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TV Review: Arrow S5E6 So It Begins

Posted on November 15, 2016 by Brett

Felicity and Curtis learn that Prometheus’ victims have a mysterious link to Oliver’s past that could upend his new team.

Arrow goes back to the beginning in some ways as the clues are put together as to why Prometheus is killing individuals and it goes back to something from the first season that the series has gotten away from. That’s a good thing as the series has definitely slipped a bit in its focus and what this episode does is get back to basics in some ways.

But, what I think is really solid about this episode is the reaction of Team Arrow’s new recruits when they learn what the possible truth is. There’s a mix of horror and some real solid debate as to the truth of it all.

Lets face it, Oliver is a killer, and though the kills were righteous, he also has never really stood up for those acts, just by Diggle, Felicity, and Speedy. Here we get an outside jury in a way now stands up to him and puts him on trial. It’s a solid twist it detail that adds a lot to the episode which feels like it’s the real beginning of the season. That restart within a restart is good as the season has been rather iffy so far.

There’s some decent action as members of Team Arrow come into contact with Prometheus. There’s some odd choices since I don’t remember their saying the train was clear. It might be a detail I missed, but it felt like they possibly let a bunch of people die.

The episode is a focus on Oliver and how he has changed over the seasons. He’s grown as a character and person and gone further than just being a vigilante killer. He feels closer to the actual comic character he’s based off of due to that.

Overall, a much better episode for the season and heading in a good direction. How things come together and what the big reveal to come is will hopefully pay off. That teaser at the end though…. that’s where things get really interesting and I want to know where it’s all going.

Overall rating: 7.85

TV Review: Supergirl S2E6 “Changing” is literally and metaphorically draining

Posted on November 15, 2016 by Logan Dalton

In “Changing”, writers Caitlin Parrish, Andrew Kreisberg, and Greg Berlanti round off several characters subplots as James Olsen and Mon-El wrap up their heroic journeys, Alex Danvers comes out to her sister, Supergirl, and Martian Manhunter and Miss Martian are brought closer together in a traumatic way. Oh, and there happens to be a villain in this episode as director Larry Teng pays homage to The Thing with an alien parasite taking out scientists at a remote base near one of the poles in its cold open. Parasite (Lost’‘s William Mapother) that extremists can be on both the left and right side of the aisle. Climate change is terrible, but killing human beings isn’t the solution

But Berlanti, Parrish, and Kreisberg use Parasite less as a global warming parable in classic Superman villain form and more as a way to cause the cast of Supergirl external discomfort to go with their inner pain. The strongest emotional beat in “Changing” and one of the best character arcs on a TV show in 2016 belongs to Alex Danvers. Chyler Leigh excels at changing her vocal timbre and has great range as an actor going from aloof to happy to completely broken at the drop of the hat while also kicking ass in the action scenes against Parasite. She doesn’t have to speak to show the depth of her uncertainty about how to talk about being a lesbian, or the depth of her feelings towards Maggie Sawyer. The scene(s) where Alex comes out to Kara are the complete opposite of an after school special as Teng uses soft lighting with a minor piano score from Blake Neely as well as getting rid of Kara’s “glasses disguise” for a true moment of authenticity as she is there for her sister. Alex coming out as lesbian wasn’t a stunt for ratings or titillation, but an organic part of development of a character as she strives to be whole in her personal life as well as her professional life as an agent of the DEO. The ending of her storyline is completely happy, but thankfully Berlanti, Parrish, and Kreisberg go the route of Carmilla rather than The 100 as far as tragic queer characters are concerned.

Last episode, I described Mon-El as “adorkable”, but maybe he is more of a douche than a dork. His storyline in “Changes” starts out promisingly enough with Chris Wood flexing his impeccable comedic timing with Mon-El’s reactions to various aliens sending him drinks at the alien bar, which has become the show’s most memorable setting with Catco being a pale spectre of its Season 1 self. But it all goes to hell after this as Mon-El uses his powers to be an enforcer for an alien bookie and not feel any guilt about it. His amorality has gone from naive to downright frustrating or disgusting, and it’s kind of cathartic to see Alex light into him for using his powers to hurt people weaker than him and call him a coward. Mon-El does pathetically participate in the fight against Parasite as he takes baby steps towards being a superhero. He’s not very likeable though, but his role in the episode’s cliffhanger opens up a possibility for him to regain some face in the long run.

I have mixed feelings about the James Olsen becomes a superhero subplot, and all of Mehcad Brooks’ charm goes out the window when he is covered up behind a helmet and voice modulator. But his transformation into the vigilante Guardian has brought him and Winn closer together as well as added another black superhero to television. Even though he ends up cracking wise in the heat of battle when James battles Parasite while Supergirl and Martian Manhunter are down for the count, Jeremy Jordan plays Winn very seriously in “Changes” as he basically tells James to back off his demands for the Guardian suit. He cares for James and doesn’t want to kill himself while playing superhero. Winn is skeptical about James’ actions and kind of a stand-in for Supergirl fans, who are wary of his arc in Season 2. However, he ends up coming around when he realizes that telling a guy in a suit how to punch and defend himself is kind of an adrenaline rush. Olsen might have the gruff, grating voice of Christian Bale’s Batman, but he and Winn have a genuine good time as superheroes even if his origin story is rooted in the death of his father and his own insecurities as a “sidekick”. Some better sound editing would make the patter on Olsen’s side a tad bit snappier.

Due to dramatic timing (and probably budget constraints), Larry Teng saves the reveal of Rudy Jones’ final Parasite form for the last third of “Changes”. Unlike the shoddy CGI of a recent of “monster” in The Flash, Supergirl”s visual effects artists give him the purple hue of the comic book version to go with intimidating size and scale. The makeup and visual effects team should also be commended for their work on the wounded Martian Manhunter and Supergirl, who look like they’re on death’s door and completely drained of their health and vitality. They definitely don’t look like powerful, adorable superheroes or cool, regal Martians. In the big brawl between Mon-El, Guardian, and this week’s villain, Teng doesn’t neglect the horror giving Parasite a “chest burster” for a mouth that he breaks out when fighting Mon-El on the streets. His direction (and the writing) does falter a little bit with the quick reveal of a limitless energy MacGuffin that Supergirl gives Parasite to finally defeat him which is even little too much deus ex machina for a superhero show. However, the image of Kara taking on a huge burst of energy that could destroy any of her friends is a visual representation of her ability to inspire James Olsen to become a superhero, Alex Danvers to embrace her queer identity, and for Mon-El to “show up”.

On the surface, “Changes” get its title from the physical transformation that Dr. Rudy Jones endures as he goes from an overzealous scientist to a character in an early David Cronenberg movie to a tricked out supervillain. However, it is truly about the transformations in Supergirl”s well-rounded supporting cast. Some changes are more thoughtful (Alex Danvers) than others (Mon-El), but the episode is another shining example of how Supergirl has reached new heights by focusing on the people behind the icons aka their feelings and not just flying, alien punching, and shapeshifting. All those things are cool though.

Finally, Changes” is also yet another stellar example of how inspiring science fiction and superhero stories can be towards queer people as Kara finds common ground with Alex in their shared “secret identities” as a superhero and queer woman respectively. But Supergirl doesn’t stay in the world of metaphor and strives for nuanced LGBT representation as Alex and Maggie are at very different places, and maybe a romantic relationship isn’t the best option for them right now even though all the fans want them to smooch.

In a country where the government will be run by a man who allowed queer teenagers to be literally tortured and shocked into “becoming straight”, Chyler Leigh’s portrayal of Alex Danvers is a beacon of hope and a reminder that you can come out at any stage of your life.

Overall Rating: 8.5

Review: Seraph of the End

Posted on November 14, 2016 by nachtmerrieschultz

Listen, there is a level of bait that is great in small doses, but this is taking it to a whole different plane of existence on top of the whole vampire apocalypse business. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, then you obviously haven’t heard of Serpah of the End or Owari no Seraph or Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign. Originally published by Shueisha and Viz Media, it is a series written by Takaya Kagami, drawn by Yamato Yamamoto, and storyboarded by Daisuke Furuya, the first two having previously worked mostly with light novels. It started 2012 and is currently still on going, mostly drawn out of the last few years with the last update being around the 11^th of October at a total of 50 chapters. The anime series by Wit Studio aired 2 seasons throughout 2015, and like many series is just on hiatus while more chapters are added. The series also has 6 light novels under the title Owari no Seraph- Ichinose Guren, 16-sai no Hametsu or Serpah of the End: Guren Ichinose: Catastrophe at Sixteen. They have also recently released the Serpah of the End: The Story of Vampire Mikaela in 2015. Wow, that’s a lot of really long titles…

Like many recent stories, Seraph of the End is centered around the end of the world, but after a virus ravages the world and allows for… Vampires to appear and decide to take over the planet since the virus won’t affect them? Listen, I know it sounds dumb, but this is the actual plot. It’s like Attack on Titan in a way only… Maybe a lot less convoluted. Anyway, the story specifically follows Yuichiro Hyakuya and his journey for vengeance against the vampires, who killed his family and rule over them. He does this by joining the Japanese Imperial Demon Army alongside a few other kids who slowly become his new-found family, all while mourning his best friend Mikaela who sacrificed himself for Yuu (as he is affectionately called by other characters). The way to join the army, I know you’re all wondering, is to make a pact with a demon. So, these kids are literary risking being possessed to fight vampires. Again, I know how this plot sounds, but it’s a lot of fun. This also isn’t including all the twists and turns that the story takes with hidden agendas and who the real villains are.

There’s a lot of things happening in this series that are hard to cover and explain without spoilers.

As stated, Yuichiro Hyakuya is the main character of the story, and boy does he play the part. He is literally all the things a main character is, hot headed a to name one. He has feels strongly about family and friends, wanting to protect anyone he considers family. Since he was 12 he has wanted to destroy all vampires for the violent murder of his family, the Hyakuya Orphanage, whether this blinds him sometimes or not, well that’s open for interpretation. To do this he joins the Demon Army and makes a pact with Asuramaru, a katana that is possessed by a demon, but he has another source of power. All I will say is he is The King of Salt.

Next is Mikaela Hyakuya and if you’re upset about spoilers… The dude is literally in the opening as teenager next to Yuu. When he sacrificed himself for his friend he was instead taken by a vampire and turned. However, he has yet to become a full vampire, as he has never drunken the blood of a human. Something has happened to him that has caused him to detest both vampires and humans, allowing to focus on one goal only: Find Yuu. That is his motivation. He also is extremely worried about meeting Yuu again, since you know… Vampire.

Literally, I cannot stress this enough. The two main characters are so incredibly devoted to each other that I can’t handle it. They go from staring at each other in the first opening credits to literally cradling each other’s faces in the second. It’s so bait filled that it’s glorious, but it also hurts me. It hurts so much.

Anyway, the next character is Shinoa Hiiragi, Yuu’s commanding officer in their specific squad. She acts much older than she is and is related to the most powerful human family in the series. She has a scythe called Shikama Doji, which apparently means Four-Scythe Child. She, like Yuu, considers her squad her family as she begins forming relationships with them. She also is the character that gets to develop feelings for Yuu, as most main female characters do.

Finally, the last character I want to cover is Guren Ichinose, who is a lieutenant colonel in the Demon Army. He also leads his own squad while being the leader of the company Yuu is a part of. He seems strict and uptight, finding weakness in many places, especially in how Yuu carries himself alongside his squad. His sort of the stand in father figure for Yuu. His demon weapon is Mahiru-no-Yo or Midday’s Night, a katana. He was around before the fall of humanity and watched it destroy so many, including people very important to him.

There’s a lot of other characters I could cover, but there is a lot. A lot on both sides, humans and vampires and we’d all like to avoid as many spoilers as we could if possible.

This is a beautiful series; it also has a great attention to color and detail in facial expressions. I would say that the anime is a bit prettier than the manga and that’s only because you can watch the action happen fluidly. Much like a series like Haikyuu you get a feel of everything that’s happening. The series was licensed by Studio Witt, also known for Attack on Titan… which explains a lot. My AoT complaints aside the color on this series is gorgeous, certain color combinations to not be acknowledged. Blood comes off as actually thick and sort of gooey, all in good ways that show the sort of brutality in the show’s world. Hair seems thick and fluidly move in wind and action. Trust me, I’m all about that hair action and how it moves during actions, and this show delivers. It also has scenes that are genuinely painful because of how well it’s animated, like a character is dying and it legit looks awful to go through. The series was directed by Daisuke Tokudo and had episodes personally drafted by the manga’s writer for story that now goes past the manga’s current chapter. This is a good-looking show and easy to enjoy visually. It was licensed for America by Funimation and that leads us straight into how good the dub is.

This is a great dub, but it does have some interesting moments in how it was directed. I’ve only seen the full dub and a few select scenes in Japanese, but overall I think you could go for either and be happy with what you heard. As stated earlier, the dub was done by Funimation, so you know it’s a good one for the most part. It has Micah Solusod as Yuichiro, a voice actor also known for his role as Soul Eater Evans in Soul Eater or more recently as Yuri Plisetsky in Yuri!!! On Ice (which you should all go watch). Solusod has a very Johnny Young Bosch feel sometimes and I found myself wondering which one it was sometimes. It also has Jerry Jewell, as Shinya Hiiragi, who is known for many roles but perhaps best as Kyo in Fruits Basket or Russia in Axis Powers Hetalia, he’s also currently in Yuri!!! On Ice as Victor Nikiforov. I don’t think I need to go on about how good the dub is, but what about the original? It does have Miyu Irino, as Yuichiro, who is probably known best for his role as Sora in the Kingdom Hearts video games or as Todomatsu recently in Osomatsu-san. But, and I know someone’s asking, what about the music? Well, it has a pretty sweet soundtrack. The soundtrack was produced and composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, also known for his work on the Blue Exorcist series and the Attack on Titan series. Overall, I think it has a great sound that works for everything that’s happening, though it does remind me of AoT a lot at times. Sawano also helped compose the opening and ending themes to the first series, though X.U., sung by SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:Gemie, is probably a stand out personally. It says everything that Mika and Yuu are feeling toward each other, though you could probably read into it differently than I did. I think you could check out either and be pretty pleased with what you heard.

This series is a lot like Attack on Titan, but I, and don’t get angry, think it’s better than its predecessor. There something about it that pulls more emotions from me; I feel like I actually get to know characters before their untimely demise. I also think that this show definitely plays up the relationships characters are building a lot more fluidly. However, I can’t ignore that it is a lot like AoT at times and many other post-apocalypse stories. It is a bit distracting when I think of certain things and how convoluted it can be at times. I’m also worried that it’s going to fall into the same political arc that AoT did, something that stagnated the series tremendously for me. Ultimately though, I enjoyed this series and all of its faults. If anything, you could check it out and see if you end up enjoying yourself.

Seraph of the End: 8/10

TV Review: Gotham S3E9 Mad City: Executioner

Posted on November 14, 2016 by Brett

Gordon and Bullock become suspicious of Barnes, and comb through evidence of the murder at Lee and Mario’s engagement party. Nygma goes to Penguin when he hasn’t heard from Isabella. Meanwhile, Ivy reveals her identity to Selina and Bruce, but quickly leads them to trouble.

Gotham seems to close one storyline while kicking up another. This week mostly focuses on Barnes going all judge, jury, and executioner as he runs around town. That story gets put into overdrive as Gordon and Bullock figure out something is up.

Barnes is pretty much the Judge from the animated Batman series and it’s an interesting character that will hopefully come back at some point. The story feels like it wraps up in some ways, but also leaves things wide open to continue as well. It’s probably the strongest part of the episode and as goofy as it began, it wraps up in a pretty solid way.

Then there’s the death of Isabella which Edward becomes suspicious over. As a whole, this plot line has been silly and the bromance between Penguin and Nygma hits a different level that continues to be odd. It all feels like there was a concept here and the writers weren’t quite sure where to go with it all.

Finally there’s the grown up Ivy which continues to be creepy for so many reasons. There’s a kid in the body of an adult and that together makes for a combination that makes me so uneasy. Where they have it all going I can’t forget she’s a teenage kid!!!! Seriously, did no one pause to think what they were doing here!? It doesn’t help that in growing her up, they also sexed up the character to a level that’s on full display. This is Poison Ivy, but the sexiness just makes me want to scrub the ickiness of it all off. Such a horrible idea.

Overall, a mixed bag of an episode. There’s some good acting. There’s some good action. And it’s one of the stronger episodes of an uneven season. We’ll see where it goes from here, but it’s clear the season is enterting a brand new phase after this episode.

Overall Rating: 7.15

Rebirth Review: Comics Released 11/9

Posted on November 14, 2016 by Alex K Cossa

Welcome to Graphic Policy’s Rebirth Review where we take a look at the comics released under DC‘s Rebirth banner and try to work out just how accessible they are for new readers.

Each comic will receive a rating of Friendly or Unfriendly based on how easy it was for new readers to pick them up; the ratings are based solely on the issues released in the post-Rebirth ongoing series, with more consideration given for the specific issue being read when it comes to the final rating than the series overall. You may notice that not every comic is covered week to week, and that’s because I have a memory like a sieve and sometimes forget to pick them up. If I have missed an issue, typically I won’t go looking for back issues to to catch up on events – this feature is all about accessibility for new readers, after all.

This week saw a lot of good comics that may not be as accessible as other issues in their respective series, but that’s often par for the course, eh?

Action Comics #967 Well, whether you’ve read previous issues or not, you can certainly pick this one up and enjoy it. Will you be able to figure everything out? Maybe, maybe not. But you’ll have fun reading this issue, and ultimately that’s the whole point of a comic, right? For that reason, it’s Friendly.

All-Star Batman #4 The best, and most expensive, Batman book is also perhaps the most Unfriendly. If you haven’t been reading since issue #1, you’ll be as confused as your average North American at a cricket match (and most English people too, to be honest), but if you have then you’ll probably be as happy as a pig in muck with this issue.

Batgirl And The Birds Of Prey #4 By focusing more on Huntress, the comic allows new readers to get a foot in the door relatively easily. Not only is this better than the last issue, it’s Friendly to boot, thanks largely to the comic’s plot centering around Huntress’ motivations and not Batgirl or Black Canary’s – thankfully you can figure out where the two meet and enjoy the comic without any hassle whatsoever.

Deathstroke #6 As I’m reading this comic, I’m reminded again of an earlier thought that this would be so much better read in trade. Issue #6 may be Unfriendly, but it’s enjoyable nonetheless.

Detective Comics #944 Much like the other Batman book this week, this is an Unfriendly comic, but unlike All-Star it’s not quite a good.

Gotham Academy: Second Semester #3 A quality book that, being the conclusion to a story, isn’t overly friendly. If the series interests you, then wait for issue #4 – it looks like there’s a new arc beginning then which will be a bit more accessible.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #8 is the start of a new story arc for the series, but the consequences of the previous issues have a strong bearing on the beginning of said story, making this just a tad bit Unfriendly as a jumping on point. Still, if you’re looking for a good read, pick up the first trade when it hits shelves, then come back here.

New Super-Man #4 Another fantastic comic from DC this week that you’ll need a little familiarity with to get the most out of it. Despite that, however, it’s still Friendly enough because even though you may not know exactly what’s happening or why you never feel horribly lost, either.

Red Hood And The Outlaws #4 This is a comic that just boarders on the Friendly side purely because of Red Hood’s opening narration. If it wasn’t for that this wouldn’t be an ideal jumping on point, despite the quality of the issue, as very little is spelled out for you – although one could argue that is a good thing.

Supergirl #3 You’re able to get the gist of what’s going on here, and who certain characters are early in the comic, but it’s never quite enough to fully ring you into the loop – but it does mean that this is a Friendly comic. But only just.

Superwoman #4 There’s a nice amount of subtle, and not so subtle, narration and dialogue that will allow you to get up to speed with the series before things hit the fan mid way through, making this a Friendly issue in the series.

The Flash #10 Starts a new arc by telling a seemingly unrelated story on the first page (but this is comics – it’s bound to be relevant at some point) before telling a more Kid Flash centered story. It’s Friendly, more so than any other issue in the series so far to be completely honest as there isn’t any significant references to previous issues – or other series.

Wonder Woman #10 The origin of Wonder Woman continues to be told in alternating issues, and so long as you’re aware that this comic takes place very soon after Wonder Woman’s arrival to our world then you’ll find this fantastic issue to be very Friendly, as for all intents and purposes it could almost be a stand alone story.

Marvel Dice Masters: Deadpool: Satchel of Unlimited Weaponry

Posted on November 14, 2016 by Brett

This November sees the newest release for WizKids‘ Dice Masters, Marvel Dice Masters: Deadpool. The set is focused on Deadpool’s world including the X-Men and Weapon X, but the set also includes some other familiar characters and the first appearance of the Inhumans team affiliation. I’ll be reviewing a card a day until the set’s release in a few weeks. But, beyond discussing the cards and how they fit into the Dice Masters game, I’ll also focus on the characters themselves and if the card reflects their comic history.

Next up is Satchel of Unlimited Weaponry: Sword, the common version of the card.

Art: Unkown

Comic origin: While I’m not quite sure where it started but the bag basically allows Deadpool to pull weapons out of it, whatever he needs.

Live action version: Deadpool did feature the character carrying a bag of a hell of a lot of weapons which is kind of like this.

Card playability: For a 3 BOLT card it’s very useful and I can see this card being used by a lot of folks, especially if they use a lot of actions on their team. To be able to double up an action card could be a game winner.

Card vs. Comic: Yup, totally works. The card perfectly reflects what is in the comic.

Final Thoughts: This is the common!? What’s the uncommon and rare!?

WizKids provided Graphic Policy with FREE product for review.

The Walking Dead S7E4 Service Review

Posted on November 13, 2016 by Brett

The remaining members of the group try to keep it together in Alexandria; they receive a sobering visit.

The Walking Dead‘ is interesting in that the Saviors come knocking in Alexandria to demand their payment. It’s the first confrontation between Negan and Rick since the events of the first episode and first payment to be made… and they’re early.

The episode has two main points, for Negan to dominate and for Rick to come to a realization of what the new reality is. And that’s the interesting thing about this episode. There’s not a lot of flash, it’s all about the subtle moments, words, and interactions.

Most of that surrounds around Rick as we see him go through the steps of resistance and eventually acceptance. He at first resists Negan a bit and then eventually gives into his demands and wants. He gives up goods. He gives in to demands. And we eventually find out why.

Though the episode is an extended one, it’s the last 5 to 10 minutes of it that’s really key. In a discussion with Michonne, Rick gives up what’s on his mind and he goes through a lot including what happened to Shane and the truth about Judith.

This episode can best be described as the psychology of Rick. We get a sense of where he’s at with the reality of what’s going on. It’s a key episode because of that. Because now we know where Rick’s starting from mentally, we can get more interested into where he goes from here.

Overall rating: 7.65

Review: Doom Patrol #3

Posted on November 13, 2016 by Bessie

“I only want to do good things”- Gerard Way is rebuilding the Doom Patrol, Brick by Brick.

“Your head’s like mine, like all our heads; big enough to contain every god and devil there ever was. Big enough to hold the weight of oceans and the turning stars. Whole universes fit in there!- Grant Morrison

Three months into the new Gerard Way penned Doom Patrol and issue one still seems to be kicking around the place with it’s peelable, Warhol inspired gyro sticker still clinging defiantly to the front cover, taunting me. I can’t help but fret over what’s underneath? Am I missing something vital? Pealing it off seems obvious, right? One flick of the wrist is all it takes, and yet..surely Gerard knows the average comic reader’s mentality? No matter how cool and hip you make your new imprint, the strongest instinct is to store these away like priceless artifacts, bagged and boarded, cataloged and cared for. Not very rock and roll is it? Not exactly what a ‘dangerous human’ would do. A dangerous human would have stepped out of the comics store, peeled it off immediately without even a second though and months later found it at the bottom of an increasingly precarious pile of these beautifully inspiring but ultimately disposable objects, the delicious sticker stuck onto the fridge among crappy takeaway menus, gig tickets, and terrible snapshots. Fuck it! I’ll probably just go and buy a second copy…

I only mention this because looking back it seems the perfect representation of his Doom Patrol work, even for a series only on its third issue. From to this little hoarding, compulsive tic, Way knows how our minds work, how His mind works. He knows us, he is us. It’s been clear from the get-go, issue one, the cover, that he’s going to use all that against us. It’s not going to be an easy ride. “Think you know the Doom Patrol?” you can almost hear Cliff Steele snarling from the page “think again, Jerk sauce!” In any given issue Way can take a Morrison idea, turn it through itself and twist expectations, your own preconceptions against you. Just in case you thought you’d got a grasp on Doom Patrol, he makes what at first seems familiar into the unfamiliar again with a few simple twists and tweaks into a different direction. A lot of the imagery might seem similar with its stylistic callbacks to iconic Morrison moments almost as a stepping on point, but the delivery and pacing is pure Way. It’s the Doom Patrol at a breakneck speed with a rock star sneer, lyrical dialogue, and confident cocksure attitude. It’s the comics equivalent of a dizzying wall of feedback buzz, the clatter of drums and hum of guitars as he splices in the DNA of a fizzling, defiant two-minute-something punk-pop song onto the printed page with the pure unbridled energy you’d find in any of his music.

“I’m going to put it in a fucking blender” claimed Way before the first issue when asked about the Doom Patrol‘s history and legacy and three issues on he’s not shied away from this claim as we enter issue three, as questions are answered while more sneak up behind your back. No matter how far into weird and experimental areas of comics writing Morrison’s went into during his tenure, the book always had a solid anchor in the characters he explored as part Doom Patrol roster, all with bizarre, grotesque yet simple origins and ultimately relatable drives and personalities. It’s a trick that Way has continued here to great success already. In this respect this issue is perhaps the most conventional and straightforward of the new Young Animals incarnation, not to say that the easy read makes it any less creative when this issue turns out to the be super secret origins issue of new protagonist, Casey Brinke in more ways than one. It’s an origin story told perfectly in step with the Doom Patrol style.

Last issue Casey found herself face to face with the man of muscle mystery, Flex Mentallo and we pick up with the Hero of the Beach welcoming her through the Perpetual Cabaret and on to Danny Le Street as she reluctantly and irreversibly throws her lot in with the still disparate Doom Patrol, her strange origin finally revealed to her. Taken on a “it’s a small world after all” ride in Danny-Land, he introduces her and new readers to the team of misfits greatest hits album, The Scissormen, The Painting that ate Paris all rendered like cheap, wooden carnival dressings for her to walk around. Elsewhere we get caught up with Cliff and Larry dealing with Way’s new spin on the negative spirit with some terrifying and stunning panels courtesy of artist Nick Derrington, who brings a sharp visual style to the title. Some pieces fall into place at least thematically this issue, as we start to realize the small touches that make this such a fascinating read. At first, it seemed Flex Mentallo showing up was a welcome, if random callback, while this issue reveals why Danny felt it best for him to the be the one to usher her towards joining the team as she reluctantly and irreversibly throws her lot in with the still disparate Doom Patrol.

Story wise, this series third issue once again goes a long way to re-introducing elements of the Doom Patrol‘s now pureed ‘legacy’, establishing it’s own idea and also firmly re-cementing the team’s roles as DC’s finest band of outcasts as they both deal with the sorts of threats that would send the average hero mad and provide refuge and a purpose once again for the misfits and outcasts. Like Danny-Land this comic is one hell of a ride. Chaotic, confusing, and gloriously silly.

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 11/12

Posted on November 13, 2016 by Alex K Cossa

Sometimes, the staff at Graphic Policy read more comics than we’re able to get reviewed. When that happens you’ll see a weekly feature compiling short reviews from the staff of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full review for. These are Graphic Policy‘s Mini Reviews.

Alex

All-Star Batman (DC)** I don’t know if it’s because the other Batman centric books have become so intertwined with each other lately that you need to read more than just the one to be able to get the full picture, or that Scott Snyder is a level above the other Batman writers (to be fair to them, Snyder has been writing Batman for a long time – for a good reason), but every time I pick up an issue of All-Star Batman I wonder why I’m still reading the other Bat-books. If you’re a fan of the Batman, you need to be reading this series. Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Black #2 (Back Mask) Despite a legitimately fantastic concept,the second issue fails to impress – no matter how much I want it to. Overall: 5 Recommendation: Pass

Brigands #1 (Action Lab) Uh… so I don’t know if this is a one shot or the start to a new series (there’s the word end at the end of the comic which implies a one shot). If it’s a one shot, then honestly you’re better off leaving this on the shelf because the interesting premise peters out pretty quickly into an at best mediocre finale. However, if it’s the start of a series, it’s worth keeping your eye on it because there’s a lot of potential here. Overall: 6.75 Recommendation: Pass/Read depending on if there’s an issue #2

Clone Conspiracy #2 (Marvel) The problem with crossover events when you haven’t been reading the build up is that inevitably you’re going to feel a little lost. The first issue of this comic means very little to the events here aside from how Spider-Man ended up where he starts out in #2; you will feel a bit lost if you haven’t been reading at least one Spider-book before starting this. But hey, Scarlet Spider’s back, so that’s always a plus for me. Overall: 7.75 Recommendation: Read.

Namesake #1 (Boom! Studios) There’s something about this first issue that encourages a second read through, and once you’ve done that then you’ll find the comic opens itself up to you that much more. A solid first issue – keep your eye out for this. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

The Paybacks #4 (Heavy Metal) Holy. Shit. Absolutely amazing. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Red Hood And The Outlaws #4 (DC) This is a sleeper hit for me. I never think of how much I’ve been enjoying the comic until I start reading it; seeing Red Hood inhabit the grey area of an anti-hero’s role has been fantastic, just as his struggle to find which side of the line he falls on. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Revolution #4 (IDW) Shit is finally hitting the fan, and it’s a gloriously chaotic comic that demands at least a second reading just to understand the flow of the conflict. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

Solo #2 (Marvel) If you like your comics to a like a popcorn action movie, then you’re going to like this- but if you don’t then this may not be your cup of tea (and no, you don’t need to read issue #1). Overall: 7 Recommendation: Read

Joe

Invincible Iron Man #1 (Marvel) – After such a downer of an event (so far) with Civil War II, and my doubt that it gets fun or cheery anytime soon, I am looking forward to more fun books like Champions. I would say this book for the most part fits into that category as well. That’s not to say there isn’t a dark and sad moment or two, but for the most part we get to see a super genius child get into super hero armor and have some fun. She is overwhelmed, and trying to figure out how to live in the giant legacy of Tony Stark, but it felt fun and authentic to me. I like Riri as a character so far, and I enjoy how they play with the social awkwardness of someone so smart that it is hard for her to speak with normal everyday people. The ending has a nice tie-in to the Infamous Iron Man book a little, and I want to see where this goes. I am dying for her to meet Doom, and we all know that is coming eventually. Bendis is at his best on solo titles, and I hope this will be another hit. The art by Stefano Caselli was also very well done. Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

The Amazing Spider-Man: Renew Your Vows #1 (Marvel) – This was a fun read and is perfect for a miniseries. It is obvious the series is taking a jab at the controversial story in Spidey’s past where he and Mary Jane are no longer married in the Marvel universe. In this short series, we take a look at what could have been and also give the couple a child, Annie. Then we get to see all three of them with powers fighting crime together. I enjoyed the art by Ryan Stegman, and the design of Mary Jane’s and Annie’s costumes. There was some fun and cute moments between Peter, MJ, and Annie. Overall this was a solid book. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Doom Patrol #3 (Young Animal) – I wasn’t sure how I felt about the first Doom Patrol issue, although I did love something about it. I had a feeling it was going somewhere, and whether it was the amazing art by Nick Derington, or the hints at bigger things inside this weird book by Gerard Way, I decided I wanted to keep reading it. I did just that with the second issue, and I liked the book even more. The introduction of the other characters made this weird book already weirder, but still better. I really enjoy how deep this book gets with its own ridiculousness, and this issue goes even further down that path. I highly recommend this book, and am excited to read it every month. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Patrick

Casanova #7 (Image) – Ever have one of those days where stuff is happening that’s supposed to be superdramatic, but you’re so far beyond caring? I think the danger of having a story that circles around the idea of Acedia, the Deadly Sin of sloth, is that at least one reader just gets beyond caring about your characters. In this issue, there are revelations, sudden screeches to a halt, and explosions – all carried out with brilliant style by Fraction and Moon – but missing dramatic depth. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: keep reading if you’ve come this far (also, continue to drool over Fabio Moon’s delicious artwork).

Ryan C

Invincible Iron Man #1 (Marvel)** – Another ho-hum intro to Brian Michael Bendis’ two “new” Iron “Men,” Riri Williams seems like an interesting enough character, but not because of anything that happens in this uninspired half-slugfest/half-slow-burn-origin story. Stefano Caselli’s art is serviceable but generic, and that sums up the script fairly succinctly, as well. Overall: 3. Recommendation: Pass.

Doom Patrol #3 (DC/Young Animal)** – Gerard Way and Nick Derington continue their surreal re-introduction of “The World’s Strangest Super-Heroes,” this time going a bit heavy on the info-dumping and explicit references to the Grant Morrison/Richard Case years, but at least managing to do so in a highly original, downright “gonzo” manner. This issue will probably prove to be a bit alienating to anyone who isn’t familiar with ’90s-era DP, but what the hell? I still enjoyed the heck out of it, warts and all. Overall: 7.5. Recommendation: Read.

Glitterbomb #3 (Image)** – After taking a step back and catching a breath with their second issue, Jim Zub and Djibril Morissette-Phan put their foot firmly back on the gas this time out as our “heroine” (and the creature inside her) take delicious revenge on a William Shatner stand-in who’s clearly got it coming, and set the stage for how she’s going to climb back to the top of the Hollywood ladder. Deliciously creepy shit here, folks. Overall: 9. Recommendation: Buy.

Black #2 (Black Mask)** – I still WANT to like this comic more than I ACTUALLY do, and odds are that’s going to be a short-lived problem since I’m only prepared to give this maybe one more issue. Jamal Igle’s art is more than competent (although he’s got plenty of help this time out with tones and inks and unspecified ‘art assists’ — and all these contributors are barely credited), but Kwanza Osajyefo’s script, while making some crucial steps forward plot-wise, is filled with almost comically hackneyed dialogue, and “designer” Tim Smith 3 contributes nothing that I can see to warrant co-ownership of the book. The workers are carrying all the weight here while the top dogs hold the copyright and stand to reap all the rewards if this thing hits the big-time. Exploitative capitalism at its finest, disguised as a “revolutionary” comic? That’s a con Trump himself would be proud of. Overall: 2. Recommendation: Pass.

Shean

Black Panther: World of Wakanda#1 (Marvel):Black Panther’s Dora Milaje , at first glance seems to be a super version of the Secret Service but thanks to Coates recent run , the world is getting a more intimate view of their inner workings. Now Roxanne Gay and Afua Richardson are giving readers a ground floor tour of what it takes to be a sacred guard. In what starts out as a scene from Full Metal Jacket becomes a complex episode of Quantico , just with more story development. By issue’s end, there is a few internal rivalry, a budding romance and a war with Namor. Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Violent Love#1 (Image): When it comes to world of crime, the many famous legends that permeates the public consciousness, there is none more infamous and romantic than Bonnie and Clyde. What never really gets discussed is their origins , how they starlit doing these heinous acts . In this story, Barbiere attempts to tell a story similar, with the introduction of Daisy Jane and Rock Bradley. We follow these star crossed lovers as they create mayhem everywhere they go. By issue’s end, you will either be repulsed by them or be rooting for them. Overall: 8.8 Recommendation: Buy

Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write. See you next week!

Please note that with some of the above comics, Graphic Policy was provided FREE copies for review. Where we purchased the comics, you’ll see an asterisk (*). If you don’t see that, you can infer the comic was a review copy. In cases where we were provided a review copy and we also purchased the comic you’ll see two asterisks (**).

Reviews

Marvel Dice Masters: Deadpool: Negasonic Teenage Warhead

Posted on November 13, 2016 by Brett

Next up is Negasonic Teenage Warhead: Foresight, the common version of the card.

Art: Clayton Crain, X-Force Vol. 3 #22

Comic origin: Ellie Phimister, aka Negasonic Teenage Warhead, was created by writer Grant Morrison and artist Frank Quitely and debuted in New X-Men #115 in 2001. The character is a member of the Hellfire Club and is telepathic and has precognition.

She was a Genoshan teenager and a student of Emma Frost who was apparently killed during the genocide of Genosha where half the world’s mutants were killed, sixteen million people.

Weirdly the character was later seen as a member of the Hellfire Club and attacked the X-Men.

Even weirder the character was revealed as deceased during the “Necrosha” event and ressurected by the Transmode Viruse. She apparently deceased again.

But not really because she somehow survived and was living in Albuquerque in Marvel NOW!. After initially being captured by Deadpool’s Mercs for Money she joins them.

Live action version: The character is portrayed by Brianna Hildebrand in 2016’s Deadpool.

Card playability: For a 3 BOLT card it’s rather useful, especially since so much of the game involves Global Abilities. To stock up on these and then quickly get a 6A 3D character is solid. It’s one that could be good in draft and I see some use even in constructed play too.

Card vs. Comic: There’s a slight play on her telepathic and precognitive abilities with this.

Final Thoughts: I want to see the other cards in the set to see what combos can be done.

WizKids provided Graphic Policy with FREE product for review.

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