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 reviews of the comics, or graphic novels, we just didn’t get a chance to write a full one for.
These are Graphic Policy’s Mini Reviews and Recommendations.
Logan
ThunderCats #1 (Dynamite) – Drew Moss‘ art has some of the Saturday morning cartoon dynamism especially in the fight sequences, but Declan Shalvey‘s script and characterization has the feel of action figures in the toy box getting slung around. This comic doesn’t transcend its 80s toy commercial roots and is filled with cliches, one note villains, and the laziest of cliffhangers. Overall: 5.0 Verdict: Pass
Kneel Before Zod #2 (DC Comics) – After the imperialistic fervor of the opening installment, Kneel Before Zod #2 feels like one of those Game of Thrones episodes where old guys stand around and move pieces on the board. However, Ursa gets some strong character development punctuated by a double page spread of a backhand slap from Dan McDaid. In the second half of the comic, she’s Lady MacBeth in Kryptonian garb, and the conflict between her and Zod is immensely more interesting than the upcoming war between the Khunds and New Kandorian. Joe Casey writes her in a fierce, biting manner while let the plot wheels spin a little bit, and a potential key supporting character is sent off to another title. There’s less realpolitik and more mustache swirling in Kneel Before Zod #2, but Zod still comes across as Dick Cheney with superpowers, especially in the opening torture scene. I still love how McDaid draws technology and fight scenes, but this issue definitely is a slight dip in quality while still having potential for something engaging. Overall: 6.9 Verdict: Read (I purchased a copy)
Brett
Wolverine: Madripoor Knights #1 (Marvel) – Chris Claremont returns to Wolverine with this retro tale that has the mutant killing machine teaming up with some other heroes in Madripoor. The comic has a bit of a throwback feel to it and there’s more than enough references to other events as to when this takes place to put it in continuity but unless you’re really nostalgic, the comic is amusing but not really engaging. Overall: 7.0 Verdict: Read
Pine and Merrimac #2 (BOOM! Studios) – The dynamic between the two leads is what really makes this series entertaining as they explore the mysterious island where there’s clearly illegal things going on. It’s all a little over the top in events, but that’s the type of story this is. Teasing of political corruption, secret cults, lots of guns, this is popcorn action, just enjoy the ride. Overall: 7.5 Verdict: Read
Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees #3 (IDW Publishing) – With paranoia and fear gripping the town, Sam has ideas as to who the serial killer is and begins the investigation. It leads down a rabbit hole that’s… really weird and very sad. Also, anyone else noticing these animals are eating other animals? What’s up with that!? If you’re into stories like Silence of the Lambs, don’t miss this! Overall: 8.25 Verdict: Buy
Kneel Before Zod #2 (DC Comics) – I have to agree with Logan above. The issue is a step back and leans heavy into the drama between Zod and Ursa, showing maybe Ursa is the more brutal of the two? It has potential but we’ll have to wait and see if that pans out. Overall: 6.95 Verdict: Read
