COMICS
7-16-10: Review--The Calling: Cthulhu Chrinicles #1 (BOOM!)
by Brian LeTendre
Issue #1 of "The Calling: Cthulhu Chronicles" may not be horror-filled, but writers Michael Alan nelson and Johanna Stokes have laid the groundwork for a good supernatural mystery, one that I’ll be following for a least a few more issues.
The there are three sub-plots running through the issue, but they all revolve around a mysterious incident where almost 2,000 people drop dead at the same time aboard a massive cruise liner. One sub-plot involves a boy who was aboard the cruise liner, and is kidnapped by what appear to be Cthulhu cultists. Another sub-plot involves a man whose sister has a psychotic break and predicts the events aboard the cruise liner, and the third one deals with the wife of a man who died aboard the ship. Nelson and Tokes do a nice job of connecting these threads by the end of the first issue, while also leaving a ton of questions. Christopher Possenti (artist) and Stephen Downer (colorist) do a nice job with the art, and it fits with the tone of the story.
Overall, the first issue of “The Calling: Cthulhu Chronicles” is promising, and it’s nice to see a more modern take on Lovecraftian themes for a change.
4 out of 5 Cloaked Strangers In Pictures
Issue #1 of "The Calling: Cthulhu Chronicles" may not be horror-filled, but writers Michael Alan nelson and Johanna Stokes have laid the groundwork for a good supernatural mystery, one that I’ll be following for a least a few more issues.
The there are three sub-plots running through the issue, but they all revolve around a mysterious incident where almost 2,000 people drop dead at the same time aboard a massive cruise liner. One sub-plot involves a boy who was aboard the cruise liner, and is kidnapped by what appear to be Cthulhu cultists. Another sub-plot involves a man whose sister has a psychotic break and predicts the events aboard the cruise liner, and the third one deals with the wife of a man who died aboard the ship. Nelson and Tokes do a nice job of connecting these threads by the end of the first issue, while also leaving a ton of questions. Christopher Possenti (artist) and Stephen Downer (colorist) do a nice job with the art, and it fits with the tone of the story.
Overall, the first issue of “The Calling: Cthulhu Chronicles” is promising, and it’s nice to see a more modern take on Lovecraftian themes for a change.
4 out of 5 Cloaked Strangers In Pictures
7-10-10: Silber Minicomics Reviews--July 2010
by Brian LeTendre
I've talked before about some of the really cool minicomics that Silber Media has been putting out. "Lost Kisses," "Just a Man" and "XO" are a few of my favorites from what I've read so far. The most recent batch I received had three new titles: "Mecha," "Cops & Crooks," "Veggie Dog Saturn."
“Mecha” was written by Brian John Mitchell with art by Johnny Hoang, and it takes place on what seems to be a future eartch, where Martians have invaded and subjugated the human race. The protagonist is a man who was raised as a slave, forced to fight for the amusement of the martians. He escapes one day, and becomes the leader of a resistance movement. Just when you think this story is going to be a war story though, Mitchell takes it to a much more personal place. The resistance leader falls in love with a woman and leaves the battlefield for a somewhat normal life. Unfortaunately for the new couple, things don't work out as planned, but it's not for the reasons you might assume.
"Cops & Crooks" #1 is also written by Mitchell, but features Jason Young and Eric Shonborn on art. It's a flip book that tells a tale from two very different perspectives. On one side is a young boy who grows up to become like his dad, after his fatcher was killed in the line of duty. The boy was raised aorund the foce, and grew up with an idealisitc view of protecting and serving. On the other side is a boy who gre up to be a criminal, as his father was killed by the police when he was a child. Overall it's a simple story, but the contrasting art styles of Young and Shonborn helps emphasize the differences in the experiences of the two boys, even though they are connected by a similar event.
My favorite book of the bunch is "Veggie Dog Saturn" #4, which is written and drawn by Jason Young, one of the artitsts on "Cops & Crooks." This book is actually published by Buyer Beware Comics, and is larger in size than the usual matchbook-sized minicomics Silber puts out. The book is a collection of autobiographical experiences from Jason Young's childhood. There's some humorous stories about Jason's first tattoo, trading for toys and comics, and his first swimsuit magazine. The standout tale for me though was one called Regina. It's a sad, powerful story about a young African-American girl who Jason was friends with when he was a child. She and her mother stopped visiting Jason's house for some reason, and he lsot touch with the girl, who he missed quite a bit. Years later he realized that among the knick knacks his mother had displayed around the house was a racist figurine that she had received as a child and kept amongst her other collectibles. Jason's realization of what it must have been like for his friend and her mother to see the figurine, and his thoughts about how things might have ended differently make this story resonate, and it definitely makes this issue worth reading.
As I've said before, Silber (and now Buyer Beware) is putting out soem great stuff that is a nice alternative to what you might be picking up at comic shops each week. You can find out more about Silber's minicomics at www.silbermedia.com/comics, and check out more Veggie Dog Saturn at www.buyerbeware.gettertrash.net.
I've talked before about some of the really cool minicomics that Silber Media has been putting out. "Lost Kisses," "Just a Man" and "XO" are a few of my favorites from what I've read so far. The most recent batch I received had three new titles: "Mecha," "Cops & Crooks," "Veggie Dog Saturn."
“Mecha” was written by Brian John Mitchell with art by Johnny Hoang, and it takes place on what seems to be a future eartch, where Martians have invaded and subjugated the human race. The protagonist is a man who was raised as a slave, forced to fight for the amusement of the martians. He escapes one day, and becomes the leader of a resistance movement. Just when you think this story is going to be a war story though, Mitchell takes it to a much more personal place. The resistance leader falls in love with a woman and leaves the battlefield for a somewhat normal life. Unfortaunately for the new couple, things don't work out as planned, but it's not for the reasons you might assume.
"Cops & Crooks" #1 is also written by Mitchell, but features Jason Young and Eric Shonborn on art. It's a flip book that tells a tale from two very different perspectives. On one side is a young boy who grows up to become like his dad, after his fatcher was killed in the line of duty. The boy was raised aorund the foce, and grew up with an idealisitc view of protecting and serving. On the other side is a boy who gre up to be a criminal, as his father was killed by the police when he was a child. Overall it's a simple story, but the contrasting art styles of Young and Shonborn helps emphasize the differences in the experiences of the two boys, even though they are connected by a similar event.
My favorite book of the bunch is "Veggie Dog Saturn" #4, which is written and drawn by Jason Young, one of the artitsts on "Cops & Crooks." This book is actually published by Buyer Beware Comics, and is larger in size than the usual matchbook-sized minicomics Silber puts out. The book is a collection of autobiographical experiences from Jason Young's childhood. There's some humorous stories about Jason's first tattoo, trading for toys and comics, and his first swimsuit magazine. The standout tale for me though was one called Regina. It's a sad, powerful story about a young African-American girl who Jason was friends with when he was a child. She and her mother stopped visiting Jason's house for some reason, and he lsot touch with the girl, who he missed quite a bit. Years later he realized that among the knick knacks his mother had displayed around the house was a racist figurine that she had received as a child and kept amongst her other collectibles. Jason's realization of what it must have been like for his friend and her mother to see the figurine, and his thoughts about how things might have ended differently make this story resonate, and it definitely makes this issue worth reading.
As I've said before, Silber (and now Buyer Beware) is putting out soem great stuff that is a nice alternative to what you might be picking up at comic shops each week. You can find out more about Silber's minicomics at www.silbermedia.com/comics, and check out more Veggie Dog Saturn at www.buyerbeware.gettertrash.net.
7-8-10: Mickey Mouse And The World To Come Preview (BOOM Kids!)
7-4-10: Hybrid Bastards Preview (Archaia)
6-27-10: Jonah Hex - No Way Home (DC)
This is a great time to be a Jonah Hex fan.
Despite your thoughts (or reviews) on the recent movie, at least someone made one! Hollywood thought enough of my favorite character to make a movie and for that I’m very grateful. On the comic side Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray are month after month, writing the definitive Jonah Hex run. Each issue is better than the previous and chronicled by different artists who add their style and flair while keeping it all about the character. So how do we top all this? By bringing in an artist who has a little history with ‘Jonah Hex’!
‘No Way Back’ is a full blown, take no prisoners book. It’s violent, disturbing and has some moments that you may just want to look away from. But that is the world of Jonah Hex. Here Jonah is confronted with his childhood; a hellish series of events that seem to do much to explain why he is the way he is. He finds that his mother who abandoned him is still alive and wanted for murder. But this is just a set up to get Hex involved and bring him out into the open. As he digs deeper into the situation, he finds out that he has a half brother who is the opposite of him. When they meet, Jonah sees a man of faith, family, and hope. He is the preacher / sheriff of a town with no alcohol, guns, gambling or prostitutes. Interesting to note is as Jonah wears the ‘Mark of the Demon’ scar on his face, his brother has a full tattoo on his chest of Jesus on the cross. Who got the worst of this deal? The book ends with a showdown between Hex and his longtime nemesis El Papagayo who is looking to settle a score because of Jonah’s father. Join the club!
The visuals in this book were done by Tony DeZuniga who is none other than the co - creator of Jonah Hex. As a young Hex fan, it was Tony’s expressive lines and panel lay outs in Weird Western Tales that helped shape my love of the character today. Now almost in his 70’s his art packs the same emotional punch it did back then.
I know I sound like a paid employee of Gray / Palmiotti Incorporated, but how do they keep doing this? This book is yet another reason they are the best writers in comics today. Whatever they do is gold and I’m so grateful they’re on Jonah Hex doing the best work of their careers!
The biggest compliment I can give this book is finding it worth the price I paid. This is a hardcover book so it has a bit of a price tag on it ($19.99 US, $23.99 CAN). After reading this book I had to take some time and collect myself. By far the most brutal Hex comic I ever read and there are some images that will take a long time to shake, but this is the man’s life! He didn’t choose this path as you’ll read.
Easily one of the best Jonah Hex tales you’ll read. But what would you expect from my Jonah Hex creative dream team!
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 hot spring ambushes!
Despite your thoughts (or reviews) on the recent movie, at least someone made one! Hollywood thought enough of my favorite character to make a movie and for that I’m very grateful. On the comic side Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray are month after month, writing the definitive Jonah Hex run. Each issue is better than the previous and chronicled by different artists who add their style and flair while keeping it all about the character. So how do we top all this? By bringing in an artist who has a little history with ‘Jonah Hex’!
‘No Way Back’ is a full blown, take no prisoners book. It’s violent, disturbing and has some moments that you may just want to look away from. But that is the world of Jonah Hex. Here Jonah is confronted with his childhood; a hellish series of events that seem to do much to explain why he is the way he is. He finds that his mother who abandoned him is still alive and wanted for murder. But this is just a set up to get Hex involved and bring him out into the open. As he digs deeper into the situation, he finds out that he has a half brother who is the opposite of him. When they meet, Jonah sees a man of faith, family, and hope. He is the preacher / sheriff of a town with no alcohol, guns, gambling or prostitutes. Interesting to note is as Jonah wears the ‘Mark of the Demon’ scar on his face, his brother has a full tattoo on his chest of Jesus on the cross. Who got the worst of this deal? The book ends with a showdown between Hex and his longtime nemesis El Papagayo who is looking to settle a score because of Jonah’s father. Join the club!
The visuals in this book were done by Tony DeZuniga who is none other than the co - creator of Jonah Hex. As a young Hex fan, it was Tony’s expressive lines and panel lay outs in Weird Western Tales that helped shape my love of the character today. Now almost in his 70’s his art packs the same emotional punch it did back then.
I know I sound like a paid employee of Gray / Palmiotti Incorporated, but how do they keep doing this? This book is yet another reason they are the best writers in comics today. Whatever they do is gold and I’m so grateful they’re on Jonah Hex doing the best work of their careers!
The biggest compliment I can give this book is finding it worth the price I paid. This is a hardcover book so it has a bit of a price tag on it ($19.99 US, $23.99 CAN). After reading this book I had to take some time and collect myself. By far the most brutal Hex comic I ever read and there are some images that will take a long time to shake, but this is the man’s life! He didn’t choose this path as you’ll read.
Easily one of the best Jonah Hex tales you’ll read. But what would you expect from my Jonah Hex creative dream team!
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 hot spring ambushes!
6-24-10: Review--Power Girl #13 (DC)
by Brian LeTendre
It's no secret that both Matt and I are huge fans of Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray and Amanda Conner. Their run on "Power Girl" was fantastic and returned the character to the forefront of the DCU, in my humble opinion. So when it was announced that Judd Winick and Sami Basri would be replacing P/G/C as the creative team on the book, I, like many others, was very disappointed. Still, I was willing to give the new team a shot, and I'm glad I did. "Power Girl" #13 does an admirable job of picking up where the last team left off, as well as taking the series in a new direction.
On the story front, Winick kicks off brand new storylines for Power Girl's superhero and civilian identities. Maxwell Lord is back, and Power Girl gets called in along with a bunch of JSA and JLA heroes to find him. After stopping Booster Gold from inadvertently creating an international incident, Power Girl tracks down a lead on Max Lord that runs her right into a group of OMACs. Meanwhile, in her civilian life, Kara finds out one of her employees has cleaned her out financially, putting her company Starrware Industries into dire straits. Winick does a nice job of bouncing between these two storylines throughout the issue. I won't spoil what the OMACs and Lord are up to, but it seems like a pretty big deal to me.
Sami Basri's art style is much subtler and lighter than Amanda Connor's and it will take me a bit to get used to. Conner's work on "Power Girl" would jump off of every page at you--Basri's style in issue #12 flows along nicely with the story, but lacks the punch I was accustomed to.
Overall though, Winick and Basri took on an almost impossible task, and for the most part succeeded. "Power Girl" #13 is worth checking out, and I'll be giving the new creative team at least a few more issues to make a lasting impression on me.
3.5 out of 5 You Just Got OMAC'eds
It's no secret that both Matt and I are huge fans of Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray and Amanda Conner. Their run on "Power Girl" was fantastic and returned the character to the forefront of the DCU, in my humble opinion. So when it was announced that Judd Winick and Sami Basri would be replacing P/G/C as the creative team on the book, I, like many others, was very disappointed. Still, I was willing to give the new team a shot, and I'm glad I did. "Power Girl" #13 does an admirable job of picking up where the last team left off, as well as taking the series in a new direction.
On the story front, Winick kicks off brand new storylines for Power Girl's superhero and civilian identities. Maxwell Lord is back, and Power Girl gets called in along with a bunch of JSA and JLA heroes to find him. After stopping Booster Gold from inadvertently creating an international incident, Power Girl tracks down a lead on Max Lord that runs her right into a group of OMACs. Meanwhile, in her civilian life, Kara finds out one of her employees has cleaned her out financially, putting her company Starrware Industries into dire straits. Winick does a nice job of bouncing between these two storylines throughout the issue. I won't spoil what the OMACs and Lord are up to, but it seems like a pretty big deal to me.
Sami Basri's art style is much subtler and lighter than Amanda Connor's and it will take me a bit to get used to. Conner's work on "Power Girl" would jump off of every page at you--Basri's style in issue #12 flows along nicely with the story, but lacks the punch I was accustomed to.
Overall though, Winick and Basri took on an almost impossible task, and for the most part succeeded. "Power Girl" #13 is worth checking out, and I'll be giving the new creative team at least a few more issues to make a lasting impression on me.
3.5 out of 5 You Just Got OMAC'eds
6-15-10: Review--Captain America # 606 (Marvel Comics)
by Matman
Since Captain America # 25 (the death of Cap issue), Ed Brubaker has done what many thought impossible! He kept the title not only afloat without the lead character but made it interesting and a whole lot of fun. By building up the supporting cast, he gave us a ‘5 out of 5’ each month. Forgetting the regrettable and schedule challenged ‘Return of Steve Rogers’ mini, let’s get back to the main book and the lives of Steve and Bucky!
Captain America # 606 sees the return of Baron Zemo; a classic Cap villain that, like the Red Skull has so much heritage and needs to be around. Zemo is visiting one of the Thunderbolts storage facilities and runs into a creepy and mysterious guy called the Ghost. He tells him the shocking news that the new Cap is the old Bucky. This of course doesn’t set well with him. After all, he always has the happy memory that his father (the original Baron Zemo) killed him and now he doesn’t have that. Next we see Falcon and Bucky in a classic battle with some baddies. But Falcon gets a little worried that Bucky is fighting a little too close to the edge and reckless. It may be time for Steve Rogers to get involved! This and the return in the final pages of ….
No time for spoilers!
Once again Ed Brubaker proves why he is one of the top five writers in comics today and the best Captain America scribe…EVER! Yup, I just said that! Ed keeps the action rolling and his stories have always read like TV shows. He is a master at making you really look forward to the next issue with great cliffhangers. The art by Butch Guice is solid and a good fit following the runs of Steve Epting and Luke Ross. In this particular issue Butch has a lot of retro moments that I’m not sure are deliberate. His fight scenes and panel layouts are very reminiscent of classic Sal Buscema from the early 1970’s. And without the incredible lettering by Joe Caramagna we would have nothing to read, just great pictures.
For years it wasn’t cool to be a Captain America fan, but for the past few years, it has been an incredible read. Captain America # 606 is the start of a two issue story called ‘No Escape’ and if you haven’t been reading Cap or just want to see what the hype has all been about, give it a try. Marvel has been hyping up their Heroic Age event and with books like this, the tag fits.
Matman rating – 5 out of 5 angry Zemo!
6-9-10: Review--Secret Avengers # 1 (Marvel)
by Matman
There was a time when owning a copy of Avengers # 1 meant something.
Following relaunches and new creative teams over and over, the ‘mighty’ Avengers lost their charm and mystique! This month, not only has Marvel relaunched The Avengers, but has also pushed out about a thousand new Avengers books. Prime, Academy, Secret, Happy, New, (I think I made some of those up) gave fans not only choices, but a drain on the comic budget.
The book I was most excited about was Secret Avengers. The Avengers have always been a high profile team, so the fact that there is a ‘secret ops’ version was very intriguing. Within the first few pages we see Valkyrie and Black Widow lurking in the shadows trying not to get caught. As the job goes wrong, Steve Rogers comes in guns-a-blazing and saves the day. On the other side of town Ant Man and Moon Knight are on their own mission. Throw in War Machine, Beast, Nova and Sharon Carter and you have an eclectic team that has some serious character.
At the helm is writer Ed Brubaker who needs no introduction or career retrospective. He can write any character and creates ‘no return’ situations that keep you guessing the whole time. The art by Mike Deodato is very un Avengers like, but in this book, works brilliantly. This is a creative team that if given time, can create a brilliant book, not just a strong Avengers comic. The use of Steve Rogers as the new Nick Fury is a brilliant idea, but what about the old Nick Fury? Sorry no spoilers!
If you need to be financially choosy during ‘The Heroic Age’, than I strongly recommend this book. It’s a departure from the super team books and contains characters that all have issues. Many are not team players and that could be interesting as the series progresses. Let the big team save the world from Kang, Ultron and (fill in your favorite Avengers bad guy), let the Secret Avengers do their business in the dark.
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 smootchie kissy scenes
There was a time when owning a copy of Avengers # 1 meant something.
Following relaunches and new creative teams over and over, the ‘mighty’ Avengers lost their charm and mystique! This month, not only has Marvel relaunched The Avengers, but has also pushed out about a thousand new Avengers books. Prime, Academy, Secret, Happy, New, (I think I made some of those up) gave fans not only choices, but a drain on the comic budget.
The book I was most excited about was Secret Avengers. The Avengers have always been a high profile team, so the fact that there is a ‘secret ops’ version was very intriguing. Within the first few pages we see Valkyrie and Black Widow lurking in the shadows trying not to get caught. As the job goes wrong, Steve Rogers comes in guns-a-blazing and saves the day. On the other side of town Ant Man and Moon Knight are on their own mission. Throw in War Machine, Beast, Nova and Sharon Carter and you have an eclectic team that has some serious character.
At the helm is writer Ed Brubaker who needs no introduction or career retrospective. He can write any character and creates ‘no return’ situations that keep you guessing the whole time. The art by Mike Deodato is very un Avengers like, but in this book, works brilliantly. This is a creative team that if given time, can create a brilliant book, not just a strong Avengers comic. The use of Steve Rogers as the new Nick Fury is a brilliant idea, but what about the old Nick Fury? Sorry no spoilers!
If you need to be financially choosy during ‘The Heroic Age’, than I strongly recommend this book. It’s a departure from the super team books and contains characters that all have issues. Many are not team players and that could be interesting as the series progresses. Let the big team save the world from Kang, Ultron and (fill in your favorite Avengers bad guy), let the Secret Avengers do their business in the dark.
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 smootchie kissy scenes
5-13-10: Review--The Killer: Modus Vivendi #1 (Archaia)
by Brian LeTendre
For those who aren’t familiar with “the Killer,” it’s a French comic that centers on an assassin for hire. The book follows the main character through the jobs he does, and delves into the life he is forced to lead because of his work, as well as how his past has a way of catching up with him. Archaia brought the original series over and translated it, releasing two volumes last year that comprised the ten issues of the original story arc. This week the first issue of the second arc entitled “modus Vivendi” arrived in stores, and it serves as a great jumping on point for those who might be new to this series.
Issue #1 starts with The Killer explaining that he’s taken four years off from killing for hire, but is back in business because he was jonesing for some action. He takes a series of jobs in near Venezuela, where he’d been enjoying his time off. After taking out the first two of his three targets with no problem, The Killer balks when he sees the third—a nun who spends all of her time working with the poor and giving to others. He decides to dig a little further into the details of the job and finds there is a connection between all three targets. He digs a little further and fins out the job has much bigger implications than he could have imagined, and now he has to choose between answering for a job he didn’t finish or killing someone akin to Mother Theresa.
This book has a lot going for it, and everything starts with the well-paced story by writer Matz. He does a great job of bringing new readers in and updating old readers within a couple of pages. The rest of the story unfurls itself like a well-crafted James Bond tale. The art by Luc Jacamon really brings across the feel of the locations in Mexico and Venezuela the story takes place in. He’s got a subtle style that is very even-keeled, so when he punctuates an action scene, you really feel it.
Issue #1 of “The Killer: Modus Vivendi” is a great start to the new story arc, as well as a perfect introduction for new readers. Highly recommended.
4.5 out of 5 Trigger Fingers
For those who aren’t familiar with “the Killer,” it’s a French comic that centers on an assassin for hire. The book follows the main character through the jobs he does, and delves into the life he is forced to lead because of his work, as well as how his past has a way of catching up with him. Archaia brought the original series over and translated it, releasing two volumes last year that comprised the ten issues of the original story arc. This week the first issue of the second arc entitled “modus Vivendi” arrived in stores, and it serves as a great jumping on point for those who might be new to this series.
Issue #1 starts with The Killer explaining that he’s taken four years off from killing for hire, but is back in business because he was jonesing for some action. He takes a series of jobs in near Venezuela, where he’d been enjoying his time off. After taking out the first two of his three targets with no problem, The Killer balks when he sees the third—a nun who spends all of her time working with the poor and giving to others. He decides to dig a little further into the details of the job and finds there is a connection between all three targets. He digs a little further and fins out the job has much bigger implications than he could have imagined, and now he has to choose between answering for a job he didn’t finish or killing someone akin to Mother Theresa.
This book has a lot going for it, and everything starts with the well-paced story by writer Matz. He does a great job of bringing new readers in and updating old readers within a couple of pages. The rest of the story unfurls itself like a well-crafted James Bond tale. The art by Luc Jacamon really brings across the feel of the locations in Mexico and Venezuela the story takes place in. He’s got a subtle style that is very even-keeled, so when he punctuates an action scene, you really feel it.
Issue #1 of “The Killer: Modus Vivendi” is a great start to the new story arc, as well as a perfect introduction for new readers. Highly recommended.
4.5 out of 5 Trigger Fingers
4-29-10: What Does The Future Hold For The Marvel Cosmic Universe?
by Brian LeTendre
Since the “Drax the Destroyer” miniseries in 2005, fans of Marvel’s Cosmic Universe (MCU) have enjoyed an absolute renaissance. Dan Abnett, Andy Lanning and Bill Rosemann not only brought the MCU back from obscurity, they made it the most compelling part of the Marvel universe for the past five years. Annihilation, Conquest, War of Kings and now Realm of Kings have pretty much surpassed any of the vents that have happened back on earth during that time. They’ve taken characters like Star-Lord, Gladiator and Ronan the Accuser and made them awesome. Heck, they even made Blastaar seem pretty cool.
As the summer months approach, the MCU is gearing up for another big event: “The Thanos Imperative.” This time however, there’s a bit of uncertainty that’s coming along with it. The future of the MCU just might depend on how well this event sells.
You might have missed it, but DnA and Rosemann confirmed that both “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Nova” will be going on ‘hiatus’ for the duration of “The Thanos Imperative.” Those who read Nova #36 and “GotG” #25 saw ‘The End’ on the last page of both of those issues, and they both certainly felt like last issues to me. While sales of both “Nova” and “GotG” haven’t been blockbuster, they’ve both been in the top 100 on a fairly consistent basis. Last month, “GotG” #24 placed 96th on the list with 21,643 sold, and “Nova” #35 was 98th with 21,407 sold. Just to put it in perspective, last month both outsold “GI Joe,” “Punisher Max,” “Haunt,” “Star Wars Legacy,” “Outsiders” and “Spawn,” to name just a few.
So what gives? Is Marvel just preparing those series for a relaunch following “The Thanos Imperative,” is have we really seen that last of those two titles? More likely, Marvel is waiting to see how “The Thanos Imperative” sells before they make their next move. That series will feature Nova and Star-Lord pretty heavily, as well as a bunch of other major players including Quasar, Silver Surfer, Gladiator, Medusa, Magus, and of course, Thanos. It will be a showcase of cosmic characters, and will likely serve as a barometer for just how popular the MCU is.
Personally, I doubt that Marvel is planning to close up shop on the MCU even if “The Thanos Imperative” doesn’t do huge numbers. We’ve seen ads that Nova is becoming a Secret Avenger, so maybe that just means he’ll be transitioning from his own book into that one. That combined with the shake-ups in the “GotG” roster over the last several months may just mean that we’ll see a new title or two replacing “Nova” and “GotG” coming out of “The Thanos Imperative.” Perhaps a new Silver Surfer ongoing? Or maybe a new cosmic team book featuring some faces old and new? Who’s to say, but I think we’ll have at least one cosmic title when it’s all said and done.
What I’d absolutely love to see is a monthly anthology of cosmic stories featuring characters from the MCU. Call it “Tales of the Marvel Cosmos” or something. Feature one main story with a major character or team (Surfer, GotG) and then a few back-ups with more obscure characters. It would be a great way to highlight all corners of the MCU, and people would only have to worry about picking up one book a month. I’d easily pay $3.99 for that (maybe even $4.99 if it was double-sized).
So what do you think? Are “Nova” and “GotG” gone for good? What would you like to see coming out of “The Thanos Imperative”? Head over to the SI forum and discuss!
Since the “Drax the Destroyer” miniseries in 2005, fans of Marvel’s Cosmic Universe (MCU) have enjoyed an absolute renaissance. Dan Abnett, Andy Lanning and Bill Rosemann not only brought the MCU back from obscurity, they made it the most compelling part of the Marvel universe for the past five years. Annihilation, Conquest, War of Kings and now Realm of Kings have pretty much surpassed any of the vents that have happened back on earth during that time. They’ve taken characters like Star-Lord, Gladiator and Ronan the Accuser and made them awesome. Heck, they even made Blastaar seem pretty cool.
As the summer months approach, the MCU is gearing up for another big event: “The Thanos Imperative.” This time however, there’s a bit of uncertainty that’s coming along with it. The future of the MCU just might depend on how well this event sells.
You might have missed it, but DnA and Rosemann confirmed that both “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Nova” will be going on ‘hiatus’ for the duration of “The Thanos Imperative.” Those who read Nova #36 and “GotG” #25 saw ‘The End’ on the last page of both of those issues, and they both certainly felt like last issues to me. While sales of both “Nova” and “GotG” haven’t been blockbuster, they’ve both been in the top 100 on a fairly consistent basis. Last month, “GotG” #24 placed 96th on the list with 21,643 sold, and “Nova” #35 was 98th with 21,407 sold. Just to put it in perspective, last month both outsold “GI Joe,” “Punisher Max,” “Haunt,” “Star Wars Legacy,” “Outsiders” and “Spawn,” to name just a few.
So what gives? Is Marvel just preparing those series for a relaunch following “The Thanos Imperative,” is have we really seen that last of those two titles? More likely, Marvel is waiting to see how “The Thanos Imperative” sells before they make their next move. That series will feature Nova and Star-Lord pretty heavily, as well as a bunch of other major players including Quasar, Silver Surfer, Gladiator, Medusa, Magus, and of course, Thanos. It will be a showcase of cosmic characters, and will likely serve as a barometer for just how popular the MCU is.
Personally, I doubt that Marvel is planning to close up shop on the MCU even if “The Thanos Imperative” doesn’t do huge numbers. We’ve seen ads that Nova is becoming a Secret Avenger, so maybe that just means he’ll be transitioning from his own book into that one. That combined with the shake-ups in the “GotG” roster over the last several months may just mean that we’ll see a new title or two replacing “Nova” and “GotG” coming out of “The Thanos Imperative.” Perhaps a new Silver Surfer ongoing? Or maybe a new cosmic team book featuring some faces old and new? Who’s to say, but I think we’ll have at least one cosmic title when it’s all said and done.
What I’d absolutely love to see is a monthly anthology of cosmic stories featuring characters from the MCU. Call it “Tales of the Marvel Cosmos” or something. Feature one main story with a major character or team (Surfer, GotG) and then a few back-ups with more obscure characters. It would be a great way to highlight all corners of the MCU, and people would only have to worry about picking up one book a month. I’d easily pay $3.99 for that (maybe even $4.99 if it was double-sized).
So what do you think? Are “Nova” and “GotG” gone for good? What would you like to see coming out of “The Thanos Imperative”? Head over to the SI forum and discuss!
4-20-10: Review--Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird
The mind of Tony Millionaire is a funny, wacky and kinda disturbing place, but man do I Iove it! From his brilliant version of Sock Monkey to his side splitting off humor strip Maakees, Tony has a warped look at life. Again… I love it! Uncle Gabby, Drinky The Crow and Sock Monkey are some of the greatest characters I have ever read. Add to this his latest character, Billy Hazelnuts.
‘Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird’ is a fun loving tale about a gargoyle looking creature created out of cooking ingredients. He lives on a farm with a young scientist naked Becky who is doing her best to keep the peace between Billy and all the animals.
We start the story with Billy rounding up cows by throwing them into the barn. Then the battle moves to a five page battle with a tiger cat. After he is reprimanded by Amy he storms off and witnesses a battle between the same cat and an owl. Despite Billy’s anger towards the cat he is more upset that someone else was messing with him. When he catches the owl in his nest, he punches him in the face scarring it off. But as Billy savors his victory, he soon notices an egg hatching. With the birth of a baby bird, Billy’s troubles only begin.
This is the second book starring Billy Hazelnuts and is an incredible read! I let my daughters (ages 14 and 11) read it and they loved it. The cool thing is both of them loved it for different reasons but agreed it was weird. The panels and layouts are very unorthodox and the characters and story are weird.
Weird Is Good!
‘Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird’ is an incredible book for all ages. There is nothing else like it being published today and I think that is why it’s so special! In a time when comic fans are counting every penny and scrutinizing every purchase, rest assured this book is worth every penny.
‘Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird’ is published by Fantagraphics Books and is a deluxe square bound book (114 pages) for $19.99.
Matman Rating – 5 out of 5 Owl Punches!
‘Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird’ is a fun loving tale about a gargoyle looking creature created out of cooking ingredients. He lives on a farm with a young scientist naked Becky who is doing her best to keep the peace between Billy and all the animals.
We start the story with Billy rounding up cows by throwing them into the barn. Then the battle moves to a five page battle with a tiger cat. After he is reprimanded by Amy he storms off and witnesses a battle between the same cat and an owl. Despite Billy’s anger towards the cat he is more upset that someone else was messing with him. When he catches the owl in his nest, he punches him in the face scarring it off. But as Billy savors his victory, he soon notices an egg hatching. With the birth of a baby bird, Billy’s troubles only begin.
This is the second book starring Billy Hazelnuts and is an incredible read! I let my daughters (ages 14 and 11) read it and they loved it. The cool thing is both of them loved it for different reasons but agreed it was weird. The panels and layouts are very unorthodox and the characters and story are weird.
Weird Is Good!
‘Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird’ is an incredible book for all ages. There is nothing else like it being published today and I think that is why it’s so special! In a time when comic fans are counting every penny and scrutinizing every purchase, rest assured this book is worth every penny.
‘Billy Hazelnuts And The Crazy Bird’ is published by Fantagraphics Books and is a deluxe square bound book (114 pages) for $19.99.
Matman Rating – 5 out of 5 Owl Punches!
4-18-10: Review--Ex Occultus: Seal of Solomon
by Brian LeTendre
"Ex Occultus: Seal of Solomon" sees arcane adventurers Francis Wakefield and his sidekick Hollander traveling to Bulgaria, circa 1874. They meet a man named Marko Savanovic, who hires them to track down a ring that was believed to belong to King Solomon, and which possesses the ability to control demons (for those that know how to wield it). Wakefield and Hollander track down the antiques dealer that is currently in possession of the ring, and it seems that he’s begun to tap into the ring’s power. They have to contain the situation, try to get the ring, and then figure out what to do with it.
This series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Writer Robert James Russell combines the occult lore, relic hunting and monster fighting aspects of the book well.
The fact that the "Seal of Solomon" is taken directly from Christian legends lends a feel of authenticity to the book. Artist James Emmet captures the dark tone of the story, and his use of color in this issue helps punctuate certain parts of the action and the world.
"Seal of Solomon" is a great "one and done" story, and another solid chapter in the "Ex Occultus" series.
4 out of 5 Magic Rings
You can get "Ex Occultus: Seal of Solomon" for a mere $1.00 over on Drive Thru Comics right now, and head over to www.whoissaintjames.com to stay up to date on all of the saint James projects. Fans of "Ex Occultus" will also enjoy “Wakefield’s Journal,” a series of bite-size tales starring the characters from Ex-Occultus that is available on Drive Thru and the Saint James site for free.
"Ex Occultus: Seal of Solomon" sees arcane adventurers Francis Wakefield and his sidekick Hollander traveling to Bulgaria, circa 1874. They meet a man named Marko Savanovic, who hires them to track down a ring that was believed to belong to King Solomon, and which possesses the ability to control demons (for those that know how to wield it). Wakefield and Hollander track down the antiques dealer that is currently in possession of the ring, and it seems that he’s begun to tap into the ring’s power. They have to contain the situation, try to get the ring, and then figure out what to do with it.
This series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Writer Robert James Russell combines the occult lore, relic hunting and monster fighting aspects of the book well.
The fact that the "Seal of Solomon" is taken directly from Christian legends lends a feel of authenticity to the book. Artist James Emmet captures the dark tone of the story, and his use of color in this issue helps punctuate certain parts of the action and the world.
"Seal of Solomon" is a great "one and done" story, and another solid chapter in the "Ex Occultus" series.
4 out of 5 Magic Rings
You can get "Ex Occultus: Seal of Solomon" for a mere $1.00 over on Drive Thru Comics right now, and head over to www.whoissaintjames.com to stay up to date on all of the saint James projects. Fans of "Ex Occultus" will also enjoy “Wakefield’s Journal,” a series of bite-size tales starring the characters from Ex-Occultus that is available on Drive Thru and the Saint James site for free.
4-11-10: Review--The Waking #2
by Brian LeTendre
Raven Gregory’s “The Waking” feels like an episode of “Law and Order” mixed with a Romero movie. And I mean that in a good way. Issue #1 ended with a dead man walking away from the morgue, and issue #2 peels away another layer of the onion. It seems that the dead are coming back to get revenge on the people responsible for their deaths.
“The Waking” is told from a few different perspectives. There are two pairs of detectives that are investigating unrelated deaths, however that fact that the victims are coming back to life connects the two cases. There’s also a father who is trying to deal with his resurrected daughter, who is compelled to seek out the one who killed her. As the reader, we are being shown how all of these pieces connect, but the fun is seeing the different parties start to connect the dots.
Vic Drujiniu’s art is a great compliment to Raven Gregory’s story here—it’s not over the top in grotesqueness or gore. This isn’t a splatter tale, it’s a mystery, and the creators do a nice job of keeping the supernatural elements of the story from overpowering everything else.
I’m really enjoying this series so far, and if you’re sick of paint-by-numbers zombie tales, “The Waking” will provide a nice change of pace.
4 out of 5 What Goes Around Comes Arounds
Raven Gregory’s “The Waking” feels like an episode of “Law and Order” mixed with a Romero movie. And I mean that in a good way. Issue #1 ended with a dead man walking away from the morgue, and issue #2 peels away another layer of the onion. It seems that the dead are coming back to get revenge on the people responsible for their deaths.
“The Waking” is told from a few different perspectives. There are two pairs of detectives that are investigating unrelated deaths, however that fact that the victims are coming back to life connects the two cases. There’s also a father who is trying to deal with his resurrected daughter, who is compelled to seek out the one who killed her. As the reader, we are being shown how all of these pieces connect, but the fun is seeing the different parties start to connect the dots.
Vic Drujiniu’s art is a great compliment to Raven Gregory’s story here—it’s not over the top in grotesqueness or gore. This isn’t a splatter tale, it’s a mystery, and the creators do a nice job of keeping the supernatural elements of the story from overpowering everything else.
I’m really enjoying this series so far, and if you’re sick of paint-by-numbers zombie tales, “The Waking” will provide a nice change of pace.
4 out of 5 What Goes Around Comes Arounds
4-9-10: Review--Robot 13 #3
by Brian LeTendre
After a knock-down, drag out battle with a Phoenix in the last issue, Thirteen ends up being found unconscious by a blind man wandering the mountainside (perhaps in Peloponnese) near his home. He takes in Thirteen and helps him recover from the battle. Through their discussion, Thirteen learns a little more about himself, as the old man recounts a legend about a protector of Crete named Talos who battled giant mythical creatures many years ago. Before they can finish their conversation, they are attacked by a Cyclops who is looking for revenge against Thirteen, who he refers to as the ‘Man of Bronze.’
This series gets better with each issue, as it continues to delve deeper into Greek mythology, revealing more about Thirteen as well as the origins of the mythical creatures he battles. We now know that Echinda, the ‘Mother of All Monsters’ is hunting Thirteen, and that he is most likely the fables hero Talos that slew monsters in Crete many years ago. With those revelations come many more questions though, and it’s clear that creators Tom Hall and Daniel Bradford are just getting started with this epic tale.
The intriguing story is beautifully illustrated by Daniel Bradford, who really uses color and shadow to great effect. He’s got a great sense of scale, and the mythical beats have a real epic feel to them.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough, and I expect you’ll be hearing a lot of big things about it in 2010. Head over to www.blackliststudios.com and order the first three issues now, while you can still say you were a fan before it became the next big thing.
5 out of 5 Heroes of Crete
After a knock-down, drag out battle with a Phoenix in the last issue, Thirteen ends up being found unconscious by a blind man wandering the mountainside (perhaps in Peloponnese) near his home. He takes in Thirteen and helps him recover from the battle. Through their discussion, Thirteen learns a little more about himself, as the old man recounts a legend about a protector of Crete named Talos who battled giant mythical creatures many years ago. Before they can finish their conversation, they are attacked by a Cyclops who is looking for revenge against Thirteen, who he refers to as the ‘Man of Bronze.’
This series gets better with each issue, as it continues to delve deeper into Greek mythology, revealing more about Thirteen as well as the origins of the mythical creatures he battles. We now know that Echinda, the ‘Mother of All Monsters’ is hunting Thirteen, and that he is most likely the fables hero Talos that slew monsters in Crete many years ago. With those revelations come many more questions though, and it’s clear that creators Tom Hall and Daniel Bradford are just getting started with this epic tale.
The intriguing story is beautifully illustrated by Daniel Bradford, who really uses color and shadow to great effect. He’s got a great sense of scale, and the mythical beats have a real epic feel to them.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough, and I expect you’ll be hearing a lot of big things about it in 2010. Head over to www.blackliststudios.com and order the first three issues now, while you can still say you were a fan before it became the next big thing.
5 out of 5 Heroes of Crete
4-7-10: Review--Marvel Comics App (iPad/iPhone)
by Brian LeTendre
The highly touted iPad arrived this past week, and there were tons of applications that launched as well, most designed to take advantage of the new device. One of those apps was a Marvel Comics app that uses the ComiXology engine to power it (it’s available for the iPhone as well). The app allows readers to purchase individual comics for $1.99, and offers a whole bunch of free samples from some of their premier titles.
The app is a Marvel-branded version of the ComiXology app that debuted in July of 2009 (publishers like Moonstone, Zenescope, Image and Bluewater have been publishing digital versions of their comics through the app for some time). When you open the app it takes you to the storefront, where you can see a bunch of titles that are available. You can browse by series, creator, genre, or even by which comics are free vs. paid.
The reader itself is smooth and easy to use—individual panels are focused on, and a tap in the corner of the screen advances the reader to the next panel. If you tilt the iPhone or iPad on its side, the view will change to landscape mode. The app will save your place when you stop reading mid-issue, and it also contains a list of any comics you’ve downloaded.
So, from a technical standpoint, the app is great. Where it’s not so great however, is the pricing model and the comics you don’t have access to.
First, let’s talk pricing. Charging reader $1.99 for a digital version of Captain America #2, which came out in 2004, is ridiculous. Marvel has already made a huge profit on the print version, and the cost to digitize it is minimal. Make it $0.50 at most. If they’re going to be charging two bucks a book, then they should make new issues available on the same day they appear in stores, or at the very least, a month later, to give the retail stores a head start.
But the most glaring issue with the Digital Comics app is the fact that it does nothing for existing Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited subscribers. I pay $60 a year for Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited, and it’s a great deal. I have access to thousands of comics, which I can read on my computer. Unfortunately, most of those same comics will cost me $1.99 apiece to read on the Marvel Comics iPad/iPhone app. That’s Marvel pretty much giving the middle finger to the people who have supported their digital initiatives up to this point. I’m sure Marvel will spin this as a technological issue, or a Flash issue (because the iPad doesn’t support the format), but it comes down to money in the end. Personally, I think a solution that would work for everyone is if Marvel released an optional $10 add-on for their Digital Comics Unlimited service that allowed readers to access those comics on the iPad or iPhone. I’d pay an extra $10 a year to have that kind of access to my subscription.
So, I think the value you get out of the new Marvel Comics app for the iPhone/iPad will depend on whether or not you currently subscribe to Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited. As a current subscriber, I’m disappointed with it.
2 out of 5 Cosmic Clunkers
The highly touted iPad arrived this past week, and there were tons of applications that launched as well, most designed to take advantage of the new device. One of those apps was a Marvel Comics app that uses the ComiXology engine to power it (it’s available for the iPhone as well). The app allows readers to purchase individual comics for $1.99, and offers a whole bunch of free samples from some of their premier titles.
The app is a Marvel-branded version of the ComiXology app that debuted in July of 2009 (publishers like Moonstone, Zenescope, Image and Bluewater have been publishing digital versions of their comics through the app for some time). When you open the app it takes you to the storefront, where you can see a bunch of titles that are available. You can browse by series, creator, genre, or even by which comics are free vs. paid.
The reader itself is smooth and easy to use—individual panels are focused on, and a tap in the corner of the screen advances the reader to the next panel. If you tilt the iPhone or iPad on its side, the view will change to landscape mode. The app will save your place when you stop reading mid-issue, and it also contains a list of any comics you’ve downloaded.
So, from a technical standpoint, the app is great. Where it’s not so great however, is the pricing model and the comics you don’t have access to.
First, let’s talk pricing. Charging reader $1.99 for a digital version of Captain America #2, which came out in 2004, is ridiculous. Marvel has already made a huge profit on the print version, and the cost to digitize it is minimal. Make it $0.50 at most. If they’re going to be charging two bucks a book, then they should make new issues available on the same day they appear in stores, or at the very least, a month later, to give the retail stores a head start.
But the most glaring issue with the Digital Comics app is the fact that it does nothing for existing Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited subscribers. I pay $60 a year for Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited, and it’s a great deal. I have access to thousands of comics, which I can read on my computer. Unfortunately, most of those same comics will cost me $1.99 apiece to read on the Marvel Comics iPad/iPhone app. That’s Marvel pretty much giving the middle finger to the people who have supported their digital initiatives up to this point. I’m sure Marvel will spin this as a technological issue, or a Flash issue (because the iPad doesn’t support the format), but it comes down to money in the end. Personally, I think a solution that would work for everyone is if Marvel released an optional $10 add-on for their Digital Comics Unlimited service that allowed readers to access those comics on the iPad or iPhone. I’d pay an extra $10 a year to have that kind of access to my subscription.
So, I think the value you get out of the new Marvel Comics app for the iPhone/iPad will depend on whether or not you currently subscribe to Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited. As a current subscriber, I’m disappointed with it.
2 out of 5 Cosmic Clunkers
4-3-10: Review--Green Hornet Year One # 1 (Dynamite)
I don’t have any working knowledge of the Green Hornet! I know he had a show a long time ago and Bruce Lee was in it. Other than that… nothing! So when Dynamite Entertainment announced they would be bringing the Green Hornet back, I was interested. Dynamite has done a great job with their entire stable of books, so why not this?
Currently there are a few series going starring the emerald bug. There is the Green Hornet (written by Kevin Smith), Kato Origins, Green Hornet Strikes and the book we’ll be looking at Green Hornet Year One!
In the first issue we are there at the birth of the Hornet and his sidekick Kato. Taking place in the 1920’s and 1930’s, Year One introduces us to a young Daniel Reid and Hayashi Kato; two young boys who despite coming from different countries and lifestyles share the same dream. They both wish to become their own man and not follow with the predetermined path of their fathers. The story is written in flashbacks and bounces around, but you never once loose track of the story. And you only have to wait 8 pages for the introduction of the duo as they take on some Union thugs and do a number on them. As the story unfolds we will see how Daniel and Kato meet and then decide to take to the streets to kick butt!
The book was written by Matt Wagner who is no stranger to comics. Known mostly for his art, his storytelling and dialogue was close to perfect. The action was well scripted and the story moved at a nice pace despite the flashbacks. In fact the time bouncing in this story added to the suspense and enjoyment I had reading it.
Artist Aaron Campbell has a style very much like Michael Lark and Michael Gaydos. His work is very gritty which lends itself well to the style of storytelling. Any other artist may not have captured the feel of the story as well. And if it was someone else I may not have liked the book as much.
As usual Dynamite gives you a choice of covers. Alex Ross, Matt Wagner, John Cassaday and Stephen Segovia all contribute beautiful eye catching work, but only one was all I needed. Alex, I chose you!
So as you can imagine I loved this book! It had everything I liked in my comics and I can’t wait for the next issue. When you end the first issue with Kato joining the pre World War Two Japanese Army, what do you expect me to do?
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Union Goons
Currently there are a few series going starring the emerald bug. There is the Green Hornet (written by Kevin Smith), Kato Origins, Green Hornet Strikes and the book we’ll be looking at Green Hornet Year One!
In the first issue we are there at the birth of the Hornet and his sidekick Kato. Taking place in the 1920’s and 1930’s, Year One introduces us to a young Daniel Reid and Hayashi Kato; two young boys who despite coming from different countries and lifestyles share the same dream. They both wish to become their own man and not follow with the predetermined path of their fathers. The story is written in flashbacks and bounces around, but you never once loose track of the story. And you only have to wait 8 pages for the introduction of the duo as they take on some Union thugs and do a number on them. As the story unfolds we will see how Daniel and Kato meet and then decide to take to the streets to kick butt!
The book was written by Matt Wagner who is no stranger to comics. Known mostly for his art, his storytelling and dialogue was close to perfect. The action was well scripted and the story moved at a nice pace despite the flashbacks. In fact the time bouncing in this story added to the suspense and enjoyment I had reading it.
Artist Aaron Campbell has a style very much like Michael Lark and Michael Gaydos. His work is very gritty which lends itself well to the style of storytelling. Any other artist may not have captured the feel of the story as well. And if it was someone else I may not have liked the book as much.
As usual Dynamite gives you a choice of covers. Alex Ross, Matt Wagner, John Cassaday and Stephen Segovia all contribute beautiful eye catching work, but only one was all I needed. Alex, I chose you!
So as you can imagine I loved this book! It had everything I liked in my comics and I can’t wait for the next issue. When you end the first issue with Kato joining the pre World War Two Japanese Army, what do you expect me to do?
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Union Goons
3-14-10: Did The Failure Of The Clone Saga Lead To One More Day?
by Brian LeTendre
The recent miniseries “Spider-Man: Clone Saga” was an attempt by Tom DeFalco, Howard Mackie and Todd Nauck to revisit the controversial clone storyline and give it the “director’s cut” treatment, bringing the storyline closer to how it was originally intended to play out when it was first conceived. While the execution of the miniseries was somewhat flawed, I enjoyed it overall. More importantly, it got me thinking about an equally controversial storyline—“One More Day.” In examining what both of those storylines were trying to accomplish, it occurred to me that if the “Clone Saga” had achieved what it was originally set out to do, there likely wouldn’t have been a need for “One More Day” a little more than a decade later.
Allow me to explain.
When the “Clone Saga” first started in 1994, it was originally designed to do two things—establish Ben Reilly as the original Peter Parker, and get away from the convoluted storylines and status quo that had become the Spideyverse at the time. It was an attempt to get back to the basics of what made the character of Spider-Man appealing, and simplify his world. When the initial books started selling well, the creators were made to expand the storyline, which led to the complicated mess that the whole saga ended up being. Backlash over Ben Reilly being the original Peter caused the writers to change the outcome of the storyline, which further complicated matters. The tragic part of the whole thing was that Ben Reilly was a cool character, and he became the scapegoat for everything that was wrong with the “Clone Saga.” Getting rid of him was something the creators clearly regret to this day.
So, fast forward to 2007’s “One More Day.” The goal of this event was to get Peter out of his marriage to Mary Jane, get back to the basics of what made the character of Spider-Man appealing, and simplify his world. Not since the "Clone Saga" has a Spidey storyline been so divisive among the hardcore fans. Many were so unhappy with the creative decisions, they stopped buying Spidey books altogether. I personally did not like the decision to get rid of the marriage or the execution of the story, but I can’t argue with the results. Spider-Man has not been this fun to read in years, in my opinion.
Whether you like the current status of Spider-Man or not, the similarities between the “Clone Saga” and “One More Day” are interesting to think about. Even more interesting is the idea that if the "Clone Saga" had been executed as planned, we likely would never have seen “One More Day.”
So, what do you think?
The recent miniseries “Spider-Man: Clone Saga” was an attempt by Tom DeFalco, Howard Mackie and Todd Nauck to revisit the controversial clone storyline and give it the “director’s cut” treatment, bringing the storyline closer to how it was originally intended to play out when it was first conceived. While the execution of the miniseries was somewhat flawed, I enjoyed it overall. More importantly, it got me thinking about an equally controversial storyline—“One More Day.” In examining what both of those storylines were trying to accomplish, it occurred to me that if the “Clone Saga” had achieved what it was originally set out to do, there likely wouldn’t have been a need for “One More Day” a little more than a decade later.
Allow me to explain.
When the “Clone Saga” first started in 1994, it was originally designed to do two things—establish Ben Reilly as the original Peter Parker, and get away from the convoluted storylines and status quo that had become the Spideyverse at the time. It was an attempt to get back to the basics of what made the character of Spider-Man appealing, and simplify his world. When the initial books started selling well, the creators were made to expand the storyline, which led to the complicated mess that the whole saga ended up being. Backlash over Ben Reilly being the original Peter caused the writers to change the outcome of the storyline, which further complicated matters. The tragic part of the whole thing was that Ben Reilly was a cool character, and he became the scapegoat for everything that was wrong with the “Clone Saga.” Getting rid of him was something the creators clearly regret to this day.
So, fast forward to 2007’s “One More Day.” The goal of this event was to get Peter out of his marriage to Mary Jane, get back to the basics of what made the character of Spider-Man appealing, and simplify his world. Not since the "Clone Saga" has a Spidey storyline been so divisive among the hardcore fans. Many were so unhappy with the creative decisions, they stopped buying Spidey books altogether. I personally did not like the decision to get rid of the marriage or the execution of the story, but I can’t argue with the results. Spider-Man has not been this fun to read in years, in my opinion.
Whether you like the current status of Spider-Man or not, the similarities between the “Clone Saga” and “One More Day” are interesting to think about. Even more interesting is the idea that if the "Clone Saga" had been executed as planned, we likely would never have seen “One More Day.”
So, what do you think?
3-3-10: Lazerman # 4 (HB Comics)
by Matman
It all comes down to this issue! Lazerman vs. Razorman! This time it’s comical!
As I have been reading and loving Lazerman, I was wondering where and how the first story arc would conclude? Writer Alan Hebert has for four issues crafted a fun story with a lot of humor and great storytelling. The storytelling is very silver aged influenced with dialogue right out of those classic tales. One liners and funny jabs o’ plenty! Artist Chris Hebert’s work is very pleasing to the eyes with big panels and simple layouts. Bringing the visuals home is Team “HB” with the coloring. Nothing gets lost especially in the fight scenes. The focus is on the action, not the color of the moment background. This is the way comics should be; fun and easy to look at!
Lazerman # 4 brings us to New York City. After all if you’re gonna have a big fight, why not in the greatest city in the world? Lazerman is hot on the trail of his nemesis and in a great full page splash is following bad directions to find him. When he finally does he sees that Razorman has constructed a car…the (you guessed it) Razormobile. It runs on diamonds which in New York City is still cheaper than a gallon of gas. But as Razorman escapes in his new weapon, our hero soon finds out the extras; missiles, a big punching bag and then a huge robot! The battle gets out of the city and ends up at the Statue Of Liberty where Razorman explains how he is going to cut off the head of the beloved statue! How does it end?
No spoilers!
Some clever pop culture references to look for! Both featuring the closing scenes of two of my favorite movies (Planet Of The Apes and Superman The Movie) and an appearance by everyone’s favorite pod cast duo!
If you haven’t been reading Lazerman, than you are missing a great all ages comic! Not a kids comic by any stretch, but younger readers will appreciate it as well. With all the heavy, violent and way too serious books crowding the shelves, Lazerman is a refreshing change. Congrats to Alan and Chris for completing their first arc in a way that does the entire series proud. No letdowns at all!
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Dripping Breakfast Burritos
It all comes down to this issue! Lazerman vs. Razorman! This time it’s comical!
As I have been reading and loving Lazerman, I was wondering where and how the first story arc would conclude? Writer Alan Hebert has for four issues crafted a fun story with a lot of humor and great storytelling. The storytelling is very silver aged influenced with dialogue right out of those classic tales. One liners and funny jabs o’ plenty! Artist Chris Hebert’s work is very pleasing to the eyes with big panels and simple layouts. Bringing the visuals home is Team “HB” with the coloring. Nothing gets lost especially in the fight scenes. The focus is on the action, not the color of the moment background. This is the way comics should be; fun and easy to look at!
Lazerman # 4 brings us to New York City. After all if you’re gonna have a big fight, why not in the greatest city in the world? Lazerman is hot on the trail of his nemesis and in a great full page splash is following bad directions to find him. When he finally does he sees that Razorman has constructed a car…the (you guessed it) Razormobile. It runs on diamonds which in New York City is still cheaper than a gallon of gas. But as Razorman escapes in his new weapon, our hero soon finds out the extras; missiles, a big punching bag and then a huge robot! The battle gets out of the city and ends up at the Statue Of Liberty where Razorman explains how he is going to cut off the head of the beloved statue! How does it end?
No spoilers!
Some clever pop culture references to look for! Both featuring the closing scenes of two of my favorite movies (Planet Of The Apes and Superman The Movie) and an appearance by everyone’s favorite pod cast duo!
If you haven’t been reading Lazerman, than you are missing a great all ages comic! Not a kids comic by any stretch, but younger readers will appreciate it as well. With all the heavy, violent and way too serious books crowding the shelves, Lazerman is a refreshing change. Congrats to Alan and Chris for completing their first arc in a way that does the entire series proud. No letdowns at all!
Matman Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Dripping Breakfast Burritos
2-2-10: Review--Galacta: Daughter of Galactus #0 (Marvel)
by Brian LeTendre
“Galacta: Daughter of Galactus” #0 is a fun introduction to a great “what if?' character. Adam Warren and Hector Sevilla Lujan have combined their creative powers to come up with a fun story for all ages.
The #0 issue of Galacta is actually the story that appeared in Marvel’s “Assistant-Sized Spectacular” #2 a while back. Marvel has posted it on the Digital Comics site, since Galacta will be getting her own limited series on the Digital Comics site starting in February.
The story introduces Galacta as the daughter of Galactus. She has the same cosmic appetite as her father, but she also has a fondness for the human race that her dad doesn’t necessarily share. Because of this, she chooses to live on Earth and use the power cosmic to disguise herself as a young woman, and she only “eats” organisms that are not native to the planet. In one instance she saves a terminally ill woman by removing from her body micro bacteria of Skrull origin. In another, she dives into a pool of molten lava to snack on some Kree “Metallovores” that would have eaten through the earth’s core if left to their own devices.
It takes a lot of willpower for Galacta to use her powers so selectively, especially since all humans look like food to her, and she’s surrounded by them 24/7. Galacta starts getting concerned when she finds that her hunger is becoming harder and harder to control, so she puts herself through a thorough examination to find out what’s wrong. The answers she comes up with forces her to do something she really doesn’t want to—ask dear old dad for help.
I’m a big fan of alternate takes on established characters and events in the marvel U, and “Galacta: Daughter of Galactus” is a great one. The story is accessible for both kids and adults, and longtime Marvel readers should enjoy it for what it is.
Starting in February, Galacta will get three seven-page issues on Marvel Digital Comics, which will eventually be combined with the #0 issue for a full-sized print version. I’m hoping the character proved popular enough to get another digital series, and it’s great to see marvel trying out these ideas as a way to offer something unique through their digital service.
4 out of 5 Cosmic Hunger Pangs
“Galacta: Daughter of Galactus” #0 is a fun introduction to a great “what if?' character. Adam Warren and Hector Sevilla Lujan have combined their creative powers to come up with a fun story for all ages.
The #0 issue of Galacta is actually the story that appeared in Marvel’s “Assistant-Sized Spectacular” #2 a while back. Marvel has posted it on the Digital Comics site, since Galacta will be getting her own limited series on the Digital Comics site starting in February.
The story introduces Galacta as the daughter of Galactus. She has the same cosmic appetite as her father, but she also has a fondness for the human race that her dad doesn’t necessarily share. Because of this, she chooses to live on Earth and use the power cosmic to disguise herself as a young woman, and she only “eats” organisms that are not native to the planet. In one instance she saves a terminally ill woman by removing from her body micro bacteria of Skrull origin. In another, she dives into a pool of molten lava to snack on some Kree “Metallovores” that would have eaten through the earth’s core if left to their own devices.
It takes a lot of willpower for Galacta to use her powers so selectively, especially since all humans look like food to her, and she’s surrounded by them 24/7. Galacta starts getting concerned when she finds that her hunger is becoming harder and harder to control, so she puts herself through a thorough examination to find out what’s wrong. The answers she comes up with forces her to do something she really doesn’t want to—ask dear old dad for help.
I’m a big fan of alternate takes on established characters and events in the marvel U, and “Galacta: Daughter of Galactus” is a great one. The story is accessible for both kids and adults, and longtime Marvel readers should enjoy it for what it is.
Starting in February, Galacta will get three seven-page issues on Marvel Digital Comics, which will eventually be combined with the #0 issue for a full-sized print version. I’m hoping the character proved popular enough to get another digital series, and it’s great to see marvel trying out these ideas as a way to offer something unique through their digital service.
4 out of 5 Cosmic Hunger Pangs
1-31-10: More Silber Minicomics Reviews
by Brian LeTendre
Back in July, I reviewed a batch of minicomics created by Brian John Mitchell. “Just a Man,” “Worms,” “XO” and “Lost Kisses” were four very different titles with subject matter ranging from self deprecation to scientific experimentation. Brian recently sent me another batch of minicomics, and like the last bunch, he continues to explore very diverse subject matter in each of them.
The biggest group of comics in the bunch was the “Lost Kisses” collection, which is a DVD containing ten issues of the comic as well as a 'making of' issue where Brian describes the creation process. In going through all of the issues, this title has actually eme4rged as my favorite, because it's so personal and raw. Each issue sees Mitchell examining an aspect of himself in a sometimes humorous, sometimes depressing manner. He talks frankly and openly about past loves, addiction, and feeling lost and uninspired. The stick figure drawings are a perfect match for the tone of the comics, as they leave the focus on the story.
Mitchell took the “Lost Kisses” title in a totally new direction with the first issue of “Ultimate Lost Kisses.” This issue features artwork by the legendary Dave Sim, and it focuses on someone else's life for a change. The story involves a woman in her thirties who get a death row letter from the son she gave up when she was a teenager. While the story is a huge shift for the series, the frank and personal nature of the issue is right in line with what the series has been about so far.
Another new title in the latest round of Mitchell's minicomics is “Marked.” This supernatural series revolves around a retired monster hunter who gets sucked back into his former life when his sister is brutally murdered. Jeremy Johnson does an amazing job on art, and lends great atmosphere to the story with just one panel per page. In the fist issue, the monster hunter confronts the demons that killed his sister, and we find out he's got a big secret of his own that he just let out.
The more I read of Mitchell's minicomics, the more impressed I am. He has excellent command of the format―he understands what he can and can't do, and he plays to its strengths. The stories are lean and mean, no filler, and even though the issue don't take long to read, I find myself going back to particular issues for multiple reads.
I highly recommend checking out Mitchell's line of minicomics over at www.silbermedia.com/comics.
4 out of 5 Good Things Come in Small Packages
Back in July, I reviewed a batch of minicomics created by Brian John Mitchell. “Just a Man,” “Worms,” “XO” and “Lost Kisses” were four very different titles with subject matter ranging from self deprecation to scientific experimentation. Brian recently sent me another batch of minicomics, and like the last bunch, he continues to explore very diverse subject matter in each of them.
The biggest group of comics in the bunch was the “Lost Kisses” collection, which is a DVD containing ten issues of the comic as well as a 'making of' issue where Brian describes the creation process. In going through all of the issues, this title has actually eme4rged as my favorite, because it's so personal and raw. Each issue sees Mitchell examining an aspect of himself in a sometimes humorous, sometimes depressing manner. He talks frankly and openly about past loves, addiction, and feeling lost and uninspired. The stick figure drawings are a perfect match for the tone of the comics, as they leave the focus on the story.
Mitchell took the “Lost Kisses” title in a totally new direction with the first issue of “Ultimate Lost Kisses.” This issue features artwork by the legendary Dave Sim, and it focuses on someone else's life for a change. The story involves a woman in her thirties who get a death row letter from the son she gave up when she was a teenager. While the story is a huge shift for the series, the frank and personal nature of the issue is right in line with what the series has been about so far.
Another new title in the latest round of Mitchell's minicomics is “Marked.” This supernatural series revolves around a retired monster hunter who gets sucked back into his former life when his sister is brutally murdered. Jeremy Johnson does an amazing job on art, and lends great atmosphere to the story with just one panel per page. In the fist issue, the monster hunter confronts the demons that killed his sister, and we find out he's got a big secret of his own that he just let out.
The more I read of Mitchell's minicomics, the more impressed I am. He has excellent command of the format―he understands what he can and can't do, and he plays to its strengths. The stories are lean and mean, no filler, and even though the issue don't take long to read, I find myself going back to particular issues for multiple reads.
I highly recommend checking out Mitchell's line of minicomics over at www.silbermedia.com/comics.
4 out of 5 Good Things Come in Small Packages
1-29-10: Review--Robotika (Archaia)
by Brian LeTendre
With “Robotika,” Alex Sheikman combines steampunk, samurai, cyborgs and sprinkles in some Wild West to create a stunning vision on the future.
“Robotika” starts off following Niko, a samurai in the employ of the queen’s guard, who is sent on a mission through the badlands to retrieve a stolen piece of technology that has potential to change the economic landscape. Along the way he encounters bandits, cyborgs, and Cherokee Geisha, a sword-wielding mercenary that takes a shine to Niko and helps him on his mission. Niko completes his task and returns to the queen, but what she does with the recovered technology makes Niko question why he went on the mission in the first place. He decides to give up his sword, and walks away from the queen.
Niko then falls in with Cherokee Geisha and her colleague Bronsky, as they escort a group of people on a pilgrimage to visit their god. Needless to say, that adventure doesn’t turn out quite as intended, either.
Sheikman writes and illustrates this series, which is a good thing, as I’m not sure anyone else would have been able to convey the world he’s created in Robotika. The visuals are amazing, and Sheikman does an especially great job of fusing organics with technology against the backdrop of the Wild West-like badlands. It’s like nothing I’ve seen before.
The techniques that Sheikman uses to make each character stand out are interesting as well. Niko is mute, and much of his story comes from the characters and the world reacting to him. Cherokee Geisha is also mute, but has a voice modulator that makes her sound…odd. Sheikman conveys this by lettering all of Cherokee’s dialogue vertically. It’s jarring at first, but it also has the effect of slowing you down, making you take in what’s going on in every panel. I actually came to appreciate it by the end of the series, as Robotika is not a read that you can breeze through.
Overall, “Robotika” is a very interesting experience through a completely unique world. I would definitely recommend it.
4 out of 5 Artificial Intelligences
You can check out the entire 132-page Robotika pdf over at Drive Thru comics for $5.99. Click here to go to the product page.
With “Robotika,” Alex Sheikman combines steampunk, samurai, cyborgs and sprinkles in some Wild West to create a stunning vision on the future.
“Robotika” starts off following Niko, a samurai in the employ of the queen’s guard, who is sent on a mission through the badlands to retrieve a stolen piece of technology that has potential to change the economic landscape. Along the way he encounters bandits, cyborgs, and Cherokee Geisha, a sword-wielding mercenary that takes a shine to Niko and helps him on his mission. Niko completes his task and returns to the queen, but what she does with the recovered technology makes Niko question why he went on the mission in the first place. He decides to give up his sword, and walks away from the queen.
Niko then falls in with Cherokee Geisha and her colleague Bronsky, as they escort a group of people on a pilgrimage to visit their god. Needless to say, that adventure doesn’t turn out quite as intended, either.
Sheikman writes and illustrates this series, which is a good thing, as I’m not sure anyone else would have been able to convey the world he’s created in Robotika. The visuals are amazing, and Sheikman does an especially great job of fusing organics with technology against the backdrop of the Wild West-like badlands. It’s like nothing I’ve seen before.
The techniques that Sheikman uses to make each character stand out are interesting as well. Niko is mute, and much of his story comes from the characters and the world reacting to him. Cherokee Geisha is also mute, but has a voice modulator that makes her sound…odd. Sheikman conveys this by lettering all of Cherokee’s dialogue vertically. It’s jarring at first, but it also has the effect of slowing you down, making you take in what’s going on in every panel. I actually came to appreciate it by the end of the series, as Robotika is not a read that you can breeze through.
Overall, “Robotika” is a very interesting experience through a completely unique world. I would definitely recommend it.
4 out of 5 Artificial Intelligences
You can check out the entire 132-page Robotika pdf over at Drive Thru comics for $5.99. Click here to go to the product page.
1-19-10: Review--Incorruptible #1 (BOOM!)
by Brian LeTendre
Mark Waid is following up his blockbuster series "Irredeemable" with a book that explores what happens when one of the world’s worst criminals goes legit? Unfortunately, Issue #1 doesn’t have the same punch as its sister series did.
"Incorruptible" takes place in the same world as "Irredeemable." Max Damage is one of the most feared supervillains around, and he’s one of the few to stand toe to toe with the Plutonian and live. The first issue of the series starts out with Max’s former crew trying to pull off a job in his absence (it seems Max dropped off the radar recently). When Max Damage himself shows up during a firefight between the gang and the cops, everyone is surprised to see Max side with the good guys. We find out that a big reason for his change of heart was the fact that he was a witness to the Plutionian snapping and causing mass destruction.
What I like about the first issue of "Incorruptible" is that it begins to flesh out the world that Waid created with "Irredeemable." The idea that he’s creating a whole new universe for new characters to populate is great, and it would be awesome to see BOOM! start to develop that universe with a host of new creators and characters. On the downside, the story is pretty lean, and it feels like something that could have been done in about ten pages max, either as a backup in "Irredeemable," or a #0 issue to set up the new series. I’m hoping things will pick up next issue, and Waid has definitely earned the benefit of the doubt by virtue of the amazing 2009 he had.
2.5 out of 5 Goin’ Legits
Mark Waid is following up his blockbuster series "Irredeemable" with a book that explores what happens when one of the world’s worst criminals goes legit? Unfortunately, Issue #1 doesn’t have the same punch as its sister series did.
"Incorruptible" takes place in the same world as "Irredeemable." Max Damage is one of the most feared supervillains around, and he’s one of the few to stand toe to toe with the Plutonian and live. The first issue of the series starts out with Max’s former crew trying to pull off a job in his absence (it seems Max dropped off the radar recently). When Max Damage himself shows up during a firefight between the gang and the cops, everyone is surprised to see Max side with the good guys. We find out that a big reason for his change of heart was the fact that he was a witness to the Plutionian snapping and causing mass destruction.
What I like about the first issue of "Incorruptible" is that it begins to flesh out the world that Waid created with "Irredeemable." The idea that he’s creating a whole new universe for new characters to populate is great, and it would be awesome to see BOOM! start to develop that universe with a host of new creators and characters. On the downside, the story is pretty lean, and it feels like something that could have been done in about ten pages max, either as a backup in "Irredeemable," or a #0 issue to set up the new series. I’m hoping things will pick up next issue, and Waid has definitely earned the benefit of the doubt by virtue of the amazing 2009 he had.
2.5 out of 5 Goin’ Legits
1-13-09: Review--Army of Two #1 (IDW)
In October, Electronic Arts and IDW signed an agreement that created a new imprint called “EA Comics.” The first quarter of 2010 will see two new comic series launch under this imprint, the first of which hits stores this week. “Army of Two” is a series starring the main characters of EA’s “Army of Two” cooperative shooter games, and the first issue of the series is launching alongside the new “Army of Two” game.
Writer Peter Milligan (“Hellblazer,” “X-Statix”) does a nice job of establishing the foundation of the series in Issue #1. Tyson Rios and Elliot Salem are a couple of Private Military Contractors (PMCs) that have recently started up their own company (after the events of the first game) called Trans World Operations. As the story opens, Rios and Salem are hired for a job in Mexico that brings them into conflict with a street gang and a drug cartel that are destablilizing a region.
Milligan approaches the story from two separate angles that converge at the end of the issue. Salem and Rios’s story is one side of the coin, and a young kid who is facing initiation into the same gang they’re gunning for is the other. You get a lot of insight into the relationship between Salem and Rios, which isn’t all that rosy. You also get to see a kid getting pulled into gang life because he has no other options, and he’s not all that different from Salem and Rios, had they taken a different path.
Dexter Soy’s art on the book is great, and for a newcomer he shows off his ability to handle big action scenes right from the get go. Jose Marzan Jr.’s inks add an appropriately gritty feel to the book.
“Army of Two” #1 is a promising start for the series, and fans of the games will appreciate finding out more about what makes the characters tick. Whether or not there’s enough to bring in readers no familiar with the franchise remains to be seen, but I wouldn’t bet against Milligan.
3.5 out of 5 PMCs
Writer Peter Milligan (“Hellblazer,” “X-Statix”) does a nice job of establishing the foundation of the series in Issue #1. Tyson Rios and Elliot Salem are a couple of Private Military Contractors (PMCs) that have recently started up their own company (after the events of the first game) called Trans World Operations. As the story opens, Rios and Salem are hired for a job in Mexico that brings them into conflict with a street gang and a drug cartel that are destablilizing a region.
Milligan approaches the story from two separate angles that converge at the end of the issue. Salem and Rios’s story is one side of the coin, and a young kid who is facing initiation into the same gang they’re gunning for is the other. You get a lot of insight into the relationship between Salem and Rios, which isn’t all that rosy. You also get to see a kid getting pulled into gang life because he has no other options, and he’s not all that different from Salem and Rios, had they taken a different path.
Dexter Soy’s art on the book is great, and for a newcomer he shows off his ability to handle big action scenes right from the get go. Jose Marzan Jr.’s inks add an appropriately gritty feel to the book.
“Army of Two” #1 is a promising start for the series, and fans of the games will appreciate finding out more about what makes the characters tick. Whether or not there’s enough to bring in readers no familiar with the franchise remains to be seen, but I wouldn’t bet against Milligan.
3.5 out of 5 PMCs
1-10-09: Review--Empowered # 1 (Dark Horse)
Special Guest review by Dr. Michael Finger
In December, Dark Horse Comics released the latest in the “OEL” or Original English-Language Manga series, Empowered, from writer/artist Adam Warren. But rather than it being a full-length trade paperback volume like the five previously published since 2007, Empowered Special: The Wench With a Million Sighs is a standard, 32-page black-and-white one-shot conventional soft-covered floppy.
Generally speaking, Empowered asks what would happen if a teenage girl used her super-powered suit to help rid the world of genius super villains. But it just so happens this angsty, insecure young lady, named Emp, was blessed with the brains and personality of Brittany Spears.
In this stand-alone story, we follow Emp as she takes on the tyranny of Irresistimmovable, a villainous grave robber of superhero corpses. Spliced in between the battle, Ninja Wench and Thugboy, Emp’s respective roommate and boyfriend, sit through an alliterative diatribe from the demon kept trapped in a containment belt on Emp’s living room table. This alien overlord can no longer stomach Emp’s constant moaning. By the end of the issue, we discover what a real genius Irresistimmovable is and how the word “sigh” can be just as nuanced as “dude” if and when used properly.
This book is intended for mature readers, not due to any nudity, but to the implied and the (brief) not-so-implied sexuality thrown into the mix. Drawn in penciled grayscale that is neither inked nor toned, Warren mashes up a dialog style—combining equal parts Stan Lee, ADHD, Red Bull, and Mountain Dew—with a plotline never taking itself or its satiric intent too seriously.
As someone who has yet to read any of the previous five Empowered volumes from Dark Horse, I easily followed the story and found it a wanted change from the continuity-laden, back story-driven work of late from such “historians” as Grant Morrison and Geoff Johns. Rather, this a is light-hearted, mature-themed romp of superhero parody that does not rely on any more back story than what Warren can fit on the inside front cover. Just don’t be put off from the slightly reduced height of the issue—according to Warren himself, he draws the pages on 8.5 x 11 sheets that don’t scale nicely to standard comic book size.
4 out of 5 Sighs of Teen-Angst
In December, Dark Horse Comics released the latest in the “OEL” or Original English-Language Manga series, Empowered, from writer/artist Adam Warren. But rather than it being a full-length trade paperback volume like the five previously published since 2007, Empowered Special: The Wench With a Million Sighs is a standard, 32-page black-and-white one-shot conventional soft-covered floppy.
Generally speaking, Empowered asks what would happen if a teenage girl used her super-powered suit to help rid the world of genius super villains. But it just so happens this angsty, insecure young lady, named Emp, was blessed with the brains and personality of Brittany Spears.
In this stand-alone story, we follow Emp as she takes on the tyranny of Irresistimmovable, a villainous grave robber of superhero corpses. Spliced in between the battle, Ninja Wench and Thugboy, Emp’s respective roommate and boyfriend, sit through an alliterative diatribe from the demon kept trapped in a containment belt on Emp’s living room table. This alien overlord can no longer stomach Emp’s constant moaning. By the end of the issue, we discover what a real genius Irresistimmovable is and how the word “sigh” can be just as nuanced as “dude” if and when used properly.
This book is intended for mature readers, not due to any nudity, but to the implied and the (brief) not-so-implied sexuality thrown into the mix. Drawn in penciled grayscale that is neither inked nor toned, Warren mashes up a dialog style—combining equal parts Stan Lee, ADHD, Red Bull, and Mountain Dew—with a plotline never taking itself or its satiric intent too seriously.
As someone who has yet to read any of the previous five Empowered volumes from Dark Horse, I easily followed the story and found it a wanted change from the continuity-laden, back story-driven work of late from such “historians” as Grant Morrison and Geoff Johns. Rather, this a is light-hearted, mature-themed romp of superhero parody that does not rely on any more back story than what Warren can fit on the inside front cover. Just don’t be put off from the slightly reduced height of the issue—according to Warren himself, he draws the pages on 8.5 x 11 sheets that don’t scale nicely to standard comic book size.
4 out of 5 Sighs of Teen-Angst
1-7-10: Sneak Review--G-Man: Cape Crisis #5 (Image)
by Brian LeTendre
“G-Man: Cape Crisis” has been a fun ride all along the way, and a showcase for Chris Giarrusso’s writing, which often gets overlooked because his art is so damn good. Issue #5 provides a satisfying conclusion to the series, as well as the promise of further adventures.
For those who haven’t been following along (shame on you), G-Man and Great Man get their super powers from pieces of a magic blanket. Following Great Man’s attempts to sell extra scraps of the blanket to make some quick cash, the magic of the blanket was fractured, and the G-brothers were almost killed in the process. This issue sees Great Man and G-Man having to travel together to Sky Mountain, home of the Old Gods, to try and resurrect the magic and get their powers back.
Issue #5 of “Cape Crisis” is chock full of the same great humor as the previous issues. Laugh out loud moments include G-Man trying to convince his parents that his brother isn’t dead, a flying sofa powered by magic broomsticks, and deer whistles that attract giant sea monsters. What’s great about this issue though, is that it brings in something we haven’t seen before in this series—G-Man and Great Man having to work together to overcome a larger problem. It’s a logical conclusion to what we’ve seen up to this point, and Giarrusso executes it well. There’s also a great bunch of colorful creatures that inhabit Sky Mountain, and the last few steps of the G-brothers quest feel pretty epic.
The only downside to the issue is that once the quest is complete, there’s not much room left for an epilogue. Luckily, the promise of another series means we’ll get to spend more time with these characters in the near future. All in all, Chris G. has started to build a very interesting world for G-Man and his supporting cast, so go support this book and make sure we get to keep going back to visit.
4.5 out of 5 Fluffle Beasts
“G-Man; Cape Crisis” #5 is slated to hit store shelves on January 20th. While you’re waiting, head over to www.chrisgcomics.com and check out the great galleries, toons and 8-bit game remakes.
“G-Man: Cape Crisis” has been a fun ride all along the way, and a showcase for Chris Giarrusso’s writing, which often gets overlooked because his art is so damn good. Issue #5 provides a satisfying conclusion to the series, as well as the promise of further adventures.
For those who haven’t been following along (shame on you), G-Man and Great Man get their super powers from pieces of a magic blanket. Following Great Man’s attempts to sell extra scraps of the blanket to make some quick cash, the magic of the blanket was fractured, and the G-brothers were almost killed in the process. This issue sees Great Man and G-Man having to travel together to Sky Mountain, home of the Old Gods, to try and resurrect the magic and get their powers back.
Issue #5 of “Cape Crisis” is chock full of the same great humor as the previous issues. Laugh out loud moments include G-Man trying to convince his parents that his brother isn’t dead, a flying sofa powered by magic broomsticks, and deer whistles that attract giant sea monsters. What’s great about this issue though, is that it brings in something we haven’t seen before in this series—G-Man and Great Man having to work together to overcome a larger problem. It’s a logical conclusion to what we’ve seen up to this point, and Giarrusso executes it well. There’s also a great bunch of colorful creatures that inhabit Sky Mountain, and the last few steps of the G-brothers quest feel pretty epic.
The only downside to the issue is that once the quest is complete, there’s not much room left for an epilogue. Luckily, the promise of another series means we’ll get to spend more time with these characters in the near future. All in all, Chris G. has started to build a very interesting world for G-Man and his supporting cast, so go support this book and make sure we get to keep going back to visit.
4.5 out of 5 Fluffle Beasts
“G-Man; Cape Crisis” #5 is slated to hit store shelves on January 20th. While you’re waiting, head over to www.chrisgcomics.com and check out the great galleries, toons and 8-bit game remakes.
1-2-09: Review--2012: Final Prayer (Heske Horror)
by Brian LeTendre
I really enjoyed Robert Heske's last anthology “Bone Chiller,” and his latest collection tackles a subject I find very interesting: the predicted end of the world. “2012: Final Prayer” is an anthology that offers a variety of perspectives on 12-21-12, the day the Mayan calendar ends and the apocalypse supposedly occurs.
Over a dozen stories by different writers and artists look at different aspects of the end of the world. Chris McJunkin's “Final Choices” explores the idea that when the world comes to an end, everyone will experience it differently. Jim Alexander and Andrew Dodd's “Manchester” follows a man whose last day on earth turns out to be his happiest. Dino Caruso's “Hollow Victory” sees scientists send a man into the future to see if the apocalypse really occurs. He finds that it has, and ironically his beloved Chicago Cubs won the world series right before the world ended.
My favorite of the bunch though is Arno Hurter and David Edwards' “Bird's Eye View.” The story follows Capitan Gregory Burke, a US astronaut that happens to be in orbit aboard a space shuttle when 12-21-12 hits. Not only does he watch the end of the world from afar, he finds out that the planet was merely a vessel, an incubator for something that is finally ready to hatch. He records his final moments as a record of the last day of humanity.
With “2012: Final Prayer,” Robert Heske has again pulled together an interesting collection of stories from a variety of creative teams. The anthology is well worth checking out if you have an interest in the end times.
4 out of 5 Last Days on Earth
You can grab 2012: Final Prayer over on Drive Thru Comics right now for a mere $4.99, whihc is a great deal for a 150+ page anthology. Click here to check out the product page.
I really enjoyed Robert Heske's last anthology “Bone Chiller,” and his latest collection tackles a subject I find very interesting: the predicted end of the world. “2012: Final Prayer” is an anthology that offers a variety of perspectives on 12-21-12, the day the Mayan calendar ends and the apocalypse supposedly occurs.
Over a dozen stories by different writers and artists look at different aspects of the end of the world. Chris McJunkin's “Final Choices” explores the idea that when the world comes to an end, everyone will experience it differently. Jim Alexander and Andrew Dodd's “Manchester” follows a man whose last day on earth turns out to be his happiest. Dino Caruso's “Hollow Victory” sees scientists send a man into the future to see if the apocalypse really occurs. He finds that it has, and ironically his beloved Chicago Cubs won the world series right before the world ended.
My favorite of the bunch though is Arno Hurter and David Edwards' “Bird's Eye View.” The story follows Capitan Gregory Burke, a US astronaut that happens to be in orbit aboard a space shuttle when 12-21-12 hits. Not only does he watch the end of the world from afar, he finds out that the planet was merely a vessel, an incubator for something that is finally ready to hatch. He records his final moments as a record of the last day of humanity.
With “2012: Final Prayer,” Robert Heske has again pulled together an interesting collection of stories from a variety of creative teams. The anthology is well worth checking out if you have an interest in the end times.
4 out of 5 Last Days on Earth
You can grab 2012: Final Prayer over on Drive Thru Comics right now for a mere $4.99, whihc is a great deal for a 150+ page anthology. Click here to check out the product page.
12-24-09: Sneak Review--A Second Chance at Sarah (Ape Entertainment)
by Brian LeTendre
I am a sucker for stories involving time travel. The idea of going back to either undo some tragic event, or somehow change you’re the course of your life is a fascinating concept to me. Movies like “Donnie Darko,” “Time After Time,” “The Butterfly Effect” and “Back to the Future” all explore this concept in their own unique ways. Writer Neil Druckmann and artist Joysuke Wong have offered up their own unique take on the concept with “A Second Chance at Sarah,” a well-spun tale of love and loss tinged with the supernatural.
“A Second Chance at Sarah” opens with a guy names Johnny holding his newborn son in a hospital room. We quickly see that the child’s mother Sarah is in a coma that she’s unlikely to come out of. Things quickly take a turn for the otherworldly when we find out Johnny is about to make a deal with a demon to somehow try and save Sarah from her comatose existence. The deal Johnny makes sends him back in time to 1996, when he was a high school student that had not yet begun dating his future wife Sarah. Johnny has twenty-four hours to prevent Sarah from making a decision that will seal her fate in the future, and the demon pulling the strings behind it all has a plan that not only threatens the future of Johnny and Sarah, but their child as well.
Neil Druckmann is probably best known as a lead designer at Naughty Dog and the co-writer of “Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune” and “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.” He makes the transition to graphic novels seamlessly here, as “A Second Chance at Sarah” is a well-paced story with no fat on it. Druckmann knows where he’s going, and he doesn’t waste any of the book’s 96 pages on unnecessary filler. Joy Wong’s painted art style is a perfect fit for this time-travelling story that is part dream and part nightmare. She also uses color to great effect in capturing the changing mood of the book.
All in all, “A Second Chance at Sarah” is a great read and definitely worth checking out. I’m looking forward to see what comes next from both Druckmann and Wong.
4.5 out of 5 Second Chances
“A Second Chance at Sarah” is in December Previews, and will be hitting stores in February. For a free preview of the first 24 pages, head over to www.ape-entertainment.com.
I am a sucker for stories involving time travel. The idea of going back to either undo some tragic event, or somehow change you’re the course of your life is a fascinating concept to me. Movies like “Donnie Darko,” “Time After Time,” “The Butterfly Effect” and “Back to the Future” all explore this concept in their own unique ways. Writer Neil Druckmann and artist Joysuke Wong have offered up their own unique take on the concept with “A Second Chance at Sarah,” a well-spun tale of love and loss tinged with the supernatural.
“A Second Chance at Sarah” opens with a guy names Johnny holding his newborn son in a hospital room. We quickly see that the child’s mother Sarah is in a coma that she’s unlikely to come out of. Things quickly take a turn for the otherworldly when we find out Johnny is about to make a deal with a demon to somehow try and save Sarah from her comatose existence. The deal Johnny makes sends him back in time to 1996, when he was a high school student that had not yet begun dating his future wife Sarah. Johnny has twenty-four hours to prevent Sarah from making a decision that will seal her fate in the future, and the demon pulling the strings behind it all has a plan that not only threatens the future of Johnny and Sarah, but their child as well.
Neil Druckmann is probably best known as a lead designer at Naughty Dog and the co-writer of “Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune” and “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.” He makes the transition to graphic novels seamlessly here, as “A Second Chance at Sarah” is a well-paced story with no fat on it. Druckmann knows where he’s going, and he doesn’t waste any of the book’s 96 pages on unnecessary filler. Joy Wong’s painted art style is a perfect fit for this time-travelling story that is part dream and part nightmare. She also uses color to great effect in capturing the changing mood of the book.
All in all, “A Second Chance at Sarah” is a great read and definitely worth checking out. I’m looking forward to see what comes next from both Druckmann and Wong.
4.5 out of 5 Second Chances
“A Second Chance at Sarah” is in December Previews, and will be hitting stores in February. For a free preview of the first 24 pages, head over to www.ape-entertainment.com.
12-21-09: What Happened To War Machine?
by Brian LeTendre
Everything started out so good. In the past couple years, whether it was in the pages of "Avengers: The Initiative" or "Iron Man: Director of SHIELD," War Machine was a great character. In fact, the three-issue arc that finished out "Iron Man: Director of S.H.I.E.L.D." was fantastic (remember the satellite that turned into a giant robot?--awesome). When the new series was announced and we found out Greg pak was writing it, all signs indicated it would be great.
So, as I was reading the final issue of War Machine this week, I found myself thinking about what went so wrong that the series was being canceled a mere 12 issues in. And in the end, I think that James Rhodes as a miserable cyborg is just not a likable character. In fact, making him a cyborg in the first place just seems like a poor choice for the character. Sure, it makes him stand out from every other guy wearing a suit of armor, but it made me as a long time fan of Rhodey feel like it wasn't the same guy anymore. As action-packed and gritty as the new series was, Rhodes was pretty much a miserable son of a gun the whole time.
And then there's the last arc, where we find out in that there's a brand new body out there for Rhodes to download his brain into, basically making him "human" again (which happens in issue #12). This felt completely forced, and it seemed like Pak was told to re-humanize Rhodey by the end of the series, so that he would be recognizable to readers when the "Iron Man 2" movie comes out this May. It almost felt like this series was doomed from the start, merely a vehicle to reposition the character for when the movie arrives.
It's a shame that this War Machine series never really got off the ground, and I'm wondering if the character can even sustain his own book anymore, as opposed to showing up in other characters' series. I don't think we'll have to wait too long to find out though, as I'm sure we'll be seeing at least a War Machine miniseries launch in the wake of Iron Man 2. Let's just hope Rhodey is a little more likable next time around.
Everything started out so good. In the past couple years, whether it was in the pages of "Avengers: The Initiative" or "Iron Man: Director of SHIELD," War Machine was a great character. In fact, the three-issue arc that finished out "Iron Man: Director of S.H.I.E.L.D." was fantastic (remember the satellite that turned into a giant robot?--awesome). When the new series was announced and we found out Greg pak was writing it, all signs indicated it would be great.
So, as I was reading the final issue of War Machine this week, I found myself thinking about what went so wrong that the series was being canceled a mere 12 issues in. And in the end, I think that James Rhodes as a miserable cyborg is just not a likable character. In fact, making him a cyborg in the first place just seems like a poor choice for the character. Sure, it makes him stand out from every other guy wearing a suit of armor, but it made me as a long time fan of Rhodey feel like it wasn't the same guy anymore. As action-packed and gritty as the new series was, Rhodes was pretty much a miserable son of a gun the whole time.
And then there's the last arc, where we find out in that there's a brand new body out there for Rhodes to download his brain into, basically making him "human" again (which happens in issue #12). This felt completely forced, and it seemed like Pak was told to re-humanize Rhodey by the end of the series, so that he would be recognizable to readers when the "Iron Man 2" movie comes out this May. It almost felt like this series was doomed from the start, merely a vehicle to reposition the character for when the movie arrives.
It's a shame that this War Machine series never really got off the ground, and I'm wondering if the character can even sustain his own book anymore, as opposed to showing up in other characters' series. I don't think we'll have to wait too long to find out though, as I'm sure we'll be seeing at least a War Machine miniseries launch in the wake of Iron Man 2. Let's just hope Rhodey is a little more likable next time around.
12-20-09:Titanium Rain # 1 (Archaia Publishing)
by Matman
I love history! If it wasn’t for that passion I may never have collected war comics thus I may never have stayed with comics. So with that love and enthusiasm I dove into the world of 2031 and Titanium Rain.
The future is a scary place! In this particular future, a Civil War in China has erupted into a global conflict. As war erupts on a very technical level, it still needs human soldiers; men and woman who not only handle the most advanced weapons, they become weapons. To get more of an edge over the enemy, pilots are introduced to the Prometheus Initiative. By augmenting them with mech, they will have better aim, reaction time and become better killing machines!
Writer Josh Finney does an excellent job in introducing the readers to the characters and the situation. Instead of text pages, a group of pilots sit around a poker table, tell their story and their own situations. This is a great way to move a deep and heavy story without boring the readers. But I think for many, the art will be what draws the readers really in. Josh Finney and Kat Rocha use a photo real art style that is incredibly detailed and almost jumps right out of the page. Some of it can be a little unsettling like the eyes following you! Very cool stuff! This is the only style that would work with this book.
I can give you a bunch of reasons to pick up this book (number two is also available), but the number one reason is it’s an incredible read; deep, emotional but very accessible. Comics don’t always have to be all superheroes so take a chance. If you can’t find it at your local shop, go to www.archaia.com or www.titaniumrain.net.
Matman Rating – 4 out of 5 Jade Empires
I love history! If it wasn’t for that passion I may never have collected war comics thus I may never have stayed with comics. So with that love and enthusiasm I dove into the world of 2031 and Titanium Rain.
The future is a scary place! In this particular future, a Civil War in China has erupted into a global conflict. As war erupts on a very technical level, it still needs human soldiers; men and woman who not only handle the most advanced weapons, they become weapons. To get more of an edge over the enemy, pilots are introduced to the Prometheus Initiative. By augmenting them with mech, they will have better aim, reaction time and become better killing machines!
Writer Josh Finney does an excellent job in introducing the readers to the characters and the situation. Instead of text pages, a group of pilots sit around a poker table, tell their story and their own situations. This is a great way to move a deep and heavy story without boring the readers. But I think for many, the art will be what draws the readers really in. Josh Finney and Kat Rocha use a photo real art style that is incredibly detailed and almost jumps right out of the page. Some of it can be a little unsettling like the eyes following you! Very cool stuff! This is the only style that would work with this book.
I can give you a bunch of reasons to pick up this book (number two is also available), but the number one reason is it’s an incredible read; deep, emotional but very accessible. Comics don’t always have to be all superheroes so take a chance. If you can’t find it at your local shop, go to www.archaia.com or www.titaniumrain.net.
Matman Rating – 4 out of 5 Jade Empires
12-14-09: Dante's Inferno #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Maybe I shouldn’t have read the first issue of WildStorm’s new “Dante’s Inferno” series after having just played the PS3 demo of the game. Because “Dante’s Inferno #1” is almost a scene for scene recreation of that demo, which is essentially the prologue for the game. Clearly, not everyone who will be reading the comic series will have the played the demo or be buying the game, but most will. I find that in most cases, people who play the actual games are the ones buying these comic adaptations, because they’re looking for more details on the characters and worlds they experience in the games. There’s not much new to be found in the pages of this comic, which is a shame, since it carries the dreaded $3.99 price tag.
For those that haven’t read Dante Alighieri’s “Inferno,” it’s an epic poem about Dante’s journey with the poet Virgil through the Nine Circles of Hell. The upcoming video game from EA has reimagined Dante as a soldier in the Crusades, who makes his way into Hell in an effort to rescue the soul of his beloved and redeem himself for his own sins.
The story in the comic is told through the eyes of Beatrice, and follows pretty much the exact same storyline as the beginning of the game. Beatrice tells of how she and Dante pledged their eternal love for each other (and engaged in pre-marital sex) before he headed off to war. Beatrice and her family are subsequently attacked during a revolt, and Dante does not make it back in time to save her. As her soul is taken to Hell by Lucifer, Dante goes after them. He meets the spirit of the poet Virgil at the Gates of Hell, and must defeat the guardian of the Gates before he can pursue Beatrice further. The issue ends (just as the demo does) with Dante going through the Gates of Hell.
The story that Christos Gage crafts in Issue #1 is pretty shallow, and it’s exactly the same as the game. I was hoping for more backstory about Dante and Beatrice’s relationship, or the politics of the war and how Dante came to be involved. These are the elements that the game has added to their version of “Inferno,” and I thought I’d be reading more about them. Diego Latorre’s art is very abstract and dark, which lends to the tone of the issue, although it’s tough to identify with the characters and the world when you don’t get a concrete picture of it.
Overall, I was slightly disappointed with Issue #1 of “Dante’s Inferno.” I’m hoping that in the remaining five issues, the book will go beyond the details of the game and offer a deeper look into Dante and Beatrice’s relationship, and the events that led up to her murder.
2.5 out of 5 Circles of Hell
Maybe I shouldn’t have read the first issue of WildStorm’s new “Dante’s Inferno” series after having just played the PS3 demo of the game. Because “Dante’s Inferno #1” is almost a scene for scene recreation of that demo, which is essentially the prologue for the game. Clearly, not everyone who will be reading the comic series will have the played the demo or be buying the game, but most will. I find that in most cases, people who play the actual games are the ones buying these comic adaptations, because they’re looking for more details on the characters and worlds they experience in the games. There’s not much new to be found in the pages of this comic, which is a shame, since it carries the dreaded $3.99 price tag.
For those that haven’t read Dante Alighieri’s “Inferno,” it’s an epic poem about Dante’s journey with the poet Virgil through the Nine Circles of Hell. The upcoming video game from EA has reimagined Dante as a soldier in the Crusades, who makes his way into Hell in an effort to rescue the soul of his beloved and redeem himself for his own sins.
The story in the comic is told through the eyes of Beatrice, and follows pretty much the exact same storyline as the beginning of the game. Beatrice tells of how she and Dante pledged their eternal love for each other (and engaged in pre-marital sex) before he headed off to war. Beatrice and her family are subsequently attacked during a revolt, and Dante does not make it back in time to save her. As her soul is taken to Hell by Lucifer, Dante goes after them. He meets the spirit of the poet Virgil at the Gates of Hell, and must defeat the guardian of the Gates before he can pursue Beatrice further. The issue ends (just as the demo does) with Dante going through the Gates of Hell.
The story that Christos Gage crafts in Issue #1 is pretty shallow, and it’s exactly the same as the game. I was hoping for more backstory about Dante and Beatrice’s relationship, or the politics of the war and how Dante came to be involved. These are the elements that the game has added to their version of “Inferno,” and I thought I’d be reading more about them. Diego Latorre’s art is very abstract and dark, which lends to the tone of the issue, although it’s tough to identify with the characters and the world when you don’t get a concrete picture of it.
Overall, I was slightly disappointed with Issue #1 of “Dante’s Inferno.” I’m hoping that in the remaining five issues, the book will go beyond the details of the game and offer a deeper look into Dante and Beatrice’s relationship, and the events that led up to her murder.
2.5 out of 5 Circles of Hell
12-10-09: Why I'm Dropping...X-Force
by Brian LeTendre
The X-Men universe is like its own pocket world within the larger Marvel U. It’s a world I’ve admired from afar, but not having grown up reading about that world (I was more of a Spidey guy), it’s one that I find completely inaccessible. The X-Men universe is not a friendly one to new readers. I’ve tried several times to find a way in, only to end up running into hordes of obscure characters and convoluted plotlines that are so self-referential they require knowledge of the past 20 years of X-Men stories to follow. And yet, I continue to try and find a way in.
Which brings us to “X-Force.” When the series launched in February of 2008, I saw it as my latest opportunity to get a foot in the door of the X-Men universe. It was a team-based book (which I love), and the team was small enough that I was hopeful I’d be able to follow what was going on. Wolverine, Warpath, Wolfsbane and X-23 were the starting roster. I didn’t know a lot about Warpath, Wolfsbane or X-23, but I was willing to learn. Not to mention, the premise of a covert wetworks X-Men team was simple enough.
Boy was I wrong.
The first story arc had X-Force run an old enemy named Bastion and put his head on a Nimrod robot (I have no idea what a Nimrod robot is, by the way). This new Bastion leads the Purifiers, who are another group that hate mutants. The Bastion uses a technarch (who I only know about because of Annihilation Conquest) to reanimate dead villains from the X-Men’s past. Enter a bunch of guys I know nothing about, and the writers do nothing to explain, and we’re down the rabbit hole of another self-referential X-Men book.
But I hung on. I liked the idea of the fanatical Purifiers, and I was starting to get into the characters of Wolfsbane and X-23 (I found Warpath kind of boring). Unfortunately, the X-Force team’s roster started to expand (with Angel, Vanisher and Domino), as did the number of villains from the past, creating a snowball effect. I officially had no idea what was going on, when the book ran into the Messiah War storyline. That was a welcome reprieve, as I had been reading “Cable,” which is the one X-book that I don’t have trouble following. Once that brief crossover was done though, it was right back into chaos, as Selene (from the Hellfire Club) is pulling a page out of DC’s “Blackest Night” and resurrecting all of the X-Men’s old allies to fight against them—or something. I’m really not sure.
Anyway, my point is that within the first story arc of a new X-Men book, the writers (Kyle and Yost) did the same thing that almost every other new X-Men series does—alienates new readers. I’m starting to wonder if there are contractual bonuses for the number of references that an X-book has to storylines and characters that are more than ten years old. There must be. Because if there isn’t, the only reason to stay mired in what has come before is that you don’t have any new ideas. The sad thing is that because the X-Men have enough of a longtime fanbase, X-books don’t need to attract tons of new readers—they’ll sell fine if a decent segment of the existing base buys new titles.
So I bid you adieu, “X-Force.” I will continue my ongoing search for accessibility to the X-Men universe somewhere else. Having just subscribed to Marvel Digital Comics, perhaps I’ll check out the “Ultimate X-Men” line…
The X-Men universe is like its own pocket world within the larger Marvel U. It’s a world I’ve admired from afar, but not having grown up reading about that world (I was more of a Spidey guy), it’s one that I find completely inaccessible. The X-Men universe is not a friendly one to new readers. I’ve tried several times to find a way in, only to end up running into hordes of obscure characters and convoluted plotlines that are so self-referential they require knowledge of the past 20 years of X-Men stories to follow. And yet, I continue to try and find a way in.
Which brings us to “X-Force.” When the series launched in February of 2008, I saw it as my latest opportunity to get a foot in the door of the X-Men universe. It was a team-based book (which I love), and the team was small enough that I was hopeful I’d be able to follow what was going on. Wolverine, Warpath, Wolfsbane and X-23 were the starting roster. I didn’t know a lot about Warpath, Wolfsbane or X-23, but I was willing to learn. Not to mention, the premise of a covert wetworks X-Men team was simple enough.
Boy was I wrong.
The first story arc had X-Force run an old enemy named Bastion and put his head on a Nimrod robot (I have no idea what a Nimrod robot is, by the way). This new Bastion leads the Purifiers, who are another group that hate mutants. The Bastion uses a technarch (who I only know about because of Annihilation Conquest) to reanimate dead villains from the X-Men’s past. Enter a bunch of guys I know nothing about, and the writers do nothing to explain, and we’re down the rabbit hole of another self-referential X-Men book.
But I hung on. I liked the idea of the fanatical Purifiers, and I was starting to get into the characters of Wolfsbane and X-23 (I found Warpath kind of boring). Unfortunately, the X-Force team’s roster started to expand (with Angel, Vanisher and Domino), as did the number of villains from the past, creating a snowball effect. I officially had no idea what was going on, when the book ran into the Messiah War storyline. That was a welcome reprieve, as I had been reading “Cable,” which is the one X-book that I don’t have trouble following. Once that brief crossover was done though, it was right back into chaos, as Selene (from the Hellfire Club) is pulling a page out of DC’s “Blackest Night” and resurrecting all of the X-Men’s old allies to fight against them—or something. I’m really not sure.
Anyway, my point is that within the first story arc of a new X-Men book, the writers (Kyle and Yost) did the same thing that almost every other new X-Men series does—alienates new readers. I’m starting to wonder if there are contractual bonuses for the number of references that an X-book has to storylines and characters that are more than ten years old. There must be. Because if there isn’t, the only reason to stay mired in what has come before is that you don’t have any new ideas. The sad thing is that because the X-Men have enough of a longtime fanbase, X-books don’t need to attract tons of new readers—they’ll sell fine if a decent segment of the existing base buys new titles.
So I bid you adieu, “X-Force.” I will continue my ongoing search for accessibility to the X-Men universe somewhere else. Having just subscribed to Marvel Digital Comics, perhaps I’ll check out the “Ultimate X-Men” line…
12-8-09: Indego Blue #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
“Indego Blue” is an interesting look at a possible future for our world that features a main character you can really root for.
The future world of “Indego Blue” is one where the government’s obsession with creating the perfect soldier results in the fracturing of modern society. Scientists began splicing animal DNA with human beings, creating “transplants”—human/animal hybrids. While the government is creating some promising hybrids, splicing eventually makes its way to the black market, and soon there is an entire section of the population that is some form of “transplant.” The government decides that all transplants should be rounded up and disposed of. That’s when Indego Blue decides to go rogue and help other transplants like himself escape the government death squads. Indego is a dog/human hybrid with a James Bond-type persona, using his former FBI expertise to help those who are now in need. He’s aided by another transplant named Baxter (his ‘Q’) and two scientists who are trying to help him recover the memories he lost when he underwent his splicing.
In Issue #1, writers Robert James Russell and Jesse Young do a nice job of presenting the world and setting the stage for the rest of the series. The story moves along quickly, and even though we don’t know a lot about Indego yet, there’s enough detail that we can identify with what he’s trying to do. Howard Russell’s art gives the book an animated series feel, which actually lends itself well to the action-oriented story.
“Indego Blue” Issue #1 is a strong start to the series, and I’ll definitely be coming back for the next installment.
4 out of 5 Dog Days of the Future
From now until the New Year, you can get the first issue over at Drive Thru Comics for a mere $0.90! Click here to go to the product page and check it out.
“Indego Blue” is an interesting look at a possible future for our world that features a main character you can really root for.
The future world of “Indego Blue” is one where the government’s obsession with creating the perfect soldier results in the fracturing of modern society. Scientists began splicing animal DNA with human beings, creating “transplants”—human/animal hybrids. While the government is creating some promising hybrids, splicing eventually makes its way to the black market, and soon there is an entire section of the population that is some form of “transplant.” The government decides that all transplants should be rounded up and disposed of. That’s when Indego Blue decides to go rogue and help other transplants like himself escape the government death squads. Indego is a dog/human hybrid with a James Bond-type persona, using his former FBI expertise to help those who are now in need. He’s aided by another transplant named Baxter (his ‘Q’) and two scientists who are trying to help him recover the memories he lost when he underwent his splicing.
In Issue #1, writers Robert James Russell and Jesse Young do a nice job of presenting the world and setting the stage for the rest of the series. The story moves along quickly, and even though we don’t know a lot about Indego yet, there’s enough detail that we can identify with what he’s trying to do. Howard Russell’s art gives the book an animated series feel, which actually lends itself well to the action-oriented story.
“Indego Blue” Issue #1 is a strong start to the series, and I’ll definitely be coming back for the next installment.
4 out of 5 Dog Days of the Future
From now until the New Year, you can get the first issue over at Drive Thru Comics for a mere $0.90! Click here to go to the product page and check it out.
12-6-09: X-Babies #3 Review
by Brian LeTendre
With “X-Babies,” Gregg Shigiel and Jacob Chabot have created a book that is aimed at a younger audience without the usual dumbing down of the characters.
If you’re not familiar with the X-Babies (created by Chris Claremont and Art Adams), here’s the skinny: Mojo once turned all of the X-Men into kids, and then he made a clones of them after the real X-Men returned to normal. The adventures of the “X-Babies” are broadcast around the galaxy as one of Mojo’s more popular shows. The name is a bit of a misnomer though, as they are more like X-Toddlers, or X-First Graders. They argue, they banter, and they beat the tar out of bad guys—they just do it with more humor and less cussing than the real X-Men.
In the new "X-Babies" series, the X-Babies (Wolverine, Nightcrawler, Rogue, Colossus, Storm, Cyclops and Kitty Pride) find themselves imprisoned on Mojoworld, having been replaced by cute and cuddly versions of themselves on Mojo TV. They break out and try to find who’s responsible, and end up running into characters from all of the other shows on Mojo TV. Issue #3 has them finally confronting Mr. Veech, the man who has taken control of Mojoworld, as well as their new cutesy counterparts. A battle ensues, and the new X-Babies are much more of a challenge to the originals than they expect.
What’s fun about this series is that Shigiel is actually parodying many of today’s kids’ comics that have been really simplified for younger audiences. The cute and cuddly versions of the X-Babies are something you could actually see happening. I think one of the themes of this series is that the X-Babies have been around since the 80’s, and they’re not part of the new trend of sweet and sappy reimaginings of popular comic heroes.
Jacob Chabot, who Secret Identity fans know from his stellar “The Mighty Skullboy Army” work, does a great job here, especially since he’s drawing two completely different interpretations of the characters. His design of the X-Babies with slightly larger than normal heads gives the book a cartoonish feel without being unrealistic. The characters are very expressive, as you would imagine young kids to be, and there’s a lot of attention to detail in everything from the environments to the action.
I was pleasantly surprised by “X-Babies” #3, and I hope this series gets the recognition it deserves as an intelligent comic for younger readers.
4 out of 5 Mojo TV’s
For those wanting to find out more about the creators, you can check out Gregg Schigiel’s site www.hatterentertainment.com, and you can see “The Mighty Skullboy Army” and the rest of Jacob Chabot’s work over at www.beetlebugcomics.com.
With “X-Babies,” Gregg Shigiel and Jacob Chabot have created a book that is aimed at a younger audience without the usual dumbing down of the characters.
If you’re not familiar with the X-Babies (created by Chris Claremont and Art Adams), here’s the skinny: Mojo once turned all of the X-Men into kids, and then he made a clones of them after the real X-Men returned to normal. The adventures of the “X-Babies” are broadcast around the galaxy as one of Mojo’s more popular shows. The name is a bit of a misnomer though, as they are more like X-Toddlers, or X-First Graders. They argue, they banter, and they beat the tar out of bad guys—they just do it with more humor and less cussing than the real X-Men.
In the new "X-Babies" series, the X-Babies (Wolverine, Nightcrawler, Rogue, Colossus, Storm, Cyclops and Kitty Pride) find themselves imprisoned on Mojoworld, having been replaced by cute and cuddly versions of themselves on Mojo TV. They break out and try to find who’s responsible, and end up running into characters from all of the other shows on Mojo TV. Issue #3 has them finally confronting Mr. Veech, the man who has taken control of Mojoworld, as well as their new cutesy counterparts. A battle ensues, and the new X-Babies are much more of a challenge to the originals than they expect.
What’s fun about this series is that Shigiel is actually parodying many of today’s kids’ comics that have been really simplified for younger audiences. The cute and cuddly versions of the X-Babies are something you could actually see happening. I think one of the themes of this series is that the X-Babies have been around since the 80’s, and they’re not part of the new trend of sweet and sappy reimaginings of popular comic heroes.
Jacob Chabot, who Secret Identity fans know from his stellar “The Mighty Skullboy Army” work, does a great job here, especially since he’s drawing two completely different interpretations of the characters. His design of the X-Babies with slightly larger than normal heads gives the book a cartoonish feel without being unrealistic. The characters are very expressive, as you would imagine young kids to be, and there’s a lot of attention to detail in everything from the environments to the action.
I was pleasantly surprised by “X-Babies” #3, and I hope this series gets the recognition it deserves as an intelligent comic for younger readers.
4 out of 5 Mojo TV’s
For those wanting to find out more about the creators, you can check out Gregg Schigiel’s site www.hatterentertainment.com, and you can see “The Mighty Skullboy Army” and the rest of Jacob Chabot’s work over at www.beetlebugcomics.com.
11-25-09: G-Man: Cape Crisis #4 Review
by Brian LeTendre
After the explosive end to “G-Man: CapeCrisis #3,” the fate of the two super-powered brothers was in question. Great Man appeared dead, and G-Man was nowhere to be found. Thankfully for fans of the super siblings, all is not as bleak as it seemed. Issue #4 deals with the fallout of the major magic explosion that was caused by Great Man splintering the magic that gives he and his brother G-Man their powers. Both Great Man and G-Man make a visit to the spirit world while their bodies lie unconscious. Billy Demon, Tan Man, Sparky, Sun Trooper and Kid Thunder help a recovering Great Man make amends for ripping everyone off, and G-Man's journey back to his friends gives a nod to “Where the Wild Things Are.” Once everyone's back safe and sound at Glendof's castle, there's still the question of how the boys are going to get their powers back. Good thing there's one more issue of CapeCrisis left for us to find out.
As we've talked about on the show, “G-Man: CapeCrisis” is a very fun series filled with memorable characters. Chris Giarrusso's ability to write humor in a way that pays off for kids and adults is unmatched. This is a book you can read with your kids and enjoy together, and how many books can you say that about these days?
4.5 out of 5 Ponds of Resurrection
If you haven't gone over to www.chrisgcomics.com yet, you really need to. Not only will you be able to read up on all the G-Man characters, but there's a great gallery, some flash games, and some great animated toons that showcase Chris' great sense of humor. Check it out!
After the explosive end to “G-Man: CapeCrisis #3,” the fate of the two super-powered brothers was in question. Great Man appeared dead, and G-Man was nowhere to be found. Thankfully for fans of the super siblings, all is not as bleak as it seemed. Issue #4 deals with the fallout of the major magic explosion that was caused by Great Man splintering the magic that gives he and his brother G-Man their powers. Both Great Man and G-Man make a visit to the spirit world while their bodies lie unconscious. Billy Demon, Tan Man, Sparky, Sun Trooper and Kid Thunder help a recovering Great Man make amends for ripping everyone off, and G-Man's journey back to his friends gives a nod to “Where the Wild Things Are.” Once everyone's back safe and sound at Glendof's castle, there's still the question of how the boys are going to get their powers back. Good thing there's one more issue of CapeCrisis left for us to find out.
As we've talked about on the show, “G-Man: CapeCrisis” is a very fun series filled with memorable characters. Chris Giarrusso's ability to write humor in a way that pays off for kids and adults is unmatched. This is a book you can read with your kids and enjoy together, and how many books can you say that about these days?
4.5 out of 5 Ponds of Resurrection
If you haven't gone over to www.chrisgcomics.com yet, you really need to. Not only will you be able to read up on all the G-Man characters, but there's a great gallery, some flash games, and some great animated toons that showcase Chris' great sense of humor. Check it out!
11-23-09: The Tick: New Series Issue #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
While a lot of fans were probably introduced to The Tick via the 1994 animated series on Fox, his comic roots go all the way back to 1986, when a little known artist by the name of Ben Edlund created him as a mascot for the New England Comics newsletter. A couple years later, The Tick got his own comic series, and the rest is history.
While the TV show featured a somewhat different supporting cast than the comics, they both showcased the offbeat humor of The Tick and his crime-fighting sidekick Arthur as they encountered allies and adversaries that parodied many of the superheroes and villains we grew up with.
For the past 16 years, The Tick has appeared in several limited series and holiday specials, but with “The Tick: New Series,” he's finally retunred to ongoing comics. The series will be a bi-monthly book, and will feature all new adventures of The Tick and Arthur, written by Benito Cerenoand drawn by Les McClaine.
Issue #1 functions as a bit of a holiday special in and of itself, as the main story involves The Tick attending a Christmas party th the Comet Club and exchanging gifts with the likes of Rubber Ducky, Bumbling Bee , Caped Cod and Running Guy. Meanwhile, Arthur is relegated to the Sidekick's Lounge, where he recounts old Christmas adventures for the other sidekick, featuring Professor Chromedome, Chairface Chippendale and Scarf Ace. The issue does a nice job of introducing fans f the animated series to some of the comic's supporting cast, as well as providing some familiar faces and places. There's some great laughs, and Cereno has no problem matching the tone of the characters established by previous writers. Les McClaine's art is a great match for the characters as well, and fans of the animated series will feel right at home with the look of the book.
All in all, “The Tick: New Series” #1 is a great way to welcome old and new fans to The Tick universe. Highly recommended.
4.5 out of 5 Man-Eating Cows
While a lot of fans were probably introduced to The Tick via the 1994 animated series on Fox, his comic roots go all the way back to 1986, when a little known artist by the name of Ben Edlund created him as a mascot for the New England Comics newsletter. A couple years later, The Tick got his own comic series, and the rest is history.
While the TV show featured a somewhat different supporting cast than the comics, they both showcased the offbeat humor of The Tick and his crime-fighting sidekick Arthur as they encountered allies and adversaries that parodied many of the superheroes and villains we grew up with.
For the past 16 years, The Tick has appeared in several limited series and holiday specials, but with “The Tick: New Series,” he's finally retunred to ongoing comics. The series will be a bi-monthly book, and will feature all new adventures of The Tick and Arthur, written by Benito Cerenoand drawn by Les McClaine.
Issue #1 functions as a bit of a holiday special in and of itself, as the main story involves The Tick attending a Christmas party th the Comet Club and exchanging gifts with the likes of Rubber Ducky, Bumbling Bee , Caped Cod and Running Guy. Meanwhile, Arthur is relegated to the Sidekick's Lounge, where he recounts old Christmas adventures for the other sidekick, featuring Professor Chromedome, Chairface Chippendale and Scarf Ace. The issue does a nice job of introducing fans f the animated series to some of the comic's supporting cast, as well as providing some familiar faces and places. There's some great laughs, and Cereno has no problem matching the tone of the characters established by previous writers. Les McClaine's art is a great match for the characters as well, and fans of the animated series will feel right at home with the look of the book.
All in all, “The Tick: New Series” #1 is a great way to welcome old and new fans to The Tick universe. Highly recommended.
4.5 out of 5 Man-Eating Cows
11-19-09: Iron Man & The Armor Wars #4
by Brian LeTendre
As I’ve mentioned on the podcast before, I think “Iron Man & The Armor Wars” is a great series for fans of the recent movie, or those are tired of Tony’s darker exploits in the regular Marvel U over the past couple years. Issue #4 offers a great conclusion to a series that has gotten stronger with each issue.
The “Iron Man & The Armor Wars” series began with Tony trying to move his business to the West Coast and shift Stark Industries’ focus away from weapons manufacturing. Unfortunately for him, a group of Neo-Soviets have taken all of his Iron Man armors and are using them to hunt him down and make his life miserable. Issue #3 saw Tony being seemingly betrayed by Rhodey, and he’s now in the clutches of the Red Barbarian, the leader of the Neo-Soviets.
Issue #4 is a well-paced wrap-up to the series, as Tony gets a little help from an unexpected ally and is able to turn the tables on the Red Barbarian. He also finds out that it wasn’t Rhodey who betrayed him, and he feels guilty for ever questioning their friendship. As the book winds down, Tony is heading back East after promoting Rhodey to oversee the Peacekeeper Armor project with Pepper’s help. There’s also a great cameo from the real Doom at the end of the book, which serves as a nice end cap to the story.
I’ve loved this series from the get go, and I actually felt the series became more accessible with each issue. Issue #4 features a great recap of the first three, and every character in the story is either introduced by name or explained in the context of what’s going on. You could easily pick up the last issue of this series and enjoy it without feeling lost.
I also couldn’t review this series without giving a round of applause to Craig Rousseau, who was an absolutely perfect fit for the book. He handles the action sequences with ease, and his slightly cartoonish style punctuates the humor throughout the series, particularly the way he draws the characters’ reactions to what’s happening around them. He also has a great talent for varying the amount of detail in the foreground and background that ensures you are seeing a particular panel the way he wants you too. Everything just flows along well with the story.
The highest compliment I can pay to Caramagna and Rousseau’s work is that I want to see more of Tony Stark and Co. in the world that they’ve created. I’d love to see this team get a run on “Marvel Adventures Iron Man,” or at least the opportunity to do a few more stories like Armor Wars, as they’ve created a fun version of Iron Man that works for audiences of all ages.
4.5 out of 5 Super-Hot Darkstars
As I’ve mentioned on the podcast before, I think “Iron Man & The Armor Wars” is a great series for fans of the recent movie, or those are tired of Tony’s darker exploits in the regular Marvel U over the past couple years. Issue #4 offers a great conclusion to a series that has gotten stronger with each issue.
The “Iron Man & The Armor Wars” series began with Tony trying to move his business to the West Coast and shift Stark Industries’ focus away from weapons manufacturing. Unfortunately for him, a group of Neo-Soviets have taken all of his Iron Man armors and are using them to hunt him down and make his life miserable. Issue #3 saw Tony being seemingly betrayed by Rhodey, and he’s now in the clutches of the Red Barbarian, the leader of the Neo-Soviets.
Issue #4 is a well-paced wrap-up to the series, as Tony gets a little help from an unexpected ally and is able to turn the tables on the Red Barbarian. He also finds out that it wasn’t Rhodey who betrayed him, and he feels guilty for ever questioning their friendship. As the book winds down, Tony is heading back East after promoting Rhodey to oversee the Peacekeeper Armor project with Pepper’s help. There’s also a great cameo from the real Doom at the end of the book, which serves as a nice end cap to the story.
I’ve loved this series from the get go, and I actually felt the series became more accessible with each issue. Issue #4 features a great recap of the first three, and every character in the story is either introduced by name or explained in the context of what’s going on. You could easily pick up the last issue of this series and enjoy it without feeling lost.
I also couldn’t review this series without giving a round of applause to Craig Rousseau, who was an absolutely perfect fit for the book. He handles the action sequences with ease, and his slightly cartoonish style punctuates the humor throughout the series, particularly the way he draws the characters’ reactions to what’s happening around them. He also has a great talent for varying the amount of detail in the foreground and background that ensures you are seeing a particular panel the way he wants you too. Everything just flows along well with the story.
The highest compliment I can pay to Caramagna and Rousseau’s work is that I want to see more of Tony Stark and Co. in the world that they’ve created. I’d love to see this team get a run on “Marvel Adventures Iron Man,” or at least the opportunity to do a few more stories like Armor Wars, as they’ve created a fun version of Iron Man that works for audiences of all ages.
4.5 out of 5 Super-Hot Darkstars
11-14-09: Lemuria #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
In Lemuria #1, creator Adam Prosser introduces us to a world that was once ruled by the might lemurs. That is, until the lemurs all became lazy and directionless and were passed by man on his way up the evolutionary scale, relegating them to a much lower status in society. It’s against this humorous backdrop that Prosser crafts two tales of sword and sorcery that are filled with action and laughs.
In the first tale, a high-school aged sorceress in training daydreams about living a life of adventure. She gets her wish when an overweight barbarian and her lemur sidekick show up at the girl’s school to rob it of treasure. The two end up uncovering an evil cult that was sacrificing students to a demon god (who happens to speak like a surfer dude) and hijinks ensue.
The second story, a warrior rides into town looking for a man rumored to be ‘the bravest in the world.’ Instead he finds an effeminate tailor that sends him on a fetch quest for supplies, which turns out to be much more difficult a quest than it sounds.
Prosser writes great dialogue for the characters in his world, and his art style matches the humor of the book perfectly. It’s clear from just these two tales that the world of Lemuria is filled with colorful characters that all have their own stories to tell. I’m looking forward to meeting more of them in the future.
You can download the first issue of Lemuria over at Drive Thru Comics for a mere 75 cents by clicking here to head to the product page.
In Lemuria #1, creator Adam Prosser introduces us to a world that was once ruled by the might lemurs. That is, until the lemurs all became lazy and directionless and were passed by man on his way up the evolutionary scale, relegating them to a much lower status in society. It’s against this humorous backdrop that Prosser crafts two tales of sword and sorcery that are filled with action and laughs.
In the first tale, a high-school aged sorceress in training daydreams about living a life of adventure. She gets her wish when an overweight barbarian and her lemur sidekick show up at the girl’s school to rob it of treasure. The two end up uncovering an evil cult that was sacrificing students to a demon god (who happens to speak like a surfer dude) and hijinks ensue.
The second story, a warrior rides into town looking for a man rumored to be ‘the bravest in the world.’ Instead he finds an effeminate tailor that sends him on a fetch quest for supplies, which turns out to be much more difficult a quest than it sounds.
Prosser writes great dialogue for the characters in his world, and his art style matches the humor of the book perfectly. It’s clear from just these two tales that the world of Lemuria is filled with colorful characters that all have their own stories to tell. I’m looking forward to meeting more of them in the future.
You can download the first issue of Lemuria over at Drive Thru Comics for a mere 75 cents by clicking here to head to the product page.
11-8-09: Why I'm On The Fence About...Hack/Slash
by Brian LeTendre
In theory, "Hack/Slash" should be my favorite monthly book. As a horror fan, the concept of a hot girl and her hulking, deformed partner hunting classic b-movie slashers sounds incredible. Throw in plenty of gore, sexual overtones and toilet humor, and it's a recipe for success. So why, after 26 issues, am I on the verge of dropping this title from my monthly pull list?
Two of the biggest reasons this title's on the bubble are the inconsistent writing and artwork. In terms of the art, "Hack/Slash" has had a revolving door of artists from the get go. It's not surprising that some of their styles work for me and some don't My biggest problem is that after 26 issues, I think it's time to settle on a look for the book and stick with it. I've enjoyed artist Bryan Baugh's last few issues, but I'm not sure he would be a great fit for the long haul. The inconsistent art puts a lot of pressure on the writing to carry the book. Creator Tim Seeley handles all of the writing duties, and in Cassie and Vlad, he's created two great characters that I've grown to really care about. The supporting cast leaves something to be desired though, and I often feel like the subplots with the other members of Hack/Slash Inc. are just filler, as they're never deep enough to get you to care about the other characters. The book is also very self-referential, and the occasional editor's note isn't enough to help new readers understand who some of the recurring characters are, or why they should care. The recent arc in issues 26-27 is a great example of that.
Finally, there's the cost factor. At $3.50 per issue (and $5.50 for the recent 25th), inconsistency is something this book cannot afford in order to stay on my pull list.
So why have I stuck with the book for this long? Because when it's good, it's really good. The storyline involving Cassie's search for her father was great, and arcs like Tub Club (Issues #7-9) and The Coldest Dish (Issue #11) were well crafted tales. "Hack/Slash" has also done a great job with crossovers, particularly the “Re-Animator” one, in which Seely wove Herbert West into Cassie's family issues seamlessly. And as I mentioned before, Cassie and Vlad are such great characters that I continually give this book the benefit of the doubt.
In the end though, something's got to give. I need a regular artist to stabilize the look of the book, and either better subplots or a trimmed down supporting cast in order to keep "Hack/Slash" on my pull list. I'll give it until issue 30 (three more issues) and then I'll make my final decision.
If you're a current or former "Hack/Slash" reader, what do you think? Head to the boards and let me know.
In theory, "Hack/Slash" should be my favorite monthly book. As a horror fan, the concept of a hot girl and her hulking, deformed partner hunting classic b-movie slashers sounds incredible. Throw in plenty of gore, sexual overtones and toilet humor, and it's a recipe for success. So why, after 26 issues, am I on the verge of dropping this title from my monthly pull list?
Two of the biggest reasons this title's on the bubble are the inconsistent writing and artwork. In terms of the art, "Hack/Slash" has had a revolving door of artists from the get go. It's not surprising that some of their styles work for me and some don't My biggest problem is that after 26 issues, I think it's time to settle on a look for the book and stick with it. I've enjoyed artist Bryan Baugh's last few issues, but I'm not sure he would be a great fit for the long haul. The inconsistent art puts a lot of pressure on the writing to carry the book. Creator Tim Seeley handles all of the writing duties, and in Cassie and Vlad, he's created two great characters that I've grown to really care about. The supporting cast leaves something to be desired though, and I often feel like the subplots with the other members of Hack/Slash Inc. are just filler, as they're never deep enough to get you to care about the other characters. The book is also very self-referential, and the occasional editor's note isn't enough to help new readers understand who some of the recurring characters are, or why they should care. The recent arc in issues 26-27 is a great example of that.
Finally, there's the cost factor. At $3.50 per issue (and $5.50 for the recent 25th), inconsistency is something this book cannot afford in order to stay on my pull list.
So why have I stuck with the book for this long? Because when it's good, it's really good. The storyline involving Cassie's search for her father was great, and arcs like Tub Club (Issues #7-9) and The Coldest Dish (Issue #11) were well crafted tales. "Hack/Slash" has also done a great job with crossovers, particularly the “Re-Animator” one, in which Seely wove Herbert West into Cassie's family issues seamlessly. And as I mentioned before, Cassie and Vlad are such great characters that I continually give this book the benefit of the doubt.
In the end though, something's got to give. I need a regular artist to stabilize the look of the book, and either better subplots or a trimmed down supporting cast in order to keep "Hack/Slash" on my pull list. I'll give it until issue 30 (three more issues) and then I'll make my final decision.
If you're a current or former "Hack/Slash" reader, what do you think? Head to the boards and let me know.
10-25-09: Misery Loves Sherman (AAAARGH Comics)
by Matman
I’m not normally a ‘strip guy’! And I have a very hard time relaxing as I read web comics. So when it was announced that Chris Eliopoulos’ Misery Loves Sherman was being collected into trade form, I was very excited. I love his work on ‘Franklin Richards Son Of A Genius’ so much because of the simplicity of the characters and the scale of trouble he gets into.
When we first meet Sherman we are introduced to a little boy who is not having a very good time of it. His father is a bit hard on him, his sister is a bully, his mother is distant and his imaginary alien friends are not too helpful. He’s picked on in school and trouble just seems to find him. His issues are enough that we can relate to most of them (like alienation) and not become saddened by it. Sherman is a likeable kid that you hope will get a chance to shine at least once, but you still laugh when he doesn’t. The humor of Misery Loves Sherman is easy to get, easy to follow and easy to understand at any age. The characters are strong and stand up on their own very well. Sherman doesn’t need to be in every strip for it to be funny. From Benny and Zort (his alien friends), Melvin (an action figure), and my favorite, Death or as he’s known here, Mort! All can carry the jokes and move the story by themselves. A great ensemble cast.
This is an incredible collection. This book collects the first year of strips from www.miserylovessherman.com and what is nice is that you don’t notice the growing pains as it went along; it starts out strong and never stops. You do see Chris’ art become smoother and storytelling become sharper, but the stories are all good. Misery Loves Sherman from AAAARGH! Comics is a book that young readers will love (my daughters loved the yapping dog and the boy who peed in the pool) and older more seasoned comic readers will as well. If you like the style and pacing of Chris Giarrusso (G – Man) and Art Baltazar (Patrick The Wolf Boy), than you’ll love Misery Loves Sherman. It’s fun for fun’s sake!
Matman Rating: 5 out of 5 Plastic Growth Hormones
I’m not normally a ‘strip guy’! And I have a very hard time relaxing as I read web comics. So when it was announced that Chris Eliopoulos’ Misery Loves Sherman was being collected into trade form, I was very excited. I love his work on ‘Franklin Richards Son Of A Genius’ so much because of the simplicity of the characters and the scale of trouble he gets into.
When we first meet Sherman we are introduced to a little boy who is not having a very good time of it. His father is a bit hard on him, his sister is a bully, his mother is distant and his imaginary alien friends are not too helpful. He’s picked on in school and trouble just seems to find him. His issues are enough that we can relate to most of them (like alienation) and not become saddened by it. Sherman is a likeable kid that you hope will get a chance to shine at least once, but you still laugh when he doesn’t. The humor of Misery Loves Sherman is easy to get, easy to follow and easy to understand at any age. The characters are strong and stand up on their own very well. Sherman doesn’t need to be in every strip for it to be funny. From Benny and Zort (his alien friends), Melvin (an action figure), and my favorite, Death or as he’s known here, Mort! All can carry the jokes and move the story by themselves. A great ensemble cast.
This is an incredible collection. This book collects the first year of strips from www.miserylovessherman.com and what is nice is that you don’t notice the growing pains as it went along; it starts out strong and never stops. You do see Chris’ art become smoother and storytelling become sharper, but the stories are all good. Misery Loves Sherman from AAAARGH! Comics is a book that young readers will love (my daughters loved the yapping dog and the boy who peed in the pool) and older more seasoned comic readers will as well. If you like the style and pacing of Chris Giarrusso (G – Man) and Art Baltazar (Patrick The Wolf Boy), than you’ll love Misery Loves Sherman. It’s fun for fun’s sake!
Matman Rating: 5 out of 5 Plastic Growth Hormones
10-20-09: 28 Days later #3 Review (BOOM!)
by Brian LeTendre
Michael Alan Nelson and Declan Shalvey are doing a great job I capturing the feel of “28 Days Later,” and issue #3 continues to deliver a well-paced story focused on one of the movie’s most interesting characters.
“28 Days Later” revolves around Selena, one of the few survivors of the first movie. She gets recruited by a reporter to go into the infected zone and get the ‘real’ story of what’s happening with the infection. Against her better judgment, she accompanies a team into the zone, and things go bad from the start. Issue #3 sees one of the team get infected, and when Selena has to do what’s necessary, the rest of the group starts to fall apart. Unfortunately for them, the zombies don’t have a lot of sympathy for them. The issue races to a finish as the group tries to rendezvous with a supply boat and make it off the island. They do, but their respite is short-lived, as they end up running into the military, who probably have some questions and may shoot first before asking any of them.
Nelson keeps the book moving along well, and Shalvey does a nice job with the action and the gore. Selena was probably my favorite character from the movie, and this series builds on the idea of the hardened veteran who’ll do whatever it takes to survive. I’m in for the whole run on this one.
4.5 out of 5 Rage Viruses
Michael Alan Nelson and Declan Shalvey are doing a great job I capturing the feel of “28 Days Later,” and issue #3 continues to deliver a well-paced story focused on one of the movie’s most interesting characters.
“28 Days Later” revolves around Selena, one of the few survivors of the first movie. She gets recruited by a reporter to go into the infected zone and get the ‘real’ story of what’s happening with the infection. Against her better judgment, she accompanies a team into the zone, and things go bad from the start. Issue #3 sees one of the team get infected, and when Selena has to do what’s necessary, the rest of the group starts to fall apart. Unfortunately for them, the zombies don’t have a lot of sympathy for them. The issue races to a finish as the group tries to rendezvous with a supply boat and make it off the island. They do, but their respite is short-lived, as they end up running into the military, who probably have some questions and may shoot first before asking any of them.
Nelson keeps the book moving along well, and Shalvey does a nice job with the action and the gore. Selena was probably my favorite character from the movie, and this series builds on the idea of the hardened veteran who’ll do whatever it takes to survive. I’m in for the whole run on this one.
4.5 out of 5 Rage Viruses
10-6-09: Haunt # 1 (Image Comics)
When you team up creators like Todd McFarlane, Robert Kirkman and Ryan Ottley this can be big (BIG) news. After all Robert Kirkman has set the bar very high with Walking Dead and Todd McFarlane? When comic fans talk about great runs, many mention Spawn # 1 – 20 as some of the best ever written and drawn. And Ryan Ottley does some incredible art on Invincible (also a Kirkman book). So would this team mesh?
Haunt # 1 starts out with a completely creepy feel. Much like early Spawn had a back alley grimy feel to it, so does this book. Here we meet Kurt and Daniel Kilgore, two brothers who have their secrets, issues and some deep secrets. Kurt is a secret agent who is on the run and he seeks out his brother who is a priest. In times of trouble a priest can be a good person to seek out, right? Wrong! Daniel is an absolute disaster when it comes to his personal life. Following the death of Kurt, his body fuses with Daniel to create Haunt! What happens next is anyone’s guess.
First of all, the origin may have been a bit ‘forced’, but the possibilities are endless. These brothers hated each other and now are forced to work together within the same body. The character and basic story have that McFarlane feel. Fans of Walking Dead will recognize Kirkman’s pacing and dialogue; very straight forward. Haunt # 1 has some deep peripheral elements with some eye catching visuals. Who would have thought Ryan Ottley could draw so dark, morbid and bloody…yes bloody. Fans of his may be in for a bit of a shock.
Overall, Haunt # 1 is a strong first issue and I hope readers give it a fair chance. Sometimes all – star creative teams are a lot of flash and no substance, but this book has something to sink your teeth into. Take a chance on this one. Grab one of the five variant covers, and enjoy a good comic!
Matman Rating – 4 out of 5 Headless Gunmen
Haunt # 1 starts out with a completely creepy feel. Much like early Spawn had a back alley grimy feel to it, so does this book. Here we meet Kurt and Daniel Kilgore, two brothers who have their secrets, issues and some deep secrets. Kurt is a secret agent who is on the run and he seeks out his brother who is a priest. In times of trouble a priest can be a good person to seek out, right? Wrong! Daniel is an absolute disaster when it comes to his personal life. Following the death of Kurt, his body fuses with Daniel to create Haunt! What happens next is anyone’s guess.
First of all, the origin may have been a bit ‘forced’, but the possibilities are endless. These brothers hated each other and now are forced to work together within the same body. The character and basic story have that McFarlane feel. Fans of Walking Dead will recognize Kirkman’s pacing and dialogue; very straight forward. Haunt # 1 has some deep peripheral elements with some eye catching visuals. Who would have thought Ryan Ottley could draw so dark, morbid and bloody…yes bloody. Fans of his may be in for a bit of a shock.
Overall, Haunt # 1 is a strong first issue and I hope readers give it a fair chance. Sometimes all – star creative teams are a lot of flash and no substance, but this book has something to sink your teeth into. Take a chance on this one. Grab one of the five variant covers, and enjoy a good comic!
Matman Rating – 4 out of 5 Headless Gunmen
10-2-09: The Unknown: The Devil Made Flesh #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
In my years of comic reading, I honestly cannot remember a run of amazing storytelling like the one Mark Waid is on right now. The most amazing thing to me is that he's doing it on multiple properties, from long-established books like “Amazing Spider-Man,” to completely new creations like “Irredeemable.” And he's hitting home runs every time out.
Take “The Unknown” for example. He created the book about Catherine Allingham, the world's greatest detective, who also happens to be terminally ill. The original four-issue series detailed Catherine's preoccupation with finding out what happens after death, as she investigated a mystery about a device that was said to be able to measure the human soul. In the end, she didn't find all the answers she was looking for, but certainly found some promising leads. She also found a new partner in James Doyle, a savvy bouncer who loved a good mystery almost as much as she did. The series ended with the promise of further adventures, and Waid did not waste any time in delivering a new “Unknown” series, the first issue of which hit shelves this week.
“The Unknown: The Devil Made Flesh” #1 takes the few things we thought we knew about the main characters and turns them upside down. The book opens in Italy a year after the original series, and Catherine and James are no longer together. The fact that Catherine is still alive is a mystery unto itself, as she should have been dead six months ago. She's got a new bodyguard, and she doesn't even remember who James is. James himself can barely remember the last several months, as something happened to both he and Catherine when they were investigating a series of small town murders. Their memories seem to have been wiped, and James is trying to put the pieces together.
Waid does an excellent job of putting you in James' shoes, as much like him, we're trying to get our bearing and figure out just what the heck has happened to him and Catherine. The story unfolds methodically, and the ending is one that I did not see coming, especially in a first issue. Minck Oosterveer returns on art, which keeps the look and feel of the “Unknown” universe consistent with the last series. He also does an excellent job of capturing emotion through facial expressions, particularly James' struggle with seeing Catherine again.
“The Unknown: The Devil Made Flesh” #1 is a great read and another home run for Mark Waid.
5 out of 5 Shocking Twists
In my years of comic reading, I honestly cannot remember a run of amazing storytelling like the one Mark Waid is on right now. The most amazing thing to me is that he's doing it on multiple properties, from long-established books like “Amazing Spider-Man,” to completely new creations like “Irredeemable.” And he's hitting home runs every time out.
Take “The Unknown” for example. He created the book about Catherine Allingham, the world's greatest detective, who also happens to be terminally ill. The original four-issue series detailed Catherine's preoccupation with finding out what happens after death, as she investigated a mystery about a device that was said to be able to measure the human soul. In the end, she didn't find all the answers she was looking for, but certainly found some promising leads. She also found a new partner in James Doyle, a savvy bouncer who loved a good mystery almost as much as she did. The series ended with the promise of further adventures, and Waid did not waste any time in delivering a new “Unknown” series, the first issue of which hit shelves this week.
“The Unknown: The Devil Made Flesh” #1 takes the few things we thought we knew about the main characters and turns them upside down. The book opens in Italy a year after the original series, and Catherine and James are no longer together. The fact that Catherine is still alive is a mystery unto itself, as she should have been dead six months ago. She's got a new bodyguard, and she doesn't even remember who James is. James himself can barely remember the last several months, as something happened to both he and Catherine when they were investigating a series of small town murders. Their memories seem to have been wiped, and James is trying to put the pieces together.
Waid does an excellent job of putting you in James' shoes, as much like him, we're trying to get our bearing and figure out just what the heck has happened to him and Catherine. The story unfolds methodically, and the ending is one that I did not see coming, especially in a first issue. Minck Oosterveer returns on art, which keeps the look and feel of the “Unknown” universe consistent with the last series. He also does an excellent job of capturing emotion through facial expressions, particularly James' struggle with seeing Catherine again.
“The Unknown: The Devil Made Flesh” #1 is a great read and another home run for Mark Waid.
5 out of 5 Shocking Twists
9-16-09: Awakening #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
You may have heard of “Awakening” before. The title actually started as a 10-issue series that began publication in 2007. Three critically-acclaimed issues of the planned 10-issue series were originally published before the restructuring of Archaia Studios Press hit. When the company started up their publishing schedule again in June, “Awakening” emerged as a two-volume graphic novel series, the aforementioned issues being collected with two other chapters to form volume one. In this review I’ll be talking about the first issue of the series, which is chapter one of the collected edition.
What Nick Taplanski and Alex Eckman-Lawn have created with “Awakening” is a unique take on the zombie genre that has a distinct noir flavor. The story is set in the small town of Park Falls, and follows former detective Derrick Peters. As the first issue opens, Peters is doing some private investigation work for a woman whose husband has gone missing. The details of the man’s disappearance are not adding up, and Peters eventually sees similarities between his case and some other disappearances that have occurred recently. A shady pharmaceutical company, corpses with bite marks on them, and shadowy government intervention all point to something much more sinister than just some random disappearances.
Taplanski opens this series with a well-paced first issue that sets the table nicely for the rest of the story. In addition to the main mystery of what’s happening to people in town, each of the core characters has unanswered questions of their own, like why Peters is no longer on the force, or just what made the ‘town crazy’ lose it in the first place. Alex Eckman-Lawn’s artwork is dark and surreal, and it reminded me of some of Ashley Wood’s work, particularly the stuff he did on the “Metal Gear Solid” books. His style fits the story well.
Issue #1 of “Awakening” does an excellent job of sucking you in and raising a lot of questions about what’s to come in the rest of the series. Whether you’re a horror fan or you just love a good mystery, there’s a lot to sink your teeth into with this one.
The first three single issues of “Awakening” are up on Drive thru Comics Right now. You can check out the first issue for only 99 cents. To head over to the product page, click here.
4 out of 5 Town Crazies
You may have heard of “Awakening” before. The title actually started as a 10-issue series that began publication in 2007. Three critically-acclaimed issues of the planned 10-issue series were originally published before the restructuring of Archaia Studios Press hit. When the company started up their publishing schedule again in June, “Awakening” emerged as a two-volume graphic novel series, the aforementioned issues being collected with two other chapters to form volume one. In this review I’ll be talking about the first issue of the series, which is chapter one of the collected edition.
What Nick Taplanski and Alex Eckman-Lawn have created with “Awakening” is a unique take on the zombie genre that has a distinct noir flavor. The story is set in the small town of Park Falls, and follows former detective Derrick Peters. As the first issue opens, Peters is doing some private investigation work for a woman whose husband has gone missing. The details of the man’s disappearance are not adding up, and Peters eventually sees similarities between his case and some other disappearances that have occurred recently. A shady pharmaceutical company, corpses with bite marks on them, and shadowy government intervention all point to something much more sinister than just some random disappearances.
Taplanski opens this series with a well-paced first issue that sets the table nicely for the rest of the story. In addition to the main mystery of what’s happening to people in town, each of the core characters has unanswered questions of their own, like why Peters is no longer on the force, or just what made the ‘town crazy’ lose it in the first place. Alex Eckman-Lawn’s artwork is dark and surreal, and it reminded me of some of Ashley Wood’s work, particularly the stuff he did on the “Metal Gear Solid” books. His style fits the story well.
Issue #1 of “Awakening” does an excellent job of sucking you in and raising a lot of questions about what’s to come in the rest of the series. Whether you’re a horror fan or you just love a good mystery, there’s a lot to sink your teeth into with this one.
The first three single issues of “Awakening” are up on Drive thru Comics Right now. You can check out the first issue for only 99 cents. To head over to the product page, click here.
4 out of 5 Town Crazies
9-11-09: Red Herring # 2 (Wildstorm / DC)
by the Matman
No capes or crossovers, just good old fashion conspiracy and political intrigue. Oh yea…and aliens and cover-ups. Sounds like just a typical day in Washington, DC, right? Well, almost.
Welcome to the insane world of Maggie McGuffin and the second incredible issue of Red Herring from DC / Wildstorm. Following the events in the first issue, Maggie is not only on the run but being aided by ‘Red’ Herring. On the outside ‘Red’ seems to know what is going on and is one step ahead of the agents looking for Maggie. On the inside it’s hard to tell, but right now he’s Maggie’s only chance of surviving. In the second issue, the pace slows down a bit which is good after the breakneck speed of the first. We get in a little deeper to the alien cover up and start to see who are the players involved. And something is up with Canada…
Writer Dave Tischman (Greatest Hits) has picked up a thing or two from working with Howard Chaykin. But where Chaykin can sometimes be heavy handed with politics and one dimensional with secondary players, Tischman is much more in control of the entire playing field. He has built up characters that you may not like, but are very interested in what makes them tick. Sure I’m a little creeped out by Meyer Weiner and Penny Candy, but I want to know more about them. Yes, Congressman Damorge Channel may be a complete letch, but I’d vote for this guy! You need to read this one carefully to enjoy all the subtle jokes and humoristic tones he puts on every page. The other half of the creative duo is artist Philip Bond who is the perfect fit for this book. His style is very British (before I even knew he was British) and his panels flows perfectly. His style is very much like Tim Sale and Eduardo Risso (100 Bullets); rounded and full of expression. Inker David Hahn does a fine job holding everything tight and clean. Nothing gets lost in the panels; you feel depth and know where things begin and end. Colorist Guy Major rounds out the visual team with flair. The colors are so important at setting the mood of the book especially with the single color backgrounds.
If you are looking for a different kind of book; one that makes you think, laugh and question our leadership, than Red Herring is the series for you! Well written and beautifully drawn, this could be the sleeper hit of the year.
Matman Rating: 4.5 out of 5 tips for Harry!
No capes or crossovers, just good old fashion conspiracy and political intrigue. Oh yea…and aliens and cover-ups. Sounds like just a typical day in Washington, DC, right? Well, almost.
Welcome to the insane world of Maggie McGuffin and the second incredible issue of Red Herring from DC / Wildstorm. Following the events in the first issue, Maggie is not only on the run but being aided by ‘Red’ Herring. On the outside ‘Red’ seems to know what is going on and is one step ahead of the agents looking for Maggie. On the inside it’s hard to tell, but right now he’s Maggie’s only chance of surviving. In the second issue, the pace slows down a bit which is good after the breakneck speed of the first. We get in a little deeper to the alien cover up and start to see who are the players involved. And something is up with Canada…
Writer Dave Tischman (Greatest Hits) has picked up a thing or two from working with Howard Chaykin. But where Chaykin can sometimes be heavy handed with politics and one dimensional with secondary players, Tischman is much more in control of the entire playing field. He has built up characters that you may not like, but are very interested in what makes them tick. Sure I’m a little creeped out by Meyer Weiner and Penny Candy, but I want to know more about them. Yes, Congressman Damorge Channel may be a complete letch, but I’d vote for this guy! You need to read this one carefully to enjoy all the subtle jokes and humoristic tones he puts on every page. The other half of the creative duo is artist Philip Bond who is the perfect fit for this book. His style is very British (before I even knew he was British) and his panels flows perfectly. His style is very much like Tim Sale and Eduardo Risso (100 Bullets); rounded and full of expression. Inker David Hahn does a fine job holding everything tight and clean. Nothing gets lost in the panels; you feel depth and know where things begin and end. Colorist Guy Major rounds out the visual team with flair. The colors are so important at setting the mood of the book especially with the single color backgrounds.
If you are looking for a different kind of book; one that makes you think, laugh and question our leadership, than Red Herring is the series for you! Well written and beautifully drawn, this could be the sleeper hit of the year.
Matman Rating: 4.5 out of 5 tips for Harry!
9-6-09: Exiles #6 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Oh Exiles, I hardly knew ye. Just when I felt like I was getting acclimated to Jeff Parker's take on the merry band of reality-hopping heroes, Marvel pulls the plug on the series. I could go into a diatribe about how ridiculous it is that they only gave it six issues, but I'll save that for the podcast. The important thing is that at least Marvel gave Parker and artist Salva EAspin a little bit of notice and a few extra pages to not only wrap up the first story arc, but also answer some questions that go back to the origins of the first Exiles team.
In the opening page recap, Parker uses Morph to break the fourth wall and actually speak about the cancellation of the series. Then we see the team put the finishing touches on a mission they had left incomplete a few issues ago. After that, it's off to a reality where's nothing is wrong where the team can chill out and get a little R&R. During their brief respite, Polaris figures out that Blink has been lying to them since she became part of the team. They incapacitate Blink and follow the signal from her Tallus to the Panoptichron, the citadel outside of normal space and time which is basically the HQ for the entities that oversee the Exiles. It's here that the new team finally gets some answers about the origins of the Exiles, and their true purpose.
I'm not going to ruin those answers for you (I'll probably do that on the podcast), but I certainly found them to be pretty satisfying. Parker does a nice job of reaching back into the history of the Exiles and putting together some plausible explanations for the different reimaginings of the book over the years. He also leaves the door open for someone else to come down the road and change things if they need to.
The book ends on an up note, but it's really bittersweet, as you can see that Parker had some big ideas for this series that he was forced to reveal in the final issue. I don't know when we'll see the Exiles again, but I can't help feel that fans have missed out on what was to be an excellent run of stories from Parker and Espin. With all of the books Marvel craps out on a weekly bases, I have a hard time reconciling that this one deserved to be canceled.
4.5 out of 5 Gone Before Their Times
Oh Exiles, I hardly knew ye. Just when I felt like I was getting acclimated to Jeff Parker's take on the merry band of reality-hopping heroes, Marvel pulls the plug on the series. I could go into a diatribe about how ridiculous it is that they only gave it six issues, but I'll save that for the podcast. The important thing is that at least Marvel gave Parker and artist Salva EAspin a little bit of notice and a few extra pages to not only wrap up the first story arc, but also answer some questions that go back to the origins of the first Exiles team.
In the opening page recap, Parker uses Morph to break the fourth wall and actually speak about the cancellation of the series. Then we see the team put the finishing touches on a mission they had left incomplete a few issues ago. After that, it's off to a reality where's nothing is wrong where the team can chill out and get a little R&R. During their brief respite, Polaris figures out that Blink has been lying to them since she became part of the team. They incapacitate Blink and follow the signal from her Tallus to the Panoptichron, the citadel outside of normal space and time which is basically the HQ for the entities that oversee the Exiles. It's here that the new team finally gets some answers about the origins of the Exiles, and their true purpose.
I'm not going to ruin those answers for you (I'll probably do that on the podcast), but I certainly found them to be pretty satisfying. Parker does a nice job of reaching back into the history of the Exiles and putting together some plausible explanations for the different reimaginings of the book over the years. He also leaves the door open for someone else to come down the road and change things if they need to.
The book ends on an up note, but it's really bittersweet, as you can see that Parker had some big ideas for this series that he was forced to reveal in the final issue. I don't know when we'll see the Exiles again, but I can't help feel that fans have missed out on what was to be an excellent run of stories from Parker and Espin. With all of the books Marvel craps out on a weekly bases, I have a hard time reconciling that this one deserved to be canceled.
4.5 out of 5 Gone Before Their Times
9-4-09: FTL #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Ian Sharman and Orang Utan comics have put together a rock solid anthology of sci-fi, fantasy and horror stories with “FTL” #1. “Faster Than Light” serves up five unique stories of different sizes that are all satisfying and give the book a consistent feel of quality throughout.
Scapegoat by Dwight Macpherson with pencils by Riccardo Latina is one of the longer stories in the book, and it presents a bleak look at the future after war breaks out between mankind and robots. A human soldier that tries to bring an end to the war only validates the reasons for the robot uprising in the first place. “Prey” by Trey Wickwire and John Cboins is a bite-size tale that examines the role of predator and prey. With “The Long Forgotten,” Ian Sharman and Izzy Davis offer up an interesting take on both the beginning and end of life on earth. Cherie Donovan and Melissa Hudson’s “Obsession” tells the story of a vampire that gives a young woman the gift of revenge after taking her life. Finally, Peter Rogers and Nuno Nobre’s “Bloodstain” follows one of the original vampires of the world who’s tired and ready to accept his fate…until he finds out what that fate actually is.
It’s nice to see an anthology book that doesn’t get stuck on one particular genre. I enjoyed the diversity of stories in “FTL,” and since the book hits to all fields, there should be at least one story in issue #1 that resonates with people. My personal favorites in this issue were “The Long Forgotten” and “Obsession,” but there were no throw-away stories in the bunch. “FTL” #1 is a book I have no trouble recommending to fans of all different genres.
You can find “FTL” over at Drive Thru Comics by clicking here.
4 out of 5 Angry Dragons
Ian Sharman and Orang Utan comics have put together a rock solid anthology of sci-fi, fantasy and horror stories with “FTL” #1. “Faster Than Light” serves up five unique stories of different sizes that are all satisfying and give the book a consistent feel of quality throughout.
Scapegoat by Dwight Macpherson with pencils by Riccardo Latina is one of the longer stories in the book, and it presents a bleak look at the future after war breaks out between mankind and robots. A human soldier that tries to bring an end to the war only validates the reasons for the robot uprising in the first place. “Prey” by Trey Wickwire and John Cboins is a bite-size tale that examines the role of predator and prey. With “The Long Forgotten,” Ian Sharman and Izzy Davis offer up an interesting take on both the beginning and end of life on earth. Cherie Donovan and Melissa Hudson’s “Obsession” tells the story of a vampire that gives a young woman the gift of revenge after taking her life. Finally, Peter Rogers and Nuno Nobre’s “Bloodstain” follows one of the original vampires of the world who’s tired and ready to accept his fate…until he finds out what that fate actually is.
It’s nice to see an anthology book that doesn’t get stuck on one particular genre. I enjoyed the diversity of stories in “FTL,” and since the book hits to all fields, there should be at least one story in issue #1 that resonates with people. My personal favorites in this issue were “The Long Forgotten” and “Obsession,” but there were no throw-away stories in the bunch. “FTL” #1 is a book I have no trouble recommending to fans of all different genres.
You can find “FTL” over at Drive Thru Comics by clicking here.
4 out of 5 Angry Dragons
8-29-09: Crime Wave Volume One (Three J Productions)
by Matman
Before we get this review going, let’s just get this out in the open. Despite how much we look alike, writer Carl Herring, Jr. is not a relative of mine. Sure we may be able to trace back to a relative or two (an original Herring), but we are not related. This review isn’t nepotism at its finest, but an honest review of a very good book.
Crime Wave Anthology Volume One is a collection of three short stories written by Carl Herring Jr. and drawn by Scott E. Ambruson and Chris Torres. Two of the stories feature the FBI team of Chase and Hunt who are a likeable and very believable duo. Since each story is about 6 or 7 pages, Carl wastes no time getting right into the action and seems to miss the pitfalls of short story telling. Dialogue between the characters is believable and very well written.
If you are a fan of shows like CSI and Law And Order you will instantly fall right into the book. The feel and action is written very much like a TV drama. Since I’m not a fan of those shows, I expected a little trouble getting into it, but I didn’t. Here is a sneak peek… with no spoilers!
How far up does corruption go in Preston, Georgia? Read ‘Above The Law’ and see just how high the ladder it goes. This is a quick story that takes advantage of every panel to tell a satisfying tale. This is my favorite of the three stories.
What do you do when an imprisoned serial killer takes over a prison? In ‘End Game’, Agent Chase must confront an old enemy in a battle of wits with the lives of hostages in the balance. Not only does Chase have to fight inmates all the way in, but his every moved is being watched.
In ‘Safe House’, the house isn’t so safe! When a witness is in protection from the mob, can Clayton Rio and the hot Rio Mendez protect him? The art in this one is excellent especially the painted coloring of Ed Traquino who also does all the lettering. Action, adventure and a hot girl in (and not in) a towel… nice!
With an eye catching cover by Secret Identity pal Norm Breyfogle, Crime Wave is an excellent read even if the genre doesn’t interest you. Crime Wave Volume One is a full color comic that is suggested for mature readers.
Matman Rating: 4 out of 5 Crime Sprees
For more information on Crime Wave and all things Herring, please go to www.threejproductions.com
Before we get this review going, let’s just get this out in the open. Despite how much we look alike, writer Carl Herring, Jr. is not a relative of mine. Sure we may be able to trace back to a relative or two (an original Herring), but we are not related. This review isn’t nepotism at its finest, but an honest review of a very good book.
Crime Wave Anthology Volume One is a collection of three short stories written by Carl Herring Jr. and drawn by Scott E. Ambruson and Chris Torres. Two of the stories feature the FBI team of Chase and Hunt who are a likeable and very believable duo. Since each story is about 6 or 7 pages, Carl wastes no time getting right into the action and seems to miss the pitfalls of short story telling. Dialogue between the characters is believable and very well written.
If you are a fan of shows like CSI and Law And Order you will instantly fall right into the book. The feel and action is written very much like a TV drama. Since I’m not a fan of those shows, I expected a little trouble getting into it, but I didn’t. Here is a sneak peek… with no spoilers!
How far up does corruption go in Preston, Georgia? Read ‘Above The Law’ and see just how high the ladder it goes. This is a quick story that takes advantage of every panel to tell a satisfying tale. This is my favorite of the three stories.
What do you do when an imprisoned serial killer takes over a prison? In ‘End Game’, Agent Chase must confront an old enemy in a battle of wits with the lives of hostages in the balance. Not only does Chase have to fight inmates all the way in, but his every moved is being watched.
In ‘Safe House’, the house isn’t so safe! When a witness is in protection from the mob, can Clayton Rio and the hot Rio Mendez protect him? The art in this one is excellent especially the painted coloring of Ed Traquino who also does all the lettering. Action, adventure and a hot girl in (and not in) a towel… nice!
With an eye catching cover by Secret Identity pal Norm Breyfogle, Crime Wave is an excellent read even if the genre doesn’t interest you. Crime Wave Volume One is a full color comic that is suggested for mature readers.
Matman Rating: 4 out of 5 Crime Sprees
For more information on Crime Wave and all things Herring, please go to www.threejproductions.com
8-23-09: Power Girl #4 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Seriously, is there a creative team out there that has more fun making comic books than Palmiotti, Gray and Conner? Four issues into the new “Power Girl” series, this may be my favorite DC book going right now.
After defeating the Ultra-Humanite in the last issue, Power Girl is having a girls’ night out and taking in a movie with Terra. The interaction between the two characters in the theater is priceless, as we find out that Power Girl likes the same kind of horror movies as I do (rated ‘R’ vs. ‘PG-13’) and Terra is too scared to look at the screen most of the time. On the way home they run into some villains that look like they stumbled into our world straight out of my last D&D campaign. Troll headbutts and giant stone death grips ensue as Power Girl and Terra take care of business, capping off their evening on the town with a good punch-up.
In short, I love this book. Conner’s art combined with Palmiotti and Gray’s storytelling create an infectiously fun book that will remind you why you love comics in the first place. Go out and support this book.
5 out of 5 Actioneers
Seriously, is there a creative team out there that has more fun making comic books than Palmiotti, Gray and Conner? Four issues into the new “Power Girl” series, this may be my favorite DC book going right now.
After defeating the Ultra-Humanite in the last issue, Power Girl is having a girls’ night out and taking in a movie with Terra. The interaction between the two characters in the theater is priceless, as we find out that Power Girl likes the same kind of horror movies as I do (rated ‘R’ vs. ‘PG-13’) and Terra is too scared to look at the screen most of the time. On the way home they run into some villains that look like they stumbled into our world straight out of my last D&D campaign. Troll headbutts and giant stone death grips ensue as Power Girl and Terra take care of business, capping off their evening on the town with a good punch-up.
In short, I love this book. Conner’s art combined with Palmiotti and Gray’s storytelling create an infectiously fun book that will remind you why you love comics in the first place. Go out and support this book.
5 out of 5 Actioneers
8-14-09: Bone Chiller Review
by Brian LeTendre
Robert Heske’s “Bone Chiller” is a collection of 10 modern tales of horror that offers a little something for everyone. Heske wrote all ten of the short stories himself, and teamed up with a variety of artists on the collection.
The first story is entitled “Her First Day Alone,” and it takes a frightening look into post-partum depression. The mother in the story descends into madness as she thinks about her child having to leave her and go to daycare. Things get pretty ugly from there, and the fact that extreme incidents have occurred in the real world around post-partum depression add another level of creepy to this tale. Monty Borror does a nice job on the art chores, particularly in the haunted look that he creates for the mother, which gets worse and worse as the story wears on.
The rest of the collection features shorter stories, and my two favorites of the bunch are “False Pretenses” and “Dead Dog.” “False Pretenses” features a cautionary tale about internet dating with a twist. “Dead Dog” is the story of a burgeoning serial killer with a god complex that gets him into trouble. Both of the stories are illustrated by a guy named “Zue,” and his stuff jumps of the page. His style is gorgeous and he does a great job with facial expressions and giving characters emotion. I will definitely be looking for more stuff from him.
As a horror fan, I enjoyed all of the stories in Heske’s collection, and fans of “Creepy” or “Tales from the Crypt” should find a lot to like here as well. Twelve bucks for over 140 pages of content isn’t too shabby, either. For more info on the book, head to http://www.coldbloodedchillers.com, and if you want to download the book as a PDF for the ridiculous price of $2.99, head over to the product page at Drive Thru Comics by clicking here.
3.5 out of 5 Tales of the Macabre
Robert Heske’s “Bone Chiller” is a collection of 10 modern tales of horror that offers a little something for everyone. Heske wrote all ten of the short stories himself, and teamed up with a variety of artists on the collection.
The first story is entitled “Her First Day Alone,” and it takes a frightening look into post-partum depression. The mother in the story descends into madness as she thinks about her child having to leave her and go to daycare. Things get pretty ugly from there, and the fact that extreme incidents have occurred in the real world around post-partum depression add another level of creepy to this tale. Monty Borror does a nice job on the art chores, particularly in the haunted look that he creates for the mother, which gets worse and worse as the story wears on.
The rest of the collection features shorter stories, and my two favorites of the bunch are “False Pretenses” and “Dead Dog.” “False Pretenses” features a cautionary tale about internet dating with a twist. “Dead Dog” is the story of a burgeoning serial killer with a god complex that gets him into trouble. Both of the stories are illustrated by a guy named “Zue,” and his stuff jumps of the page. His style is gorgeous and he does a great job with facial expressions and giving characters emotion. I will definitely be looking for more stuff from him.
As a horror fan, I enjoyed all of the stories in Heske’s collection, and fans of “Creepy” or “Tales from the Crypt” should find a lot to like here as well. Twelve bucks for over 140 pages of content isn’t too shabby, either. For more info on the book, head to http://www.coldbloodedchillers.com, and if you want to download the book as a PDF for the ridiculous price of $2.99, head over to the product page at Drive Thru Comics by clicking here.
3.5 out of 5 Tales of the Macabre
8-8-09: Witch Hunter/Night One-Shot Review
by Brian LeTendre
Monarch Comics and Jester Press have joined forces to put out a one-shot featuring Vincent Ferrante’s “Witch Hunter” and Troy Hasbrouck’s “Night” characters. The story follows vampire FBI agent Sabrina Voght and her werewolf sidekick Skinner as they’re investigating a rash of child disappearances at a school. They run into Witch Hunter disguised as a janitor, who’s there trying to spoil the plans of the Scarlet Circle, an evil cult that has members in every world and dimension. Working together, the trio find out that the Scarlet Circle have allied themselves with a vampire god that seems to be recuperating from injury by absorbing the essence of the kidnapped children. Plenty of punch-ups ensue as Vought, Skinner and Witch Hunter have to disconnect the vampire god from his lifelines, and Sabrina almost loses herself to bloodlust before being saved by her two colleagues. The story ends with a nice twist, as it seems the vampire god’s purpose was not what it originally seemed to be.
Ferrante and Hasbrouck make a good team, as the interaction between their characters feels natural, and they handle the reasons for the characters encountering each other well. I haven’t read Night before, but artist Elias Martins does a great job of capturing Witch hunter’s look and the action sequences are well done. Perry McCants, who’s no stranger to the “Witch Hunter” book does a nice job with the coloring, particularly during the scenes with the vampire god.
Overall, “Witch Hunter / Night” is a well-crafted crossover, and I wouldn’t mind seeing these characters together again in the future. I’m definitely going to give “Night” a try, as I like what I’ve seen so far.
You can download this comic at Drive Thru Comics for $1.99 (that’s $2.51 off the print issue price). Click here to go to the product page.
4 out of 5 Self-destructing Elves
Monarch Comics and Jester Press have joined forces to put out a one-shot featuring Vincent Ferrante’s “Witch Hunter” and Troy Hasbrouck’s “Night” characters. The story follows vampire FBI agent Sabrina Voght and her werewolf sidekick Skinner as they’re investigating a rash of child disappearances at a school. They run into Witch Hunter disguised as a janitor, who’s there trying to spoil the plans of the Scarlet Circle, an evil cult that has members in every world and dimension. Working together, the trio find out that the Scarlet Circle have allied themselves with a vampire god that seems to be recuperating from injury by absorbing the essence of the kidnapped children. Plenty of punch-ups ensue as Vought, Skinner and Witch Hunter have to disconnect the vampire god from his lifelines, and Sabrina almost loses herself to bloodlust before being saved by her two colleagues. The story ends with a nice twist, as it seems the vampire god’s purpose was not what it originally seemed to be.
Ferrante and Hasbrouck make a good team, as the interaction between their characters feels natural, and they handle the reasons for the characters encountering each other well. I haven’t read Night before, but artist Elias Martins does a great job of capturing Witch hunter’s look and the action sequences are well done. Perry McCants, who’s no stranger to the “Witch Hunter” book does a nice job with the coloring, particularly during the scenes with the vampire god.
Overall, “Witch Hunter / Night” is a well-crafted crossover, and I wouldn’t mind seeing these characters together again in the future. I’m definitely going to give “Night” a try, as I like what I’ve seen so far.
You can download this comic at Drive Thru Comics for $1.99 (that’s $2.51 off the print issue price). Click here to go to the product page.
4 out of 5 Self-destructing Elves
8-6-09: G-Man: Cape Crisis #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
For anyone who’s not familiar with Chris Giarrusso’s “G-Man,” series revolves around the misadventures of Mikey G and his brother Dave, a couple of super-powered siblings. Mikey gained superpowers one day when he cut up his family’s magic blanket and made a cape out of it, dubbing himself “G-Man.” Not to be outdone, Dave snags one of the blanket scraps and makes a belt out of it, the naming himself “Great-Man.” The character origins and a series of strips were collected in 2004’s “G-Man: Learning to Fly,” which I would recommend that everyone pick up. A G-Man collection that includes the original one-shot was released in May by Image, and it also features a G-Man Christmas story and a bunch of other extras.
On August 12th, a brand new, 5-issue miniseries called “G-Man: Cape Crisis” will be hitting stores, and for the first time, Giarrusso is exploring the G-Man universe in a full-length storyline. This story involves a bunch of neighborhood kids finding out about the magic blanket that G-Man’s cape is made out of. They get their hands on the remaining scraps of material and…..well, I’ll let you read the story, but rest assured, hilarity ensues.
The first issue of this series does a nice job of catching new readers up on the origin of G-Man’s powers, as well as brining in other members of the supporting cast. As always, Giarrusso’s writing is filled with humor that both adults and kids will get something out of. In particular, the interactions between G-Man and his brother Dave (Great-Man) are hysterical, and very familiar to any of us with siblings. The art is fantastic, and Marvel fans will instantly recognize Chris’ signature style.
In addition to the full length story, the issue has several back-up strips, including Baltazar and Franco’s “Patrick the Wolf-Boy,” Chris Eliopoulos’ “Misery Loves Sherman” and Jacob Chabot’s “The Mighty Skullboy Army.” All of the back-ups fit well with the tone of the book, and will hopefully lead to people checking out some of the great work Giarrusso’s pals are doing. As icing on the cake, the preview cover for issue two is based on classic Atari 2600 box art, which is worth an extra point on the review score by itself.
All in all, “G-Man: Cape Crisis” #1 is an excellent all-ages book that fans of any genre should enjoy. I highly recommend picking this one up, and if lots of people support it, we’ll be lucky enough to see more G-Man series in the future.
6 out of 5 Magic Blankets
For anyone who’s not familiar with Chris Giarrusso’s “G-Man,” series revolves around the misadventures of Mikey G and his brother Dave, a couple of super-powered siblings. Mikey gained superpowers one day when he cut up his family’s magic blanket and made a cape out of it, dubbing himself “G-Man.” Not to be outdone, Dave snags one of the blanket scraps and makes a belt out of it, the naming himself “Great-Man.” The character origins and a series of strips were collected in 2004’s “G-Man: Learning to Fly,” which I would recommend that everyone pick up. A G-Man collection that includes the original one-shot was released in May by Image, and it also features a G-Man Christmas story and a bunch of other extras.
On August 12th, a brand new, 5-issue miniseries called “G-Man: Cape Crisis” will be hitting stores, and for the first time, Giarrusso is exploring the G-Man universe in a full-length storyline. This story involves a bunch of neighborhood kids finding out about the magic blanket that G-Man’s cape is made out of. They get their hands on the remaining scraps of material and…..well, I’ll let you read the story, but rest assured, hilarity ensues.
The first issue of this series does a nice job of catching new readers up on the origin of G-Man’s powers, as well as brining in other members of the supporting cast. As always, Giarrusso’s writing is filled with humor that both adults and kids will get something out of. In particular, the interactions between G-Man and his brother Dave (Great-Man) are hysterical, and very familiar to any of us with siblings. The art is fantastic, and Marvel fans will instantly recognize Chris’ signature style.
In addition to the full length story, the issue has several back-up strips, including Baltazar and Franco’s “Patrick the Wolf-Boy,” Chris Eliopoulos’ “Misery Loves Sherman” and Jacob Chabot’s “The Mighty Skullboy Army.” All of the back-ups fit well with the tone of the book, and will hopefully lead to people checking out some of the great work Giarrusso’s pals are doing. As icing on the cake, the preview cover for issue two is based on classic Atari 2600 box art, which is worth an extra point on the review score by itself.
All in all, “G-Man: Cape Crisis” #1 is an excellent all-ages book that fans of any genre should enjoy. I highly recommend picking this one up, and if lots of people support it, we’ll be lucky enough to see more G-Man series in the future.
6 out of 5 Magic Blankets
7-31-09: Silber Minicomics Reviews
by Brian LeTendre
I have not had too much experience with minicomics in the past, so I was excited to check out writer Brian John Mitchell’s line of minicomics under the Silber Media banner. Each comic is about the size of a matchbook and sells for $1. Most of the pages feature one panel with text below them, giving them the feel of a small storybook. After reading each of the four titles Mitchell is currently writing, I was impressed with his ability to pack a good amount of narrative into such a small package.
Here’s a rundown of the four titles I read:
“Just a Man” is a Western tale of a farmer that is out for vengeance after his family killed by people looking to get his land. The story is very reminiscent of some classic westerns (Unforgiven for example), but Mitchell does a great job of drawing you in with the main character’s tragedy, and also giving you plenty of payoff before the issue is over. The art by Andrew White is raw and really carries the emotion of the main character. This one was my favorite of the bunch.
“Worms” is sort of a sci-fi horror story about a woman who is the subject of some grisly experiments, which involve some kind of worms being injected into her bloodstream. I read issue #4, and it seems to be a turning point in the story, as the woman rises up against her captors, presumably tapping into some power that she’s developed because of the experiments. Kimberly Traub, a tattoo artist by trade, provides the art for this story, and it has an abstract, nightmarish quality to it that creeped me out (in a good way).
“XO” follows the story of a hitman, and issue #5 is a flashback tale of how he got started in his life of killing for hire. I enjoyed the dark humor of the book, and the origin story is ironic and funny. Melissa Spence Gardener’s art is solid and will appeal to more traditional comic books fans.
“Lost Kisses” is definitely the most personal book out of the four, as Mitchell takes a self-deprecating look at his own feelings and attitudes. He also provides the stick-figure art on the book, which gives it the feel of a diary entry. With issues #9 and #10, he explores his relationships with people, love and hate, and his own need (or lack thereof) for approval.
Brian John Mitchell definitely knows how to tell good stories within the parameters of a minicomic, and he’s paired himself up with artists that fit well with each individual title. I am interested in reading more of each of the four titles, and I’ll probably check out some of Silber Media’s other stuff as well. At $1 apiece, you certainly get your money’s worth. To see these comics and more, head to http://www.silbermedia.com/comics.
4 out of 5 Size Doesn’t Matters
I have not had too much experience with minicomics in the past, so I was excited to check out writer Brian John Mitchell’s line of minicomics under the Silber Media banner. Each comic is about the size of a matchbook and sells for $1. Most of the pages feature one panel with text below them, giving them the feel of a small storybook. After reading each of the four titles Mitchell is currently writing, I was impressed with his ability to pack a good amount of narrative into such a small package.
Here’s a rundown of the four titles I read:
“Just a Man” is a Western tale of a farmer that is out for vengeance after his family killed by people looking to get his land. The story is very reminiscent of some classic westerns (Unforgiven for example), but Mitchell does a great job of drawing you in with the main character’s tragedy, and also giving you plenty of payoff before the issue is over. The art by Andrew White is raw and really carries the emotion of the main character. This one was my favorite of the bunch.
“Worms” is sort of a sci-fi horror story about a woman who is the subject of some grisly experiments, which involve some kind of worms being injected into her bloodstream. I read issue #4, and it seems to be a turning point in the story, as the woman rises up against her captors, presumably tapping into some power that she’s developed because of the experiments. Kimberly Traub, a tattoo artist by trade, provides the art for this story, and it has an abstract, nightmarish quality to it that creeped me out (in a good way).
“XO” follows the story of a hitman, and issue #5 is a flashback tale of how he got started in his life of killing for hire. I enjoyed the dark humor of the book, and the origin story is ironic and funny. Melissa Spence Gardener’s art is solid and will appeal to more traditional comic books fans.
“Lost Kisses” is definitely the most personal book out of the four, as Mitchell takes a self-deprecating look at his own feelings and attitudes. He also provides the stick-figure art on the book, which gives it the feel of a diary entry. With issues #9 and #10, he explores his relationships with people, love and hate, and his own need (or lack thereof) for approval.
Brian John Mitchell definitely knows how to tell good stories within the parameters of a minicomic, and he’s paired himself up with artists that fit well with each individual title. I am interested in reading more of each of the four titles, and I’ll probably check out some of Silber Media’s other stuff as well. At $1 apiece, you certainly get your money’s worth. To see these comics and more, head to http://www.silbermedia.com/comics.
4 out of 5 Size Doesn’t Matters
7-27-09: Dark Reign: Fantastic Four #5 Review
by Brian LeTendre
“Dark Reign: Fantastic Four” is the only Dark Reign tie-in that I've picked up so far, primarily because it's a lead-in to Jonathan Hickman's upcoming run on Fantastic Four. I'm happy to say that with issue #5, Hickman has set up some very interesting themes to be explored in future FF issues.
“Dark Reign: FF” follows the story of Reed Richards looking at the post Secret Invasion landscape and trying to figure out just where things went wrong in the Marvel U that brought about the current status quo. Was it Civil War? Was it the Illuminati? Reed wants to figure out where things went wrong so he can fix it. To that end, he's built “The Bridge,” a device that allows him to explore alternate realities to see if they've fared any better than the 616 universe. His use of the device sends Sue, Johnny and Ben through a series of alternate realities, while Franklin and Valeria are left alone in the BaxterBuilding to fend for themselves against Norman Osborne, who's trying to shut down the Fantastic Four.
Issue #5 of the series sees the kids defeat Norman and Reed return everyone to the current reality. There's an interesting showdown with Norman and a nice family moment, but the real payoff for this series is the table that Hickman sets for his FF run. In using the Bridge, Reed has run into some mysterious figures that seem to share his desire to 'find a better way.' While we don't see much of this group, they'll be showing up in Hickman's run for sure. There's also an interesting story thread started when Reed lies to Sue, telling her he's dismantled the Bridge, only to go behind her back and reassemble it. The issue ends with a short preview of Hickman and Eaglesham's first FF issue, which continues along the theme that Reed blames himself for everything that's gone wrong, and he believes it's his responsibility to fix it.
I enjoyed this series and I am really looking forward to the next chapter of the Fantastic Four. This is a good place to jump on the title if you've been wanting to get into it.
4 out of 5 Family Matters
“Dark Reign: Fantastic Four” is the only Dark Reign tie-in that I've picked up so far, primarily because it's a lead-in to Jonathan Hickman's upcoming run on Fantastic Four. I'm happy to say that with issue #5, Hickman has set up some very interesting themes to be explored in future FF issues.
“Dark Reign: FF” follows the story of Reed Richards looking at the post Secret Invasion landscape and trying to figure out just where things went wrong in the Marvel U that brought about the current status quo. Was it Civil War? Was it the Illuminati? Reed wants to figure out where things went wrong so he can fix it. To that end, he's built “The Bridge,” a device that allows him to explore alternate realities to see if they've fared any better than the 616 universe. His use of the device sends Sue, Johnny and Ben through a series of alternate realities, while Franklin and Valeria are left alone in the BaxterBuilding to fend for themselves against Norman Osborne, who's trying to shut down the Fantastic Four.
Issue #5 of the series sees the kids defeat Norman and Reed return everyone to the current reality. There's an interesting showdown with Norman and a nice family moment, but the real payoff for this series is the table that Hickman sets for his FF run. In using the Bridge, Reed has run into some mysterious figures that seem to share his desire to 'find a better way.' While we don't see much of this group, they'll be showing up in Hickman's run for sure. There's also an interesting story thread started when Reed lies to Sue, telling her he's dismantled the Bridge, only to go behind her back and reassemble it. The issue ends with a short preview of Hickman and Eaglesham's first FF issue, which continues along the theme that Reed blames himself for everything that's gone wrong, and he believes it's his responsibility to fix it.
I enjoyed this series and I am really looking forward to the next chapter of the Fantastic Four. This is a good place to jump on the title if you've been wanting to get into it.
4 out of 5 Family Matters
7-25-09: Timestorm 2009-2099 #3 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Sigh. I just don't understand it. Between 1992 and 1998, hundreds of 2099 comics created a highly detailed vision of a possible future for the Marvel U. Unfortunately, through three issues of the “Timestorm” miniseries, Brian Reed and company have failed to tap into what made the 2099 universe great in the first place: the characters.
The premise of this new series is that Tyler Stone of Alchemax is using a time altering device for some mysterious purpose. He uses the Punisher of 2099 as a pawn, sending him back in time, where he shoots both Spider-Man and Wolverine. Instead of being dead, they are transported to 2099 (with alittle help from Doom), where a catastrophic time/space event is occurring due to Tyler Stone's use of said time altering device. Now Wolverine and Spidey must team up with the heroes of the 2099 universe to save the day.
At first I thought my main problem with this series was the re-imagining of the 2099 characters and their origins. A younger Miguel O'Hara, thousands of Hulks, X-Men that are amalgamations of their previous 2099 counterparts, etc. As the series has gone on however, it's not the new spin on the characters that bothers me, it's that none of these new characters are very interesting. The 616 Spidey and Wolverine are the stars of this show, and they completely overshadow any of the 2099 characters, including Spider-Man 2099. It's because of this that the story feels much more like a “What-If?” one shot than a reboot of a universe Marvel plans on utilizing again in the future.
I am a huge fan of Brian Reed, but I really feel like this series has been a big missed opportunity on Marvel's part to bring back a universe that could be the next Ultimate line. Sadly, I don't think anyone will care enough about these characters to want to see them anytime in the near future (no pun intended).
2 out of 5 Wasted Opportunities
Sigh. I just don't understand it. Between 1992 and 1998, hundreds of 2099 comics created a highly detailed vision of a possible future for the Marvel U. Unfortunately, through three issues of the “Timestorm” miniseries, Brian Reed and company have failed to tap into what made the 2099 universe great in the first place: the characters.
The premise of this new series is that Tyler Stone of Alchemax is using a time altering device for some mysterious purpose. He uses the Punisher of 2099 as a pawn, sending him back in time, where he shoots both Spider-Man and Wolverine. Instead of being dead, they are transported to 2099 (with alittle help from Doom), where a catastrophic time/space event is occurring due to Tyler Stone's use of said time altering device. Now Wolverine and Spidey must team up with the heroes of the 2099 universe to save the day.
At first I thought my main problem with this series was the re-imagining of the 2099 characters and their origins. A younger Miguel O'Hara, thousands of Hulks, X-Men that are amalgamations of their previous 2099 counterparts, etc. As the series has gone on however, it's not the new spin on the characters that bothers me, it's that none of these new characters are very interesting. The 616 Spidey and Wolverine are the stars of this show, and they completely overshadow any of the 2099 characters, including Spider-Man 2099. It's because of this that the story feels much more like a “What-If?” one shot than a reboot of a universe Marvel plans on utilizing again in the future.
I am a huge fan of Brian Reed, but I really feel like this series has been a big missed opportunity on Marvel's part to bring back a universe that could be the next Ultimate line. Sadly, I don't think anyone will care enough about these characters to want to see them anytime in the near future (no pun intended).
2 out of 5 Wasted Opportunities
7-15-09: Finding Nemo: Reef Rescue #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
BOOM! Studios recently released the latest title in their kids’ line of comics with “Finding Nemo: Reef Rescue” #1. Not only does the book do an excellent job of capturing the feel of “Finding Nemo,” it’s also accessible to those who haven’t seen the movie (all five of you out there).
“Reef Rescue” begins with Marlin, Nemo, Dory and most of the rest of the supporting cast back at home near the coral reef. During a field trip, Nemo and his classmates notice that something seems to be affecting the coral, causing it to turn a dull gray and break apart. Marlin, Dory, Nemo and Squirt volunteer to try and find out what’s happening before it gets any worse.
Writer Marie Croall’s story is easy to follow and Erica Leigh Currey’s art is spot on. The best compliment I can give it is that I both heard and pictured the movie characters as I read each panel, and it felt like a perfect fit. The book is bright and colorful, and the story is appropriate enough that even kids who haven’t started reading yet will get a lot out of it.
BOOM! likely has another hit on their hands with this one, and it’s great to have another solid kids’ title on the shelves.
4 out of 5 Just Keep Swimmings
BOOM! Studios recently released the latest title in their kids’ line of comics with “Finding Nemo: Reef Rescue” #1. Not only does the book do an excellent job of capturing the feel of “Finding Nemo,” it’s also accessible to those who haven’t seen the movie (all five of you out there).
“Reef Rescue” begins with Marlin, Nemo, Dory and most of the rest of the supporting cast back at home near the coral reef. During a field trip, Nemo and his classmates notice that something seems to be affecting the coral, causing it to turn a dull gray and break apart. Marlin, Dory, Nemo and Squirt volunteer to try and find out what’s happening before it gets any worse.
Writer Marie Croall’s story is easy to follow and Erica Leigh Currey’s art is spot on. The best compliment I can give it is that I both heard and pictured the movie characters as I read each panel, and it felt like a perfect fit. The book is bright and colorful, and the story is appropriate enough that even kids who haven’t started reading yet will get a lot out of it.
BOOM! likely has another hit on their hands with this one, and it’s great to have another solid kids’ title on the shelves.
4 out of 5 Just Keep Swimmings
7-9-09: The Stuff of Legend #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
On Free Comic Book Day, Third World Studios treated readers to a sneak peek of what effectively was the prologue of “The Stuff of Legend.” We saw a young boy kidnapped from his bedroom by the Boogeyman, and several of his toys banded together to mount a rescue mission. The preview ended with the toys entering the boy’s closet and crossing over into The Dark, a place where they became flesh and blood, and had to engage the armies of the Boogeyman in bloody battle. The amazing artwork by Charles Paul Wilson III and story by Mike Raicht and Brian Smith clearly showed that “The Stuff of Legend” is a polished, well crafted tale that had me looking forward to seeing the rest of it.
I’m happy to say that after reading the entire first issue of “The Stuff of Legend,” the rest of the story completely delivers on the promise shown in the preview. Once the toys are in The Dark, things take a decided turn for the worse. Not only do the toys have to face the armies of the Boogeyman, but their resolve as a group is tested, and when the weakest member of the group (Percy the Piggy bank) gets separated, the Boogeyman sees an opportunity and takes advantage of it. What happens after that has major ramifications for the band of toys trying to rescue the boy.
What I love most about “The Stuff of Legend” is that it takes two concepts that every kid recognizes and expertly combines them. Most of us were terrified of the Boogeyman at some point in our childhood, and most of us dreamed about what it would be like if our toys came to life. Raicht and Smith’s story is indeed a dark one, but one that feels like it sprung from a child’s imagination. Because it does resonate so well, I found myself really caring about what happened to the characters, and the emotional beats of the first issue really hit home. Not to mention, Wilson III’s artwork is amazing, particularly the way he handles the transition of the characters between the real world and The Dark.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and it’s a safe bet you’ll hear it discussed at the end of the year when people are making their “best of” lists. You can check out the FBCD preview issue of The Stuff of Legend at www.th3rdworld.com.
5 out of 5 Legendary Tales
On Free Comic Book Day, Third World Studios treated readers to a sneak peek of what effectively was the prologue of “The Stuff of Legend.” We saw a young boy kidnapped from his bedroom by the Boogeyman, and several of his toys banded together to mount a rescue mission. The preview ended with the toys entering the boy’s closet and crossing over into The Dark, a place where they became flesh and blood, and had to engage the armies of the Boogeyman in bloody battle. The amazing artwork by Charles Paul Wilson III and story by Mike Raicht and Brian Smith clearly showed that “The Stuff of Legend” is a polished, well crafted tale that had me looking forward to seeing the rest of it.
I’m happy to say that after reading the entire first issue of “The Stuff of Legend,” the rest of the story completely delivers on the promise shown in the preview. Once the toys are in The Dark, things take a decided turn for the worse. Not only do the toys have to face the armies of the Boogeyman, but their resolve as a group is tested, and when the weakest member of the group (Percy the Piggy bank) gets separated, the Boogeyman sees an opportunity and takes advantage of it. What happens after that has major ramifications for the band of toys trying to rescue the boy.
What I love most about “The Stuff of Legend” is that it takes two concepts that every kid recognizes and expertly combines them. Most of us were terrified of the Boogeyman at some point in our childhood, and most of us dreamed about what it would be like if our toys came to life. Raicht and Smith’s story is indeed a dark one, but one that feels like it sprung from a child’s imagination. Because it does resonate so well, I found myself really caring about what happened to the characters, and the emotional beats of the first issue really hit home. Not to mention, Wilson III’s artwork is amazing, particularly the way he handles the transition of the characters between the real world and The Dark.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and it’s a safe bet you’ll hear it discussed at the end of the year when people are making their “best of” lists. You can check out the FBCD preview issue of The Stuff of Legend at www.th3rdworld.com.
5 out of 5 Legendary Tales
6-27-09: William Shatner's Tek War Chronicles # 1
by Matman
Did you ever wonder why movies and comics always show the future as bleak and a little scary? Because if they weren’t, we wouldn’t be reading or watching now would we?
Tek War is the creation of William Shatner who knows a thing or two about the future! While on the set of Star Trek V (that is 5), Shatner began writing notes for what became the first draft of Tek War. Since then his ideas became several novels, a comic book series, video game, a card set and a short lived TV show! I will say now I have never read or seen any of them, so this review could be interesting. I’m going in cold!
The Tek War Chronicles is a bleak story that page after page only gets more depressing. Jake Cardigan is a 22nd century police officer who has just been released from jail. Not only was he incarcerated for a crime he doesn’t think he committed, his release is a bit mysterious. Someone wants Jake for something …and chances are it’s not for good. Jake has also been told that he can’t get in contact with his wife and son. The 22nd century isn’t so happy! One of the only escapes is the effects of the digital drug Tek that changes the way you look at things as it destroys you.
Writer / creator Shatner and Scott Davis have given us a tale that you can just pick up and just enjoy. You don’t need to know what has happened in the past and that is a tribute to their writing and plotting. You just need to know one thing…Tek is bad news! Erich Owen handles the pencils (and inks) and does a fine job with the storytelling and the many different characters he gets to play with. The coloring by Michelle Davies brings the pages to life, but in some parts flattens out the depth. Bluewater Comics has always given you the best in paper and printing quality so don’t forget that if you get a little freaked by the $3.99 price tag.
As much a crime story as a sci fi tale and even a mystery, Tek War Chronicles is a great book that you can just pick up and enjoy.
Matman Rating – 4 out of 5 flying cabs.
Did you ever wonder why movies and comics always show the future as bleak and a little scary? Because if they weren’t, we wouldn’t be reading or watching now would we?
Tek War is the creation of William Shatner who knows a thing or two about the future! While on the set of Star Trek V (that is 5), Shatner began writing notes for what became the first draft of Tek War. Since then his ideas became several novels, a comic book series, video game, a card set and a short lived TV show! I will say now I have never read or seen any of them, so this review could be interesting. I’m going in cold!
The Tek War Chronicles is a bleak story that page after page only gets more depressing. Jake Cardigan is a 22nd century police officer who has just been released from jail. Not only was he incarcerated for a crime he doesn’t think he committed, his release is a bit mysterious. Someone wants Jake for something …and chances are it’s not for good. Jake has also been told that he can’t get in contact with his wife and son. The 22nd century isn’t so happy! One of the only escapes is the effects of the digital drug Tek that changes the way you look at things as it destroys you.
Writer / creator Shatner and Scott Davis have given us a tale that you can just pick up and just enjoy. You don’t need to know what has happened in the past and that is a tribute to their writing and plotting. You just need to know one thing…Tek is bad news! Erich Owen handles the pencils (and inks) and does a fine job with the storytelling and the many different characters he gets to play with. The coloring by Michelle Davies brings the pages to life, but in some parts flattens out the depth. Bluewater Comics has always given you the best in paper and printing quality so don’t forget that if you get a little freaked by the $3.99 price tag.
As much a crime story as a sci fi tale and even a mystery, Tek War Chronicles is a great book that you can just pick up and enjoy.
Matman Rating – 4 out of 5 flying cabs.
6-24-09: Mighty Avengers #26 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Since the relaunch of “Mighty Avengers” a couple years ago, I’ve felt like it has struggled to find its place in the Avengers world. Clearly the “New Avengers” is the flagship title in the stable, and “Avengers: Initiative” has established itself as sort of the “JSA” of the Avengers, focused on shaping the upcoming heroes of tomorrow. “Mighty Avengers” is somewhere in between, and its lack of grounding has made it the least interesting of the three books.
When Dan Slott came onto the title, I had high hopes, as I’ve loved pretty much everything else he’s done. While he started out a bit slowly, the last two issues have really started to give this series a foothold in the MarvelU. Issue #26 firmly established the “Mighty Avengers” as Hank Pym’s team, and also solidifies the new direction of his character. This arc has pitted Pym against Reed Richards, who, at least in the popular vote, is smarter than Hank. Pym needs a device that will help anchor his other-dimensional secret labs that are close to becoming lost in the nether regions of time and space. Reed feels the device is too dangerous to give to Pym, and the ensuing showdown has the Avengers trying to steal the device before everything Pym has built is lost.
What I love about this arc is the focus on super science, and how Slott re-establishes Hank Pym as a guy who should be mentioned in the same sentence as Reed Richards. The team comes together nicely in this issue, and Slott plays Amadeus Cho and Jocasta well off of Pym’s character. When the story concludes, there are still plenty of questions left unanswered, but this crew of Avengers feels solid, and there’s a good foundation for wherever Slott plans on going from here.
I’d love to see Slott be able to tell some stories with this group that are not hampered by whatever events Marvel has planned for the upcoming year. It’s an interesting group of characters that he can have a lot of fun with.
4 out of 5 Super Scientists
Since the relaunch of “Mighty Avengers” a couple years ago, I’ve felt like it has struggled to find its place in the Avengers world. Clearly the “New Avengers” is the flagship title in the stable, and “Avengers: Initiative” has established itself as sort of the “JSA” of the Avengers, focused on shaping the upcoming heroes of tomorrow. “Mighty Avengers” is somewhere in between, and its lack of grounding has made it the least interesting of the three books.
When Dan Slott came onto the title, I had high hopes, as I’ve loved pretty much everything else he’s done. While he started out a bit slowly, the last two issues have really started to give this series a foothold in the MarvelU. Issue #26 firmly established the “Mighty Avengers” as Hank Pym’s team, and also solidifies the new direction of his character. This arc has pitted Pym against Reed Richards, who, at least in the popular vote, is smarter than Hank. Pym needs a device that will help anchor his other-dimensional secret labs that are close to becoming lost in the nether regions of time and space. Reed feels the device is too dangerous to give to Pym, and the ensuing showdown has the Avengers trying to steal the device before everything Pym has built is lost.
What I love about this arc is the focus on super science, and how Slott re-establishes Hank Pym as a guy who should be mentioned in the same sentence as Reed Richards. The team comes together nicely in this issue, and Slott plays Amadeus Cho and Jocasta well off of Pym’s character. When the story concludes, there are still plenty of questions left unanswered, but this crew of Avengers feels solid, and there’s a good foundation for wherever Slott plans on going from here.
I’d love to see Slott be able to tell some stories with this group that are not hampered by whatever events Marvel has planned for the upcoming year. It’s an interesting group of characters that he can have a lot of fun with.
4 out of 5 Super Scientists
6-13-09: Robot 13 #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
With “Robot 13,” writer Thomas Hall and Artist Daniel Bradford have combined action, mystery, robots and mythological creatures into one unique vision that will has me hooked after the first issue.
The story is set in 1939, aboard fishing vessel off the coast of Spain. When their nets pull up what appears to be a skull-headed robot creature, things start to get weird. The robot is sentient, but appears to have amnesia. Just as the sailors are starting to wrap their heads around what they’ve discovered, the ship is attacked by a giant sea creature. The robot snaps into action, attacking the creature and saving what’s left of the crew. The first issue ends with the crew agreeing to help the mysterious stranger that just saved their lives.
Hall combines elements of Greek Mythology, pulp science and good old fashioned monster stories to great effect. Daniel Bradford’s art will draw immediate comparisons to Mike Mignola, but it’s his coloring that really stands out here, in particular the job he does of bringing the feel of the cold, dark depths of the sea to the reader. His art overall is a perfect fit for Hall’s story.
“Robot 13” #1 is a strong start to this quarterly series, and was definitely a standout at MoCCA 2009. I highly recommend it. Ask your local comic shop to order the issue, or head over to http://www.blackliststudios.com/ and purchase a copy there.
4.5 out of 5 Colossi
With “Robot 13,” writer Thomas Hall and Artist Daniel Bradford have combined action, mystery, robots and mythological creatures into one unique vision that will has me hooked after the first issue.
The story is set in 1939, aboard fishing vessel off the coast of Spain. When their nets pull up what appears to be a skull-headed robot creature, things start to get weird. The robot is sentient, but appears to have amnesia. Just as the sailors are starting to wrap their heads around what they’ve discovered, the ship is attacked by a giant sea creature. The robot snaps into action, attacking the creature and saving what’s left of the crew. The first issue ends with the crew agreeing to help the mysterious stranger that just saved their lives.
Hall combines elements of Greek Mythology, pulp science and good old fashioned monster stories to great effect. Daniel Bradford’s art will draw immediate comparisons to Mike Mignola, but it’s his coloring that really stands out here, in particular the job he does of bringing the feel of the cold, dark depths of the sea to the reader. His art overall is a perfect fit for Hall’s story.
“Robot 13” #1 is a strong start to this quarterly series, and was definitely a standout at MoCCA 2009. I highly recommend it. Ask your local comic shop to order the issue, or head over to http://www.blackliststudios.com/ and purchase a copy there.
4.5 out of 5 Colossi
6-9-09: Irredeemable #3 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Mark Waid continues to write the living daylights out of this series with “Irredeemable” #3. As the Plutonian’s former allies try to find out why he’s gone bad and how to stop him, his former enemies are trying to figure out where they stand as well. It’s a new world now, where up is down and archenemies are potential allies. A bunch of villains get together in the former hideout of Inferno, the Plutonian’s first victim from Issue #1. The Plutonian also show up, and offers each one of them a chance to prove their trustworthiness and form an alliance with him. The consequences of their decisions are life-altering, to say the least.
What I absolutely love about this series is how lean it is. Waid does not draw anything out. The events of the first three issues of this series would be a 6-12 issue arc in most current books. It’s gritty, bloody, and straight to the point. Most of all though, it’s fun, and you can tell Waid is having a great time destroying the superhero conventions that have been built up over the last 50-plus years.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
5 out of 5 Shiny Red Buttons
Mark Waid continues to write the living daylights out of this series with “Irredeemable” #3. As the Plutonian’s former allies try to find out why he’s gone bad and how to stop him, his former enemies are trying to figure out where they stand as well. It’s a new world now, where up is down and archenemies are potential allies. A bunch of villains get together in the former hideout of Inferno, the Plutonian’s first victim from Issue #1. The Plutonian also show up, and offers each one of them a chance to prove their trustworthiness and form an alliance with him. The consequences of their decisions are life-altering, to say the least.
What I absolutely love about this series is how lean it is. Waid does not draw anything out. The events of the first three issues of this series would be a 6-12 issue arc in most current books. It’s gritty, bloody, and straight to the point. Most of all though, it’s fun, and you can tell Waid is having a great time destroying the superhero conventions that have been built up over the last 50-plus years.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
5 out of 5 Shiny Red Buttons
5-24-09: Chew #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
John Layman and Rob Guillory have put together a truly unique story with “Chew,” and the first issue does a great job of sucking people into this new series.
Tony Chu is a Philadelphia cop who has a very strange talent—he's a Cibopath. This means that anytime he takes a bite of something, he can see details about it. If he eats a steak, he can see the cow it came from, the farm the cow was raised on, etc.
In the world of “Chew,” poultry has been outlawed because of a Avian Flu epidemic. While staking out a black market chicken operation, Tony and his partner get caught up in a federal investigation being run by the FDA. As a consolation for having the investigation taken out of their hands, Tony and his partner are treated to a chicken dinner. When Tony takes a sip of the soup, he finds out something very sinister about the man who cooked it, and things will never be the same for him after that.
John Layman has written a really tight story in the first issue, not only introducing some of the main characters, but also getting the reader acclimated to Tony's power and the world that he lives in. He balances the humor, crime drama and horror elements well, and Guillory's art is spot on throughout. Together they also do a great job of making Tony a sympathetic character, despite having a rather grotesque defining trait.
I can honestly say that “Chew” is unlike anything else I've read in a while, and it reminded me why I've missed John Laymen while he's been secreted away writing “Champions Online.” It's good to have him on a monthly book again, and I'm looking forward to seeing where this series is going.
“Chew” #1 is scheduled to hit stores on June 3rd.
4 out of 5 Finger-Lickin' Goods
John Layman and Rob Guillory have put together a truly unique story with “Chew,” and the first issue does a great job of sucking people into this new series.
Tony Chu is a Philadelphia cop who has a very strange talent—he's a Cibopath. This means that anytime he takes a bite of something, he can see details about it. If he eats a steak, he can see the cow it came from, the farm the cow was raised on, etc.
In the world of “Chew,” poultry has been outlawed because of a Avian Flu epidemic. While staking out a black market chicken operation, Tony and his partner get caught up in a federal investigation being run by the FDA. As a consolation for having the investigation taken out of their hands, Tony and his partner are treated to a chicken dinner. When Tony takes a sip of the soup, he finds out something very sinister about the man who cooked it, and things will never be the same for him after that.
John Layman has written a really tight story in the first issue, not only introducing some of the main characters, but also getting the reader acclimated to Tony's power and the world that he lives in. He balances the humor, crime drama and horror elements well, and Guillory's art is spot on throughout. Together they also do a great job of making Tony a sympathetic character, despite having a rather grotesque defining trait.
I can honestly say that “Chew” is unlike anything else I've read in a while, and it reminded me why I've missed John Laymen while he's been secreted away writing “Champions Online.” It's good to have him on a monthly book again, and I'm looking forward to seeing where this series is going.
“Chew” #1 is scheduled to hit stores on June 3rd.
4 out of 5 Finger-Lickin' Goods
5-23-09: ICONIC (Comic Book Artist Guild)
by Matman
I always tell people to be very careful about independent anthology books. For one thing, you never know what you’re going to get as far as quality and cohesiveness (and price). For every few good stories there is more junk! And what is the hope of a creator to get their name and work out there sometimes backfires.
Having said all that let me introduce you to a collection not like any of that! The book is called Iconic and it’s from our friends at the Comic Book Artist Guild (CAG)!
Iconic is more than just a collection of stories, it’s a collection of memories of days gone by. Each all ages story features familiar characters like Sherlock Holmes, John Henry, and Ebenezer Scrooge and brings the reader back to the time when they first discovered excitement in reading, mostly in volumes featuring those above mentioned names! Holding the stories together is a beautiful short written by Chris Buchner and drawn by Brian Brinlee. Every three or so stories we are reminded that this is a grandfather reading the book to his grandkids. His goal is to share and pass on the thrill of reading and using imagination. For the next 100 or so pages you are treated to some just brilliant storytelling! Here in my opinion are a few of the best…
First In Flight – Writer Robert J Sodaro and artist Rick Lundeen take us to the Connecticut coast for a story that challenges everything you thought you knew ‘Wright’!
In George And The Monster, writer Scott Ludwig and artist Keith Murphey delves into the darker side (and arguably more fun) of storytelling…the scary bedtime story. Someone or thing is out to get George and the team that stands with him to fight is quite charming.
Sherlock Holmes has never been able to solve one mystery; the identity of Jack The Ripper! After reading Repercussions by Dwight Baldwin and J.M. DeSantis, you’ll see why. An ending I never saw coming.
Although not a fan of mythology, I quite liked Talos The Bronze by Rafael Gonzales and Philip Clarke. Full of excitement and magic, it was Rafael’s art that drew me in.
Outlaws Of Industry is an epic tale of greed, action and heroics by writer Ryan Markle, penciler Paul London and inker Alex Rivera. Just when you lose your faith in your fellow humans, you get it back.
Since artist Brian Brinlee is featured very heavily in Iconic I feel it is important to note how impressive his work is. Readers of Sky Pirates are already familiar with his talent, but here he brought it to a whole new level. His panels here reminded me of classic stuff by Sam Glanzman, Tim Truman and Dick Ayers!
With over 30 creators involved, 11 illustrated stories and one bibliography, there was a lot of time and energy put into Iconic and it reads like a labor of love. Each story blends wonderfully with the overall theme and although there is not a bad story in the bunch, some work much better than others. Every creative team in this book does a fantastic job and should be proud of their contributions and those of their partners. One thing you may not notice as you enjoy the book is the quality of the production. The inking is tight and the lettering is crisp, well placed and easy to read. Those are a couple of things that can ruin a ‘indie’ books overall presentation. Art and story are important, but if lines look fuzzy and the letters are all over the place, it may distract you! Since I haven’t gotten my own copy yet, I can’t tell you about page quality, binding and overall readability (I got PDF files), I’m sure it’s top notch as well! The format will be a 6 x 9 perfect bound paperback set for a release of June 6th.
Since Iconic is a fundraiser, look at the fact that not only do you get a cool book for under $10.00, but you’re helping CAG raise some much needed cash. And after you’re done reading (and rereading), search out some of those involved, let ‘em know what you thought and help support their projects. There are some incredibly talented writers and artist out there not working at one of the ‘majors’ and this is a way to discover a bunch between one cover!
Matman Rating – 5 out of 5 ‘Dear Watsons’
I always tell people to be very careful about independent anthology books. For one thing, you never know what you’re going to get as far as quality and cohesiveness (and price). For every few good stories there is more junk! And what is the hope of a creator to get their name and work out there sometimes backfires.
Having said all that let me introduce you to a collection not like any of that! The book is called Iconic and it’s from our friends at the Comic Book Artist Guild (CAG)!
Iconic is more than just a collection of stories, it’s a collection of memories of days gone by. Each all ages story features familiar characters like Sherlock Holmes, John Henry, and Ebenezer Scrooge and brings the reader back to the time when they first discovered excitement in reading, mostly in volumes featuring those above mentioned names! Holding the stories together is a beautiful short written by Chris Buchner and drawn by Brian Brinlee. Every three or so stories we are reminded that this is a grandfather reading the book to his grandkids. His goal is to share and pass on the thrill of reading and using imagination. For the next 100 or so pages you are treated to some just brilliant storytelling! Here in my opinion are a few of the best…
First In Flight – Writer Robert J Sodaro and artist Rick Lundeen take us to the Connecticut coast for a story that challenges everything you thought you knew ‘Wright’!
In George And The Monster, writer Scott Ludwig and artist Keith Murphey delves into the darker side (and arguably more fun) of storytelling…the scary bedtime story. Someone or thing is out to get George and the team that stands with him to fight is quite charming.
Sherlock Holmes has never been able to solve one mystery; the identity of Jack The Ripper! After reading Repercussions by Dwight Baldwin and J.M. DeSantis, you’ll see why. An ending I never saw coming.
Although not a fan of mythology, I quite liked Talos The Bronze by Rafael Gonzales and Philip Clarke. Full of excitement and magic, it was Rafael’s art that drew me in.
Outlaws Of Industry is an epic tale of greed, action and heroics by writer Ryan Markle, penciler Paul London and inker Alex Rivera. Just when you lose your faith in your fellow humans, you get it back.
Since artist Brian Brinlee is featured very heavily in Iconic I feel it is important to note how impressive his work is. Readers of Sky Pirates are already familiar with his talent, but here he brought it to a whole new level. His panels here reminded me of classic stuff by Sam Glanzman, Tim Truman and Dick Ayers!
With over 30 creators involved, 11 illustrated stories and one bibliography, there was a lot of time and energy put into Iconic and it reads like a labor of love. Each story blends wonderfully with the overall theme and although there is not a bad story in the bunch, some work much better than others. Every creative team in this book does a fantastic job and should be proud of their contributions and those of their partners. One thing you may not notice as you enjoy the book is the quality of the production. The inking is tight and the lettering is crisp, well placed and easy to read. Those are a couple of things that can ruin a ‘indie’ books overall presentation. Art and story are important, but if lines look fuzzy and the letters are all over the place, it may distract you! Since I haven’t gotten my own copy yet, I can’t tell you about page quality, binding and overall readability (I got PDF files), I’m sure it’s top notch as well! The format will be a 6 x 9 perfect bound paperback set for a release of June 6th.
Since Iconic is a fundraiser, look at the fact that not only do you get a cool book for under $10.00, but you’re helping CAG raise some much needed cash. And after you’re done reading (and rereading), search out some of those involved, let ‘em know what you thought and help support their projects. There are some incredibly talented writers and artist out there not working at one of the ‘majors’ and this is a way to discover a bunch between one cover!
Matman Rating – 5 out of 5 ‘Dear Watsons’
5-13-09: The Unknown #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Since Mark Waid arrived at BOOM! Studios, he has been on an incredible run of creativity, whether it be the stuff he’s writing for other companies (his stuff on Spidey has been great), or the new properties he’s introducing through BOOM! Hot off the heels of “Irredeemable” comes his latest work, “Unknown.”
“The Unknown” tells the story of Cat Allingham, a modern day Sherlock Holmes. Her amazing eye for detail and her ability to read a crime scene has allowed her to solve some of the biggest crimes of the day. She’s also a best-selling author, and is first on the short list of specialists that are called in when a come seems unsolvable. Oh, and one other thing—Cat has six months to live.
The first issue does a good job of establishing Cat, her reputation and her current situation. The books also brings in the character of James Doyle, a savvy bouncer who ends up being Cat’s hired muscle. Together, the two of them travel across the world to investigate what could be the last mystery Cat ever solves, and one that could provide answers about her own fate.
Much like Irredeemable, the pacing in this issue is great, and there is a real sense of urgency to cat’s character, given her current situation. I’m not familiar with artist Minck Oosterveer, but he’s great here, perfectly communicating the dark tone of the book and keeping up with Waid’s breakneck pace.
“The Unknown” #1 is another great first issue for BOOM! and mark Waid, who are really making some noise in the industry right now. Go support their efforts and buy this book.
4.5 out of 5 Unsolved Mysteries
Since Mark Waid arrived at BOOM! Studios, he has been on an incredible run of creativity, whether it be the stuff he’s writing for other companies (his stuff on Spidey has been great), or the new properties he’s introducing through BOOM! Hot off the heels of “Irredeemable” comes his latest work, “Unknown.”
“The Unknown” tells the story of Cat Allingham, a modern day Sherlock Holmes. Her amazing eye for detail and her ability to read a crime scene has allowed her to solve some of the biggest crimes of the day. She’s also a best-selling author, and is first on the short list of specialists that are called in when a come seems unsolvable. Oh, and one other thing—Cat has six months to live.
The first issue does a good job of establishing Cat, her reputation and her current situation. The books also brings in the character of James Doyle, a savvy bouncer who ends up being Cat’s hired muscle. Together, the two of them travel across the world to investigate what could be the last mystery Cat ever solves, and one that could provide answers about her own fate.
Much like Irredeemable, the pacing in this issue is great, and there is a real sense of urgency to cat’s character, given her current situation. I’m not familiar with artist Minck Oosterveer, but he’s great here, perfectly communicating the dark tone of the book and keeping up with Waid’s breakneck pace.
“The Unknown” #1 is another great first issue for BOOM! and mark Waid, who are really making some noise in the industry right now. Go support their efforts and buy this book.
4.5 out of 5 Unsolved Mysteries
4-30-09: Dragon Frog # 1 (Big Fly Creative Works)
by the Matman
Wally Wallas is a frog who, when he was younger, was orphaned and crippled in a subway accident. But instead of just giving up and living with the cards he was dealt, Wally enters the world of martial arts and develops his body and mind to become New York City’s greatest hero. But the question is why? Is it to prove a point or really make a difference.
Dragon Frog is an adventure that takes place in an anthropomorphic world. Here, Wally donned in a purple surf suit and goggles, breaks up a hi tech bank robbery and is able to keep his identity a secret. He finds great pleasure in this until he meets with his sensei who’s not very happy about this. Wally feels he is doing ‘good’ by being a hero, yet his master (who looks like the old Corn Flakes rooster) feels Wally is not looking at the big picture. He mentions ‘enemies that scour the world’ and for our young hero it means nothing. Like many of a younger age, he only thinks in the now but his motives are pure. Throw into the mix a mythical human looking monster called the Humbaba and you have one of the best comics I’ve read in a long time.
Writer / Creator Sergio Clavijo has somehow been able to mix the best elements of The Ninja Turtles, The Empire Strikes Back and the Karate Kid and make a unique and inspiring story. His characters are full of excitement and the story moves at a nice pace with plenty of action and animals. Artist / Colorist Aleth Romanillos is in one word, amazing. His style, panel layouts and colors bring this world to life. As you look at the pictures, you can’t help but feel good and smile. I don’t know how much editing Nanci Lillie had to do, because this book seems to have just put itself together. The perfect creative team for the perfect comic.
For me Dragon Frog # 1 brought back the feelings I had when I first read the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles way back in 1983; a fun and completely different comic. Dragon Frog is an all ages comic so big it’s in magazine size. Bigger art, bigger story and bigger fun!
Matman Rating – 5 out 5 web fingered karate frogs
4-7-09: American McGee's Grimm #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
In the first issue of American McGee’s Grimm, the creative team of Dwight MacPherson and Grant Bond unleash the titular character of the video game upon the traditional superhero comic.
For those that haven’t played the game, Grimm is a dwarf that is disgusted by how fairytales have become sweet and sappy, full of happy endings. He wants to return to the days when fairy tales were dark, filled with harsh lessons and cruel realities. In the game, players control Grimm as he rampages through well known stories spreading darkness and mayhem. A trail of darkness follows him wherever he goes, and he has a “butt stomp” move that increases the range of his darkness-spreading power. As Grimm corrupts the world around him, the fairy tales lose their sugar coating, and their dark and violent roots are revealed.
For the comic, writer Dwight MacPherson does a great job of picking up Grimm’s story and running with it. In Issue #1, Grimm has pretty much corrupted all of the fairy tales he can, and he’s looking for a new challenge. He decides to make the world of comics his next target, as it’s filled with stereotypes and clichés. His first order of business is to deal with superhero comics. What follows is basically a skewering of the comic book theme of good guys triumphing over bad guys. Grimm pays a visit to the supervillain fraternity and gives them an upgrade. He then proceeds to put together a plan to take down the good guys once and for all. With Grimm on their side, the villains finally manage to turn the tables, and the outcome for the heroes is a decidedly unhappy ending. The story is filled with witty dialogue and nods to both well-known superheroes and well-known storylines.
Grant Bond expertly handles the art in this book, taking the look and feel of the Grimm videogame and contrasting it with a traditional comic book style. As the story progresses, so does Grimm’s influence in the comic world, and Bond keeps the art in sync with the story all the way.
Whether you’re a fan of the game or not, American McGee’s Grimm #1 provides a great parody of our beloved comic genre that is worth a read for any comic fan. The comic hits stores April 29th, and anyone wanting to check out the game can play a free episode of it over at www.gametap.com.
4 out of 5 Twisted Tales
4-3-09: Irredeemable #1 Review
by Brian LeTendre
Wow. Mark Waid’s Irredeemable # 1 punches you in the mouth, knocks you down and then keeps pummeling you until you black out. It’s everything a first issue should be and more.
Irredeemable is the story of the Plutonian, a Superman-like character who goes from being the world’s greatest superhero to the world’s most dangerous villain. The first issue throws readers into the story after it’s already begun. A hero named The Hornet is desperately trying to get his wife and kids out of the house before the Plutonian finds them. Unfortunately for them, they don’t get out in time.
We then see the remainder of what used to be the Plutonian’s superhero fraternity trying to figure out a way to stop him. We also find out the reason behind the Plutonian’s change from hero to villain. He became obsessed with people who criticized him and mocked him, losing his faith in humanity after seeing their compulsion to tear their heroes down. Now he’s coming after all of the heroes he used to serve with, taking them out one by one.
There’s surely more to the backstory of just what made the Plutonian snap, but Waid does a great job of setting up the series in a tightly written first issue. Peter Krause gives the book a great look, really nailing the emotional moments in the story.
Irredeemable #1 is a terrific start to what may be one of the standout series of 2009. A must buy.
5 out of 5 Heroes Running Scared
3-30-09: Wolverine - Prodigal Son (Del Rey / Marvel)
by the Matman
When Antony Johnston asked if I’d be interested in reviewing his latest work, I said yes right away. After all, Antony is the writer of some incredible and thought provoking books like Wasteland and Dead Space and very instrumental in the early success of Secret Identity. So when I asked what it was he said “a manga take on Wolverine”.
Uh – Oh! I’m not a Wolverine fan, nor do I read any manga! This wasn’t looking good. How do i get outta this!
So when I popped open this smallish book the first thing I noticed was the panel layout. Instead of traditional flat and even boarders they were schizophrenic. But I read on.
Here we meet a Wolverine very different than the overused Marvel character. Logan is a young boy who was found in the woods by Mr.Elliot, the sensei of a martial arts school in the wilds of Canada. Here he also an outcast! The best fighter in the school (except for maybe Tammy Elliot, the sensei’s daughter), Logan has made many enemies with students past and present. His healing factor and bone claws also don’t warm him up to his classmates who look at him as just a psychotic freak. But the main theme of the story is not so much alienation, but fear. Since the school is a ‘school’, there comes an end to the time there. ‘Where do we go?’ and my ‘place in the world’ are all the fears we had upon our own graduations, but since this is the only home Logan has ever had, the fear runs deeper.
As I read the book I realized Antony Johnston could right cereal box instructions (pour in bowl, add milk and eat) and make them incredibly interesting. There are at least five huge fight scenes that are made more spirited by the writing and a full chapter with no words that still tell a meaningful story. With his current works like Wasteland (Oni Press) and Dead Space (Image), Antony tends to let the action or situations tell the story. Here he lets the characters fuel the reading fire.
Just as important to the presentation is the art and Wilson Tortosa doesn’t disappoint. Visually is where the traditional comic reader struggles with manga, but Wilson keeps Wolverine recognizable and his action scenes are a nice blend of fury and beauty. His pencils are very expressive and details to things like planes cars and cityscapes are perfect. As someone who thought all manga artists draw the same, it was a shock to think I recognized Wilson’s art and style from somewhere else. Five years ago he was the artist on Top Cow’s Battle Of The Planets and most of you know the love I have for BOTP and Gatchaman!
Wolverine – Prodigal Son is an excellent way to introduce traditional comic fans to manga and vise versa. It’s an ages 13 + book that is a full 166 page story (plus 20 more pages of sketches) and has a price tag of $12.99. Don’t let the price tag freak you out too much. Look at what you pay for your regular comics and do a page to price count.
Rating - 4.5 out of 5 Kicks To The Face
Wolverine – Prodigal Son is from Del Rey Manga and hits shops April 7th. For more information go to www.delreymanga.com.
