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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 – 10/12/11

Posted on October 23, 2011 by Brett

A little late for these reviews. Was it worth it? Find out below!

Alpha Flight #5 – The team pulls in Taskmaster to help train their army as the Unity government continues to push their agenda. The art is really off, Taskmaster just doesn’t look like himself. The story is getting better, but it all feels a bit rudimentary instead of the complicated political story it should be.

Story: 7.25 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #5 – And that’s a wrap for the limited series. It’s a big action sequence that’s very Indiana Jones at times. I really liked the series overall, and it added a lot to the overall American Vampire story. The ending was solid and fun and a nice way to wrap up the story line. Here’s hoping we’ll see some more limited series and graphic novels based in this universe in the future.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Batgirl #2 – The second issue is pretty solid. The fight scenes are really good and I like how Babs has PTSD from being shot. The more I learned about the villain Mirror the more I dug him. It’s an issue that grew on me, but didn’t grab me like I’d of hoped. It’s a solid read though, and it looks like this’ll be one of the standout series of DC’s new 52.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Batman and Robin #2 – I really like Bruce and Damian, one struggling to be a father and the other struggling being a kid. That dynamic is great and watching Bruce having issues with doing and saying things a father would is great. The bad is this villain. There’s clearly history and if you don’t know what that is (like me) that section falls short. Half of the comic is fantastic, the latter half falters.

Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Batwoman #2 – Pretty solid story that stumbled only on a few pages, the art is just amazing. The look, the layout, it’s beyond unique and unlike anything else out there. The art alone is enough to buy the comic. Just amazing in that department.

Story: 7.75 Art: 9.5 Overall: 8.25

Black Panther #524 – A Spider-Island tie-in that’s really not needed. It does nothing to add to that story, but really this is just a bridge to the next arc which involves the Kingpin. The story is pretty bad and art isn’t as good as usual. Pretty sure you could skip this issue and miss nothing.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Daken: Dark Wolverine #15 – I was hoping the whole Daken being a drug addict would of lasted longer. I liked the art, but story seems a bit convoluted. We’ll see how it ends, but the lead up has been better than this issue.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Deathstroke #2 – I’d hope the second issue would give a bit more than over the top violence. But with little plot the second issue of the series continues it’s attempt to make Deathstroke the bad-ass character he used to be. I myself need a bit more to my characters other than over sized swords and lots of stabbing.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

FF #10 – A quieter moment for the FF, everyone is scattered to where they were “needed” and that’s really the reflection here. This is the quiet before the storm as Hickman starts weaving all of the threads he’s set up together in what looks like one colossal story that’s leading up to Fantastic Four #600.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5

Generation Hope #12 – A choppy story, very uneven art and a reprint from another comic, sigh. The series was getting good, but this just kind of slides back to the second class X comic it was emerging from.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Green Lantern #2 – This issue sets up a dynamic that’s pretty damn interesting. It looks like Jordan gets his ring back, but with a twist that should lead to some fun stories in the future. There’s still a lot of questions about continuity, but I like where the series is going.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Grifter #2 – Hmm, I’ve decided the whole Daemonites story running in Grifter and Voodoo is a bit too They Live for me. The story is jumbled and too jumpy for me. It’s not quite a clear linear plot and something is very off. It just doesn’t feel very DC and not revealing info in a way that makes the story entertaining. The series is very off to me.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Jennifer Blood #5 – We get a lot more of the history and one ending I didn’t need to see. The words “bring out the gimp” come to mind. The comic is pure torture porn, but there’s something fun about it. Garth Ennis knows how to tip-toe that fine line keeping you entertained, but hating yourself for being so.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

The New Avengers #17 – Osborn is back and playing on even a bigger scale. The plot is just starting and if the Green Goblin is involved, it’s going to be good. There’s never been a better time to hop on the bandwagon, cause this looks like it’s going to be a lot of fun.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

The Punisher #4 – The Punisher is broken and it looks like the new Vulture is dead (we’ll see how long that lasts). A reporter struggles with the story and cops are chasing a killer. Lots going on in Rucka’s interesting take on the classic character. It’s a good start and I especially like the different perspective this issue has. We’ll see where it continues to go.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Resurrection Man #2 – Huh. The series feels like a riddle mixed in an enigma. I’m willing to stick around a while to see where the series goes, but it’s definitely interesting so far. There’s a mix of Vertigo and over the top action, a bit Preacher feel too. It’s an interesting mix overall. A decent second issue, but not absolutely amazing.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

S.H.I.E.L.D. #3 – I am so lost as to what’s going on. The series is a bit hard to follow as individual issues and would read much better as a trade or graphic novel.

Story: 6.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25

Suicide Squad #2 – The villain is laughable but interaction in the team is great. Everyone is expendable which makes this anything is possible comic. That’s the good part. The characters are no Secret Six when it comes to banter, and there’s a line in there that negates that entire series. So glad I got into it… Not a bad second issue, but not great.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #3 – Miles still learns about his powers and comes to terms with them a bit. He also has his first few days at school which is interesting. But, most importantly, we learn when this is all occurring which is very interesting and pretty smart writing. So far so good.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Ultimate Comics X-Men #2 – A second solid issue that finds the Mutants of this world hunted and persecuted. It’s a great mix of some of the latest solid plot lines from the regular 616 Marvel universe mixed a bit and just different enough to be original. It’s familiar yet totally new and I’m hooked.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Force #16 – When it comes to “X” story lines, this is it. A mix of everything that’s good, full of action and packed full of “holy shit” moments. Archangel is the new Apocalypse, X-Force keeps getting their asses beat and it all looks pretty damn hopeless. I have no idea how this is going to end.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Men: Legacy #257 – The battle is space continues for about two issues too long. Can’t wait for this to be over.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

X-Men: Regenesis – The sides are chosen and we get to see the various pitches. The “X” universe has shifted again and it’s looking like for the better right now.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 9/28/11

Posted on October 9, 2011 by Brett

I’ve already posted reviews for the DC comics that came out, but here’s everything else.

American Vampire #19 – I guess this could be subtitled “the origin of Skinner Sweet.” I think we’ll finally learn how he became a vampire by the end of it. But so far, we’re thrown into the Civil War, the American war with the Indians and get to learn a lot about Sweet and his history. An interesting start to the new arc.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Annihilators: Earthfall #1 – The Annihilators still have the Universal Church to deal with which has now splintered into two factions fighting each other. That leads them to Earth which gets noticed by a whole lot of folks. A bunch of aliens beating up humans doesn’t go over too well. Hopefully there’ll be more than fighting to this four issue limited series. The Rocket Racoon and Groot story is entertaining, but not enough to put this issue over the top.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Avengers Academy #19 – The battle with Absorbing Man and Titania comes to an end with very uneven art and a story I shrug my shoulders about. I don’t understand the praise over the series.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Astonishing X-Men #42 – The battle with the Brood is over and there’s so much wrong here. Storm goes from being infected to not in one panel, there’s a lot of sappy foreshadowing. This series is anything but astonishing.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #523.1 – An ok issue, that unfortunately again puts women in danger to get at the hero. An all too easy plot device. There’s a lot I liked, and a lot I didn’t (replacing bullets!?). Not the best of the series and definitely not a good point one. Also, following this with an event issue just isn’t smart planning.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25

Brilliant #1 – The latest from Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley asks the question, “what if super powers were real?” There’s some promise here, but the first issue doesn’t hook me like it should have. I also can’t help but think I’ve seen this all before.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Captain America & Bucky #622 – Bucky takes center stage as he has to deal with the fact he’s the only person without power. The Invaders get captured and he has to rush to their aid. The series has been fun so far with solid art. It’s nice it gives a look into Bucky’s early years without have to retcon a bunch of stories. So far so good.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Fear Itself: Hulk vs. Dracula #2 – Two issues in and all this is, is one big fight scene between the Hulk and Vampires. So far it adds little to the great Fear Itself storyline and the fact it’s release schedule is compressed makes me think this was a last minute thing or extremely late. While not horrible in any way, I struggle to think of a reason one should buy it other than being a completist.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Fear Itself: The Deep #4 – The series itself was blah, but that’s what’s known as foreshadowing. It’s clear we’ll see a lot of these characters in the new Defenders series that will sure start. Whether that’ll be better, that remains to be seen, but if it’s not, I don’t see it lasting long.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

FF #9 – The Inhuman’s whip some ass and with one issue Black Bolt is back and just dominates. The way he dismisses everyone just is so bad ass. A great issue that continues the problem with the Reed Richards’. There’s also something with Valeria that’s up and who knows where that’s going. A great continuation of a fantastic series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Incorruptible #22 – Max Damage continues to do his thing to try to clean up his act as a new villain comes on the scene. Plutonian also decides to show up, which should be interesting in the next issue. Not the best of the series, but it’s a fun series overall.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Iron Man 2.0 #9 – The Palmer Addley story continues as we finally learn how he’s “survived.” It’s an interesting issue and a lot I liked, but a bunch I had some issues with. It’s unfortunate in that the series had a lot of momentum and then got derailed by Fear Itself. If this was a straight story, without the break, it’d of been much better, but Marvel f-ed this up and a few other series with the distraction.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Journey Into Mystery #628 – Loki leads the troops against the Serpent in hell. It’s interesting, but not quite sure exactly what’s going on. I like it, but I’m confused about it all.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Kick-Ass 2 #4 – For all of the talk about how women are treated and portrayed in comics, how did this not cause more of an uproar? The comic is violent porn and the fact there isn’t an outcry over the rape of a teenage girl, the killing of small children and the murder of god knows how many cops makes me question the recent outcry. But, onto the comic, it’s pure violence, with a lot of holy shit moments. I’m a bit torn because it’s so over the top, but like a Tarantino movie, there’s something entertaining about it.

Story: 6 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.25

The Mighty Thor #6 – Not a bad ending to the battle with Galactus, but the issue remains as to when this takes place? It can’t be post Fear Itself, then there’s the Silver Surfer’s involvement with the Annihilators. It doesn’t exactly add up and for this Marvel fan, it bothers me.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

The New Avengers #16.1 – Why did this have to be a point one issue? There’s some good stuff here but the story telling and art are just off from the regular series. If the point ones are supposed to not be just jumping on points but also get folks interested in a series, I just don’t see this doing that.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

New Mutants #31 – I don’t know what it is, but these Fear Itself tie-ins are so bad. The story here is pointless other than a big fight, the art is horrible too. I liked some of the page layouts, but it’s not enough to make is enjoyable.

Story: 6 Art: 6 Overall: 6

Rachel Rising #2 – WTF!? That ending was so disturbing for so many reasons. This is such a creepy horror comic….

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Secret Avengers #17 – Warren Ellis took over the series I was expecting some big explosions and master story telling. We’ve had to self contained issues for his first two issues and neither were all that good. The art isn’t quite up to snuff and the plot is ho-hum. It’s like the comic is treading water until Fear Itself is done.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #2 – I can’t say I like how a story that took one issue to tell in the 1960’s will be dragged out for four or five issues, but the pacing and how things unfold are still solid. There’s some great touches that really updates the Spider-Man mythos for the modern world wrapping in technology and discussions of tolerance. Even the stereotypical chat about “responsibility” is updated. This is Spider-Man for a new millennium and that has to do with more than just his skin color.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Ultimate Comics Ultimates #2 – Well that got a bit complicated quickly. I think the pacing was very off in the issue cramming in too much for a new reader, but it’s theme of technology and progress killing myth and god is very intriguing.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Venom #7 – A bit torn on the issue, it’s easy to dismiss it as a tie-in for yet another event, but there’s a lot of focus on Flash and his connection to Venom. It’s very subtle but it’s there. Instead of asking Anti-Venom to come with him, he attacks, there’s then a scene with him and his father. It’s two parts of a comic that’s really a focus on a character and the demons that lie within.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Wolverine #16 – The fallout of Wolverine finding himself after killing his children continues, but I can’t help feel like I’ve read this exact same story before….

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

X-Men: Legacy #256 – It’s great to see these characters back, but the story is boring and the art atrocious. Spinning wheels until the shake up is all I have to say really.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

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

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 8/3/11 and 8/10/11

Posted on August 28, 2011 by Brett

Two weeks down of reviews and two more to go. Expect some more later today and hopefully I’ll be totally caught up by week’s end.

Alpha Flight #3 – Alpha Flight is on the run and this series at this point would be ho-hum if it weren’t for the fact I’m interested in seeing what the Unity party is really up to. The limited series is close to the half-way point and so far, it’s ok, but hasn’t made it’s case to be an ongoing comic book. The art too is off at times with odd positions of the bodies and art that just doesn’t do it for me.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #3 – Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s offshoot comic about Nazi Vampires just keeps getting better and better expanding the world we already know. Amazing stuff and I can’t recommend it enough.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Avengers Academy #17 – There’s parts of this comic I liked and a lot I didn’t. The art is inconsistent, and overall the comic feels like the “B” coming to the other Avengers “A.” I know the series gets a lot of praise, but I was a much bigger fan of it’s previous incarnations, and it hasn’t quite lived up to the potential of it’s first few issues.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #522 – I had my doubts when I first saw the American Panther sketches, but using Fear Itself to bring back the Hate Monger has worked really well, mainly because it doesn’t deal with the terrible story that Fear Itself is, and instead treats it as a backdrop. The last story arc was ok, but this one has kicked it up a lot dealing with hate, fear and immigration, a lot of issues being debated today.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Booster Gold #47 – The art is my issue with this particular issue. It’s very, very off. The story is ok and there’s some cool moments, especially the ending, but the series clearly went out with a whimper and not the bang I’d hope for DCnU.

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

Criminal: The Last of The Innocent #3 – Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips latest entry in their noir comics is as amazing as you’d expect. Instead of following the do-gooder who gets caught up in a bad situation the focus is on the bad guy. It’s enough to inject massive life in a series that’s far and above the rest to begin with. Absolutely mastery.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

Daken: Dark Wolverine #12 – Daken’s plan for the armored car robbery continues and that’d be just ok, but Daken is now having an issue with addiction, and that is getting interesting. The character doesn’t get the respect he deserves and this series is proving why he stands apart and isn’t just a second rate Wolverine.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Deadpool #41 – Deadpool is still in the crazy asylum and the series, which has been having issues lately with quality, has bounced back for at least this one. The art is back on track and I’m starting to like the move away from slapstick. It’s a big improvement.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Fear Itself #5 – This summer event by Marvel has been underwhelming and this comic is the perfect example of the issues it has. Thor dropping his usual speech, Spider-Man turning and running, and a simple solution when it comes to saving Ben Grimm. There’s attempts at cool moments here and it all falls flat.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.25

Fear Itself: Uncanny X-Force #2 – X-Force does it’s part in Fear Itself and I can’t say it adds anything to the storyline. They’re on the move to stop the Purifiers who are trying to take advantage of the situation and not even art by Bianchi can save this mess of a comic that doesn’t need to exist.

Story: 6.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 6.75

Fear Itself: Wolverine #2 – Too many places at once is the issue of this not needed comic tie-in. The art and character design is inconsistent and other than the parts with Wolverine’s girlfriend, I can’t say any of this is needed or important. A clear cash-in that adds nothing to the story and in fact causes bigger issues with it.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint #4 – It’s the second to last issue of the event that’s forced DC to grow up. In a five issue limited series DC comics has not only reshaped their entire universe, but they’ve also brought their comics into modern times. The fourth issue moves the story along with some great moments and a cliffhanger for the fifth and final issue that makes me count down in anticipation of the next issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance #3 – As a single issue, I can’t say I’ve enjoyed this final one as much as the previous two, but as a whole, all three are a solid read. This issue jumps back and forth between the past and present which fills in some of the blanks. Overall a solid three issues, even though this is the weakest of the bunch.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #3 – A pretty cool ending to the three issue limited series that just fits the feel of a world ending. The art is solid and story entertaining. A solid comic overall and very good limited series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #3 – An interesting comic, but the issue is it doesn’t wrap anything up, in fact it ends as an origin comic. The story is ok, but nothing too special, but I do think the last quarter was much better than the first three fourths.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Flashpoint: Deathstroke and the Curse of The Ravager #3 – An interesting story that adds to the world of Flashpoint, but doesn’t add anything to the Flashpoint story. It’s a decent three issues, but I can’t say I came away with having to read them at all. Decent, but not great.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #3 – Wow, did this third issue go off the rails. There’s lots of twists and turns and even more that’s just not explained. Why’s the doctor dressed as a mummy? Why are they on horses when they had a plane? Just such silliness that an ok idea crashes and burns in the end.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint: Secret Seven #3 – Out of all of the books, this one is my least favorite. I really don’t understand what was going on, and I honestly didn’t care to figure it all out. The issue is too much backstory that if you didn’t know the characters, you didn’t know what was going on.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint: World of Flashpoint #3 – A pretty sappy ending. The good about this series is it tied directly into the great Flashpoint story, but it didn’t add anything to it in the end, except show off a bit more of the world. But, that’s about it, it’s a three issue glorified travel guide. It’s not bad in anyway, but not really a must read.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Ghost Rider #2 – I’m still not quite sure what I think about this comic. It’s not bad in any way, but also doesn’t quite grab me like I’d hope. I’m sure die-hard Ghost Rider fans will appreciate it more, but to me, it’s missing that hook that gets me really excited.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Hero Comics 2011 – A comic book to benefit the Hero Initiative, it features work by some greats. For $3.99 you get some awesome stories and it goes towards a good cause.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Heroes for Hire #10 – The once great series has been sidelined to deal with the underwhelming Marvel event Fear Itself. The team is split between the chaos on the Raft and what’s going on at Yancy Street and neither of it is particularly entertaining. This just slows down the momentum the series had.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Iron Man 2.0 #7.1 – If the point one comics are supposed to be a jumping on point for new readers, this didn’t achieve that. Instead it’s just a continuation of the ongoing storyline which continues next issue. So the question remains why does this comic exist and why wasn’t it just the eighth issue? The issue is good in that it continues the Palmer Adley storyline, but, it doesn’t need to exist as a point one.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Irredeemable #28 – Plutonian is back and the world and The Paradigm react to his return. But what happens to the people who lied when they said they’d protect you. It’s an interesting issue and I have no idea what Mark Waid has in store next for this series.

Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Mega Man #4 – A cute ending that’s perfect for younger kids. The story is entertaining and has enough nostalgia for adults to appreciate it. It’s a decent first arc, but a bit rushed overall.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Moon Knight #4 – Moon Knight and Echo check up on each other and have their first date, sort of. The series is beyond solid taking Moon Knight’s crazy to a whole new level. The series is fantastic with great writing and amazing art to match. This should definitely be on your pull list.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

The New Avengers #15 – The issue’s focus is Squirrel Girl and her time during Fear Itself. It’s really entertaining with a great voice to the story telling and solid artwork. It might seem silly at first, but it’s a really good issue.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

New Mutants #29 – After a solid last issue, this one seems to run into the issues we’ve seen with Fear Itself tie-ins. The story just seems out of place and the characterization is off. Along with a new art style (which grew on me throughout the issue) the series seems to have swerved again. This series gets a lot of praise and I’m still not quite sure why. It’s not bad, but clearly the weakest of the “X” books.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Rachel Rising #1 – The first issue of Terry Moore’s new series brought with it a lot of buzz and I can see why. It’s all tease though and I think I can see where it’s going, but not 100% sure. There’s enough there though to get me to check out the next issue.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Secret Six #36 – So sad to see this series go. It’s been a great ride and this final issue has so much going for it. It’s not perfect, but it hits every note reminding us what made the series so special. It’s been great, and unfortunately we won’t be seeing it in the relaunched DCnU. Thank you Gail Simone for giving us thirty-six fantastic issues.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Severed #1 – Scott Snyder puts together another amazing horror series, which he’s shown he’s a master of. This one also takes place at the early onset of the 20th century, a time period he seems to enjoy writing about. We’re teased a lot and it’s more than enough to get me to check out the second issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

S.H.I.E.L.D. #2 – The series continues and I continue to scratch my head. I want to like it, and the ideas seem very interesting, but to say I really understand what the hell is going on here is a lie. This is one I know I need to go back and reread the entire thing through again.

Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5

Supreme Power #3 – A series that continues to mix super heroes and politics, I’ve been finding what it’s been doing is interesting. There’s only one more issue left in this volume, and I’m a bit perplexed how it’s going to wrap up everything that needs to be. It’s a very interesting book though and I can’t wait to see what the fourth issue holds.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Thunderbolts #161 – The team is focused on saving Chicago, and overall the story is decent with some good interaction between the characters. I can’t say it’s great though. But, a fun read.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

the Unwritten #28 – Huh, is really all I can say. The comic series about stories and myths begins to set it’s sites on Biblical tales. How this comic didn’t cause more of an uproar, I’ll never know. But it’s continuing to bring up interesting points in ways I can just barely comprehend.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Vengeance #2 – I seriously don’t get this series. It’s supposed to focus on the next generation of heroes and villains, but we’ve seen this exact same story done before, and better. I’m waiting for the big reveal, but so far, pretty unimpressed.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

War of the Green Lanterns Aftermath #2 – The war is over and Sinestro still has a ring on his finger. The corps is rocked and everyone is in doubt. If anything this is an attempt to bridge the new Green Lantern series we’ll be seeing in DCnU. It’s interesting and does it’s best to set up what’s coming next.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Wolverine #13 – One more issue and this story arc is over thank god. Wolverine continues to run the gauntlet as we get to see the pain he’s caused from the view of his victims. Yawn.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

X-Factor #223 – The story focusing on Rahne’s child continues and hopefully it ends soon. I can’t say this is the best of stories involving this team lately. It has it’s moments, but right now, it’s only ok.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

X-Men #15.1 – I’m so confused as to what the point of these point one comics are. I thought they’re supposed to be easy entry points to get new readers pumped and interesting about the comic and characters? This is a self contained story, but it has nothing to do with what makes the X-Men interesting. An utter failure.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

X-Men; Legacy #253 – How come Magneto’s helmet keeps coming going? Where does he put it when he’s not wearing it. Other than that weird art issue, the story is cool and we get to the meat of what we want. The return of Havok and Polaris and Rachel.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

X-23 #13 – Laura, meet Spider-Man and the FF, FF and Spider-Man this is Laura. While that’s interesting and has potential, it’s the hint we might see the NYX crew back that gets me more excited.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Around the Tubes

Posted on August 12, 2011 by Brett

The weekend is here and I plan on catching up on three weeks worth of books and begin the backlog of reviews. There’s still quite a few cons coming up, so planning begins for those as well. While I do that, what are folks plan for the weekend? While you contemplate that, here’s the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

The Mary Sue – Womanthology Sets the Record Straight On Where Its Funds Are Going – One take on the controversy.

The Beat – Womanthology: $100k may go to help start a new comics imprint — UPDATED – Another take on the controversy.

The Beat – One Piece set record with 2 million sold in 4 days – See, sales can be good.

ICv2 – Wahlberg Ready to Strap on ‘2 Guns’ – Another comic movie!

Ars Technica – Spoilers don’t spoil anything – An interesting article about spoilers and if they really ruin things.

Monthly/Quarterly Sales:

ICv2 – ‘Amazing Spider-Man’ #666 Tops July Sales

ICv2 – Top 300 Comics Actual–July 2011

ICv2 – Top 300 Graphic Novels Actual–July 2011

Around the Tubes Reviews:

IGN – The Amazing Spider-Man #667

CBR – Amazing Spider-Man #667

IGN – American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #3

IGN – Artifacts #9

IGN – Batgirl #24

IGN – Batman and Robin #26

IGN – Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #522

IGN – Booster Gold #47

IGN – Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #3

IGN – Daken: Dark Wolverine #12

IGN – Deadpool #41

IGN – Fear Itself #5

CBR – Fear Itself #5

IGN – Fear Itself: Uncanny X-Force #2

IGN – Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #3

IGN – Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #3

IGN – Flashpoint: Emperor Aquaman #3

IGN – Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #3

IGN – Ghost Rider #2

IGN – Hellboy: The Fury #3

CBR – Hellboy: The Fury #3

IGN – The Incredible Hulks #634

IGN – Morning Glories #11

IGN – The New Avengers #15

IGN – PunisherMAX #16

IGN – The Red Wing #2

IGN – Spider-Island: Cloak & Dagger #1

IGN – Spider-Island: Deadly Foes #1

IGN – Ultimate Comics: Fallout #5

IGN – The Unwritten #28

IGN – Vengeance #2

IGN – War of the Green Lanterns: Aftermath #2

IGN – X-Men #15.1

IGN – X-Men Legacy #253

Paste Magazine – Comic Book & Graphic Novel Round-Up (8/10/11)

IGN – Comic Book Reviews for 8/10/11

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 7/13/11

Posted on July 18, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books dominated Flashpoint tie-ins and the debut of some high profile series. What’s worth the money and what can you skip? Find out below!

Alpha Flight #2 – There’s definitely something appropriately “Canadian” about this series both in it’s topics and it’s voice. We get a better sense as to exactly is going on and somewhat the Unity Party is up to. The series hasn’t blown me out of the water yet, but it at least has a unique voice and feel.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #2 – I said after reading the first issue whether we really needed a mini-series of the still very young and fresh American Vampire, but the answer is yes. Both series are showing off a quality that justifies and any chance to speed up the story telling is much appreciated and wanted.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #521 – For all those that laughed and moaned when they say sketches for the American Panther, I guess they get to eat their words. Sadly the story is tied in a bit with Fear Itself, but if it didn’t have to be, the story would be very solid dealing with hate and fear in America. If anything, the story so far doesn’t go enough, but it’s still a great read.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Booster Gold #46 – Booster continues to fight Doomsday and the story is ok, but really is one extended fight scene that doesn’t move the story along or give us a greater glimpse into the world of Flashpoint. The art too seems to have slipped a little. Not as good as the first two entries.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Captain America #1 – And a new Captain America series is launched almost jettisoning Brubaker’s previous run. The first issue though is beyond solid with great action, interesting mystery and a great look. This is everything I hoped for and more. Very great read and a must buy.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Daken: Dark Wolverine #11 – Daken has turned into a drug addict which is a bit of an interesting story line. I like the art style switching between him being normal and being high and as always the twisted sexual games he plays is something you don’t see in too many other series. This is one that’s flying under the radar and worth the read.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Deadpool #40 – This probably could also be called “When Deadpool Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest.” Deadpool gets sent to a psych ward, though it’s in England, which doesn’t really make sense, but oh well….

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Fear Itself: Spider-Man #3 – Probably the best of the Fear Itself tie-ins, the story sores because it focuses not on Spider-Man and his rather uphill battle, but instead of average people suffering from the madness of the world around them. A solid three issue limited series that’s much better than the event series it’s tied into.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

FF #6 – So much that’s very cool, but if feels wrong for Black Bolt to return under anyone’s guidance other than DnA. At the same time, I’m forced to say “huh?”

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #2 – The issues starts off strong enough with the Rogues out to take on Cold, but the end is a bit confusing as to what’s exactly going on at times with the action not being clear enough. Overall, still entertaining.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Flashpoint: Deathstroke – And the Curse of the Ravager #2 – The fight between Aquaman and Deathstroke’s crew continues in another issue that’s mostly fight. Again, not much movement and showing the world that is Flashpoint. For a great setting sail, the story seems to have lost it’s momentum.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Flashpoint: Emperor Aquaman #2 – The origin of Emperor Aquaman and it’s a very good read. We get a good sense of who he is and why he is the way he is due to this issue and…. it moves the overall story forward.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #2 – Something was a bit uneven about this issue. It wasn’t bad, but wasn’t particularly good either. I guess overall, I feel like it just doesn’t fit into Flashpoint and doesn’t add anything to the overall universe.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Ghost Rider #1 – I wasn’t too impressed by the #0.1 issue and the first issue didn’t blow me away either.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

Green Lantern #67 – Now that was an ending, but we’re left with tons of questions as to what to expect in the relaunch of this series. The War of the Green Lanterns was uneven at times, but the ending made up for it all.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern Corps. #61 – A nice throwback issue that takes on a social issue and addresses it at a galactic level. At the same time we’re introduced to all of the new Lanterns recruited during the war. It’s a decent issue, but the series just seems to be killing time until DCnU kicks off.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

Journey Into Mystery #625 – While I will say the series is solid, it’s a bit too convoluted in it’s dealings and double dealings. The story isn’t straightforward and you need a chart to keep track of all of the wheeling and double dealing. The series is interesting though and this issue does give us a glimpse as to the origin of the Serpent.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Mystery Men #3 – We’re a little over the half way point and the series introduces some more “heroes” to the fold. The story has a modern pulp feel to it that’s entertaining, but doesn’t quite meet the quality of The Twelve which it resembles. It’s a good series, but might be best to read in trade form.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

The New Avengers #14 – I’m a bit mixed on the issue. It focuses on Mockingbird and her new status as well as some issues Spider-Man is having and also what’s going on with Fear Itself. There’s one scene in particular that’s very reminiscent of 9-11 that really caused a mixed stir of emotions that I’m still processing while I write this. Is it over the top? Maybe? Is it one hell of a statement in one page? Yes. Is it beautifully drawn? Absolutely.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

New Mutants #27 – Really a convoluted way to get Nate Grey back in the fold the story is so-so and the art actually sub-par for an “X” book. Even with a reboot, the series isn’t what it should be. It comes off as second class in many ways.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

The Red Wing #1 – Jonathan Hickman is a brilliant writer and this series is an interesting start. I can’t say it’s quite up to snuff as his past indie series, but those are some of the best comics ever written. An interesting start though.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8

the Unwritten #27 – The series gets a bit more meta as the shift comes into how comic books have shaped the modern myth. It’s definitely interesting to read and I wish I had someone to discuss it with.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Wolverine #12 – Folks still want revenge on Wolverine and this arc just doesn’t hold up either. I like the idea of focusing on the folks that Wolverine has hurt through his actions, I’m just not sure this is the best way to go about it.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25

X-Men: Schism #1 – And in one issue everything ramps up as the latest “X” event kicks off. We’ve seen the prelude and we’ve gotten hints as to what expect, but now it’s game on. Jason Aaron has had mixed results in my opinion of his handling of various “X” titles, but this limited series kicks off with a solid start.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Around the Tubes

Posted on July 15, 2011 by Brett

The weekend is so near and that just means last minute planning for those of us heading to San Diego Comic-Con 2011. Have to say I’m very excited and hopefully we do you all proud as far as news. Well, while you contemplate what you hope to see and hear, here’s the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

Business Wirew – G4TV.com Teams with Graphicly to Give Fans Free Digital Comics – Be interesting to see how this goes.

Con Coverage:

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Octobriana

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Neil Gaiman In Hero Comics 2011

Kotaku – The Big Games and the Can’t Miss Events of Comic-Con 2011

CBR – Hero Initiative Announces Auctions for Comic-Con International in San Diego

Bleeding Cool – Trade In Your Copies Of Twilight For 30 Days Of Night At San Diego Comic Con

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Epoch #1 by Kevin McCarthy & Paolo Pantalena

Bleeding Cool – Marvel To Announce The Defenders At San Diego Comic Con

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Ties: A Chronicle Of Letters by Emily McGuiness

Culture Mob – Comic Con 2011 – 6 Days And Counting

MTV Geek – SDCC 2011: Animation Round-Up

Comics Alliance – The San Diego Comic-Con Exclusives Worth Standing In Line For

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Echoes HC by Joshua Hale Fialkov and Rahsan Ekedal

The Mary Sue – Steven Spielberg to Descend on Comic Con to Promote Tintin

MTV Geek – Manga at San Diego Comic-Con

MTV Geek – See ‘Gantz’ and ‘Gantz II: Perfect Answer’ At SDCC

MTV Geek – Places You Don’t Want To Be At SDCC

Bleeding Cool – San Diego Debut: Stripperella #1 Actually Written By Stan Lee

Around the Tubes Reviews:

IGN – The Amazing Spider-Man #665

IGN – American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #2

IGN – Batgirl #23

IGN – Batman: The Dark Knight #3

IGN – Detective Comics #879

Mouth London – The Dylan Dog Case Files

IGN – Fear Itself: Spider-Man #3

IGN – FF #6

IGN – Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #2

IGN – Flashpoint: Deathstroke – The Curse of the Ravager #2

IGN – Flashpoint: Emperor Aquaman #2

IGN – Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #2

IGN – Ghost Rider #1

IGN – Gladstone’s School for World Conquerors #3

CBR – Green Lantern #67

IGN – Green Lantern #67

IGN – Green Lantern Corps #61

IGN – The Incredible Hulks #632

IGN – Journey Into Mystery #625

IGN – Loose Ends #1

IGN – Mystery Men #3

IGN – The New Avengers #14

IGN – The Red Wing #1

IGN – Star Wars: The Old Republic – The Lost Suns #2

IGN – Superman #713

IGN – Ultimate Comics: Avengers vs. New Ultimates #6

IGN – Ultimate Comics: Fallout #1

CBR – Ultimate Comics: Fallout #1

ICv2 – Uncouth Sleuth

IGN – Wolverine #12

IGN – Comic Book Reviews for 7/13/11

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/8/11

Posted on June 13, 2011 by Brett

It’s a decent stack of books last week dominated by summer events. What’s worth it? Find out below.

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1 – With the main series a little over a year old, I questioned whether an offshoot limited series was needed. This one flashes forward to World War II as a team of vampire hunters must head to occupied Nazi territory to retrieve a scientist. The story is solid and art fantastic, I can see why this was given the green light and looking forward to the rest of the issues.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Annihilators #4 – Both stories are decent, but neither blew me away. It’s the end for this limited series and we get another chapter in a few months to see where the cosmic section of the Marvel universe goes. A decent limited series but not quite to the quality we’ve seen in the past.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #519 – Panther is on the hunt to save his friend Brian, but Kraven stands in the way. What happens when two solid warriors such as these are pitted against each other? This story arc will let us find out. A decent read, but not great.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Booster Gold #45 – We get a better sense of the world of Flashpoint as Booster does some investigative work to figure out what’s going on. This, I’m sure is the Flashpoint tie-in everyone’s missing. The first issue was great, this one was just good, entertaining though.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Deadpool #38 – Deadpool continues to piss off the Hulk in hopes of getting killed. I keep getting pissed off by how slapstic the series has gotten.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Fear Itself: Deadpool #1 – Wow, just when I thought Fear Itself tie-ins couldn’t get any worse, this comes along.

Story: 5 Art: 7 Overall: 5.5

Fear Itself: Fearsome Four #1 – Just slightly better than the Deadpool entry. What the hell is up with Marvel’s summer event?

Story: 5.5 Art: 6 Overall: 5.75

Fear Itself: Spider-Man #2 – The bright spot in the rather underwhelming Fear Itself. The story focuses not just on Spider-Man but how others are gripping with fear. It’s a solid story telling technique and really stands out in a pretty poor summer event.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #1 – Just when you think a Flashpoint book can’t get any better, this one comes along. A solid story and great art, this one just makes me want a Rogues focused comic post Flashpoint (can we at least get some in the anthology book?!). Beyond good.

Story: 9.5 Art: 9 Overall: 9.25

Flashpoint: Deathstroke and the Curse of the Ravager #1 – A pretty simple pirate tale following Deathstroke and his crew as he hunts for his daughter. The story is good and Flahspoint acts more as a background than anything. An entertaining read that plays off of the world it’s set in quite well.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Flashpoint: Emperor Aquaman #1 – What lead up to Atlantis’s attack on the surface world and the war with the Amazons? You get a good idea in this book, though I’m not completely convinced and there’s definitely holes and questions left to be answered.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #1 – A somewhat updated take on the Frankenstein and the Warner monsters. The story is ok, but there’s some issues with parts of the story taking place in theory before the world shifted. We’ll see if that piece of story plays into the switch back.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Ghost Rider #0.1 – Ghost Rider is getting a reboot and that seems to be complete. I used to be a die-hard Ghost Rider fan, but it seemed Marvel never quite knew how to handle the character. We’ll give this a chance to see if they can get it right this time. This first issue has promise, but doesn’t quite blow me out of the water.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

The Iron Age Alpha – Really not quite sure what to think. It’s another time travel story that seems to be unnecessary, or could be handled in the main series. Not sure I’ll be getting the first issue as this prelude did so little for me.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Journey Into Mystery #624 – Loki does what he knows best and schemes to get hell and hel on the side of Asgard in the battle to come. There’s a lot going on and the chess of it is somewhat fascinating. The new direction of the series is solid and very entertaining.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Mystery Men #1 – Though it feels a bit like The Twelve there’s some magic from that series is missing. This first issue is fun and I think the complete series will be a fun read, but the first issue was just ok. Maybe the complete whole will be greater than the sum of it’s parts.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

The New Avengers #13 – The team keeps taking on Superia and we finally learn what connects the story in the past with the story in the present. Also a major decision is made about Mockingbird. The issue has some great moments, but the arc as a whole was a bit uneven. A solid ending though, with a twist I didn’t see coming.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Supreme Power #1 – I read the first volume of the series many years ago and clearly I’ve missed a lot and will need to go back and catch up. A series that looks at the geo-political ramifications of nations controlling super powered beings!? Yes please!

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.75

the Unwritten #26 – We learn a bit more about the history and origin of Tom Taylor and with those reveals come even more mysteries. The series is thick and at times hard to understand but very rich at the same time as well as unpredictable.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Wolverine #10 – People Wolverine has wronged over the years band together to kill him and I roll my eyes at what seems to be the next piss poor Wolverine arc. Seriously this series is having some major issues.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

X-Men: Legacy #250 – For such a momentus issue the three stories presented are a bit blah. The first seems to be the new direction of the series and second shows us what’s sort of going on with some space faring mutants. The third is a reprint of the first meeting with Legion by the New Mutants. The art is so-so, but there’s a lot of potential here as far as story. Here’s hoping the series gets back on it’s feet.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75