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Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 11/9/11

Posted on November 13, 2011 by Brett

A pretty good stack of books this week. Find out what’s worth it below.

Avenging Spider-Man #1 – When a comic has me laughing out loud multiple times that’s a good sign. The comic has energy, fun and excitement dripping out of it’s pages. The writing by Zeb Wells is perfect with some amazing one-liners and the art by Joe Madureira is as fantastic as I’d expect. I can’t wait for the second issue. Is all of Spider-Man this fun?

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Batgirl #3 – Everyone is worried about Barbara Gordon. She’s recovering you know… That fact and that she’s experienced a miracle is beat over our head throughout this issue as she attempts to diffuse a bomb, chats with her dad and goes toe to toe in a flirtatious fight with Nightwing. Some lines in this comic just make me even more confused about the new 52 timeline. Just best to ignore all of that. The comic isn’t bad and is quite entertaining, it’s just the repeated mentioning of some simple facts in Babs life that keep being repeated each issue, that feels old already.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Batman and Robin #3 – The first three issues really seem to be about Damian and the fine line he walks between vigilante who has some sort of moral code and a full on murderer. The villain is the represent that latter side. A “good guy” who brings the ultimate justice to criminals. Damian is caught between that and Batman’s style and interesting intro story. This issue is good continuing to build on what’s been one of the better comics of the new 52.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Battle Scars #1 – An attempt to introduce a new character post Fear Itself it would seem. I’ll read it, but so far not too impressed.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Batwoman #3 – The art is amazing, absolutely stunning. The layouts just make you question the visual aspect of comic book story telling and show what can be done. The story though is a mixed bag. There’s a lot I like here, like Kate Kane’s personal life and her juggling that with being Batwoman but the Weeping Woman thing confounds me.

Story: 7 Art: 9.5 Overall: 7.5

Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #525 – The other pulp comic Marvel is doing. Black Panther now faces the Kingpin who is making a move on Wakanda and has the Hand to help him. The story is interesting, art great as usual. The series is one that deserves an audience as it’s pretty high quality and entertaining.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Fear Itself #7.2 – Wait, what the hell happened? We get a new God of Thunder, which everyone just seems to accept but hoisting beers and he seems to have no issues with his fellow Avengers and then is that Don Blake? I’m so confused. Then there’s the ending which we could all predict. Sigh….

Story: 6.75 Art: 9 Overall: 7

Green Lantern #3 – Um, that was a bit unexpected. Jordan has to come to grips with his new role and Sinestro’s as well. The two have to team up too, which makes it all a bit more complicated. All the while it seems the Guardians are plotting on what to do next. There’s some hints we’ll be seeing some fireworks soon and that ending definitely caught me off guard.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Huntress #2 – Pretty similar to the first issue but Huntress now has a better idea as to who the first target should be, but clearly there’s someone higher or something bigger going on. The art is great and story is solid, I just wonder if it really needs to be six issues and whether it might read better as a trade or graphic novel. Still, a strong female lead, great story and art, it’s a comic that’s a buy.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Jennifer Blood #6 – This is a very interesting series. Jennifer has got her revenge and lays it out there for the final victim. After all her talk, you’re left to think. Is she as bad as they are? Is she somehow more perverse due to her duality? Is she a new type of feminist? It’s a series I’d love to debate folks about. A female lead with twisted violence and sexuality that only Garth Ennis can do.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Journey Into Mystery #631 – An interesting issue where Loki has to deal with the new status-quo of Asgard. It’s all about setting up the future and the pseudo Shakespearean speak bothers me still, but the character of Loki is back to his roots and very entertaining. This is really for the hardcore Thor fans.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Magneto: Not a Hero #1 – A lot I like, especially the interaction between Cyclops, Magneto, Captain America and Iron Man but the second half teeters a bit diving into X-Men history I’m a bit fuzzy on. It’s not quite as new reader friendly as I’d hope, but still entertaining.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

The New Avengers #18 – Osborn is back and he’s forming his own group of Avengers again. This issue focuses on that as well as why A.I.M., Hydra, some Hand and H.A.M.M.E.R. are all coming behind his leadership. Something awesome is brewing here, you can just tell.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Point One – Hmmm, there’s a lot here and about half of it gets me interested, but that’s for stuff I’d probably buy anyways. Also, a lot of the stories teased here have been set up in other series. It’s also probably not quite enough to suck in and get a new reader interested. But, it’s interesting for the most part. I have to give Marvel props for trying, but this comes up short overall.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7

Rachel Rising #3 – It’s a horror comic that’s creepy more than anything. There’s a lot here that’s disturbing and still a mystery as to exactly what’s going on, but I’m hooked. It’s all interesting and different, definitely a comic I look forward to each month to see how it’d unfold.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Resurrection Man #3 – We get a bit better of a sense as to what’s going on here and the mystery deepens really. Isn’t the “caught between heaven and hell” schtick more of a John Constatine thing? No matter, the comic is entertaining as it explains a lot of what’s going on, but the ending makes me feel like I missed something. I’m sure for long time DC fans it’s a cool moment but for me, I shouldn’t have to go to wikipedia to get the back story after the relaunch.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Suicide Squad #3 – The issue is a bit choppy in the story telling as it just back and forth in time though that’s not totally clear. There’s an essence of time with the series that could be played up a lot better, but overall it seems to just be getting it’s footing and it’s pretty entertaining.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Superboy #3 – Well, I think that answers who Red really is. Superboy is out and discovering what the real world is like. That’s interesting, but there’s not enough of it. We also learn a bit about who this Superboy really is, also interesting stuff. Overall though, we’re still in the set up phase and the verdict is still out on the series overall.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #4 – Bendis has put together a comic that plays off nicely on what’s coming before creating a connected transition that doesn’t feel forced but a natural passing of the torch. The story is still in the whole discovering powers phase but Miles and his friends seem interesting and there’s a sense of fun that flows off the page. I’ve never been a big fan of the Ultimate universe, but I’m a fan of this newly rebooted series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Uncanny X-Force #17 – Wow. The issue is impressive and is filled with moments that make me say holy shit. I have no idea what to expect and what’s going to happen next. For a series to keep my on my toes just shoes how top notch it is. So far everything has been on the table and so much being pulled out of so many different places. The Dark Angel Saga is going to go down as one of the best “X” arcs ever.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Wolverine #18 – A nice mix of action and humor as Logan and friends take on the Jade Claw. An entertaining issue that’s leading the series away from the depressing morose plot it’s had for way too long.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

X-Men: Legacy #258 – Why is there a moment where I can see the writer pausing to figure out how to end this arc and get everyone home? The X-Men save the day and get folks back to Earth, shocker. It’s really all to set up what happens next.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 10/19/11

Posted on October 29, 2011 by Brett

A week behind in comics, but I’ll be caught up with reviews this weekend. What stands out? What’s not worth the read? Find out below!

The Avengers #18 – The battle is over and Avengers Tower has fallen, so everyone has gathered in the mansion. There’s also a back story about a former S.H.I.E.L.D. agent. That’s all that really happens. The cover asks who will be a part of the Avengers, and it’s not answered in this issue.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7

Batman #2 – A pretty solid second issue. There’s a nice mystery here and we still don’t quite know who or what the villain is. Unfortunately, an interesting character is done away with and part of the comic stretches belief a bit, but an entertaining comic.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

The Bionic Man #3 – Steve Austin is a broken man and an offer is made to him that’ll change his life. But, the world thinks he’s dead and he wishes he was. The series isn’t as straight as the original and seems that it will focus a bit on a man whose life is shattered and has to deal with not being the man he once was.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Captain Atom #2 – This second issue gives us a bit of the origin for Captain Atom and we learn a little bit more about his powers. I like how the issue slows it down a bit having the character taking on a very real opponent instead of some grand villain. It’s a quieter issue for the series and I think it actually improves upon the first.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

DC Universe Presents #2 – The second issue sees Deadman attempting to figure out what the hell is going on and what his mission is. Not quite as good as the first issue and I can’t say I was a big fan of the denizens of the club he visits, but I like the overall direction of the comic. An interesting take on the character and fun to see a non-superhero comic be a part of DC’s new 52.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Fables #110 – The debate as to who will be the next North Wind continues as the other three winds plot about how to handle the situation. Meanwhile a revolution is brewing in Oz as more and more allies join the team. The series has a lot going on, and I can’t help but feel what’s going on in Oz isn’t similar to things we’ve seen before. Still, an excellent series.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Fear Itself #7 – The final issue of the main story would work much better as an animated movie with such action, but it’s the numerous endings that steals any emotional impact at all. This isn’t really an ending at all, but the beginning of what comes next. For such an event, it feels hollow in a way as it just leads into an even longer story. No real conclusion steals any impact that might have been had.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7

Fear Itself: The Fearless #1 – The first of the series to spin out of Fear Itself picks up right where the event ended with the decision as to what to do with the hammers being made, others would disagree or try to gain them. Interestingly enough, this first issue is better than the series it spun out of.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Fear Itself: The Homefront #7 – Generally forgettable, the final pages to Speedball’s story is ok, and the last story is actually pretty decent, but overall this miniseries, like so many tied into Fear Itself, wasn’t a must read and added little to the overall storyline.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Fear Itself: Youth in Revolt #6 – That last little bit with Prodigy was awesome, really funny. The rest of the comic, especially Thor Girl’s bit, what the hell!? Especially Thor Girl’s part! I’m just totally confused.

Story: 6 Art: 7.75 Overall: 6.25

Green Lantern Corps. #2 – Looks like Guy and his team have bumped up against a bunch of other folks who use willpower. The story is pretty crazy and entertaining and that ending was really solid. It seems quite a few of the DC revamp second issues haven’t lived up to the first, but this one remains solid.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Invincible Iron Man #509 – The back story of how the heroes got their weapons from Odin ends here and that part is forgettable. What’s great is Tony struggling with his drinking and what happens to Pepper. Not as solid as past issues, but the story works, even if it’s tied into Fear Itself and that’s primarily due to it’s focus on the human aspect of it all.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Journey Into Mystery #629 – The first half of the story I wasn’t the biggest fan of but the end where Loki discusses what he’s done and what the reaction might be is fantastic. I can’t say I’ve gushed over the series, but I’ve really appreciated it’s style and what it’s doing. Now that it no longer has to deal with Fear Itself, I’m expecting some big things.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Justice League #2 – The team is still coming together and I can’t say the character portrayals is all that good. Superman is still a dick and Batman like a dad, but Green Lantern and The Flash have a nice thing going and hints there’s been interaction before. The story slowly is revealed and it’s ok. If this is the lynchpin of the new DCU, it still needs some help.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Nightwing #2 – Nightwing/Dick Grayson seems to be getting back to his roots with the circus in this series. It’s nice to see him getting pulled back to that and that makes him unique from Batman. I’m not quite totally sure where the series is going, but so far so good. I really like Dick being the playboy he should be, there’s something fun about his version of it, like you get a sense he’s having fun versus Bruce’s brooding. Not great, but an entertaining second issue.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Superboy #2 – An interesting second issue, what might keep me going with the series is it’s tie in with the Teen Titans. I really like Superboy’s attitude and what they’re setting the character up as, but the rest is meh. I feel like I’ve seen it before. It’s all interesting, and the question of where it’s going may keep me around, but none of it is totally original or stands out.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Supergirl #2 – We learn Kara/Supergirl’s connection to Superman, but not the why she’s now on Earth. I’m digging the story. Her reaction seems natural and there’s a slow progression I dig. This is a series I’ll be sticking with for a bit I think, cause I really like what I’ve read so far.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Superior #7 – Become a super hero at the cost of your soul, that’s all one handicapped kid has to do to become god-like. This second to last issue is utterly fantastic in the type of series Mark Millar should constantly be writing. There’s a few holy shit moments and some great personal ones as well. Beyond top notch.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5

Ultimate Comics Hawkeye #3 – Hawkeye and his team assault the two cities. There’s some cool moments, but this third issue isn’t quite as tight as the first two. Still, entertaining.

Story: 7.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Uncanny X-Men #544 – A pretty solid look back at the X-Men with some great interaction and discussions between various folks. There’s also a lot of hints as to what’s to come as we see the next villain the X-Men will face. A bitter sweet end.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Wolverine #17 – Ok, now this is the type of Wolverine story I like. Before heading back East, there’s still some things Wolverine needs to take care of in Chinatown. A great mix of humor, action and a touch of heart. After a few arcs of Wolvie I haven’t enjoyed, it seems we’re getting something I can finally get behind.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Wonder Woman #2 – We’re given a story about Wonder Woman’s origin, but I’m not convinced that’s the whole story. Overall, a really entertaining second issue that has this series standing out as one of the best of the DC relaunch. Great art and a solid story.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Factor #226 – The team is back in all of their entertaining form. Great banter and interaction and some things I wasn’t expecting. After a few issues that seemed very off in tone the team is back on track it’d seem.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Young Justice Season 1 Volume 2, Own it on DVD October 25

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Brett

The second volume of the first season of Young Justice hits shelves and you can own it on DVD October 25 from Warner Bros.

In Young Justice, being a teenager means proving yourself over and over—to peers, parents, teachers, mentors and, ultimately, to yourself. But what if you’re not just a normal teenager? What if you’re a teenage super hero? Are you ready to join the ranks of the great heroes and prove you’re worthy of the Justice League? That’s exactly what the members of Young Justice—Robin, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Superboy, Miss Martian and Artemis—will found out, whether they have what it takes to be a proven hero. Based upon characters from DC Comics.

I’ve never seen an episode of the cartoon series myself, so really looking forward to sitting down and check it out!

52 Reviews, Part 2

Posted on September 22, 2011 by

So, for the fun of it, I’m going to be collecting all 52 DC #1 issues. And I’m going to review them all. Keep in mind, though, that I’m generally a Marvel fan and, while I’m working may way through DC’s recent big events, I’m only up through the middle of Countdown and I haven’t read any of DC’s non-event comics in a long time, so I’m coming at these stories with a bit of a disadvantage in terms of chronology and character knowledge. Since DC is certainly trying to attract new readers, though, this makes me come at them with a perspective similar to their hypothetical new fans…

Batman and Robin #1 (DC) – This one starts and ends with heavy action and has a good amount of character development in between. It all works. I’m in.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Batwoman #1 (DC) – I’m relatively new to the character of Kate Kane, but I have to say I like what I see so far. The creative team on this one appears to be top-notch and this is a comic I’ll definitely keep reading.

Story: 9 Art: 10 Overall: 9.5

Deathstroke #1 (DC) – I’m pretty conflicted about this one. It looks great and the story does a good job of establishing the horrible person that Deathstroke is while also showing that he’s a total badass. But there aren’t any characters here I want to root for (well, at least not by the last page) and I’m not enough of a fan of the character to follow him along as bad as he is here. The comic is well-done, it’s just not my type of thing. I’ll probably read issue #2, though, because of the quality of this issue.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Demon Knights #1 (DC) – I’m really not a fan of the fantasy premise behind this one. It’s not a bad premise, it’s just not one I want to read a lot of. I won’t read any more of this series, but it’s not because of a lack of quality.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #1 (DC) – I was totally unprepared for how much I liked this story. It is totally not at all the type of thing I would have expected to like and yet it was one of my favorite reads of week 2 of the New 52. It doesn’t break any new ground and it is incredibly similar to the recent Frankencastle run in Punisher or Hellboy, but the execution is so good, it’s a great comic. I’m definitely coming back for more.

Story: 9 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.25

Green Lantern #1 (DC) – There is a reason why Geoff Johns is where he is today and this issue is a great example of his success. The story is entertaining, including action, intrigue and humor in a perfect balance. You have compelling characters and plotlines that require the reader to tune in next month, which I will definitely do.

Story: 9.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Grifter #1 (DC) – Not knowing anything about this character before this issue, I’m not sure what the point is. I don’t particularly like him after reading this comic and nothing here made me interested in finding out more.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Legion Lost #1 (DC) – This comic does a good job of juggling a big cast without making them all clones and while getting across a story that is intriguing. I’m not completely sold on the comic or the concept, and I don’t like the cartoonish art much, but I’m at least coming back for the next few issues.

Story: 8.5 Art: 6 Overall: 7.5

Mr. Terrific #1 (DC) – I had high hopes for this book, having recently discovered the character and liking him quite a bit, but I felt this was a bit of a letdown. The art wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t great, despite some great sequences. The story also starts out solid before going off on a strange tangent at the end that didn’t seem to fit. Some of the things going on were a bit confusing, too. Hopefully future issues will perfect it. I’ll hang around to find out.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Red Lanterns #1 (DC) – This is my first time reading any of the extended Laterns material and I’m going to say that it grabbed me. The art is at times brilliant and the story maintained a good balance of exposition and action that I liked a lot. It had some ridiculous moments, most notably with a cat, but I can let that slide.

Story: 8 Art: 9 Overall: 8.5

Resurrection Man #1 (DC) – Not a great comic, this one was just good enough that I’ll check out #2, but I’m skeptical. The art was pretty weak in places and I just didn’t get enough from the story that’d hook me. The premise is one I like though, so I might hang around to see where it goes.

Story: 7.5 Art: 6.5 Overall: 7

Suicide Squad #1 (DC) – Reading this issue as a noob, I loved it. The villains and the scenario were great, the horror of it was engrossing, the characters were varied and I wanted to know more about them. It was both violent and funny and the ending was a nice little shocker. I’ve never heard of Amanda Waller before, though, and was unfamiliar with the character. It seems she used to be a much larger and more reserved woman and she’s been slimmed down and sexualized. That’s a shame because that one arbitrary panel brings down an otherwise excellent issue.

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.5

Superboy #1 (DC) – Another comic I really like. This is very different than your usual Superman comics. You don’t really know who is good or bad or what they are capable and it’s very difficult to predict what is going to happen next. That’s all great and on top of that, you get some very good art.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Reviews

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 9/14/11

Posted on September 18, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books this week with DC still releasing their number one books. What’s worth it? What should be skipped? Find out below!

Alpha Flight #4 – The team is on the run from the government who has been taken over through an overly complex plan. There’s a lot I like about the series, but also so much that just seems blah. Overall it’s getting much better, but there’s definitely some things strange things that don’t jive. The brutality of one particular character just doesn’t fit in with the relative niceness of Alpha Flight.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #4 – It’s the second to last issue of this series that delves into the myths of the vampires. It adds a bit to the world and the story is really entertaining, but as usual you have to question why the bad guys just don’t kill the good guys right away. That’s about the only flaw I find, for what’s turned out to be a hell of a limited series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Batman and Robin #1 – The good here is Damian’s depiction. The mysterious bad guy also has me intrigued. The bad is the story itself which just seems silly to me. Also, how old is Batman supposed to be in the DC revamp/reboot/relaunch? If Damian is still around, he obviously can’t be younger than he was in the previous world. I’m a bit confused about that part.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Batwoman #1 – A beautiful comic book, the art alone is enough to get me to come back for more. The story on the other hand is a bit week, but still intriguing enough to get me to overlook it. What is very strong, like the art is the characterization. The various characters in the comic are well written and there’s some great female leads. It’s been a long wait for this first issue, and while I can’t say it blew me away, I’ll definitely be back for the second issue.

Story: 7.75 Art: 9 Overall: 8

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #523 – Out of all of the Fear Itself tie-ins this one is the best, though it’s competition isn’t that great. As a whole though, I really like the American Panther storyline. There was a solid ending to it, and a great mystery left at the end that seems like it’ll lead to something more interesting going forward. With the next issue, it’ll get a new subtitle, the series is quality and a definite recommendation to make a monthly read.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #4 – Wow, that was one hell of an ending. This is a crime story of the best caliber. Brubaker’s story telling seems to get better and better and this one’s ending is just amazing. Another fantastic volume in the best noir on the market. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Daken: Dark Wolverine #14 – What the hell did I read. The heat part is great as usual, but the art seems to have taken a dip and it won’t be until next issue that’ll I’ll truly understand what’s going on. This is one part of a bigger story and by itself the issue doesn’t make too much sense or keep my interest. Hopefully the next issue will do it some justice as the “set up” issue.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Daredevil #3 – Some great pulp fun as Daredevil fights Klaw and helps a man in court. The entertaining ending is a nice end cap for the first story arc and this issue sets up a bigger bad guy that’s only hinted at. The action is good and there’s some great writing in the issue. Mark Waid has returned Daredevil to his roots and it’s fantastic so far.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Deadpool #43 – Deadpool is on the loose as he’s escaped from the mental institution, though how he’s done that isn’t really explained very well. There’s also some other plot points that seem to have been dropped. The issue is entertaining enough, but falls into the campy end of things way too much.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Deathstroke #1 – Wow, that was a hell of a start. The issue feels more A-Team than anything else, but then that ending throws you for a spin. Pretty impressive as it gives you a good idea as to who Deathstroke is and does it all in a self-contained issue. Really solid beginning.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Demon Knights #1 – I appreciate what DC is doing here, taking some of their characters and throwing them into a world similar to one you’d find in a D&D campaign. The story is ok, but I’m not really one for straight up fantasy. My concern that it stars Etrigan and his speaking habit was not founded as that seems to have gone away, which is odd, since that was something that made the character very unique. It’s not a bad comic, but can’t say I really look forward to the second issue.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Fear Itself #6 – There’s lots of dramatic moments and some big speeches in the second to last issue of Marvel’s disappointing summer event. There’s some great moments and a lot of characters manning up, but overall this feels like that “big moment” that’s a few issues too late for me to really care or save this event from smelling like a stinker.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Fear Itself: Hulk vs. Dracula #1 – Not quite sure what the point of this limited series is as it doesn’t add a whole lot so far to the overall event. Also, isn’t the Hulk fighting in a few other places and against a few other heroes? Fear Itself has been a mess of an event, and this is another example of that.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Fear Itself: The Monkey King – A decent enough issue, but again, it doesn’t add anything to the Fear Itself storyline. I’d of much rather seen a three issue limited series come out of this than this one-shot that’s not really needed. But, even though it doesn’t add anything to Fear Itself, it’s still a good comic and hopefully we see more of this character than this one-shot.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #1 – A Hellboy wannabe I figured this was what to expect of the series after seeing it’s Flashpoint tie-in. It’s not the story is is bad, I think Hellboy is better in every sense, so there’s nothing new or interesting to keep me coming back for more.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Green Lantern #1 – Sinestro has a green ring again and Hal Jordan must go back to a normal life. Just when you think there isn’t anything more creative Geoff Johns can do with Green Lantern, this comes along. A great new start that’s fresh and interesting. The series has had some issues of late, but this first issue breathes new life into the series and again has me excited.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Grifter #1 – Huh!? Where’s the Grifter I came to know and love from Wildcats? What is this crap?!

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

John Carter: A Princess of Mars #1 – With Roger Langridge’s name on the comic I had to pick it up knowing nothing about this beloved story. Can’t say I’ll be coming back for the second issue. It’s not Langridge’s fault, the story just doesn’t interest me at all.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Legion Lost #1 – Hmm, a lot is interesting here, but the story is too much tied up in mystery and the action too choppy to get me to want to come back for more. I was never a Legion fan before, and can’t say this series has done anything to get me to change my mind.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 6.75

Mister Terrific #1 – The beginning of the comic was interesting enough, but that ending made me not at all interested in the second issue. It was too abrupt and comes out of nowhere. There’s also the very blatant playing off that Mr. Terrific is a black hero and there’s event a rather stereotypical issue of his interest in a white woman. I’m sure the series will find it’s pace and feet after a bit, but I don’t think I’m sticking around for it.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Mystery Men #5 – A ho-hum ending to the series that attempts to mix real life events with a comic book and doesn’t pull it off too well. The series was ok, and probably will read better as a trade paperback, but the finale isn’t anything special.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

The New Avengers #16 – We get to see what Daredevil was up to during Fear Itself and the issue is actually really solid. I like the interview aspect of the issues and the story in this one is really good too. It’s Daredevil’s acceptance into the crew and it’ll be interesting to see how that goes considering his recent past.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Red Lanterns #1 – In short, this is DC’s version of Ghost Rider. It has potential, and I’ll stick around to see what that is, but the characters kind of started off as a one note gimmick and adding a bit to them will be a tough task. We’ll see how it all goes though, but so far it’s pretty decent.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Resurrection Man #1 – A lot I really liked here. I can’t say I know a lot about the character and this first issue gives you a hint about him. There’s enough here that will get me to come back. The issue though is it seems like I’ve seen this all before in a movie or television show. Heaven and hell after one man’s soul, it seems too familiar.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Suicide Squad #1 – So much I like and at the same time it makes me miss Secret Six. There’s so many costume changes that are so unnecessary too. Still, there’s more than enough to get me to come back for the next few issues and see where it goes from here.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Superboy #1 – More than enough here to get me to come back for the second issue. The story is interesting and unique enough to stand out from Superman and there’s enough mystery here with numerous characters to keep me intrigued. This might be the first “Supes” comic I get into.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Supreme Power #4 – Just one piece of a bigger puzzle. By itself the actions of folks makes me scratch my head, but this seems to be the end of the middle chapter of a three act play. Interesting, but it doesn’t blow me away as much as that first issue did.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #1 – An origin story that’d normally have taken an issue to get through looks like it’ll be spread out a bit. But there’s a lot here that makes Mile Morales stand out from Peter Parker. Bendis has made some interesting choices here and it’ll be interesting to see where he goes. I’ve never been an Ultimate Comics fan, but this relaunch of the line has gotten me very interested.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Uncanny X-Force #15 – The team is trying their best to take on Archangel and his new horsemen before they transform the world. Deathlok has also lost his shit in the process. The trio of Deadpool, Fantomex and Deathlok is a team I want more of. So wrong yet so right.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

The Unwritten #29 – The story of Wilson the the Tinker grows deeper and that ending kind of came out of nowhere. The story is s bit easier to understand but no less interesting. This is one of those sleeper series more people should be reading. It challenges you in every way. Solid as usual.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

X-Men: Legacy #255 – Magneto attempts to bring a peace between the two warring armies while Rogue takes over command of a familiar bunch. The story is really just a way to get Havok, Polaris and Rachel back into the fold, the stroy I could do without.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Around the Tubes

Posted on September 17, 2011 by Brett

The weekend is here! Yay! Also, did you hear? Graphic Policy Radio is now every Sunday, so make sure to tune in tomorrow. Until then, here’s the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

Bleeding Cool – The Man Who Stole Superman, Arrested [Update] – Bad guy caught, stolen items returned, and some good comes out of it all.

CBLDF – First Amendment Center Comments on Doonesbury Censorship – Freedom is allowing all speech, especially that which you disagree with, to occur.

Con Coverage:

Spandexless – SPX Pulls: The Three Paradoxes, Paul Hornschemeier

Publishers Weekly – ReedPop Debuts Pop Culture Summit at New York Comic Con

The Beat – NYCC 11: Saturday tickets 75% gone

CBR – New Era Brings Exclusive “Arkham City” Caps to NYCC

Spandexless – SPX Pulls: Eye of the Majestic Creature, L. Stein

Around the Tubes Reviews:

MTV Geek – Suicide Squad #1

CBR – Suicide Squad #1

Comicbook.com – Superboy #1

MTV Geek – New 52 Review: Batman and Robin, Deathstroke, Demon Knights, Red Lanterns, and Resurrection Man

Around the Tubes

Posted on September 15, 2011 by Brett

The weekend is so close and reports are already coming that DC comic’s new releases are selling out. There’s a lot of other quality books out too, so make sure to get to your store and pick up some new releases.

Around the Blogs:

Kotaku – Aaaand Harley Quinn’s Saucy Arkham Mo-Cap was Actually Done by a Dude … – Ha.

Kotaku – The New Ultimate Spider-Man Debuts Just in Time for Edge of Time – The costume looks pretty damn cool. Look forward to seeing what this looks like on my high-def TV.

Con Coverage:

Spandexless – SPX Pulls: Dresden Codak Primer, Aaron Diaz

Spandexless – SPX Pulls: Box Brown Roundup

Comicsgirl – Small Press Expo 2011 reviews: The Ladies!

Around the Tubes Reviews:

CBR – American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #4

MTV Geek – Green Lantern #1

CBR – Green Lantern #1

MTV Geek – Mister Terrific #1

Comics Alliance – Ultimate Comics Spider-Man’ #1

MTV Geek – Ultimate Comics Spider-Man’ #1

MTV Geek – Image Comics Reviews: ‘Severed,’ ‘Li’l Depressed Boy,’ ’27,’ and ‘Pigs’

Newsarama – NEW 52 NEWBIE Reviews: Non-Comics Readers on the DCnU

Bleeding Cool – Wednesday Comics Reviews: Batman and Robin, Batwoman, Deathstroke, Demon Knights, Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E., Green Lantern, Grifter, Legion Lost, Mister Terrific, Red Lanterns, Resurrection Man, Suicide Squad and Superboy

Around the Tubes

Posted on July 16, 2011 by Brett

It’s the weekend before San Diego Comic-Con and I’m putting together my final preparations, fun! While I’m running around doing errands and you’re enjoying your weekend, here’s the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

Maplewood Patch – Comic Books Can Save Lives, Too – Help raise money by buying comic books!

Kotaku – Captain America Does His Best Mirror’s Edge Impression on the iPhone – If only I had an iPhone….

Slash Film – Fox Buys Graphic Novel ‘Rust,’ An Adventure Story With a Jet Pack – We’ll have a review of the graphic novel soon.

Las Vegas Sun – Boom! Pow! Comic book store fights recession – How one store has fought against the recession and is thriving.

Con Coverage:

The Beat – The Comic-Con Virgin Diaries: Ali C. Day 1

Courier Journal – Derby City Comic Con | Saturday’s show first in years

Bleeding Cool – Will It Be Conflict Thursday At San Diego Comic Con?

MTV Geek – Review: SDCC-Exclusive Young Justice Superboy Figure

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Bill Sienkiewicz Sketchbook 2011

The Beat – The Comic-Con Virgin Diaries: Lauren A. Day 1

Bleeding Cool – Crossed Infects San Diego With Trading Cards, Ashcans And Exclusives

Bleeding Cool – Media Invited To Garth Ennis Stitched Press Conference

MTV Geek – SDCC 2011: Exclusive Gear Worth Waiting In Line For

The Beat – The Comic-Con Virgin Diaries: Nate C. Day 1

Around the Tubes Reviews:

CBR – X-Men: Schism #1

Around the Tubes

Posted on June 7, 2011 by Brett

It’s a new week and the post Flashpoint DC news is still coming out, this time focusing on the Batman line of comics. While you were distracted by “Weinergate,” here’s the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

IGN – Exclusive: DC Focuses on Diversity in Batman Titles – Cause this is the family of comics I think of when it comes to diversity.

Post Flashpoint:

IGN – Batman Inc. Returns With New #1

MTV Geek – DC Announces The New Batman Family of Titles! [Updated]

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch 2012: Batman Inc #1 Next Year

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Animal Man #1 (UPDATE)

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Scott Lobdell On Superboy #1

Bleeding Cool – DC Comics Relaunch: Batman And Robin, Dark Knight… And Batgirl!

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Cover To Catwoman #1

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Cover To Nightwing #1

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Detective Comics #1 Cover

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Cover To Swamp Thing #1

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Cover To Batwoman #1

Con Coverage:

Comic Book Resources – HeroesCon ’11: Hammer Time!

MTV Geek – HeroesCon 2011: The Thor Panel With Matt Fraction, Roger Langridge, and Jonathan Hickman

Comic Book Resources – HeroesCon ’11: The Green Lantern Panel

MTV Geek – HeroesCon 2011 Wrap-Up (In Photos): It’s All About The Art!

MTV Geek – HeroesCon 2011: Project Rooftop Panel Highlights Redesigning The Superhero Costume

Comic Book Resources – HeroesCon ’11: Matt Fraction’s Fear Itself Panel

Around the Tubes Reviews:

Book Passion for Life – Storm Born

Around the Tubes

Posted on June 3, 2011 by Brett

DC post-Flashpoint news continues to trickle out as well as the usual deluge of reviews from other sites. Also the return of a long dead comic book line! Check out the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

Shockya – Valiant Entertainment Reintroducing Valiant Universe in 2012 – There’s potential here, but I don’t see how fourth or fifth time’s a charm.

Geekweek – Paramount To Adapt DC’S THE MIGHTY Graphic Novel – Haven’t read it, so no idea if this is a good idea or not.

Post Flashpoint:

Bleeding Cool – DC Announces Justice League #1 Print Or Digital For $3.99 – $4.99 For Both

Comics Alliance – Comic Book Retailers Weigh in on the DC Comics Reboot and Same Day Digital

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Duane Swierczynski And Batman

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Teen Titans #1

The Beat – JMS: “Reboot was DiDio’s dream”

Bleeding Cool – DC Relaunch: Batwoman #1

Con Coverage:

MTV Geek – HeroesCon Preview: What We’re Looking Forward To At This Year’s Convention

Around the Tubes Reviews:

IGN – The Amazing Spider-Man #663