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Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/29/11

Posted on July 3, 2011 by Brett

It’s a holiday weekend and what better way to spend it than sitting back and enjoying a stack of new comic books. We read through to figure out which were worth the purchase so you don’t have to. Check out below what was worth the cash and which we wish we didn’t spend the money on.

American Vampire #16 – We get a better sense as to why the team was captured and what the facility is and Skinner’s identity is revealed. There’s a few bad ass moments in this issue, especially that last panel. Such a great series that gets better with every story arc.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Avengers: The Children’s Crusade #6 – Some interesting revelations and one hell of an ending. Is this what really causes the upcoming schism in the mutants? And how does the world react to the Scarlet Witch returning? We’ve got three issues to go in the series that’s been delayed a wee bit too much.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Fear Itself: Black Widow #1 – The issue could stand on it’s own and having Fear Itself emblazoned on it, made me go in with a negative reaction straight out. This one shot is actually pretty good, but the art at times is a bit off.

Story: 8 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.75

FF #5 – Much of the cosmic end of the Marvel universe has lately revolved around finding Black Bolt, well, he just kind of shows up at the end of this issue, and causes me to just say “huh!?”. The issue has some lows and highs and as usual falls into Hickman’s writing style where not all issues are winners, but the overall story is excellent and even those low points are vital.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Flashpoint: The Canterbury Cricket #1 – The first dud of Flashpoint, I just don’t see the point of this issue (yet). The feel to it is vintage 80s which might be part of the issue, but overall it’s the origin issue of a character that I just don’t see playing a big enough role he needs one. Hopefully I’ll be proven wrong.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.25

Flashpoint: Green Arrow Industries #1 – It’s an interesting story that sees what Oliver Queen’s up to in this new world but the story jumps at a weird point and the art is inconsistent. Maybe this is the week that Flashpoint puts out the duds?

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

Flashpoint: Hal Jordan #1 – See what Hal Jordan’s up to in this new world. It’s not quite what I was expecting considering Abin Sur’s role, but we’ll see where everything goes in this three issue series.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Flashpoint: Project Superman #1 – The story is a bit choppy, and takes you a bit to figure out how this aligns with the greater Flashpoint story, but it’s a cool take on Superman, and it has potential to be a very solid mini-series.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #11 – Um, what happened to the War of the Green Lanterns storyline? That hasn’t exactly wrapped yet…

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

Incorruptible #19 – Wow, so that was an ending I wasn’t expecting. Max Damage spends the issue trying to convince Whelan to stand up and lead the city out of chaos while the villains gather to do something. Damage also discusses his role and what he can contribute. In this one issue I can see so many directions the series can go and grow. And trust me, that last page will get your jaw to drop.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

Marvel Universe vs. Wolverine #1 – A prequel to Marvel Universe vs. the Punisher. We get to see how the plague began and Wolverine hunting for the killer of his friend. The art, the atmosphere and mood and the comic just have the scent of foreboding doom all about it. Very cool stuff.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Uncanny X-Men #539 – Logan and Hope have some bonding time and I just count down until the shake up.

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

Venom #4 – The series is a decent one and pretty entertaining. I just wished Spider-Man was saved for a later date.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

The Walking Dead #86 – After so many issues, the series continues to find new directions and themes to explore. In a world so full of dread and despair, writer Robert Kirkman finally gives us the hope we’ve been looking for. There’s also a flip copy of Elephantmen: Man and Elephantman #1 to check out at no extra cost.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

X-Men: Prelude to Schism #4 – Four issues that builds up to the big “X” event and we still don’t know what the threat is. The players have been focused on and we have a lot of foreshadowing, but we still get to wait to see what the fuss is all about. I’m not sure it needed four issues, but I can understand what it’s all about.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/22/11

Posted on June 26, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books dominated by some that made headlines. Flashpoint and Fear Itself continue their march on our wallets. What’s worth it, and what should you skip? Find out below.

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #520 – It’s the Black Panther and Storm versus Kraven the Hunter. The story was ok and there’s a decent resolution but overall the story left me wanting more, especially due to the fact Kraven has had some classic stories in the past.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Brightest Day Aftermath: The Search for Swamp Thing #1 – I know of the character John Constantine a bit and not really familiar with Swamp Thing at all, but this follow up to Brightest Day seems to fit the role of properly inducting the both of them into the DC universe. The first issue is fun and interesting enough to make me want to check out the second issue.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Captain America #619 – The story of Bucky’s incarceration continues as his friends work on getting him out and figure out exactly what’s going on. We find out what the Russians have been looking for and the transition of Steve Rogers becoming Cap again continues. It hasn’t been the smoothing transition back with Fear Itself in full swing, but it at least makes sense in moving the story forward.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Dark Horse Presents #2 – Dark Horse’s second issue continues the quality we saw in the first with a mix of styles both in stories and art and though not everything carries over from that first issue, it’s still high quality. Some things work better than others, but it’s well worth the purchase.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Deadpool #39 – To me the series has dropped a bit in quality falling way too much in the slapstick side of things. I prefer the X-Force Deadpool versus this one that just comes off like a goofball. I think this is it for me. I really haven’t enjoyed the series in a while.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6.25

DMZ #66 – A self contained story focused on Zee who has played the role of second fiddle for most of the series. Instead we get inside of her head as to why she saved Matty on that day and her thoughts on her role in the DMZ. It’s a powerful story that just shows the amazing narrative of this series. Sadly, it also means we’re heading into the final story arc of the series.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Fables #106 – It’s the end of the story involving Mister Dark which comes not with a bang, but much of a whimper. A lot of the issue is left for reflection more than anything and while it’s solid, it also feels like something was missing.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Flashpoint: Kid Flash Lost #1 – Whatever happened to Kid Flash? I’m pretty sure this is the future of the Flashpoint world and it’s pretty cool as the series sets up even further mysteries surrounding this new world. The art is nice and gets you right into the action slowly revealing what’s going on. As usual, a solid Flashpoint tie-in.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Flashpoint: Lois Lane and the Resistance #1 – We get a better sense of what’s going on with the Amazon’s new world as Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen get caught behind enemy lines. The story is a little forced at times and there’s some potential here that’s hinted upon, but unfortunately can’t be followed up on. Not the best of the Flashpoint tie-ins, but still better than a lot of what else is out there.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Flashpoint: Reverse Flash #1 – Wow and holy crap. We get a real good sense as to what the Reverse Flash has been up to and this first issue just knocks it out of the park. So evil, and so messed up, we get motivation, action and chills throughout. Such a solid issue and I can’t wait to see what the rest of this three issue limited series has up it’s sleeve.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: The Outsider #1 – While set in the world of Flashpoint, this first issue doesn’t initially seem to have a major impact in the overall story like other series. Even so, it’s a great comic with a hard edge and a main character I’m hoping to see more of post DC relaunch/reboot. Just a badass first issue.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

G.I. Joe: Cobra #2 – I’ve become a huge fan of all three G.I. Joe series as the action and consequences have kicked up from what I remembered. All three series takes different looks at the leadership void in Cobra and the scrambling to fill it. It’s a solid story and plot that seems rather relevant in today’s world.

Story: 8.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8.25

Iron Man 2.0 #6 – The Immortal Weapons and War Machine are called in to take on two of the hammer wielders. As expected the issue is a bit of a let down, but there’s twist at the end that I’m interested in seeing where it leads. A so-so issue that’s killing the momentum the series had by forcing it to tie into Fear Itself.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Mystery Men #2 – The second issue of the series is entertaining and fun and overall I think this five issue limited series will be a fun read, but there’s one moment in this issue that just comes out of the blue and seems really forced and a bit too convenient. I think in the end this will be a good pulp read, but don’t think it’ll be Earth shattering.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Namor: The First Mutant #11 – And that’s a wrap for the series. I can’t say it ever really lived up to it’s potential, but the finale has a decent ending to it. There’s a lot of open threads and a lot is left on the table, but it’s good to see this series put out of it’s misery.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

New Mutants #26 – There’s a bunch that works here and also so much that doesn’t. Overall this new direction isn’t feeling so much as new, as it’s what we’ve seen before. The art is off and dialogue a bit unimpressive. Here’s hoping the series gets a major shake up post “X” event.

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

Secret Avengers #14 – A Fear Itself tie-in that focuses on Valkyrie and how she got that role. The story is predictable and doesn’t have the emotional oomph it should, a forgettable issue overall.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Thunderbolts #159 – Three stories and all are actually pretty good. They involve different aspects of the escape from the Raft and all three are entertaining, which is not expected since they’re Fear Itself tie-ins. A good read even on it’s own.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #160 – There was a lot of media coverage and hype of this issue and I can say I was underwhelmed. There was a way more emotional impact that could have been done but instead we get the vast majority of the issue being a so-so fight and then just a few panels dealing with Peter’s “death” and the reaction to it. Maybe those more vested in the series would have enjoyed it.

Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.25

Wolverine #11 – This particularly back story as to why this person wants revenge on Wolverine is good, but overall the plot is pretty blah. Add in some really odd art that looks like ink thumbprint smudges all over. This Wolverine series hasn’t quite lived up to it’s past glory.

Story: 7.5 Art: 6.5 Overall: 7.25

X-Men: Legacy #251 – The team takes on two more of Legion’s personalities and there’s some cool moments here. Overall, the series is showing a lot of improvement with it’s new direction.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/15/11 Part 2

Posted on June 21, 2011 by Brett

This is the second part of the weekly comic book reviews. Some decent comics in this bunch as well as some duds.

Graveyard of Empires #1 – What starts off as one hell of a war comic turns into something totally different by the end and now I have no idea what to expect with the second issue. All I can say is wow. This is a comic that just knocks you on your ass in so many ways.

Story: 10 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.75

Green Hornet #16 – Two vigilantes are duped in taking on the Hornet in this ok issue. Something was off, in what usually is a fantastic series. The art, was especially not quite up to par as usual. Overall, probably the weakest of the series so far.

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

Invincible Iron Man #505 – I’ve generally been down on the Fear Itself event, but this tie-in is actually pretty good. The highlight really is Tony’s reflection on what’s going on in Paris and what it all means. Through all of the action, there’s a lot of character development going on.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Kirby: Genesis #1 – Uh, a very interesting way to introduce everyone that probably would play better on the movie or television screen, but is a bit choppy for a comic book. A lot of set up, with very little substance.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Mega Man #2 – The series seems to be progressing quickly as Mega Man has to deal with three different robots and has some reservations about it. The comic reminds me of the fantastic cartoon series that used to be on. Hopefully, it doesn’t progress too quickly.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Power Girl #25 – The second part of the “Muslim Metahuman” story arc that’s not quite as good as the first part. There’s a lot of fighting, and a neat and tidy ending. Generally as a two part story it’s solid, but on it’s own, this issue is pretty lackluster.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Uncanny X-Men #538 – Wow, did I dislike this Breakworld storyline. It seemed rushed and so many other things, but the art’s decent.

Story: 6.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7

X-Factor #221 – What the hell is going on!? As a single issue, it’s meh, but I’m sure as part of the greater story arc it’d make much more sense.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

X-Men #13 – It’s the third part of the “First to Last” storyline and there’s a lot of retconning going on as well as somethings I didn’t see coming. Overall, the story is growing on me and I’m looking forward to see where it goes.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

X-Men: Prelude to Schism #3 – A threat bears down on Utopia and Cyclops makes his decision as to whether to stay and fight or run. The series has gotten better as it’s gone along, but I’m a bit perplexed as to how it’s leading to what it’s leading to and have no idea who or what the threat is.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/15/11 Part 1

Posted on June 20, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books this week dominated by event tie-ins. What’s worth your hard earned dollars and what should be recycled? Find out below. This is the first part with the second running tomorrow.

Alpha Flight #1 – Much like the #0.1 issue, this first one shows a lot of promise, but doesn’t quite blow me away like a first issue should. I definitely ended the book with a “what the hell?” and want to see what comes next, but this definitely isn’t a comic I’d enthusiastically recommend.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Avengers #14 – A Fear Itself tie-in continues the interview story telling technique as the Avengers tell their take on Ben Grimm’s transformation and the Red Hulk’s role on the team. It’s a decent story if a bit brief in substance.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Avengers Academy #15 – A Fear Itself tie-in as the students head to war but are they too young, too inexperienced? The teachers have to split from the students to take on other threats in a decent tie-in to Marvel’s summer event.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Cinderella: Fables are Forever #5 – Ok, so that was a twist ending that was a bit much, even for a series based off of our favorite fairy tales. Something was just off with that part, but it’s definitely entertaining to think about.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Daken: Dark Wolverine #10 – Daken heads to LA to take over another city and this first part of a new arc is a bit choppy in the story telling, but as usual holds a lot of promise for a character that doesn’t get the respect he deserves. It’ll all come down to see how this unfolds, but so far so good.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Fear Itself: The Home Front #3 – Four more short stories about the goings on with Fear Itself. The main one is Speedball’s experience during the event with the second main story about the Agents of Atlas. The one pages about a woman’s move to Paris is the best of the bunch with the story about Cardiac coming in a close second. Out of all of the tie-ins for the event. This one is consistently one of the best.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

Fear Itself: Youth in Revolt #2 – The C list characters are put to the test but really the point on this limited series is to see what happens to Thor Girl with her Asgardian connections. The story is one of the better series having to do with Fear Itself, but still not as good as events past.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #1 – As seems to be the case with the Flashpoint tie-ins, quality is the name of the game. For DC’s summer and world changing event, the art and story has been kicked up a notch and for the first time ever, got me excited about the DC world. This one has a bit of a twist combining numerous characters we will recognize and I don’t want to give away too much as this first issue is very fun.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Grodd of War #1 – After conquering Africa was is a leader to do. Conquest is about recognition and accomplishment, it’s a challenge and when Grodd has finished his main quest he gets rather, well, bored. What’s a leader to do. This one shot focuses on the would be ruler of the world, and his slice of the world of Flashpoint. Quite good.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Legion of Doom #1 – Another Flashpoint tie-in and another quality mini-series. This issue focuses on the villains of the world and a prison they are housed in. It’s pretty damn cool, and it’ll be interesting to see how this all comes together with the main story.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5

Flashpoint: Wonder Woman and the Furies #1 – What caused the rift between Wonder Woman and Aquaman? This first issue has all of the answers and it’s much more Shakespearean than imagined. A fantastic first issue that’s right up there as one of the best.

Story: 9.25 Art: 9 Overall: 9.25

Generation Hope #8 – A pretty decent issue for a series I’ve generally been down on. The X-Men go to court to keep Teon and we learn more about his powers and not all is what it seems. It’s a really good issue for the series, now, if only they can keep the quality up.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

G.I. Joe: Snake Eyes #2 – A slice of the “Cobra Civil War” storyline, Snake Eyes and a few Joes are on a mission to find a mysterious member of Cobra. The story and all three G.I. Joe comics have been fantastic. I can’t wait to see where it all goes.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Story: 10 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.75

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 6/1/11

Posted on June 5, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books this week as the two “main events” of the summer go head to head as Fear Itself and Flashpoint both see the release of their main titles in the same week. Which is worth it, and which can you skip? Find out below.

Astonishing X-Men #39 – The team on Japan continues to fight Mentallo and his brigade of monsters. The story is ok, but I don’t see how it’s “astonishing” in any way or stands apart from the other “X” comics.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Avengers Academy #14.1 – There continues to be a lot of buzz about how this is the best Avengers comic book, but honestly I just don’t get it. This point one issue doesn’t make the case at all as to why I should pick up the series or stand out in anyway other than being about the “next” generation of Avengers. It’s an ok series, but nothing special.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #1 – When it comes to the modern crime comic, there’s one series that stands heads and shoulders about the rest and that’s Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips’ Criminal. This is the first time I’ve decided to not wait for the trade, and I’m so happy I made that decision. Utter perfection.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

Fear Itself #3 – The big Marvel event of the year hasn’t quite delivered as I’d hope it would. Instead the story has been a bit convoluted and not really explain what’s going on. What should be amazing moments haven’t had the impact one would hope. Overall, pretty dissapointing.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Fear Itself: The Deep #1 – While everyone else is dealing with the disaster on the land, someone has to defend the sea and that team is headed up by Namor and Dr. Strange in another underwhelming Fear Itself tie-in.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint #2 – DC’s entry into the big summer event lives up to that event moniker and brings the awesome. The world is warped and Barry Allen is on a mission to correct things. But who could see what’s being delivered here coming. Such a fantastic event that it’s making me a DC fanboy.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Abin Sur – The Green Lantern #1 – In a world where Hal Jordan never received the ring, Abin Sur still protects Earth and Sinestro is still a Green Lantern. So much is different but it’s all cool. This limited series shows how to pull off the event tie-in.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance #1 – Another solid entry when it comes to Flashpoint. In this world Bruce died and his father lived. What would that do to a man, a husband, a father? With a different world comes different rules, and this one seems pretty damn interesting.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Secret Seven #1 – The first miss of Flashpoint. If you don’t know these characters or their background at all, it’s hard to understand exactly what’s going on. Maybe the next issues will give a better idea, but just reading the first, it’s a jumbled mess.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Flashpoint: The World of Flashpoint #1 – Though not quite up to snuff as other issues, this comic puts more of a face on the people that aren’t really meta dealing with the way the world is. It’s an entertaining comic, and not quite sure what I’d do different, but it didn’t leave me with that “holy shit” feeling other comics have.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

G.I. Joe #2 – Such a solid entry into the G.I. Joe world. Cobra is throwing spasms as it attempts to find it’s next leader and that means everything is on the table and all hell is breaking loose. Such a great concept, that it’s got me looking forward to all three series and wanting to go back and see what I’ve missed.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Heroes for Hire #8 – Some times you need a series that’s just tons of fun and this one fits that bill nicely. The banter is great, stories entertaining, and art solid. There’s so much the series reminds me of, and all of it is fun.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Irredeemable #26 – Plutonian is gathering an army as he battles to the center of the insane asylum and I have no clue as to what to what Mark Waid has planned for this series. It’s seems the villain is being sought out to stop a bigger threat, but that’s a guess at this point. I’m sure whatever happens, it’ll be out of left field.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Moon Knight #2 – The second issue is just as solid as the first as Moon Knight has to deal with his personalities and at the same time figure out who’s trying to buy an Ultron. Such a solid series.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Secret Six #34 – It’s the aftermath of their unfortunate trip to hell and Bane goes on a date. I can see this not being a book that survives the DC relaunch/reboot which is a shame, because when it shines, it’s some of the best they have to offer.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

S.H.I.E.L.D. Vol 2 #1 – Much like the first volume, this second one makes sense, and doesn’t at the same time. It attempts to mix the feels of Watchmen and Earth X and doesn’t quite live up to either. It’s an interesting story, just not quite the blockbuster I was hoping for.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.25

Thunderbolts #158 – It’s a break out on the raft and this Fear Itself tie-in might hold up better than others due to the fact it’s focus is the raft and containing a jail break.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Uncanny X-Force #11 – The return to the Age of Apocalypse by X-Force might be the most entertaining thing Marvel does this summer. Just beyond solid and entertaining, this is easily the best “X” book on the market.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

X-Factor #220 – Rahne and Shatterstar spend the day together to get to know each other and there’s an ending I wasn’t expecting at all. Not the best story, but there’s some good parts.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

X-Men #12 – An interesting concept, but inconsistent art and some retconning has me a bit iffy on the storyline.

Story: 7.25 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

X-23 #11 – X-23, Gambit, Wolverine and Jubilee continue their Paris adventure as they track down an “evil scent.”

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 5/25/11

Posted on June 4, 2011 by Brett

It was a long weekend and week and I took my time with last week’s reviews. It was a pretty thick stack of books though. Here’s what was worth the purchase and what should have been left on the shelf. Expect another edition this Sunday for this week’s releases.

American Vampire #15 – The battle against the new breed of vampires rages on in this excellent war meets vampire story arc. What’s the secret of the island and why are these vampires so different? We’re slowly learning the secrets in this excellently paced comic story.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Astonishing Spider-Man & Wolverine #6 – The story didn’t always make sense, but at the same time it was a hell of a lot of fun. Spider-Man and Wolverine’s adventure through time is over in a rather convoluted sort of way. It was definitely fun and an entertaining read. Here’s hoping we get a second volume of this.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Booster Gold #44 – There was a lot of buzz about this comic book that came out last week. It was definitely entertaining and I can understand why folks enjoyed it, but generally the humor wasn’t for me. But I see this being the sleeper of the the entire Flashpoint storyline.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Captain America #618 – The mystery of why Bucky has been sent to Russia deepens as it turns out to be a bigger conspiracy than expected. There’s rumors swirling as to what will happen to Bucky and it’s clear Steve Rogers is returning to the red, white and blue, and this leads up to it all. A new cap series launches soon with this one switching it’s focus. An interesting ride so far.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Daken: Dark Wolverine #9.1 – Daken has been a character who lives in the shadow of his father Wolverine. That’s true in the story and in the eyes of comic book fans. This point one comic gives him a fresh start wrapping up the previous arc and charting him on his unique path. The character has so much potential and hopefully we’re finally seeing it. No matter what though, this is a fantastic comic.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Deadpool #37 – Deadpool is on a mission to get killed and the action is over the top and missing the usual that makes Deadpool so much fun. This series has dipped quite a bit, falling more into the slapstick end of things. Give me the depiction in X-Force any day, it’s far superior.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

FF #4 – While the council still decides what to do with the Reeds, Susan, Spider-Man and Alex head to the other Atlantis. Hickman has had a vision that’s still ongoing and I have no idea what the end game is going to be. The series is solid, and deserves the renewed attention it’s gotten.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

G.I. Joe: Cobra #1 – Another G.I. Joe comic debuts and like the previous two, it ties into the search for a new Cobra Commander, this time from Cobra’s perspective. Like the previous two, the first issue is beyond solid and makes me wish I had been following all the lead up.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern #66 – It’s part seven of the War of the Green Lanterns and Jordan and Gardner are having some issues as the corrupted guardians run amok.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Green Lantern Corps. #60 – I’ve been waiting for that holy shit moment and it’s the eighth part of the War of the Green Lanterns that delivers it. Rayner and Stewart are on a mission to stop Mogo and what’s done to achieve that is shocking.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #10 – The battle and War of the Green Lanterns continues. With the impending shift at DC, it’ll be interesting to see how much of this remains vital, what’s used and what’s disregarded.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Hellraiser #2 – Unless you’re familiar with the Hellraiser series, it’s hard to care about or figure out what’s going on. I’m not familiar with the characters and the story is ok, but not enough to make me want to continue as a new reader. Please, please, please explain more in upcoming issues.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

Incorruptible #18 – Max continues his road to redemption and attempts to recruit a politician to help, but as you’d expect things aren’t exactly as they seem. Meanwhile others conspire to gain control of the damaged city as it attempts to rebuild. The ending is a bit predictable, but it still doesn’t hurt the issue overall. Mark Waid has done amazing things with this series and it’s sister comic Incorruptible.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Iron Man 2.0 #5 – A Fear Itself tie-in that is all set up and little substance. Sadly, I have a feeling this side step and distraction of an event is going to kill the great momentum the series had. The story is blah and art so-so.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Kirby: Genesis #0 – I liked the beginning of the issue and overall this is a tribute to Jack Kirby’s genius. It’s familiar and riffs off of all the work he’s known for and some that didn’t see the light of day. It’s impressive his style can be copied and the issue feels like Kirby did it himself. Overall though, the issue is for those who appreciate the legend.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

The Mighty Thor #2 – A certain cosmic being is headed towards Asgard and Thor versus him should be pretty damn interesting. The issue is all lead up and setting up what’s to come, but it’s pretty decent.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Namor: The First Mutant #10 – The series still is struggling to find it’s foot hold. Instead of just focusing on Namor’s rule and separatists/terrorists, we get distractions of time travel and other crap. Keep it simple and the series would be excellent.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

Onslaught Unleashed #4 – An interesting ending and I’m not quite sure what to think. Mostly because I’m not sure exactly what it means. The art continues it’s interesting style as the battle against Onslaught concludes. I can’t imagine this is the end, and hopefully someone picks up the story from here.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Planet of the Apes #2 – Much like Hellraiser the series is written for those familiar with the material, but broken down, the story is really a search for an assassin, not much more. Sadly, overall the issue isn’t as inviting to new readers not familiar with the material as you’d hope it’d be.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Power Man and Iron Fist #5 – Wait, what!? What started as a great C-list exploitation comic turned into a nonsensical story. Seriously, what the hell did I read?

Story: 5.5 Art: 7 Overall: 5.75

Secret Avengers #13 – A Fear Itself tie-in that tries to tell a decent story focused on a member of Congress, but overall the story makes no sense and falls so short. There’s some interesting moments, but as a whole, wtf?! It was kind of cool to see a comic artist’s take on where I live though.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6

Secret Warriors #27 – Hickman brings in back to the politics and shows us again how much of a badass Nick Fury is. Such a good comic, it’s sad to see there’s only one issue left. Here’s hoping we’ll get more of this in the future.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Uncanny X-Men #537 – The Breakworld story continues and I roll my eyes. I’m just not into this story at all. It’s not bad, but as I haven’t read the lead up, I just don’t care.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25

Venom #3 – The fight continues as Venom’s adventure in the Savage Land continues. The series is a pleasant surprise, but there’s somethings in this issue I wish was kept for a later date. Still, it’s very entertaining.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

The Walking Dead #85 – So where can writer Robert Kirkman take this series that he hasn’t so far? We get a look at the long term and begin to ponder what a new civilization would be like. As usual, the comic is more about the emotional impact and human interactions than the zombies.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Wolverine #9 – The silliness of this issue just gets out of hand. Guns that can shoot through the planet? A gun fight for what seems to be no reason whatsoever? Wow has this series just crapped out.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

X-Men: Legacy #249 – It’s impressive how much a series can bounce back with one issue. This is the prelude to the new team the series will focus on and it looks like it’s going to be really interesting.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 5/18/11

Posted on May 22, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books dominated by “X” comics, events and some comics making their debut. Before you head to the shop to pick up your new releases, here’s what I think of this week’s batch of comics.

Monthly Comics

Alpha Flight #0.1 – In a reflection of the real world, the first prequel issue of the new Alpha Flight series starts with a Canadian election which is clearly more than it seems. The issue as a whole is a decent read, and there’s a lot of potential but it doesn’t quite blow me away. The art is a bit inconsistent and as a whole, if you have read Chaos War, you just have to accept these characters are returned from the dead. Again, the series has potential, so I’ll be very interested in seeing where it goes from here.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Astonishing X-Men #38 – Two issues in two weeks and I can’t say either was really needed. This issue decides to veer from last issue’s battle in Japan and instead sends a team into space to deal with the Brood. The story is blah and there’s some dialogue that’s bizarre (why is Beast rambling about a “secret” team!?) and the art is very inconsistent. This is one “X” series that’s not needed and definitely not astonishing.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Avengers #13 – Generally I would have really liked how this story was told, but it’s yet another lead up to Fear Itself, which has been told numerous times before. Instead of dropping the team right into the action and furthering the story, we instead get a retread that adds little other than a different perspective.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Avengers Academy #14 – The junior team also feels like a junior comic. There’s just something that’s missing from what should be a solid series. Instead we get stories and characters that just don’t quite click, especially after such a promising start.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

DMZ #65 – I keep saying this series is some of the best political commentary out there. This issue is a perfect example why. What horrors and lies are ignored every day for this nation to continue? How many of the founding qualities are trampled upon so that we can wake up the next day as a free nation? In this simple story, all of that is addressed, but not at the same time. Brian Wood’s work here deserves greater recognition, because through a comic book, he’s asking the questions too few are.

Story: 10 Art: 8 Overall: 9.5

Fables #105 – Just when the series hits a lull in storytelling (but an interesting concept) an issue like this comes before you and knocks it out of the park. The majority of the story revolves in a father and son talk. Simple in concept, damn near perfect in execution. The series’ quality shines in this issue.

Story: 9.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Generation Hope #7 – I really think it’s between this series and Astonishing as to which is the worst “X” series running right now.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.25

Heroes for Hire #7 – Fun, fun, fun, that’s what comics are all about and this series is a perfect example of that. Spider-Man and Paladin are sort of working together as plot points from the first story arc come back. The series might focus on B and C list characters, but the comic itself is an A.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Invincible Iron Man #504 – Fear Itself has been a disappointment so far, but Matt Fraction brings the quality for this tie in. Iron Man has to deal with the Grey Gargoyle who has grabbed one of the hammers that have crashed down to Earth. It’s a twisted story, and really enjoyable.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Namor: The First Mutant Annual #1 – It’s the final part in a three part story that finds Namor, Cyclops, Hope, Steve Rogers and Dr. Nemesis in the Negative Zone. There’s some awesome parts here and some parts that made me as wtf. Overall, the story is lacking and if I had noticed it was an annual, I would have skipped it.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Power Girl #24 – I’ve never read an issue of this series before, but when I heard it’d have to deal with a Muslim with meta-powers I felt I needed to check it out. The story is just amazing with a great voice and perspective. Are all the issues this good?

Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.5

Rocketeer Adventures #1 – I’ve never read a Rocketeer comic before (but have a trade sitting waiting to be read), and I have to say this first issue has a great pulp feeling to it. The stories are entertaining and have an innocent throwback feel to them. A great first issue, here’s hoping the rest take flight like this.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Thunderbolts #157 – The team continues their so-so battle but there’s need for the Thunderbolts team in another location at the same time. Will the B team get called up? It’ll be interesting to see how these teams meld or clash is the more likely.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Uncanny X-Force #10 – Archangel has fully taken over and a very interesting event forces him to completely lose his shit. This is a pretty big moment as the team needs to head to the Age of Apocalypse to save their friend. This series continues to be the best “X” book the market. Plus as a bonus you get Iron Man 2.0 #3 to read too.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

X-Factor #219 – David continues to play in his little corner of the “X” world and as many answers there are in this issue, there’s also a hell of a lot hinted at. Overall a decent story, but I’m really intrigued to see what comes next.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

X-Men: Giant Size #1 – Well that was certainly an interesting issue. It’s the first chapter of First to Last and mutants must deal with their place in the world and decide if their species will continue or fade out. I’m not sure I’m a fan of the pseudo retcon, but the concept has me hooked.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

X-Men: Prelude to Schism #2 – Still not quite sure what the big danger is, but Cyclops turns to Magneto for advice as to how to move forward against this unseen threat. It’s a decent story, but there’s been past stories of Magneto’s time in Germany that was much more effective and moving.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

X-23 #10 – Laura is hurting and Gambit has decided to call in reinforcements to try to help ground her. This is the comic we should be getting, a killer attempting to reform. Something that’d be a great companion for Daken which is the killer who embraces what he is.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 5/11/11

Posted on May 15, 2011 by Brett

It’s a relatively thick stack of books this week. There’s some big releases including Flashpoint and Mega Man. Were they worthy the wait? Find out in the reviews below!

Monthly Comics

Astonishing X-Men #37 – The team continues to fight monsters in Japan as Armor must decide if she wants to stand with her family or the X-Men. Meanwhile, Mentallo attempts to toy with Roxxon. It’s interesting to see Roxxon involved, but I can’t say this “X” series is really needed. It’s ok, but nothing special.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #518 – The first story arc comes to a close as the Panther confronts Vlad with the usual fight The overall arc is pretty solid, but definitely slid a bit in quality over the issues. It’s still an entertaining read.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Chew #27 – The series jumps ahead a few issues to focus on Agent Chu’s sister Toni. As usual, the series packs the entertainment and laughs. This series is consistently one of the best on the market. This should absolutely be on everyone’s pull list.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Cinderella: Fables are Forever #4 – Cinderella continues her pursuit of Dorothy Gale as she goes over their encounters over the years. The series is at the point it’s dragging just a bit, but it’s still a hell of a lot of fun.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Daken: Dark Wolverine #9 – The Daken/X-23 crossover comes to an end as we see the potential of what the series could have been. Between the two a great discussion about potential and limits, it would have been great to see this sort of discussion throughout the mini-event. I keep saying this series has potential, and here we get a glimpse of it.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Daredevil: Reborn #4 – Daredevil needed to go through something to get back to basics and this series was an attempt to do it. The first issue was solid and the next three just slipped from there in quality. By the end, it was ok, but really not enough to get Daredevil back to where he should be or to wipe out the past year.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Fear Itself: Youth in Revolt #1 – While the heavy hitters take on the hammers that have fallen the “B” and “C” listers are gathered to take care of the domestic issues. There’s some good moments, like discussion of past events, but there’s not enough of them to make this not a disappointment like the main series.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

FF #3 – One Reed Richards is trouble enough, but what will multiple Reeds do on Earth? Hickman continues his epic weave of a tail. Villains are brought together to take on the Reeds. It’s an interesting concept, and I definitely want to see where he goes with it.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

The Flash #12 – This has all been a build up to Flashpoint, and that series will determine if it was worth it. This final issue didn’t quite hype it enough to get me excited.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5

Flashpoint #1 – DC and The Flash has been building up to this for months and it pays off quite well. This is definitely DC’s version of the Age of Apocalypse. However, we’ve seen lately first issues that are amazing and the follow up that quickly derails. I have my fingers crossed and hopes up.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

G.I. Joe #1 – I haven’t picked up a G.I. Joe comic in a while and it looks like I’ve been missing something solid. Cobra Commander is dead and the race is on for his replacement. It’s the first entry in the Cobra Civil War storyline and its’ solid enough I need to go back and see what I’ve been missing.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Jennifer Blood #3 – We get a better idea as to what this vendetta is all about as Jennifer must balance a domestic life with her after hour activities. There’s something so subversive about this series that makes it fun.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Journey Into Mystery #623 – The series is a mystery so far, fitting for it’s name. Loki continues to unravel exactly what Odin is up to and decides to act. But, since it’s Loki, the readers are left to wonder if what he plans on doing is actually for the better. The series is interesting so far and out of all of the Fear Itself tie-ins, it’s the best of the bunch.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Mega Man #1 – I’ve been waiting for this first issue and it’s everything I’d hoped for. This is the original video game series in comic book form. The memories rushed back and I can’t wait to pick up the second issue. So much fun for all ages.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

The New Avengers #12 – Two stories weave through this issue. One is solid and the other has a lot left to be desired. In the modern day Bobbi hangs on after being shot and Clint Barton is pissed. As H.A.M.M.E.R. begins to reorganize, we get a taste of more than we’ve been let on. In the past Fury and his team go after the Red Skull in the story that’s missing bits to make it totally coherent and some art that’s not quite up to snuff. Why the past stuff, I just don’t know yet, but it definitely dropped the quality of the issue.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

New Mutants #25 – When a series must claim “new direction” that’s a sign the past wasn’t so solid. The issue seems like a scolding and apology for what’s come before. A lead up to this I wasn’t too keen on. This new direction doesn’t seem that bold either. Instead we get an “X-Men” junior team picking up the scraps. Sadly, it has so much more potential that’s hopefully seen under this creative team.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

the Unwritten #25 – Tom Taylor is back after his journey through books. The source of all of the magic is somewhat revealed and there’s a heist. The issue isn’t quite as good as the recent ones, but it’s much more straightforward.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

X-Men #11 – And this is what’s known as filler. A flashback story of Xavier meeting a vampire. The story isn’t particularly good and the art takes a dip. I doubt it’ll have any long term impact or significance.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

X-Men: Legacy #248 – It’s post Age of X and the residents of Utopia are dealing with the ramifications. It’s an interesting way to set up a whole lot of new plot possibilities and there’s some foreshadowing here that looks like it’ll lead to the return of some space faring mutants we haven’t seen in a while.

Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall:8

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 4/27/11

Posted on May 1, 2011 by Brett

It’s a thick stack of books this week and a lot of quality. What should you grab and what should you skip? Find out below!

Monthly Comics

Age of X Universe #2 – The first issue of this event spin off I thought was a bit weak, but this second issue bounces back with a hell of a statement about following orders. The second story featuring Doc Strange and Dazzler is also good, even keeping me on my toes.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

American Vampire #14 – The platoon moves on to find the Japanese Vampire infested camp, but what does one look like? Skinner also continues to play his game. This is a great mix of a “war” comic and a “vampire” comic, one I highly recommend picking up. There’s a great feel to the issue, it’s atmosphere and pacing are both done really well. letPlease someone make this into a television series.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

The Avengers #12.1 – The Avengers have to rescue Spider Woman who plays the damsel in distress. A villain from the past returns and there’s a lot of foreshadowing. Overall it’s a decent issue and will have greater implications than the actual quality of the issue.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Brightest Day #24 – It’s the end of this maxi-series and as a whole it just feels like a convoluted way to get even more characters back into the DC universe. Swamp Thing isn’t the only person to make their debut. The art, story, it all was definitely not as solid as the launch of the series. A bit of a let down.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Captain America #617 – Bucky is playing gladiator in a Russian prison, while his friends scramble in an attempt to get him out alive. This direction is pretty entertaining as we keep getting Steve Rogers’ return to the uniform foreshadowed.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Deadpool #36 – Deadpool is back on Earth and has realized his friends dislike him. He comes to other realizations as well. The series seems to be missing something lately, swinging to far into the slapstick. It does best when it’s well balanced between that, solid story and good action. Hopefully it gets back on track soon.

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

FF #2 – Doom’s got some brain damage. The FF must help him. Why they’d help a dangerous man, because Reed’s daughter says so. It’s not the strongest of plots and certainly Doom hasn’t acted lately like he’s missing something (see Namor’s comic as an example), but I guess we’ll see where the series goes.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

The Flash #11 – It’s all a lead up to Flashpoint and we get a better idea as to the cause of the world changing event. The series is interesting and not quite as solid as previous arcs, but the build up has been entertaining.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #9 – John, Kyle, Guy and Hal must decide how best to complete their mission and there’s some dissension in the ranks. The War of the Green Lanterns continues and it’s still pretty entertaining.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Incorruptible #17 – At some point you need to start rebuilding the city, but has Max accepted his role in that? The villain must decide what role he’ll really play in the new paradigm of his city and the world.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

The Mighty Thor #1 – Just in time for the movie, a new Thor comic book. The World Tree is hurt and Sif and Thor must head out to protect it. Back on Earth the debate rages on what it means in Gods walk among men. It’s an interesting first issue that picks up where the last series left off.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25

Namor: The First Mutant #9 – The latest arc has Namor struggling with the rule of his kingdom as a break off faction of Atlantis challenges his authority. The story is decent, but doesn’t blow me way. I’ll give this arc a try, but if it doesn’t improve, I think it’ll be my last one for the series.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

New Mutants #24 – And with a blink the Age of X is over, but the ramifications will continue. The story was pretty cool, but not quite as epic as some other events. If anything I was a bit disappointed at the somewhat predictable cause. The big thing though will be how this carries out throughout the year as the reverberations from it trickle out.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

The New York Five #4 – And thus ends Brian Wood’s second volume of his look at four college students comes to an end. The series is fantastic as I’d expect of his writing. Underneath it all, it’s also a love letter to New York City, one that after reading, you can’t help you were a part of it.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Osborn #5 – I think this series shows off why I like Norman Osborn so much. He’s a villain many moves ahead of us, thinking of the big picture. It’s kind of hard to not like someone so Machiavellian in their actions. Here’s hoping we get more of this.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Planet of the Apes #1 – For fans of the movies, humans and apes now live in an uneasy world together and after an assassination that truce might end. The first issue is decent enough, hopefully the series kicks up, but as far as setting the tone and up a story, this issues does that quite well.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Power Man and Iron Fist #4 – All kinds of craziness is going in what feels like a cheesy “B” movie in comic form. But it’s a fun read. The dynamic between the new Power Man and Iron Fist is entertaining. As a whole a decent, but flawed read.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Secret Avengers #12 – We learn more about John Steele’s past and are hinted at what the Shadow Council is about. I think we’ve got some new big baddies, hopefully they live up to their reputation and how they’ve been set up.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Secret Avengers #12.1 – Steve Rogers takes on Wikileaks and actually makes a pretty solid case in his argument.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Uncanny X-Men #536 – I wasn’t a big fan of the first Breakworld storyline, so this follow up isn’t quite doing it for me either. I’m just waiting for the fireworks to really hit later this year.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

The Walking Dead #84 – It’s always after the darkest moments we see a glimmer of hope. Everyone is at their darkest in this issue, with things looking completely over, but then there’s the hope. After 84 issues, is that what writer Robert Kirkman has been trying to instill in us? That no matter how bad it all seems, there’s always hope?

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Venom #2 – Venom takes on Kraven on a mission to destroy some vibranium. The second issue continues the set up in what still seems like it’ll be a promising series.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

X-Men #10 – The X-Men continue to battle Dark Beast. There’s a lot I liked and a lot I didn’t. It was a fun arc, but not a memorable one that’ll keep me talking for a while. But still, a few good issues.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

X-23 – Daken and X-23 chat and deal with someone trying to start up a new Weapon X program. The issue with this mini-crossover isn’t the lack of fireworks, but too many double crosses and zig zags. It does get old after a bit.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 4/20/11

Posted on April 24, 2011 by Brett

It’s a solid week of books as an average size of releases were found in my pull box. There’s some top notch titles and quite a few of my favorites.

Monthly Comics

Avengers #12 – The Avengers take on Parker Robbins and the issue with the Infinity Gauntlet is resolved. But now, what will happen with the gems? The ending had a twist I wasn’t expecting but I guess I should have seen coming.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Avengers: Academy #12 – While overall I think the battle with Korvac was pretty lackluster but the final two pages of this comic are very solid. The series isn’t quite as good as I hoped it would be, but we’ll see where it continues to go.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Dark Horse Presents #1 – A thick 80 page comic book showcasing some of the best talent out there, Dark Horse Presents is back and absolutely fantastic. The various stories are fantastic with a nice variation of stories and art styles. There’s something here for everyone. This is an absolute buy that should be on everyone’s pull list.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

DMZ #64 – The political games keep going in part four of Free States Rising. The ending of this issue is pretty shocking as Brian Wood’s brilliant series continues. This is one of the most politically relevant pieces of writing of the past decade.

Story: 10 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9.5

Fables #104 – Are the Fable doomed and Mister Dark’s victory assured? The series has a quiet reflective moment before the big battle, but there’s a bit of family business to take care of before hand.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Generation X #8 – A new mutant alerts the team and they go off to awaken it (or whatever Hope does). The story and series as a whole is just ok, definitely the weakest of the “X” bunch.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Green Hornet #15 – A real good issue as the Hornet has doubts after getting Kato injured and killing a bad guy. It’s a great issue that shows off the quality of this entire series.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Green Lantern #65 – The Green Lantern line of comics needed a kick in the ass with too much build up and some boring stories. But War of the Green Lanterns has been the nice charge I’ve been waiting for. The only issue I have is a too convenient plot point in this issue, but that last panel is awesome.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern Corps. #59 – The fourth installment of the War of the Green Lanterns hinted at some awesomesauce but this issue stumbles a bit and for some reason seems really short. It’s a lot of fighting, but overall ho-hum.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Invincible Iron Man #503 – The Doc Ock story is rushed and ends and then there’s a lead in to Fear Itself. The issue is a bridge into that event, but it feels rushed and nothing really fleshed out, just moments and none are particularly good.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Iron Man 2.0 #4 – Who is Palmer Addley? You find out what’s in his real file in this issue and it’s a doozy. Nick Spencer shows off his amazing writing skills right here.

Story: 9.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9.25

Thunderbolts #156 – One team is sent on a mission with their new mystical member while another is being put together. This issue is hit and miss, with the best parts being the new team being put together.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Uncanny X-Force #8 – A solid one-off issue that opens up a whole lot of shit down the road and clearly leads to some of the teasers we’ve seen for the future of this team. Easily the best “X” book on the market.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Wolverine #8 – Logan fighting for his soul = a horrible storyline. Thank go it’s over, but then again, I got one false ending already. Can we please move on from this bad storyline?

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.5

X-Factor #218 – For as good as last issue was, something was off about this one. Will Guido live or die? Find out here cause it’s interesting. Overall the story is missing something and the art is definitely off. What’s up with everyone’s breasts busting out of their costumes?

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Zombies vs. Robots: Undercity #1 – Yup, it’s more robots and zombies and it’s awesome. The world is ending the President has ordered the underground city to be opened and humanities hope to be shuffled in. It’s awesome.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

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