One-sentence summary: This Amazonian mini-series leaves too little to the imagination when it comes to story with acceptable art.
I seem to be coming down on all the comics I read lately. I promise, that's not the case, even if it seems so. Maybe it's just because I've been reviewing some mediocre comics.
Wonder Girl is a mini-series that hopefully will accomplish something. I've disliked the character ever since they decided to make her perky and blonde, so maybe this will change that. There are several good directions this series could take; personally, I'd really like to see this series, dealing with the huge personal crisis for Wonder Girl that was Amazons Attack, show our protagonist develop in some major ways, and possibly not in the friendliest, sun-shiniest ways.
However, from the major plot hints, what will happen is that Hercules will end up being against her the whole time after getting her to break against her other friends, she finally seeing the truth or some such stuff like that and fighting back, rejoining the side of good and having her faith in her friends and community restored, all on some large scale so that the public trusts her again. Woo.
This issue was ok. Obviously no big twists yet, and the set-up's not horrible, but just ok. I'd say wait on this to see if it's worth the trade paperback or not. Oh, and the art's just alright. I really don't have strong feelings about the pseudo-animated style that's so popular right now.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Superman #668
One-sentence summary: Following up on a development from over a year ago, a new story arc is introduced in this decent issue.
This issue wasn't too bad. It's always fun to see the various takes writers have on the relationship between Batman and Superman, and this issue was no exception, with those scenes being the highlight for me.
While this served as a good introduction to the story, it wasn't much more than that. It was sort of fun, which is always good. The art was decent, but that's about it. All in all, not too bad, but nothing to feel too strongly about.
This issue wasn't too bad. It's always fun to see the various takes writers have on the relationship between Batman and Superman, and this issue was no exception, with those scenes being the highlight for me.
While this served as a good introduction to the story, it wasn't much more than that. It was sort of fun, which is always good. The art was decent, but that's about it. All in all, not too bad, but nothing to feel too strongly about.
Green Lantern #24
One-sentence summary: Part 8 of the Sinestro Corps War is here, with plenty of action and plot progression.
I've been a big fan of the Sinestro Corps War since it started, so it's no surprise I've continued to enjoy it. I really think the overall plot has been really well paced, with a good presentation of the major battles as well as a series of important plot twists, each one impacting the story in a large way. For that alone I'd like this story-arc in comparison to some of the other major stories going on out there, but in addition to this we have good writing for the characters and just enough small touches to keep the book grounded (I'm, in particular, thinking of the Michigan emblem on Guy's power lantern).
The art continues to be good for the book. It's nothing I'll write fan letters over, but it does a good job of helping tell the story. The lanterns soaring through the air during the battles is always nice.
This story is being keyed up to what should be a pretty incredible conclusion. This is definitely a quality title, and I look forward to each new progression every two weeks.
I've been a big fan of the Sinestro Corps War since it started, so it's no surprise I've continued to enjoy it. I really think the overall plot has been really well paced, with a good presentation of the major battles as well as a series of important plot twists, each one impacting the story in a large way. For that alone I'd like this story-arc in comparison to some of the other major stories going on out there, but in addition to this we have good writing for the characters and just enough small touches to keep the book grounded (I'm, in particular, thinking of the Michigan emblem on Guy's power lantern).
The art continues to be good for the book. It's nothing I'll write fan letters over, but it does a good job of helping tell the story. The lanterns soaring through the air during the battles is always nice.
This story is being keyed up to what should be a pretty incredible conclusion. This is definitely a quality title, and I look forward to each new progression every two weeks.
Green Arrow/Black Canary #1
One-sentence summary: Picking up from where the Wedding Special left off, this series begins with a partial reveal over the cliffhanger delivered with a good conservative art.
I wasn't sure what to expect out of this series, but so far it's delivered fairly well. The dialogue goes along well with Black Canary and Green Arrow's coarse humor, and the story is actually delivering me something interesting using characters I normally don't care so much about.
The story progressed nicely for a first issue, not being over-burdened with introductions or flashbacks but moving along well while explaining what's happened already to the new readers. It leaves us with another bit of a cliffhanger, but not such a major one as last time. There are a few particularly nice scenes, the best (to me) being Dr. Mid-Nite explaining the autopsy he and Batman are about to perform as Batman powers up an electric saw in the background.
I really have a thing for the clean, crisp style here, somewhat similar to the pop-art style of Mike Allred's stuff, but less colorful, more conservative. I particularly like this style when applied to the older characters -- Batman, Dr. Mid-Nite, classic Green Arrow.
Good issue of what looks to be a pretty decent series. I'm definitely looking forward to future issues of this.
I wasn't sure what to expect out of this series, but so far it's delivered fairly well. The dialogue goes along well with Black Canary and Green Arrow's coarse humor, and the story is actually delivering me something interesting using characters I normally don't care so much about.
The story progressed nicely for a first issue, not being over-burdened with introductions or flashbacks but moving along well while explaining what's happened already to the new readers. It leaves us with another bit of a cliffhanger, but not such a major one as last time. There are a few particularly nice scenes, the best (to me) being Dr. Mid-Nite explaining the autopsy he and Batman are about to perform as Batman powers up an electric saw in the background.
I really have a thing for the clean, crisp style here, somewhat similar to the pop-art style of Mike Allred's stuff, but less colorful, more conservative. I particularly like this style when applied to the older characters -- Batman, Dr. Mid-Nite, classic Green Arrow.
Good issue of what looks to be a pretty decent series. I'm definitely looking forward to future issues of this.
Countdown #29
One-sentence summary: While, technically, things happened in this issue, nothing of any importance did, which is a bit irritating.
I've probably given Countdown more patience than the average comic book reader. However, between the three Countdown tie-in titles a week (Captain Carrot? Really now?) that serve no purpose (looking at you, Search for Ray Palmer), and issues like this, which I'll rant about more next paragraph, well, they wear a reader out.
This seemed like some sort of bizarro issue, where the main title did nothing but support the tie-in titles' existences, and even then fairly thinly. It reminds me of watching the Turtles (of the Teenage Mutant Ninja kind) as a kid and them having their annual hour-long special which, I would realize later, served no purpose except to introduce characters which had already been made as a action figures, or had molds in process. That seemed to be the logic behind this issue. We had the exhilirating conclusion to the Jokester's plotline in that, well, he died. We introduced Lord Havokk or whatever his name is in order to to sell that 8 issue mini-series starting next month.
However, it's not all bad. I do like how ridiculously evil Mary Marvel has become so instantly. The Amazon storyline still doesn't interest me, which is pretty impressive considering how easily interested I am. The Karate Kid storyline, however, is pretty great, even if they only gave it a page this week. I'm definitely looking forward to see how badly Batman has managed to eff the world up again through Brother Eye. I'm not particularly interested in this DC-wide subplot of metahumans being captured and stored (I guess Marvel has ripped off of DC enough that turnabout's fair play), although I could have my opinions quickly turned if they actually did something with it (as is, the Suicide Squad series is still pretty unfocused).
The art's improved in this issue, I'd say. I'm sure there are some who'd say otherwise, but from my quick read nothing stood out too badly, and that's a good thing for a weekly title.
All in all, not too bad, really, but DC is doing some marketing things that are done tactlessly enough that they're distracting, and that gets to me.
I've probably given Countdown more patience than the average comic book reader. However, between the three Countdown tie-in titles a week (Captain Carrot? Really now?) that serve no purpose (looking at you, Search for Ray Palmer), and issues like this, which I'll rant about more next paragraph, well, they wear a reader out.
This seemed like some sort of bizarro issue, where the main title did nothing but support the tie-in titles' existences, and even then fairly thinly. It reminds me of watching the Turtles (of the Teenage Mutant Ninja kind) as a kid and them having their annual hour-long special which, I would realize later, served no purpose except to introduce characters which had already been made as a action figures, or had molds in process. That seemed to be the logic behind this issue. We had the exhilirating conclusion to the Jokester's plotline in that, well, he died. We introduced Lord Havokk or whatever his name is in order to to sell that 8 issue mini-series starting next month.
However, it's not all bad. I do like how ridiculously evil Mary Marvel has become so instantly. The Amazon storyline still doesn't interest me, which is pretty impressive considering how easily interested I am. The Karate Kid storyline, however, is pretty great, even if they only gave it a page this week. I'm definitely looking forward to see how badly Batman has managed to eff the world up again through Brother Eye. I'm not particularly interested in this DC-wide subplot of metahumans being captured and stored (I guess Marvel has ripped off of DC enough that turnabout's fair play), although I could have my opinions quickly turned if they actually did something with it (as is, the Suicide Squad series is still pretty unfocused).
The art's improved in this issue, I'd say. I'm sure there are some who'd say otherwise, but from my quick read nothing stood out too badly, and that's a good thing for a weekly title.
All in all, not too bad, really, but DC is doing some marketing things that are done tactlessly enough that they're distracting, and that gets to me.
Black Adam: The Dark Age #3 (of 8)
One-sentence summary: Black Adam's series detailing his quest for his power and for Isis' resurrection continues here with a battle with Hawkman and a gathering of power against Adam.
I was pretty excited for the Black Adam mini-series, and while it hasn't quite lived up to my expectations, it certainly hasn't been too bad. This issue delivered with a mild amount of story, but mostly served to set up for what I imagine will be the rest of the series. We see the first open confrontation between Black Adam and another metahuman, thus revealing his return to the metahuman community, as well as his attempted use of the Lazarus Pit last issue not going unnoticed.
What I like about this story is that Black Adam is really being considered a major-level threat by many sides -- it really will end up being him against the world. It's an ambitious set-up for a mini-series, but I have faith that it can be lead to a good conclusion.
The art for this series is always just fine. I'm never blown away by it, but it does a better than average job of detailing the characters in a realistic fashion.
Overall, this was a pretty good issue, definitely leading me to look forward to the future issues of this series.
I was pretty excited for the Black Adam mini-series, and while it hasn't quite lived up to my expectations, it certainly hasn't been too bad. This issue delivered with a mild amount of story, but mostly served to set up for what I imagine will be the rest of the series. We see the first open confrontation between Black Adam and another metahuman, thus revealing his return to the metahuman community, as well as his attempted use of the Lazarus Pit last issue not going unnoticed.
What I like about this story is that Black Adam is really being considered a major-level threat by many sides -- it really will end up being him against the world. It's an ambitious set-up for a mini-series, but I have faith that it can be lead to a good conclusion.
The art for this series is always just fine. I'm never blown away by it, but it does a better than average job of detailing the characters in a realistic fashion.
Overall, this was a pretty good issue, definitely leading me to look forward to the future issues of this series.
Batman Confidential #10
One-sentence summary: The newest edition of the Joker's origin nears its conclusion in this darkly drawn tale from early in Batman's life.
Now, I'm not entirely certain that I support a new origin to the Joker, but at least I can lay back safe in the knowledge they'll never give him an absolute origin, just a variety of possible origins. However, this one's not been bad, though with some elements that are a bit off (Batman ordering a death?).
The story is fittingly dark and does a good job of establishing the Joker's physical abilities, as well as setting up the irony of Batman creating his own worst enemy, and, for that matter, the presence of superheroes creating the supervillain in general. For that, this is a pretty interesting comic.
The story is generally good, but the dialogue simply serves to get the job done. Nothing strikingly bad, but I can't imagine these lines being quoted. I actually like the art; heavily penciled, it manages to give a dark feel to the story without diminishing the brightness or contrast used with the colors.
Not too bad. I see that this story has several more issues left, which seems like a bit much, but this issue wraps up the first half of it very well and, including the last two issues, could serve as a good self-contained 3-part story.
Now, I'm not entirely certain that I support a new origin to the Joker, but at least I can lay back safe in the knowledge they'll never give him an absolute origin, just a variety of possible origins. However, this one's not been bad, though with some elements that are a bit off (Batman ordering a death?).
The story is fittingly dark and does a good job of establishing the Joker's physical abilities, as well as setting up the irony of Batman creating his own worst enemy, and, for that matter, the presence of superheroes creating the supervillain in general. For that, this is a pretty interesting comic.
The story is generally good, but the dialogue simply serves to get the job done. Nothing strikingly bad, but I can't imagine these lines being quoted. I actually like the art; heavily penciled, it manages to give a dark feel to the story without diminishing the brightness or contrast used with the colors.
Not too bad. I see that this story has several more issues left, which seems like a bit much, but this issue wraps up the first half of it very well and, including the last two issues, could serve as a good self-contained 3-part story.
The All-New Booster Gold #3
One-sentence summary: The new Booster Gold series continues to be entertaining with plenty of time-travel fun.
After a couple of start-up issues, the new Booster Gold title is really starting to get rolling. In this issue, Johns gives us a rather fun, if somewhat unnecessary, scene with Jonah Hex. The writing in this series has done a good job of bouncing between the more serious story of Rip Hunter and Booster trying to stop the time criminals and the relaxed, almost silly, dialogue between Booster, his ancestor, and anyone they encounter.
The art in this series works very well. Bright, colorful, and generally solid, it doesn't try to push the series to be anything it's not.
This is a pretty nice series. I've been enjoying its mix of some humor with a strong superhero story. Hopefully it doesn't delve too far one way or another, but so far it's been good.
After a couple of start-up issues, the new Booster Gold title is really starting to get rolling. In this issue, Johns gives us a rather fun, if somewhat unnecessary, scene with Jonah Hex. The writing in this series has done a good job of bouncing between the more serious story of Rip Hunter and Booster trying to stop the time criminals and the relaxed, almost silly, dialogue between Booster, his ancestor, and anyone they encounter.
The art in this series works very well. Bright, colorful, and generally solid, it doesn't try to push the series to be anything it's not.
This is a pretty nice series. I've been enjoying its mix of some humor with a strong superhero story. Hopefully it doesn't delve too far one way or another, but so far it's been good.
I'm back -- sorta
Alright, so, here's a quick return post:
Between school and the rest of life, things have been hectic enough lately that I've barely had enough time to read comics, let alone write about them. However, I'm going to try to start a little bit. At least intermittently.
Between school and the rest of life, things have been hectic enough lately that I've barely had enough time to read comics, let alone write about them. However, I'm going to try to start a little bit. At least intermittently.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
A Quick Explanation
I hate to do this before I've written a full month of reviews, but the next two weeks are going to be pretty shaky as far as updates go. Work ended last week, I just moved, I don't have any internet from my apartment, my laptop's on the fritz, and I'll be about 500 miles from my hard drives, comics, laptop, and internet connection for all of next week. Things will be back on track in...two weeks.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Countdown #38
One-sentence summary: Quite a bit more action in this issue, a little bit of plot development, and (hurray) absolutely nothing about Amazons Attack.
Honestly, this was one of the best issues of Countdown yet. If I were to make a single complaint with it, I'd say that there wasn't a ton of plot to it, just scenes and action, but it still had more plot than the usual issue of Countdown. I really liked this issue; maybe it was just me, but the artwork even seemed to be a bit better.
First off, all the action with Zatanna and Mary Marvel was interesting and definitely was a cool way to show Zatanna how Mary's changed, as well as developing the Apokolips plot some (I had just been reading the Forever People, so seeing an Omega or Alpha bullet, whatever it was called, was cool). While it would be a disappointing end if that's all they did with the Question and Batwoman, the scene with them and Piper/Trickster was absolutely fantastic. The puppets, man, the puppets! The Karate Kid development was, at least for me, a bit surprising. Maybe I should've seen this coming, but I didn't.
Nothing really happened with Jimmy Olsen, despite the fact that he was on the cover of the issue. He got rejected from Titans, that was all. Woo. While I do like the cover, I think a better one probably would've been Trickster doing a puppet show for an irritated Question and Batwoman, but, hey, that's just my two cents.
No Amazons Attack plot! Woo! I hate that plot so much.
Also, however, no Ray Palmer plot. I guess this might be because The All-New Atom #14 had a fair amount of development on this storyline, so they figured people got their Atom fix last week, they can take a break on that. I accept this, particularly since they write Ryan Choi so poorly.
Good issue, all in all. They moved things along at a decent pace, that damnable "History of the Multiverse" section is finally over, and they had a good mix of action and comedy in it. For this, I'm pretty satisfied.
Honestly, this was one of the best issues of Countdown yet. If I were to make a single complaint with it, I'd say that there wasn't a ton of plot to it, just scenes and action, but it still had more plot than the usual issue of Countdown. I really liked this issue; maybe it was just me, but the artwork even seemed to be a bit better.
First off, all the action with Zatanna and Mary Marvel was interesting and definitely was a cool way to show Zatanna how Mary's changed, as well as developing the Apokolips plot some (I had just been reading the Forever People, so seeing an Omega or Alpha bullet, whatever it was called, was cool). While it would be a disappointing end if that's all they did with the Question and Batwoman, the scene with them and Piper/Trickster was absolutely fantastic. The puppets, man, the puppets! The Karate Kid development was, at least for me, a bit surprising. Maybe I should've seen this coming, but I didn't.
Nothing really happened with Jimmy Olsen, despite the fact that he was on the cover of the issue. He got rejected from Titans, that was all. Woo. While I do like the cover, I think a better one probably would've been Trickster doing a puppet show for an irritated Question and Batwoman, but, hey, that's just my two cents.
No Amazons Attack plot! Woo! I hate that plot so much.
Also, however, no Ray Palmer plot. I guess this might be because The All-New Atom #14 had a fair amount of development on this storyline, so they figured people got their Atom fix last week, they can take a break on that. I accept this, particularly since they write Ryan Choi so poorly.
Good issue, all in all. They moved things along at a decent pace, that damnable "History of the Multiverse" section is finally over, and they had a good mix of action and comedy in it. For this, I'm pretty satisfied.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Crécy
One-sentence summary: This unusual one-shot from Warren Ellis presents the battle of Crécy in a realistic, period-based narrative with stunning art.
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect, which turned out to be good as I never would have expected what I got. Crécy is a graphic novel written following one soldier as he tells us (directly speaking to us, a modern-day audience) the background, motivation, and effects of the battle of Crécy. Not only was it historically accurate, but I don't think it's too much of a stretch to say that this was educational. Now, don't get me wrong, it, being about a battle, has action in it as well, and as it tries to be true to the voice of a soldier, it's definitely explicit, so this isn't a kid's book; at the same time, though, I'd probably give this to a high schooler who's in world history.
I would have enjoyed just reading this book -- I'm a bit of a nerd, so simply reading about history's fun for me -- but what really set this apart for me as a quality read was the beautiful pencil/ink work of Raulo Caceres. Simply fantastic.
I went into this not knowing what to expect; what I got was a fantastic historical graphic novel that I'd recommend to both comic and history buffs, or those just wanting a good read.
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect, which turned out to be good as I never would have expected what I got. Crécy is a graphic novel written following one soldier as he tells us (directly speaking to us, a modern-day audience) the background, motivation, and effects of the battle of Crécy. Not only was it historically accurate, but I don't think it's too much of a stretch to say that this was educational. Now, don't get me wrong, it, being about a battle, has action in it as well, and as it tries to be true to the voice of a soldier, it's definitely explicit, so this isn't a kid's book; at the same time, though, I'd probably give this to a high schooler who's in world history.
I would have enjoyed just reading this book -- I'm a bit of a nerd, so simply reading about history's fun for me -- but what really set this apart for me as a quality read was the beautiful pencil/ink work of Raulo Caceres. Simply fantastic.
I went into this not knowing what to expect; what I got was a fantastic historical graphic novel that I'd recommend to both comic and history buffs, or those just wanting a good read.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Doktor Sleepless #1
One-sentence summary: Warren Ellis' new Sci-Fi series delivers a promising start, replete with interesting characters and a plain-spoken version of Ellis' futurism.
While a series can't really be judged well by a first issue, Doktor Sleepless certainly seems like it will be an interesting read. Its gritty art matches the story well. The designs on the various futuristic elements of the story grounds them in such a way that this future seems not just realistic, but near.
This is a well-done start to what hopefully will be an interesting new Ellis story. Hopefully a more complete review can be given for future issues, but, for now, things are looking very interesting.
While a series can't really be judged well by a first issue, Doktor Sleepless certainly seems like it will be an interesting read. Its gritty art matches the story well. The designs on the various futuristic elements of the story grounds them in such a way that this future seems not just realistic, but near.
This is a well-done start to what hopefully will be an interesting new Ellis story. Hopefully a more complete review can be given for future issues, but, for now, things are looking very interesting.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Justice League Unlimited #36
One-sentence summary: I post a review for this all-ages kid's comic because, well, it's good.
I have a soft spot in my heart for the fun comics. I think we all should, really, because as much as some things might make a person think otherwise, that is the source of the entire industry and generally remains a large portion of its income. To deny the place in the modern age of fun comics would be pretty ridiculous, as I think it's bad enough most of them are sold as more or less kids' only books. I may start posting reviews here of at least the really excellent titles that are coming out under this, and one of those is definitely JLU.
Based off the cartoon show, the art in this book maintains the cartoon's feel, which was something I grew up on and thus can appreciate, even if it doesn't fully work in a comic. The writers rotate on this, a new one writing about a new character every month who has the spotlight, while other characters are also involved in the story. In this month's issue, we get a Question who's much more Rorschach than he is any form of the Question, filled with paranoia and going days and days without sleep while solving the case, every sentence chopped off. His dialogue is absolutely perfect for a character; I would buy a comic starring him, certainly.
So, in this kids book, we get fun references to more or less every major conspiracy theory and monster in urban legend in a handful of pages, all the while being convinced of the Question's growing insanity until the last couple of pages where the reveal occurs.
This is a comic I would buy to make a kid fall in love with comics. You get them introduced to all sorts of characters every month, you have fun and accessible stories, and they've got good writing. If Dan Didio kills this title off due to his hatred of the DCAU, I'll lose one of my favorite titles and the industry will lose one of the most underappreciated titles out there.
I have a soft spot in my heart for the fun comics. I think we all should, really, because as much as some things might make a person think otherwise, that is the source of the entire industry and generally remains a large portion of its income. To deny the place in the modern age of fun comics would be pretty ridiculous, as I think it's bad enough most of them are sold as more or less kids' only books. I may start posting reviews here of at least the really excellent titles that are coming out under this, and one of those is definitely JLU.
Based off the cartoon show, the art in this book maintains the cartoon's feel, which was something I grew up on and thus can appreciate, even if it doesn't fully work in a comic. The writers rotate on this, a new one writing about a new character every month who has the spotlight, while other characters are also involved in the story. In this month's issue, we get a Question who's much more Rorschach than he is any form of the Question, filled with paranoia and going days and days without sleep while solving the case, every sentence chopped off. His dialogue is absolutely perfect for a character; I would buy a comic starring him, certainly.
So, in this kids book, we get fun references to more or less every major conspiracy theory and monster in urban legend in a handful of pages, all the while being convinced of the Question's growing insanity until the last couple of pages where the reveal occurs.
This is a comic I would buy to make a kid fall in love with comics. You get them introduced to all sorts of characters every month, you have fun and accessible stories, and they've got good writing. If Dan Didio kills this title off due to his hatred of the DCAU, I'll lose one of my favorite titles and the industry will lose one of the most underappreciated titles out there.
Jonah Hex #22
One-sentence summary: While usually a good title, I felt this issue of Jonah Hex was a bit off of the latest run, steering away from the gritty realism of the last several issues and going with a steampunk adventure starring Edison and Tesla from the sidelines.
I've been liking Jonah Hex, but part of the reason I've been liking it is because, as a friend put it, it's a Clint Eastwood movie put into comic form. Clint Eastwood movies do not revolve around automatons/robots (two very different things usually considered the same in any steampunk story).
I guess that's my real grief with this. It was just such a departure from the Jonah Hex that I've gotten used to, now I don't know if I should expect renegade cowboys or time travelers in the next issue. Hopefully the former. As its own story, it's not horrible. It exaggerates, obviously, the feud between Edison and Tesla, but I can deal with that. I didn't think it was as high of quality of story as you normally find with Jonah Hex, though. The art was still great, though, and the cover is pretty fantastic, even if I didn't like the subject matter of the story.
I've been liking Jonah Hex, but part of the reason I've been liking it is because, as a friend put it, it's a Clint Eastwood movie put into comic form. Clint Eastwood movies do not revolve around automatons/robots (two very different things usually considered the same in any steampunk story).
I guess that's my real grief with this. It was just such a departure from the Jonah Hex that I've gotten used to, now I don't know if I should expect renegade cowboys or time travelers in the next issue. Hopefully the former. As its own story, it's not horrible. It exaggerates, obviously, the feud between Edison and Tesla, but I can deal with that. I didn't think it was as high of quality of story as you normally find with Jonah Hex, though. The art was still great, though, and the cover is pretty fantastic, even if I didn't like the subject matter of the story.
Daredevil: Battlin' Jack Murdock #3 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: A fairly unnecessary mini-series, this issue doesn't deliver anything unexpected.
I don't really get the point of this series. They're giving us background on Daredevil's dad, which is nice, but I have no idea why it's four issues long. This very well could've been a one-shot, as far as I'm concerned, and just been paced more tightly. As it is, we have a pretty basic story -- old fighter gets back into ring only to learn that mob is fixing the fights so that he can take a big-time fall, thus disappointing his family and friends -- that's been stretched to ridiculous lengths. The art's gritty and bloody and begins to wear on you after an issue or two.
This isn't a bad idea for an issue, but it's a bad idea for a mini-series. Also, I have to question its timing -- is there any reason to push out a poorly conceived Daredevil mini-series right now? I think this book is just missing it in every way.
I don't really get the point of this series. They're giving us background on Daredevil's dad, which is nice, but I have no idea why it's four issues long. This very well could've been a one-shot, as far as I'm concerned, and just been paced more tightly. As it is, we have a pretty basic story -- old fighter gets back into ring only to learn that mob is fixing the fights so that he can take a big-time fall, thus disappointing his family and friends -- that's been stretched to ridiculous lengths. The art's gritty and bloody and begins to wear on you after an issue or two.
This isn't a bad idea for an issue, but it's a bad idea for a mini-series. Also, I have to question its timing -- is there any reason to push out a poorly conceived Daredevil mini-series right now? I think this book is just missing it in every way.
Spider-Man/Fantastic Four #4 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: This short, light mini-series comes to an end, with happy endings all around.
This was a pretty light series to review. I mean, it was fun, but it wasn't ground-breaking or anything, though that wasn't its intention, I'm sure. It did what it was trying to do, which was just give a bit of a nice story for all ages without it being a bad book. In regards to that, it did it well, with a line here or there that was good and an acceptable resolution to the plot. Not too bad, really.
This was a pretty light series to review. I mean, it was fun, but it wasn't ground-breaking or anything, though that wasn't its intention, I'm sure. It did what it was trying to do, which was just give a bit of a nice story for all ages without it being a bad book. In regards to that, it did it well, with a line here or there that was good and an acceptable resolution to the plot. Not too bad, really.
Irredeemable Ant-Man #11
One-sentence summary: In this almost wrap-up issue, Kirkman wonderfully delivers Eric O'Grady as he should be: a truly unlikable jerk of a character.
I've loved this comic. I've loved the fact that, yeah, Eric's a jerk. A huge jerk, for that matter, willing to do just about anything to save his own skin and come out ahead. That's why last issue, Obligatory Hulk Tie-In #10, didn't make any sense to me, but, eh, whatever.
I'll miss this comic. The art's bright and is soley responsible for this comic being fun; if the art were at all dark, we'd realize more fully what a plain out ass Eric is. The writing keeps things going, the dialogue crisp and the plot well-done, each revelation of Eric's shallowness more shocking than the last, whether it be breaking up with a woman loudly and painfully because she has a kid, playing with his dead friend's girlfriend's emotions so that she'll make out with him on the friend's still-fresh grave, or selling out a friend who just invaded a SHIELD Helicarrier for him in order to get his crappy old job back.
Ant-Man did what it did well, and that was a comic about a truly awful protagonist, accidentally thrust into the world of superheroes and doing anything he can to make some money and get some tail from it. For that, this was good. I think Kirkman wanted this comic to go on longer, as twelve issues is a pretty measly run for a monthly, but he's done a great job with it.
I've loved this comic. I've loved the fact that, yeah, Eric's a jerk. A huge jerk, for that matter, willing to do just about anything to save his own skin and come out ahead. That's why last issue, Obligatory Hulk Tie-In #10, didn't make any sense to me, but, eh, whatever.
I'll miss this comic. The art's bright and is soley responsible for this comic being fun; if the art were at all dark, we'd realize more fully what a plain out ass Eric is. The writing keeps things going, the dialogue crisp and the plot well-done, each revelation of Eric's shallowness more shocking than the last, whether it be breaking up with a woman loudly and painfully because she has a kid, playing with his dead friend's girlfriend's emotions so that she'll make out with him on the friend's still-fresh grave, or selling out a friend who just invaded a SHIELD Helicarrier for him in order to get his crappy old job back.
Ant-Man did what it did well, and that was a comic about a truly awful protagonist, accidentally thrust into the world of superheroes and doing anything he can to make some money and get some tail from it. For that, this was good. I think Kirkman wanted this comic to go on longer, as twelve issues is a pretty measly run for a monthly, but he's done a great job with it.
Outsiders: Five of a Kind #1 Nightwing/Boomerang
One-sentence summary: This just seemed like a poorly plotted story with decent writing.
Honestly, the writing behind this seemed decently thought out and certain points were made very well. If the rest of the story hadn't stunk, I think it would've been a pretty eloquent way to illustrate the relationship between Nightwing and Boomerang. However, it lost me from the get-go. The entire idea of sending two more or less normal people, in comparison to most the supehero world, off to fight a gigantic sentient batch of radioactive, deadly acid is so ridiculous that, even in comic book form, it comes off as unlikely. That's a challenge.
The art was varied in this, although was never really bad. I'm generally not as much an art guy as some folks (I've got the select few I really like, but mostly I don't notice) so I won't comment on art that neither impresses me nor horrifies me.
I want the new Outsiders to be good, I do. This was a sort of blah start to things, but hopefully things will pick up in the next few weeks with this title, but we'll see.
Honestly, the writing behind this seemed decently thought out and certain points were made very well. If the rest of the story hadn't stunk, I think it would've been a pretty eloquent way to illustrate the relationship between Nightwing and Boomerang. However, it lost me from the get-go. The entire idea of sending two more or less normal people, in comparison to most the supehero world, off to fight a gigantic sentient batch of radioactive, deadly acid is so ridiculous that, even in comic book form, it comes off as unlikely. That's a challenge.
The art was varied in this, although was never really bad. I'm generally not as much an art guy as some folks (I've got the select few I really like, but mostly I don't notice) so I won't comment on art that neither impresses me nor horrifies me.
I want the new Outsiders to be good, I do. This was a sort of blah start to things, but hopefully things will pick up in the next few weeks with this title, but we'll see.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Nightwing #135
One-sentence summary: A pretty superfluous issue, this spends an entire issue covering things from the last couple of issues while more or less not moving the plot at all.
This seemed pretty unnecessary to me. The entire issue focuses on Vigilante's interrogation of Dick Grayson after last issue's capture, but we don't really learn anything new. In fact, the entire issue has about as much plot as, say, 2 or 3 pages could have. In trade paperback form, I'm moderately certain that you could not even include this issue and the story would seem uninterrupted.
Top that off with the fact that the story that this issue is a part of is only barely more interesting than the last several Nightwing arcs (and that's far from a compliment), you really have a book that's not worth looking at. F--.
This seemed pretty unnecessary to me. The entire issue focuses on Vigilante's interrogation of Dick Grayson after last issue's capture, but we don't really learn anything new. In fact, the entire issue has about as much plot as, say, 2 or 3 pages could have. In trade paperback form, I'm moderately certain that you could not even include this issue and the story would seem uninterrupted.
Top that off with the fact that the story that this issue is a part of is only barely more interesting than the last several Nightwing arcs (and that's far from a compliment), you really have a book that's not worth looking at. F--.
Friday, August 3, 2007
The All-New Atom #14
One-sentence: Finally, a countdown tie-in that keeps the flavor of the original book while advancing a plot.
This was good. The last issue of the Atom was, well, not so good, really, but this one makes up for it. Not only do we have the best Countdown tie-in I've seen, but we have a very good story on its own. Honestly, any book featuring jet pack Hitler, let alone a panel featuring in-battle musings over punching out an evil horse, is automatically a gold-star book in my opinion.
Seriously, jet pack Hitler. Awesome.
The art really worked well for this out-there issue. And I liked that Ryan Choi had some chance to be his own character instead of just standing there occasionally muttering "Ray Palmer is sooo dreamy," ala Countdown. Nope, instead we get his character, the very defensive, logical Choi. I do hope this title sticks around; now with the Dr. 13 mini over, it's my favorite place for crazy antics in the DCU, and it happens to have a pretty good story on top of all that!
Oh, not just jet pack Hitler, but circus peanuts as a motif. Again, awesome.
This was good. The last issue of the Atom was, well, not so good, really, but this one makes up for it. Not only do we have the best Countdown tie-in I've seen, but we have a very good story on its own. Honestly, any book featuring jet pack Hitler, let alone a panel featuring in-battle musings over punching out an evil horse, is automatically a gold-star book in my opinion.
Seriously, jet pack Hitler. Awesome.
The art really worked well for this out-there issue. And I liked that Ryan Choi had some chance to be his own character instead of just standing there occasionally muttering "Ray Palmer is sooo dreamy," ala Countdown. Nope, instead we get his character, the very defensive, logical Choi. I do hope this title sticks around; now with the Dr. 13 mini over, it's my favorite place for crazy antics in the DCU, and it happens to have a pretty good story on top of all that!
Oh, not just jet pack Hitler, but circus peanuts as a motif. Again, awesome.
Uncanny X-Men #489
One-sentence summary: This mediocre storyline about the Morlocks plods on.
I like Brubaker normally, but I'm just not feeling this story at all. I really don't have a lot of critique or anything; it's just plain not very good. Sometimes you're reading something and it's laughably bad, but here it's just not enjoyable. The storyline didn't really go anywhere here, the only action occurred off-panel, and I care about none of the characters more or less than I did.
As an aside, I found the use of actual photographs in a comic book sort of unsettling (the big one was the TV screen near the beginning). It looks too out of place.
There really aren't too many X-Men titles I'm enjoying right now, and this isn't one of them. Hopefully once this ugly storyline's over things might pick up.
I like Brubaker normally, but I'm just not feeling this story at all. I really don't have a lot of critique or anything; it's just plain not very good. Sometimes you're reading something and it's laughably bad, but here it's just not enjoyable. The storyline didn't really go anywhere here, the only action occurred off-panel, and I care about none of the characters more or less than I did.
As an aside, I found the use of actual photographs in a comic book sort of unsettling (the big one was the TV screen near the beginning). It looks too out of place.
There really aren't too many X-Men titles I'm enjoying right now, and this isn't one of them. Hopefully once this ugly storyline's over things might pick up.
Thor #2
One-sentence summary: Thor's new book continues to be interesting, though these last two issues have really just served as a prologue (though a cool one).
I'm liking this new Thor. Straczynski is using his ability to make any character broody and detached for good here, as it works pretty well for Thor to seem detached from the world of man. I also like the new look for Thor; classic, but it has been changed a little. The chain mail's a nice touch.
I think Straczynski's the right guy to go about restoring Thor to the Marvel universe as something different than the average superhero. I mean, he is a god after all; his stories need to be different than "beats the Absorbing Man again."
Though nothing action-packed happened in this issue, cool things did happen; for one thing, we saw him summon Asgard in a patch of Oklahoma he bought for a deal of "all the gold you can carry." I'm looking forward to the next issue, as it looks like more action will be happening than in this one, and I'm hoping that this search for the gods arc goes well. I think it will.
I'm liking this new Thor. Straczynski is using his ability to make any character broody and detached for good here, as it works pretty well for Thor to seem detached from the world of man. I also like the new look for Thor; classic, but it has been changed a little. The chain mail's a nice touch.
I think Straczynski's the right guy to go about restoring Thor to the Marvel universe as something different than the average superhero. I mean, he is a god after all; his stories need to be different than "beats the Absorbing Man again."
Though nothing action-packed happened in this issue, cool things did happen; for one thing, we saw him summon Asgard in a patch of Oklahoma he bought for a deal of "all the gold you can carry." I'm looking forward to the next issue, as it looks like more action will be happening than in this one, and I'm hoping that this search for the gods arc goes well. I think it will.
New Warriors #3
One-sentence summary: Man, nothing really gets me excited like a comic featuring Night Thrasher AND Jubilee.
You know why this series is just a bad idea? The whole reason the New Warriors were used to start the Civil War is that they were a bad joke. They were very boring characters, with boring powers, with boring writers. So, as good an idea as it is to just add Jubilee into the mix to liven things up -- well, that's not a good idea at all. In fact, I think you can make a nice little chart showing how, in on-going titles, sales dip with Jubilee's presence, and books that always have her in them more or less always do poorly (e.g., Generation X).
So, as a bad idea, how is it? Unsurprisingly, it's a dull book. I'm not particularly drawn to any of the characters or what they're dealing with; also, I'm not sure we've actually seen a real fight yet. Also, why did Wolverine just appear? Isn't he busy? How is he there? Does every character in the Marvel 616-universe have the additional superpower of "Wolverine summoning" where he'll just pop-up to plug his crappy book?
This is a waste of a book. There was no demand for this, and they're not doing a good job with the material they do have; why does this title exist? I can think of series that got cancelled I'd rather read than this. I certainly hope it picks up soon.
You know why this series is just a bad idea? The whole reason the New Warriors were used to start the Civil War is that they were a bad joke. They were very boring characters, with boring powers, with boring writers. So, as good an idea as it is to just add Jubilee into the mix to liven things up -- well, that's not a good idea at all. In fact, I think you can make a nice little chart showing how, in on-going titles, sales dip with Jubilee's presence, and books that always have her in them more or less always do poorly (e.g., Generation X).
So, as a bad idea, how is it? Unsurprisingly, it's a dull book. I'm not particularly drawn to any of the characters or what they're dealing with; also, I'm not sure we've actually seen a real fight yet. Also, why did Wolverine just appear? Isn't he busy? How is he there? Does every character in the Marvel 616-universe have the additional superpower of "Wolverine summoning" where he'll just pop-up to plug his crappy book?
This is a waste of a book. There was no demand for this, and they're not doing a good job with the material they do have; why does this title exist? I can think of series that got cancelled I'd rather read than this. I certainly hope it picks up soon.
Metal Men #1 (of 8)
One-sentence summary: Hopefully this will make more sense next month?
I wanted to like this title, but as is I'm just a bit confused. Is this an elseworlds title, or is it regular continuity? My reason for the confusion is that it's being pulled, it seems, from both Superman/Batman and 52. I know Superman/Batman started off as a Earth-1 series or whatever, but it's definitely Elseworlds at this point, in that nothing that happens there matches up to regular continuity in any way, even given massive allowances for errors. So, I'm not sure which in the Metal Men line it is. Also, we haven't really gotten to the story yet; we've a flashback sequence with Dr. Morrow and Magnus (who I thought were colleagues, but apparently were mentor/mentee first?) and an appearance of not-flashback Magnus at the end. Also, an action sequence at the beginning which hasn't really tied into anything yet.
I like the dialogue between the Metal Men (poor Lead), but the confusion is the biggest aspect of this title for me, and the art doesn't really help it (I don't like the artist's style, personally). Hopefully next month will see a better review for this, as I like the Metal Men and want their comics to be good, but right now there's just not enough in this issue for a story; they're just events waiting to be connected.
Also, "based off ideas by Grant Morrison"? He now gets credit for the Metal Men? That seems odd.
I wanted to like this title, but as is I'm just a bit confused. Is this an elseworlds title, or is it regular continuity? My reason for the confusion is that it's being pulled, it seems, from both Superman/Batman and 52. I know Superman/Batman started off as a Earth-1 series or whatever, but it's definitely Elseworlds at this point, in that nothing that happens there matches up to regular continuity in any way, even given massive allowances for errors. So, I'm not sure which in the Metal Men line it is. Also, we haven't really gotten to the story yet; we've a flashback sequence with Dr. Morrow and Magnus (who I thought were colleagues, but apparently were mentor/mentee first?) and an appearance of not-flashback Magnus at the end. Also, an action sequence at the beginning which hasn't really tied into anything yet.
I like the dialogue between the Metal Men (poor Lead), but the confusion is the biggest aspect of this title for me, and the art doesn't really help it (I don't like the artist's style, personally). Hopefully next month will see a better review for this, as I like the Metal Men and want their comics to be good, but right now there's just not enough in this issue for a story; they're just events waiting to be connected.
Also, "based off ideas by Grant Morrison"? He now gets credit for the Metal Men? That seems odd.
Black Canary #3 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: Come one, come all to watch Green Arrow screw up his potential marriage through subterfuge in regards to her kid in this decent series.
Not a bad issue at all. While I'm not totally into this series, I definitely enjoy it for five minutes once every two weeks. The big highlight in this was just seeing Black Canary whoop on pretty much everyone. Good job, comic.
I do want to see how this series finishes, as the cliffhanger end on this would be really sad without a reveal. So far, the art's been fine and the dialogue's been fine. This isn't a particularly great comic, but it's not bad, and it's all part of DC's nefarious plan to have a Green Arrow comic out every week (?). Why is DC pushing Green Arrow so hard, so suddenly? They must want to kill him.
That, folks, was a very bad, overly dry crack at the DC editorial staff.
Anyway, Black Canary: not bad, but not great. A couple of good moments with the lead character, I will say, so that was nice to see.
Not a bad issue at all. While I'm not totally into this series, I definitely enjoy it for five minutes once every two weeks. The big highlight in this was just seeing Black Canary whoop on pretty much everyone. Good job, comic.
I do want to see how this series finishes, as the cliffhanger end on this would be really sad without a reveal. So far, the art's been fine and the dialogue's been fine. This isn't a particularly great comic, but it's not bad, and it's all part of DC's nefarious plan to have a Green Arrow comic out every week (?). Why is DC pushing Green Arrow so hard, so suddenly? They must want to kill him.
That, folks, was a very bad, overly dry crack at the DC editorial staff.
Anyway, Black Canary: not bad, but not great. A couple of good moments with the lead character, I will say, so that was nice to see.
She-Hulk #20
One-sentence summary: The big wrap-up for the last twenty issues of She-Hulk, it doesn't disappoint with plenty of self-referential jokes and general goofiness, as well as an excellent job of wrapping up loose ends.
Really, this issue does such a remarkable job wrapping up every loose end that you can tell that Slott isn't just a huge comic book fan (which the subject matter of She-Hulk really should've clued you onto), but also knows their weaknesses well too and avoids those mistakes. It makes me wonder how he would do on a more serious title; I hope I see more of his stuff soon.
But, back to She-Hulk. It's been a good run, but it's almost over. We hear in this how She-Hulk defended the Marvel universe from annhilation over the Ultimate due to the fact that the Marvel is "fun." Also, honestly, I think I would probably buy a book that was just Stu's adventures across the Marvel universe, desperately trying to avoid comic book characters.
This was a good issue. It'll be sad to see She-Hulk move on, but I accept it and I'm sure that a more serious take on the character could be nice too. We still have one more issue left, though I don't know what else they have to do. Also, I love the last panel reveal on this, and truly hope that that's all that's ever said about it.
Really, this issue does such a remarkable job wrapping up every loose end that you can tell that Slott isn't just a huge comic book fan (which the subject matter of She-Hulk really should've clued you onto), but also knows their weaknesses well too and avoids those mistakes. It makes me wonder how he would do on a more serious title; I hope I see more of his stuff soon.
But, back to She-Hulk. It's been a good run, but it's almost over. We hear in this how She-Hulk defended the Marvel universe from annhilation over the Ultimate due to the fact that the Marvel is "fun." Also, honestly, I think I would probably buy a book that was just Stu's adventures across the Marvel universe, desperately trying to avoid comic book characters.
This was a good issue. It'll be sad to see She-Hulk move on, but I accept it and I'm sure that a more serious take on the character could be nice too. We still have one more issue left, though I don't know what else they have to do. Also, I love the last panel reveal on this, and truly hope that that's all that's ever said about it.
Punisher #50
One-sentence summary: Barracuda's back in this bloody start of what could be a great Punisher run.
I think Ennis's Punisher is hit-or-miss, sometimes even issue to issue, let alone story to story. The last story arc I wasn't a huge fan of, as it really seemed stretched, but the one before that was good. I guess it just varies.
This, though, looks like it could be great. You have Barracuda, who's quickly becoming a surprisingly cool and resourceful villain, and a last page reveal that's actually important to Punisher. Overall, this looks like it could be a really good story, and the art all fits Punisher very well. Ennis does a good job writing the Baracuda as this crafty, ruthless man, willing to kill dozens of people to lure the Punisher out.
Great action in this, some emotions from the protagonist for once, a good villain, and an interesting twist; all of this could lead to a pretty good comic. I'd keep my eye on this story arc.
I think Ennis's Punisher is hit-or-miss, sometimes even issue to issue, let alone story to story. The last story arc I wasn't a huge fan of, as it really seemed stretched, but the one before that was good. I guess it just varies.
This, though, looks like it could be great. You have Barracuda, who's quickly becoming a surprisingly cool and resourceful villain, and a last page reveal that's actually important to Punisher. Overall, this looks like it could be a really good story, and the art all fits Punisher very well. Ennis does a good job writing the Baracuda as this crafty, ruthless man, willing to kill dozens of people to lure the Punisher out.
Great action in this, some emotions from the protagonist for once, a good villain, and an interesting twist; all of this could lead to a pretty good comic. I'd keep my eye on this story arc.
New Avengers Illuminati #4 (of 5)
One-sentence summary: Opening with some good "Oh women" dialogue, this issue of Illuminati's not too bad, with some great Namor scenes.
This wasn't too bad. The art was good, and the dialogue was, when actual dialogue and not monologues, pretty good. I like Bendis for that. However, the monologues seemed to be a large portion of the issue and, well, that doesn't make for much excitement. Still, though, seeing Namor beat the crud out of the kid was pretty good.
Pretty neutral towards this one. The debates on power use are really the best reoccurring part of this book, I will say. I didn't think it was as good as any of the other issues from the series, but it still had its moments.
This wasn't too bad. The art was good, and the dialogue was, when actual dialogue and not monologues, pretty good. I like Bendis for that. However, the monologues seemed to be a large portion of the issue and, well, that doesn't make for much excitement. Still, though, seeing Namor beat the crud out of the kid was pretty good.
Pretty neutral towards this one. The debates on power use are really the best reoccurring part of this book, I will say. I didn't think it was as good as any of the other issues from the series, but it still had its moments.
Fantastic Four #548
One-sentence summary: Pretty basic Fantastic Four story, but there's nothing wrong with that.
Honestly, change the art around, turn down the emotions some, this story easily could have fit in the original Lee/Kirby FF. Sure, it has Storm and Black Panther in a minor role, but it wasn't that unusual to have guest superheroes in the original run either. The plot's certainly a classic: Sue gets kidnapped by evil rival of Reed (why are they always rivals of Reed? Why can't we have a supervillain who wants to kill Johnny to win a race/get more girls? Kill Ben Grimm so that he can be pestered by the Yancy Street Gang?), FF goes to the rescue.
Nothing's wrong with this sort of story. I'll admit, I like a bit more plot to my comics usually, but I still enjoyed this. Now if only they were constantly spewing exposition in alliteration...
Honestly, change the art around, turn down the emotions some, this story easily could have fit in the original Lee/Kirby FF. Sure, it has Storm and Black Panther in a minor role, but it wasn't that unusual to have guest superheroes in the original run either. The plot's certainly a classic: Sue gets kidnapped by evil rival of Reed (why are they always rivals of Reed? Why can't we have a supervillain who wants to kill Johnny to win a race/get more girls? Kill Ben Grimm so that he can be pestered by the Yancy Street Gang?), FF goes to the rescue.
Nothing's wrong with this sort of story. I'll admit, I like a bit more plot to my comics usually, but I still enjoyed this. Now if only they were constantly spewing exposition in alliteration...
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Ms. Marvel #18
One-sentence summary: Machine Man's back -- awesome.
I've generally been positive about the new Ms. Marvel series; it's not always great, but it's usually decent, with some intriguing subplots and usually at least one really good hero or villain in each story arc. However, this issue was, far and away, the best to me. Based off the summary above, you've probably figured out why.
See, I was a huge Nextwave fan. When I saw it end, I was very much down. The fact that Machine Man's back, with all his flesh-hating goodness, is absolutely fantastic to me. His character remains just as snarky as before, and you may think he's over-the-top, but of course he is, he isn't bound by fleshy limits of tact. Awesome. I'm not going to lie; every issue he's in, he's probably going to steal the show. He's the comic book equivalent of a ham -- there's just so much ridiculous character to him you're forced to pay attention. Again, I'm pretty happy about his inclusion, and that the other hero introduced is laughably bad is pretty good too.
I don't think Puppet Master has ever been as danged creepy as he is here. Eww.
This, for me, was great fun. If you weren't a fan of the Machine Man from Nextwave, well, I imagine this story arc (at least) will be pretty irritating. Ms. Marvel continues to be a better-than-average read, picking up considerably with the introduction of the renovated Machine Man.
I've generally been positive about the new Ms. Marvel series; it's not always great, but it's usually decent, with some intriguing subplots and usually at least one really good hero or villain in each story arc. However, this issue was, far and away, the best to me. Based off the summary above, you've probably figured out why.
See, I was a huge Nextwave fan. When I saw it end, I was very much down. The fact that Machine Man's back, with all his flesh-hating goodness, is absolutely fantastic to me. His character remains just as snarky as before, and you may think he's over-the-top, but of course he is, he isn't bound by fleshy limits of tact. Awesome. I'm not going to lie; every issue he's in, he's probably going to steal the show. He's the comic book equivalent of a ham -- there's just so much ridiculous character to him you're forced to pay attention. Again, I'm pretty happy about his inclusion, and that the other hero introduced is laughably bad is pretty good too.
I don't think Puppet Master has ever been as danged creepy as he is here. Eww.
This, for me, was great fun. If you weren't a fan of the Machine Man from Nextwave, well, I imagine this story arc (at least) will be pretty irritating. Ms. Marvel continues to be a better-than-average read, picking up considerably with the introduction of the renovated Machine Man.
Justice Society of America #8
One-sentence summary: While I like JSA, this is a rather plain one-shot that has a major plot point which makes no sense to me.
This wasn't that bad of an issue, it just wasn't that interesting. I did like the flashbacks to Liberty Belle's upbringing and growth as a hero, and I liked the idea of Johnny Quick as a nut. My main beef, besides it being a one-shot, was that I can't imagine the JSA being so curmudgeonly to a police force that's just doing their job. I realize that, as a one-shot, it's unlikely to have many lasting effects outside this issue, but the actions of Damage were seriously wrong. If there's no follow-up on that, then this issue really should have been looked over more. That is what editors are for; perhaps DC needs more editors who do their jobs beyond just making sure certain characters die?
The art was fine in this issue, and I really did like knowing a bit more about Liberty Belle, as I really didn't know her prior to this issue. So it wasn't like this issue was all negative -- it's just that the negative was about the main plot of the issue, so it gets highlighted. Still, I like JSA, and I'm excited over this next story arc, which promises to be pretty great. This is just a rather forgettable issue of a good series.
This wasn't that bad of an issue, it just wasn't that interesting. I did like the flashbacks to Liberty Belle's upbringing and growth as a hero, and I liked the idea of Johnny Quick as a nut. My main beef, besides it being a one-shot, was that I can't imagine the JSA being so curmudgeonly to a police force that's just doing their job. I realize that, as a one-shot, it's unlikely to have many lasting effects outside this issue, but the actions of Damage were seriously wrong. If there's no follow-up on that, then this issue really should have been looked over more. That is what editors are for; perhaps DC needs more editors who do their jobs beyond just making sure certain characters die?
The art was fine in this issue, and I really did like knowing a bit more about Liberty Belle, as I really didn't know her prior to this issue. So it wasn't like this issue was all negative -- it's just that the negative was about the main plot of the issue, so it gets highlighted. Still, I like JSA, and I'm excited over this next story arc, which promises to be pretty great. This is just a rather forgettable issue of a good series.
Detective Comics #835
One-sentence summary: A decent Scarecrow story, adding a bit more fear back into the villain who's entirely based around it.
This was, in it of itself, a pretty good issue as it really did leave me wondering how Scarecrow's doing what he's doing. However, this is a risky story; by having Scarecrow raised to this magnitude of a villain, the writer better have a good explanation for it. If the explanation for all of it is that "He can be very scary if he wants to be," then the story falls into the realm of ridiculous. I'm also not a big fan of the fact that Batman's suddenly losing his cool. What makes him Batman is that he doesn't lose his cool; but, that's ok.
It's really a fairly thrilling story for a comic. I do want to know what happens next; however, I can also see this being a let-down. I'll stay optimistic, though, and hope that this two-issue filler will have a nice ending; it had a pretty decent opening.
This was, in it of itself, a pretty good issue as it really did leave me wondering how Scarecrow's doing what he's doing. However, this is a risky story; by having Scarecrow raised to this magnitude of a villain, the writer better have a good explanation for it. If the explanation for all of it is that "He can be very scary if he wants to be," then the story falls into the realm of ridiculous. I'm also not a big fan of the fact that Batman's suddenly losing his cool. What makes him Batman is that he doesn't lose his cool; but, that's ok.
It's really a fairly thrilling story for a comic. I do want to know what happens next; however, I can also see this being a let-down. I'll stay optimistic, though, and hope that this two-issue filler will have a nice ending; it had a pretty decent opening.
Action Comics #853
One-sentence summary: What I thought was just a Countdown tie-in has proven to be a pretty decent story starring Jimmy Olsen.
I thought this was pretty good. The fight between Jimmy, who's desperately trying to figure out his powers, and the Kryptonite Man was pretty hilarious, with Jimmy's absolutely terrible bantering and muttering. The end reveal is definitely awesome, so I won't ruin that. I haven't read much with Kryptonite Man, but I'm really liking his attitude.
This was a pretty good Superman story. Really, this was (outside of All-Star) one of the best Superman stories I've read in awhile. Busiek has a real talent for writing Kryptonite Man as an enjoyable villain, and I like the furthering of the mystery of Jimmy's powers. The issue has done a good job in not only giving me a story I enjoyed reading, but also has made me more curious about the Jimmy Olsen storyline which I'll assume will mostly take place in Countdown. In any case, it was a good comic.
I thought this was pretty good. The fight between Jimmy, who's desperately trying to figure out his powers, and the Kryptonite Man was pretty hilarious, with Jimmy's absolutely terrible bantering and muttering. The end reveal is definitely awesome, so I won't ruin that. I haven't read much with Kryptonite Man, but I'm really liking his attitude.
This was a pretty good Superman story. Really, this was (outside of All-Star) one of the best Superman stories I've read in awhile. Busiek has a real talent for writing Kryptonite Man as an enjoyable villain, and I like the furthering of the mystery of Jimmy's powers. The issue has done a good job in not only giving me a story I enjoyed reading, but also has made me more curious about the Jimmy Olsen storyline which I'll assume will mostly take place in Countdown. In any case, it was a good comic.
Countdown #39
One-sentence summary: Despite a lack of Mary Marvel, not too bad an issue, with Trickster/Piper stealing the show again.
I had the same deal with this issue of countdown I've had with the last; I reach the end and say "Is that all?" One gripe: I think the "History of the Multiverse" segment has gotten out of hand. 4 pages to introduce one tiny plot element and just rehash what's been said two or three times elsewhere in the series? But, a more minor gripe.
Simplified review: Holly and the Amazons? Meh. The Question and Batgirl's reveal? Also meh -- mostly because I never cared about Batgirl, no matter how much they wanted me to. Palmerverse stuff? Nothing really happened, so I guess meh.
Now, Trickster and Piper? That was great. They really are a great pair of characters together, and watching them run from the Suicide Squad while constantly bickering was great. Karate Kid and Oracle? I'm watching that storyline, as it seems to be pretty interesting; it's been good so far. Jimmy Olsen? Entertaining, at least
Overall, pretty fun. Not a ground-breaking comic by any stretch, but it was a fun issue, even if it lacked any follow-up with Zatanna, one of my favorite characters. I'm patient enough I can wait another week for that, hah. Beyond that, there wasn't much in pages given to the storylines I don't care about, which was nice, whereas there was quite a bit for Karate Kid and Trickster/Piper, which was much appreciated. Fun stuff.
I had the same deal with this issue of countdown I've had with the last; I reach the end and say "Is that all?" One gripe: I think the "History of the Multiverse" segment has gotten out of hand. 4 pages to introduce one tiny plot element and just rehash what's been said two or three times elsewhere in the series? But, a more minor gripe.
Simplified review: Holly and the Amazons? Meh. The Question and Batgirl's reveal? Also meh -- mostly because I never cared about Batgirl, no matter how much they wanted me to. Palmerverse stuff? Nothing really happened, so I guess meh.
Now, Trickster and Piper? That was great. They really are a great pair of characters together, and watching them run from the Suicide Squad while constantly bickering was great. Karate Kid and Oracle? I'm watching that storyline, as it seems to be pretty interesting; it's been good so far. Jimmy Olsen? Entertaining, at least
Overall, pretty fun. Not a ground-breaking comic by any stretch, but it was a fun issue, even if it lacked any follow-up with Zatanna, one of my favorite characters. I'm patient enough I can wait another week for that, hah. Beyond that, there wasn't much in pages given to the storylines I don't care about, which was nice, whereas there was quite a bit for Karate Kid and Trickster/Piper, which was much appreciated. Fun stuff.
World War Hulk #3 (of 5)
One-sentence summary: Wow, amazing, Hulk takes a little break from smashing in order to watch others smash.
I guess more happened in this issue than last, but it's still not an acceptable level of plot for a monthly mega-event. Dr. Strange has a larger role in this one than in any previous one, but I really didn't like how he was written. Dr. Strange should not ever feel threatened by some alien priest; he's effin' Dr. Strange, sorcerer supreme. He marches with Eternity and whatnot; he's one of the big guys, the guy that writers have to give really lame excuses when writing in non-solo titles as to why he doesn't just win automatically. And that's what Pak has done here. Also, the end? Come on!
I like Romita's art, but it's really just not enough to save this comic. World War Hulk is getting dumber with every issue. I'm just tired of this series dominating Marvel's main comics this summer. Also, did General Ross just die? I couldn't tell, honestly. Great job on that, too, creative team.
I guess more happened in this issue than last, but it's still not an acceptable level of plot for a monthly mega-event. Dr. Strange has a larger role in this one than in any previous one, but I really didn't like how he was written. Dr. Strange should not ever feel threatened by some alien priest; he's effin' Dr. Strange, sorcerer supreme. He marches with Eternity and whatnot; he's one of the big guys, the guy that writers have to give really lame excuses when writing in non-solo titles as to why he doesn't just win automatically. And that's what Pak has done here. Also, the end? Come on!
I like Romita's art, but it's really just not enough to save this comic. World War Hulk is getting dumber with every issue. I'm just tired of this series dominating Marvel's main comics this summer. Also, did General Ross just die? I couldn't tell, honestly. Great job on that, too, creative team.
Monday, July 30, 2007
X-Men: First Class #2
One-sentence summary: More fun, but this time with some continuity, from X-Men: First Class.
I love this series. This isn't the best book from it, but it's still a far cry better than most the X-books out there. I have a real soft spot in my heart for the fun books, but this one is particularly well-done. I'm almost glad they didn't put this in the Marvel Adventures category, though it really is where it fits, because it opens it up to a wider audience (and maybe that was their intention).
I like seeing this sort of story. Still very fun, but it's pushing the boundaries on what the First Class heroes have accomplished so far, and that's ok. It's still an excellent comic, fun, monster-filled, and action-y. Yeah, I said action-y. Also, evil butterflies! And hearing about Robbie's nightmares was pretty hilarious. A good book where all the elements mesh together very well.
I love this series. This isn't the best book from it, but it's still a far cry better than most the X-books out there. I have a real soft spot in my heart for the fun books, but this one is particularly well-done. I'm almost glad they didn't put this in the Marvel Adventures category, though it really is where it fits, because it opens it up to a wider audience (and maybe that was their intention).
I like seeing this sort of story. Still very fun, but it's pushing the boundaries on what the First Class heroes have accomplished so far, and that's ok. It's still an excellent comic, fun, monster-filled, and action-y. Yeah, I said action-y. Also, evil butterflies! And hearing about Robbie's nightmares was pretty hilarious. A good book where all the elements mesh together very well.
X-Men #201
One-sentence summary: At least it has Endangered Species in the back.
I have nothing good to say about the current X-Men storyline, or the book in general. It's just bad. Everything about it is bad. The story's dumb, the dialogue is just poorly written, the characters don't act anything like they should, and the art is very far from what I like. I don't understand how wide the range of Mike Carey's quality; Crossing Midnight is this beautiful, well-plotted book, but everything else he's doing currently is abhorrent.
The Endangered Species back-up was pretty good. I liked the twist end to that, and the art's very good for that. It was a very nice bit of comic, but probably didn't justify the crap-storm that was the rest of the issue.
I have nothing good to say about the current X-Men storyline, or the book in general. It's just bad. Everything about it is bad. The story's dumb, the dialogue is just poorly written, the characters don't act anything like they should, and the art is very far from what I like. I don't understand how wide the range of Mike Carey's quality; Crossing Midnight is this beautiful, well-plotted book, but everything else he's doing currently is abhorrent.
The Endangered Species back-up was pretty good. I liked the twist end to that, and the art's very good for that. It was a very nice bit of comic, but probably didn't justify the crap-storm that was the rest of the issue.
Sensational Spider-Man #39
One-sentence summary: Eddie Brock steals the spotlight in this conclusion to the last couple of issues, which is also one of the better mainstream Spidey issues in awhile.
This was a very good issue. You feel bad for poor, crazy Eddie, but you also feel for, well, his victims. I could care less about the seance, but Brock definitely steals the show in this book as a pathetic ex-supervillain. Good job, book!
This was a very good issue. You feel bad for poor, crazy Eddie, but you also feel for, well, his victims. I could care less about the seance, but Brock definitely steals the show in this book as a pathetic ex-supervillain. Good job, book!
Wolverine #55
One-sentence summary: What, did that just happen?
This is an issue with a truly surprising two-page spread. I'm somewhat intrigued by the Romulus story, though I'm sure it will ultimately disappoint. I more or less hate Wild Child, but then again I never really liked Sabretooth. The plot's a bit half-baked, but it's not so bad right now. Maybe it's because the other Wolverine title is Origins, which is awful on a brand new scale, but I sort of like Wolverine since Loeb and Bianchi took over.
Have I mentioned that Bianchi's stuff is amazing? Honestly, the hyper-realism of his art is what sells this story. As this story is just so ridiculous, anything but Bianchi's gorgeous art would really just make the story campy, or at least far-fetched at best, but somehow it's grounded by the painted panels. Very rarely do I credit artwork with so much, but in this case it definitely deserves it.
All in all, not too bad at all. A bit out-there, but the artwork really does make it worthwhile.
This is an issue with a truly surprising two-page spread. I'm somewhat intrigued by the Romulus story, though I'm sure it will ultimately disappoint. I more or less hate Wild Child, but then again I never really liked Sabretooth. The plot's a bit half-baked, but it's not so bad right now. Maybe it's because the other Wolverine title is Origins, which is awful on a brand new scale, but I sort of like Wolverine since Loeb and Bianchi took over.
Have I mentioned that Bianchi's stuff is amazing? Honestly, the hyper-realism of his art is what sells this story. As this story is just so ridiculous, anything but Bianchi's gorgeous art would really just make the story campy, or at least far-fetched at best, but somehow it's grounded by the painted panels. Very rarely do I credit artwork with so much, but in this case it definitely deserves it.
All in all, not too bad at all. A bit out-there, but the artwork really does make it worthwhile.
Ultimate Fantastic Four #44
One-sentence summary: More Silver Surfer goodness as the Ultimate version is revealed to serve an entirely different master with some morally mixed-up motives (heh, alliteration).
Not too bad an issue. I'm off and on on Ultimate Fantastic Four, and I like that the Ultimate Silver Surfer seems to have a very different backstory from the 616-universe. However, the actual story was just meh, and, honestly, despite how much plot happened, no one did anything that interesting. It was sort of interesting to see the FF get the crap beaten out of them by the Surfer, but that was about it. I do want to see where this story goes, but the ending was, well, a bit sudden, really. I wish they had let a bit more suspense build before this issue ended.
All in all, not too bad. Not the best the series has produced, but at least the villain is more interesting than Ultimate Alchemist (though I'll admit that actually turned out to be a bit of an interesting storyline).
Not too bad an issue. I'm off and on on Ultimate Fantastic Four, and I like that the Ultimate Silver Surfer seems to have a very different backstory from the 616-universe. However, the actual story was just meh, and, honestly, despite how much plot happened, no one did anything that interesting. It was sort of interesting to see the FF get the crap beaten out of them by the Surfer, but that was about it. I do want to see where this story goes, but the ending was, well, a bit sudden, really. I wish they had let a bit more suspense build before this issue ended.
All in all, not too bad. Not the best the series has produced, but at least the villain is more interesting than Ultimate Alchemist (though I'll admit that actually turned out to be a bit of an interesting storyline).
Silver Surfer Requiem #3 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: Straczynski's obsession with death continues here, the latest installment of the Silver Surfer's alternate-universe swan song, here embodying themselves in a comic book diatribe against relgious wars (and almost against religion).
I've been alright with this series so far. It's been a bit, well, sentimental (?) so far, but it hasn't been too bad. I liked the last issue the best. This one? I could have done without.
This issue was either too blatant in its rants (does anyone who read comic books really support religion-fueled wars?), or too confusing in its conclusions. It ends with Surfer being worshipped as some sort of humanist God (which seems to be one step away from a oxymoron) after destroying established religious headquarters. Not sure really what to think of that.
The art was very nice in this, and the story wasn't really bad, I'm just not sure I was a big fan of how it got its point across. No, I'm sure of it: I disliked how they got the point across.
I've been alright with this series so far. It's been a bit, well, sentimental (?) so far, but it hasn't been too bad. I liked the last issue the best. This one? I could have done without.
This issue was either too blatant in its rants (does anyone who read comic books really support religion-fueled wars?), or too confusing in its conclusions. It ends with Surfer being worshipped as some sort of humanist God (which seems to be one step away from a oxymoron) after destroying established religious headquarters. Not sure really what to think of that.
The art was very nice in this, and the story wasn't really bad, I'm just not sure I was a big fan of how it got its point across. No, I'm sure of it: I disliked how they got the point across.
Onslaught Reborn #4 (of 5)
One-sentence summary: I wonder how many people even realize/care this title exists?
I don't even understand the purpose for this title. Did Liefeld come by, hobo-hat in hand, fingerless gloves extended in bowl shape hoping for some change, worn pencil tucked behind his ear, ratty trenchcoat almost hiding incredibly tiny ballerina feet? That is how I see this comic coming to be; between the overly-Lefield art, the horrible material, and the plodding story being told by Loeb (which I would describe as surreal in that there's no explanation given for how it started, but it's not so much surreal here as it's just bad writing), this has to be a contender for one of Marvel's worst titles. Thankfully it's almost over.
Seriously, what inspired this? Were there picket lines of angry fans demanding to see more Onslaught, to know what became of the Heroes Reborn planet (wasn't it in Exiles the other month?), to see Franklin Richards in a comic-form that's not entertaining? I only hope this isn't Marvel's awkward introduction to a whole new line of Heroes Reborn/Onslaught comics, because that would be stupid beyond words.
I don't even understand the purpose for this title. Did Liefeld come by, hobo-hat in hand, fingerless gloves extended in bowl shape hoping for some change, worn pencil tucked behind his ear, ratty trenchcoat almost hiding incredibly tiny ballerina feet? That is how I see this comic coming to be; between the overly-Lefield art, the horrible material, and the plodding story being told by Loeb (which I would describe as surreal in that there's no explanation given for how it started, but it's not so much surreal here as it's just bad writing), this has to be a contender for one of Marvel's worst titles. Thankfully it's almost over.
Seriously, what inspired this? Were there picket lines of angry fans demanding to see more Onslaught, to know what became of the Heroes Reborn planet (wasn't it in Exiles the other month?), to see Franklin Richards in a comic-form that's not entertaining? I only hope this isn't Marvel's awkward introduction to a whole new line of Heroes Reborn/Onslaught comics, because that would be stupid beyond words.
Iron Man #20
One-sentence summary: An alright World War Hulk tie-in.
This issue was better than the last, but still not great. We get very little of Iron Man or Tony Stark, but we do learn Tony's back-up plan in this issue, which I'm sure will come back in later issues of World War Hulk. In fact, I'm so certain of this that I'm sure that that important plot point will be rehashed in a main WWH title, or prove to be completely unimportant. At best, it will come back later in Iron Man as an important point against/for Tony Stark as the head of SHIELD, though I do think it'll be back later in WWH.
This wasn't too bad of an issue. I don't like how every other storyline in Iron Man has come to a grinding halt for WWH. That's not even good business; new readers to Iron Man, reading for WWH, now have no incentive to keep buying the book after WWH peters out/ends. Just my thought. Anywho, it's ok for a tie-in, but it's nothing else.
This issue was better than the last, but still not great. We get very little of Iron Man or Tony Stark, but we do learn Tony's back-up plan in this issue, which I'm sure will come back in later issues of World War Hulk. In fact, I'm so certain of this that I'm sure that that important plot point will be rehashed in a main WWH title, or prove to be completely unimportant. At best, it will come back later in Iron Man as an important point against/for Tony Stark as the head of SHIELD, though I do think it'll be back later in WWH.
This wasn't too bad of an issue. I don't like how every other storyline in Iron Man has come to a grinding halt for WWH. That's not even good business; new readers to Iron Man, reading for WWH, now have no incentive to keep buying the book after WWH peters out/ends. Just my thought. Anywho, it's ok for a tie-in, but it's nothing else.
Immortal Iron Fist #7
One-sentence summary: The non-stop action of the last six issues has taken an issue break to do a filler issue about a past Iron Fist, which is bad and good.
I've really found myself liking this run of Iron Fist. The dialogue's good, the character's been made interesting, the story's decent, the art's good, and the action's great. So, it can be understandable how I wouldn't really want a break from this.
I didn't dislike this issue. I just hope this character is important later on, otherwise this issue's a waste of an introduction. While this issue had some big flaws (didn't really like the protagonist), lots of little touches made up for that (the narration was good). Overall, not too bad, but not as good as the rest of this series has been, but that's ok.
I've really found myself liking this run of Iron Fist. The dialogue's good, the character's been made interesting, the story's decent, the art's good, and the action's great. So, it can be understandable how I wouldn't really want a break from this.
I didn't dislike this issue. I just hope this character is important later on, otherwise this issue's a waste of an introduction. While this issue had some big flaws (didn't really like the protagonist), lots of little touches made up for that (the narration was good). Overall, not too bad, but not as good as the rest of this series has been, but that's ok.
Heroes for Hire #12
One-sentence summary: Heroes for Hire continue their World War Hulk escapades, this time facing off against Hulk's Warbound, in what's surprisingly one of the more interesting tie-ins.
I don't really care about Heroes for Hire. I don't really care about World War Hulk. Why is it, then, that I enjoy this issue?
Maybe it's the interesting plot; Humbug going nuts certainly is interesting, and the entire dealing-with of the Brood intrigues me (though I'd never really thought of them as insects before, though I suppose it makes sense). It'll be interesting to see how the non-heavy-hitters of the Heroes for Hire gang deal with the Warbound, as, excepting Shang-Chi, I can't see how any of them can stand up for even a few seconds against them.
The back-up story with Paladin is pretty uninteresting, but that's forgiveable with the rest of the issue being, well, interesting.
I actually want to see this story through. I'm impressed that Heroes for Hire managed to put out a rather interesting issue, all while under the World War Hulk tie-in editorial rules (no major plot developments that would affect WWH, etc). Even the characters stay somewhat true to themselves (I don't quite know why Black Cat stuck around, but at least that's a relatively minor issue). Good job, issue.
I don't really care about Heroes for Hire. I don't really care about World War Hulk. Why is it, then, that I enjoy this issue?
Maybe it's the interesting plot; Humbug going nuts certainly is interesting, and the entire dealing-with of the Brood intrigues me (though I'd never really thought of them as insects before, though I suppose it makes sense). It'll be interesting to see how the non-heavy-hitters of the Heroes for Hire gang deal with the Warbound, as, excepting Shang-Chi, I can't see how any of them can stand up for even a few seconds against them.
The back-up story with Paladin is pretty uninteresting, but that's forgiveable with the rest of the issue being, well, interesting.
I actually want to see this story through. I'm impressed that Heroes for Hire managed to put out a rather interesting issue, all while under the World War Hulk tie-in editorial rules (no major plot developments that would affect WWH, etc). Even the characters stay somewhat true to themselves (I don't quite know why Black Cat stuck around, but at least that's a relatively minor issue). Good job, issue.
Crossing Midnight #9
One-sentence summary: The latest story comes to a heartening end, though with plenty of implications for future stories.
I like Crossing Midnight. I think the light colors give the artwork a perfect feel for the book, a cross among fairy tale, comic book, and oriental art. I like the dialogue, which could have been pulled out of a Ghibli film (although it's darker than any Ghibli film too). I like the stark images of violence among the rest of this, standing out all the more because of it. I like the almost relaxed story-telling, that, though it's plotted incredibly well and moves along at a fine pace, feels like you're drifting down a river watching these events happen.
Crossing Midnight is probably the best Vertigo book out there (maybe Exterminators, but both are great). I love it. As the reader gets more and more a feel for this detailed, complicated universe, the more interesting it becomes. Crossing Midnight is truly an excellent book.
I like Crossing Midnight. I think the light colors give the artwork a perfect feel for the book, a cross among fairy tale, comic book, and oriental art. I like the dialogue, which could have been pulled out of a Ghibli film (although it's darker than any Ghibli film too). I like the stark images of violence among the rest of this, standing out all the more because of it. I like the almost relaxed story-telling, that, though it's plotted incredibly well and moves along at a fine pace, feels like you're drifting down a river watching these events happen.
Crossing Midnight is probably the best Vertigo book out there (maybe Exterminators, but both are great). I love it. As the reader gets more and more a feel for this detailed, complicated universe, the more interesting it becomes. Crossing Midnight is truly an excellent book.
Wonder Woman #11
One-sentence summary: Though I like the end, the rest of this issue is the same mediocre crap that all of Amazons Attack is.
Why is Superman forcefully pulling Wonder Woman away from possibly ending the war, or at least dealing with one of the major conflicts in it? Why is Wonder Woman, the off-and-on symbol of girl power, completely fine with this? Why is this maintained as such an important storyline to the DCU, despite the fact that it's horrible?
I will say, I like the end, though I'm interested to see where it's going. The art's ok for the book; I just really, really dislike Amazons Attack.
Why is Superman forcefully pulling Wonder Woman away from possibly ending the war, or at least dealing with one of the major conflicts in it? Why is Wonder Woman, the off-and-on symbol of girl power, completely fine with this? Why is this maintained as such an important storyline to the DCU, despite the fact that it's horrible?
I will say, I like the end, though I'm interested to see where it's going. The art's ok for the book; I just really, really dislike Amazons Attack.
Teen Titans #49
One-sentence summary: Oh good, more Amazons Attack tie-ins.
There's nothing I have to say about this that I haven't said about other Amazons Attack tie-ins. It's an overly forced thing that forces the characters involved to act rather out of character. Here there's so much frantic side-switching that nothing makes sense by the end of the issue.
Blugh. I'm just so tired of these stupide tie-ins, particularly ones for series I dislike. I'll say that this has more plot to it than, say, Incredible Hulk #108, but it still is a dumb tie-in. I have more or less nothing good to say about the Amazons Attack story.
There's nothing I have to say about this that I haven't said about other Amazons Attack tie-ins. It's an overly forced thing that forces the characters involved to act rather out of character. Here there's so much frantic side-switching that nothing makes sense by the end of the issue.
Blugh. I'm just so tired of these stupide tie-ins, particularly ones for series I dislike. I'll say that this has more plot to it than, say, Incredible Hulk #108, but it still is a dumb tie-in. I have more or less nothing good to say about the Amazons Attack story.
Superman #665
One-sentence summary: Just in case you didn't know, Jimmy Olsen sure is Superman's pal!
Is it really necessary to have an origin story for Jimmy Olsen? I mean, I guess it flushes out his character some, but I think Countdown's doing a good enough job on that itself, and if you really needed more, you could've picked up the last Action Comics. This was nice, and it showed us the niche Jimmy fit early in Superman's career, but it really felt rather superfluous. I guess they decided that everyone reading Superman should also know that Jimmy Olsen sure is important in Countdown.
Tie-ins just burn me out. As this is the second Jimmy Olsen tie-in this month, I just stopped caring. I like his story in Countdown, but I really didn't need to hear about him so much. It just makes me reflect on how little sense it makes to me that Jimmy doesn't buzz Superman about his powers in the present day and ask him.
The lesson learned? If you're going to do a tie-in, make it one that's relevant and don't make one that makes your readers question the basic premise of what's going on in the main book.
Is it really necessary to have an origin story for Jimmy Olsen? I mean, I guess it flushes out his character some, but I think Countdown's doing a good enough job on that itself, and if you really needed more, you could've picked up the last Action Comics. This was nice, and it showed us the niche Jimmy fit early in Superman's career, but it really felt rather superfluous. I guess they decided that everyone reading Superman should also know that Jimmy Olsen sure is important in Countdown.
Tie-ins just burn me out. As this is the second Jimmy Olsen tie-in this month, I just stopped caring. I like his story in Countdown, but I really didn't need to hear about him so much. It just makes me reflect on how little sense it makes to me that Jimmy doesn't buzz Superman about his powers in the present day and ask him.
The lesson learned? If you're going to do a tie-in, make it one that's relevant and don't make one that makes your readers question the basic premise of what's going on in the main book.
Supergirl and the Legion of Super Heroes #32
One-sentence summary: As this new storyline gets started, we see more into the background of Lightning Lad and his community, complete with suspenseful ending that genuinely leaves me looking forward to the next issue.
I'm pretty neutral, currently, on the Legion. They're a neat concept, and sometimes they're pretty cool, but I haven't read anything yet that currently just blows me away. I liked the interactions between everyone here. I'm looking forward to hearing the tie-ins between the cult and the current story, and the issue just generally felt solid.
The art fits the characters well, and the storyline seems to be progressing well. I hope we hear more from the other teams of Legionnaires sent out, but if we don't so be it. Overall, this was a good issue. The Legion characters acted like themselves, it seemed, and their interactions were definitely a big plus for me.
I'm pretty neutral, currently, on the Legion. They're a neat concept, and sometimes they're pretty cool, but I haven't read anything yet that currently just blows me away. I liked the interactions between everyone here. I'm looking forward to hearing the tie-ins between the cult and the current story, and the issue just generally felt solid.
The art fits the characters well, and the storyline seems to be progressing well. I hope we hear more from the other teams of Legionnaires sent out, but if we don't so be it. Overall, this was a good issue. The Legion characters acted like themselves, it seemed, and their interactions were definitely a big plus for me.
JSA Classified #28
One-sentence summary: Hot on the heels of the pretty good storylines about Doctor Midnight and Wildcat we get this mediocre story about Jakeem Thunder, a rather hokey hero who should've been allowed to stay dead.
I guess I just think the character of Jakeem Thunder is sort of dumb. I mean, the idea worked alright in the old humorous, campy comics of the 40s, but if you're going to be putting a character in a modern day comic, there really should be more to them than "has a magic genie." I know that now it's a 5th dimensional creature or whatever, but it's still a freaking genie as far as I'm concerned. The issue's big moral lesson seems to me to indicate that, in actuality, he's useless. In case you're curious, the twist (I'll ruin it for you because this isn't a great issue) is that for everything the genie does an equal and opposite thing happens elsewhere, so that for every person he makes a home for, someone loses theirs. This would indicate, to me at least, that in every fight every blow he lands is just a super-powered punch someone else is going to have to deal with, or something similar. Can he only wish for things with relatively no consequence now?
I just don't like this character, really, so seeing a comic that includes him and Green Lantern acting like Batman all of the sudden doesn't do much for me.
I guess I just think the character of Jakeem Thunder is sort of dumb. I mean, the idea worked alright in the old humorous, campy comics of the 40s, but if you're going to be putting a character in a modern day comic, there really should be more to them than "has a magic genie." I know that now it's a 5th dimensional creature or whatever, but it's still a freaking genie as far as I'm concerned. The issue's big moral lesson seems to me to indicate that, in actuality, he's useless. In case you're curious, the twist (I'll ruin it for you because this isn't a great issue) is that for everything the genie does an equal and opposite thing happens elsewhere, so that for every person he makes a home for, someone loses theirs. This would indicate, to me at least, that in every fight every blow he lands is just a super-powered punch someone else is going to have to deal with, or something similar. Can he only wish for things with relatively no consequence now?
I just don't like this character, really, so seeing a comic that includes him and Green Lantern acting like Batman all of the sudden doesn't do much for me.
Hawkgirl #66
One-sentence summary: So, Hawkgirl's over.
I never got into this title. Some issues were just bad, and I just didn't follow this last arc. I thought the Hawk-people were now aliens, or something? But I guess they're resurrected Egyptians cursed by an ancient sorcerer? Eh, whatever. The big point here is that the issue had a fair amount of action and seemed to wrap the storyline up nicely, leaving thing's open for a new Hawkman book if it's ever needed.
I can't give a very great review to this issue simply due to never getting into the series. Sorry, all you die-hard Hawkgirl fan.
I never got into this title. Some issues were just bad, and I just didn't follow this last arc. I thought the Hawk-people were now aliens, or something? But I guess they're resurrected Egyptians cursed by an ancient sorcerer? Eh, whatever. The big point here is that the issue had a fair amount of action and seemed to wrap the storyline up nicely, leaving thing's open for a new Hawkman book if it's ever needed.
I can't give a very great review to this issue simply due to never getting into the series. Sorry, all you die-hard Hawkgirl fan.
Green Lantern Corps #14
One-sentence summary: More Sinestro Corps goodness as this epic-sized callback to an old Alan Moore story continues.
I loved the Sinestro Corps special. Loved. That the two last installments of the saga haven't created the same enthusiasm in me doesn't really speak badly of them, it just shows how good the start was. All the same, this is a good issue, with action and some plot development, as well as an amazing end that has me hyped up for the next issue. I think the writing team is doing a good job of revving things back from the initial special in order to build some tension and suspense, and I think it's going to pay off before the summer's over.
This issue showed a bit of Sinestro outside the action, which was nice, as well as more of the Green Lanterns themselves regrouping and preparing for the retaliation. They've collected themselves now and are striking back. Awesome.
This is just a good series. I was liking Green Lantern Corps before the Sinestro Corps saga started, and now it's just that much more incentive to read. Great job to Geoff Johns and Dave Gibbons on their work here.
I loved the Sinestro Corps special. Loved. That the two last installments of the saga haven't created the same enthusiasm in me doesn't really speak badly of them, it just shows how good the start was. All the same, this is a good issue, with action and some plot development, as well as an amazing end that has me hyped up for the next issue. I think the writing team is doing a good job of revving things back from the initial special in order to build some tension and suspense, and I think it's going to pay off before the summer's over.
This issue showed a bit of Sinestro outside the action, which was nice, as well as more of the Green Lanterns themselves regrouping and preparing for the retaliation. They've collected themselves now and are striking back. Awesome.
This is just a good series. I was liking Green Lantern Corps before the Sinestro Corps saga started, and now it's just that much more incentive to read. Great job to Geoff Johns and Dave Gibbons on their work here.
Blue Beetle #17
One-sentence summary: Though a one-shot issue, this gives us a pretty good story, a bit of good dialogue, and a nice look at the new Beetle developing as a hero.
What can I say? This is a title that's grown on me. I used to be negative about it, but whether my outlook changed or the book just started get better writing, I'm much more in favor of it now than before. The action is fun, the dialogue is great, and the subplots are numerous but handled well. This one's no exception, though it slacks off (somewhat) on the subplots and focuses mostly on Jamie becoming a more experienced hero, dealing with some failure all the while.
It's nice to see a fun book like this deal well with a darker issue of heroism without losing its tone. There are still jokes being made, there are still things to make you smile, but it also deals succinctly with the consequences, and proper reactions, to failure. Good stuff.
I liked this issue. The art was clean, the writing good, and generally a good issue for the growth of the new Blue Beetle.
What can I say? This is a title that's grown on me. I used to be negative about it, but whether my outlook changed or the book just started get better writing, I'm much more in favor of it now than before. The action is fun, the dialogue is great, and the subplots are numerous but handled well. This one's no exception, though it slacks off (somewhat) on the subplots and focuses mostly on Jamie becoming a more experienced hero, dealing with some failure all the while.
It's nice to see a fun book like this deal well with a darker issue of heroism without losing its tone. There are still jokes being made, there are still things to make you smile, but it also deals succinctly with the consequences, and proper reactions, to failure. Good stuff.
I liked this issue. The art was clean, the writing good, and generally a good issue for the growth of the new Blue Beetle.
Green Arrow: Year One #2 (of 6)
One-sentence summary: The revamped origin of Green Arrow continues, this issue giving a more complete portrait of his months spent on the deserted tropical island, involving more intrigue than in prior origins.
First off, the covers on these have been good so far. I have a soft spot for covers that decide to go against the grain (but without overdoing things, ala Marvel Zombies), and these definitely qualify. But, that's a pretty unimportant thing, so I won't dwell on it.
The story we're given is good in this. I mean, it's pretty standard fare of the Green Arrow origin, but the writing is well-done, and it's definitely nice they put more into the island and the going-ons of it. The artwork was good for what this demands.
I do like this book. Due to the 2-week shipping schedule it moves along at a brisk pace, which is good as this is a story we mostly know. It's still a pretty enjoyable read.
First off, the covers on these have been good so far. I have a soft spot for covers that decide to go against the grain (but without overdoing things, ala Marvel Zombies), and these definitely qualify. But, that's a pretty unimportant thing, so I won't dwell on it.
The story we're given is good in this. I mean, it's pretty standard fare of the Green Arrow origin, but the writing is well-done, and it's definitely nice they put more into the island and the going-ons of it. The artwork was good for what this demands.
I do like this book. Due to the 2-week shipping schedule it moves along at a brisk pace, which is good as this is a story we mostly know. It's still a pretty enjoyable read.
Friday, July 27, 2007
All-Star Batman & Robin #6
One-sentence summary: Frank Miller gives us another installment of his overly grim-and-gritty Batman storyline.
I'm not really a huge fan of this book. I know Frank Miller is single-handedly responsible for Batman's regeneration as a franchise, as well as breaking censorship boundaries for years. I like Frank Miller, generally. I just think this book is, well, too Frank Miller-y, if that makes sense. The dialogue is just heavy-handed, even for Miller.
"Crazy kid. She'll get herself KILLED , here. She'll get herself KILLED."
And there's a dozen lines like that.
Jim Lee does a good job with the art; I'm just not into this book. Maybe I'm alone on this one, but I'm just not interested in this book. Sorry Frank Miller fans.
Also, as a very rare aside, I'm probably a bit bitter towards Frank Miller for doing the Spirit movie, as I think he's all wrong for that character.
I'm not really a huge fan of this book. I know Frank Miller is single-handedly responsible for Batman's regeneration as a franchise, as well as breaking censorship boundaries for years. I like Frank Miller, generally. I just think this book is, well, too Frank Miller-y, if that makes sense. The dialogue is just heavy-handed, even for Miller.
"Crazy kid. She'll get herself KILLED , here. She'll get herself KILLED."
And there's a dozen lines like that.
Jim Lee does a good job with the art; I'm just not into this book. Maybe I'm alone on this one, but I'm just not interested in this book. Sorry Frank Miller fans.
Also, as a very rare aside, I'm probably a bit bitter towards Frank Miller for doing the Spirit movie, as I think he's all wrong for that character.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Incredible Hulk #108
One-sentence summary: Hey, great, maybe some plot will develop here since, you know, it's the Hulk's own title...nope, no such luck.
Oh goodie, another pointless World War Hulk tie-in. This one's even more irritating to me because it's actually in Hulk's comic...you'd think they'd allow something to happen, but, no, nothing.
Did you know: Rick Jones is Hulk's friend. Oh, wait, even if you've never read the Hulk outside of World War Hulk you know how this ends. Woo.
Did you know: Miek is also a friend of Hulk. Also, apparently there's some other giant bug with him? That one I didn't know, but it doesn't seem at all important.
I'm tired of World War Hulk. I'm more tired of pointless tie-ins that add nothing to it. Annhilation has the right idea on how to do a huge arc. I guess World War Hulk's successful, though, so we get to look forward to plenty more similar events in the future. Woo.
Oh goodie, another pointless World War Hulk tie-in. This one's even more irritating to me because it's actually in Hulk's comic...you'd think they'd allow something to happen, but, no, nothing.
Did you know: Rick Jones is Hulk's friend. Oh, wait, even if you've never read the Hulk outside of World War Hulk you know how this ends. Woo.
Did you know: Miek is also a friend of Hulk. Also, apparently there's some other giant bug with him? That one I didn't know, but it doesn't seem at all important.
I'm tired of World War Hulk. I'm more tired of pointless tie-ins that add nothing to it. Annhilation has the right idea on how to do a huge arc. I guess World War Hulk's successful, though, so we get to look forward to plenty more similar events in the future. Woo.
Fantastic Five #2 (of 5)
One-sentence summary: Defalco brings another fun MC2 mini-series on the heels of Avengers Next, this issue providing more Doom-sponsored destruction as well as a good ending page of the Thing.
I don't know exactly why I like the MC2 stuff as much as I do. There were periods of time where I enjoyed Spider-Girl without liking the current Spider-Man run. Maybe because Spider-Girl still tries for the fun style of the '60s, with several one-shot issues with a running subplot leading to a brief story arc (or at least it did -- I know it's a bit more contemporarily paced now). Maybe it's because, in general, it just does a good job of capturing an older feel for the comics which wouldn't be good if it were all that were available, but as a selection next to modern comics, offers a pleasant dose of fun. Maybe it's because usually the stories are pretty solid, superior in some ways to their models from the old days.
Long story short, this is pretty fun. It's fun to see characters who are new to us interacting, figuring out who they are as things progress. And, like most the MC2 stuff, it's a basic but good story: Dr. Doom has escaped, supercharged with the Power Cosmic, and is currently out to conquer the world, but wants to rub it in the faces of the Fantastic Five first. I particularly like the line, as he chases after Johnny Storm, "No! No! You mustn't spoil my grand entrance!" Good stuff.
I don't know exactly why I like the MC2 stuff as much as I do. There were periods of time where I enjoyed Spider-Girl without liking the current Spider-Man run. Maybe because Spider-Girl still tries for the fun style of the '60s, with several one-shot issues with a running subplot leading to a brief story arc (or at least it did -- I know it's a bit more contemporarily paced now). Maybe it's because, in general, it just does a good job of capturing an older feel for the comics which wouldn't be good if it were all that were available, but as a selection next to modern comics, offers a pleasant dose of fun. Maybe it's because usually the stories are pretty solid, superior in some ways to their models from the old days.
Long story short, this is pretty fun. It's fun to see characters who are new to us interacting, figuring out who they are as things progress. And, like most the MC2 stuff, it's a basic but good story: Dr. Doom has escaped, supercharged with the Power Cosmic, and is currently out to conquer the world, but wants to rub it in the faces of the Fantastic Five first. I particularly like the line, as he chases after Johnny Storm, "No! No! You mustn't spoil my grand entrance!" Good stuff.
Cable Deadpool #43
One-sentence summary: Cable/Deadpool is back to being funny with this installment bringing back wave after wave of really immature jokes, as well as a character from Deadpool's past.
This was my favorite issue of Cable/Deadpool in a little while. We're back to Bob from Hydra, Deadpool, Agent X, and even Weasel. I love the fact that they use Deadpool's team-crush on the X-Men as a motivating factor. And the immature sex jokes? I loved each and every one of them (all night long?).
This was a good issue. The art worked for what you have, the end was hilarious, the dialogue was back to being moderately sparkling, and, in general, I haven't enjoyed an issue of this as much in a little while. I think one of my favorite moments is at the very front where Bob can't figure out how to correctly break the fourth wall -- just awesome.
This was my favorite issue of Cable/Deadpool in a little while. We're back to Bob from Hydra, Deadpool, Agent X, and even Weasel. I love the fact that they use Deadpool's team-crush on the X-Men as a motivating factor. And the immature sex jokes? I loved each and every one of them (all night long?).
This was a good issue. The art worked for what you have, the end was hilarious, the dialogue was back to being moderately sparkling, and, in general, I haven't enjoyed an issue of this as much in a little while. I think one of my favorite moments is at the very front where Bob can't figure out how to correctly break the fourth wall -- just awesome.
Black Panther #29
One-sentence summary: More Marvel Zombies in this tie-in that I can't help but feel was an effort to boost sales for what was a decent title, though it really isn't too bad.
I've got some qualms with how they're doing this tie-in with Marvel Zombies. For one thing, it's just barely Black Panther anymore; it's Black Panther, and Storm, and half the Fantastic Four, and also Marvel Zombies. As is, I don't think T'Challa gets a full half of the comic anymore, which is a shame because he's a good character if done correctly. I also don't like that it's four-issues. It was sort of fun in the first issue, since it was different, but I was hoping for it to wind down in the second issue, not just-barley get half-through it all.
The other big thing is that it's sort of missing the point of Marvel Zombies. Part of what made the original book such a big hit was that it was dark, and it ended darkly, but it was hilarious too. Now the humor's gone and you're left with some plain-out dark images (Spider-Man taunting a woman and child before devouring them), really bad dialogue from the zombies themselves, and you know it's going to have a, at least somewhat, happy ending. It's like it's taken everything that made Marvel Zombies sell so well and remove as much as possible without actually removing the zombie aspect.
I'm looking forward to them getting back and T'Challa getting back to Wakanda and dealing with problems there. I'd much rather have that then have him wandering through dimensions fighting zombies. I'm sure that's not what the numbers support, though.
I've got some qualms with how they're doing this tie-in with Marvel Zombies. For one thing, it's just barely Black Panther anymore; it's Black Panther, and Storm, and half the Fantastic Four, and also Marvel Zombies. As is, I don't think T'Challa gets a full half of the comic anymore, which is a shame because he's a good character if done correctly. I also don't like that it's four-issues. It was sort of fun in the first issue, since it was different, but I was hoping for it to wind down in the second issue, not just-barley get half-through it all.
The other big thing is that it's sort of missing the point of Marvel Zombies. Part of what made the original book such a big hit was that it was dark, and it ended darkly, but it was hilarious too. Now the humor's gone and you're left with some plain-out dark images (Spider-Man taunting a woman and child before devouring them), really bad dialogue from the zombies themselves, and you know it's going to have a, at least somewhat, happy ending. It's like it's taken everything that made Marvel Zombies sell so well and remove as much as possible without actually removing the zombie aspect.
I'm looking forward to them getting back and T'Challa getting back to Wakanda and dealing with problems there. I'd much rather have that then have him wandering through dimensions fighting zombies. I'm sure that's not what the numbers support, though.
Batman #666
One-sentence summary: Wait, what?
So this issue breaks out of the story in order to visit a possible future in which Damian Wayne has become the Batman. It's not a bad story in all considerations, I just didn't like how they took a break from the story in order to have this one-shot just because of the issue number (and they really forced the demonic stuff into it to make that justification). I think this was a very oddly placed filler, and a very odd filler at that, so I'm not sure what to think of it.
I like Morrison's writing, and I did like the story in this issue, it just seemed out-of-place. It's good for a one-shot, but, again, just awkward in placement.
So this issue breaks out of the story in order to visit a possible future in which Damian Wayne has become the Batman. It's not a bad story in all considerations, I just didn't like how they took a break from the story in order to have this one-shot just because of the issue number (and they really forced the demonic stuff into it to make that justification). I think this was a very oddly placed filler, and a very odd filler at that, so I'm not sure what to think of it.
I like Morrison's writing, and I did like the story in this issue, it just seemed out-of-place. It's good for a one-shot, but, again, just awkward in placement.
Amazing Spider-Man #542
One-sentence summary: Peter seems to have taken a page from Penance's book and broods and threatens through this dark Spider-Man story.
So, thus far we have Spidey tracking down the Kingpin because Aunt May was shot on his orders, alright? This issue is the showdown between Spidey (or, rather, Peter Parker) and Kingpin, and it goes, in what was a pleasant surprise to me, exactly as makes sense. During the fight, Peter guarantees that he will kill the Kingpin, just not yet.
I don't like this storyline. Spidey's always been emotional, but never this angry. He could've just left the fight as is and not guaranteed the death (which I'm sure he won't go through on for some reason, but still). Why now? He's never struck me as a selfish character, really -- whiny, sure, but never selfish -- so why after seeing loads of other innocents die because of Fisk does this one make him so much angrier than the others and pushes him to a level he's never approached before? I don't know, really, but I'm not sure I agree with it. It doesn't feel right for Peter's character.
This was an alright issue, overall. The art's fine, I just don't like having such a dark Spider-man comic, and so consitently. I realize they need to be dark sometimes, but it's been this way for awhile now, and I just want a fun Spidey comic again. Hopefully in the upcoming stories we see some return of the character of Spidey.
So, thus far we have Spidey tracking down the Kingpin because Aunt May was shot on his orders, alright? This issue is the showdown between Spidey (or, rather, Peter Parker) and Kingpin, and it goes, in what was a pleasant surprise to me, exactly as makes sense. During the fight, Peter guarantees that he will kill the Kingpin, just not yet.
I don't like this storyline. Spidey's always been emotional, but never this angry. He could've just left the fight as is and not guaranteed the death (which I'm sure he won't go through on for some reason, but still). Why now? He's never struck me as a selfish character, really -- whiny, sure, but never selfish -- so why after seeing loads of other innocents die because of Fisk does this one make him so much angrier than the others and pushes him to a level he's never approached before? I don't know, really, but I'm not sure I agree with it. It doesn't feel right for Peter's character.
This was an alright issue, overall. The art's fine, I just don't like having such a dark Spider-man comic, and so consitently. I realize they need to be dark sometimes, but it's been this way for awhile now, and I just want a fun Spidey comic again. Hopefully in the upcoming stories we see some return of the character of Spidey.
Annhilation Conquest -- Starlord #1 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: Beginning with the recent history of Starlord, this book lays out the foundation for the Dirty Dozen-esque sci-fi story set in the Annhilation arc.
I do have a soft spot for the Annhilation stuff, so that should be kept in mind. I liked this issue. I thought the art was a bit weird for the setting, but it wasn't bad, and so far it's worked alright. The story is pretty basic, but that's not a bad thing, really, just means it won't be breaking literary ground (which I wasn't expecting anyway). The dialogue's been fun so far, and the characters are certainly interesting. I'm not sure what to think of the return of Rocket Raccoon, but I'm pretty sure I'm happy about it. In general, this looks like it will be the fun Annhilation side-story, but that could rapidly change -- we'll just have to wait to see what they have in store for the characters.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this story. With fun dialogue, interesting characters, a solid story (so far), and a setting I've thoroughly enjoyed over the last year, I'm looking forward to the rest of the Starlord series.
I do have a soft spot for the Annhilation stuff, so that should be kept in mind. I liked this issue. I thought the art was a bit weird for the setting, but it wasn't bad, and so far it's worked alright. The story is pretty basic, but that's not a bad thing, really, just means it won't be breaking literary ground (which I wasn't expecting anyway). The dialogue's been fun so far, and the characters are certainly interesting. I'm not sure what to think of the return of Rocket Raccoon, but I'm pretty sure I'm happy about it. In general, this looks like it will be the fun Annhilation side-story, but that could rapidly change -- we'll just have to wait to see what they have in store for the characters.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this story. With fun dialogue, interesting characters, a solid story (so far), and a setting I've thoroughly enjoyed over the last year, I'm looking forward to the rest of the Starlord series.
Mighty Avengers #4
One-sentence summary: Bendis and Cho deliver an issue of high quality, with plenty of story, fighting, and some beautiful art.
I like this series, and I liked this issue maybe the best of any so far. The art was fantastic (who knew Cho could draw robots so well?), and the story didn't just progress, but had multiple major events happen. The shot of Sentry's wife...that was so well done. I really hope it has a major point. I really like how Bendis is making the Avengers global again; by that I mean that he's having them face problems which are affecting everyone, and not just, say, targeted specifically at them. Having Ultron, with conviction, threaten the entire world? Pretty cool.
Cho really does just a fantastic job. I'm in love with the backup Iron Man suit. Also, Ares is awesome. As he was brought on because he was a Wolverine-Thor, it's funny that I like him better than either of those characters. His fight choreography at the end of the issue was probably some of the best I've seen in quite awhile (certainly up there with Karate Kid and Batman's flying martial arts fight from Brave and the Bold last week). Just awesome.
I thought the though bubbles were briefly overused at the beginning, but only for about a page or two, then it slacked off on them. Not a horrible complaint, really, but I felt I shouldn't just call the book perfect, because it's not. Still, though, the fact I had to go to that for a complaint should tell you how good this issue is.
I like this series, and I liked this issue maybe the best of any so far. The art was fantastic (who knew Cho could draw robots so well?), and the story didn't just progress, but had multiple major events happen. The shot of Sentry's wife...that was so well done. I really hope it has a major point. I really like how Bendis is making the Avengers global again; by that I mean that he's having them face problems which are affecting everyone, and not just, say, targeted specifically at them. Having Ultron, with conviction, threaten the entire world? Pretty cool.
Cho really does just a fantastic job. I'm in love with the backup Iron Man suit. Also, Ares is awesome. As he was brought on because he was a Wolverine-Thor, it's funny that I like him better than either of those characters. His fight choreography at the end of the issue was probably some of the best I've seen in quite awhile (certainly up there with Karate Kid and Batman's flying martial arts fight from Brave and the Bold last week). Just awesome.
I thought the though bubbles were briefly overused at the beginning, but only for about a page or two, then it slacked off on them. Not a horrible complaint, really, but I felt I shouldn't just call the book perfect, because it's not. Still, though, the fact I had to go to that for a complaint should tell you how good this issue is.
Countdown #40
One-sentence summary: More storylines barely progress, but, in total, a fair amount of plot occurs.
See, this is what happens every time I read an issue of Countdown: I get to the last page and my brain thinks "Surely this can't be the last page already!" It's not even that there's not enough going on; it's just that every individual storyline only progresses a teeny bit each issue, but the actual progression is decent.
Anywho, this issue. Nothing particularly bugged me in it, and I was glad to see the newcomer to the Rogues story. Also, the fight scene with Donna and Jason was fun, and it was nice to see some solid action in this. Zatanna was a nice surprise -- I like her, so I hope she's around for a couple more issues, hah. Also, it was nice to finally see Apokolips, since it's supposed to be the focal point of all this.
Pretty decent issue, really. Things are starting to fall into place well.
See, this is what happens every time I read an issue of Countdown: I get to the last page and my brain thinks "Surely this can't be the last page already!" It's not even that there's not enough going on; it's just that every individual storyline only progresses a teeny bit each issue, but the actual progression is decent.
Anywho, this issue. Nothing particularly bugged me in it, and I was glad to see the newcomer to the Rogues story. Also, the fight scene with Donna and Jason was fun, and it was nice to see some solid action in this. Zatanna was a nice surprise -- I like her, so I hope she's around for a couple more issues, hah. Also, it was nice to finally see Apokolips, since it's supposed to be the focal point of all this.
Pretty decent issue, really. Things are starting to fall into place well.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Legion of Monsters -- Morbius
One-sentence summary: This final (I think) issue from the series of one-shots gives us decent art, an interesting take on Morbius, and another few pages of scheming Dracula.
This was alright. The art was pretty decent throughout, but nothing spectacular. I can't say I really enjoyed either story; they weren't particularly bad, I just didn't enjoy them.
Again, small reviews generally indicate my apathy towards a comic. Pretty indicative here.
This was alright. The art was pretty decent throughout, but nothing spectacular. I can't say I really enjoyed either story; they weren't particularly bad, I just didn't enjoy them.
Again, small reviews generally indicate my apathy towards a comic. Pretty indicative here.
Mystic Arcana -- Black Knight
One-sentence summary: Marvel's magic mini-series continues in its second part with a generally interesting story involving rarely seen characters.
I wasn't a huge fan of the Ilyana issue in June, but I really enjoyed this. I thought the art for the Black Knight portion was great, and what was used in the Ian McNee subplot was fitting. His glasses were the highpoint of the art for me, just due to the contrast they presented with clear-cut, basic images against the almost-blurred reality around them.
The storylines were interesting. I liked reading the Black Knight background -- I thought the * call back they used to reference an old Tomb of Dracula was good, almost like a reminder you're reading a comic book, or at least one that's a part of the Marvel universe. I liked how with the Ian McNee subplot you have things not directly tie in with the Black Knight story, but you do have thematic connections.
I'm intrigued to see if this is going to last past just the four issues, or if not. I think it's kind of cool, but I've never been a good judge of the best-selling comics. This is pretty interesting, but I'd probably recommend waiting on the trade paperback for it, just due to the fact most the issue is background stories.
I wasn't a huge fan of the Ilyana issue in June, but I really enjoyed this. I thought the art for the Black Knight portion was great, and what was used in the Ian McNee subplot was fitting. His glasses were the highpoint of the art for me, just due to the contrast they presented with clear-cut, basic images against the almost-blurred reality around them.
The storylines were interesting. I liked reading the Black Knight background -- I thought the * call back they used to reference an old Tomb of Dracula was good, almost like a reminder you're reading a comic book, or at least one that's a part of the Marvel universe. I liked how with the Ian McNee subplot you have things not directly tie in with the Black Knight story, but you do have thematic connections.
I'm intrigued to see if this is going to last past just the four issues, or if not. I think it's kind of cool, but I've never been a good judge of the best-selling comics. This is pretty interesting, but I'd probably recommend waiting on the trade paperback for it, just due to the fact most the issue is background stories.
Shazam! -- The Monster Society of Evil #4 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: How can Jeff Smith be so good?
I won't lie about it; I love Jeff Smith. I loved Bone since I was a kid and it was relatively new, and it's one of the few comics I'm pretty certain I have every issue of, even if a couple here and there aren't the original printings (that weird time period with wizard, you know), and it's definitely the only comic where I own the individual comics but have still bought all the hardcover trades. It's a beautiful story beautifully told. But this isn't about Bone; this is Shazam! And, as a sidenote, kudos to DC for giving Jeff Smith pretty much free rein on this; it shows, and it works.
Captain Marvel is the perfect character for Jeff Smith to do work on; someone who's a classic superhero, but possesses all the innocence of a child because, well, he is one. Reducing his age even further, or at least his height, Smith's created a version of Billy Batson who's being overlooked by society in every way, the only adult in the world who notices him (initially) the vile Dr. Sivana. Size plays a vital (almost said big) role in the storytelling in Shazam, and never is that made clearer than in the last issue.
This is the final chapter of the Shazam series, but I highly recommend the trade on this one, or just buying the issues. Seeing Smith's work with color is somehow even better than I'd think; he's just an artist who has perfected his style and can seemingly do anything with it. The final fight scene is, well, ridiculous and remarkable and reality-ripping. He has the right ingredients in it to make a good, anyone-can-enjoy-this superhero story. Are there explanations given? Sure, for some things; but they're not always good ones, and that's part of it. I don't need to know where Mr. Mind comes from, or how he built these machines, or anything like that -- it's happened, and now Billy Batson has to deal with it. Jeff Smith knows the right mixture of explanation and ignorance that makes it a magical superhero tale (literally, I mean). Simply fantastic.
This book's highly recommended to pretty much anyone. There's a lot to say about it, but suffice to say that it's very, very good.
I won't lie about it; I love Jeff Smith. I loved Bone since I was a kid and it was relatively new, and it's one of the few comics I'm pretty certain I have every issue of, even if a couple here and there aren't the original printings (that weird time period with wizard, you know), and it's definitely the only comic where I own the individual comics but have still bought all the hardcover trades. It's a beautiful story beautifully told. But this isn't about Bone; this is Shazam! And, as a sidenote, kudos to DC for giving Jeff Smith pretty much free rein on this; it shows, and it works.
Captain Marvel is the perfect character for Jeff Smith to do work on; someone who's a classic superhero, but possesses all the innocence of a child because, well, he is one. Reducing his age even further, or at least his height, Smith's created a version of Billy Batson who's being overlooked by society in every way, the only adult in the world who notices him (initially) the vile Dr. Sivana. Size plays a vital (almost said big) role in the storytelling in Shazam, and never is that made clearer than in the last issue.
This is the final chapter of the Shazam series, but I highly recommend the trade on this one, or just buying the issues. Seeing Smith's work with color is somehow even better than I'd think; he's just an artist who has perfected his style and can seemingly do anything with it. The final fight scene is, well, ridiculous and remarkable and reality-ripping. He has the right ingredients in it to make a good, anyone-can-enjoy-this superhero story. Are there explanations given? Sure, for some things; but they're not always good ones, and that's part of it. I don't need to know where Mr. Mind comes from, or how he built these machines, or anything like that -- it's happened, and now Billy Batson has to deal with it. Jeff Smith knows the right mixture of explanation and ignorance that makes it a magical superhero tale (literally, I mean). Simply fantastic.
This book's highly recommended to pretty much anyone. There's a lot to say about it, but suffice to say that it's very, very good.
Monday, July 23, 2007
The Goon #19
One-sentence summary: Eric Powell's long-awaited return to the Goon is slightly, well, disappointing, but it's still a very good comic on its own.
I love the Goon. Not too many non-Marvel/DC comics are going to get reviews here, but the Goon will always have a space here because, all the way back to the Albatross print and before, it has been a great comic. It continues to be good, too, but this issue should just not be approached with the level of excitement I had. In my own mind, Powell was hitting a great stride around Goon #17 and #18, involving a large cast of characters, each one fleshed out very well. Here we open up with a random rant about Oprah, then a sort of catch-up issue to get reacquainted with the world of The Goon.
I'm moderately certain the break in the Goon was to allow Powell to work on a Goon graphic novel, exploring his past, particularly Chinatown. I'm really, really looking forward to this, along with all future issues of the Goon. I heartily recommend all of the Goon, even if this issue is a bit lackluster compared to the shining awesomeness that is the norm.
I love the Goon. Not too many non-Marvel/DC comics are going to get reviews here, but the Goon will always have a space here because, all the way back to the Albatross print and before, it has been a great comic. It continues to be good, too, but this issue should just not be approached with the level of excitement I had. In my own mind, Powell was hitting a great stride around Goon #17 and #18, involving a large cast of characters, each one fleshed out very well. Here we open up with a random rant about Oprah, then a sort of catch-up issue to get reacquainted with the world of The Goon.
I'm moderately certain the break in the Goon was to allow Powell to work on a Goon graphic novel, exploring his past, particularly Chinatown. I'm really, really looking forward to this, along with all future issues of the Goon. I heartily recommend all of the Goon, even if this issue is a bit lackluster compared to the shining awesomeness that is the norm.
Superman Batman #38
One-sentence summary: The newest issue of Superman/Batman offers little in form of collaboration between the title heroes, but it does have some intriguing plot developments on the villain side.
While not a ground-breaking book by any stretch, the first scene with Desaad is awesome, and the rest is alright. The art works in context and I'm looking forward to seeing where this plot goes. I hope for some more actual interaction between the main heroes, but we'll see. Even now it's not bad, just not great either.
While not a ground-breaking book by any stretch, the first scene with Desaad is awesome, and the rest is alright. The art works in context and I'm looking forward to seeing where this plot goes. I hope for some more actual interaction between the main heroes, but we'll see. Even now it's not bad, just not great either.
World War Hulk: Frontline #2 (of 6)
One-sentence summary: Probably the best of the World War Hulk titles, this is a rather bland issue of Frontline.
I just wasn't all too enthused with this. I liked Civil War: Frontline, and I'm looking forward to the directions WWH: Frontline will take, I just didn't think very much happened in this issue. I might be forgetting something major, but I don't think so. Of course, this could be due to editorial constraints from not much having happened in World War Hulk.
I'm looking forward to where this goes, but not because of this issue, but because of my trust in the Frontline titles.
I just wasn't all too enthused with this. I liked Civil War: Frontline, and I'm looking forward to the directions WWH: Frontline will take, I just didn't think very much happened in this issue. I might be forgetting something major, but I don't think so. Of course, this could be due to editorial constraints from not much having happened in World War Hulk.
I'm looking forward to where this goes, but not because of this issue, but because of my trust in the Frontline titles.
Ultimate Spider-Man #111
One-sentence summary: A cool departure from the normal format, we have Peter explaining everything to Aunt May one one-half the page while his day goes by on the other half of the page without dialogue, and the whole issue is generally well-done and a good wrap-up of this mega-saga.
Ultimate Spider-Man again doesn't disappoint, giving us a very different issue that succeeds on all levels as a touching moment between Peter and the aunt that raised him explaining the who and why he is, as well as why he will continue to be who he is. This is the last issue for Mark Bagley, who's done a great job, but Stuart Immonen will do a good job too. Bendis continues to do a great job on this title, and this issue's no exception.
This was a pretty good issue of Ultimate Spider-Man. I loved the format, just due to it being novel. The issue served well to segue to the next portion of Ultimate Spider-Man without being too tied to what has already occurred; a new reader wouldn't be too lost in this. This was a good issue of a good comic.
Ultimate Spider-Man again doesn't disappoint, giving us a very different issue that succeeds on all levels as a touching moment between Peter and the aunt that raised him explaining the who and why he is, as well as why he will continue to be who he is. This is the last issue for Mark Bagley, who's done a great job, but Stuart Immonen will do a good job too. Bendis continues to do a great job on this title, and this issue's no exception.
This was a pretty good issue of Ultimate Spider-Man. I loved the format, just due to it being novel. The issue served well to segue to the next portion of Ultimate Spider-Man without being too tied to what has already occurred; a new reader wouldn't be too lost in this. This was a good issue of a good comic.
Super-Villain Team-up: MODOK's 11 #1 (of 5)
One-sentence summary: The verbose title hides what might shape up to be a fun team-up of B- and C-list villains in a villain's variation of Ocean's 11.
MODOK's 11 contains much of what can be expected by the title; MODOK is gathering fairly forgotten villains (it was weird to see the Spot in two different titles in a week, particularly after what can only be years of inactivity) in order to pull off some sort of heist, more of which will be explained in the next issue. This issue consists mostly of the gathering of the villains, which in it of itself was pretty amusing.
Possibly by borrowing directly from Ocean's 11, this has been pretty well-progressed so far, with a good introduction to most of the characters without spending too much page-space on them. It also contained a flashback sequence in order to illustrate that, yes, MODOK is truly evil, and we shouldn't forget that. All in all, pretty good, and I'll be looking forward to the next installment; I'd recommend this pretty easily.
MODOK's 11 contains much of what can be expected by the title; MODOK is gathering fairly forgotten villains (it was weird to see the Spot in two different titles in a week, particularly after what can only be years of inactivity) in order to pull off some sort of heist, more of which will be explained in the next issue. This issue consists mostly of the gathering of the villains, which in it of itself was pretty amusing.
Possibly by borrowing directly from Ocean's 11, this has been pretty well-progressed so far, with a good introduction to most of the characters without spending too much page-space on them. It also contained a flashback sequence in order to illustrate that, yes, MODOK is truly evil, and we shouldn't forget that. All in all, pretty good, and I'll be looking forward to the next installment; I'd recommend this pretty easily.
New X-Men #40
One-sentence summary: I should really remember more of what happened, but I don't; I think it was ok?
Alright, I'll fess up: I don't really care about New X-Men. I really don't feel the artwork, I got into it too late to like any character but Santo (and occasionally Dust), and I barely remember half the characters. Combine that with this latest storyline about Ilyana Rasputin, a character I only remember as a child for having died, and I really don't know what's going on in the plot. They're in limbo? It looks like Hell, but I think it's limbo (they keep saying that). A character who's a devil, but not the devil or anything, has huge amounts of power and they need to beat him, so they need a soulsword, which can only be made from yakity smakity, blah blah blah. It's just such a convoluted storyline where things are happening all over the place, with characters dying and being brought back from the dead like nothin', involving characters that I didn't think we'd seen for 15 years, all with confusing artwork that does not facilitate easy understanding.
I just don't really enjoy New X-Men; they die so often even their own self-pitying speeches have turned to self-referential mockery.
On a good note, though, this issues does contain the latest Endangered Species bit, which I'm enjoying more than most X-books (excluding [X-cluding?] X-Factor). This one was ok; I didn't know the character he was talking to, so I couldn't connect with that, but it was still interesting. I'm hoping this mini-series answers the question that's been bugging me that I don't know an answer to: why the 198? What's special about them, or that number, that prevented them from being hit by Wanda's curse (that's actually part of the story and not an obvious story-telling device to prevent Marvel's most lucrative characters from disappearing)? I do look forward to this.
Alright, I'll fess up: I don't really care about New X-Men. I really don't feel the artwork, I got into it too late to like any character but Santo (and occasionally Dust), and I barely remember half the characters. Combine that with this latest storyline about Ilyana Rasputin, a character I only remember as a child for having died, and I really don't know what's going on in the plot. They're in limbo? It looks like Hell, but I think it's limbo (they keep saying that). A character who's a devil, but not the devil or anything, has huge amounts of power and they need to beat him, so they need a soulsword, which can only be made from yakity smakity, blah blah blah. It's just such a convoluted storyline where things are happening all over the place, with characters dying and being brought back from the dead like nothin', involving characters that I didn't think we'd seen for 15 years, all with confusing artwork that does not facilitate easy understanding.
I just don't really enjoy New X-Men; they die so often even their own self-pitying speeches have turned to self-referential mockery.
On a good note, though, this issues does contain the latest Endangered Species bit, which I'm enjoying more than most X-books (excluding [X-cluding?] X-Factor). This one was ok; I didn't know the character he was talking to, so I couldn't connect with that, but it was still interesting. I'm hoping this mini-series answers the question that's been bugging me that I don't know an answer to: why the 198? What's special about them, or that number, that prevented them from being hit by Wanda's curse (that's actually part of the story and not an obvious story-telling device to prevent Marvel's most lucrative characters from disappearing)? I do look forward to this.
Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man #22
One-sentence summary: In this issue, the Arrow/Ero story arc finally closes with some ridiculous goodness/dumbness, hopefully leaving this series to move on to a more interesting story for the last few issues.
Not sure what to say about this issue. It doesn't really read like Peter David's style; he's usually such a careful plotter, not quite to the point of leaving clues around or anything like that, but usually the end of a story at least makes sense. I sort of wonder if he just got bored with this and tacked on some ending he figured no one would care about (and he's sort of right about that).
I try not to give away plot details (thus the spoiler-free guarantee of these reviews), but I will say that the end of Ero in this book is just dumb, especially considering she's been leading up to be this moderately to very powerful enemy.
I won't say I was massively disappointed by this issue or anything. I wasn't expecting much of it, honestly; this hasn't been the best Spider-Man story (what has the best been recently?). Still, though, this has just been dumb.
I won't ruin much by saying this one last detail: Flash openly talking about having tantric sex with Betty Brant was one of the most disturbing exchanges in recent memory of comics, particularly as they just started dating, in comicdom, about a week ago or so. There's just so much of that that's gross to me.
The art was fine for the issue, though; nothing fantastic, but it was probably the highpoint of the issue. The half-spider, half-woman Arrow was pretty cool looking, I'll give easily. Can't heartily recommend this one, but I have faith enough in Peter David that I'm looking forward to his portion of the Amazing Spider-Man coming soon.
Not sure what to say about this issue. It doesn't really read like Peter David's style; he's usually such a careful plotter, not quite to the point of leaving clues around or anything like that, but usually the end of a story at least makes sense. I sort of wonder if he just got bored with this and tacked on some ending he figured no one would care about (and he's sort of right about that).
I try not to give away plot details (thus the spoiler-free guarantee of these reviews), but I will say that the end of Ero in this book is just dumb, especially considering she's been leading up to be this moderately to very powerful enemy.
I won't say I was massively disappointed by this issue or anything. I wasn't expecting much of it, honestly; this hasn't been the best Spider-Man story (what has the best been recently?). Still, though, this has just been dumb.
I won't ruin much by saying this one last detail: Flash openly talking about having tantric sex with Betty Brant was one of the most disturbing exchanges in recent memory of comics, particularly as they just started dating, in comicdom, about a week ago or so. There's just so much of that that's gross to me.
The art was fine for the issue, though; nothing fantastic, but it was probably the highpoint of the issue. The half-spider, half-woman Arrow was pretty cool looking, I'll give easily. Can't heartily recommend this one, but I have faith enough in Peter David that I'm looking forward to his portion of the Amazing Spider-Man coming soon.
Avengers Initiative #4
One-sentence summary: Probably one of the best World War Hulk tie-ins yet, it both advances the plot behind Initiative as well as giving significant details on World War Hulk.
I've been on the fence about Avengers Initiative for awhile. It seems like a pretty logical idea to me as far as a comic goes, and I have a soft spot for any comic which introduces main characters who can actually die (seems dark, I know, but it just usually makes a better comic). I've so far enjoyed Iniative, so I was a little dismayed to see that this was a World War Hulk tie-in, which, in my mind, immediately changed the title to "Read about the Iniative getting smashed by Hulk!" Imagine my pleasant surprise when that wasn't what it was, really.
This issue barely involves the hulk, directly at least. There's one interesting plot twist it details which, rather than affecting WWH, explains an incident in greater detail, which I thought was neat. It makes it so you don't feel the book was absolutely pointless to the main story (e.g., Ghost Rider), but it doesn't really change anything for those who are only following the main story. I really liked this, and I hope more tie-ins pick up on that (as they're probably told by editors they can't do anything radical).
It also, rather logically, did not have the Initative going after the Hulk. This would just be dumb; instead, they have them helping regular people, each using their powers appropriately. The end, yes, seems to be leading into next issue being "Hulk's Friends Smash," but, hey, at least it's not the Hulk smashing -- I could do with the variety.
Also, the regular story of the Iniative was advanced at least somewhat, even if to a slightly lower extent than a regular issue would do. All in all, this was my favorite tie-in in recent memories, as it actually read like a tie-in and not a 22-page filler issue of ads for whatever the current saga is.
I could pretty easily recommend this to people who are buying the Initiative, as well as people buying what they can of World War Hulk stuff. Not a bad issue at all -- a good job to all involved.
I've been on the fence about Avengers Initiative for awhile. It seems like a pretty logical idea to me as far as a comic goes, and I have a soft spot for any comic which introduces main characters who can actually die (seems dark, I know, but it just usually makes a better comic). I've so far enjoyed Iniative, so I was a little dismayed to see that this was a World War Hulk tie-in, which, in my mind, immediately changed the title to "Read about the Iniative getting smashed by Hulk!" Imagine my pleasant surprise when that wasn't what it was, really.
This issue barely involves the hulk, directly at least. There's one interesting plot twist it details which, rather than affecting WWH, explains an incident in greater detail, which I thought was neat. It makes it so you don't feel the book was absolutely pointless to the main story (e.g., Ghost Rider), but it doesn't really change anything for those who are only following the main story. I really liked this, and I hope more tie-ins pick up on that (as they're probably told by editors they can't do anything radical).
It also, rather logically, did not have the Initative going after the Hulk. This would just be dumb; instead, they have them helping regular people, each using their powers appropriately. The end, yes, seems to be leading into next issue being "Hulk's Friends Smash," but, hey, at least it's not the Hulk smashing -- I could do with the variety.
Also, the regular story of the Iniative was advanced at least somewhat, even if to a slightly lower extent than a regular issue would do. All in all, this was my favorite tie-in in recent memories, as it actually read like a tie-in and not a 22-page filler issue of ads for whatever the current saga is.
I could pretty easily recommend this to people who are buying the Initiative, as well as people buying what they can of World War Hulk stuff. Not a bad issue at all -- a good job to all involved.
The Spirit #8
One-sentence summary: Honestly one of the best books on the market, and if you're not reading it, start.
Darwyn Cooke is one of my favorite guys in the comic book industry right now. New Frontier was simply phenomenal, and his work on the Spirit is fantastic. He's the perfect fit for it, too.
I sincerely can't think of enough good things to say about the Spirit. You have these wonderful one-shots, many connecting through specific character interactions, all of which tell well-plotted stories with art that I adore more than, yunno, words and junk. And, on top of all this, you have a nice dollop of old-fashioned humor that fits the book (and the characters) perfectly.
This is a great book. There aren't too many other books out right now I would claim that of; maybe none. This, however, is great. This is the sort of comic that could get people into comic books, or the sort they enjoy without ever reading another comic.
The Spirit #8 doesn't disappoint in that regard, reuniting our masked protagonist with his secondary romantic interest (which is all sexual tension and nothing else, which makes it all the better), both of them (indirectly) facing off against the main villain, it seems, of the series. It's just a spectacular issue in an incredible series. Highest recommendations for this book.
Darwyn Cooke is one of my favorite guys in the comic book industry right now. New Frontier was simply phenomenal, and his work on the Spirit is fantastic. He's the perfect fit for it, too.
I sincerely can't think of enough good things to say about the Spirit. You have these wonderful one-shots, many connecting through specific character interactions, all of which tell well-plotted stories with art that I adore more than, yunno, words and junk. And, on top of all this, you have a nice dollop of old-fashioned humor that fits the book (and the characters) perfectly.
This is a great book. There aren't too many other books out right now I would claim that of; maybe none. This, however, is great. This is the sort of comic that could get people into comic books, or the sort they enjoy without ever reading another comic.
The Spirit #8 doesn't disappoint in that regard, reuniting our masked protagonist with his secondary romantic interest (which is all sexual tension and nothing else, which makes it all the better), both of them (indirectly) facing off against the main villain, it seems, of the series. It's just a spectacular issue in an incredible series. Highest recommendations for this book.
Robin #164
One-sentence summary: An interesting lead into what looks to be a rather large-scale story for Robin.
It seems a fair number of folks really dislike the book Robin; while I don't share that, I can see where they're coming from. And I can see why they might dislike this upcoming story, with the collection of pretty horrible villains (Tapeworm?) trying to go Bart Allen all over Robin. Somehow, though, I want to see it. I don't have a great explanation why -- maybe I just have a penchant for heroes facing long odds, particularly when those odds include a pair of villains named Micro and Macro. It's just so comic book-y, something young in me loves it. And maybe that's what we should realize with Robin -- is this a book being picked up by folks wanting to see the '80s era giant dick-Batman come back, or is it being picked up by tweens who are going a couple steps farther after watching the Teen Titans cartoon? If it's the latter, then not only does this book make sense, but it succeeds wonderfully. It's not a PG book, don't get me wrong -- Dodge took off, moderately graphically, a guy's hand in this issue. But maybe it has that sense of fun, that art style that just occasionally borders on the cartoonish/animeish, that opens it up to that audience without being a separate brand of comic from those on the shelf around it.
I'll keep reading Robin. I'll look forward to the next issue, not because I really am worried about what will happen (I'll assume Robin will win), but because I'm wanting to see it happen. I want to see how it happens, because I bet it will be fun.
It seems a fair number of folks really dislike the book Robin; while I don't share that, I can see where they're coming from. And I can see why they might dislike this upcoming story, with the collection of pretty horrible villains (Tapeworm?) trying to go Bart Allen all over Robin. Somehow, though, I want to see it. I don't have a great explanation why -- maybe I just have a penchant for heroes facing long odds, particularly when those odds include a pair of villains named Micro and Macro. It's just so comic book-y, something young in me loves it. And maybe that's what we should realize with Robin -- is this a book being picked up by folks wanting to see the '80s era giant dick-Batman come back, or is it being picked up by tweens who are going a couple steps farther after watching the Teen Titans cartoon? If it's the latter, then not only does this book make sense, but it succeeds wonderfully. It's not a PG book, don't get me wrong -- Dodge took off, moderately graphically, a guy's hand in this issue. But maybe it has that sense of fun, that art style that just occasionally borders on the cartoonish/animeish, that opens it up to that audience without being a separate brand of comic from those on the shelf around it.
I'll keep reading Robin. I'll look forward to the next issue, not because I really am worried about what will happen (I'll assume Robin will win), but because I'm wanting to see it happen. I want to see how it happens, because I bet it will be fun.
Checkmate #16
One-sentence summary: An issue that begins a new story, it seems, while wrapping up others, all with an understandable romance -- done well!
Checkmate's an interesting book. I generally really like it, and this issue is no exception. Sometimes, above all things, it's a well-plotted book. This issue does an enormous number of things, and it does them all well. It features flashbacks to flesh out the character of Sasha Bordeaux a bit more, if for nothing else to show us just how horrible what's occurred to her is in the previous issues. At the same time, it shows the background and current developments in her relationship with Mr. Terrific, also wrapping up a storyline from Birds of Prey with the introduction of Ice, and with an end which hints at the directions this story's going next.
Checkmate can be a bit confusing for a new reader, due to the number of characters (particularly if you're unfamiliar with the characters outside of the book). But, I'd say it's worth getting into. The world of superhuman espionage and politics is, well, fantastic. Each development is interesting and has implications.
The art works well for the book; nothing fabulous, but good nevertheless.
Checkmate's an interesting book. I generally really like it, and this issue is no exception. Sometimes, above all things, it's a well-plotted book. This issue does an enormous number of things, and it does them all well. It features flashbacks to flesh out the character of Sasha Bordeaux a bit more, if for nothing else to show us just how horrible what's occurred to her is in the previous issues. At the same time, it shows the background and current developments in her relationship with Mr. Terrific, also wrapping up a storyline from Birds of Prey with the introduction of Ice, and with an end which hints at the directions this story's going next.
Checkmate can be a bit confusing for a new reader, due to the number of characters (particularly if you're unfamiliar with the characters outside of the book). But, I'd say it's worth getting into. The world of superhuman espionage and politics is, well, fantastic. Each development is interesting and has implications.
The art works well for the book; nothing fabulous, but good nevertheless.
Black Canary #2 (of 4)
One-sentence summary: Black Canary's mini-series is better than I expected, and is generally pretty decent.
I'll admit: I'm liking this book so far. Maybe I'm softening with age or something, but I find Sin's occasional cuteness, well, fun. Followed by her hideous bursts of violence, well, that's what makes it a comic book. The art works for this title, and the story is crisp and fairly sensible. No great lengths are being taken so that what's going on is reasonable; rather, it's pretty easy to see a longtime Green Arrow foe taking advantage of this situation, as it gives him an opportunity to hurt Green Arrow while taking advantage that he's in close proximity to a person of large importance to the assassin community.
It helps that they're pushing this book out once per every two weeks. A story like this might lose momentum with a month's wait (maybe), but as is is pretty brisk and enjoyable.
I'm not a long-time Black Canary/Green Arrow fan, so maybe there are some greivous character errors happening here, but as far as I'm concerned it's all good. I generally like this title, if not that enthusiastically. Good job, comic book.
I'll admit: I'm liking this book so far. Maybe I'm softening with age or something, but I find Sin's occasional cuteness, well, fun. Followed by her hideous bursts of violence, well, that's what makes it a comic book. The art works for this title, and the story is crisp and fairly sensible. No great lengths are being taken so that what's going on is reasonable; rather, it's pretty easy to see a longtime Green Arrow foe taking advantage of this situation, as it gives him an opportunity to hurt Green Arrow while taking advantage that he's in close proximity to a person of large importance to the assassin community.
It helps that they're pushing this book out once per every two weeks. A story like this might lose momentum with a month's wait (maybe), but as is is pretty brisk and enjoyable.
I'm not a long-time Black Canary/Green Arrow fan, so maybe there are some greivous character errors happening here, but as far as I'm concerned it's all good. I generally like this title, if not that enthusiastically. Good job, comic book.
Birds of Prey #108
One-sentence summary: Birds of Prey wraps up the Spy Smasher storyline in a very satisfactory way, as well as offering a fantastic 4-page spread, as well as offering a bit of nice epilogue.
I like Birds of Prey; I didn't initially, but it has definitely grown on me. Maybe that's due to the fact that you can't help but slowly grow to like most the characters due to Simone's crisp dialogue, or maybe just because it's a good book. In this issue you get a great end to Spy Smasher (anyone who's been following the storyline will be muttering "bitch had it coming," guaranteed), followed by some likable aftermath with no awkward attempts to bridge to the next storyline (which I appreciated). Again, while this is obviously not an issue to start reading on, the storyline is worth the trade paperback.
I might rave about the writing, but the art for Birds of Prey is excellent too, in such a way that it's just that right level of great that it complements the story in such a way it blends. The art team did great work on this issue.
I just checked and found out this is Simone's last issue (that and the cover to the next issue is absolutely abhorrent). This is a sad, sad thing.
I'm sad to see Simone's run end, but I'm glad it ended on a pretty good note.
I like Birds of Prey; I didn't initially, but it has definitely grown on me. Maybe that's due to the fact that you can't help but slowly grow to like most the characters due to Simone's crisp dialogue, or maybe just because it's a good book. In this issue you get a great end to Spy Smasher (anyone who's been following the storyline will be muttering "bitch had it coming," guaranteed), followed by some likable aftermath with no awkward attempts to bridge to the next storyline (which I appreciated). Again, while this is obviously not an issue to start reading on, the storyline is worth the trade paperback.
I might rave about the writing, but the art for Birds of Prey is excellent too, in such a way that it's just that right level of great that it complements the story in such a way it blends. The art team did great work on this issue.
I just checked and found out this is Simone's last issue (that and the cover to the next issue is absolutely abhorrent). This is a sad, sad thing.
I'm sad to see Simone's run end, but I'm glad it ended on a pretty good note.
Aquaman: Sword of Atlantis #54
One-sentence summary: A new, and final, chapter of the new Aquaman is beginning, with what looks to be lots of revelations packed into the last 3 issues of the series.
Aquaman has never been one of my favorites; this has continued to be true since the One Year Later rehash that is the new Aquaman. In brief, I think they missed one of the key points of a rehash when they did this, and that's to help introduce new readers to the series. I hadn't followed Aquaman before OYL, and, due to entirely coincidental reasons, that's more or less when I started reading it. As a new reader coming into the book at a new beginning, I should have been able to feel like I was on the same page with everyone else, like someone reading The Mighty Avengers #1 who didn't read the other Avengers runs. Instead, I'm thrust into this story about Sub Diego, replete with loads of characters from the original series I was unfamiliar with but clearly should have known. All in all, I couldn't enjoy it, and so it came as no shock that it's being cancelled.
That being said, though, I was intrigued by the storyline going on and wish that could have gotten more fully told. Instead, I'm sure they'll just retcon the original Aquaman back into things and end the series with that. This issue, though, isn't too bad at all. The story moves in interesting directions, and the art fits it in parts, which is nice.
I will say this about the art: I really do like the style, I'm just not sure if it fits this book with this story. It's a good style, but it just feels a bit cartoonish at times for this story. I hope McManus finds a good project after this; it'd be a shame to see him just drop off the radar.
I'm interested to see how they end this series. I hope they manage to wrap up the storylines, but I somehow really doubt that occuring, at least to a satisfactory extent. We'll see, though. Hopefully.
Aquaman has never been one of my favorites; this has continued to be true since the One Year Later rehash that is the new Aquaman. In brief, I think they missed one of the key points of a rehash when they did this, and that's to help introduce new readers to the series. I hadn't followed Aquaman before OYL, and, due to entirely coincidental reasons, that's more or less when I started reading it. As a new reader coming into the book at a new beginning, I should have been able to feel like I was on the same page with everyone else, like someone reading The Mighty Avengers #1 who didn't read the other Avengers runs. Instead, I'm thrust into this story about Sub Diego, replete with loads of characters from the original series I was unfamiliar with but clearly should have known. All in all, I couldn't enjoy it, and so it came as no shock that it's being cancelled.
That being said, though, I was intrigued by the storyline going on and wish that could have gotten more fully told. Instead, I'm sure they'll just retcon the original Aquaman back into things and end the series with that. This issue, though, isn't too bad at all. The story moves in interesting directions, and the art fits it in parts, which is nice.
I will say this about the art: I really do like the style, I'm just not sure if it fits this book with this story. It's a good style, but it just feels a bit cartoonish at times for this story. I hope McManus finds a good project after this; it'd be a shame to see him just drop off the radar.
I'm interested to see how they end this series. I hope they manage to wrap up the storylines, but I somehow really doubt that occuring, at least to a satisfactory extent. We'll see, though. Hopefully.
Amazons Attack #4 (of 6)
One-sentence summary: Another issue of Amazons Attack offers more of the same, though the plot does move along well.
I think I'm getting Event-Burnout, to some degree. No, I guess I take that back; I'm getting Amazons Attack/World War Hulk burnout. For Amazons Attack, my main complaint with it is just that, well, it didn't get my interest. I'm the sort of guy who reads every single mainstream comic so, really, if you can't get my interest there's something supremely wrong. I think it's because the event seemed so forced -- you have these gigantic, horrifying things happening with no effects in other, non-tie-in books, and it came with no build-up. Just seemed hastily put-together to me.
I will say, the plot moves along quite well in this issue. I will say the biggest revelation in the book was almost missed by me, just due to no real details around it. But, the book moves the story along, which is nice to see, and the art's all fine. I'm by no stretch warming up to the previous issues of Amazons Attack, but this one has made me slightly more curious to see how they'll deal with the aftermath. Will there be actual changes in the DCU due to this? Will this at least seriously affect Wonder Woman's future? Who knows, but Amazons Attack looks to be wrapping up in a better way than it began, at least.
I think I'm getting Event-Burnout, to some degree. No, I guess I take that back; I'm getting Amazons Attack/World War Hulk burnout. For Amazons Attack, my main complaint with it is just that, well, it didn't get my interest. I'm the sort of guy who reads every single mainstream comic so, really, if you can't get my interest there's something supremely wrong. I think it's because the event seemed so forced -- you have these gigantic, horrifying things happening with no effects in other, non-tie-in books, and it came with no build-up. Just seemed hastily put-together to me.
I will say, the plot moves along quite well in this issue. I will say the biggest revelation in the book was almost missed by me, just due to no real details around it. But, the book moves the story along, which is nice to see, and the art's all fine. I'm by no stretch warming up to the previous issues of Amazons Attack, but this one has made me slightly more curious to see how they'll deal with the aftermath. Will there be actual changes in the DCU due to this? Will this at least seriously affect Wonder Woman's future? Who knows, but Amazons Attack looks to be wrapping up in a better way than it began, at least.
Action Comics #852
One-sentence summary: A decent tie-in with Countdown with nothing particular going for it or against it.
I really liked the sequence with the Kryptonite Man, giving Jimmy that final push to become a hero, but, really, this was just a useless tie-in issue trying to push the sales up of Countdown. That's fine and everything, but it just leaves a meh-filler issue. It's not bad, just not great, either.
Why's the review so short? There's really just not much to say about this one. It's fine.
I really liked the sequence with the Kryptonite Man, giving Jimmy that final push to become a hero, but, really, this was just a useless tie-in issue trying to push the sales up of Countdown. That's fine and everything, but it just leaves a meh-filler issue. It's not bad, just not great, either.
Why's the review so short? There's really just not much to say about this one. It's fine.
Friday, July 20, 2007
World War Hulk: X-Men #2 (of 3)
One-sentence summary: Wow, Hulk sure can smash.
Is it showing yet that I'm just getting irritated with the World War Hulk tie-ins? It makes complete sense that Xavier, who didn't participate in the voting but was involved with the Illuminati, would feel guilty and be honest with Hulk. I don't quite understand why he's so passive in watching his students and friends get torn apart, but, hey, not my tie-in book to write.
In other news: Hulk smashes mutants! I particularly like how they're bring in some international mutants for 3 extra panels of smashing.
My conclusion for all zero of you? Pick this up if you haven't grown tired of Hulk smashing and you would like to see said smashing in X-Men flavors. Also available: every other character in the Marvel universe.
Is it showing yet that I'm just getting irritated with the World War Hulk tie-ins? It makes complete sense that Xavier, who didn't participate in the voting but was involved with the Illuminati, would feel guilty and be honest with Hulk. I don't quite understand why he's so passive in watching his students and friends get torn apart, but, hey, not my tie-in book to write.
In other news: Hulk smashes mutants! I particularly like how they're bring in some international mutants for 3 extra panels of smashing.
My conclusion for all zero of you? Pick this up if you haven't grown tired of Hulk smashing and you would like to see said smashing in X-Men flavors. Also available: every other character in the Marvel universe.
Wolverine Origins Annual #1
One-sentence summary: While definitely better than the normal Wolverine Origins issue, it's still just another Wolverine story.
This wasn't too bad of a comic, really; the art was not my thing, and the story was just mediocre, but that's so far above the par for Wolverine Origins I've gotta give this issue a compliment for that.
Why was it better? Possibly because it didn't feature much from Wolverine Origins. While it's a flashback issue dealing with some random aspect of his past (which I stopped even trying to make sense of 7 years ago), the present-day story portion seems much more relevant to the main Wolverine book, which is currently fathoms better than Origins.
Is that a bad thing for a title? For the annual to be the best issue in -- well, probably ever -- because it shares few if any characteristics with the main book? Probably so; still true, though.
This wasn't too bad of a comic, really; the art was not my thing, and the story was just mediocre, but that's so far above the par for Wolverine Origins I've gotta give this issue a compliment for that.
Why was it better? Possibly because it didn't feature much from Wolverine Origins. While it's a flashback issue dealing with some random aspect of his past (which I stopped even trying to make sense of 7 years ago), the present-day story portion seems much more relevant to the main Wolverine book, which is currently fathoms better than Origins.
Is that a bad thing for a title? For the annual to be the best issue in -- well, probably ever -- because it shares few if any characteristics with the main book? Probably so; still true, though.
Thunderbolts: Desperate Measures
One-sentence summary: While I'm uncertain of the purpose of this one-shot except to show how very deep Speedball -- uhh, Penance -- is, it's not bad.
For those of us who aren't content with once-a-month doses of our favorite Osborn-ran team, here's a one-shot. There's nothing particularly amazing about this issue, but the art's alright and the story's not too shabby, centering around Penance going slightly closer to "edgy" from his current "absolutely crazy."
On a slightly off-topic bit, I think it's a bit funny how this comes out the week after the GLI Summer One-shot with Squirrel Girl ridiculing Speedball, including an amazing appearance of his now-deep and dark cat, Niels. I can imagine them planing this release entirely to reinforce Penance's "bad-ass" reputation after the GLI special.
Man, I really over-used quotation mark-ed adjectives this time. I guess it's because Penance still isn't established solidly in my mind, so any sort of characteristics he has seem sort of temporary or forced to me; I'm sure that'll fade.
In total, though, this isn't too bad of a one-shot. There are definitely some good moments. Not too bad at all.
For those of us who aren't content with once-a-month doses of our favorite Osborn-ran team, here's a one-shot. There's nothing particularly amazing about this issue, but the art's alright and the story's not too shabby, centering around Penance going slightly closer to "edgy" from his current "absolutely crazy."
On a slightly off-topic bit, I think it's a bit funny how this comes out the week after the GLI Summer One-shot with Squirrel Girl ridiculing Speedball, including an amazing appearance of his now-deep and dark cat, Niels. I can imagine them planing this release entirely to reinforce Penance's "bad-ass" reputation after the GLI special.
Man, I really over-used quotation mark-ed adjectives this time. I guess it's because Penance still isn't established solidly in my mind, so any sort of characteristics he has seem sort of temporary or forced to me; I'm sure that'll fade.
In total, though, this isn't too bad of a one-shot. There are definitely some good moments. Not too bad at all.
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