Tag Archives: sheriff of babylon

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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all-star-batman-3Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

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

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

Alex

It was stupidly difficult to choose a top pick this week, between both Valiant books, All-Star Batman and Kill Or Be Killed. Any one of these books could have easily found themselves atop the list; the only reason behind the the top pick is because it was the last one I wrote…

Top Pick: Wrath Of The Eternal Warrior #12 (Valiant) – I heard a rumour that I haven’t verified yet that this series will be ending soon. That’s an incredible shame, because the past eleven issues have combined to form one of the best consecutive runs from any publisher over the past year. If this is the last, or second to last issue, then I’ll be sad to see this go. If not, then my favourite ongoing comic will continue and I’ll be happy.

All-Star Batman #3 (DC Comics) – This has been such a brilliant series so far (yes, I know we’re only two issues in), and getting to watch how Scott Snyder is treating two face is fantastic. I’ve never been happier to see Batman be this resourceful before. It’s a brilliant dose of the Dark Knight out of his element: the countryside in the day.

Britannia #2 (Valiant) – Valiant’s prestige style miniseries are often printed on a higher quality paper, which gives the pages a nice glossy feeling, which is in total juxtaposition to the story itself. Britannia is a bloody, no holds barred tale set in a violent time in Rome, and Britain’s, history. Peter Milligan and Juan Jose Ryp gave us a brilliant first issue, so I’m looking forward to the second quite a bit.

Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #6 (DC Comics) – Both Green Lantern titles have been excellent since Rebirth, but it’s this one that’s taken me by surprise most of all: normally stories set in space aren’t my forte, but for some reason I can’t get enough of this story.

Howard The Duck #11 (Marvel) – The final issue in the current run may (or may not) be bigger than a normal issue, and may (or may not) have a guest appearance from Spider-Man. It’ll be a shame to see this series go, but the ride was a fantastic one while it lasted. Here’s hoping it goes out with a bang.

Kill Or Be Killed #3 (Image Comics) – Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips reunite for this story about a man who must kill bad people, or his life will take a drastic turn for the worse. It’s a gripping story, and one that delves deeper than the typical superhero/vigilante fare. Highly recommended.

Honourable mentions: Action Comics #965, Old Man Logan #12, Red Hood and the Outlaws #3, and Revolution #3

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: All-Star Batman # 3 (DC Comics) – I have enjoyed this title far beyond what I thought I would. The mix of Grindhouse and Gotham story telling has me on the edge of my seat. I think JR JR is turning in some of his best work in a high octane environment. Scott Snyder has officially taking the top of the mountain as the all time greatest Batman scribe. No only is the main story a joy but the back up tale by Snyder and Shevley is a thrill as well. I’m loving the development of Duke Thomas. This title can do no wrong in my eyes.

The Clone Conspiracy # 1 (Marvel Comics) – Well though this subject matter could be an absolute disaster I have more than enough faith that Dan Slott can make this a must see comic. I’m loving the rebirth of The Jackal under this Annubis motif and he’s not coming across truly evil. (Well not yet) Spidey has been so fun the past couple years and I don’t expect the party to stop here.

 

Shay

Top Pick: The Lost Boys #1 (DC Comics) – The hunt for Star is on as her “sisters” the Blood Belles search for her and the Frog Brothers & the Emerson Brothers try and keep the blood suckers at bay. I like throwbacks and a good horror comic and , it can’t be any worse than those gawd awful sequels.

Black Monday Murders #1, #2 & #3 (Image Comics) – This week you can get all caught up with the series thanks to the reprinting. Who doens’t like a tale of dirty money, corporate badies & the rebels who try and keep them at bay?

Belladonna #1 (Boundless) – A woman leading a troop of Warrior women. Sounds like all the girl power and I want to dig right in!

Batgirl & The Birls of Prey #3 (DC Comics) – The new Oracle is a superior bad ass and Gothams normal badies aren’t up to the task of running defense. in this next installment of the “Who is Oracle” the ladies face off against some of the most dangerous villains yet.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Sheriff of Babylon #11 (Vertigo) – Seriously, this is one of, if not THE, best comic on the market right now. It’s absolutely gripping and there’s one more issue to go in this story arc. We’re about to figure out all of the dirt in what is a murder mystery full of terrorists, crooked US operatives, and taking place in the Iraqi Green Zone.

Mosaic #1 (Marvel) – I’m intrigued, not going to lie. I want to see what Marvel does with this new character and to see how it all plays out.

Solarman #2 (Scout Comics) – The first issue was solid and I can’t wait to sit down and read the second. The classic character has been updated for modern times and it’s something that’s needed more of in comics.

Warhammer 40,000: Will of Iron #1 (Titan Comics) – I’ve been a Games Workshop and 40K fan for over 20 years at this point. So, a new comic having me excited is not a shock.

Warlords of Appalachia #1 (BOOM! Studios) – I’ve read the first issue and it’s solid with a solid premise, great art, and enough of a hook that I want to see what happens next. I think what impressed me most was that the first issue is a well thought out world with tons of small details including actual music you can play.

 

Anthony

Top Pick: Monstress #7 (Image Comics) – Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda’s Monstress is a stunningly gorgeous series, rich in both art (with an aesthetic that combines traditional Japanese woodblock prints and a art-deco style) and the world being created. This new arc follows a violent clash with Maika’s captors as she and her companions Kippa and Master Ren, continue their journey to discover the true nature of the discovery that Maika’s mother made in the distant past.

The Fix #6 (Image Comics) – Roy and Mac are just two awful individuals living in a world surrounded by debauchery, lies and mindless violence. There is something about The Fix that makes it one of the best titles out there, combining this anti-hero dynamic with buckets of laughter each and every issue. With every new push in the story and characters introduced, it feels like the creative team still has plenty of potential ideas to work with, which is definitely a very, very good thing.

The Fade Out Deluxe Hardcover (Image Comics) – Collected here in one large tome is the excellent, Golden Age of Hollywood, alcohol infused, Eisner award winning noir series from the same team of Kill or Be Killed, Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips and Elizabeth Breitweiser. If you missed the series, this looks to be the best bet collection wise as it contains all the back matter from the single issues and a ton of extra material.

Glitterbomb #2 (Image Comics) – Speaking of Hollywood, the first issue of Glitterbomb introduced us to Farrah and the harsh reality she faces trying to make a living as an actress in the sleazy, male-ego driven world. Jim Zub’s scripts are consistently packed with surprises, introducing a supernatural twist to Farrah. Djibirl Morisette-Phan and K. Michael Russell bring the scripts to life through some confident line work and dreamy use of colours, enhancing the emotion and dread especially when there aren’t any words on the page.

Kill or Be Killed #3 (Image Comics) – Dylan has just killed the first person he has deemed justifiable in the act. Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips and Elizabeth Breitweiser have been crafting a fantastic tale, challenging the notions of morality, how our past shapes who we are and whether we can truly change as time passes by.

Review: The Sheriff of Babylon #8

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The Sheriff of Babylon #8 CoverChris and Sofia are in the wrong place at the wrong time when a bomb goes off, threatening to add two more corpses to the body count that’s been growing on their own mission to get back at the murderers who started them on this path to begin with.

The Sheriff of Babylon #8 is about so much more than what’s listed above. Nassir. Sofia. What’s the real connection that brings these two together? What’s their history? What demons does Nassir have in his closet? All of that is explored here as Nassir is interrogated and brought into the mission at hand, the capture of the terrorist Abu Rahim. But, is everyone on board with that mission?

Writer Tom King has woven a tale that’s so much more than its parts. The comic is one part murder mystery and one part look into the war in Iraq and particularly the Green Zone.

It’s that last part which is really on display here by King. Much of the comic is that history of Nassir and his connection to Sofia and in just a few panels King pulls us out of that and reminds us that this is all taking place in the middle of a war zone where danger is all around.

King’s writing is enhanced by Mitch Gerads. The details Gerads puts in every panel is amazing. It can be subtle, but it adds so much to the overall story. It’s absolutely amazing and a masterclass in storytelling.

A perfect example of this is towards the end of the comic which features the use of a Superman sheet that features comic book panels. For many, the use of this sheet might be overlooked, but its coloring makes it stand out, almost screaming at the reader to be noticed. It’s small details like this that adds so much to the story. Here, a symbol of American ideals, freedom, justice, AMERICAN way, can’t be ignored and underlies a theme that’s been threaded throughout a lot of the series. A perfect example of imagery that enhances the dialogue.

The Sheriff of Babylon #8 is another issue of this absolutely amazing series, one of the best of the year and the best comic Vertigo has released in quite some time. This is the perfect combination of story and art which come together to tell a story that’s as entertaining as it makes you think.

Story: Tom King Art: Mitch Gerads
Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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PaperGirls07_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

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

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

Alex

Top Pick: 4001 A.D.: Shadowman #1 (Valiant Entertainment) – 4001 A.D. has been a pretty great event so far, and while it isn’t the best miniseries Valiant are putting out right now (Divinity holds that title), it’s still better than most other . As with the Bloodshot tie-in comic, this one looks like it can be read independently of the main series; so if you’re not reading the main series, you can sill pick this up no problem.

Batman #2 (DC Comics) – I really enjoyed the first issue – much more than I expected I would – and so naturally I’m looking forward to this. Tom King’s take on Batman  has been solid, but at only an issue in it’s probably too early to pass fair judgement on that, eh? Plus, there’s David Finch on pencils, and as I’m a big fan of his work, it’s hard not to jump on this book.

Moon Knight #4 (Marvel) – Honestly, this series hasn’t been as good as the 2014 series, but we’re also only four issues in. I’ll give it a couple more before I do cancel it, because it feels like there is potential here for a great story… but we haven’t really seen that yet. That said, the artists’ are probably the best part of this book.

Vote Loki #2 (Marvel) – The first issue was brilliant fun. Is it particularly faithful to the Presidential election process? I honestly don’t know, but I absolutely loved it nonetheless. It’s a fun comic that doesn’t take itself too seriously at all, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

 

Anthony

Top Pick: Roche Limit Monadic #4 (Image Comics) – Roche Limi has been a great, cerebral, neo-noir, sci-fi ride right from the beginning. This is the final chapter of the trilogy that will feature the philosophical, thoughtful words of Michael Moreci, Kyle Charles’s expressive, flowing illustrations, and Matt Battaglia’s moody colours.

The Fix #4 (Image Comics) – Last issue ended with a literal bang that could potentially swing this series into an even darker direction. Nick Spencer, Steve Lieber and Ryan Hill have been crafting quite the hilarious and poignant series so far. It will be interesting to see what arises before this series takes a little break and check in on Mac (and Pretzels?!) since last issue focused more on Donovan.

Paper Girls #7 (Image Comics) – Brian K. Vaughan, Cliff Chiang and Matt Wilson continue to present an inventive, fun and entertaining ride and are introducing a whole new set of unexpected directions after the last issue. With its colourful aesthetic, imaginative images and grounded characters, this has been a monthly treat.

Tokyo Ghost #8 (Image Comics) – Rick Remender is one of the most exciting creators out there right now whose Image titles are all stellar in their own right. Working alongside the incredibly detailed line work of Sean Gordon Murphy and one of the best colourists in Matt Hollingsworth make Tokyo Ghost one of those titles that is firing on all its creative cylinders. This is also one of the most relevant titles on the stands poking at the multiple distracting vices that surround us, even though this is a futuristic setting. Now that the character of the Tokyo Ghost has been revealed, it appears that Constable Dent will have his hands full.

Moon Knight #4 (Marvel) – The best Marvel titles are the ones not directly under the sway of events and Moon Knight stands tall amongst the bunch. Jeff Lemire, Greg Smallwood and Jordie Bellaire continue the push/pull of whether Marc Spector is insane in the membrane but either way, this continues to be one of the more entertaining and visually spectacular series Marvel is releasing.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Batman #2 (DC Comics) – King and Finch had such a great and unique opening installment, so naturally I am back. Like Snyder did on his run, King seems to be focused on putting the Man back in the Bat. We had a whopper of a cliffhanger last time and I am so curious to see what Gotham and Gotham Girl (Sounds like she should be on the CW) are up to. Are they run of the mill Superpowers? Or something more. Really enjoyed Finch’s pencil’s last time too. Well rounded issue that I’m looking forward to seeing more.

The Amazing Spider-Man # 15 (Marvel Comics) – While I hate the whole Regent character. I thought we were done with him back in Amazing Spider-Man: Renew your Vows, this issue looks to have MJ all front and center. Anytime a writer uses her right is a treat for me. Let’s hope that’s what Slott has on his mind here.

Green Lanterns # 2 (DC Comics) – Buddy cop drama with other worldly ramifications? Yup. I’m on board. Plus I am digging this Red Dawn plot line. Eager to see where it goes.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Sheriff of Babylon #8 (Vertigo) – Easily one of the best comics on the market right now. This murder mystery set in the Green Zone in Iraq is a fascinating behind the curtain look at life in the war zone in 2014 and each issue is a master class in character study and how to use imagery to enhance the spoken word.

Civil War II: Kingpin #1 (Marvel) – What’s the Kingpin been up to? We find this out with this Civil War II tie-in, my most anticipated one. The talented Matthew Rosenberg is at the helm which has me really excited to see what Marvel’s king of crime is up to.

The Flintstones #1 (DC Comics) – The recent reworking of Hanna-Barbera characters has been interesting, and this latest one tackles the classic cartoon characters. I’m not sure at all what to expect but Mark Russell has delivered hilarity in Prez, God is Dissapointed in You, and Apocrypha Now. I expect no less from this.

Kim and Kim #1 (Black Mask Studios) – Kim & Kim are twentysomething besties out to make a name for themselves in the wild world of interdimensional cowboy law enforcement. That’s the description and it sounds awesome. The artwork looks fantastic too.

Solarman #1 (Scout Comics) – Joseph Illidge, Brendan Deneen, and N. Steven Harris bring back the classic character and gives him a modern facelift. I’ve read the first issue and it’s a must get.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Civil War II X-Men #2 (Marvel) – Magneto is ready to go to war against Inhuman and mutant alike to ensure the future seeing Inhuman, Ulysses, doesn’t jeopardize the future for mutants.  This is typical Magneto, doing what he thinks is right to ensure the survival of mutants; nothing really ground breaking, but I did enjoy the first issue and it’s always fun seeing Magneto take matters into his own hands.

Batman #2 (DC Comics) – Not being an avid DC reader, I really enjoyed the start of this Rebirth title.  I’m curious to learn more about this new Gotham hero and to see how Batman reacts to him; because Batman always plays well with others.

Green Arrow #2 (DC Comics) – Yup, another DC title on my list.  The first issues were fun, and I’m really enjoying seeing Ollie and Dinah together again.  This new iteration of Dinah is going to take some getting used to though (rock singer chick).  And the ending from issue #1!  Damn, gotta see what happens with that.

Justice League: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – Yup, this is the third DC title on my list (Marvel is having a quiet week) and I’m a sucker for a team book.  Going in not knowing anything about these characters post New 52 but I am intrigued by the synopsis; a ‘new’ Superman that Batman and Wonder Woman are suspicious of?  Interesting.  And a couple new Green Lanterns I see.  Well, here’s hoping!

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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The Fix #3Wednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

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

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

Anthony

Top Pick: Island #8 (Image Comics) – Island has been a great ride from the beginning featuring a very wide, eclectic array of comic creators in this anthology series. Each issue has some stories that continue in segments with some one shot shorts as well that are brilliantly organized and curated by creators Brandon Graham and Emma Rios. Island has yet to disappoint with content that can be eye-popping visually, psychologically provoking, and socially relevant. This issue features stories from Johnnie Christmas and Simon Roy.

Empress #3 (Icon/Marvel) – Mark Millar, hate him or love him, has always released some titles with a refreshing perspective and some gorgeous artwork in this sci-fi based story of a man that has taken on the task of helping a wife and her three children escape from an overzealous husband/leader. This time around, Stuart Immonen has been killing it on pencils with some added detailing on inks by Wade von Grawbadger and expressive colouring by Ive Svorcina. The second issue really kicked up the action a notch and ended with quite the cliffhanger. It will be exciting to see what kind of adventures the group gets into this time around and will hopefully have some calming periods to get to know a bit more on the characters as well.

The Fix #3 (Image Comics) – The Fix is one of the funniest comics put out in 2016 that should be no surprise to fans of the creative team of Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber. Adding colourist Ryan Hill to the mix has really created this neo-noir vibe with a dash of anti-hero douchebaggery and a tinge of unexpected splashes of violence. This series has sold out of both the first two issues (with this week releasing the third printing of Issue #1) so it has proven itself to be a pleaser thus far that is sure to continue its hilarity and ridiculousness. Corrupt cops Ray and Mac have found themselves in quite the junction of scenarios so one can only imagine what will happen now that a police dog named Pretzels has been thrown in the mix.

The Wicked + The Divine #20 (Image Comics) – The Gods have been consistently fighting against one another over the last few issues ever since Laura has come back and it appears as if the buildup will keep getting higher and higher. Deaths are abound for sure. Wic Div has one of the most impressive creative teams for Image that keeps the readers guessing as to what exactly is going to happen next. As long as Kieron Gillen, Jamie McKelvie and Matt Wilson grace the cover and interiors (with the occasional striking guests) Wic Div should be on your monthly pull list.

Wolf #8 (Image Comics) – Ales Kot is one of the most intriguing, complex, labyrinthian writers working in comics today. Wolf has been a bit of an up and down ride but the last issue really put the train back onto the tracks. The artwork by Ricardo Lopez Ortiz and colours by Lee Loughridge‘s give this title a real punk edge to it and will hopefully push the limits after the ending to Issue #7.

 

Alex

Top Pick: Voracious #4 (Action Lab: Danger Zone) – Man discovers he can travel through time. Instead of using it to become rich with gambling, he decides to become a dinosaur hunter and open a restaurant. This is why I love comics; because this actually works.

4001 A.D.: Bloodshot #1 (Valiant) – 4001 A.D. has been a brilliant event so far, but the stand alone tie ins from Valiant can always be hit or miss depending on how big a fan of the specific character you are. I’m a middling fan of Bloodshot, so this should be interesting.

Howard the Duck #8 (Marvel) – One of the more fun series that Marvel is putting out these days (at least that I’m reading), this is usually a snark filled comic that usually one of the best I read in the week it’s released.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: The Flash: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – Yes, yes, yes the real West is back! I have been so pumped and still coming off the high that was the Rebirth special. My conduit to comics is back in full force. I don’t care where this goes. I just want to be in the fast lane for it!

Action Comics #957 (DC Comics) – Like Wally returning so has the real Kal-El. I am thrilled for this and who says you can’t have family in comics? I am intrigued on where Lex will fit, will they try to keep him a true Man of Steel or is he plotting the one true Superman’s downfall.

Detective Comics #934 (DC Comics) – The road to the mega epic #1000 starts here! Truth be told I’m not on fire about this title but it has enough solicited elements to pique my interest. A new Bat-Team could be what Gotham ordered. However with a title like Detective Comics I’d rather see Ralph Dibney on the billing, but hey time will tell…

 

Brett

Top Pick: Sheriff of Babylon #7 (Vertigo) – One of the best comics on the market right now. Absolutely amazing storytelling that’s a murder mystery set in modern Iraq. There’s actually not as much politics as you’d think, just fantastic pacing and subtle details that add to the complete package.

Green Lantern: Edge of Oblivion #6 (DC Comics) – This miniseries wraps up and I can’t wait to see how it ends, especially since its been a veiled allegory about modern day terrorism and religious extremism. Plus… who gets back to modern times and how!?

Lumberjanes/Gotham Academy #1 (BOOM! Box/DC Comics) – The first issue is a cute combination of the two series as the groups come together to solve a mystery. There’s a weird “Scooby Doo” vibe about it all, but the first issue works really well and this should be a fun miniseries.

Prometheus: Life and Death #1 (Dark Horse) – I’m a fan of Dark Horse’s new Alien/Predator/Prometheus universe and their intertwining miniseries have been fantastic. This one has been an interesting build so far and with this first issue, we finally get the beginning of the last piece of the puzzle.

Star Wars: Poe Dameron #3 (Marvel) – If you enjoyed Star Wars: The Force Awakens and want to get even more of the story about Poe, this is the comic for you. It peals back the curtain a bit on this newer aspect of the Star Wars universe, and answers some questions left dangling by the film.

 

Paul

Top Pick: All-New X-Men #10 (Marvel) – I’ve been enjoying this Apocalypse War storyline running through the X books, and I am looking forward to seeing Evan, now in the past, coming face to face with En Sabah Nur, who will one day become Apocalypse.  Can Evan change the past, and stop Apocalypse from ever being?  Will this take Evan down the path to becoming the next Apocalypse? Can I possibly use the word Apocalypse anymore in this blurb? I am looking forward to seeing where this leads.

The Vision #8 (Marvel) – Uh oh…the Avengers know everything that has happened with Vision and his family; the violence, the deaths and the lies.  And now they’re coming to find some answers.  I don’t see this going very well, but as with every issue in this series, I’m sure it’s going to be a hell of a read.

Wacky Raceland #1 (DC Comics) – Do you remember the Wacky Racers from Saturday morning cartoons?  I do too…and this is not them!  The world has gone to hell and racers trek across the remains of their word for survival.  It’s Death Race meets Hannah-Barbera and I for one will be strapping in for this crazy ride.  Just check out Muttly on the cover!  This is NOT the cartoon I remember.

Around the Tubes

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GiantDays_014_A_MainIt’s new comic book day tomorrow! We’ll have our picks in a few hours, but what are you all excited for? Sound off in the comments!

While you decide on that, here’s some comic news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

Around the Tubes

CBR – The Mission: “Captain America: Civil War’s” Mother Lode & Bonds Beyond Race – As always Joe is one you want to read.

Kotaku – There’s a Giant Deadpool Statue in Japan – *Insert huge in Japan joke here*

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

CBR – Beasts of Burden: What the Cat Dragged In #1

CBR – Giant Days #14

CBR – Sheriff of Babylon #6

CBR – Star Wars: Poe Dameron #2

The Beat – Why Would You Do That?

CBR – The Wicked + The Divine #19

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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The_Punisher_1_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

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

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

Alex

Top Pick: 4001 AD #1 (Valiant) – it’s not often that I get excited for Event Series anymore, but this one has me just giddy. Valiant had my favourite event last year with Book of Death, and so I can’t wait to get my hands on the first issue of their 2016 event series.  It’s going to be amazing (I hope).

Detective Comics #52 (DC Comics) – More Jim Gordon as Batman? It’d be rude to say no!

Old Man Logan #5 (Marvel Comics) – Yeah I know it came out last week but I forgot to pick it up, and seeing as how I’m only getting to the shop on Friday … Why not?

 

Patrick

Top Pick: Punisher #1 (Marvel Comics) – Steve Dillon is one of the reason why Punisher isn’t a forgotten relic of the 80’s and 90’s. Nothing has compared to the work Garth Ennis and Dillon did with the character, but pairing Dillon with Becky Cloonan is a promising way to bring Punisher into a new golden era.

Sheriff of Babylon #6 (Vertigo) – Last issue’s demonstration that the book is about the human experience in otherwise nightmarish circumstances show that no matter what happens, this is a thought-provoking title.

The Bunker #17 (Oni Press) – Any single panel from Bunker could be framed and hung in a gallery. Though dark, and certainly no one has ever pitched this book as “fun”, it’s textures and color schemes make for an exciting experience.

Klaus #5 (BOOM! Studios) – Why did I let it surprise me that Grant Morrison would be bring such originality to a tired concept like Santa? Why did I think I’d lose interest after December? I am continually excited about this book.

Weavers #1 (BOOM! Studios) – Creepy and imaginative, this new Simon Spurrier title is exactly where you want to go if you want both fresh and visually intriguing.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Punisher #1 (Marvel Comics) – New team, new era. They promise us they are going to take Frank Castle where he’s never gone before. I am very excited for this book and can’t wait to see what the new scribe and veteran artist have in their armory for us. Parental advisory be damned, this one’s going to be big time!

 

Brett

Top Pick: Rough Riders #2 (Aftershock) –  I loved this series’ first issue. It was an awesome blending of alternate history, action, and actual history! I can’t wait to see what’s next. It’s one of the few comics that had me doing research after I read it!

4001 A.D. #1 (Valiant) – Valiant’s next big event and the first issue is a great jumping on point for new readers.

The Punisher #1 (Marvel Comics) – Becky Cloonan and Steve Dillon, nuff said.

Super Human Resources Season 1 (Action Lab Entertainment) – The concept of someone working in a super hero HR department sounds too funny. I can’t wait to read this one, the concept sounds amazing and original to me.

Thunderbolts #1 (Marvel Comics) – Jim Zub writing a group of misfit heroes? Sign me up.

Review: The Sheriff of Babylon #5

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The Sheriff of Babylon #5Now that Chris and Nassir have stuck their noses where some people wish they hadn’t, everyone seeks shelter behind the gates of the American stronghold within the Baghdad Green Zone. When both Chris and Nassir’s wife Fatima are unable to sleep, they have an unlikely meeting of the minds and share their experiences from the War on Terror. By morning, Chris will see the Iraqi woman in a whole new light.

You know that scene in war movies where the soldiers reflect on life and their own lives under the moonlit sky just before a battle commences, one which there’ll be some casualties? That’s The Sheriff of Babylon #5, as Chris and Fatima grab a bottle in Vodka, sit down, and reflect on how they got to this moment. And it’s so good. Luckily we’ll be getting more of it as the miniseries has been expanded to 12 issues.

This issue does a lot, especially for Chris, as we start to get a better idea as to why he enlisted and what his worldview is. His history as a cop is examined and while the 9/11 connection might feel like it’s a stretch, it’s still believable the impact it’d have on him, with his guilt guiding him in his new career decision. That all might seem vague, but I don’t want to ruin it. It also again adds layers to the series title, especially the “sheriff” part, much like last issue.

The brutal honesty writer Tom King gives Fatima is impressive. He creates a deep, complex, realized character who is a personification of the muddy mess that is foreign policy. She reflects on her thoughts on Saddam, the embargo against the Iraqi people, and 9/11, all of which makes sense in a worldview that’s guided by personal experiences. Her biggest focus is so simple and a product so many of us take advantage of and don’t think about. When she mentions it, it creates a weird connection where we can better connect with at least some of the hardship she’s gone through, it’s an attempt to create that connection.

Both characters are a result of their experiences, like we all are, and this issue emphasizes how it can be the little things that have some of the greatest impact.

The art by Mitch Gerads as always is impressive, and here without exciting moments (it’s seriously 9 page panels of two people drinking and talking), it’s the small details he adds that makes a difference from a possibly boring scene full of speeches, to an interesting back and forth where every movement and position is examined. But, it’s not just that positioning and movement that’s impressive, it’s also the moments not involving Chris and Fatima that are so telling, a story and commentary expressed only with images. An example are the closing panels featuring an artifact of the past and a cat.

The Sheriff of Babylon again and again impresses with its layered storytelling that challenges the reader to not just read between the lines and deeper meanings, but also think about history (both modern and of the distant past) and how that history has impacted our own views. It’s an excellent discussion of modern and world events and the current situation in Iraq, and a discussion whose politics are muddied and not so clear. This is a prime example of how comics are more than just spandex and superpowers and instead can be used to explore and discuss our modern times and the geopolitical world.

Story: Tom King Art: Mitch Gerads
Story: 8.6 Art: 8.6 Overall: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Vertigo provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Black_Panther_1_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

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

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

Alex

Top Pick: Old Man Logan #4 (Marvel) – I’m more excited by this comic than any other this week because I’ve been diving through my long boxes looking for another comic to reread for Graphic Policy’s “From The Vault” feature. I’m pretty sure I know which one it’ll be, and with it being an older Wolverine comic it got me stupidly excited for the current ongoing series featuring the old clawed Canadian.

Detective Comics #51 (DC Comics) – We all saw Bruce Wayne come back in Batman #50, but after such a brilliant Jim Gordon Batman tale the last three issues, it’d be a shame to move on from Gordon as he finds his feet. I’m chuffed that we get at least one more Gordon as Batman story before Rebirth hits the DC Universe.

Johnny Red #6 (Titan Comics) – Just look at that cover. It’s wonderful. And with the last issue ending with Johnny stumbling across a certain Nazi leader, Wednesday can’t come soon enough…

Ninjak #14 (Valiant) – One of Valiant’s best series (to be honest I could actually say that about most of Valiant’s comics) stumbled a little last issue, but with a new arc kicking off in #14 I’m hoping the series takes off running again.

 

Javier

Top Pick: Sheriff of Babylon #5 (Vertigo Comics) – Tom King’s police procedural set in postwar Bagdhad’s Green Zone is captivating.

Black Panther #1 (Marvel) – It’s written by a bonafide Genius. Enuf said!

Black Widow #2 (Marvel) – After reading the first issue, all I can say is WOW. It’s been a long time since I seen anything like that come out of Marvel. Pure superhero action. Let’s see if it carry overs into the next few issues.

Old Man Logan #4 (Marvel) – I know two old men going at it is far from sexy, but they are kicking ass and taking names! Old Man Logan versus Aged Steve Rogers.

Unfollow #6  (Vertigo Comics) – Rob Williams dark satire on social media is a must read.  The Deacon character get’s special treatment in this issue and bonus: R.M. Guera returns to Vertigo as the guest-artist in this issue.

 

Brett

The Fix #1 (Image Comics) – I’ve read the first issue and it blew me away with the pacing, the humor, everything about it. From Nick Spencer and Steve Lieber this comic is as fantastic as all of their other collaborations. To tell you more about it would ruin it, but if you’re a fan of Superior Foes of Spider-Man, you’ll love this comic.

Black Panther #1 (Marvel) – One of my most anticipated comics for the first half of this year. The combo of Ta-Nehisi Coates as the writer and Brian Stelfreeze as the artist has me excited to see what they can do with this classic character.

Black Widow #2 (Marvel) – The first issue was damn near perfect. It launched with an exciting action sequence that was little on words and lots on excitement. Mark Waid and Chris Samnee absolutely got my attention with their take on the character, no lets see what they can do with her.

Interceptor #4 (Heavy Metal) – A cool sci-fi series involving vampires and roaming motorcycle gangs. It’s just a fun read.

Rough Riders #1 (Aftershock Comics) – This new series from Aftershock mixes Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Houdini, Jack Johnson, Annie Oakley into a kick ass team. I’m beyond intrigued.

 

Mr. H

Top Pick: Harley Quinn April Fools Day Special #1 (DC Comics) – This looks absolutely fun and great! Harley starting a support group for Super villains. Such possibilities for super powered hijinx! Count me in, I have problems too! Plus art by Jim Lee!!

Earth One: Wonder Woman (DC Comics) – The mad Scotsman Grant Morrison taking on Diana and her origin. Sexuality and the Purple Ray. Safe to say this will have estrogen power abound! I’m very excited for this one and to see the Steve Trevor and Amazon updates. Hopefully still an Invisible Plane around. Gotta get this one!

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

Posted on by

Black_Widow_1_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

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

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

Alex

Top Pick: Old Man Logan #3 (Marvel) – I love this series. It’s one of the very very few bi-monthly comics I buy (read the only one), and even waiting two weeks between issues (and longer from #2 to #3) is killing me. This series reminds me why I love Wolverine – sorry, Old Man Logan.

Johnny Red #5 (Titan Comics) – There’s something about Johnny Red that I can’t get enough of. This is, easily, the best comic not featuring spandex on the racks right now; a WW2 era story featuring a British fighter pilot flying for the Russians that has some stunning airborne dogfights. Just wonderful.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Black Widow #1 (Marvel) – Chris Samnee and Mark Waid is a creative team that always gets me to take notice. The fact they’re now taking on Black Widow after breathing life in to other characters has me really intrigued and looking forward to reading this.

Dreaming Eagles #3 (Aftershock Comics) – Garth Ennis has mastered the military historical comic and has two out this week. Alex picked one, this is the other one. Get them both. The difference? Ennis mixes in race relations in to this one. Solid read.

Old Man Logan #3 (Marvel) – The best comic Marvel is producing right now. A great translation of the western revenge story in comic form.

Sheriff of Babylon #4 (Vertigo) – So who is the “sheriff”? This comic adds a hell of a layer to that aspect of the comic showing off the layered nuance and intelligence of it. An absolutely amazing comic that’s a must read for individuals interested in comics that reflect real world modern events.

Tomboy #4 (Action Lab: Danger Zone) – This series is blowing me away, an indie comic that too few people are reading. A young girl is a vigilante taking on the men that killed her best friend and crooked cops. Brutally violent and a gripping read.

Review: The Sheriff of Babylon #3

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The Sheriff of Babylon #3BANG. From investigation to assassination, the dangerous world residing in the pages of The Sheriff of Babylon strikes out at its main characters this issue.

Following the murder of one of his training officers in post-invasion Iraq, Christopher seeks to find out who’s responsible. Quickly realizing there is no authority in place to deal with this kind of investigation, he seeks the help of Nassir and Sofia to compensate for the fact that he’s an L.A. cop trying to solve a murder in Baghdad. After Nassir and he discover the victim’s family butchered, it seems that the trail has run cold.

This features some blowback from the investigation as our focal characters find themselves being targeted. While Nassir and Sofia find themselves in greatest bit of trouble, Christopher remains virtually unscathed. Perhaps it could be said no one wants to strike out at an American. It’s also very interesting to consider of the three, Christopher is the most straightforward and honest. He may be the most clearly virtuous of the characters while the others find themselves more endangered in a “live by the sword, die by the sword” philosophy. Christopher stands out not only from the other main characters but from most other gritty-crime stories that choose a flawed, anti-hero to focus on. It makes him likeable and fresh as he presses to solve a murder no one else seems to care about.

However, we’re quickly seeing what’s at the root of this story is how your community reaches out and pulls you down when they feel you have betrayed them. Sofia and Nassir are considered turncoats, people who have worked against the best interests of their respective people, and now their lives are in danger because of it. Perhaps what Sheriff of Babylon really is promoting is loyalty.

This is issue is more Tom Clancy than Dick Wolf, the art more like the storyboard for a tense political thriller than a dry “whodunit”. Of all the fantastic books writer Tom King has on the stands right now, this is by the far the best. Not only standing above his own work, but towering above anything else being published at the moment. Mitch Gerads’s course realism creates the perfect witness to danger and tension within this world. From his angles to his close-ups, he shows himself to be as much a cinematographer as a comic book artist from issue to issue.

Story: Tom King Art: Mitch Gerads
Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy

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