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Review: Superman: American Alien #5

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Superman American Alien #5 CoverNow regularly patrolling the skies of Metropolis as an anonymous figure known to some as “the flying man,” 24 year old Clark Kent has become a local celebrity. But when he overhears a report on his police scanner about a 20-foot-tall purple monstrosity that’s tearing the city apart…Clark encounters real power for the first time.

Writer Max Landis has been breaking down the basics of Superman with each issue focusing on an aspect about the character and taking us throughout his life. Last issue had him coming to Metropolis and in this issue his alter ego is starting to emerge as he dons an outfit that’s a combo of Jet from Rust and Batman (which is a great nod to last issue).

The issue is focused on of why Superman does what he does. What drives him, and what goes through his mind? It’s an interesting read that mixes in some decent action with Clark and Lois chatting and Superman’s first confrontation with Lex Luthor. It might seem a bit shallow in discussion and simplistic as to Superman’s motivation, but I still found myself lingering at times, especially in Lois and Clark’s chats. Landis is clearly choosing his words carefully and the chats show that off.

First up when it comes to the art, can we talk about the cover by Ryan Sook? Holy crap is it good. I want this art, and I want Sook on Superman as an ongoing!

The interior art by Francis Manapul is awesome. Manapul is a favorite artist of mine and I find his style is amazing when it comes to action, especially motion. He goes to town with some amazing design, but just fantastic art. What I think surprised me was Manapul with the quieter moments of Lois talking to Clark, it just pops and the small motions each make, their body position tell as much of the story as the words.

This series continues to impress me, and is easily the best Superman comic on the market right now. It has rarely faltered and kept me entertained while exploring the character. Such a fantastic series and I’m looking forward to the final two issues and see where Landis takes us.

Story: Max Landis Art: Francis Manapul Cover: Ryan Sook
Story: 8.4 Art: 8.6 Overall: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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International-Iron-ManWednesdays 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.

Mr. H

Top Pick: Superman #50 (DC Comics) – Truth be gone! Superman is back and he gets to meet Pre 52 Clark? Absolutely on board for this one. Hope we get a lot on all the supporting cast and how they react to Clark fully back. Good to see the S in the sky again. Great Caesars Ghost it took long enough.

Dragon Age: Magekiller #4 (Dark Horse Comics) – So this book has been the guilty pleasure of my pull list each month lately. Greg Rucka and Carmen Canero do an awesome job of hitting the fantasy bone with great characters and fun as hell dialogue. Sad it’s winding down. Only one more ish to go…

International Iron Man #1 (Marvel Comics) – While I’m not completely hating Invincible Iron Man, there is definitely something lacking. Hoping that one of my favorite all time teams can bring the flash back to Tony’s tales. I don’t need a ticket to Stark Expo for this one. I’m already there.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Extraordinary X-Men #8 (Marvel) – I know, they’re pulling the Apocalypse Wars to coincide with the upcoming movie; but Apocalypse is a great villain, so I’m excited for this to start.  Not so keen on the fact the X-Men are going into the timestream…again!  Haven’t they already made a big enough mess with all the time travel?  I’m really hoping this is a great story arc…and I love this team line up.

All-New Inhumans #5 (Marvel) – So Crystal and her team are exploring the skyspears around the world, stopping in China first…and Spider-Man is joining them.  An interesting team up, and I’m looking forward to see it.

All-New X-Men #6 (Marvel) – Still a fun ride, but I’d like to see a little more from this title then just Warren worrying about Laura, Evan and Idie standing around in the background and Hank feeding their pet Bamf.  A more substantial story would be nice; yes I know young Scott is trying to redeem himself but ok…and??  The fun ride is getting a little stale, I want more from these kids.

Scarlet Witch #4 (Marvel) – This is the book I’m really rooting for;  I haven’t been enjoying it 100% and I just hope it finds its footing with the potential I know it has.  Wanda is such a great character, one of my favourites and I think she needs a title to shine in.

Uncanny Inhumans #6 (Marvel) – I am loving that they brought the Quiet Room from Secret Wars into the main universe, and I’m really liking the idea behind it; a neutral zone for meetings, gambling and a good time. Of course, it all goes to hell and Black Bolt has to clean it up the mess. Really enjoying this book and liking this new side of Black Bolt.

 

Alex

Top Pick: Wrath Of The Eternal Warrior #5 (Valiant) – Juan Jose Ryp and Jordie Bellaire are the talented artists joining the phenomenal writer Robert Venditti for this issue. That alone makes me drool with anticipation, but the fact that this is the first of a two part story makes me positively giddy. It has been years since I’ve read a two part story for a character I love as much as the Eternal Warrior. I can’t bloody wait.

 

Javier

Top Pick: Devolution #3 (Dynamite Entertainment) – At first, I picked this up only because Remender wrote it.  Now that I am firmly aware of its premise—a devolved world resulting from a man made virus created to eliminate religious beliefs, and by extension strife and war—I’m hooked for the long haul.

3 Devils #1 (IDW Publishing) – I really don’t know much about Bo or this book. All I know is that it’s a “supernatural western with a gypsy girl, an ex-slave with no soul, and a human wolf.”  Taking a risk but sounds promising.

Clean Room #6 (Vertigo) – Gail Simone’s dark, demonic, bloody, and cultish book is giving me nightmares, and I love it.

Legends of Tomorrow #1 (DC Comics) – Old school writers (Gerry Conway and Len Wein), and a new take on Sugar and Spike (sorry, but if you automatically recognize these two, then you’re probably old).  I am eager to see what DC does with this.

Starve #7 (Image Comics) – Having grown up in East New York during the 1980s, this will not be my first experience with urban chicken farms (my Uncle had one on Euclid Avenue); but I am curious about the “Black Market Greens.”

 

Brett

Top Pick: A&A: The Adventures of Archer & Armstrong #1 (Valiant) – It’s been too long since we had an Archer and Armstrong comic from Valiant. Each time this team has been on the printed page, I’ve been beyond entertained and usually howling with laughter. Always a fantastic read, and I expect no less from this debut issue.

All-New Classic Captain Canuck #1/Captain Canuck #7 (Chapter House Comics) – Pure, fun super hero comics with none of the negative grim and gritty. A fun read that has a classic feel about it.

Legends of Tomorrow #1 (DC Comics) – I like anthologies and this series is going to spotlight various characters in each issue. This has Firestorm, Sugare & Spike, Metamorpho, and Metal Men and that combo has me excited to see where this goes and hoping for a long run.

Monstress #4 (Image Comics) – An amazing world that builds with each issue. I’m not a big fantasy fan, but this series has me hooked. A deep read and just jaw dropping art.

Superman: American Alien #5 (DC Comics) – A solid deconstruction of Superman with a rotating cast of artists with each issue. I think it’s the best Superman on the market right now.

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Power_Man_and_Iron_Fist_1_CoverIt was new comic book day yesterday! What’d everyone get? What did you find exciting? What were duds? Sound off in the comments below!

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Ad Week – Youssef Daoudi to Create a Thelonious Monk Graphic Novel – Well that’s interesting.

The Beat – The Deadpool Movie Isn’t Faithful To The Comics, And I Approve – Do you think it is?

BBC – Did the Maya create the first “comics”? – This is really interesting.

The Beat – Commentary: BATMAN: The Uncomfortable Conversation – Bryan Hill is always someone to see what he has to say.

Panels – 12 Black Comic Artists You Should Know – Some great suggestions.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – Avengers Standoff: Welcome to Pleasant Hill #1

Newsarama – Avengers Standoff: Welcome to Pleasant Hill #1

Talking Comics – Bill & Ted Go to Hell #1

Comic Vine – Bill & Ted Go to Hell #1

The Beat – Midnighter Vol. 1

CBR – Power Man & Iron Fist #1

Talking Comics – Sex Criminals #14

Comic Attack – Shaft: Imitation of Life #1

Comic Vine – Star Wars #16

Comic Vine – Superman: American Alien #4

Talking Comics – Will Eisner’s The Spirit: The New Adventures

Review: Superman: American Alien #4

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SMAA_Cv4Clark travels to Metropolis for the Cerberus Summit, a rare meeting between three of the world’s most prominent young chiefs of industry: Lex Luthor, Oliver Queen, and the enigmatic Bruce Wayne. Landing an exclusive interview with any of the three would all but guarantee Clark a prestigious internship with the Daily Planet…but Clark runs into some unexpected competition when he meets another college journalist named Lois Lane.

I’ve generally really enjoying writer Max Landis‘ exploration of Superman. Bouncing around through his life each issue sports a new artist, this one is Jae Lee. After looking at his youth and teenage years, this one has Clark heading to Metropolis to begin his early career at the Daily Planet… with an internship. There he meets Lois Lane, who looks Asian? The art is a little odd at times in Lee’s distinct style.

What I like what Landis has done here is that he uses the rather bizarre third issue which had Clark being mistaken for Bruce Wayne by Oliver Queen. That continues here as Queen, Wayne, and Luthor come together for a meeting of the giants and Queen again mistakes Clark for Wayne.

While we do learn a bit more about Clark, I think the bigger thing here is a focus on Oliver Queen and Lex Luthor (and a cameo by a certain Batman and Dick Grayson). A lot of the issue feels like it’s Queen and Luthor discussing their visions, what they’re hoping to accomplish, and their philosophies. This issue isn’t about Superman as much as it is about the corporate pillars of the DC Universe.

What Landis does fantastic is giving Luthor a philosophy that’s hard to argue against. It’s his view, for good or bad, and it’s an interesting one, especially when he compares himself to Wayne and Queen. What drives those two to do good and Luthor to go his route? Some of that is laid out here.

As I said above Lee’s art is hit and miss. Some times I enjoy it, some times I don’t and this issue is a mix. Some of it, especially panel layout, is fantastic, but tere’s something I don’t completely dig, especially is character design. Lois, and Clark at times, look Asian at times, which is a little weird. Also is an issue is that Dick Grayson looks like a miniature version of Clark too, the faces don’t vary much. What I do dig is Lee’s Lex Luthor who looks fantastic.

Overall, the series is a solid one and I’m enjoying where it’s all going. This is one I think the whole will be better than individual issues, but those individual issues are pretty damn good.

Story: Max Landis Art: Jae Lee
Story: 8.2 Art: 7.2 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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The weekend is almost here! How are folks spending the long weekend? While you decide on that, here’s some comic book news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

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Comics Alliance – Kyle Starks’ ‘Sexcastle’ Optioned By Fox, With ‘Workaholics’ Creators And Russo Brothers Attached To Direct – Interesting.

The Outhousers – ‘Fantastic Four’ Nominated for Five Razzies – Mazel Tov!

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Talking Comics – Doctor Who: Four Doctors

Talking Comics – Gotham Academy #14

The Outhousers – Gutter Magic #1

CBR – The Legend of Wonder Woman #1

CBR – The Mighty Thor #3

CBR – Superman: American Alien #3

Review: Superman: American Alien #3

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Superman American Alien #3When his plane crash-lands in the middle of the ocean, 21-year-old Clark Kent finds himself at a raging party on a massive yacht and is mistaken for the guest of honor: billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne!

Superman: American Alien #3 is an interesting comic. As a story completely on its own, it’s really fun, entertaining. But, when you start to think about the comic, it’s completely absurd in many ways.

Written by Max Landis, this third issue is an interesting one. Each comic has looked at one aspect of Clark Kent’s evolution in to Superman. This issue takes him to young adult hood and has him impersonating Bruce Wayne in a case of mistaken identity. Plus Oliver Queen is there… and add in Deathstroke! Yeah, it’s all a little weird and as long as you don’t think too hard, the comic is fun and entertaining. But, the situations Clark is put in to are so over the top unlikely with too many known characters that factor in later in his life. Then there’s also questions that are left open like what happened to the pilot that was with Clark. Yeah, silly is a good way to describe it.

The comic is supposed to be a way for us to reflect upon Clark’s humble beginnings versus that of Bruce versus that of Oliver, all of whom later become superheroes. But, a much more effective way would have three different stories bouncing between the three individuals at this similar point in their lives. The plot Landis uses to have this discussion is just too out there for me to really get in to it and enjoy the “debate.”

The art by Joelle Jones is great as always. Jones style gives us a cool design that makes it believable that Clark could be mistaken for Bruce. The hedonism is fun, the art matches the vibe really well and Clark actually was presented as drunk in as believable way as you can on the printed page.

I can see what Landis was trying to do here, I just think it could have been done in a better way that wasn’t so over the top unbelievable and a ridiculous scenario. As part of the overall series, this could work, but as a stand alone, it misses the mark.

Story: Max Landis Art: Joelle Jones
Story: 6.8 Art: 7.9 Overall: 6.9 Recommendation: Pass

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Superman: American Alien, the Most Relevant Comic Story in Pop Culture Today

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imgres-1Max Landis is writing probably the most relevant comic story in major comic pop culture today, Superman: American Alien. At least in my opinion. I swear, this story’s view-point of using Superman to shed light within American immigrant community is; bold, insightful and absolutely fantastic. As a natural citizen of the U.S., I have never come yo know the difficulties of coming to this country and trying to fit in, as one who faces coming from a different culture and country all together. The way Max is using Superman’s abilities when he’s coming of age and trying to figure them out as a symbolic theme as trying to fit in the norm of American lifestyle and or learning the American ways as an outsider is both heart breaking and deeply insightful.

The best part that I have come to really enjoy in this comic series so far is, each issue is a self-contained issue. So, if someone grabs one issue and not another, they wont’ be clueless on what’s going on. They will get a complete story within each issue. And let me just say, each one story that I had the pleasure of reading this far has been worth every penny I spent in my comic shop. The way he opens each issue up and gives such good dramatic deliverance of a story, in a small page count is utterly insane!

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Another facet I know readers will come to enjoy is the layers of back story each comic gives in the art alone. At the end of the issues you have, usually, a two page spread of things from the Kent’s home life that delivers a heavy back story into Superman’s backstory that we all remember hearing about and or new things this book is adding to the mythos of Superman. It really gives a real authentic look into a such an iconic fictional character, that you get a sense of how things would really have worked out for the Kent family household if Superman really did exist in our world. Which as a Superman fan, I am getting a huge damn kick out of. Hey, what can I say? I have a soft spot for old blue.

Now getting back to another important issue that this comic is telling us within its fantastic symbolism, is this.

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How becoming an American citizen as an immigrant can be viewed from all ages. You see, each issue is Clark/Superman trying to “fit in” as he is wildly different from everyone else around him and how he feels alienated. It doesn’t matter what age you are, coming to this country and trying to fit in must be hard as hell. Wether you are learning a new way of speaking, new culture, new histories and the different way of life thing all together, Max does a superb job at really encompassing all this and delivers such a powerful truth to the reader if they were to sit down and take a hard look through a fictional characters eyes how becoming an American can be so difficult seeking a new way of life in our country. Honestly, I am really hoping this dude gets en Eisner Award for his writing in this book. It’s beyond what you would expect from a Superman comic, but, it’s something we all knew we wanted in some way. And Max is driving it out the ball park.

And now for the art team… Man… The way Superman: American Alien changes its art style to fit each story is brilliant. Whether it’s a boy facing his fears of being different or a teenager trying so desperately to fit in, each comic has a unique look and feel that is so fitting for the story, that feels like your immersed in the story. I truly am amazed how well this book is coming out. The whole creative team behind this comic should feel proud on there work on this book.

Now I know its been a long while since I wrote for you fans here at Graphic Policy, so remembering our rating system is a little off, so I’ll say this:

Story: Amazing!  Art: Amazing! Over all: Perfect! Recommendation: Buy it!

Talk with y’all soon family

-Flip Knox

 

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So, who saw The Force Awakens last night? What’d you think? Sound off in the comments!

While you wait in line to see it again, here’s some comic news and reviews from around the web to keep you entertained.

Around the Tubes

ICv2 – Asmodee, Fantasy Flight, Days of Wonder Consolidate – Some interesting gaming news.

The Beat – When a con is crap: Panama City Beach Comic Con – So sad to hear this.

The Beat – Is Marvel’s Relaunch Stumbling Out of the Gate? – What do you think?

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

Comic Vine – Justice League #46

ICv2 – Showman Killer Vol. 1 Heartless Hero

CBR – Superman: American Alien #2

Talking Comics – Superzero #1

Review: Superman: American Alien #2

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Superman American Alien #2After Smallville experiences its first violent crime in years, teenager Clark Kent is pressured by his best friend Pete Ross to take matters into his own hands.

The first issue of Superman: American Alien was one of the best takes on the Man of Steel in quite some time. Writer Max Landis really nailed what makes Superman so special and magical.

Landis is joined by artist Tommy Lee Edwards for this issue which takes us to Clark’s teenage years and his powers are more pronounced. It also appears that a lot of folks know about them.

A situation comes forth and he has to decide to use those powers for good versus staying more low-key and not putting himself in danger. He’s still not completely bullet proof, and his control isn’t quite there. It’s an interesting story that’s a good second follow up, but it doesn’t quite have the innocent fun of that first issue.

This is a much darker tale, and Clark is clearly a teenage torn about using his powers. There’s some good topics that come up like his use of his x-ray vision, just as you think teenagers would discuss, and those moments are highlights for the issue.

I can see what Landis is trying to do and explore about the character, a mix about his learning to use his power to seek justice, as well as trying to not be found out. There’s also the relationship with his parents and friends. It’s an ok take, but doesn’t totally work for me.

Tommy Lee Edwards’ art is solid and I like a lot of his previous work. It really fits the tone of the story and works super well. There’s some solid work and small details that make a lot of the panels pop. I really like Ryan Sook’s cover, in fact loved it since it debuted in solicits.

The second issue of Superman: American Alien isn’t bad, it’s just a very different tone than the first issue, so it’s best to go in to the comic expecting it as single issues of an anthology that share a character. Still, the most interesting Superman comic I’ve read in some time.

Story: Max Landis Art: Tommy Lee Edwards
Story: 7.2 Art: 8.1 Overall: 7.3 Recommendation: Read

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Lucifer_Cv1_SDCC_559dae8a9dfde9.56453707Wednesdays 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.

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