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Best Comics of 2011

Posted on January 1, 2012 by Brett

It’s the first day of a new year and so that means we’re doing our “best of” listing of the top comic books for 2011. Generally these are comic books that came out in 2010, though some are from earlier times and we got around to reading them. Keep in mind, this is what I have read. If it’s not on here, I just might not have read it.

Best Super Hero Comic – Daredevil

Daredevil has had an interesting 2011, we started with Shadowland and then got Matt Murdock finding himself and then a relaunched back to basic series written by Mark Waid with art by Paolo Rivera. Shadowland wasn’t too bad, a bit uneven, but as a whole Marvel had issues with this year’s events. Seeing Murdock corrupt and the emotion from his friends was an interesting read. After you had Murdock wandering the country in short mini-series followed up by the relaunch.

It’s that relaunch that makes Daredevil stick out in my mind. It’s a comic I look forward to reading each month. Waid has given it a pulp action feel like classic Green Hornet or the Shadow and Rivera’s art is fantastic. The comic is just fun to read. On top of Waid’s take, Daredevil is now an Avenger and each of his brief appearances so far has enhanced that series. When you show up in an ensemble comic and steal the show, that says something.

Waid has set up a lot going into 2012, can’t wait to see how it turns out.

Runner Ups – Moon Knight, Uncanny X-Force, Aquaman

Best Non-Super Hero Comic –DMZ

Is there a more politically relevant comic book series out there? Every month we’re given something to think about as we follow Matty Roth through Manhattan which is now a DMZ in the middle of the second American Civil War.

Writer Brian Wood is able to pivot and comment on what’s currently happening in politics and the world challenging our perceptions and not seem preachy at the same time.

With some single issues that stand as some of the best of the year and numerous holy shit moments, this isn’t just one of the most relevant comics out there, but some of the best political commentary of any entertainment medium. Fittingly, this final week also brought us the final issue of the series, a perfect way to end the year.

Runner Ups – American Vampire, Chew, The Walking Dead

Best Limited Series or One Shot – Criminal: The Last Of The Innocent

Really, just sign me up for whatever Ed Brubaker and Sean Philips have in store. This latest volume of their crime/noir series from Marvel/Icon gave us a shit-head of a main character and kept us on our toes as to what to expect. Sean Philips also showed us something new by changing up the art style every so often.

These two are one of the best teams in comic books today. Early 2012 brings us Fatale from them to be published by Image which is more horror/noir. Hopefully we’ll be seeing another volume of this series as well.

I’m a huge fan up pulp/noir comics, and this is the gold standard by which all others are judged. Just fantastic.

Runner Ups – Critical Millennium, Severed, 27: Second Set

Best Single Issue – Transformers #22 and #23

Technically it’s two issues, but the story is spread out between the two issues and either stands out as the best. On top of that Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime reflects on what’s discussed in these issues as well. Megatron is captured and the two issues reflect on his and Optimus’ past and how they became who they are. Flash forward to the present and the two leaders debate politics and motives. It’s an adult discussion coming from two giant robots.

DMZ might have been “the” political discussion of the year, but these two issues I just didn’t expect it from. Absolutely fantastic and enough to give me pause and make me think.

What’s the difference between a terrorist and freedom fighter? Find out in these issues.

Worst Single Issue of the Year – Holy Terror

Just a holy piece of crap. This is up there as one of the worst things I’ve ever read. The graphic novel by legend Frank miller is racist, xenophobic, sexist and horribly written. Can’t believe we’ve waited so long to read it.

Runner Ups – The Infinite (any issue)

Best Graphic Novel/Trade Paperback – Green River Killer

Dark Horse’s Green River Killer is a true-crime story focused on the Green River serial killings. The writer was close to the subject, as his father was one of the lead detectives. The story has multiple layers, looking at how families were affected, the struggles the police went through and at the end, why the killer did what he did.

The graphic novel is haunting. I couldn’t stop thinking about it for many days it was that disturbing and unsettling. The art is good, but it’s the story that gets you. The whole time you’re wondering how they’re going to solve this, but also why is this happening.

Add in the fact this is a true story. It’s a disturbing true story. Being able to get some of the behind the scenes to a story I only know from newspapers and the nightly news, just adds more to it all.

Runner Ups – Any Empire, Jim Henson’s Tale of Sand

Best Event of the Year – Uncanny X-Force: The Dark Angel Saga

I’m counting this as an event, though it’s really a long story arc. Rick Remender has put together the best “X” book put out by Marvel. This event which saw the rise of a new Apocalypse in the form of Archangel and X-Force is all that stands in the way between him and world destruction.

Diving into “X” lore with trips to the Age of Apocalypse universe, this was a story for the hard core “X” fans. But, more than that, everything was thrown into it. You had no idea what was going to come next and what to expect.

It wasn’t until I finally read the last issue that I know the ending, that’s how much of a big question mark Remender gave us. The follow as well was fantastic as why characters did what they did and a new status-quo and direction were set.

Runner Ups – Artifacts, Flashpoint

Best Genre of the Year – Horror

Horror was where it was at this year with DC folding in some Vertigo books and some great limited series like Severed. Animal Man, Swamp Thing, I, Vampire, B.P.R.D. and more lead the way to dethroning last year’s winner, a bunch of shuffling zombies (though that’s also horror in a way). I’ve never been creeped out more and enjoyed it as much.

Runner Up – Steampunk, Zombie

Best Comic Tie-In of the Year – Batman: Arkham City

I enjoy a video game or two (dozen). One of the best video games of the year, not just comic book tie-ins was Batman: Arkham City which just brought more of the brawler game. There’s a reason many are naming this as one of the best video games of the year and it’s sold so well. It’s that damn good.

The downloadable material which seems to be coming as a steady flow, the fact you can play as so many characters, that all adds up to a comic book experience you can control. Add in amazing graphics, game play and there you have it, it’s a must buy video game.

Runner Up – Marvel Universe toys, DC Universe Super Heroes Legos

Best Comic Book Related Movie – Thor

This year’s crop of comic book related movies wasn’t as amazing as I’d hope, but it’s a solid bunch. Marvel’s batch as what stood out and all three really deserve to share the honors. Each was excellent and flawed in their own ways, but out of the three Thor holds up best.

The story is pretty standard, didn’t really challenge me at all, but the visuals and Chris Hemsworth’s acting is what really makes it all stand out. The flaws also are the least of the bunch with only the final fight between Thor and the Destroyer really bothering me.

Out of the bunch, this was also the highest grossing, showing it wasn’t just me that liked it.

Runner Ups – Captain America: The First Avenger, X-Men: First Class

Best Surprise of the Year – DC New 52

This is a mixed one as DC’s relaunch is also a disappointment, but I’ll address it all here. DC made a bold move this year to shake up their sagging line of comic books by starting from the beginning and relaunching the entire line. It was gutsy. On top of that, their digital initiative was bold.

The story that lead up to it all, Flashpoint, was pretty damn good and what came out of it as well. I took a chance on all fifty-two issues and came away with giving half of them a chance for the second issue. From there, I made further cuts, but today, I’m reading more comics from DC than I ever have and their higher volumes they’re selling that the initiative has worked for the short term.

The disappointing part is that they didn’t go far enough. The comics were pretty standard and we didn’t get anything out of the box. There also was a clear audience, adolescent males (or men stuck in their adolescence). While we saw more advertising to the general public, we haven’t seen a sustained campaign. For all their gains in 2011, I think we’ll see a good chunk of it erode in 2012.

Biggest Disappointment of the Year – Marvel Events

Fear Itself and it’s follow up were and are bad. X-Men: Schism was ok, but much better than what was before. Shadowland was uneven. Marvel has been having some issues when it comes to their events. I won’t call it overall event fatigue in the industry as others have put out quality and showed what works.

Too many tie-ins, stories not thought out and gimmicky tricks paved the way to a substandard experience.

Marvel relied on the tired gimmick of death, killing the Ultimate Spider-Man, Bucky, the Human Torch and more, that all made headlines but some of it is already undone. There’s only so many times you can call death before the masses catch on and shrugs their shoulders.

Already we’re heading into more events at Marvel in 2012, here’s hoping there’s some improvement.

Runner Up – Green Lantern (movie), DCnU

Best Character – Moon Knight

Moon Knight has always been a character that’s intrigued me. Brian Michael Bendis, along with amazing art by Alex Maleev, have given us a new series that really looks at the many personalities of Marc Spector. The new series really has fun with the idea having Moon Knight drawing upon his personalities at different points.

Moon Knight is the psychotic Batman, a super hero struggling with mental illness. But is he really suffering from it? And should it be this much enjoyable to read?

Publisher of the Year – Archaia

Archaia received the honor last year as well, so let me really explain my logic here. Lets start with the big two, Marvel and DC. Marvel’s line has suffered in 2011, they’re out. DC made a bold choice, but four months letter, it all feels empty. There’s quality, but there’s also a lot that just doesn’t excite.

BOOM! made it’s case towards the end of the year with some great original series, along with some on-goings that continue to show off their quality. Add in a lot of licensed comics and they’ve got a line that has something for everyone. There were also some busts, but they’ve got a great line of comics. Image Comics, for all the quality also has some major duds. Inconsistency is the issue, but their quality is some of the best out there.

Dark Horse has some amazing comics. A lot of big name licenses and some good original, but there’s a lot of series I read and just didn’t interest me. Their quality though is up there. If your a Star Wars or Buffy fan too, they put out excellent product. Then we come to IDW Publishing. A lot of license there too, and also a lot of original material. Each week I see their new releases, I get excited, as a whole, I’m probably interested in more of their monthly comics percentage wise than any other publisher, and it’s all excellent.

And the big winner is Archaia. I should start with the presentation of the books. Beautiful covers and packaging is the first thing that sticks out. Their entire line of graphic novels are beautiful to look at on a shelf. Then there’s what’s in between those fancy covers. The variety of the books and quality is unmatched. I can find something for everyone and hand out one of their series or a graphic novel and know I’m good with my choice. All of what I read was good to great and much challenges story telling and comic book visuals.

Licensed books, original books, it’s all here. And it’s amazing. There’s comics for kids and adults and books kids and adults will love together. Books from the US and Europe, we have different styles and perspectives, it’s like the publisher goes out of it’s way to present choice and variety. And it’s all good.

I said it last year and it still holds true this year, when I think Archaia, I think high quality and expect the best. They continue to not let me down.

Runner Up – IDW Publishing

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 12/21/11

Posted on December 29, 2011 by Brett

It’s the second last week of comics for the year. What was worth it? Find out below! A bit late, but better than never.

Avengers #20 – Osborn and his band have come out of the woodwork and get the Avengers off their game. As they attempt to kick up some leads, Osborn has some other plans. The story is really just a sliver of what’s going on as there’s more in the other Avengers title. Overall though, it feels like a solid threat for them to face and it’s pretty entertaining so far.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Batman #4 – Bruce and Dick have a conversation and we learn some earlier detective work Bruce did concerning the Court of Owls. Overall, these first four issues are a solid start and mystery that seems worthy of Batman and it’s a nice beginning for new and old fans alike.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

The Bionic Man #5 – It’s a new Bionic Man for a new century and Steve Austin has a whole new bag of tricks. Austin also meets his nemesis. It’s Bionic Man 1.0 versus Bionic Man 2.0, fight! The action is great, tech is cool, story and art top notch. I was never a big fan of the television show, but Kevin Smith and Phil Hester have done here like they’ve done for the Green Hornet, got me interested in an updated and fun property.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Captain Atom #4 – Captain Atom still attempts to figure out his role and tries on a military one for a bit. There’s also a bad guy moving around, looks like we have the first villain, whatever it is. The series is unique and I think amazing to look at. The art and coloring is so cool. Definitely a series I’m happy came out of DC’s shake up.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Daken: Dark Wolverine #18 – Daken seeks out the Runaways for help as the series begins to wind down. Daken’s battle with Roston continues, but the art seems to have dropped a bit. Sad this series never really took off, because when it was firing on all cylinders it was quite good.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Daredevil #7 – It’s a Christmas issue as Daredevil takes some kids out on a field trip, but of course that can’t go right. The art is fantastic and story pretty good. It’s a good single issue to check out to see what the buzz is all about. Mark Waid has made this one of the top series that Marvel is putting out.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

DC Universe Presents: Deadman #4 – Boston Brand wants to know the point of it all and to figure that out he has a chat with the Son of the Morningstar. This issue is one long philosophical debate about the meaning of life, death and our relationship to God. If you’re interested in those things, it’s a top notch issue that leaves you with more questions.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Fables #112 – In this Christmas theme issue, Rose Red must decide what type of avatar of hope she’s to become as she travels around A Christmas Carol style. There’s a lot set up here in an issue that for most would just seem like a holiday tie-in. The series is a slow build, and the latest arc is just getting under way.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Fantastic Four #601 – Wow, this issue puts the epic in galactic. The Kree decide to annihilate Earth, the Inhumans are pissed and Johnny Storm is in control of the Annihilation Wave. Jonathan Hickman has been leading up to this for what seems to be like years and it’s been completely worth it. Absolutely jaw dropping and exciting.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Fear Itself: The Fearless #5 – Um, that was a bit easy. Crossbones gets yet another hammer, this one was ridiculously easy to get. The follow up to Marvel’s stinker even Fear Itself, is turning out not much better.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Generation Hope #14 – The team finds Sebastian Shaw and fight some really random enemy that’s not fleshed out at all. It might have been just better to have them find the “new light” and deal with Pakastani military, especially with what’s going on. Overall, just ok.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Green Lanterns Corps. #4 – The Corps. has had to retreat and try to figure out what they’re up against when a being decides to help them out. Looks like this enemy might be part of a much bigger storyline. Can’t say I dig the eventual reveal as to what they sort of are, but it’s all pretty interesting.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

the Invincible Iron Man #511 – All hell is breaking loose for Stark. It’s gotten out about his drinking, he’s dealing with getting the crap beat out of him and Stark Resilient is under assault as well. Matt Fraction keeps up the heat and the series is running strong after it’s slight distraction from Marvel’s summer event. He’s used that to make Stark’s life even crazier and set up more obstacles for him. Just excellent.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Justice League #4 – The team continues to get together as Cyborg gets rolling. It’s just a slice of the bigger story and doesn’t stand on it’s own, but there’s a lot here to enjoy. Darkseid makes his appearance and we learn their goal (but can’t say I generally like it). The team dynamic is getting there though. As a single issue, it’s a skip if you haven’t read the previous three but it’s good as part of the bigger storyline.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5

New Mutants #35 – It’s the New Mutants versus a band with powers. Um yeah… can’t say the series is getting me really pumped.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Nightwing #4 – Barbara Gordon pays a visit to Dick and they take on a bad guy trying to sell some microchips. The story is ok, but it’s really about the interaction with Babs and Dick. The rest you can skip.

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

Supergirl #4 – Supergirl is captured and is still figuring out her new world and powers. The story is pretty good to start off the series and the fish out of water aspect is a nice twist. She doesn’t know who Superman is, what happened to her world or why she’s on Earth, all of it creates a mystery that’s entertaining and makes me want to stick around.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #5 – An interesting story that flashes back and forth between the modern day and feudal Japan. The stories I guess are tied together, but I don’t quite pick it up. There’s also a nice Christmas theme about it all as well, with the Turtles finally getting something we’ve been waiting to see. A perfect jumping on point for new folks.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Thunderbolts #167 – The Thunderbolts, through time! I’m just not feeling this storyline, though their arc dealing with Jack the Ripper is done with. There’s nothing bad about the comic, but can’t say I’m really enjoying it either.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #5 – Miles is wearing Peter’s costume and some folks think that’s a bit disrespectful. It’s Miles Morales versus Nick Fury, Spider-Woman, Hawkeye and Iron Man… sort of. The group has to decide what to do with the new Spider-Man and Fury has a bit of a chat. I’ll admit by the end I had a smile on my face. Instead of disrespecting what’s come before Miles and writer Brian Michael Bendis are honoring what’s come before.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Force #19 – With the epic story closed, where does X-Force go from here. There’s Genesis to deal with and that leads to Logan and Hank having a tense conversation. There’s also now a goal for X-Force. It’s going to be the fighting force to make sure the kids don’t have to. Through evil deeds, good may come. There’s also the question as to why Fantomex did what he did. That’s discussed and turns pretty interesting as well. Rick Remender has given us the best “X” series hands down.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Venom #11 – Hmm, that was certainly interesting. Jack O’Lantern and Venom are doing the comic book version of a buddy road trip and a good chunk of the comic has the two of them in a diner. That’s the part that just blew me away. Discussion of Jack O’Lantern’s origin is just twisted and that ending made my jaw drop. This is a solid issue when it slows down and focuses on the characters and what makes them.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5

Wolverine #20 – Wait, what the hell just happened? How is HE back!?

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Wolverine & the X-Men #3 – The team continues to fight Krakoa and Sauron and Wendigo as the Hellfire Club watches. The issue is kinetic fun and just over the top. I found myself laughing and enjoying the action. The characters are fun and entertaining. Out of the two factions now the “X” series has split, Wolverine’s has the edge.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Wonder Woman #4 – Wonder Woman gets away and Hera pays a visit to Paradise Island. It’s all very interesting backed up with some fantastic artwork. Wonder Woman has become one of the best series of DC’s new 52.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

X-Factor #229 – Um, what the hell is going on? Looks like Madrox is being pulled to different worlds as other versions of himself dies. It could be interesting or it could make no sense, like it does right now.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

X-23 #19 – The art is absolutely fantastic, story… not so much.

Story: 6.5 Art: 9 Overall: 7

Around the Tubes

Posted on December 27, 2011 by Brett

It’s the last week of the year, here’s the news that plays this year off keyboard cat…

Around the Blogs:

eManga – Read Vampire Hunter D for free!

Bleeding Cool – Buy Los Angeles’ Golden Apple Comic Store For $679,000. Now. – I’ve got $20, who else wants to go in with me.

Bleeding Cool – DC Entertainment Demands Removal Of Watchmen 2 Artwork, Bleeding Cool Complies – Now under SOPA…

CBLDF – There’s Still Time To Fight Censorship in 2011! Please Make A Tax-Deductible Donation Today! – Actually, my $20 will go to this.

Around the Tubes Reviews:

CBR – Birds of Prey #4

CBR – Incredible Hulk #3

CBR – Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #5

CBR – Uncanny X-Force #19

Pick of the Week – Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime

Posted on December 20, 2011 by Brett

Let me say I read this and loved it. IDW‘s Transformers has been one of my favorite series of the years mixing great action featuring the giant alien robots I love with adult plots of politics and intrigue. Some of the best issues of the year (#22 and #23) are in a way reference in this issue as the idea of revolution is debated and once again the opposing philosophies and actions of the Decepticons and Autobots is talked about. This isn’t your kids toys. This is the issue that sets up two upcoming series that plot the further struggles of these alien beings as they rebuild post war.

In a simple issue, Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime is an allegory about winning the peace and the last ten years of Iraqi occupation are summed up and laid out for all of us to understand. It’s difficult for a solider to lay down their arms and rebuild, it’s not what they’re trained to do. This issue is that first step to see if they can learn how.

Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime – see above
Lady Mechanika #3 – I read it, it’s fantastic.
Uncanny X-Force #19 – Remender has been knocking it out of the park. It looks like this series will have something to do with the Age of Apocalypse, sign me up.
Memorial #1 – I’ll be reading this tomorrow morning, but Chris Roberson’s latest has me really psyched. Been looking forward to this one since it was announced.
Fantastic Four #601 – Issue 600 left me with my jaw dropped, I really want to see what happens next.

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 12/14/11

Posted on December 18, 2011 by Brett

It’s a good mix of comics this week including a bunch I’ve been waiting to read. What’s worth it? Find out below!

American Vampire #21 – We get some insight into who Skinner is, but still not how he became what he is. That’s the story I thought was being told, but it’s clear that this story arc was just one small piece of the larger puzzle that Scott Snyder will eventually reveal. Much like his general writing style, even with the bigger story telling, Snyder takes his time, laying it out in a slow, but enjoyable reveal.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Avengers Academy #23 – The plot of future Reptil coming back to make sure his timeline happens is rather interesting, but there’s something that’s missing to me as far as the writing. The art too isn’t as top notch as I’d expect from an important title like this. As with the characters, there’s something that just seems junior to me. It’s an improvement in the series, but still not enough for me to consider it an “A” title.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Avengers: X-Sanction #1 – This is the first step in the big Avengers vs. X-Men fight that reaches it’s full blown madness in a few months. Cable is back to prevent a disaster in the future and to do that he has to take on the Avengers. It all revolves around Hope too, and with all the mystery surrounding her, this event has the potential to reveal a hell of a lot. The first issue is interesting and pretty solid, but quite of a few of Marvel’s recent events have started out strong too only to stumble. We’ll see if this one can buck that trend.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5

Batgirl #4 – We finally find out how Barbara is walking, even if it’s just a few panels and her battle with Mirror comes to an end in this holiday themed issue. Overall the comic is pretty good as expected with Gail Simone behind the wheel, but it still nags me about Barbara Gordon now walking. That’s not Simone’s fault, but it’s still the elephant in the room as it feels insulting to those who are in wheelchairs or who have other disabilities. The comic is good though, even with the rather lame villain.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Batman and Robin #4 – We learn a bit as to who Nobody is as the villain and Batman fight for Damian’s loyalty. It’s interesting these two so easily represent the dual sides of Damian, but it’s also so obvious this is the intent. The comic doesn’t have subtlety, but the story is entertaining and art very solid. Overall a good addition to the Bat family of comics.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Batwoman #4 – Flamebird gets her butt whooped as Batwoman continues to search for the missing children and attempts to have a social life. The story as usual isn’t the draw here, it’s all about the art which continues to be amazing. Hopefully the storytelling will get to the level of the art and layout and at that point, this’ll be one of the best comics out there. Until then, it’s only for people looking for something beautiful to look at.

Story: 7.25 Art: 9 Overall: 7.5

Battle Scars #2 – The mystery of Marcus Johnson isn’t revealed in this second issue…. maybe the next one? The comic is ok, but nothing that’s gotten me too excited.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #526 – In a plot that’s rather appropriate in today’s anti-corporate fervor, we find out exactly what Wilson Fisk wants with the Bank of Wakanda. The story is pretty solid in it’s chess like plot and the art is always great.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Green Lantern #4 – Jordan and Sinestro versus the entire Sinestro Corps. But, what happens when they fail? Captured and surrounded by people that hate them, Sinestro and Jordan have to figure out how to escape and free an enslaved world that despises them.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Iron Man 2.0 #11 – Just one more issue to go with Warmachine taking on a nano tech villain. It’s been an interesting story, but nothing quite amazing. The art in this issue though takes a dip as a few different folks hop in to put it all together. The usual interesting and unique look changes a bunch and often in a jarring way.

Story: 7.25 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Magneto: Not a Hero #2 – What the hell is going on? Unless you’re a die-hard “X” fan and care about Joseph/Erik/Magneto, this comic just makes little sense for the folks who haven’t been reading for decades.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

the New Avengers #19 – It’s Norman Osborn’s new Dark Avengers and a lot of discussion of what worked, what didn’t and why this team is better. At the same time the new Avengers discuss Norman being loose and it looks like they have a traitor in their midst.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Resurrection Man #4 – A bunch of crazy in this issue as various forces merge to get Shelley back. There’s heaven and hell and two women sporting big guns and a guy calling himself Transhuman. The series is pretty crazy, but something very entertaining and interesting about it all.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

S.H.I.E.L.D. #4 – Is this in continuity? There’s some things shown here that are pretty huge if this is happening in the 616 world. As usual, a lot I like in the series but also a lot that’s a bit dense and hard to get in to.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Suicide Squad #4 – The cover lays it out there “betrayed by one of their own,” but who it is and why definitely caught me off guard. The second arc comes to a close and leads directly into the third. The series isn’t the tops out there and needs a bit more fine tuning to turn it into a solid Dirty Dozen type comic, but it’s still entertaining to read.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Superboy #4 – Superboy is given a choice after it’s clear who and what Red is. But, in his wandering to figure it all out, Superboy comes off as a dick. It’s interesting to follow this series, just because of it’s tie into Teen Titans, but without that, there’s not a whole lot that’s enjoyable about this Superboy.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Ultimate Comics X-Men #4 – Well, hell, I totally didn’t expect that and see that coming. Stryker attacks New York while the US government and the remaining X-Men have to figure out how to respond. The story is very familiar, but just different enough to keep me on my toes. The Ultimate universe is one where anything can happen and it does.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Force #18 – Well that was one hell of an ending and I have to say I got a bit emotional for part of it, but still not sure why there was a bag. Rick Remender’s epic story of the rise of the new Apocalypse goes out with a bang and deserves to be put up there as one of the best “X” stories ever. Solid on every level.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

The Walking Dead #92 – Just when you think writer Robert Kirkman is going to go in one direction, he throws something at you that you weren’t expecting. This issue really shakes up the series and I’m sure you’re jaw dropped at the ending like mine.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Around the Tubes

Posted on December 16, 2011 by Brett

The comic industry lost two greats yesterday. Check out below for some of the thoughts on them.

Around the Blogs:

Marvel – Marvel Remembers Joe Simon

DC – Remembering Joe Simon

Comics Alliance – Veteran Comic Book Artist Eduardo Barreto, R.I.P.

Around the Tubes Reviews:

ICv2 – Gate 7 Vol. 1 TP

CBR – Uncanny X-Force #18

IGN – Comic Book Reviews for 12/14/11

Publishers Weekly – Comics Reviews December 2011

Around the Tubes

Posted on November 15, 2011 by Brett

Tuesday is here and the previews begin…. while you wait for us to post up what you can expect his Wednesday, here’s the news you might have missed.

Around the Blogs:

Publishers Weekly – X-Men Writer Chris Claremont Donates Archive to Columbia University – I’d love to see publishers get in on this.

ICv2 – New Marvel Collectible Game – What drugs were people doing when they came up with this?

Bleeding Cool – Ch-Ch-Changes At The DCU For February – Aka, the change I’ll be saving from some books I get to dump.

Around the Tubes Reviews:

CBR – Incredible Hulk #2

Spandexless – Spaceman #1

CBR – Uncanny X-Force #17

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

Dreams Die.

Posted on November 12, 2011 by Brett

DARK ANGEL SAGA CONCLUSION

Don’t miss the shocking conclusion to the critically acclaimed Dark Angel Saga from the blockbuster creative team of Rick Remender, Jerome Opeña & Dean White, this December in the polybagged Uncanny X-Force #18!

Think you know the outcome? Join the conversation on Twitter with #XForce!

UNCANNY X-FORCE #18 (OCT110676)
UNCANNY X-FORCE #18 SPOILER VARIANT (OCT110677)
Written by RICK REMENDER
Pencils by JEROME OPEÑA
Colors by DEAN WHITE
Cover by ESAD RIBIC
FOC – 11/14/11, ON SALE – 12/7/11

Whose Death Is It, Anyway?

Posted on November 10, 2011 by Brett

DARK ANGEL SAGA CONCLUSION

Think you know the outcome? Join the conversation on Twitter with #XForce!

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