It’s Saturday and that means I’ll be at the Small Press Expo this weekend! Expect some great coverage of indie comics this coming week.
Around the Blogs:
Lex18 – Scott Co. Man Meets Burglars Trying To Sell His Stolen Comic Books -Ha!
Around the Tubes Reviews:
ICv2 – Drama
CBR – Punk Rock Jesus #3
CBR – Resurrection Man #0
That’s another week covered. Slowly catching up and hopefully there’ll be another week reviewed by the end of this one!
America’s Got Powers #1 – Jonathan Ross and Bryan Hitch’s new series might be the Hunger Games meets superheroes and holy crap is it good. I kept turning each page with glee. So solid, words don’t do it justice at all. This is an absolute buy and will be the mini-series of the Summer.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
Avengers Assemble #2 – The Zodiac are gathering devices of amazing power and someone is in the background guiding them. The story is interesting, but series still seems a bit second class compared to the other Avengers titles. Still, the story is entertaining enough.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Avenging Spider-Man #6 – Spider-Man, Daredevil and the Punisher team up to protect the Omegadrive and take down five crime syndicates? Yes please! This issue combines the best of this series and Waid’s Daredevil with Rucka’s Punisher. So fantastic.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
Batgirl #8 – Barbara deals with one of the Joker’s henchmen that was present when she was shot. It’s a decent issue that’ll keep me interested in the series that much longer.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Batman and Robin #8 – Bruce must deal wit the after effects of his and Damian’s battle with Nobody. It’s a fantastic issue that focuses on a father and his son.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5
Batwoman #8 – Great art and layout with a confusing and muddled story. This is a pale comparison of the greatness that this series once saw. A shame too.
Story: 5 Art: 8 Overall: 6
The Bionic Man #8 – Kevin Smith and Phil Hester’s comic is the big screen movie I want to see. So much fun. So much action. So much entertainment.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Fantastic Four #605 – Reed and his father head through time to see what their recent actions have caused. The issue is fantastic I think focusing on the heart and relationship of characters.
Story: 9 Art: 8 Overall: 8.75
Fatale #4 – Brubaker’s series is interesting, but not my cup of tea compared to his other previous noir series’. Something just isn’t clicking for me.
Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7
Green Lantern #8 – Sinestro and Jordan are prisoners of the Indigo Tribe and it looks like we’re going to learn more about this mysterious Corps. So far, it’s pretty interesting.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Journey Into Mystery #636 – The final piece of Loki’s plan is revealed and it’s really entertaining. This series deserves a bigger audience with some fantastic writing.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5
Mega Man #12 – The series has taken a familiar formula and made it work. Luckily that formula changes a bit in the next issue, but that doesn’t mean this isn’t a fun read for the whole family.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
The Mighty Thor #12.1 – We get some various tales about Thor that hint at a lot. If this is to introduce people to Thor, I definitely don’t think it’s interesting enough to hook them. Again a “point one” fails.
Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7
The New Avengers #24 – Luke and Jessica have issues to deal with. We also get a behind the scenes look as Captain America rallies the troops for AVX. The issue is one giant build up, but it’s solid.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5
Resurrection Man #8 – Shelley’s secrets are being slowly shown and released. This series is fantastic and one of the best new ones of the DC relaunch.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Saga #2 – Wow, Brian K. Vaughn’s series is amazing. It’s a sci-fi action adventure that has familiar parts, but in an all new way. Just beyond fantastic and one of the best series of the year.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75
Saucer Country #2 – I love this series. The X-Files meets West Wing series is just so fresh and so new. I can’t say I’ve ever read anything like this before.
Story: 10 Art: 8.25 Overall: 9.5
Scarlet Spider #4 – I’m not a Spider-Man fan, but I’m a fan of this series. There’s something so fresh and so fun about it. I can’t recommend it enough.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Secret #1 – Hickman’s latest series is one hell of a mystery. It’s more than enough for me to come back for the second issue, but I can’t say it blows me away like other series of his in the past.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Secret Avengers #25 – The story arc has been interesting, but I didn’t see that ending coming. It’s so good. So, so good.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5
the Secret Service #1 – Millar’s latest series in his big push, it’s just not all that solid so far, but it has enough for me to check out the second issue.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Superboy #8 – Dropped!
Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6
Suicide Squad #8 – We get a bit more of the story behind Waller and the formation of the squad. There’s also a secret hinted at that’s really entertaining and builds potential for the series.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5
Thief of Thieves #3 – Kirkman and Spencer’s series is amazing. Redmond is a great main character and the fact the series focuses on the individuals and characters is top notch. An absolute must buy.
Story: 9 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8.5
Ultimate Comics X-Men #10 – Holy shit was that a hell of an ending.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75
Uncanny X-Men #10 – There’s a lot of build up and foreshadowing here, but it looks like there’s some stuff that has good potential for future plotlines.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5
Winter Soldier #4 – Bucky teams up with Doom and it is awesome.
Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8
Wolverine #304 – Sabretooth throws a party and I’m irritated in the art constantly switching.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Another week down. Almost getting caught up on reviews.
the Avengers #24 – We now know Osborn’s powers and it’s a bit predictable as to how he’s beaten. The story’s ending is ok, not quite the long term shake-up you’d expect from this type of story. Overall, a solid story arc that doesn’t quite end the way you’d hope. It feels rushed and a bit predictable.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5
Avengers Assemble #1 – A new Zodiac has formed, but other than the Hulk being in this comic, there’s not a whole lot that makes this series stand out from the other Avengers comics out there. In fact the art is a bit off and story fairly unexciting. Not sure this is a comic I want to assemble for.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5
Batgirl #7 – More of the Barbara Gordon pitty party as she seeks out the Black Canary to spar a bit, then she goes on a mission. There’s parts where the art is great and other parts, not so much. The story is just ok.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5
Batman and Robin #7 – Batman vs. Nobody and the art is solid. That ending though, I didn’t quite expect. The comic was simple, but it kept me on my toes as to who would do what in the fight and how they’d deal with Nobody. Interesting stuff…
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Battle Scars #5 – Hmm, the secret is out and I saw yawn. The series is an attempt to get the 616 universe more like the movies, which is a bit silly. Overall, we’ll see what idiocy comes of this.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75
Batwoman #7 – The story jumps around, and I’m not sure I know everything that’s going on. The visuals aren’t quite as amazing as they used to be, but the series is still a solid read with some amazing artwork at times.
Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5
Captain America #9 – Steve is still depowered, Sharon makes a deal to save him and Falcon goes after Bravo, I wonder where the comic’s quality has gone. Just not quite as fund as it used to be.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25
Daken: Dark Wolverine #22 – Daken continues to lash out and spread terror as he dies. He’s setting off bombs and generally just causing chaos. I really hope there’s some long term plan with the character. I’d hate to see him go to waste.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5
Fantastic Four #604 – And with that, the end of the battle with the Mad Celestials. A lot is thrown out there in this issue and I’d imagine it’ll have a lot of repercussions for the Fantastic Four going forward. It’ll be interesting to see where things go from here.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Green Lantern #7 – The series finally focuses on the Indigo Tribe which we know so little about. Looks pretty interesting so far.
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25
Journey Into Mystery #635 – Loki, Daimon and Leah continue to fight Nightmare. Loki does the usual Loki thing and cuts a deal that’s clearly not what it is on the surface. As usual, the comic is thick with material (aka words), but they’re weaved so well together.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Mega Man #11 – Mega Man takes on Air Man, Metal Man and Flash Man and then gets caught in Dr. Wily’s plan. The ending is so cool. I can’t recommend the series enough. It’s fantastic for kids and parents alike, especially for fans of the video game series.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
The Punisher #9 – The prelude to the crossover with Spider-Man and Daredevil the issue is short and a quick read. But… looks like Punisher has a new partner and that never seems to go well.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Resurrection Man #7 – On the run in Metropolis, Resurrection Man runs into another super being and gets another power. He’s finally at the point where he’s going to look for his past and figure out who he is. It’s a great mystery and one I want to see more of the answer to.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Saga #1 – Brian K. Vaughn’s new series deserves all of the hype. It’s very familiar, but at the same time, beyond fantastic. This’ll be a hot series for a long time coming and the usual excellence I expect from such a talented writer.
Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9
Saucer Country #1 – A Governor must deal with her political future as she contemplates running for President of the United States. Something is wrong though. Is it something having to do with her ex-husband? Is it something stranger like aliens? And what does a college professor have to do with it all? The first issue is absolutely amazing. One of the best comics of the year and one of the best political comics in a long time.
Story: 10 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9.5
Scarlet Spider #3 – Kaine’s supporting cast is growing and looks like some decent baddies are coming to town. I don’t want to ruin it, but the story is solid, interaction great and art is amazing. I’ve never been a big Spider-Man fan, but this series has me hooked. So fantastic, I kind of want to find out more about this character and his background.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75
Suicide Squad #7 – The search for Harley Quinn continues as a bunch of members of Task Force X storm a police station. There’s some holy shit moments that show this series leaves it all out there and anything can happen. The series is pretty decent and it’s draw is more the fact that everything is on the table and anyone can die. I was not expecting quite a few moments in the story and thats a good thing.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5
Superboy #7 – Superboy continues to show how much of an arrogant brat he is and gets his butt kicked. The series is ok, but how it ties into Teen Titans is what keeps me coming back. If I dropped one, I’d feel like I’d need to drop both, especially since there’s a lot of crossover occurring.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Thief of Thieves #2 – I think the second issue might have outdone the first with a look into Redmond/Conrad’s life. There’s a lot of looking into his past and his ex-wife. The comic is fantastic focusing on the characters instead of the action. I can see why this is being turned into a television series, it’s that damn good.
Story: 9.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9.5
Ultimate Comics X-Men #9 – The news of mutant’s origins hits Camp Angel which doesn’t go over well. All hell is about to break loose in this series as an oppressed people decide to stand up for themselves.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Wolverine & The X-Men #7 – So much action, so much humor, so much fun. The series is a kinetic blast that’s all over the place. There’s just so much to take in, this series is now the best “X” series going right now. Just beyond fantastic.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5
X-Men: Legacy #263 – Exodus is defeated, lots of arguing goes on and something is hinted at. The story is ok, but plays well as a piece of the bigger picture. We’ll hopefully see what that is soon.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
X-23 #21 – I think this is it for the series. In this final and quiet issue, Laura deals with her dual sides, the vicious killer and the human being she wants to be. It’s an interesting ending, understated and quiet. A nice reflection of a character who hasn’t quite found the leading solo series position she deserves and a character that has a lot more depth than any fan is willing to give her credit for.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Getting closer to catching up with reviews.
Batgirl #6 – The best part of the issue is the quiet moments where Barbara reflects on her being Batgirl and her relationship with Batman. Other than that, the bad guy isn’t as fleshed out as she should be, but hopefully we’ll get some of that in the future. The best moments really are when the characters are shown their humanity to the point we can relate.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5
Batman and Robin #6 – The twist is predictable, but Bruce’s emotion when it comes to Damian is something that’s nice to see. The series is interesting and has it’s place in the rather large amount of Batman books on the market.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Battle Scars #4 – We’re all buying this comic for the same reason. Doesn’t mean it’s all that good. Sigh.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75
Batwoman #6 – The art is solid as usual, but the story is still off. Something just isn’t clicking for me when it comes to the plot. It’s really a comic that survives for the art alone and that’s sad with such amazing characters.
Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5
The Bionic Man #6 – Lots of fighting, sadly not much more. But, somehow the comic is still very fun. This is a great first arc for the series and makes me interested in a character I’ve never been interested in.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5
Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #529 – That’s a wrap for the series that to few people checked out. The art bounced around a bit towards the end, but the series played out like an entertaining chess game. It’s a shame a solid series such as this didn’t find an audience.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Captain America #8 – Yet another story where Cap loses his powers. It’s cool to see the Reborn mini-series matter, the story itself is just not the quality we’ve seen in the past. Something is off from the previous magic.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Daken: Dark Wolverine #21 – Daken is dying and he’s decided to go out with a bang. Another series that was pretty solid at times and there’s times it showed brilliance. Sadly it also never quite caught on with the audience it should of. Daken was more than a Wolverine knock-off, more people just never found out how much of an individual he was.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75
Green Hornet Annual #2 – The Green Hornet takes on slave traders. I really wish more was shown, but there’s some great stuff in this annual just the same quality of the series. Usually annuals mean crap, this is the exception to that.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75
Green Lantern #6 – Sinestro is on a mission and Hal is trying to have a normal life. Sadly Hal trying to live his life doesn’t get a chance to really explore that before he’s pulled back into being Green Lantern. Not as solid as it was pre-52 relaunch, but still an entertaining series.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Journey Into Mystery #634 – We now know who the baddie is and what he’s up to. There’s so much that’s solid here and this is a series that’s growing on me more and more. There’s a lot of text and the writing is so good, it’s well worth the lengthy (compared to most comics) read. Just beyond entertaining.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75
Mega Man #10 – Mega Man takes on a few more robot masters as he gets pulled into the dark side and let the power go to his head again. On top of that, he’s taking a beating. You can feel the pressure building in what is a great adaptation of the video game and the perfect comic for the entire family.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
New Mutants #37 – Amara has her date with the devil and a story I went into rolling my eyes at I came out of with a smile on my face. It was very cute and well done. There’s some great humor, writing and entertaining logic throughout. This version of the devil is pretty fun and entertaining. I’m actually hoping to see more of him in the series.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Resurrection Man #6 – Wow, so good. Resurrection Man is in Arkham and no one believes him when he says he has to die. But, he also stands in the way of a break out and the inmates making it back into Gotham. So much is so good in this issue. When of the best to come out of the DC relaunch.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Scarlet Spider #2 – I’ve never been a huge fan of Spider-Man, but there’s something about this series that draws me in. Maybe it’s the conflicted person at the center, the solid art of entertaining writing. The combo of the three is great and this is a series that has me interested in what it’ll bring in the future.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Secret Avengers #22 – Huh, an interesting bad guy and can’t say I’ve seen them before, but that ending has me wanting to see more of them. The new squad has a better focus and a more interesting dynamic. Here’s hoping Remender’s run is as solid as some of his others.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Suicide Squad #6 – Harley Quinn is on the run and the Suicide Squad is after her. There’s some I like here, but a lot I didn’t. Quinn’s origin is fleshed out a bit, but not enough yet to give her motivation or much as far as character. We’ll see how this goes, but it’s no Secret Six.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Superboy #6 – Superboy meets Supergirl and there’s the expected fighting. Lots of questions are raised too. The art is off a bit and something about the story isn’t clicking for me. But I’ll stick with it to see the growth of the character I expect and you just know he’ll become a Teen Titan at some point.
Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7
Thief of Thieves #1 – There’s a lot of series this year so far that have had a lot of hype around them and this series is one of the few that’s lived up to it all. A thief has to juggle his career and personal life in a series that’s just fantastic on all levels. That ending is fantastic and the build up and character interaction is just solid. Can’t wait to see where the series goes.
Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9
Venom #13.1 – Some I liked with this issue but a bunch I didn’t. The usual result of having some event or crossover derailing a solid issue continues. The idea of Venom being caught up in a battle with Hell just doesn’t fit the character and there’s some much better material to mine.
Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75
Wolverine and the X-Men #5 – The art seems to be off a bit with this issue, but it’s really entertaining mixing some great concepts together. The series has thrown out the serious tone that’s plagued the X-Men for quite some time, replacing them with fantastical concepts and a great amount of humor. One of the best “X” books on the market.
Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8
Wolverine and the X-Men: Alpha & Omega #2 – Wolverine stuck in the virtual reality thing is entertaining up to a point, but just not quite sure the point or need of the mini-series. It hasn’t added much to the overall dynamics and we’re not seeing anything new or shocking.
Story: 6.75 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75
X-Men #24 – Jubilee deals with her vampire side, while the X-Men search for her. What’s up with the art?!
Story: 6.5 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.5
Catching up on reviews….
Batgirl #5 – There’s a new villain for Batgirl called Gretel and some weirdness with the number 338. It’s all ok, but not the quality we know Gail Simone can do. The best parts of the series are the quiet moments when Barbara is reflecting on her life in and out of the cape.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5
Batman and Robin #5 – Damian has thrown his lot in with Ducard as we get the background between Ducard and Wayne. The story is ok and somewhat predictable. The art is changed up a bit too. Overall, the read is good, but not necessarily great.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Battle Scars #3 – The issue is a lot of fighting as Marcus Johnson continues to try to figure out who is trying to kill him. This six issue limited series just feels like one long origin story. Hopefully it pays off.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Batwoman #5 – The series relaunch isn’t as quality as the previous with a supernatural bent to it all. The story is so-so, but the art is amazing. It’s a buy just for that reason alone. Hopefully the story quality ramps up a bit as the series progresses.
Story: 7 Art: 8.75 Overall: 7.5
Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #528 – The Panther is playing a game of chess with Fisk for the fate of Wakanda. The story is entertaining enough and this issue has a very different artistic look. I loved the art and would dig seeing a pulp/noir comic that looks like this. This is the second to last issue and it’ll be interesting to see how it ends.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
Brilliant #2 – The second issue of this Kick-Ass wannabe is ok and there’s a lot of interesting stuff in it. But, the series feels tired and not fresh enough since so many other stories have walked this territory. It’s not bad, it’s just not great.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Captain America #7 – Captain America keeps reverting and madbombs are being set off. The story has a camp feel about it, but the art I think is just not as quality as it’s been in the past. It’s a classic feel of a story, with art that also feels like it’s from the past. Overall, not as strong as the past story arcs.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5
Daken: Dark Wolverine #19 – Wow is that a bad ending. The art is sup-par, the story is a let down. Overall, not the quality that we’ve seen. It’s a shame because the character has so much potential.
Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75
Green Lantern #5 – What is the Chamber of Shadows and who is the first Lantern? So many questions are raised here after Jordan and Sinestro’s battle against the Sinestro Corps. The story is intriguing and I want to see what else is in store that hasn’t been done before.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Journey Into Mystery #633 – A transition issue with some fantastic writing, but the story itself is slow. The individual words are fantastic though. Very odd. There’s a slow fantasy build to it all as Loki has nightmares and the Son of Satan is looking for a demon. This is just the beginning but really it’s for the hardcore Thor fans.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
Mega Man #9 – Much like the video games, this latest ark feels rather similar to what’s come before. That’s not a bad thing as just with the games, it was all quality. Hopefully the story arc switches it up just enough, but it’s nostalgic fun for the whole family. Perfect for kids and their parents who grew up playing the video games.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
The New Avengers #20 – The team takes on Osborn and his crew. Overall there’s some very interesting stuff here and the usual solid and entertaining writing. I feel like we’ve seen this story before, but it’s still good.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Resurrection Man #5 – We finally get a sense of Resurrection Man’s origin and it’s actually pretty cool. The story got very interesting with the latest revelations and that ending. I’m digging the series which is one of a few that are bringing Vertigo quality and horror to the DCU.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Scarlet Spider #1 – Kaine is in Houston and the story is very fun having a bit of an edgier tone from the Spider-Man comics I’ve read in the past. The issue is the history of Kaine is so convoluted. There’s clearly torment there that adds depth to the character, but unless you know it all, there’s a bit lost in the entertainment. There is a bit at the end about Kaine, sort of, but even that just shows how overly complicated the Spider-Man history is.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Secret Avengers #21 – A mission to take on some weird beings and all I could think of was when Warren Ellis would be off of the series. It’s not bad, but there’s just not a reason for the series.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Suicide Squad #5 – It’s a jailbreak and the squad is kicking ass. The series is fun and there’s a lot of solid moments in it. It’s definitely not Secret Six and is taking a bit to find it’s footing, but the series is entertaining.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5
Superboy #5 – Superboy is having some issue with Nowhere and Gen-13 is looking like it’s coming more and more to the DC universe. There’s a lot of hints being dropped in the series which is a slow, but decent build up to…. something.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5
Ultimate Comics X-Men #6 – Wow is all I can say. So much going on and so solid. Is Rogue a traitor? Was there some plan? And who is getting her to do everything she’s doing? That answer is a shocker. I really need to go back and get caught up on everything.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Wolverine #300 – The situation with the Silver Samurai is finally being taken care of. Also, what the hell is up with Sabretooth coming back? So much I liked and so much I didn’t. But Wolverine is getting back to the decent read it used to be.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Wolverine & the X-Men #4 – Logan is dealing with the fact that he’s now as much of a teacher as he is a murderer. The issue is great with so many fantastic moments, especially for what it hints might be coming. This is one of the best “X” books out there right now.
Story: 8.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8.5
X-Factor #230 – The team is debating Guido having no soul and Jamie is in his weird world. Wolverine makes a social call and offers up the team to join his side of the split. This is the beginning of some great things I think.
Story: 8.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 8.25
X-Men: Legacy #260.1 – The series shifts to the new school with some humor mixed into the issue. The art is ok, but there’s potential here. I’m interested in seeing how this series stands out. A bit of an improvement.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7 Overall: 7.5
It’s a good mix of comics this week including a bunch I’ve been waiting to read. What’s worth it? Find out below!
American Vampire #21 – We get some insight into who Skinner is, but still not how he became what he is. That’s the story I thought was being told, but it’s clear that this story arc was just one small piece of the larger puzzle that Scott Snyder will eventually reveal. Much like his general writing style, even with the bigger story telling, Snyder takes his time, laying it out in a slow, but enjoyable reveal.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Avengers Academy #23 – The plot of future Reptil coming back to make sure his timeline happens is rather interesting, but there’s something that’s missing to me as far as the writing. The art too isn’t as top notch as I’d expect from an important title like this. As with the characters, there’s something that just seems junior to me. It’s an improvement in the series, but still not enough for me to consider it an “A” title.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25
Avengers: X-Sanction #1 – This is the first step in the big Avengers vs. X-Men fight that reaches it’s full blown madness in a few months. Cable is back to prevent a disaster in the future and to do that he has to take on the Avengers. It all revolves around Hope too, and with all the mystery surrounding her, this event has the potential to reveal a hell of a lot. The first issue is interesting and pretty solid, but quite of a few of Marvel’s recent events have started out strong too only to stumble. We’ll see if this one can buck that trend.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5
Batgirl #4 – We finally find out how Barbara is walking, even if it’s just a few panels and her battle with Mirror comes to an end in this holiday themed issue. Overall the comic is pretty good as expected with Gail Simone behind the wheel, but it still nags me about Barbara Gordon now walking. That’s not Simone’s fault, but it’s still the elephant in the room as it feels insulting to those who are in wheelchairs or who have other disabilities. The comic is good though, even with the rather lame villain.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Batman and Robin #4 – We learn a bit as to who Nobody is as the villain and Batman fight for Damian’s loyalty. It’s interesting these two so easily represent the dual sides of Damian, but it’s also so obvious this is the intent. The comic doesn’t have subtlety, but the story is entertaining and art very solid. Overall a good addition to the Bat family of comics.
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
Batwoman #4 – Flamebird gets her butt whooped as Batwoman continues to search for the missing children and attempts to have a social life. The story as usual isn’t the draw here, it’s all about the art which continues to be amazing. Hopefully the storytelling will get to the level of the art and layout and at that point, this’ll be one of the best comics out there. Until then, it’s only for people looking for something beautiful to look at.
Story: 7.25 Art: 9 Overall: 7.5
Battle Scars #2 – The mystery of Marcus Johnson isn’t revealed in this second issue…. maybe the next one? The comic is ok, but nothing that’s gotten me too excited.
Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25
Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #526 – In a plot that’s rather appropriate in today’s anti-corporate fervor, we find out exactly what Wilson Fisk wants with the Bank of Wakanda. The story is pretty solid in it’s chess like plot and the art is always great.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Green Lantern #4 – Jordan and Sinestro versus the entire Sinestro Corps. But, what happens when they fail? Captured and surrounded by people that hate them, Sinestro and Jordan have to figure out how to escape and free an enslaved world that despises them.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Iron Man 2.0 #11 – Just one more issue to go with Warmachine taking on a nano tech villain. It’s been an interesting story, but nothing quite amazing. The art in this issue though takes a dip as a few different folks hop in to put it all together. The usual interesting and unique look changes a bunch and often in a jarring way.
Story: 7.25 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7
Magneto: Not a Hero #2 – What the hell is going on? Unless you’re a die-hard “X” fan and care about Joseph/Erik/Magneto, this comic just makes little sense for the folks who haven’t been reading for decades.
Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5
the New Avengers #19 – It’s Norman Osborn’s new Dark Avengers and a lot of discussion of what worked, what didn’t and why this team is better. At the same time the new Avengers discuss Norman being loose and it looks like they have a traitor in their midst.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Resurrection Man #4 – A bunch of crazy in this issue as various forces merge to get Shelley back. There’s heaven and hell and two women sporting big guns and a guy calling himself Transhuman. The series is pretty crazy, but something very entertaining and interesting about it all.
Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8
S.H.I.E.L.D. #4 – Is this in continuity? There’s some things shown here that are pretty huge if this is happening in the 616 world. As usual, a lot I like in the series but also a lot that’s a bit dense and hard to get in to.
Story: 7.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25
Suicide Squad #4 – The cover lays it out there “betrayed by one of their own,” but who it is and why definitely caught me off guard. The second arc comes to a close and leads directly into the third. The series isn’t the tops out there and needs a bit more fine tuning to turn it into a solid Dirty Dozen type comic, but it’s still entertaining to read.
Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25
Superboy #4 – Superboy is given a choice after it’s clear who and what Red is. But, in his wandering to figure it all out, Superboy comes off as a dick. It’s interesting to follow this series, just because of it’s tie into Teen Titans, but without that, there’s not a whole lot that’s enjoyable about this Superboy.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Ultimate Comics X-Men #4 – Well, hell, I totally didn’t expect that and see that coming. Stryker attacks New York while the US government and the remaining X-Men have to figure out how to respond. The story is very familiar, but just different enough to keep me on my toes. The Ultimate universe is one where anything can happen and it does.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Uncanny X-Force #18 – Well that was one hell of an ending and I have to say I got a bit emotional for part of it, but still not sure why there was a bag. Rick Remender’s epic story of the rise of the new Apocalypse goes out with a bang and deserves to be put up there as one of the best “X” stories ever. Solid on every level.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75
The Walking Dead #92 – Just when you think writer Robert Kirkman is going to go in one direction, he throws something at you that you weren’t expecting. This issue really shakes up the series and I’m sure you’re jaw dropped at the ending like mine.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
A little late for these reviews. Was it worth it? Find out below!
Alpha Flight #5 – The team pulls in Taskmaster to help train their army as the Unity government continues to push their agenda. The art is really off, Taskmaster just doesn’t look like himself. The story is getting better, but it all feels a bit rudimentary instead of the complicated political story it should be.
Story: 7.25 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #5 – And that’s a wrap for the limited series. It’s a big action sequence that’s very Indiana Jones at times. I really liked the series overall, and it added a lot to the overall American Vampire story. The ending was solid and fun and a nice way to wrap up the story line. Here’s hoping we’ll see some more limited series and graphic novels based in this universe in the future.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Batgirl #2 – The second issue is pretty solid. The fight scenes are really good and I like how Babs has PTSD from being shot. The more I learned about the villain Mirror the more I dug him. It’s an issue that grew on me, but didn’t grab me like I’d of hoped. It’s a solid read though, and it looks like this’ll be one of the standout series of DC’s new 52.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Batman and Robin #2 – I really like Bruce and Damian, one struggling to be a father and the other struggling being a kid. That dynamic is great and watching Bruce having issues with doing and saying things a father would is great. The bad is this villain. There’s clearly history and if you don’t know what that is (like me) that section falls short. Half of the comic is fantastic, the latter half falters.
Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75
Batwoman #2 – Pretty solid story that stumbled only on a few pages, the art is just amazing. The look, the layout, it’s beyond unique and unlike anything else out there. The art alone is enough to buy the comic. Just amazing in that department.
Story: 7.75 Art: 9.5 Overall: 8.25
Black Panther #524 – A Spider-Island tie-in that’s really not needed. It does nothing to add to that story, but really this is just a bridge to the next arc which involves the Kingpin. The story is pretty bad and art isn’t as good as usual. Pretty sure you could skip this issue and miss nothing.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Daken: Dark Wolverine #15 – I was hoping the whole Daken being a drug addict would of lasted longer. I liked the art, but story seems a bit convoluted. We’ll see how it ends, but the lead up has been better than this issue.
Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7
Deathstroke #2 – I’d hope the second issue would give a bit more than over the top violence. But with little plot the second issue of the series continues it’s attempt to make Deathstroke the bad-ass character he used to be. I myself need a bit more to my characters other than over sized swords and lots of stabbing.
Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75
FF #10 – A quieter moment for the FF, everyone is scattered to where they were “needed” and that’s really the reflection here. This is the quiet before the storm as Hickman starts weaving all of the threads he’s set up together in what looks like one colossal story that’s leading up to Fantastic Four #600.
Story: 7.5 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.5
Generation Hope #12 – A choppy story, very uneven art and a reprint from another comic, sigh. The series was getting good, but this just kind of slides back to the second class X comic it was emerging from.
Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7
Green Lantern #2 – This issue sets up a dynamic that’s pretty damn interesting. It looks like Jordan gets his ring back, but with a twist that should lead to some fun stories in the future. There’s still a lot of questions about continuity, but I like where the series is going.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Grifter #2 – Hmm, I’ve decided the whole Daemonites story running in Grifter and Voodoo is a bit too They Live for me. The story is jumbled and too jumpy for me. It’s not quite a clear linear plot and something is very off. It just doesn’t feel very DC and not revealing info in a way that makes the story entertaining. The series is very off to me.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75
Jennifer Blood #5 – We get a lot more of the history and one ending I didn’t need to see. The words “bring out the gimp” come to mind. The comic is pure torture porn, but there’s something fun about it. Garth Ennis knows how to tip-toe that fine line keeping you entertained, but hating yourself for being so.
Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75
The New Avengers #17 – Osborn is back and playing on even a bigger scale. The plot is just starting and if the Green Goblin is involved, it’s going to be good. There’s never been a better time to hop on the bandwagon, cause this looks like it’s going to be a lot of fun.
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
The Punisher #4 – The Punisher is broken and it looks like the new Vulture is dead (we’ll see how long that lasts). A reporter struggles with the story and cops are chasing a killer. Lots going on in Rucka’s interesting take on the classic character. It’s a good start and I especially like the different perspective this issue has. We’ll see where it continues to go.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75
Resurrection Man #2 – Huh. The series feels like a riddle mixed in an enigma. I’m willing to stick around a while to see where the series goes, but it’s definitely interesting so far. There’s a mix of Vertigo and over the top action, a bit Preacher feel too. It’s an interesting mix overall. A decent second issue, but not absolutely amazing.
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
S.H.I.E.L.D. #3 – I am so lost as to what’s going on. The series is a bit hard to follow as individual issues and would read much better as a trade or graphic novel.
Story: 6.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25
Suicide Squad #2 – The villain is laughable but interaction in the team is great. Everyone is expendable which makes this anything is possible comic. That’s the good part. The characters are no Secret Six when it comes to banter, and there’s a line in there that negates that entire series. So glad I got into it… Not a bad second issue, but not great.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #3 – Miles still learns about his powers and comes to terms with them a bit. He also has his first few days at school which is interesting. But, most importantly, we learn when this is all occurring which is very interesting and pretty smart writing. So far so good.
Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8
Ultimate Comics X-Men #2 – A second solid issue that finds the Mutants of this world hunted and persecuted. It’s a great mix of some of the latest solid plot lines from the regular 616 Marvel universe mixed a bit and just different enough to be original. It’s familiar yet totally new and I’m hooked.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Uncanny X-Force #16 – When it comes to “X” story lines, this is it. A mix of everything that’s good, full of action and packed full of “holy shit” moments. Archangel is the new Apocalypse, X-Force keeps getting their asses beat and it all looks pretty damn hopeless. I have no idea how this is going to end.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
X-Men: Legacy #257 – The battle is space continues for about two issues too long. Can’t wait for this to be over.
Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7
X-Men: Regenesis – The sides are chosen and we get to see the various pitches. The “X” universe has shifted again and it’s looking like for the better right now.
Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8
So, for the fun of it, I’m going to be collecting all 52 DC #1 issues. And I’m going to review them all. Keep in mind, though, that I’m generally a Marvel fan and, while I’m working may way through DC’s recent big events, I’m only up through the middle of Countdown and I haven’t read any of DC’s non-event comics in a long time, so I’m coming at these stories with a bit of a disadvantage in terms of chronology and character knowledge. Since DC is certainly trying to attract new readers, though, this makes me come at them with a perspective similar to their hypothetical new fans…
Batman and Robin #1 (DC) – This one starts and ends with heavy action and has a good amount of character development in between. It all works. I’m in.
Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75
Batwoman #1 (DC) – I’m relatively new to the character of Kate Kane, but I have to say I like what I see so far. The creative team on this one appears to be top-notch and this is a comic I’ll definitely keep reading.
Story: 9 Art: 10 Overall: 9.5
Deathstroke #1 (DC) – I’m pretty conflicted about this one. It looks great and the story does a good job of establishing the horrible person that Deathstroke is while also showing that he’s a total badass. But there aren’t any characters here I want to root for (well, at least not by the last page) and I’m not enough of a fan of the character to follow him along as bad as he is here. The comic is well-done, it’s just not my type of thing. I’ll probably read issue #2, though, because of the quality of this issue.
Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5
Demon Knights #1 (DC) – I’m really not a fan of the fantasy premise behind this one. It’s not a bad premise, it’s just not one I want to read a lot of. I won’t read any more of this series, but it’s not because of a lack of quality.
Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5
Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #1 (DC) – I was totally unprepared for how much I liked this story. It is totally not at all the type of thing I would have expected to like and yet it was one of my favorite reads of week 2 of the New 52. It doesn’t break any new ground and it is incredibly similar to the recent Frankencastle run in Punisher or Hellboy, but the execution is so good, it’s a great comic. I’m definitely coming back for more.
Story: 9 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.25
Green Lantern #1 (DC) – There is a reason why Geoff Johns is where he is today and this issue is a great example of his success. The story is entertaining, including action, intrigue and humor in a perfect balance. You have compelling characters and plotlines that require the reader to tune in next month, which I will definitely do.
Story: 9.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9
Grifter #1 (DC) – Not knowing anything about this character before this issue, I’m not sure what the point is. I don’t particularly like him after reading this comic and nothing here made me interested in finding out more.
Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5
Legion Lost #1 (DC) – This comic does a good job of juggling a big cast without making them all clones and while getting across a story that is intriguing. I’m not completely sold on the comic or the concept, and I don’t like the cartoonish art much, but I’m at least coming back for the next few issues.
Story: 8.5 Art: 6 Overall: 7.5
Mr. Terrific #1 (DC) – I had high hopes for this book, having recently discovered the character and liking him quite a bit, but I felt this was a bit of a letdown. The art wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t great, despite some great sequences. The story also starts out solid before going off on a strange tangent at the end that didn’t seem to fit. Some of the things going on were a bit confusing, too. Hopefully future issues will perfect it. I’ll hang around to find out.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Red Lanterns #1 (DC) – This is my first time reading any of the extended Laterns material and I’m going to say that it grabbed me. The art is at times brilliant and the story maintained a good balance of exposition and action that I liked a lot. It had some ridiculous moments, most notably with a cat, but I can let that slide.
Story: 8 Art: 9 Overall: 8.5
Resurrection Man #1 (DC) – Not a great comic, this one was just good enough that I’ll check out #2, but I’m skeptical. The art was pretty weak in places and I just didn’t get enough from the story that’d hook me. The premise is one I like though, so I might hang around to see where it goes.
Story: 7.5 Art: 6.5 Overall: 7
Suicide Squad #1 (DC) – Reading this issue as a noob, I loved it. The villains and the scenario were great, the horror of it was engrossing, the characters were varied and I wanted to know more about them. It was both violent and funny and the ending was a nice little shocker. I’ve never heard of Amanda Waller before, though, and was unfamiliar with the character. It seems she used to be a much larger and more reserved woman and she’s been slimmed down and sexualized. That’s a shame because that one arbitrary panel brings down an otherwise excellent issue.
Story: 10 Art: 9 Overall: 9.5
Superboy #1 (DC) – Another comic I really like. This is very different than your usual Superman comics. You don’t really know who is good or bad or what they are capable and it’s very difficult to predict what is going to happen next. That’s all great and on top of that, you get some very good art.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
It’s a thick stack of books this week with DC still releasing their number one books. What’s worth it? What should be skipped? Find out below!
Alpha Flight #4 – The team is on the run from the government who has been taken over through an overly complex plan. There’s a lot I like about the series, but also so much that just seems blah. Overall it’s getting much better, but there’s definitely some things strange things that don’t jive. The brutality of one particular character just doesn’t fit in with the relative niceness of Alpha Flight.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #4 – It’s the second to last issue of this series that delves into the myths of the vampires. It adds a bit to the world and the story is really entertaining, but as usual you have to question why the bad guys just don’t kill the good guys right away. That’s about the only flaw I find, for what’s turned out to be a hell of a limited series.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Batman and Robin #1 – The good here is Damian’s depiction. The mysterious bad guy also has me intrigued. The bad is the story itself which just seems silly to me. Also, how old is Batman supposed to be in the DC revamp/reboot/relaunch? If Damian is still around, he obviously can’t be younger than he was in the previous world. I’m a bit confused about that part.
Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Batwoman #1 – A beautiful comic book, the art alone is enough to get me to come back for more. The story on the other hand is a bit week, but still intriguing enough to get me to overlook it. What is very strong, like the art is the characterization. The various characters in the comic are well written and there’s some great female leads. It’s been a long wait for this first issue, and while I can’t say it blew me away, I’ll definitely be back for the second issue.
Story: 7.75 Art: 9 Overall: 8
Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #523 – Out of all of the Fear Itself tie-ins this one is the best, though it’s competition isn’t that great. As a whole though, I really like the American Panther storyline. There was a solid ending to it, and a great mystery left at the end that seems like it’ll lead to something more interesting going forward. With the next issue, it’ll get a new subtitle, the series is quality and a definite recommendation to make a monthly read.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #4 – Wow, that was one hell of an ending. This is a crime story of the best caliber. Brubaker’s story telling seems to get better and better and this one’s ending is just amazing. Another fantastic volume in the best noir on the market. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9
Daken: Dark Wolverine #14 – What the hell did I read. The heat part is great as usual, but the art seems to have taken a dip and it won’t be until next issue that’ll I’ll truly understand what’s going on. This is one part of a bigger story and by itself the issue doesn’t make too much sense or keep my interest. Hopefully the next issue will do it some justice as the “set up” issue.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75
Daredevil #3 – Some great pulp fun as Daredevil fights Klaw and helps a man in court. The entertaining ending is a nice end cap for the first story arc and this issue sets up a bigger bad guy that’s only hinted at. The action is good and there’s some great writing in the issue. Mark Waid has returned Daredevil to his roots and it’s fantastic so far.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Deadpool #43 – Deadpool is on the loose as he’s escaped from the mental institution, though how he’s done that isn’t really explained very well. There’s also some other plot points that seem to have been dropped. The issue is entertaining enough, but falls into the campy end of things way too much.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Deathstroke #1 – Wow, that was a hell of a start. The issue feels more A-Team than anything else, but then that ending throws you for a spin. Pretty impressive as it gives you a good idea as to who Deathstroke is and does it all in a self-contained issue. Really solid beginning.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Demon Knights #1 – I appreciate what DC is doing here, taking some of their characters and throwing them into a world similar to one you’d find in a D&D campaign. The story is ok, but I’m not really one for straight up fantasy. My concern that it stars Etrigan and his speaking habit was not founded as that seems to have gone away, which is odd, since that was something that made the character very unique. It’s not a bad comic, but can’t say I really look forward to the second issue.
Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25
Fear Itself #6 – There’s lots of dramatic moments and some big speeches in the second to last issue of Marvel’s disappointing summer event. There’s some great moments and a lot of characters manning up, but overall this feels like that “big moment” that’s a few issues too late for me to really care or save this event from smelling like a stinker.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Fear Itself: Hulk vs. Dracula #1 – Not quite sure what the point of this limited series is as it doesn’t add a whole lot so far to the overall event. Also, isn’t the Hulk fighting in a few other places and against a few other heroes? Fear Itself has been a mess of an event, and this is another example of that.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75
Fear Itself: The Monkey King – A decent enough issue, but again, it doesn’t add anything to the Fear Itself storyline. I’d of much rather seen a three issue limited series come out of this than this one-shot that’s not really needed. But, even though it doesn’t add anything to Fear Itself, it’s still a good comic and hopefully we see more of this character than this one-shot.
Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8
Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #1 – A Hellboy wannabe I figured this was what to expect of the series after seeing it’s Flashpoint tie-in. It’s not the story is is bad, I think Hellboy is better in every sense, so there’s nothing new or interesting to keep me coming back for more.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Green Lantern #1 – Sinestro has a green ring again and Hal Jordan must go back to a normal life. Just when you think there isn’t anything more creative Geoff Johns can do with Green Lantern, this comes along. A great new start that’s fresh and interesting. The series has had some issues of late, but this first issue breathes new life into the series and again has me excited.
Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75
Grifter #1 – Huh!? Where’s the Grifter I came to know and love from Wildcats? What is this crap?!
Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75
John Carter: A Princess of Mars #1 – With Roger Langridge’s name on the comic I had to pick it up knowing nothing about this beloved story. Can’t say I’ll be coming back for the second issue. It’s not Langridge’s fault, the story just doesn’t interest me at all.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Legion Lost #1 – Hmm, a lot is interesting here, but the story is too much tied up in mystery and the action too choppy to get me to want to come back for more. I was never a Legion fan before, and can’t say this series has done anything to get me to change my mind.
Story: 6.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 6.75
Mister Terrific #1 – The beginning of the comic was interesting enough, but that ending made me not at all interested in the second issue. It was too abrupt and comes out of nowhere. There’s also the very blatant playing off that Mr. Terrific is a black hero and there’s event a rather stereotypical issue of his interest in a white woman. I’m sure the series will find it’s pace and feet after a bit, but I don’t think I’m sticking around for it.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
Mystery Men #5 – A ho-hum ending to the series that attempts to mix real life events with a comic book and doesn’t pull it off too well. The series was ok, and probably will read better as a trade paperback, but the finale isn’t anything special.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
The New Avengers #16 – We get to see what Daredevil was up to during Fear Itself and the issue is actually really solid. I like the interview aspect of the issues and the story in this one is really good too. It’s Daredevil’s acceptance into the crew and it’ll be interesting to see how that goes considering his recent past.
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5
Red Lanterns #1 – In short, this is DC’s version of Ghost Rider. It has potential, and I’ll stick around to see what that is, but the characters kind of started off as a one note gimmick and adding a bit to them will be a tough task. We’ll see how it all goes though, but so far it’s pretty decent.
Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75
Resurrection Man #1 – A lot I really liked here. I can’t say I know a lot about the character and this first issue gives you a hint about him. There’s enough here that will get me to come back. The issue though is it seems like I’ve seen this all before in a movie or television show. Heaven and hell after one man’s soul, it seems too familiar.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
Suicide Squad #1 – So much I like and at the same time it makes me miss Secret Six. There’s so many costume changes that are so unnecessary too. Still, there’s more than enough to get me to come back for the next few issues and see where it goes from here.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Superboy #1 – More than enough here to get me to come back for the second issue. The story is interesting and unique enough to stand out from Superman and there’s enough mystery here with numerous characters to keep me intrigued. This might be the first “Supes” comic I get into.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25
Supreme Power #4 – Just one piece of a bigger puzzle. By itself the actions of folks makes me scratch my head, but this seems to be the end of the middle chapter of a three act play. Interesting, but it doesn’t blow me away as much as that first issue did.
Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #1 – An origin story that’d normally have taken an issue to get through looks like it’ll be spread out a bit. But there’s a lot here that makes Mile Morales stand out from Peter Parker. Bendis has made some interesting choices here and it’ll be interesting to see where he goes. I’ve never been an Ultimate Comics fan, but this relaunch of the line has gotten me very interested.
Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8
Uncanny X-Force #15 – The team is trying their best to take on Archangel and his new horsemen before they transform the world. Deathlok has also lost his shit in the process. The trio of Deadpool, Fantomex and Deathlok is a team I want more of. So wrong yet so right.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.25
The Unwritten #29 – The story of Wilson the the Tinker grows deeper and that ending kind of came out of nowhere. The story is s bit easier to understand but no less interesting. This is one of those sleeper series more people should be reading. It challenges you in every way. Solid as usual.
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25
X-Men: Legacy #255 – Magneto attempts to bring a peace between the two warring armies while Rogue takes over command of a familiar bunch. The story is really just a way to get Havok, Polaris and Rachel back into the fold, the stroy I could do without.
Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7
The weekend is so close and reports are already coming that DC comic’s new releases are selling out. There’s a lot of other quality books out too, so make sure to get to your store and pick up some new releases.
Around the Blogs:
Kotaku – Aaaand Harley Quinn’s Saucy Arkham Mo-Cap was Actually Done by a Dude … – Ha.
Kotaku – The New Ultimate Spider-Man Debuts Just in Time for Edge of Time – The costume looks pretty damn cool. Look forward to seeing what this looks like on my high-def TV.
Con Coverage:
Spandexless – SPX Pulls: Dresden Codak Primer, Aaron Diaz
Spandexless – SPX Pulls: Box Brown Roundup
Comicsgirl – Small Press Expo 2011 reviews: The Ladies!
Around the Tubes Reviews:
CBR – American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #4
MTV Geek – Green Lantern #1
CBR – Green Lantern #1
MTV Geek – Mister Terrific #1
Comics Alliance – Ultimate Comics Spider-Man’ #1
MTV Geek – Ultimate Comics Spider-Man’ #1
MTV Geek – Image Comics Reviews: ‘Severed,’ ‘Li’l Depressed Boy,’ ’27,’ and ‘Pigs’
Newsarama – NEW 52 NEWBIE Reviews: Non-Comics Readers on the DCnU
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