Tag Archives: a-force

Mini Reviews

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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.

CageHero01_Cover-COLORSAlex

Cage Hero #1 is a surprisingly enjoyable mix of superpowers and mixed martial artists. A fun comic that has an amusingly unique take on the superhero origin story (even if the high school setting is somewhat familiar). Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read.

One of the more interesting takes on the vigilante heroes lately has come in the form of The Black Hood. Issue #6 is a standalone tale that focuses on the title character’s battle with an addiction to prescription  pain killers while he continues to go beyond the law in administering justice. The art is crisp and the colours entice you into the brutally honest world within these pages. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Mono is a superbly envisioned collection about a secret agent with a prehensile tale that is, frankly, visually stunning. This was a collection that captivated me from start to finish with it’s mix of pulpy goodness and pseudo history, it was a joy to read. Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy

Brett

Art Ops #1 – A fascinating new Vertigo series I’m still trying to wrap my head around. It’s basic idea is that art is real, and there’s this agency that protects the beings within the pictures. At least that’s my understanding of it. It’s pretty out there. Not sure if I’m totally sold, but it’s absolutely original. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

ARTOPS-Cv1-96f41The Black Hood #6 – A one-shot that seems like it’ll lead into the next story arc. Howard Chaykin joins on art, and while I figured out the twist a bit before it was revealed, the comic is still really entertaining. If you’re looking for a comic about a cop/junkie/vigilante, then look no further! Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Chew #51 – The series is coming to its finale and this is our first look after its major confrontation and battle. We get to see where some characters are in their lives and what the world is like. There’s still some big questions to be answered, but this comic continues the over the top humor that consistently gets me to laugh. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

The Hangman #1 – This first issue is fascinating. It doesn’t quite get us to what I think is where the series goes next, but we learn about the boogeyman that is the Hangman in the mob. The comic is absolutely adult, and really puts the “dark” in Dark Circle. It definitely piqued my interest. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

Revival #34 – What brought all the folks back to life? We still don’t know what’s behind Revivers, but this issue has some impressive revelations that started to make the puzzle clearer. It’s also a hell of a confrontation between Dana and her father. It’s an issue full of emotion and catharsis, a great jumping on point. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

Daphne

The final issue of the A-Force miniseries was awesome. Ending it with an all-out war that showcased dozens of Marvel Comics ladies was a great decision, and makes me super excited for the full series to come out. The series itself wasn’t as strong in the middle as its beginning, but it ended with a great climax and I can’t wait to see more. Overall Score: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Ms. Marvel ended on a high note in time for the big company-wide relaunch initiative. With Kamala’s world ending we finally get some plot points wrapped up in really satisfying ways, and the story ends in a really optimistic and emotional that is totally worthy of the Miss Marvel name. This was probably the best “Last Days” story to come out of Secret Wars, and I love that it left us with both closure and a great setup for things to come. I can’t wait to see what happens with the relaunch. Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Elana

Catwoman-45This has been a banner month for Catwoman, Constantine and Gotham Academy. Each has just printed it’s best issue yet. Each of these comics reaches a pinnacle of a completely compelling storyline here and delivers and delivers and delivers. These are among the best comics today. Buy. Buy. Buy.

Over the Garden Wall issues 1 and 2 are lovely contributions to the world of the animated show. I rewatched the cartoon after reading them and they fill in the blanks in the series so well that I would strongly suggest anyone who likes the cartoon pick up these comics immediately. They are charming and wistful like the series. They even contain a page of sheet music in the back! Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Heathen from comixology submit: promising fantasy/folklore story from a promising new creative talent Natasha Alterici. Compelling queer female lead. Evocative painted art. You can shiver it it looks so cold. I hope she continues the series! I’ll give it an 8 if she can keep this up! Recommendation: Buy.

Revenger from comixology submit: this is an angry comic. The art evokes Benjamin Marra (his art is also angry). If you are in the mood for angry, revenge violence with a very raw nerve core then give this a go. It’s got that ugly but compelling look to the art. Badass black butch female lead who reminds me of a cross between Grace Jones and The Man with No Name. Feels pretty punk rock. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

Concrete Park Volume 2 this is a radical scifi book with politics on it’s sleeve. Striking character design. Impeccable world building. Check out those maps! The world they invent is completely unique. An urban dystopia in space. Strong critique of the prison-industrial system and sexism. It deserves a full length review. This was the best thing I got at New York Comic Con. I love it so much! And I’ve only read the 2nd volume. Definitely going to buy the first one but I think it speaks to how well written the 2nd volume is that I was able to get totally involved in it without any of the earlier information. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Kenny

Colder: Toss the Bones #2 continues its trend of being creepy as hell. Nimble Jack’s relentless tormenting of Declan plays on the idea of that feeling that someone is watching you. The story toys with that psychological idea to great effect. It is uncomfortable seeing Declan unknowingly having his life manipulated by Jack. Each of Jack’s action are so dark and uncomplicated by morality, that he has become a menacing figure who seems unstoppable at this point. This comic is still proving to be one of the best horror comics out and one that needs your attention. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is moving in a completely new and exciting direction after the epic conclusion of TMNT #50. Issue #51 sets the stage for a Turtles’ arc as they try and navigate their new position as, well, I won’t spoil it for you. Find out for yourself and see the one of the most interesting premises for a Turtles story I’ve seen in a long time. Overall 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

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

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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REBELS #7 CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Brett

Top Pick: Battling Boy: Fall of the House of West (First Second) – The latest graphic novel in Paul Pope’s Battling Boy series focuses on Aurora West and her focus on finding the person responsibly for the death of her mother. Like the graphic novels before it, this one is beyond entertaining with a sense of pulp fun and adventure.

Balkans Arena (Humanoids) – This original graphic novel takes us into the seedy underworld of a country whose violent past echoes in their present.

East of West #21 (Image Comics) – The apocalyptic series doesn’t disappoint and it’s one of the series I look forward to with each issue. Always at the top of my read list.

Twilight Children #1 (Vertigo) – Gilbert Hernandez and Darwyn Cooke on a Vertigo series? Yes please!

Two Brothers (Dark Horse) – A graphic novel by Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba about twin brothers raised apart. Heartbreaking and memorizing. You can read my review.

 

Kenny

Top Pick: Tyson Hesse’s Diesel #2 (BOOM! Studios) – This instantly became a must read for me after the first issue. If you missed missed the beginning, hurry up and go pick it up and then read this. It’s too good to pass up.

Batman #45 (DC Comics) – There’s a new Batman coming out by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo. I don’t know what you need to be excited by a comic but that’s plenty for me. I’m in!

Catwoman #45 (DC Comics) – I’m going to keep putting this on my list of top picks for the week until it stops being so phenomenal. And, honestly, I don’t see that happening any time soon so, go check this out for a thrilling crime saga.

Rebels #7 (Dark Horse Comics) – I really enjoy takes on historical mythology and this is an extremely solid look at the classic American folklore tale of Molly Pitcher. Let your inner history lover out. It’s worth it.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman and Robin Eternal #2 (DC Comics) – One of the best cliffhangers I’ve seen in some time with Batman, and Dick Grayson back in the driver’s seat? No brainer. Oh Brother, oh Mother, bring this on!

Superman: Lois and Clark #1 (DC Comics) – Dan Jurgens, Lee Weeks, continuity? Yes please! Bring it on! I forget you, sometime…

Uncanny Avengers #1 (Marvel Comics) – Bold move bringing Ryan Reynolds, errr Deadpool on your team. Love me some Pool. You got one issue to prove me out.

 

Paul

Top Pick: New Avengers #1 (Marvel) – Secret Wars is coming to a close, and now we are seeing new teams forming and The New Avengers is one I am very excited about.  Mostly because I get Hulkling and Wiccan back (and apparently Wiccan has been made over), but this line up looks like it will be a lot of fun, and they can kick butt.  It’s going to be a fun ride to see how this team is received.

A-Force #5 (Marvel) – Well the traitor has been revealed, and they’ve made sure to end things with a bang!  Nothing that She-Hulk and the ladies of A-Force can’t handle….I hope.  This has been one of my favourite titles in Secret Wars, and I am very excited to see this title continuing in the new Marvel Universe.

Civil War #5 (Marvel) – It all comes down to this battle…forces clash to determine the fate of this region of Battleworld, and the mysterious third party involved will not doubt be throwing their hat into the ring.  The reveal was pretty shocking to me on who this third party is, and I’m looking to forward to see how they fare in the battle.

Guardians of the Galaxy #1 (Marvel) – The Guardians are back….sort of.  Star-Lord is running a planet, so his fiancé Kitty is now on the team; along with the ever loving blue eyed Thing???  Just seeing Grimm as a member of this time has me excited!

Uncanny Avengers #1 (Marvel) – This title I add as a top pick hesitantly.  The last volume of Uncanny Avengers was way less then stellar, but I am hoping this new line up and mission can win me back.  It is an interesting roster, with a new member I have not seen before, so I am curious about this teams mission.  Plus I’m really wanting to know why Steve Rogers would want Deadpool on an Avengers team.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Batman #44 CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: Ninjak #7 (Valiant): Over the past few months I have been devouring anything that Valiant has been producing, and pretty much all of it has been as good as I hoped it would be. I quite enjoyed the last issue’s (slightly) slow build up, and I can’t wait for this issue.

Batman #44 (DC Comics): Although I think it’s only a matter of time before Bruce Wayne dons the cape and cowl again, I’m looking forward to seeing Jock take on the Dark Knight. The only thing stopping this issue from being my top pick this week? The $4.99 price tag.

Unity #22 (Valiant): I’m actually looking forward to this for a slightly different reason; I haven’t been reading Unity – yet – because the comic has been in the middle of a story arc. This issue marks the finale of that arc, so I’ll be able to pick it up in trade form, and begin reading Unity with issue #23. Oh yes. More Valiant.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens: Shattered Empire #1 (Marvel) – It begins here! Bridging the gap between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, this series takes us past the destruction of the second Death Star into a world with a shattered Empire. Courtesy of writer Greg Rucka!

Bitch Planet #5 (Image Comics) – After a hiatus that was too long, this series that tackles social issues in the form of a prison exploitation story is back. Hopefully the break has not diminished it’s excellence, but it’s near the top of my “to read” pile for the week.

Rebels #6 (Dark Horse) – Writer Brian Wood continues to bring us an entertaining and gripping look at the Revolutionary War, mixing in a bit of the philosophy behind it.

Starve #4 (Image Comics) – The world is messed up and the television show Starve mixes a celebrity chef cooking competition with excess. The characters are fascinating, and the underlying message of the series could be debated about for some time. A big middle finger to the Food Channel and all of the cooking competition shows out there.

TET #1 (IDW Publishing) – Eugene Smith is desperate to leave Vietnam behind, and begin a new life with the woman he loves. But when a fellow Marine is brutally murdered, Eugene’s plans are thrown away, forever. All’s fair in love and war, right? This crime/romance story set at the height of the Vietnam War and the decades that followed sounds too interesting to not read.

 

Elana

Top Pick (tie): Bitch Planet #5 (Image Comics) – Probably the most important comic being made today in terms of the issues it explores like social enforcement of gender roles, racism and the prison system. In some ways it’s been a slow burn developing the story (in part because of the pace of the releases, not that it hasn’t been worth the wait). Yet the worldbuilding already feels so fleshed out. That’s probably because this dystopia is far too much like the real world of today. No wonder the series has such a loyal following.

Top Pick (tie): Phonogram the Immaterial Girl #2 (Image Comics) – Music is magic in Phonogram. Creators Gillen and McKelvie are masters at building fantastical metaphors for growing up and developing your sense of self that feel more real then any more “realist” or literal narative could ever be.

Our protagonist, Emily used her powers to exile her depressed teenage psyche to the netherverse beyond the mirror. While this gave her the hard exterior to become the Poptomistisn embracing maven she is today it also makes her past self her own worst enemy.

Last issue ended with Emily’s sad old self dragging her into Aha’s legendary “Take On Me” video video behind the screen of her TV. How will she escape? (Read my review of issue 1. A new essay is on its way)

Catwoman #44 (DC Comics) – Last issue ended on a huge cliffhanger. Will either of the series’ two Catwomen- Eiko and Selina survive? That was a serious fall. And have you seen the stunning Kevin Wada cover of our two Catwomen tangoing? Meow.

Gotham Academy #10 (DC Comics) – Easily one of DC comics’ best books. The cast of characters and art are utterly charming. But the story also delves into real emotional turmoil that kids will recognize (& older readers will look back on and remember). The book is perfect on the perifery of the Bat world but requires no knowledge of Batman related comics to enjoy.

The Michael Moorcock Library Volume 2: The Sailors on the Seas of Fate HC Vol. 2 (Titan Comics) – This is not Conan. This is not Red Sonja. This is trippy as hell! This is the second volume of a brand new reprinting of Roy Thomas, P. Craig Russell, and Michael T. Gilbert’s take on Michael Moorcock’s fantasy epic, Elric of Melniboné. While the story is quintessential 70s psychedelic sword and sorcery if you haven’t delved specifically into Moorcock’s works before it will feel utterly new to you. The work that was inspired by it is not like it. So treat yourself to this beautiful volume.

 

Kenny

Top Pick: Tyson Hesse’s Diesel #1 (BOOM! Studios) – The fantastical sky pirating world of Diesel has had me excited to read it since I first heard about it weeks ago. Now, that I finally have the chance to get my hands on it I could not be more thrilled.

Batman #44 (DC Comics) – The safest pick coming out of DC right now is Batman because it has been so constantly good in the hands of Scott Snyder. And, adding one of my favorite artists Jock into the mix makes this a must read.

Catwoman #44 (DC Comics) – Catwoman has been one of the pleasant surprises of the last few months, creating a really intriguing and exciting crime drama. I cannot stop myself from watching Selina’s criminal empire crumble and after the events in issue 43 I have to know what comes next.

Holy F*cked #1 (Action Lab – Danger Zone) – If you just want some utterly ridiculous fun while reading comics then you need to check out Holy F*cked. It is an absolute blast.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman #44 (DC Comics) – Snyder and Jock team reunited for a one off that shows Bruce back in the cowl and gives us an insight to the origin tale of Mr. Bloom. Yes I may miss Capullo for one month but this should be great!

Action Comics #44 (DC Comics) – Truth comes to an end. Will all the answers set us free? Only Kuder and Co. know.

Amazing Spider-Man: Renew Your Vows #5 (Marvel Comics) – I am very pumped for this one. Now that they got through the prodding first few issues, last month really turned up the heat. We get Spidey and Annie May side by side fighting for survival of their world. I cannot wait! Let’s see that Parker luck in full force!

TMNT Color Classics Series 3 #9 (IDW Publishing) – Turtles. Color. Classics. Always there.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Siege #3 (Marvel) – One of my favourite titles to come out of Secret Wars.  Abigail Brand is front and center, defending the SHIELD in a never ending battle from the hordes that would lay waste to Battleworld.  Issue #2 ended with Abigail seeing a familiar face leading the charge against her…can’t wait to see this go down.

A-Force #4 (Marvel) – A mysterious new ally!  A traitor in their ranks!  And the Thors are on their way to uphold the laws of Doom.  She-Hulk has fought hard for Arcadia…is she about to lose everything?  Looking forward to finding out!  This has been a fun book from the start that hasn’t disappointed.

Civil War #4 (Marvel) – Issue #3 showed us a third party pulling strings in this civil war…and the Punishers are just too damn cool.  Iron Man and Captain America are getting desperate…will either one stand victorious?  This has been a surprise hit with me; I’ve really enjoyed seeing these characters in what seems like a ‘What If?’ story.  It doesn’t feel like a tie in book, but more of a fast forward if the war went on.  If you’re not reading this one, what are you waiting for?

Marvel Launches All-New, All-Different with Cosplay Variants

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Marvel is making sure their All-New, All-Different launch is ordered heavily. The company has announced a third variant for the launch that will be featured on 20 different comics. The Cosplay Variants feature individuals in their homemade, hand-crafted costumes, some of which are pretty well known cosplayers.

The full list of the comics are:

  • A-Force #1 Cosplay Variant by Jay Justice
  • All-New Inhumans #1 Cosplay Variant by Yaya Han
  • Amazing Spider-Man #1 Cosplay Variant by Aaron Rivin
  • Astonishing Ant-Man #1 Cosplay Variant by SoloRoboto Industries
  • Avengers #0 Cosplay Variant by Michael Cox
  • Captain Marvel #1 Cosplay Variant by Judy Stephens
  • Daredevil #1 Cosplay Variant by Patrick ‘Rick’ Lane
  • Doctor Strange #1 Cosplay Variant by Allen Lee Hansard
  • Extraordinary X-Men #1 Cosplay Variant by Amanda Lynne Shafer
  • Guardians of the Galaxy #1 Cosplay Variant by Contagious Costuming
  • Invincible Iron Man #1 Cosplay Variant by Dale Oliver
  • Ms. Marvel #1 Cosplay Variant by Soni Balestier
  • Nova #1 Cosplay Variant by Cap Santiago
  • Sam Wilson Captain America #1 Cosplay Variant by Eddie Newsome
  • Spider-Gwen #1 Cosplay Variant by Kathrine Zan
  • Spider-Woman #1 Cosplay Variant by Yashuntafun Cosplay
  • The Mighty Thor #1 Cosplay Variant by Sarah Jean Maefs
  • The Mighty Thor #2 Cosplay Variant by Kevin Spooner
  • Uncanny Avengers #1 Cosplay Variant by Miss Kit Quinn
  • Uncanny Inhumans #1 Cosplay Variant by Kalel Sean
  • CLASSIFIED

Check out some of the covers below!

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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PhonogramIG01_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Brett

Top Pick: Americatown #1 (Archaia/BOOM! Studios) – It’s the near future and the US has gone to crap causing Americans to flee the country and become undocumented immigrants in others. This story focuses on a town in Brazil that’s risen due to this. A fascinating comic with both social commentary and family at the heart of it.

Descender #6 (Image Comics) – Jeff Lemire’s mysterious sci-fi series has been mesmerizing in both story and the art by Dustin Nguyen.

Letter 44 #19 (Oni Press) – Is it time for President Blades to surrender and end World War III? Does he have more fight in him? Writer Charles Soule always seems to have a twist I don’t see coming in this futuristic sci-fi political thriller. Plus there’s that whole astronauts dealing with aliens far away from Earth thing too.

Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #1 (Image Comics) – I haven’t read the first two volumes, but I’m looking forward to seeing what the praise and hype is all about.

Rebels #5 (Dark Horse) – Writer Brian Wood has been digging into the American Revolution, and giving it a personal touch by focusing on just a few individuals and not being bogged down by grand plans and battles. It might be taking place in the past, but the series is relevant to the world today.

 

Alex

Top Pick: Howard The Duck #5 (Marvel) – I have no idea what’s happening in this series half the time, but I absolutely love it. There’s the kind of humour I love peppering each issue, from the front cover right to the end. It’s always a happy Wednesday when I get to pick this up.

Batman #43 (DC Comics) – Of the two titles staring just Batman (this and Detective Comics), Scott Snyder’s writing is putting this comic head and shoulders above the other. Snyder is the bet writer to tackle the Dark Knight in years, and I love Greg Capullo’s art work.

 

Edward

Top Pick: Star Wars: Lando #2 (Marvel) – The first issue of this series was surprisingly fun and with a great twist of an ending. It will be interesting to see where it goes from here.

A-Force #3 (Marvel) – One of the more interesting concepts for a Secret Wars series gets its third issue. The first was so-so, the second was a lot better, how will this one turn out?

The Beauty #1 (Image Comics) – The emphasis on beauty is always an issue in modern society, and so it will be interesting to see what the take is on it in this series.

Gotham Academy #9 (DC Comics) – There still hasn’t really been a missed opportunity so far in this series, and that will likely continue here as the gang faces a werewolf.

String Divers #1 (IDW Publishing) – Now that Ant-Man made miniaturization cool again, we might see more stories like this, about a group of scientist fighting supernatural threats at the microscopic level.

 

Elana

Top Pick: Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #1 (Image Comics) – This is one of the best comics series of the 00s and now it’s back. Everyone who loves music needs this comic, even people who don’t read comics. Here’s my short review of issue 1. I’ll be writing a bigger piece soon because it’s worth it!

A-Force #3 (Marvel) – Interesting premise. Female characters that I can’t get enough of like She-Hulk and Dazzler and a school of Namors. The story presents a mystery intriguing enough that I keep buying this book even though I can’t deal with the outfit they put Nico in. I’m sorry but not only is her get-up impractical it’s not even goth. Nico would never wear that. But buy this anyway because it’s a lot of fun.

Catwoman #43 (DC Comics) – Spoiler is back! Series writer, the awesome Genevieve Valentine was our podcast guest last night. We think she’s doing outstanding work and taking the characters in directions that make sense yet are 100% unlike what we’ve seen before. In this issue Steph wear’s a Black Canary band t-shirt and Selina wears more contour because clothing should reflect the people wearing it damnit! Love this book.

Constantine: The Hellblazer #3 (DC Comics) – Now the great ConJob is heading back to London. That city is full of bad memories for him and it looks like he’ll be getting help from an interesting new character. This series keeps gets better with each re-reading so I expect issue 3 to be the best yet.

Gotham Academy #9 (DC Comics) – Olive and Maps are starting to have her own Scooby Gang whether they want it or not (Maps does, Olive says she doesn’t, which is why she needs it most of all). Look at all of these adorable children! They keep melting my stoney heart with their cuteness and feelings and mystery solving and angst.
Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman #43 (DC Comics) – The new Dark Knight Jim Gordon’s maiden voyage continues. He’s got the tech does he got the stuff? Meanwhile the mystery of Mr. Bloom starts to grow. Oh yeah that Bruce Wayne guy shows up to give some pointy eared advice too.

DC Comics: Bombshells#1 (DC Comics) – Tales of mighty maidens from WW2 era. Very historically retro style book coming our way. Plus who doesn’t want to see A League of their own style Batwoman?

JLA: Gods and Monsters #1 (DC Comics) – The creative team from the hit movie gives us the backstory on how this big Three got together. All I know is I can’t get enough of Bekka as Wonder Woman!

Secret Wars #5 (Marvel Comics) – In Doom we trust. I sure do. Nuff Said.

Paul

Top Pick: A-Force #3 (Marvel) – She-Hulk has broken the biggest rule of Battleworld…no travelling between regions. And now the Thors are coming! This is a fantastic story with the ladies of Marvel, and as I’ve said before, anything wit She-Hulk front and center is great. If you’re not reading it, go get issues #1 and 2..I’ll wait…go now!

Secret Wars: Battleworld #4 (Marvel) – I have really enjoyed this book, giving us 2 shorter stories showing us characters and areas of Battleworld not explored in the main books. This is the last issue in this series, so I’m very interested to see what final stories will be told before the end of Secret Wars.

Star-Lord and Kitty Pryde #2 (Marvel) – Issue #1 was a fun, light hearted story in-between all the darker stories being told in Secret Wars. Peter is an anomaly that Kitty will not let out of her sight…and Peter wouldn’t have it any other way. Will she take him back to Valeria, or keep this discovery for herself?

Pharoah

Top Pick: The Beauty #1 (Image Comics) – In a time where dystopia and vanity is all over mass media, this comic hits it right on the nose, as the creators imagine a world where beauty can come to anyone as sexually transmitted disease, WHOA!!!

Doctor Who: Four Doctors #1 (Titan Comics) – All I have to say , what happens when you have the 10th, 11th and 12 doctors join forces, is a whole lot of quips and more than quadruple the trouble

Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #1 (Image Comics) – I love McKelvie and Gillen’s work on everything they have done so far, as music and magic are one and the same in this world, as the buys kick off a brand new arc

Providence #3 (Avatar Press) – Alan Moore, continues his exploration of all that makes Lovecraft, a master of what he did, as Moore and Jacen Burrows only furthers the unsettling discovery.

King Tiger#1 (Dark Horse) – who does not love a good old kung fu movie, as this comic, has all the makings of a classic Shaw Brother movie.

 

Troy

Top Pick: A-Force #3 (Marvel) – One of the more interesting Secret Wars tie-ins in my opinion. A-Force continues the story of an elite team of female avengers as they continue to unravel the curious mysteries of Battle World.  Knowing that the A-force brand and team will continue post-battleworld this is sure to be a rewarding read to invest in!

Inhumans Attilan Rising #4 (Marvel) – With the upcoming Inhumans movie, and seeds planted on the television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The inhumans are poised to make a big splash in the MCU over the next few years. A traditionally reclusive community the ensuing emergence of the Inhumans both on the small screen and the big screen makes a surreal parallel to the source material. Now  is very good time to learn about them and see what makes them so amazing. Who wants to get me some Terrigen crystals this Christmas?

Secret Wars # 5 (Marvel) – Despite achieving some manner of Godhood the chinks in Dr. Doom’s Deistic armor are starting to show. Last issue hinted at a showdown between Doom and his longtime rival Reed Richards. There’s definitely something epic about an impending battle of wits between a God and Mortal who are in a lot of respects equally matched. I can almost hear Michael Buffer’s clarion call in the distance. Impatiently awaiting this cosmic scale knock down drag out J

Marvel’s Kirby Monster Variants this October

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When monsters ruled the Marvel Universe, the wildly imaginative brain and pencil of Jack Kirby brought dozens upon dozens of these creatures to life. Monster comics may be a thing of the past, but Marvel is celebrating their legacy this October with over twenty-five Kirby Monster Variants coming to some of Marvel’s biggest new titles! Featuring some of the industry’s most legendary and iconic artists, witness the inimitable imagination of Jack Kirby brought to life by Geof Darrow, Paul Pope, Art Adams, Eric Powell, Simon Bisley, Cliff Chiang and many, many more!

October also sees the release of Marvel’s Hip-Hop variants…..

Groot! Fin Fang Foom! Orrgo! Lo-Karr, Bringer of Doom! Look for these exciting  Kirby Monster Variants coming later this year:

  • A-Force #5 The Crawling Creature Variant by MARGUERITE SAUVAGE
  • Avengers #0 Devil Dinosaur Variant by DAVID MARQUEZ
  • All-New, All-Different Point One #1 Nezarr, the Calculator Variant by PAUL POPE
  • All-New Hawkeye #1 Elektro Variant by JEFF LEMIRE
  • Amazing Spider-Man #2 Infant Terrible Variant by PAOLO RIVERA
  • Ant-Man #1 Scarlet Beetle Variant by TRADD MOORE
  • Captain America: White #3 Jinni Demon Variant by GLENN FABRY
  • Civil War #5 Lo-Karr, Bringer of Doom Variant by JOHN CASSADAY
  • Contest of Champions #1 Xemnu the Titan Variant by DAN BRERETON
  • Doctor Strange #1 Awesome Android Variant by ERICA HENDERSON
  • Extraordinary X-Men #2 Yeti Variant by PHIL NOTO
  • Groot #5 Quonian Variant by CHRISTIAN WARD
  • Guardians of the Galaxy #1 Groot Variant by MIKE ALLRED
  • House of M #4 Kraa the Unhuman Variant by DAVE JOHNSON
  • Howling Commandos of S.H.I.E.L.D. #1 Orrgo Variant by MICHAEL DEL MUNDO
  • Invincible Iron Man #2 Fin Fang Foom Variant by MARK BROOKS
  • Karnak #1 Rommbu Variant by ERIC POWELL
  • Ms. Marvel #19 Wrecker’s Robot Variant by CLIFF CHIANG
  • New Avengers #2 The Blip Variant by SIMON BISLEY
  • S.H.I.E.L.D. #11 Poker Face Variant by JAMES STOKOE
  • Sam Wilson, Captain America #2 Zetora Variant by TONY MOORE
  • Spider-Gwen #1 Hypno-Creature Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA
  • Spider-Man 2099 #2 Ulvar Variant by CHRIS SAMNEE
  • The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #1 Thorr Variant by CHRIS BACHALO
  • Uncanny Avengers #1 Mangog Variant by GEOF DARROW
  • Uncanny Inhumans #1 Vandoom’s Monster Variant by ART ADAMS

Around the Tubes

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San Diego Comic-Con is almost here! We’ll be at the convention getting tons of news and interviews directly from the show. We’ll provide an easy way to keep track too!

While you await the beginning of the convention, here’s some news and reviews from around the web to keep you busy.

Around the Tubes

Comics Beat – TOLJA! Tokyopop is back with publishing plans – This should be interesting.

Greenwich Time – Dispute over Utah comic book convention may go to trial – This is going further than I thought it would.

iO9 – Holy Cow, Sentinel’s Hulkbuster Figure Looks Amazing – No way the final product looks this good.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

CBR – A-Force #2

CBR – Red Skull #1

Review: A-Force #2

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af002bThe Secret Wars universe has been a strange playground for the creative minds behind Marvel Comics.  While some series are tied to the comic book crossovers which inspired them, some are free from such restraints and get to become essentially whatever they want and thus to establish some interesting scenarios that we have never seen before.  One series that has thus not really suffered has been A-Force, the assembly of Marvel’s best superheroines into one place on one team.  Although this is not really the first time that this has been attempted, it is a fairly big application of the concept to the overall story of Secret Wars.

Thus far the story has to deal mostly with the characters trying to deal with portals and what comes from them and what is not allowed to go beyond.  After the loss of America in the last issue another heroine was found, this one with no name, but evidently one which Nico could make a fast friend with.  This issue, which is relatively heavy on action, deals with what this stranger brings, both the good and the bad, and the team’s reaction to her.  This series has been one which has focused more than the others on the politics of Doom’s Battleworld, and while this might not have worked so well in the first issue, its place here is a bit more substantive, which gives overall better weight to the entire series thus far.

The idea of an all-female superhero team, essentially a female Avengers, is one which appealing to many, enough to make this series one which will be revamped beyond the end of the crossover.  In the meantime this second issue salvages and reuses what seemed a bit stunted in the first issue and gives it a new direction.  It is maybe not as imaginative as the creative team could have gotten with these characters, but this is still a necessary series for the wider story arc, one which explains the inner workings of the system which will presumably be quickly torn down.

Story: Marguerite Bennett and G. Willow Wilson  Art: Jorge Molina
Story:  8.4 Art: 8.4  Overall: 8.4  Recommendation: Buy

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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We Stand on GuardWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Brett

We Stand on Guard #1 (Image Comics) – Brian K Vaughn is taking on giant robots and Canada. Sign me up. I’ve been awaiting this one since it was announced at Image Expo.

The Bunker #12 (Oni Press) – Josh Fialkov’s time travel comic has been amazing with each issue and the fact is, I have no idea what will happen. It’s just beyond amazing and one of my favorite comics.

Red Skull #1 (Marvel) – If there’s one character that can mess up Doom’s new world, I’m convinced it’s the Red Skull. Maybe we’ll get the first hints as to how Doom will fall here?

Secret Wars #4 (Marvel) – The first three issues were solid in the best Marvel event in quite some time. It’s interesting to see where it all goes, and I’m along for the ride.

The Wicked + The Divine #12 (Image Comics) – Did you read the last issue? That alone is the reason I’m looking for this one. I seriously have no idea what’s happening next.

 

Alex

Top Pick: Will Eisner’s The Spirit #1 (Dynamite Entertainment) – I’m a sucker for anything set in the 40’s, and the Spirit is no exception. I’ve been looking forward to this ever since I heard the comic was being released. I even though the movie was pretty decent. Did I just lose my nerd-cred?

Detective Comics #42 (DC Comics) – I’ve always been a closet Harvey Bullock fan, so to have at least a two-part story focused exclusively on him? There is no way I couldn’t pick this up.

We Stand On Guard #1 (Image Comics) – A military comic that features giant robots and is written by Brian K Vaughn? What’s not to love?

 

Elana

Top Pick (tie) The Wicked + The Divine #12 (Image Comics) – Ack! My heart! It’s been smashed somewhere on the floor! It’s listening to “People Who Died” and “Rock and Roll Suicide” on repeat.

But Don’t You Cry Tonight (Gillen/McKelvie still love you, baby). There’s an underworld bellow us (BAYBAAHH) and Persephone is the goddess who comes back from the dead every spring.

This month’s issue is a flashback to Inanna’s origins. So put on Purple Rain and pretend you don’t know what’s to come.

Top Pick (tie) The Humans #6 (Image Comics) – It’s been reported that this issue is going to start giving us some more material about the women in The Humans and Johnny’s long lost former girlfriend. I’ve always appreciated how even in this male-centered story all of the female characters are easily identifiable and unique. This issue could make good on that promise.

But that’s not what I read this comic for. That’s just my intellect talking. I read it because it’s in my guts. (Teaser of a thought piece I’m working on).

It’s safe to say this comic will continue to be some of the best crafted, most addictive, least office appropriate reading you’ll find.

A-Force #2 (Marvel) – All of everyone’s favorite female heroes on one team! I was a bit thrown off by this new issues’s summary page. It describes Sister Grimm and Ms. America as foster sisters. Brett and I had interpreted them as a romantic couple. But let’s see where this goes. Hopefully there will be girl kissing and sharks being punched. And more She-Hulk.

Airboy #2 (Image Comics) – Hey Kids! Airboy is appearing in a comic of the same name! But I’m not reading this for a WWII Boy Adventurer. I’m here for the gonzo struggles of the artist as a middle aged man. (Read my review of issue 1 to find out more.) Will this comic’s writer and artist– this story’s actual protagonists– despoil the golden lad of the Golden Age? Pretty sure all of the hangovers we’re ever had, all put together are less interesting then the hangover that this creative team is about to experience (and they invite us along for the ride).

I want to warn our readers that there is seriously transphobic content in issue 2. I did not have a review copy when I put this issue on my picks list and wrote my endorsement based on my having enjoyed issue 1. Now, having read this issue I am not endorsing it.  We will be discussing the problems with it soon. I’m really disappointed.

For more on this, you can read our post “Airboy Crashes and Burns With Transphobic Second Issue”

Years of Future Past #2 (Marvel) – This Secret Wars title seems to have gone entirely under the radar. That’s a shame. It’s a Claremonterrific spin-off of the classic X-Men Future Dystopia, the one that birthed all those crazy X-Men continuities. The book’s got heavy handed but emotionally resonant political metaphor to spare. It also has Kitty Pryde married to Colossus (though he’s only the 2nd best member of the Rasputin family for her to be in love with) and they have a daughter! And she meets Logan’s mysterious son “Cameron”. Ooooo. Who’s he named for?

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Secret Wars #4 (Marvel Comics) – Sheriff Strange, Lord Doom. Marvel’s version of Game of Thrones continues and it’s been epic! Unlike Convergence, part of me doesn’t want to see it end. If only Doom can win…

Action Comics #42 (DC Comics) – Truth continues and we see the “Man” without the “Steel” try to adapt and overcome everything put in his path. Last month was a joy and I’m waiting to see where this month takes us. Hopefully up, up and further!

Barb Wire #1 (Dark Horse Comics) The return of the bounty hunting Babe! Adam Hughes cover alone sold me on this one. If the inside is as good as the cover, I won’t need to keep the receipt.

Green Lantern #42 (DC Comics) – Everyone’s favorite renegade: Han.. er.. Hal Jordan continues his outlaw journey through the cosmos without the Corps by his side. Doesn’t mean it won’t be any less action packed!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #47 (IDW Publishing) – Evil Baxter Stockman, a horde of Mousers and half- shelled heroes. Is it 1984 again? That’s well and ok with me! Me thinks it’s Cowabunga time again!

 

Paul

Top Pick: A-Force #2 (Marvel) – All the women from the Marvel Universe on an island, fighting and protecting their island from outside threats…led by She-Hulk? YES PLEASE!  This is one of the few Secret Wars tie ins that I have really enjoyed, AND it has been reported this title will survive as an on-going title with the MU figures itself out.  I highly recommend getting on board with this one.

X-Tinction Agenda #2 (Marvel) – The second Secret Wars tie-in I really enjoyed, this title sees Havok and the mutants of Genosha dying from a virus running rampant, and their only hope is charging into X-City against Phoenix and taking the help they need to save their people.  Definitely a show down I look forward to seeing.

Years of Future Past #2 (Marvel) – Kate Pryde, along with her parents Shawdowcat and Colossus, have broken free from their prison, and with a handful of fellow mutants, have to race through their ruined city to try and save their surviving friends.  I’ve always enjoyed stories showing a bleaker future, and how the X-Men, no matter their numbers, band together to try and set things right.

 

A-Force #1 Assembles the Women of Marvel this Fall!

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Marvel’s mightiest are back! The title that brought together the female powerhouses of the Marvel Universe has returned in an all-new series! She-Hulk, Medusa, Captain Marvel, Dazzler, and Nico Minoru are joined by the newest addition to Marvel’s pantheon of Super Heroes – Singularity. Coming this fall from award winning writer, G. Willow Wilson, and artist Jorge Molina, the premier female leads of the Marvel Universe must team up to tackle a mysterious new villain that not only threatens the lives of everyone A-Force holds dear, but also the very fabric of reality.

With the world in danger, the call is made – A-FORCE ASSEMBLE! Marvel’s most powerful women are ready to take the world by storm and no one is more excited to present the new A-Force team than series writer G. Willow Wilson. “Given the tremendous fan response to the A-Force Secret Wars series, I’m very excited to bring this wonderful cast of characters home to the new Marvel Universe. She-Hulk, Dazzler, Nico, Medusa and an exciting lineup of guest stars will take on a threat unlike anything they’ve ever faced before.”

The next chapter of A-Force is about to begin and you won’t want to miss the debut of Marvel’s latest series featuring the Emerald Empress – She-Hulk, Earth’s Mightiest Hero – Captain Marvel, Queen of the Inhumans – Medusa, the mutant queen of disco – Dazzler, Nico Minoru, a.k.a. Sister Grimm, and the enigmatic Singularity! A-Force #1 assembles in your local comic shops this fall.

A-FORCE #1
Written by G. WILLOW WILSON
Art by JORGE MOLINA
Cover by VICTOR IBANEZ
Coming Fall 2015!

AFORCE_1_Cover

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