Tag Archives: dark circle comics

Archie Comics in April 2016

Posted on by

THE BLACK HOOD #11

Before the cataclysmic events of “Bullet’s Kiss” and “The Lonely Crusade,” there was another Black Hood—Kip Burland, a former police officer who vowed to fight the crimes that he couldn’t while wearing a badge. But what was he doing in Philadelphia the day he was accidentally shot and killed by Highway Patrolman Greg Hettinger? You’ll find out in this special flashback issue starring the Original Hood… and learn the shocking truth about what really happened that day. This is an essential one-shot you don’t want to miss, featuring art from classic Black Hood artist Rick Burchett!

Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Rick Burchett, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Black Hood #11 CVR A Reg: Greg Smallwood
The Black Hood #11 CVR B Variant: David Mack
On Sale Date: 5/4
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

BlackHood#11 BlackHood#11macksvar

THE SHIELD #4

“Daughter of the Revolution, Part 4” She has served her country well, fighting for US interests the world over. But when the Shield’s next mission ends in tragedy on American soil—a tragedy televised live to every home in the country—the true nature of Black Seven is revealed as the superhero the world has been waiting generations for becomes… Public Enemy Number 1!

Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig
Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick
The Shield #4 CVR A Reg: Drew Johnson
The Shield #4 CVR B Variant: Andrew Robinson
On Sale Date: 4/27
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

TheShield#4 TheShield#4Robinsonvar

ARCHIE #8

Veronica’s father (and Archie’s arch-nemesis!), Hiram Lodge, is running for Mayor of Riverdale! But will he save, and even improve the town—or will he destroy it?​ Find out in this next installment of the hottest comic of the year!
Script: Mark Waid
Art: Veronica Fish, Jack Morelli, Andre Szymanowicz
Archie #8 CVR A Reg Cover: Veronica Fish
Archie #8 CVR B Variant: Anton Emdin
Archie #8 CVR C Variant: Faith Erin Hicks
On Sale Date: 5/11
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Archie#8Emdinvar Archie#8Fish Archie#8HicksDownvar

JUGHEAD #6

The time has come. It’s JUGHEAD VS. PRINCIPAL STANGER: THE FINAL SHOWDOWN! With the whole gang at his side, Jughead puts it all on the line: Either Stanger goes, or Jughead does! You won’t want to miss this!

Script: Chip Zdarsky
Art: Erica Henderson, Jack Morelli
Jughead #6 CVR A Reg Cover: Erica Henderson
Jughead #6 CVR B Variant: Cliff Chiang
Jughead #6 CVR C Variant: Ramon K. Perez
On Sale Date: 5/4
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Jughead#6 Jughead#6Chiangvar Jughead#6Perezvar

ARCHIE COMICS ANNUAL #268

What was supposed to be a fun trip to a movie set ends up in a real-life crime caper! Will it be up to Archie, Jughead and Raj to save the day? Find out in “Go Figure,” the entertaining new lead story to this comics annual, featuring even more pages of fun!

Script: Alex Simmons
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowksi, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 4/27
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.

ARCHIEComDig#268

ARCHIE 1000 PAGE COMICS 75TH ANNIVERSARY BASH (TR)

It’s the biggest celebration of the year! Archie, Jughead, Betty & Veronica are throwing a BASH to honor Archie’s 75th anniversary! In this edition of the ARCHIE 1000 PAGE COMICS series, get ready for hours of joy, laughter, amusement and crazy celebrations with Archie & his pals ‘n’ gals! For 75 years, Archie and his friends have been making everyone laugh and this collection will remind you of just what’s made Archie last for so long! Everything’s Archie in the largest Archie collection series EVER—offered at an incredible value price!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
978-1-62738-872-6
$14.99/$15.99 CAN
4-7/8 x 6-9/16″
TR
1000 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 4/27

1000PG_75th

ARCHIE’S FUNHOUSE JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #20

A rollerblading double date threatens to embarrass Archie in front of both Betty and Veronica! Can he learn how to blade in just a few days time in order to keep the date going smoothly and maintain his cool image? Or will Reggie be determined to skate him out of the ring… and into the hospital? Find out in “Cheat Skate,” the fun new lead story to this JUMBO-sized comics digest.

Script: J. Torres
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 5/11
256-page, full color comic
$6.99 U.S.

FunhouseJumbo#20

BETTY & VERONICA COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #243

The Many Loves of Archie Andrews continues on in this next fun installment! Archie’s date with Ginger goes awry when her beloved cat Cinnamon gets sick. Exhausted from taking care of her cat, Archie lets Ginger rest while he takes over. Unfortunately, Cinnamon’s not as a big of a fan of Archie as her owner is! See if the claws will come out in “Don’t Make Ginger Snap!” the fun new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent, Bob Smith
Cover: Bill Galvan, Jim Amash, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 5/4
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

B&VDDigest#243

MEGA MAN: MASTER EDITION VOL. 1 (TR)

Mega Man is the legendary Blue Bomber-the boy robot turned hero! One of video game’s first icons, he’s now one of comic books’ greatest heroes! It all began when the nefarious Dr. Wily stole Dr. Light’s eight Robot Masters and turned them against the world! Helper-bot Rock had himself turned into Mega Man—the super fighting robot-to save the day! Dr. Wily wouldn’t go down without a fight, though, and built eight combat-specific Robot Masters just to destroy Mega Man—from without or within! Now Mega Man must fight to save the world and himself! MEGA MAN: MASTER EDITION vol.1 collects the first three epic storylines, covering Mega Man #1-12.

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Patrick Spaziante, Chad Thomas, Ben Bates, Rick Bryant, Gary Martin, John Workman, Matt Herms
Cover: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
978-1-62738-873-3
$24.99/$27.99 CAN
5-1/2 x 7-1/2″
TR
336 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 5/4

Mega-Man-Master-Edition

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #284

SONIC and friends get into some BIG TROUBLE in “Panic in the Sky” Part One: Sonic’s Freedom Fighters are finally ready to restore the planet! Unless, of course, someone does even more damage! Cue: the evil Dr. Eggman (of course)! He has a plan of his own and strikes first! The mad doctor launches a multi-pronged assault that will leave you speechless-everything has been building up to this moment! The final chapter to the Shatter World Saga begins here! Featuring the first of four EPIC connecting covers by mega-talent Dan Schoening and an “Evil Win” variant by the wonderful Lamar Wells!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Diana Skelly, Terry Austin, John Workman & Gabriel Cassata
Sonic the Hedgehog #284 CVR A Reg: Dan Schoening & Luis Antonio Delgado
Sonic the Hedgehog #284 CVR B Variant: Lamar Wells, Rick Bryant & Matt Herms
On Sale Date: 5/11
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Sonic#284 Sonic#284var

SONIC UNIVERSE #87

Knock knock, it’s KNUCKLES in “Shattered” Part One: A brand new adventure starring Knuckles and Amy Rose begins here! It’s a race against time to find the final Master Emerald shards before Sonic restores the shattered world! The final installment of Knuckles’s search, filled with dangers and mysteries, starts with this issue! Featuring cover art by the terrific Tracy Yardley plus an “& Knuckles” variant by CG artist supreme Rafa Knight!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Adam Bryce Thomas, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #87 CVR A Reg: Tracy Yardley & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #87 CVR B Variant: Rafa Knight
On Sale Date: 4/27
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

SonicUniv#87 SonicUniv#87var

WORLD OF ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #58

When Betty and Veronica learn that Archie and his father have gone fishing and left poor Mary Andrews to deal with a mountain of chores, they decide she deserves a little vacation too! And the girls quickly discover that this overworked Mom has more moxie than they realized! The big question is whether Archie and Fred will be able to handle what awaits them when they return home! Find out in “Thrills and Chills,” the entertaining new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: James Gartler
Art: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Jack Morelli
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 5/11
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

WOArchieComDig#58

Preview: The Hangman #2

Posted on by

THE HANGMAN #2

Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
Cover: Tim Bradstreet
Variant Cover: Mike Huddleston
On Sale Date: 1/20
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Join us as we embark on the highway to Hell—and a meet and greet with its overlord, the devil himself! Who will be the one ultimately taking this horrifying trip? Find out as we learn the truth about who and what the Hangman actually is… and the shocking legacy that accompanies him.

TheHangman#2RegCvr

 

Preview: The Black Hood #8

Posted on by

THE BLACK HOOD #8

Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Robert Hack, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Black Hood #8 CVR A Reg: Francesco Francavilla
The Black Hood #8 CVR B Variant: Robert Hack
On Sale: 1/13
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

“The Lonely Crusade, Part 2”

The Black Hood has tracked down the “Crusaders”—a mysterious group of vigilantes who have vowed to clean the “scum” off the streets of Philadelphia. But their first encounter leaves our man beaten, humbled… and hungry for payback. The Crusaders, however, have some payback of their own in mind. Especially when they stumble upon the Hood’s real identity… Artist extraordinaire ROBERT HACK (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, The X-Files) as he takes over art duties in this special issue.

BlackHood_08-0

Alex’s Favourite Comics of 2015

Posted on by

Now that 2015 is in the history books, it’s time to have a look back at some of the comics that really stood out for me, personally. These comics were all released this year, and in the case of a limited series if had at least two issues released this year (if a mini series began late this year, then expect to find it on next years Yearly Round Up). Remember that this is all based on what I’ve read, and if your favourite comic isn’t here, I may not have read it.

Best Ongoing Superhero Comic

moonknightThis wasn’t as easy a choice as I expected, and the comic that I ended up selecting as my #1 is there because of the awe I felt when reading it, even if it may not have been on my radar until half way through the year. But honestly, any one of the runners up could have easily taken this slot (and I’m still wishing I had decided on a “top five” for this category without picking a winner, but that just feels like a cop out on my behalf).

Moon Knight (Marvel)– This was THE book for me this year, and perhaps one of the biggest reasons I was against Marvel suspending publication of some of their titles over the summer, because it meant I wouldn’t get to read any Moon Knight. This book’s use of colour, and the deliberate lack there of with the title character consistently made my jaw drop, and I loved how each issue told a complete story. 

Honourable Mentions:

  • Rai (Valiant) This is a beautifully painted comic, and I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed this series because I will typically shy away from anything set too far into the future. But some stellar writing, the gorgeously rendered artwork and the introduction of one of my favourite comic book characters elevated this series above almost any other this year for me. Why wasn’t it my top pick? Because the coin landed on tails.
  • Captain Canuck (Chapter House) A comic that exemplifies exactly what I love about comics. Action, humour, and a style that doesn’t preclude younger readers from enjoying it.
  • Howard The Duck (Marvel) I loved everything about this series, the art may not have been super detailed but it was absolutely perfect for Chip Zdarsky’s writing style. I’ve described issues of the two series this year as an almost anti-Marvel Marvel comic. The dry humour, jabs at Secret Wars, and the fact that there were two first issues of Howard the Duck in one year combine to make this one of the best series of the year.
  • X-O Manowar (Valiant) Is another series that took me by surprise this year. I wasn’t expecting such a well rounded character who exemplified virtues that we all wished we had. That he’s a time-stranded 5th century warrior in control of the most powerful weapon on Earth? The icing on the cake.
  • Wrath Of The Eternal Warrior (Valiant) Although only two issues in, I’m already eagerly anticipating the next issue. This is a series that focuses on one of the most interesting characters in comics, the immortal guardian of the Earth, and forces the reader to ask themselves whether if they can do something to help others, would you risk everything to do so?

 

Best Non Superhero Comic 

johnnyred2 coverI’d love to say that I had as much trouble with this category, but… I didn’t. There were several great non-superhero series that I didn’t read this year, and a few that I did. None came even remotely close to taking the top spot for me, hence no honourable mentions.

Johnny Red (Titan) is comic that reminded me so much of the old British war comics that I read as a child, striking a powerful nostalgic cord within me. There’s something inherently powerful about nostalgia done well, and I understand not everybody will have the same emotional attachment to the series.

But on top of the nostalgic glory, the thing is is that there is also a very good comic lying underneath. Focusing on the search for the history of a plane, Garth Ennis uses an interesting method of telling the World War Two era story, coupled with some fantastic double page spreads from Keith Burns, and Johnny Red was a  very easy choice for me here. I’d encourage you to check it out.

 

Best Limited Series or One Shot 

paybacks1The Paybacks (Dark Horse) This was one of those series that just crept up on me. I read it up on a whim, and I laughed all the way through. It’s a fantastic look at the darker side of superheroing, and what happens when the bills mount up. If this was an ongoing series, it would have easily been my best book of the year, that it’s only a miniseries is the only bad complaint I have.

Honourable Mentions:

  • The Fox (Dark Circle) Six issues of pure brilliance. If you haven’t read this, you really should, because this is what a superhero miniseries should be.
  • We Stand On Guard (Image) An effective look at a decades long conflict between the USA and Canada that, at times, seems a little too on point for comfort. This isn’t an easy series to read, and there is very little that’s black and white if you consider both sides to the story. It’s brutal, but absolutely worth reading.
  • Old Man Logan (Marvel)  I don’t think I realized just how much I missed Wolverine until I picked the first issue of this comic up. One of only two Secret Wars tie ins I read, the series seemed to falter a little in the middle until I finally twigged as to what Bendis was doing, and had a light bulb moment. I’m looking forward to the new ongoing series that’s due to hit later this month.
  • Hank Johnson: Agent Of Hydra (Marvel)  The other Secret Wars tie in was a great look at the daily life of the typical henchman. It’s a shame there was only one issue, but any more than one may not have gone over quite as well.
  • Legends Of The Geomancer (Valiant) The only reason this didn’t take the top spot is the same reason I struggled to recommend this series to people: Valiant’s insane distribution choice. This brilliant-in-every-way-series was a retailer incentive that was notoriously hard to find in the wild. But if you could find it, it was absolutely amazing.

 

Best Single Issue

batman-44-coverAgain, there’s no honourable mentions because there was nothing remotely close to Batman #44 (DC) for me this year.

There was never a question of this comic not being the best single issue I’ve read this year. Aesthetically this is a stunning comic, with the colours and lettering just elevating an already well drawn issue. That it also is the first time we see Bruce Wayne as Batman in the series post convergence also struck a cord with me; it wasn’t until reading this issue that I realized how much I don’t enjoy the Robot Bunny Batman.

In conjunction to that the slap to the face that Snyder delivers with his commentary on the societal injustices of the day make this issue just incredible.  If you only read one comic from last year, make it this one.

 

Best Event/Story Arc

bod4cThis is another category where there was only ever going to be one choice for me. I started reading Valiant’s comics around the middle of the year, and they quickly became my favourite publisher. They may not release many comics every week, but the ones they do release are almost always among the best on the racks that week. Valiant emphasize quality over quantity, and it shows with what is arguably the best and most cohesive super hero universe out there today.

Book Of Death (Valiant) As a new reader, this event was incredibly friendly. Despite the tagline being the final story of some of the publisher’s greatest heroes told in tie in one shots (and all but one of those were fantastic, and even then the less than great issue was largely because I had no idea  about the characters involved), the entire event was incredibly accessible  from a story line point of view. The main four issue mini series was head and shoulders above anything else released this year, whether that means an event or an arc told within a series.

If I’m being completely honest, this could have placed on almost every category this year for me, I loved it that much, but with there already being so much Valiant here, I figured that maybe, just maybe, I shouldn’t go overkill with the publisher.

Runners Up:

  •  Ivar, Timewalker: Ending History (Valiant) This was just a phenomenal arc that utilized time travel in a way that I’d never seen before. Technically this is the third part of a trilogy, but you don’t need to have read the first two parts to love this chapter – I didn’t.
  •  Batman: Endgame (DC) This was without a doubt my favourite Batman centric arc this year. Snyder was really able to give the story a sense of impending doom and finality leading into DC’s lackluster Convergence arc that can be hard to do in comics. I reread this a few days ago, and the quality of this arc reminded me of just how great the Batman series can be.
  • X-O Manowar: Exodus (Valiant) If you ever want to read an arc that perfectly encapsulates being stuck between a rock and a hard place, this is it. The artwork is beautifully realized, and convey’s the sheer power of X-O Manowar brilliantly.

 

 

Robert Hack visits Philly for The Black Hood #8, Greg Scott takes on regular art duties with #9

Posted on by

The Black Hood’s return to the cruel and dangerous streets of Philadelphia continues as the critically acclaimed Dark Circle Comics series welcomes artists Robert Hack and Greg Scott for the next chapters of “The Lonely Crusade.”

Robert Hack, artist of the hit Archie Horror series Chilling Adventures of Sabrina joins writer Duane Swierczynski as the guest artist for January’s The Black Hood #8, bringing his twisted and grim style to the pages of Swierczynki’s crime noir thriller.

Greg Scott joins The Black Hood in February as the new regular series artist, jumping head-first into Officer Gregory Hettinger’s one man fight against a new criminal force known as The Crusaders.

BlackHood#8

Preview: The Black Hood #7

Posted on by

THE BLACK HOOD #7

Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Michael Gaydos, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick
Cover: Francesco Francavilla
Variant Cover: David Mack
On Sale Date: 11/25
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

“The Lonely Crusade, Part 1” Greg Hettinger returns to Philadelphia and promises his closest friend, Jessie Dupree, that his hood-wearing vigilante days are over. But it’s a promise he’s going to struggle to keep—especially when a gang calling themselves “The Crusaders” are prowling the City of Brotherly Love, scooping up “undesirables” and asking if they want to be saved…    The second action-packed arc of The Black Hood begins here!

BlackHood#7RegCover

Archie Comics in February 2016

Posted on by

THE BLACK HOOD #10

“The Lonely Crusade, Part 4” When he donned the Black Hood, Greg Hettinger swore to keep the awful truth from those he cares about most—his partner Devon, his friend Jessie. But he’s going to have to break those promises if he’s going to survive the death trap that the Crusaders have prepared for him… and nothing will ever be the same.

Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Michael Gaydos, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Black Hood #10 CVR A Reg: Francesco Francavilla
The Black Hood #10 CVR B Variant: David Mack
On Sale Date: 2/24
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

BlackHood#10 BlackHood#10macksvar

THE HANGMAN #5

“Damned, Part 5” This is it—a battle that’s been brewing for eons! The Devil vs. Asmodeus! With the fate of the Hangman in the balance! Will the outcome cost Mike Minetta his family… and his soul? Find out as Damned hits its startling conclusion!

Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
The Hangman #5 CVR A Reg: Tim Bradstreet
The Hangman #5 CVR B Variant: Felix Ruiz
On Sale Date: 3/2
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

TheHangman#5BradstVar TheHangman#5Ruizvar

ARCHIE #6

The biggest comic series of the year continues into 2016! Archie and Jughead are on the outs with each other, and now Archie has no one to help him against the fury that is Hiram Lodge!  Not even Veronica wants to go up against her own father!​ Rising star comics artist Veronica Fish (Howard the Duck, the RIVERDALE CW promo image) joins the legendary Mark Waid for another brand new issue of the hit series!
Script: Mark Waid

Art: Veronica Fish, Andre Szymanowicz, Jen Vaughn, Jack Morelli
Archie #6 CVR A Reg Cover: Veronica Fish
Archie #6 CVR B Variant: Derek Charm
Archie #6 CVR C Variant: Marguerite Sauvage
On Sale Date: 2/17
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Archie#6 Archie#6CharmVar Archie#6Sauvagevar

ARCHIE: VOLUME 1 (TR)

ARCHIE, one of the longest-running titles in comic book history, is rebooted here in this full-color collection that brings together two of the most talented creators in comics, Mark Waid and Fiona Staples. Together they create a surprising and definitive take on the origins of everyone’s favorite redheaded teen and his friends while showcasing the beginnings of the historic love triangle between Archie, Betty and Veronica. The book captures the bite and hilarious edge of Archie’s original tales in a modern, forward-looking manner, while still retaining the character’s all-ages appeal. ARCHIE Vol. 1 collects ARCHIE #1-6 and features bonus content including scripts, sketches and variant covers.

Script: Mark Waid
Art: Fiona Staples, Annie Wu, Veronica Fish, Andre Szymanowicz, Jen Vaughn, Jack Morelli
Cover: Fiona Staples
978-1-62738-867-2
$19.99/$21.99 CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
TR
160 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/9

ArchieVol1

ARCHIE’S FUNHOUSE COMICS ANNUAL #19

Veronica puts all thoughts of Archie aside when her parents reveal that one of her old friends from summer camp has blossomed into a Hollywood hunk and is coming to their house for a visit. But when Ron gets a glimpse at the tanned California girls this leading man seems to favor, will she go several steps too far to try and transform herself into his ideal love interest? Find out in “Orange You Lovely,” the brand new lead story to this comics annual, featuring even more pages of fun!

Script: James Gartler
Art: Bill Galvan
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/9
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.

FunhouseComAnn#19

ARCHIE COMICS SPECTACULAR: HIGH SCHOOL HIJINKS (TR)

Get ready for some classroom calamity with all of your favorite Riverdale High School students! This edition collects the best high school stories from Archie and his friends! This fun, pocket-sized collection features 128 pages of hand-picked, favorite school-centric stories, presented in high-quality, bright white paper with a cardstock cover.

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Various
978-1-62738-866-5
$5.99/$6.99 CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16″
TR
128 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/2

HighschoolHijinks

BETTY & VERONICA COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #241

This time in “the Many Loves of Archie Andrews,” Archie has decided to set his sights on Sabrina the Teenage Witch! And, after being dumped by her long-time boyfriend, Harvey, Sabrina’s ready to move on—and our red-headed Romeo is just the mortal to do the trick! There’s only one person who’s standing in the way of true romance—actually, make that two people—Sabrina’s aunts Hilda and Zelda! If you think Mr. Lodge and Archie have clashed before… wait until you see Archie vs. Zelda and Hilda in “Witch Way Out?” the brand new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Bill Galvan, Jim Amash, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 2/17
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

B&VDDigest#241

B&V FRIENDS COMICS ANNUAL #247

Betty and Veronica just can’t agree who has the more difficult life. Betty says that her financial status means she has to work extra hard, while Ronnie says that her parents put a lot of pressure on her to measure up to the Lodge family name. There’s only one way to settle this argument: by trading places for a day! When the girls have to walk in each other’s shoes, what will they learn about their BFF—and themselves? Find out in “Room for Improvement,” the brand new lead story to this comics annual featuring even more pages of fun!

Script: Angelo DeCesare
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 2/24
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.

B&VFriendsComDig#247

JUGHEAD & ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #19

When Mr. Lodge needs some assistance fixing up Lodge Manor, Archie and Jughead offer to help make some repairs. Mr. Lodge isn’t sure he trusts them, but with the power of “how-to” videos on MyTube, Archie promises that they can fix anything—and for free! Will Archie and Jughead be regular fixer-uppers, or will Mr. Lodge end up getting exactly what he paid for? Find out in “Fixit Friends,” the hilarious lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Francis Bonnet
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/2
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

Jug&ArchieComDig#19

SONIC / MEGA MAN: WORLDS UNITE Vol. 2 “Broken Bonds”

The sequel to the record-shattering Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man crossover is here! You saw what happened when “Worlds Collide!” Now brace yourself for when WORLDS UNITE! Sigma—the brilliant villain from the future—has fused the worlds of Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man together! Now he feeds on the super-planet’s energy to become unstoppable! It’s up to Sonic and Mega Man to raise an army to fight the time-hopping villain. Joining them are the Freedom Fighters, the Robot Masters, X and his Maverick Hunters, Sticks and her friends, and—Dr. Eggman and Dr. Wily?! But it won’t be easy, as Sigma uses his powers to reach across space and time to recruit an army of his own! It’s a battle of epic proportions to save the Unified World! Featuring the introduction of the STREET FIGHTER cast, including Ryu, Chun-Li, Guile and Ken! This volume collects WORLDS UNITE parts 5-8, including SONIC UNIVERSE #77, SONIC BOOM #9, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #274, MEGA MAN #51 and selections from the MEGA MAN: WORLDS UNITE BATTLES and SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: WORLDS UNITE BATTLES plus special features!

Script: Ian Flynn and various
Art: Edwin Huang, Gary Martin, John Workman, Gabriel Cassata and various
Cover: Patrick Spaziante
978-1-62738-868-9
$14.99/$16.99 CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
TR
136 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/9

Worlds_Unite_2

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #282

SONIC fights FIRE with FURY in “Wings of Fire” Part Two: When Sonic was infected with the Dark Gaia energy, he nearly all lost control of his mutant Werehog form. So what happens when an ancient and powerful phoenix gets turned to the dark side?!  It’s a three-way battle as Sonic and Dulcy’s teams battle for their lives against the Dark Gaia Phoenix and Egg Army! Then, in “Shards and Sparks,” Knuckles and Mighty reunite to take on Egg Boss Thunderbolt! Featuring cover art by the terrific Tyson Hesse and a spooky “Horror Movie” variant by the mega-talented T. Rex!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jennifer Hernandez, Terry Austin, John Workman & Gabriel Cassata
Sonic the Hedgehog #282 CVR A Reg: Tyson Hesse
Sonic the Hedgehog #282 CVR B Variant: T. Rex
On Sale Date: 3/9
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Sonic#282 Sonic#282var

SONIC UNIVERSE #85

Dr. EGGMAN gets CRACKING in “Eggman’s Dozen” Part Three: Dr. Eggman has assembled his evil Egg Bosses to take back his Egg Refinery from the Naugus Twins! The plan seems straight forward enough, but what happens when the Eggman’s minions can’t work together? Can the mad doctor scramble to survive or will his shaky alliances leave him fried? Featuring egg-tastic cover art by dynamite Diana Skelly and a wonderfully “Wicked” variant cover by artist supreme Dan Schoening!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #85 CVR A Reg: Diana Skelly, Jim Amash & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #85 CVR B Variant: Dan Schoening & Luis Antonio Delgado
On Sale Date: 2/24
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

SonicUniv#85 SonicUniv#85var

Preview: The Hangman #1

Posted on by

THE HANGMAN #1

Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
Cover: Timothy Bradstreet
Variant Covers: Felix Ruiz, Francesco Francavilla, Robert Hack
On Sale Date: 11/4
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

They say the Hangman is nothing more than an urban legend. A spook story told to scare criminals straight. But those who encounter him—like hitman “Mad Dog” Mike Minetta—know different. They know that when he comes for you… you’re dead already. Join fan-favorite writer Frank Tieri (WOLVERINE, BATMAN) and artist extraordinaire Felix Ruiz (WOLVERINE MAX, HALO) for an ongoing tale of horror, the supernatural and violence…  and learn why some men may never be redeemed.

TheHangman#1

Mini Reviews

Posted on by

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.

Review: The Hangman #1

Posted on by

TheHangman#1They say the Hangman is nothing more than an urban legend. A spook story told to scare criminals straight. But those who encounter him—like hitman “Mad Dog” Mike Minetta—know different. They know that when he comes for you… you’re dead already. Join fan-favorite writer Frank Tieri and artist extraordinaire Felix Ruiz  for an ongoing tale of horror, the supernatural and violence…  and learn why some men may never be redeemed.

The last series from Dark Circle Comics I read was the fantastic The Fox. It was a mixture of mad cap action, odd ball humour and surprising moments of comic ultra violence (albeit rare in the six issues released). The Fox was one of the best comics on the rack every week when it released because it was above all other things fun.

Something The Hangman isn’t.

The first issue of The Hangman is a particularly violent comic that’s liberally doused with dialogue that at times borders on excessive with the amount of, shall we say, sweary goodness.  Now I’ve nothing against cursing, an while I usually try to avoid it in my writing, I am well aware that when used well it’s a great tool to accentuate your point and to give added depth to your characters. That there’s cursing in The Hangman #1 doesn’t bother me, indeed in some scenes it is quite effective, but there are other panels – perhaps one or two too many – where Frank Tieri goes above and beyond using the curse words as an effective tool and instead crosses the line into excess; that most of the excessive sweary goodness comes from one character is worth noting, and perhaps Tieri is underscoring the kind of guy that Mike Minetta is with the language he uses, and it took me a little out of the story; your mileage may vary, however.

Felix Ruiz provides some solid artwork, which is complemented nicely by Kelly Fitzpatrick‘s colours, especially as the comic progresses, and goes a long way to immersing you in the grubby feeling of the world we’re entering. More than almost anything else, it’s the artwork that set the tone with some scenes angled a certain way to give you a feel for the characters within the comic. 

The story itself serves as a gateway into the world of The Hangman who seems (based off the preview imagery alone) like a mix between the Punisher and Batman, but how accurate that is is still an unanswered question, which I suspect will be answered within the next issue or two. The Hangman #1 genuinely disappointed me; I really wanted to like this series, and while it’s still too early to judge a series based on one issue, that first issue wasn’t a great start for me. I couldn’t help but compare it to the other Dark Circle offerings, and for me at least, it didn’t quite measure up.

I’m not ready to give up on The Hangman just yet, however, and hopefully the series will hit its stride with the next issue. If it does, I’ll let you know.

Story: Frank Tieri Art: Felix Ruiz Colours: Kelly Fitzpatrick
Story: 6.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.5 Recommendation: Pass

Dark Circle Comics provided Graphic Policy a FREE copy for review.

« Older Entries Recent Entries »