THE HANGMAN #4
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick
Cover: Tim Bradstreet
Variant Cover: Greg Smallwood
On Sale Date: 10/26
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
“Damned, Part 4” Mike Minetta has not been the Hangman long but he already faces the hardest decision any Hangman has ever had to make—let his family die… or save them and defy the will of Heaven and Hell itself!
THE HANGMAN #3
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Hangman #3 CVR A Reg: Tim Bradstreet
The Hangman #3 CVR B Variant: Peter G. Krause
On Sale Date: 3/9
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
“Damned, Part 3” From the very depths of Hell… a new Hangman arises! Can this newest incarnation of the urban legend do what it takes to save his soul—or will be walk the Earth forever unredeemed? He will if the demon Azmodeus has anything to say about it!
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
Iron Bard Ballisto (Milk and Shadow Books) Was one of those comics that I didn’t know what to expect. It’s funny, irreverent, and utterly worth reading. The Iron Bard is a warrior uses music to fight his enemies, and this leads to some genuine laugh out loud moments. I loved it. Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy
The Hangman #2 (Dark Circle) I was’t a huge fan of the first issue, but this one is better, and actually puts a bit of perspective on the last issue. As things are progressing, this may be a series to watch, and eventually pick up in trade; but there’s just not enough here (yet) for me to recommend you buy this. Overall:7 Recommendation: Read the Trade
The Spirit #7 (Dynamite) This series has been a consistently solid effort for the past six issues, and this issue is no exception. It is part 7 of a 12 issue tale, so not the best place to jump on, but when collected this will be a fantastic story to read. It may not be the bet thing since sliced bread, but what it does well it does very well. I’d definitely pick this up in the eventual trade, or the full series. Whatever works for you. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Bigfoot: Sword Of The Earthman #2 (Action Lab) This is a rollicking good sci-fi adventure in the vein of John Carter. But with a Sasquatch. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Surviving Megalopolis (Dark Horse) I never read the original Leaving Megalopolis, but you don’t need to in order to enjoy this comic (it may help, though). Worth looking into if you enjoy your heroes turning crazy evil, coupled with some great art and writing. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Brett
BPRD Hell on Earth #139 (Dark Horse) – A solid issue with an epic battle. It’s not a good one for new readers, but for long time readers it’s a solid payoff and that ending is just a holy shit moment we’ve all been waiting for. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read
Star Wars #15 (Marvel) – Why did Uncle Owen dislike Kenobi? What was Kenobi doing on Tattoine? This issue answers so many questions and also asks even more. For Star Wars fans, it’s a must get. Overall: 8.6 Recommendation: Buy
Transformers #49 (IDW Publishing) – Really, it’s all about that ending and set up for issue 50. And that ending got me so excited. This is a great ending to the current arc that sets up a hell of a direction to come. Tons and action and all fun. Overall: 8.3 Recommendation: Read
Uncanny X-Men #2 (Marvel) – I love Cullen Bunn’s story. I hate Greg Land’s art. The Dark Riders are back, and they are badass, and this story is such a good focus on two characters. Just need a better artist, aaaargh! This would be “the” comic if that were the case. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read
Ryan C
Devolution #1 (Dynamite)**: The post-apocalyptic Las Vegas setting is a page out of “Resident Evil,” but the most obvious influence here is Alan Moore and Gabriel Andrade’s criminally-overlooked “Crossed + One Hundred,” as Rick Remender and Jonathan Wayshak bring us a not-quite-zombie tale with a twist featuring a strong, well-rounded female lead .Gorgeous art, but maybe titles like “Black Science,” Tokyo Ghost,” and “Low” had me expecting more from Remender-penned sci-fi than we’re getting here so far, because, while admittedly fun, this is plainly — and at times even painfully — derivative stuff. Overall: 6 Recommendation: Read.
Lucifer #2 (Vertigo)* : The addition of groan-inducing lame humor into the mix of Holly Black and Lee Garbett’s take on the former head honcho of Hell is actually quite a bit of fun, as is the injection of a subplot centered around a trapped demon who’s unable to get a luckless mortal to do his bidding because, well, she’s already taken matters into her own hands and decided to start killing everyone she doesn’t like herself. Not sure how it all ties together, but then, that was often the case with the best of the slow-developing “old-school” Vertigo storylines, which this series is taking great pains to (successfully, I might add) invoke. And now, having paid his less-than-respects to fan-favorite character Mazikeen, Lucifer is heading to — The Dreaming! The cynic in me really wants to actively dislike how obvious this all is, but the eternal optimist I only let out on special occasions is loving the ride so far and can’t wait for more. Overall: 7.5. Recommendation: Buy
Clean Room #4 (Vertigo)*: This one’s taken some time to grow on me, and with the fourth issue I think that Gail Simone and Jon Davis-Hunt have finally hit the “sweet spot.” And by sweet, I should say that I actually mean sour — there are no real redeeming characters here, and the psychological implications of the horror on offer are as relentlessly disturbing as their physical manifestations. Do I completely understand what’s happening? Shit no, I can’t even competently summarize it. But it leaves me thinking — a lot. And certainly rewards careful re-reading, as the plot is almost meticulous in its intricacy. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Tokyo Ghost #5 (Image)**: Balls-out action underpinned by a shitload of tragedy, both moral and physical, adds up to the most briskly-paced, edge-of-your-seat issue of this developing Rick Remender/Sean Murphy potential dystopian sci-fi masterpiece yet. Every panel a gut-punch, every word dripping with import, April can’t come soon enough, this first arc was the most glorious train wreck in ages. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Shean
Star Trek Volume 11 (IDW): I have been a Trekkie my whole life and the work IDW has done with the reboot and the original continuity has been impressive so far especially with this collection of stories . In the first story, they explore an interesting theory of quantum physics. The second story plays much like the beginning of Star Trek: Into Darkness , if the crew encountered Birdmen. The last story is probably my favorite, as it wrangles all of our favorite doctors from the different TV series as they meet the iconic Dr. McCoy. Overall, an excellent collection that stays true to Gene Roddenberry ‘s spirit.
Overall: 10 Recommendation:Buy
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 (**).
THE HANGMAN #2
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
Cover: Tim Bradstreet
Variant Cover: Mike Huddleston
On Sale Date: 1/20
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
Join us as we embark on the highway to Hell—and a meet and greet with its overlord, the devil himself! Who will be the one ultimately taking this horrifying trip? Find out as we learn the truth about who and what the Hangman actually is… and the shocking legacy that accompanies him.
THE BLACK HOOD #10
“The Lonely Crusade, Part 4” When he donned the Black Hood, Greg Hettinger swore to keep the awful truth from those he cares about most—his partner Devon, his friend Jessie. But he’s going to have to break those promises if he’s going to survive the death trap that the Crusaders have prepared for him… and nothing will ever be the same.
Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Greg Scott, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Black Hood #10 CVR A Reg: Francesco Francavilla
The Black Hood #10 CVR B Variant: David Mack
On Sale Date: 3/23
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
THE HANGMAN #4
“Damned, Part 4” Mike Minetta has not been the Hangman long but he already faces the hardest decision any Hangman has ever had to make—let his family die… or save them and defy the will of Heaven and Hell itself!
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
The Hangman #4 CVR A Reg: Tim Bradstreet
The Hangman #4 CVR B Variant: Greg Smallwood
On Sale Date: 3/16
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
THE SHIELD #4
“Daughter of the Revolution, Part 4” She has served her country well, fighting for US interests the world over. But when the Shield’s next mission ends in tragedy on American soil—a tragedy televised live to every home in the country—the true nature of Black Seven is revealed as the superhero the world has been waiting generations for becomes… Public Enemy Number 1!
Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig
Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick
The Shield #4 CVR A Reg: Drew Johnson
The Shield #4 CVR B Variant: Andrew Robinson
On Sale Date: 3/30
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
JUGHEAD #5
Riverdale High was just the beginning as Principal Stanger’s despotic reach shuts down Pop’s Shoppe! Jughead and the gang need to stop him once and for all! Maybe with the help of the SuperTeens and… Iron Mantle??
Script: Chip Zdarsky
Art: Erica Henderson, Jack Morelli
Jughead #5 CVR A Reg Cover: Erica Henderson
Jughead #5 CVR B Variant: Elliot Fernandez
Jughead #5 CVR C Variant: Thomas Pitilli
On Sale Date: 3/23
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
ARCHIE #7
Hiram Lodge finally learns who his daughter, Veronica, is dating. And when he realizes that it’s the boy who destroyed their mansion-to-be, his resulting rage will upend the entire town of Riverdale in this next installment of the best-selling all-new ARCHIE series!
Script: Mark Waid
Art: Veronica Fish
Archie #7 CVR A Reg Cover: Veronica Fish
Archie #7 CVR B Variant: Djibril Morissette-Phan
Archie #7 CVR C Variant: Marguerite Sauvage
On Sale Date: 3/30
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #267
When Mr. Weatherbee has had enough of the teens’ sloppy attire in the halls of his school, he decides to enforce a mandatory dress code for Riverdale High. Unfortunately, the new dress code is a bit too high class for some of the students. Can they afford to look presentable? Or will they end up making clowns of themselves? Find out in “Mess Code!” the fun, all-new lead story to this comics double digest!
Script: Fernando Ruiz
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/30
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.
BETTY & VERONICA JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #242
In this next segment of “The Many Loves of Archie Andrews,” we get the lowdown on Amisha Mehta, who recently moved to Riverdale with her family after her and Archie met in India when the Archies were on their world tour. Archie and Amisha are working on a Bollywood project for film class, but of course, Archie has ulterior motives—like winning her heart! But Amisha has her eye on Raj Patel! Yet another love triangle… Bollywood style! See how it all unfolds in “Hooray for Bollywood!” the lead story in this JUMBO comics digest!
Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent, Bob Smith
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/23
256-page, full color comic
$6.99 U.S.
JUGHEAD & ARCHIE SPRING ANNUAL #20
Archie and Vegas’s new trick has made a viral splash, and Archie’s collapsing under the pressure of his pup’s newfound popularity! Can Archie get everyone to quiet down, or will he and Vegas be doomed to never walk the streets of Riverdale in peace again? Find out in “Paws for Effect” the entertaining, new lead story to this special spring annual, featuring even more pages of fun!
Script: Adrian Ropp
Art: Bill Galvan
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 4/13
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.
SONIC SUPER DIGEST #16
Get ready for fun & adventure—it’s Sonic Super Digest! Don’t miss all the excitement and action you love in stories from the Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic Universe and Sonic Boom™ comic series! Sonic and his friends embark on daring adventures, face evil villains and save the day one chili dog at a time! Spin into the fun that only Archie Comics and Sonic Super Digest can bring! Featuring awesome new cover art from CG artist supreme Rafa Knight and story & art from the biggest names in Sonic comics history!
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Rafa Knight
On Sale Date: 4/6
128-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #283
SONIC and the FREEDOM FIGHTERS are GO in “The Mission”: Sonic and Sally put out the call to the world! They have the Chaos Emeralds, they have the Gaia Keys, and now they have a plan! And the central hero to it all is… Cream?! Then, in “Zero Hour,” Dr. Eggman finally tracks down Phage! And when Tails Doll gives the mad doctor some crucial info, will Sonic’s plans for saving the world fall apart? Featuring cover art by the delightful Diana Skelly and a “GUARDIANS” variant cover by the amazing Adam Bryce Thomas!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jennifer Hernandez, Terry Austin, John Workman & Gabriel Cassata
Sonic the Hedgehog #283 CVR A Reg: Diana Skelly
Sonic the Hedgehog #283 CVR B Variant: Adam Bryce Thomas, Gary Martin & Gabriel Cassata
On Sale Date: 4/13
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
SONIC UNIVERSE #86
It’s the END for EGGMAN in “Eggman’s Dozen” Part Four: The final, frantic fracas is here! Dr. Eggman and his Egg Bosses square off against the Naugus Twins and the fearsome Crystal Sonic! Will everyone make it out of the battle alive? And who is the twelfth and final Egg Boss? All the action and answers are here! Featuring cover art by Mr. Sonic comics, Tracy Yardley and a “Baddie Bunch” variant by the radical Ryan Jampole!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Adam Bryce Thomas, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #86 CVR A Reg: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #86 CVR B Variant: Ryan Jampole
On Sale Date: 3/23
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
TEAM BETTY VS. TEAM VERONICA (TR)
It’s the ultimate battle for Archie’s heart! Betty and Veronica, the best of frenemies, have been locked in a tug-of-war over Riverdale’s favorite redhead for over 70 years. Will you root for Betty, the sweet and innocent girl-next-door, or for Veronica, the rich and sophisticated socialite? Will Archie finally be able to choose between them? Archie’s girls go head-to-head in this excellent collection of winner-take-Arch stories featuring two books in one—each half features stories of one girl getting the better of the other, and readers can literally pick a side in the eternal battle of Betty vs. Veronica in this flipbook format graphic novel!
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover(s): Harry Lucey
978-1-62738-870-2
$10.99/$11.99 CAN
5 ¼” x 8”
TR
224 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/30
WORLD OF ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #57
When Archie’s emotional, bawling display at a romantic chick flick goes viral, Archie vows to prove his masculinity—no matter what that takes! Can he prove he’s not a crybaby? Or will he have to accept the fact that he’ll never be a macho man? Find out in “The Art of Chaos!” the hilarious new lead story to this comics double digest!
Script: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/16
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.
THE BLACK HOOD #10
“The Lonely Crusade, Part 4” When he donned the Black Hood, Greg Hettinger swore to keep the awful truth from those he cares about most—his partner Devon, his friend Jessie. But he’s going to have to break those promises if he’s going to survive the death trap that the Crusaders have prepared for him… and nothing will ever be the same.
Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Michael Gaydos, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Black Hood #10 CVR A Reg: Francesco Francavilla
The Black Hood #10 CVR B Variant: David Mack
On Sale Date: 2/24
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
THE HANGMAN #5
“Damned, Part 5” This is it—a battle that’s been brewing for eons! The Devil vs. Asmodeus! With the fate of the Hangman in the balance! Will the outcome cost Mike Minetta his family… and his soul? Find out as Damned hits its startling conclusion!
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
The Hangman #5 CVR A Reg: Tim Bradstreet
The Hangman #5 CVR B Variant: Felix Ruiz
On Sale Date: 3/2
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
ARCHIE #6
The biggest comic series of the year continues into 2016! Archie and Jughead are on the outs with each other, and now Archie has no one to help him against the fury that is Hiram Lodge! Not even Veronica wants to go up against her own father! Rising star comics artist Veronica Fish (Howard the Duck, the RIVERDALE CW promo image) joins the legendary Mark Waid for another brand new issue of the hit series!
Script: Mark Waid
Art: Veronica Fish, Andre Szymanowicz, Jen Vaughn, Jack Morelli
Archie #6 CVR A Reg Cover: Veronica Fish
Archie #6 CVR B Variant: Derek Charm
Archie #6 CVR C Variant: Marguerite Sauvage
On Sale Date: 2/17
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
ARCHIE: VOLUME 1 (TR)
ARCHIE, one of the longest-running titles in comic book history, is rebooted here in this full-color collection that brings together two of the most talented creators in comics, Mark Waid and Fiona Staples. Together they create a surprising and definitive take on the origins of everyone’s favorite redheaded teen and his friends while showcasing the beginnings of the historic love triangle between Archie, Betty and Veronica. The book captures the bite and hilarious edge of Archie’s original tales in a modern, forward-looking manner, while still retaining the character’s all-ages appeal. ARCHIE Vol. 1 collects ARCHIE #1-6 and features bonus content including scripts, sketches and variant covers.
Script: Mark Waid
Art: Fiona Staples, Annie Wu, Veronica Fish, Andre Szymanowicz, Jen Vaughn, Jack Morelli
Cover: Fiona Staples
978-1-62738-867-2
$19.99/$21.99 CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
TR
160 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/9
ARCHIE’S FUNHOUSE COMICS ANNUAL #19
Veronica puts all thoughts of Archie aside when her parents reveal that one of her old friends from summer camp has blossomed into a Hollywood hunk and is coming to their house for a visit. But when Ron gets a glimpse at the tanned California girls this leading man seems to favor, will she go several steps too far to try and transform herself into his ideal love interest? Find out in “Orange You Lovely,” the brand new lead story to this comics annual, featuring even more pages of fun!
Script: James Gartler
Art: Bill Galvan
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/9
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.
ARCHIE COMICS SPECTACULAR: HIGH SCHOOL HIJINKS (TR)
Get ready for some classroom calamity with all of your favorite Riverdale High School students! This edition collects the best high school stories from Archie and his friends! This fun, pocket-sized collection features 128 pages of hand-picked, favorite school-centric stories, presented in high-quality, bright white paper with a cardstock cover.
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Various
978-1-62738-866-5
$5.99/$6.99 CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16″
TR
128 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/2
BETTY & VERONICA COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #241
This time in “the Many Loves of Archie Andrews,” Archie has decided to set his sights on Sabrina the Teenage Witch! And, after being dumped by her long-time boyfriend, Harvey, Sabrina’s ready to move on—and our red-headed Romeo is just the mortal to do the trick! There’s only one person who’s standing in the way of true romance—actually, make that two people—Sabrina’s aunts Hilda and Zelda! If you think Mr. Lodge and Archie have clashed before… wait until you see Archie vs. Zelda and Hilda in “Witch Way Out?” the brand new lead story to this comics double digest!
Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Bill Galvan, Jim Amash, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 2/17
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.
B&V FRIENDS COMICS ANNUAL #247
Betty and Veronica just can’t agree who has the more difficult life. Betty says that her financial status means she has to work extra hard, while Ronnie says that her parents put a lot of pressure on her to measure up to the Lodge family name. There’s only one way to settle this argument: by trading places for a day! When the girls have to walk in each other’s shoes, what will they learn about their BFF—and themselves? Find out in “Room for Improvement,” the brand new lead story to this comics annual featuring even more pages of fun!
Script: Angelo DeCesare
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 2/24
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.
JUGHEAD & ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #19
When Mr. Lodge needs some assistance fixing up Lodge Manor, Archie and Jughead offer to help make some repairs. Mr. Lodge isn’t sure he trusts them, but with the power of “how-to” videos on MyTube, Archie promises that they can fix anything—and for free! Will Archie and Jughead be regular fixer-uppers, or will Mr. Lodge end up getting exactly what he paid for? Find out in “Fixit Friends,” the hilarious lead story to this comics double digest!
Script: Francis Bonnet
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Dan Parent, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 3/2
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.
SONIC / MEGA MAN: WORLDS UNITE Vol. 2 “Broken Bonds”
The sequel to the record-shattering Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man crossover is here! You saw what happened when “Worlds Collide!” Now brace yourself for when WORLDS UNITE! Sigma—the brilliant villain from the future—has fused the worlds of Sonic the Hedgehog and Mega Man together! Now he feeds on the super-planet’s energy to become unstoppable! It’s up to Sonic and Mega Man to raise an army to fight the time-hopping villain. Joining them are the Freedom Fighters, the Robot Masters, X and his Maverick Hunters, Sticks and her friends, and—Dr. Eggman and Dr. Wily?! But it won’t be easy, as Sigma uses his powers to reach across space and time to recruit an army of his own! It’s a battle of epic proportions to save the Unified World! Featuring the introduction of the STREET FIGHTER cast, including Ryu, Chun-Li, Guile and Ken! This volume collects WORLDS UNITE parts 5-8, including SONIC UNIVERSE #77, SONIC BOOM #9, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #274, MEGA MAN #51 and selections from the MEGA MAN: WORLDS UNITE BATTLES and SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: WORLDS UNITE BATTLES plus special features!
Script: Ian Flynn and various
Art: Edwin Huang, Gary Martin, John Workman, Gabriel Cassata and various
Cover: Patrick Spaziante
978-1-62738-868-9
$14.99/$16.99 CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16”
TR
136 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 3/9
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #282
SONIC fights FIRE with FURY in “Wings of Fire” Part Two: When Sonic was infected with the Dark Gaia energy, he nearly all lost control of his mutant Werehog form. So what happens when an ancient and powerful phoenix gets turned to the dark side?! It’s a three-way battle as Sonic and Dulcy’s teams battle for their lives against the Dark Gaia Phoenix and Egg Army! Then, in “Shards and Sparks,” Knuckles and Mighty reunite to take on Egg Boss Thunderbolt! Featuring cover art by the terrific Tyson Hesse and a spooky “Horror Movie” variant by the mega-talented T. Rex!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jennifer Hernandez, Terry Austin, John Workman & Gabriel Cassata
Sonic the Hedgehog #282 CVR A Reg: Tyson Hesse
Sonic the Hedgehog #282 CVR B Variant: T. Rex
On Sale Date: 3/9
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
SONIC UNIVERSE #85
Dr. EGGMAN gets CRACKING in “Eggman’s Dozen” Part Three: Dr. Eggman has assembled his evil Egg Bosses to take back his Egg Refinery from the Naugus Twins! The plan seems straight forward enough, but what happens when the Eggman’s minions can’t work together? Can the mad doctor scramble to survive or will his shaky alliances leave him fried? Featuring egg-tastic cover art by dynamite Diana Skelly and a wonderfully “Wicked” variant cover by artist supreme Dan Schoening!
Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #85 CVR A Reg: Diana Skelly, Jim Amash & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #85 CVR B Variant: Dan Schoening & Luis Antonio Delgado
On Sale Date: 2/24
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
THE HANGMAN #1
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
Cover: Timothy Bradstreet
Variant Covers: Felix Ruiz, Francesco Francavilla, Robert Hack
On Sale Date: 11/4
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
They say the Hangman is nothing more than an urban legend. A spook story told to scare criminals straight. But those who encounter him—like hitman “Mad Dog” Mike Minetta—know different. They know that when he comes for you… you’re dead already. Join fan-favorite writer Frank Tieri (WOLVERINE, BATMAN) and artist extraordinaire Felix Ruiz (WOLVERINE MAX, HALO) for an ongoing tale of horror, the supernatural and violence… and learn why some men may never be redeemed.
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
Cage Hero #1 is a surprisingly enjoyable mix of superpowers and mixed martial artists. A fun comic that has an amusingly unique take on the superhero origin story (even if the high school setting is somewhat familiar). Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read.
One of the more interesting takes on the vigilante heroes lately has come in the form of The Black Hood. Issue #6 is a standalone tale that focuses on the title character’s battle with an addiction to prescription pain killers while he continues to go beyond the law in administering justice. The art is crisp and the colours entice you into the brutally honest world within these pages. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Mono is a superbly envisioned collection about a secret agent with a prehensile tale that is, frankly, visually stunning. This was a collection that captivated me from start to finish with it’s mix of pulpy goodness and pseudo history, it was a joy to read. Overall: 8.25 Recommendation: Buy
Brett
Art Ops #1 – A fascinating new Vertigo series I’m still trying to wrap my head around. It’s basic idea is that art is real, and there’s this agency that protects the beings within the pictures. At least that’s my understanding of it. It’s pretty out there. Not sure if I’m totally sold, but it’s absolutely original. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read
The Black Hood #6 – A one-shot that seems like it’ll lead into the next story arc. Howard Chaykin joins on art, and while I figured out the twist a bit before it was revealed, the comic is still really entertaining. If you’re looking for a comic about a cop/junkie/vigilante, then look no further! Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy
Chew #51 – The series is coming to its finale and this is our first look after its major confrontation and battle. We get to see where some characters are in their lives and what the world is like. There’s still some big questions to be answered, but this comic continues the over the top humor that consistently gets me to laugh. Overall: 8 Recommendation: Read
The Hangman #1 – This first issue is fascinating. It doesn’t quite get us to what I think is where the series goes next, but we learn about the boogeyman that is the Hangman in the mob. The comic is absolutely adult, and really puts the “dark” in Dark Circle. It definitely piqued my interest. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Read
Revival #34 – What brought all the folks back to life? We still don’t know what’s behind Revivers, but this issue has some impressive revelations that started to make the puzzle clearer. It’s also a hell of a confrontation between Dana and her father. It’s an issue full of emotion and catharsis, a great jumping on point. Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Daphne
The final issue of the A-Force miniseries was awesome. Ending it with an all-out war that showcased dozens of Marvel Comics ladies was a great decision, and makes me super excited for the full series to come out. The series itself wasn’t as strong in the middle as its beginning, but it ended with a great climax and I can’t wait to see more. Overall Score: 9 Recommendation: Buy
Ms. Marvel ended on a high note in time for the big company-wide relaunch initiative. With Kamala’s world ending we finally get some plot points wrapped up in really satisfying ways, and the story ends in a really optimistic and emotional that is totally worthy of the Miss Marvel name. This was probably the best “Last Days” story to come out of Secret Wars, and I love that it left us with both closure and a great setup for things to come. I can’t wait to see what happens with the relaunch. Overall: 10 Recommendation: Buy
Elana
This has been a banner month for Catwoman, Constantine and Gotham Academy. Each has just printed it’s best issue yet. Each of these comics reaches a pinnacle of a completely compelling storyline here and delivers and delivers and delivers. These are among the best comics today. Buy. Buy. Buy.
Over the Garden Wall issues 1 and 2 are lovely contributions to the world of the animated show. I rewatched the cartoon after reading them and they fill in the blanks in the series so well that I would strongly suggest anyone who likes the cartoon pick up these comics immediately. They are charming and wistful like the series. They even contain a page of sheet music in the back! Overall: 9 Recommendation: Buy
Heathen from comixology submit: promising fantasy/folklore story from a promising new creative talent Natasha Alterici. Compelling queer female lead. Evocative painted art. You can shiver it it looks so cold. I hope she continues the series! I’ll give it an 8 if she can keep this up! Recommendation: Buy.
Revenger from comixology submit: this is an angry comic. The art evokes Benjamin Marra (his art is also angry). If you are in the mood for angry, revenge violence with a very raw nerve core then give this a go. It’s got that ugly but compelling look to the art. Badass black butch female lead who reminds me of a cross between Grace Jones and The Man with No Name. Feels pretty punk rock. Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy
Concrete Park Volume 2 this is a radical scifi book with politics on it’s sleeve. Striking character design. Impeccable world building. Check out those maps! The world they invent is completely unique. An urban dystopia in space. Strong critique of the prison-industrial system and sexism. It deserves a full length review. This was the best thing I got at New York Comic Con. I love it so much! And I’ve only read the 2nd volume. Definitely going to buy the first one but I think it speaks to how well written the 2nd volume is that I was able to get totally involved in it without any of the earlier information. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy
Kenny
Colder: Toss the Bones #2 continues its trend of being creepy as hell. Nimble Jack’s relentless tormenting of Declan plays on the idea of that feeling that someone is watching you. The story toys with that psychological idea to great effect. It is uncomfortable seeing Declan unknowingly having his life manipulated by Jack. Each of Jack’s action are so dark and uncomplicated by morality, that he has become a menacing figure who seems unstoppable at this point. This comic is still proving to be one of the best horror comics out and one that needs your attention. Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is moving in a completely new and exciting direction after the epic conclusion of TMNT #50. Issue #51 sets the stage for a Turtles’ arc as they try and navigate their new position as, well, I won’t spoil it for you. Find out for yourself and see the one of the most interesting premises for a Turtles story I’ve seen in a long time. Overall 8.5 Recommendation: Buy
Well, there you have it, folks. The reviews we didn’t quite get a chance to write.
They say the Hangman is nothing more than an urban legend. A spook story told to scare criminals straight. But those who encounter him—like hitman “Mad Dog” Mike Minetta—know different. They know that when he comes for you… you’re dead already. Join fan-favorite writer Frank Tieri and artist extraordinaire Felix Ruiz for an ongoing tale of horror, the supernatural and violence… and learn why some men may never be redeemed.
The last series from Dark Circle Comics I read was the fantastic The Fox. It was a mixture of mad cap action, odd ball humour and surprising moments of comic ultra violence (albeit rare in the six issues released). The Fox was one of the best comics on the rack every week when it released because it was above all other things fun.
Something The Hangman isn’t.
The first issue of The Hangman is a particularly violent comic that’s liberally doused with dialogue that at times borders on excessive with the amount of, shall we say, sweary goodness. Now I’ve nothing against cursing, an while I usually try to avoid it in my writing, I am well aware that when used well it’s a great tool to accentuate your point and to give added depth to your characters. That there’s cursing in The Hangman #1 doesn’t bother me, indeed in some scenes it is quite effective, but there are other panels – perhaps one or two too many – where Frank Tieri goes above and beyond using the curse words as an effective tool and instead crosses the line into excess; that most of the excessive sweary goodness comes from one character is worth noting, and perhaps Tieri is underscoring the kind of guy that Mike Minetta is with the language he uses, and it took me a little out of the story; your mileage may vary, however.
Felix Ruiz provides some solid artwork, which is complemented nicely by Kelly Fitzpatrick‘s colours, especially as the comic progresses, and goes a long way to immersing you in the grubby feeling of the world we’re entering. More than almost anything else, it’s the artwork that set the tone with some scenes angled a certain way to give you a feel for the characters within the comic.
The story itself serves as a gateway into the world of The Hangman who seems (based off the preview imagery alone) like a mix between the Punisher and Batman, but how accurate that is is still an unanswered question, which I suspect will be answered within the next issue or two. The Hangman #1 genuinely disappointed me; I really wanted to like this series, and while it’s still too early to judge a series based on one issue, that first issue wasn’t a great start for me. I couldn’t help but compare it to the other Dark Circle offerings, and for me at least, it didn’t quite measure up.
I’m not ready to give up on The Hangman just yet, however, and hopefully the series will hit its stride with the next issue. If it does, I’ll let you know.
Story: Frank Tieri Art: Felix Ruiz Colours: Kelly Fitzpatrick
Story: 6.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.5 Recommendation: Pass
Dark Circle Comics provided Graphic Policy a FREE copy for review.
THE HANGMAN #1
Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
Cover: Timothy Bradstreet
Variant Covers: Felix Ruiz, Francesco Francavilla, Robert Hack
On Sale Date: 11/4
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.
They say the Hangman is nothing more than an urban legend. A spook story told to scare criminals straight. But those who encounter him—like hitman “Mad Dog” Mike Minetta—know different. They know that when he comes for you… you’re dead already. Join fan-favorite writer Frank Tieri (WOLVERINE, BATMAN) and artist extraordinaire Felix Ruiz (WOLVERINE MAX, HALO) for an ongoing tale of horror, the supernatural and violence… and learn why some men may never be redeemed.
