute guy out West.

Iceman #6 is a little short on action with the bad guy being a Hollywood effects wannabe/single mom, who decides to make her big mark by building a Sentinel and wrecking the city for some reason or another. Her motivation is pretty weak, and she’s basically just there to set up a superhero team-up in the next issue and set up a funny joke mixing Iceman up with the Silver Surfer. (Because they both wear trunks and nothing else sometimes, I guess.) But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Grace and Gill spend most of the issue establishing the bond between the once and future Champions and having Bobby flirt, dance, and yes, even make out with a guy he meets while waiting in line for a new pair of cool shoes. Judah uses even more ,and it’s nice to see someone finally show Bobby the ropes of being an out gay man with the painful coming out to his parents arc out of the way.

He does doing anything crazy or innovative with panel layouts, but Robert Gill brings a real energy and sexiness to his artwork in Iceman #6. My main problem with his art is that his civilian designs for Johnny Blaze and Angel are a little too similar, and I had to use context/comics backstory clues to realize that Bobby and Warren were having a heart to heart on the Hollywood sign, not Iceman and Ghost Rider. However, he more than redeems himself in the sequence where Bobby and Judah cut a rug on the dance floor that has a swirling energy and a blue from Rachelle Rosenberg that is part romantic, part “in da club”. Gill uses a couple inset panels to show off Bobby and Judah’s moves and flirting before zooming out for a big damn Hollywood kiss. He captures the fashion, fun, and friendship of my favorite gay bars and clubs, and some highlights are Hercules’ deep V and Ghost Rider trying to find parking for his bike next to some leather daddies. Grace’s writing digs into a nice vein of awkwardness, self-realization, and adrenaline that I definitely felt the first time I kissed a man  Yay for stubble on cheeks!

With the return of the Champions combined with Bobby going on its first date, Iceman #6 hits a nice sweet spot between Bronze Age era nostalgia and modern slice of life. Sina Grace writes the interactions between Bobby and the Champions like a college reunion (He even studied accounting in grad school during the original series.) with the memories of the past being the main conversation topic except for when he chats with Angel, who is like the good college friend you’ve stayed in touch with over the years. It’s also nice to see him go on a date and use his superhero buddies to impress his date while Robert Gill’s art is definitely more aesthetically pleasing than some of the previous visuals on Iceman.

Finally, the Iceman smooching in this issue is a great belated National Boyfriend Day present.

 Story: Sina Grace Art: Robert Gill Colors: Rachelle Rosenberg
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Marvel Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 9/30

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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.

 

Patrick

BitchPlanetTF_04-1Bitch Planet Triple Feature #4 (Image)** – This is how you do a spinoff series. First: “Life of a Sportsman” by Marc Deschamps and Mindy Lee goes into the toxic patriarchy of Megaton, with a story (and commentators) that are depressingly familiar to any pro sports fan (I’m thinking especially of Hockey Night in Canada’s Ron & Don). Sara Woolley hits us with “Bodymods,” which takes an extreme situation and renders it even more gross via the banality of the dialogue, Finally, Vita Ayala & Rossi Gifford present “To Be Free…” where a master thief breaks into the Archive of Corruptive Materials. Good stuff all around. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Big Trouble in Little China: Old Man Jack #1 (Boom!)** – I’m always happy to see a new Jack Burton series, and this one is super fun. Basically: ten years ago Jack accidentally helped bring about the apocalypse. As a reward, he was given his very own retirement spot in Florida behind a wall of fire, where he continues to monologue into his CB – which is no longer attached to anything. A call for help comes from a self-described Very Attractive Woman, and he springs back into action. Things don’t go quite as hoped for (for Jack) but pretty much as expected (by me). John Carpenter & Anthony Burch deliver a fun script that doesn’t mess around, and Jorge Corona’s art is energetic and just cartoony enough without scrimping on detail. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Ryan C

 

Black-Panther-18-2017Black Panther #18 (Marvel)** – I think it’s time I just admitted it to myself : this thing isn’t going to get any better. My respect for Ta-Nehisi Coates has kept me reading this book long after most folks have apparently left the building (sales started huge, followed by a standard attrition period, but lately they’ve been absolutely nose-diving), but as flawed as “A Nation Under Our Feet” was, at least there were some interesting, if overwrought, ideas at its core —the second major storyline, though, “Avengers Of The New World,” is just completely uninspired drivel. Coates seems to have made the quantum leap from struggling to find his footing in a new medium to bored veteran going through the motions without ever passing through the “solid pro storyteller” phase, and the once-reliable Chris Sprouse is turning out the worst work of his career on pencils here, as well (with Karl Story’s lackluster inks not helping matters), while back-half-of-the-book artist Wilfredo Torres’ stuff is just straight-up embarrassing. In theory, an issue that functions as a lead-in to the long-awaited resuming of hostilities between T’Challa and Klaw should at least be interesting, but in practice this issue is just a frigging drag. It took a year and a half for me to finally get it through my thick skull that this series isn’t ever going improve, but finally got the message. I’m out. Overall: 1 Recommendation: Pass

Action Comics #988 (DC)** – The second part of “The Oz Effect” is as listless as the first, with a rote and workmanlike recap of how Jor-El survived Krypton’s destruction taking up pretty much the entire issue and a big sign reading “Pure Set-Up For ‘Doomsday Clock’ And Nothing More” hanging over the proceedings. Ryan Sook’s art is okay, although nowhere near his usual standard, and Dan Jurgens’ script is a competent enough hawkeye generationsexecution of editorial dictates, but that’s about it. Overall: 3.5 Recommendation: Pass

Detective Comics #965 (DC)** – While we’re on the subject of Mr. Oz/Jor-El and “Doomsday Clock” lead-ins, that’s really all that’s happening in part one of “A Lonely Place Of Living,” as well. James Tynion IV hashes out a re-telling of Tim Drake’s life, and the art team of Eddy Barrows and Eber Ferreira, who did such stellar work on “Martian Manhunter,” cranks out one mediocre page after another here. Really uninspired stuff all around. Overall: 3 Recommendation: Pass

Kamandi Challenge #9 (DC)** – Yeah, Tom King’s script for this issue is over-stylized and literally begging to be noticed, but it’s still an effective and harrowing portrayal of captivity and uncertainty, and the glorious black-and-white art from Kevin Eastman (!) and Freddie Williams II is the most visually interesting stuff you’re likely to see in a “Big Two” comic this year. I was having (yet another) “Why do I even bother with Marvel and DC anymore?,” and this comic reminded of why I do. Borderline-magical stuff, this is. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Shean

Generations: Hawkeye and Hawkeye #1 (Marvel)** – In what is probably the most “Back to the Future” installment of the Generations series, Kate gets sent back in time to when Clint wore the old school pink and blue suit. In what plays out much like the classic movie, Battle Royale, but with superheroes and supeevillains,Kate and Clinton face of a rogues gallery including his former mentor, Swordsman. The best part of the book is Kate’s thoughts of certain people and events, knowing what she knows, which is always hilarious. By book’s end, Clint finds out who’s been pulling the strings in this game, but to everyone’s surprise, Clint nor Kate are the ones who serve the perpetrator justice.
Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

DTC_Cv965_dsLogan

Detective Comics #965 (DC) Tim Drake begins his escape from the prison of Mr. Oz, who is keeping him in prison because he’s intelligent (?). Oz’s motivation isn’t the clearest, but James Tynion and Eddy Barrows successfully make an argument for the importance of Tim Drake to the DCU and by extension, Robin to Batman. It’s another example of how Rebirth is restoring the relationships of the DCU, and I love the snapshot style layouts that Barrows uses. Plus two of the smartest characters in the DCU pulling a prison break should be fun. Overall: 7.7 Recommendation: Read

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

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 (**).

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 9/23

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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.

 

Ryan C

ViolentLove_08-1Violent Love #8 (Image)** – Frank J. Barbiere and Victor Santos continue to quietly toil away on the best book almost nobody reads, and ya know what? It’s their loss for passing on it. Our two protagonists finally “hook up” in this issue, and it’s well worth the wait as Santos proves that the only thing he’s better at drawing than noir-esque violence is — noir-esque love, hence the title. Some double-dealings are brought to light, as well, all delivered with a heavy (and awesome) sheen of ’70s grindhouse low-fi panache. The backup strip by Ryan Ferrier and Jamie Jones also continues to impress. Overall: 8.5. Recommendation: Buy

Batman #31 (DC)** – So, now we know what all that build-up surrounding Kite Man was for — he’s a convenient plot device that we had to give a shit about first in order for the timing gimmick he’s put to use as to have any impact. Guess what? It still doesn’t — because telling a long-form storyline through a series of disconnected vignettes just plain doesn’t work. Bless Mikel Janin for still clearly giving his all on art, but man, Tom King just straight-up doesn’t know what he’s doing with this book. Overall: 3. Recommendation: Pass. I purchased my copy because I clearly never learn.

unholy grail 3.jpgUnholy Grail #3 (Aftershock)** – If you’re a sucker for Arthurian lore, as I admit I am, this series pretty much has it all — but man, if you’re unfamiliar with the “source material” (a term I will always hate), I can only imagine how confusing this all would be at this point, because Cullen Bunn’s script pre-supposes fairly solid knowledge of the subject and the heavily-compressed timeline more re-interprets events than it does actually explore them. The whole Guinevere/Lancelot tryst takes center stage this time out, with an intriguing new origin for Morgana LeFay rising from it, and Mirko Colak’s art? Hey, it’s just plain gorgeous. DC needs to put these two on their next re-launch of “The Demon” fast. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

The Unsound #4 (Boom! Studios)** – Speaking of Cullen Bunn, this “haunted insane asylum” mini-series is getting pretty damn trippy, and this time out we’re treated to a group therapy session from hell — or a neighboring nether-realm of some sort — that brings to light some genuinely creepy shit and leads to another pretty solid cliffhanger. Jack T. Cole’s art is the real star of the book, though, and the fact he’s not cut in on the copyright action for this title is a real crock of shit because he’s the best reason to be buying the comic — and buy it you should. Overall: 8. Recommendation: Whoops, my bad, I already gave that part away.

Shean

defenders 5.jpgDefenders #5 (Marvel) We catch up with our heroes shortly after they battle and capture Diamondback, which leaves Danny Rand hurt. On the way to jail,he is locked up with the Punisher,where a short skirmish takes place in the paddy wagon, where he escapes.The gang splits up scouring the city to find him. The reader finally sees he lands at Black Cat’s lair,where he unloads a striking betrayal. Overall: 9.4 Recommendation: Buy

Luke Cage #5 (Marvel) What started out as way to pay tribute to someone who he thought was a mentor becomes a fact finding mission and an unlikely reunion. As Luke finds out his mentor is not dead and has steadily experimented on dozens of others. We catch up with him and KevLar who has just killed all his friends as he just realized they were turning them into weapons. By issue’s end, everything comes full circle, justice gets served but not everyone gets out of it clear. Overall: 8.9 Recommendation: Buy

Generations: Captain Marvel and Ms. Marvel #1 (Marvel) Another bending of time and space allows Ms Marvel to enter the same Universe as Captain Marvel. She enters vintage Metropolis where Carolina Danvers works for the Daily Planet and Khamala is am intern. The step back in time is not without is troubles, as Nightscream, a Shiar who has a vendetta with Danvers. By issue’s end, a final skirmish ensues between the three,but both Marvels end victorious. Overall: 9.3 Recommendation: Buy

 

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

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 (**).

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 9/16

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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

PESTILENCE_04Old Man Logan #28 (Marvel)** The last Marvel comic on my pull list these days, and were it not for a very sentimental attachment to Wolverine I’d have likely dropped it awhile back for no other reason than I’ve largely stopped reading Marvel. That said, I’m still really enjoying this series, and seeing Old Man Logan back with Hawkeye again as they confront the Hulk Gang is a nostalgic throwback for the reader (and possibly Logan). Ultimately, a really solid book – and one I don’t regret picking up in the least. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Pestilence #4 (Aftershock)** There’s something to be said about reading about zombies in the medieval times. Frank Tieri has always been hit or miss for me (though truthfully far more hit than miss), and this series one of the hits. The covers are always brilliantly well done and the interior art, to me at least, has an almost Mignola feel to it. If you want something a bit different from the spandex and capes of the Big Two then you could do a lot worse than this medieval zombie story. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Ryan C

Briggs Land: Lone Wolves #4 (Dark Horse)** – Brian Wood and guest artist extraordinaire Vanessa R. Del Rey (way to leave her name off the cover, Dark Horse) deliver a stunning stand-alone story about a teenage girl looking to get off “The Land” to have an abortion that depicts the topic with the intelligence and sensitivity that it deserves while eschewing any sign of preachiness. Highly skilled stuff, wonderfully illustrated, with no easy answers provided. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Harrow County #25 (Dark Horse)** – Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook celebrate a milestone issue in their rural horror series with a story that not only moves, but downright propels, the narrative forward into dizzyng new territory. I’ve been “on the harrow county 25.jpgfence” about this book for some time despite Crook’s utterly gorgeous art, but as of now, I’m “all in” again, no question. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Action Comics #987 (DC)** – Lenticularize me, baby! Or, ya know, don’t, since the first issue of the much-hyped “The Oz Effect” storyline is the very definition of comic book mediocrity. Viktor Bogdanovic’s art has a little bit more personality (and a little bit less technical proficiency) than most “Rebirth” stuff, but Dan Jurgens’ script is rote and predictable in the extreme, even if “Mr. Oz” doesn’t turn out to be exactly who you assumed he was. In addition, they seem to have laidall their cards on the table with their “big reveal” on the final page of this issue, and it’s hard to see where they go from here — as well as why I should care. Overall: 4 Recommendation: Pass

Mister Miracle #2 (DC)** – Tom King and Mitch Gerads settle things down a bit after their “Mulholland Drive”-esque first issue, but it’s still fairly obvious that all is not quite as it appears here. Orion is running the show on New Genesis now, Granny Goodness apparently ain’t so bad, and Barda doesn’t really get killed even though it looks like she does for a minute there. Certainly interesting stuff, but I’m not sure “dialing back” the high weirdness was the right call (hey, time will tell), and Gerads’ art, while certainly damn good for the most part, is so murky in the final two panels that it’s hard to discern what’s even going on in the big “cliffhanger” ending. Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Patrick

Mage: The Hero Denied #2 (Image)** – I’m up in the air over this one, but I think so is Kevin. On the one hand, he likes his quiet family life, so he’s trying to minimize the threats he’s facing. On the other, he has to take the necessary steps to protect his family. I think that it’s just that Matt Wagner hasn’t seemed to make up his mind yet about what MageTheHeroDenied_02-1Kevin wants most and what he’s prepared to do to get it, so the story is passive and reactive. There are just enough interesting hooks to keep me going, though: I love Mags’ magic crockpot, for instance, and Kevin’s relationship with his son is complex and real. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Kill Or Be Killed #12 (Image)** – This issue is strictly prosaic and procedural, which isn’t a bad thing necessarily, coming from Ed Brubaker. Dylan starts hitting back at the Russians, and he and Kira inch closer. But Sean Phillips’ portrayal of Dylan struck me: he looks ten years older and seriously haunted, especially sitting next to Kira at the movies. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy.

Time & Vine #3 (IDW)** – The mystery – that of Megan’s Aunt Alice – kind of… meanders along here. Three issues in, I’m starting to wonder what this story is really about and what’s driving it. The historical vignettes are interesting – we go back to 1863 and a meeting of the Emancipation Society of New York to talk about slavery, suffrage, and economics – but I’m starting to lose the emotional connection. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Pass

Christopher

Dept H #18 (Dark Horse) Writer and Artist: Matt Kindt Just when you thought things couldn’t get worse, they give you a view of the surface world as a tease. Showing how they have reacted to the H-virus, as it spreads. As what may be their last hope for surfacing falls short. This series continues to draw me, as it progresses. Hopefully, with only two issues scheduled to remain after this, we will be shown how things end. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

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

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 (**).

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