Tag Archives: the goddamned

The Goddamned: Virgin Brides #1 Gets a New Printing

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Writer Jason Aaron and artist r.m.Guéra reignited the stark and brutal world of The Goddamned with the highly anticipated Virgin Brides #1—now being rushed back to print in order to keep up with demand. 

The Goddamned: Virgin Brides #1 begins the long-awaited second chapter of their biblical-noir epic and is the perfect jumping on point for readers new to The Goddamned series. 

In the time before the Great Flood, the world of man is a place of wanton violence and unbridled depravity. But hidden high atop a mountain, there is a very different sort of world. One without men. Here, in The Goddamned: Virgin Brides, the holy sisters at a secret nunnery live in paradise, a new Eden, rearing their flock of orphaned girls to embrace their future as blessed Brides of the Sons of God. But when Sharri and Jael, two girls on the cusp of flowering, uncover what it truly means to become a Bride, they realize there’s only one way to escape the bonds of matrimony: run like hell.

The Goddamned: Virgin Brides #1, second printing (Diamond Code JUN208564) will be available at comic book shops on Wednesday, August 19. 

The Goddamned: Virgin Brides #1

Review: The Goddamned #4

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thegoddamned_04-1“Woe to them! For they have gone the way of Cain.” Genesis 4:11 

The Goddamned takes place in the time before Noah needed to build his Ark; a time just before God had decided that mankind had screwed up so much that He needed to start over, so He hit the reset button and washed the scum from the face of the earth.

How bad was mankind before the Flood?

Pretty awful, actually, if Jason Aaron’s take is to be believed. This series, which the Nerdist so aptly describes as “the story of the book of Genesis told through a Grindhouse lens,”  is a brutal delight to read. Aaron doesn’t shy away from the brutal side of humanity, and the overall feeling of despair here is almost over powering. And yet despite the brutality and despair, something about the comic that just draws you in.

There’s a stunningly visceral feel to the art that rarely shies away from depicting the harsh reality that the characters face with a scrappy delicately brutal style that although it hasn’t changed at all, did need time to gestate and grow upon my sensibilities. Now I’m a huge fan, but at first? Not so much. I couldn’t imagine any artist and colourist but r.m. Guera and  Guilia Brusco on the book; their work reminds me of the British weekly 2000 AD  in all the right ways, and the sometimes rough edges to the artwork do more to compliment the story than they do to take away from it.

The Goddamned #4 may not have a feel-good tale at it’s core, but it sure does have story that’s worth reading. The Goddamned is anything but a happy comic, and it probably isn’t for everybody (especially young readers), but for those who decide to pick it up, you’re not going to be disappointed.

Story: Jason Aaron Art: r.m. Guera Colourist: Guilia Brusco
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Read

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review.

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Civil_War_II_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.

Paul

Top Pick: Civil War II #1 (Marvel) – Here it is!  The start of the next event that is going to split the hero community in half…again.  You would think they would have learned after the first throw down.  This time though, it isn’t registration that is looking to control the heroes and their actions; now we have an Inhuman who can see into the future…and there are those who think this can be used to prevent disastrous events.  Is the future written in stone?  Can you hold someone responsible for something they may do?  That’s what the Marvel Universe will be exploring and you can bet it’s going to get ugly.

A-Force #6 (Marvel) – It’s A-Force vs. Nico (under the control of the Countess).  Medusa has been skeptical about Nico’s powers from the start of this team…it’s going to be very interesting for her to find out first hand just what Sister Grimm can do.  I just hope A-Force survive the ordeal.  I’ve been a fan of this book since the start, and I am always excited when a new issue comes out.  It’s a great read with laughs, sass and action; who can ask for anything more?

Green Arrow: Rebirth #1 (DC) – Yeah yeah, here’s a DC title on my list.  I’ll be honest, I’m interested in this to see Black Canary and Green Arrow together again.  Yes, I know that is just the gimmick (as mentioned in previous articles) DC is using to get readers into this Rebirth.  Me, not being a regular to the DC universe, think this is a great time to jump in and see if it’s enough to make me consider making room for DC AND Marvel in my life.

Old Man Logan #7 (Marvel) – Logan is just looking to lay low and figure out his place in this new world he’s found himself in.  Too bad Lady Deathstrike and her Reavers have other plans.  I am really looking forward to seeing this showdown; this isn’t the Logan that Deathstrike is expecting to find…she may just get more then she bargained for.

 

Javier

Top Pick: Batman: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – It’s our first look with Tom King who is taking over writing duties from Scott Snyder.

Deadly Class #21 (Image Comics) – Summer finally is here, as freshmen finals end; but another freshman fails to make it to sophomore year.  Rick Remender’s depressive, but action filled, take on prep school assassination madness,continues to entertain.

The Goddamned #4 (Image Comics) – Another biblical inspired story. It focuses on a seemingly immortal and wandering Cain, after the fall; set in the period of the mythical Nephilim prior to the flood. Jason Aaron weaves yet another must-read grim proto-human story.

Saints #9 (Image Comics) – Another excellent maxi-series reaches its conclusion. The holy war (or unholy, depending on your opinion) ends, when the young and hipster Saints crew come face to face with the Archangel Michael and God.

Unfollow #8 (DC Vertigo) – This dark spin on social media continues, with more of the 140 dropping off, but a new follower enters the fray.

 

Anthony

Top Pick: Birth of Kitaro GN (Drawn & Quarterly) – Kitaro is one of the most beloved characters in Japan. Created by Shigeru Mizuki, the titular character encounters a wide variety of yokai (creatures from Japanese folklore) in stories that appeal to both those interested in Japanese folklore and mythology as well as funny, great, entertaining manga. Finally, the West gets the first of a planned series of volumes with a translation by Zack Davisson.

Civil War II #1 (Marvel) – Say what you will about events for Marvel, this one looks to be the first event to make an impact in the post Secret Wars universe. Issue #0 didn’t really set many things up but did show a not too pleasant looking future. It will be refreshing to hopefully continue to have the series’ perspective from the same characters from the introductory issue.

Moon Knight #3 (Marvel) – Jeff Lemire, Greg Smallwood and Jordie Bellaire have been hypnotizing the reader thus far with a mysterious, brooding tale of Marc Spector combatting both demons (or Gods) both in his mind and in the physical world. This series has picked up the reigns from the last run of ‘Moon Knight’ and continues to prove that the character is one of the most intriguing in the Marvel universe.

Paper Girls #6 (Image Comics) – The first five issues were a fun callback to the action/adventure movies of the 1980s. It will be interesting to see what is in store with this title as the time frame switches to 2016. Plus, it is pretty hard to pass on Brian K. Vaughan, Cliff Chiang’s gorgeous visuals and one of the best colourists in the game with Matt Wilson.

The Revisionist #1 (Aftershock Comics) – Frank J. Barbiere is back with another intriguing title that is sure to bring the wit and fun nature of past titles like ‘Five Ghosts’, alongside artist Garry Brown and colourist Lauren Affe. All it takes, beyond the creative team, to be sold on this book are three words: time-travelling assassin. Plus, Aftershock has been releasing some really fresh, outside the box kinds of titles.

 

Alex

Top Pick: 4001 A.D. #2 (Valiant) – I’m not going to lie – I’ve already read this. It’s my top pick because I can’t wait to see the artwork in printed form. So excited.

The Goddamned #4 (Image Comics) – It feels like an age since the third issue came out, and I hadn’t realized how much I missed reading Jason Aaron’s take on the time before Noah needed his Arc. Brutal, bloody, and probably offensive. I love it.

Moon Knight #3 (Marvel) – To be honest, this isn’t the best Moon Knight series I’ve ever read, but it’s far from the worst. With each issue getting a little better, I’m hopeful for the rest of the series.

Old Man Logan #7 (Marvel) – After the anticlimactic first arc, the old man’s second story arc is, so far at least, feeling a hell of a lot better. What’s more classic Wolvie feeling than having him face off against the Reavers?

Will Eisner’s The Spirit #11 (Dynamite Entertainment) – Speaking of things I love… this is arguably the best series being published right now featuring an urban based vigilante.

 

Brett

Top Pick: The Red Virgin & the Vision of Utopia (Dark Horse) – A portrait of revolutionary feminist Louise Michel, who took up arms against a French regime that executed thousands. Deported to a penal colony, Michel joined the cause of the indigenous population against colonial oppression. Is there a more “me” graphic novel? Been reading it, and it’s really interesting.

Chum #2 (Comixtribe) – The first issue was a great mix of surfing and noir. Take Jaws, minus the giant shark, and add a crime story to it, and you have this comic. So good and looking forward to seeing where it all goes.

Hellboy in Hell #10 (Dark Horse) – This is it. Hellboy transforms into what he was always meant to be as Mike Mignola wraps up this series.

Rough Riders #3 (Aftershock Comics) – FDR and his gang of historical figures are heading to Cuba. There’s something really fun about this alternate history comic that dives deep into real history to get things right. It’s entertaining and will get you to do some research too.

Superman: Rebirth #1 (DC Comics) – I loved the Superman: Lois and Clark miniseries and to see where and how this Superman fits into the Rebirth universe is going to be very interesting. That miniseries was filled with action, but also a lot of positivity. This issue serves as a fantastic end cap to that bridging the cap between that and what’s to come.

Review: The Goddamned #3

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goddamned03_CoverArtA“…and I will be a vagrant and a wanderer on the earth, and whoever finds me will kill me.” Genesis 4:15 

Before the Flood, the world was a brutal living hell with tribes killing each other for scraps, children are taken as slaves, and violence is the only law.

Welcome to the world of the Goddamned.

If you’re looking for a writer to explore the darker side of biblical history, and asking whether Noah could have built the Arc and fed the animals without some slightly underhanded methods, and whether Cain really was that evil, then look no further than Jason Aaron and The Goddamned.

As strong as the writing is here, the art of r.m. Guera and colourist Guilia Brusco are perfectly suited to both each other and to the harsh conditions within the pages of this comic. Despite my initial misgivings with the art style in the first issue, I’ve since come to thoroughly enjoy the scrappy, almost delicately brutal style since that first issue as I’ve become more immersed in this world.

Without beating around the bush, The Goddamned probably isn’t safe for younger readers (okay, it’s really not), but it’s a refreshingly brilliant comic that has absolutely no spandex in sight. There’s a lot of detail within these pages, everything from the words a character uses, to their speech patterns to the art itself. We’re still two issues away from the first trade paperback (which will be released in June), so it’s still too early to tell if the series will be one that’s highly recommended years down the road, but as it stands, I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s the case.

The Goddamned isn’t a happy comic. But it’s a damn good one.

Story: Jason Aaron Art: R.M. Guera Colourist: Guilia Brusco
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Read

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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port_imposter_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: Imposter #1 (21 Pulp) – Whenever 21 Pulp put a comic out, it’s worth paying attention. They are one of, if not the most exciting new publisher around. I was lucky enough to do an advance review of this book earlier this year, and I’m so excited to get my print copy on Wednesday (my shop actually ordered in two copies because I know my friend will love it). Cannot wait to read this again in print.

Bloodshot Reborn #11 (Valiant) – The best Bloodshot story I’ve read in a while, this arc is absolutely worth your time. The art is stunning, and Jeff Lemire is on fire here. Read this; you’ll not regret it.

The Goddamned #3 (Image) – Were it not for Imposter this would be my runaway top pick this week. I’m really enjoying the pre-apocalyptic story, and Jason Aaron’s take on the biblical stories. It’s brutal, bloody, and so so good.

Judge Dredd #3 (IDW Publishing) – Judge Dredd is so far out of his element in this series, that I just can’t get enough of him trying to enforce the law in a completely lawless land. The first two issues were fantastic, so I have high hopes for  this issue.

 

Paul

Top Pick: All-New X-Men #5 (Marvel) – I wasn’t sure about this title when it was first introduced, but damn am I enjoying the ride!  I have to say I’m over Warren and his moody worrying over Laura  every issue; dude, she’s Wolverine!  She can go running into a fight and come out of it…get over it Dawson.  And I would also like it if we saw more from Evan and Idie, other then just a panel here or there, or some background action.  BUT, this is definitely one road trip I’m on board with and look forward to this title.

All-New, All-Different Avengers #6 (Marvel) – I have been less then impressed with this title, but I stick with it…not exactly sure why.  Maybe hoping something good comes out of it?  This issue promises that; we finally find out why Vision has been acting like a tool and who the mystery bad guy is pulling his strings.  I just hope the reveal delivers the goods, or I think it’s time to give up this title.

All-New Inhumans #4 (Marvel) – Another great title I’m always looking forward to.  I love this whole world outreach program for Inhumans/Nuhumans; the cast of characters is great (loving Crystal in this leadership role) and this story arc especially feels very secret agent/spy like and I’m totally digging it.

Patsy Walker AKA Hellcat #3 (Marvel) – I remember reading issue 1 and I was thinking “Hellcat? More like Hello Kitty”  This was so cutesy and cartoony and totally not what I usually read…but here I am putting it on my top pick list.  I like the humour in it and seeing the everyday struggle for Patsy working towards her goal.  And sure she gets some superhero time but that doesn’t drive this title, and I’m ok with that.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Snowpiercer Vol. 3 Terminus (Titan Comics) – I’m a huge fan of the Snowpiercer comic series having read the first two volumes multiple times (one of the few comics I’ve done so). This third volume is a bit of a mystery to me, and were it goes I think will be interesting. Not knowing much about it has me excited and anticipating its release.

Imposter #1 (21 Pulp) – This first issue is choppy, but really fascinating. I don’t want to reveal the twist, but it’s a superhero series and something I don’t think I’ve seen before. To put out an original idea in a flooded market is impressive on its own. 21 Pulp is a publisher that should be on everyone’s radar.

Last Man Vol 4 Chase (First Second) – I love this graphic novel series and this latest volume is as much fun as the previous three. Great read for both adults and kids alike.

Street Fighter x G.I. Joe #1 (IDW Publishing) – The concept sounds goofy, but something also gets me to smile and think fun. I’m interested in seeing where this one goes and if it kicks up nostalgia like I think it will.

Transformers #50 (IDW Publishing) – I love IDW’s various Transformers series and this one is at the top of the pile for me. The last issue ended with a bang and this one sets off in a new direction as Earth is declared under the protection of Optimus Prime. But is it benevolence or a take over? Depends which side you’re on!

Mini Reviews For The Week Ending 19/12/2015

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

Alex

Klaus_002_A_MainThe Paybacks #3: Two words: Hell. Yes. Overall Rating: 9 Recommendation: Buy 

Klaus #2** This is easily one of the best looking comics on the racks this month, and it’s also one of the most entertaining. I’m really enjoying the sense of soul within it’s pages. Overall Rating: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy

Huck #2 was another comic released this week that just screams goodness. When an entire town conspire to keep the secret of a superhero, how can you not fall in love with the story? Overall Rating: 9 Recommendation: Buy

Invincible #126. I’ve not really read much Invincible lately, so reading the final issue of a three part reboot/not reboot probably wasn’t smart on my behalf, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Read

Judge Dredd #1 is an interesting new direction for the character. I’m curious to see what happens next, and this was just good enough to bring me back for more. Overall Rating: 7.75 Recommendation: Read

Will Eisner’s The Spirit #6: If you’ve been reading the series, then this is just more of the same, which is far from a bad thing. Well worth checking out if you haven’t been reading it. Overall Rating: 7.5 Recommendation: Read

King Conan: Wolves Beyond The Border #1 is the first Conan comic I’ve read in months, and it was awesome. There’s a lot of set up here for what’s going to come in the next few issues, and I’m looking forward to see what that’ll be – especially with the renewed interest in the character that’s bound to stem from the new movie. Overall Rating: 8.25 Recommendation: Read

 

Brett

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth #138 – Mignola has put together one of the best comic universes out there, and this issue feels like it’s building to something epic and huge for it all. Love each issue not just for the entertaining story but the amazing distinctive art that screams Mignolaverse. Overall Rating: 8.2 Recommendation: Read

Batman Europa #2 – Batman and Joker do battle together in a weird team-up that has the two trying to figure out who’s out to kill them. It’s a strange story, but the art is fantastic and to see these two team-up is really entertaining. A solid miniseries that I’m enjoying much more than I thought I would. Overall Rating: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Justice League #46 – This issue felt very off to me. It picks up after a month of one-shots and catches folks up to where we’re at, at least that’s what it feels like. It’s a meh issue that has some important moments, but comes off more as a recap than anything else. Overall Rating: 6.7 Recommendation: Pass

Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer and the Vampire Zoo – I’ve generally enjoyed the Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer series, and was looking forward to this comic. While this one has some funny moments the overall issue feels more like a video game going from one level to the next. Compared to what’s come before, this one just doesn’t stand up in quality. Overall Rating: 6.3 Recommendation: Pass

Descender #8 – I love this series and this one has a great feel of what I expect from a space opera epic. The art is top notch and this one has some cool trippy aspects to it that I look forward to seeing where they go. Overall Rating: 8.4 Recommendation: Buy

The Goddamned #2 – I’m still trying to figure out this series. It’s Jason Aaron’s twisted Bible tale and while I’m enjoying it, I’m still not quite sure what to think overall. I feel like I’m missing something. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

Goddamned02_CoverAHuck #2 – Just loving this series. It’s a fun innocent take on the superhero myth. Overall Rating: 8.1 Recommendation: Buy

I Hate Fairyland #3 – Holy shit is this series messed up. Twisted fairy tales that I feel a little dirty by the fact I’m enjoying it so much. Overall Rating: 8 Recommendation: Read

The Tithe #7 – Really relevant, Matt Hawkins has put together an interesting series that follows FBI agents tracking down folks using religion to manipulate elections. Sound familiar? Overall Rating: 7.9 Recommendation: Read

All-New X-Men #2 – The second issue feels like a middle tier X-Men run of the past. Some interesting ideas here and potential, but not blowing me away. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

Darth Vader Annual #1 – A one-shot that I feel will have some impact down the road. Marvel’s Star Wars comics are consistently fantastic reads. Overall Rating: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy

Illuminati #2 – This series focusing on some of Marvel’s villains getting together has been a really interesting read. One that I’m really enjoying with a good mix of humor and characters. Overall Rating: 7.7 Recommendation: Read

Monster World #1 – A throwback in many ways of a detective comic with a mystery on a movie studio plot. A little mixed on what I think overall, but not bad. Overall Rating: 7 Recommendation: Read

 

Elana

WickedDivine17-coverThe Wicked + The Divine #17. Guest artist Brandon Graham’s style combines manga and graffiti styles. Perfect match for Sakmet. His art steals the show on this issue and carries much of the storytelling. The character remains elusive in many ways but I did come away with more. I’d still like more from her. Overall Rating: 9

No Mercy #5. Really brutal. Great reveals and character beats. A few moments of characters shouting things I’ve been itching for them to say. I feel for Sister Inez here. She just wanted a roof for her school damnit! Overall Rating: 8

Weirdworld #1. Mike del Mundo’s art was central to the disturbing awesomeness and beauty of the Elektra series a couple of years back and his new sword and sandals on drugs series is a wonderful expansion on it. I enjoy the world they’re building and their Latina protagonist is a great new creation.  Overall Rating: 8.5

 

Shean

King Conan: Wolves Beyond The Border #1: With all the rumblings surrounding the new Conan movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as an older and wiser King, it is so cool of Dark Horse to expose some of those dimensions.The story by Timothy Truman is gritty, bloody, stinks of the Medieval Age, and a whole lot of fun. The art by Tomas Giorello, harken back to the old Conan comics I grew up reading with a touch of Frank Frazetta. Altogether , Great start to a promising miniseries, and seems to be the type of excitement the Bastard Executioner only hoped to come close to. Overall: 9.8

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

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

Review: The Goddamned #2

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Goddamned02_CoverA“And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.” –Genesis 6:6 

It’s 1,655 years after Eden, and life on Earth has already gone to hell. The world of man is a place of wanton cruelty and wickedness. Prehistoric monsters and stone-age marauders roam the land. Murder and destruction are the rule of the day. Humankind is a failed experiment. This is life before the Flood. The story of man on the verge of his first apocalypse.

Welcome to the world of the Goddamned.

You’ll soon find out that the world of the Goddamned is not a nice place. It’s a brutal place where the strongest rule, and is the setting for a strangely compelling comic. Jason Aaron and r.m. Guera have delivered an issue that isn’t afraid to show the darker side of history, indeed the depictions of some of the (unnamed in the issue) characters certainly have the potential to offend.

But it’s that edginess that Aaron brings to his re-imagined biblical tale that makes the comic that much stronger.

r.m. Guera and colourist Guilia Brusco are perfectly suited to each other and to this comic as they bring life to the beautifully realized wasteland the the story is set against. The chaotic nature of the artwork returns from last issue, only this time the art felt much easier to follow along with; whether that’s because I knew what to expect, or because the fight scenes told didn’t repeat the same angles as last time, I’m not sure. Either way, though, I’m a huge fan of the artwork.

The Goddamned isn’t going to be for everybody, but for those who do pick it up, you’re in for a treat. Yes, the language is certainly more adult than Thor, but there’s never a feeling of vulgarity to the way in which Aaron uses the words he uses. Indeed, you’ll notice that the more savage creatures you meet in the book tend to employ a simpler use of language than the more civilized characters. Coupled with the contrast between the degenerative appearance of the savages and the more human like appearance of the  others and you’ve got an easy(ish) way to distinguish between the two groups on first glance when all the characters are wearing skins and furs.

Jason Aaron has rightly earned a reputation of being a great writer of comics, pick up The Goddamned and find out why.

Story: Jason Aaron Art: r.m. Guera Colourist: Guilia Brusco
Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy

Image provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

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Lucifer_Cv1_SDCC_559dae8a9dfde9.56453707Wednesdays 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: Ivar, Timewalker #12 (Valiant) – This series has become one of my favourites with it’s mix of humour and intelligently handled time travel fueled story line that is both twisted and surprisingly easy to follow. With the current arc coming to a close this issue, I’m stoked to see just how the arc comes to a close.

The Goddamned #2 (Image Comics) – You know what? I love the idea behind this comic, and it’s re-imagining of a certain book has an edgy feel to it that I love. Violent and unapologetic, I can’t wait to see where Jason Aaron takes this.

Huck #2 (Image Comics) – The first issue was a great surprise filled with a childlike innocence. While I doubt that’ll continue, I am curious to see what direction Millar heads here.

Judge Dredd #1 (IDW Publishing) – A character that’s a staple for many Brits, I’m looking forward to see how this translates on this side of the pond.

Klaus #2 (BOOM! Studios) – Viking Santa as told by Grant Morrison with some stunning art by Dan Mora? Can’t. Get. Enough.

 

Brett

Top Pick: Lucifer #1 (Vertigo) – I’ve watched the television pilot for the 2016 television series, and I have no idea if this comic will be close in tone or plot. But, Vertigo has a solid history with the character and it’s one I’m eagerly awaiting to see what it’s like and about.

Descender #8 (Image Comics) – Jeff Lemire’s sci-fi tale isn’t just touching and exciting, but the art by Dustin Nguyen is beautiful to look at. Last issue had a hell of a revelation (though you could see it coming) that has me even more excited to see what’s next.

Superman: American Alien #2 (DC Comics) – The first issue of this miniseries was one of the best takes on Superman that I’ve read in a long time. I can’t wait to see what the second issue has in store for us.

Squadron Supreme #1 (Marvel) – The concept of a super power team from other worlds taking out threats through any means necessary is intriguing. This is the Avengers who have no issue killing. The concept sounds a bit like the Dark Avengers to me, and that’s ok since it was a concept that worked, and these character push should make an interesting eventually collision with the rest of the Marvel U.

Weirdworld #1 (Marvel) – I’ve already read the first issue and I’ll admit that this comic was initially low on my list. But, after reading that first issue, I can say this is one of the best debuts of All-New, All-Different Marvel and a solid read this week. Fantastic debut.

 

Elana

Top Pick: Phonogram: The Immaterial Girl #6 (Image Comics) – I couldn’t love a comic more. In Phonogram phonomancers use music to do magic, generally to transform themselves (which never ever backfires, oh no). A must read for anyone who is super particular about what they listen to. Here’s my treatise on why this comic is so brilliant.  and here’s my fan mix/review of issue 4.

Top Pick: The Wicked + The Divine #17 (Image Comics) – Finally: the Sekmet issue! We haven’t heard much from the Rihanna cat goddess stand in so I’m eager to hear what she has to say. The art is from Brandon Graham who’s anime and hip-hop influenced style is PURRREFECT (sorry) for this issue. Check out my review of issue 16.

Batgirl #46 (DC Comics) – Spoiler is back! Spoiler is back! Batgirl is teaming up with Spoiler!

Jem & The Holograms Holiday Special (IDW Publishing) – Sounds like fun mischief with The Misfits. Sophie Campbell’s exhuberant and wonderfully diverse art has been key to the series success but I am excited to get our first look at new artist Amy Mebberson. She’s done a lot of Disney but I hope she maintains the body diversity that has made this comic resonate with so many people.

The Mighty Thor #2 (Marvel) – Issue 1 starred the arm seen round the (comics) world. Can’t wait to see what issue 2 has for Doctor Jane Foster who is Thor and is awesome.

 

Javier

Top Pick: Descender #8 (Image Comics) – Tim-21 and Tim-22 team up to join the Robot Resistance. Forget Star Wars, when is J.J. Abrams making a Descender movie. Just kidding, I love Star Wars too, but this is really good sci-fi storytelling. Asimov would approve, and so do I.

Cognetic #3 (Boom! Studios) – James Tynion IV’s and Eryk Donavan’s latest horror book concludes as the Apocalyptic Sister and Brother mind bending sibling rivalry comes to an end (for at least one of the two).

ExMortis #2 (451 Media) – Monsters unite to fight the first True Monster: Hitler. Good old fashioned WW II action with a Frankenstein versus Nazis twist; and a werewolf, too, thrown in for good measure.

Tokyo Ghost #4 (Image Comics) – Rick Remender’s dystopian, over-entertained future society, riddled with Japanese inspired memes, is depressing and entertaining at the same time. Plus Sean Murphy’s visuals pushes this one over the edge.

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #2 (Valiant Entertainment) – The Eternal Warrior’s Dantean escape from Hell (or was it Paradise) begins. It’s written by Robert Venditti who never disappoints, with steel inspired blood splattering art by Raul Allen.

Around the Tubes

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It’s a new week and we’re getting closer to the end of the year. We’re thinking about what should be on our best of lists, how about you?

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

Around the Tubes

KMTR – Comic Con celebrities pay pediatric patients a surprise visit – This is awesome. It’d be great for all cons to help celebrities and creators visit local hospitals to help kids.

CBR – British Comic Awards announces 2015 winners – Congrats to the winners.

Kotaku – Custom Transformers Devastation Optimus Prime Figure Imitates Art – Beautiful.

GamePolitics – SXSW online harassment summit expanded – Good to see.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

CBR – The Divine

Talking Comics – The Goddamned #1

CBR – Miss: Better Living Through Crime

ICv2 – Strike the Blood Vol. 1

CBR – Tim Ginger

CBR – Web Warriors #1

Review: The Goddamned #1

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Goddamned01_CoverA“And the earth was filled with violence.” Genesis 6:11

It’s 1,655 years after Eden, and life on Earth has already gone to hell. The world of man is a place of wanton cruelty and wickedness. Prehistoric monsters and stone-age marauders roam the land. Murder and destruction are the rule of the day. Humankind is a failed experiment. This is life before the Flood. The story of man on the verge of his first apocalypse.

Welcome to the world of the Goddamned.
Jason Aaron has reunited with his Scalped collaborator r.m. Guera to bring us an entirely new kind of post (or pre, depending on how you look at it) apocalyptic tale. Set millienia ago The Goddamned is a look at a time before the biblical Flood where violence and squalor was the way of a barren world. Visually, that comes across perfectly as r.m. Guera illustrates some stunning vistas that are beautifully brought to life by colourist Guilia Brusco despite the barren desert landscape.

There is a level of detail in the art here that’s easy to miss unless you’re paying attention to it, adding incentive to really study each panel; in some cases, particularly during a suitably violent fight, the need to study the panels of the comic arise not because of the detail packed in, but because it can get a bit hard to tell just what exactly is going on. It doesn’t happen often, and when it does it’s in the chaos of battle, so I gave the comic the benefit of the doubt as it was an effective way of conveying the aforementioned chaos (whether intentional or not).

The Goddamned #1 has quite a bit of pace to it, with minimal text and speech for a majority of the pages within he comic; I like how the pages with minimal text impacts the way in which the story is told, just as I’m looking forward to seeing how the series will pan out five, six, seven or more issues down the road. Jason Aaron has earned a reputation of being a great writer of comics, and part of that is his ability to plot out a long story, and I can’t wait to see where he’ll take us with The Goddamned.

Story: Jason Aaron Art: R.M. Guera Colourist: Guilia Brusco
Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read

Image provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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