What Not To Do

Okay, so you know I mentioned not to long ago that I don't like to come right out and say someone is just riding the wave of another person's idea. But this April solicit for Aspen is obviously trying to snag some of the success of Fell. Now, normally I would be all for this, I would be behind this book just as I was Fell. But read on, and I think you will figure out exactly why I am not.

From Aspen in April










SHRUGGED: BEGINNINGS

Written by Michael Turner, pencils by Micah Gunnell, inks by Jason Gorder, colors by Beth Sotelo.

From the same creative mind that brought you Fathom and Soulfire , comes the next wondrous step in comic-book entertainment! For every right, there is a wrong. For every action, there is a reaction. For every up, there is a down. And for every decision Theo makes, there is someone making the decisions for himŠ.and all of us! Welcome to Perspecta, and the reason behind your wildest thoughts and darkest desires. If you thought you knew anything about our world, think again! It's about to be turned upside down, and that little voice inside your head is about to get much louder! Join artists Micah Gunnell, Jason Gorder, Beth Sotelo and creator Michael Turner as this 7-page introductory story (with added bonus sketch material and designs) opens your eyes to a whole new beginning!
16 pages, $1.99.

Thoughts?

Comics to Come (1-11-06)

This is actually comics from last week and comics coming this week.

Shipped Last Week: January 5, 2006

DC COMICS:

HARD TIME SEASON TWO #2 $2.50- It feels like I just expressed how much I enjoy this series. And in fact I did, a couple of blogs ago. This really is quite an inventive series. It is very different from my usual superhero series. It has a nice sardonic wit, ever wild and inventive plots, and a dark twisted setting that has me intrigued from page one.

MARVEL

MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #11 $2.50- This, at least by appearances, will be Sean McKeever's second to last issue. Which also makes it my second to last issue. It has been a fun ride, and I hope that McKeever makes his finale issue as exciting as all his other issues. I think all together he will have had a six issue run, which is plenty for me to keep and appreciate.

MARVEL TEAM-UP #16 $2.99- This title is very much a case of having an easy sell, to having surprisingly cult, but still strong enough audience to continue. To all the Geekspeak guys recommending it. When I started talking about this title I thought it was time wasted, I mean with a first and second issue with Wolverine and Spidey on the cover I thought it would at least have fanboy buzz and beyond that all the people that buy anything Wolverine or anything Spidey would keep it going. And then it became just the book I hoped it would, a who's who of the Marvel Universe, with strong and silly and inventive stories to boot. When all is said and done I hope this title stays around for a long time.

Shipping This Week: January 11, 2006

DC COMICS

DESOLATION JONES #5 (MR) $2.99- I have not talked about this book for awhile (mainly because of its shipping schedule) but the saying rings true, absence makes the heart grow fonder. This is the kind of series that one can forget that they like so much. It has a dirtbag likeable character surrounded by nicer looking yet equally corrupt souls. The plot is a mystery wrapped in an enigma... the only thing one can be sure of is that Jones will come out on top (it is his book after all).

MARVEL

CABLE DEADPOOL #24 $2.99- This book is guest-starring Spidey. Spider-Man Deadpool might have been a more fitting title. I have had a fondness for Deadpool since his appearances with Daredevil. A funny man to DD's serious persona. Well, with this newest pairing expect to be tripping over quips, and ducking the sharpness of cutting wit.

EXILES #75 $2.99- 2099. 2099! Nuff said.

SHE-HULK 2 #4 $2.99- This is going to be a doozy of an issue following the last one. Not only do Jen and the readers have to catch back up, but we will also be dealing with (at least a bit I hope) this role that Jen plays in a future war. Also who is the mystery Avenger that She-Hulk brought back from time limbo?

SON OF M #2 (OF 6) $2.99- Two David Hine books this week. After a strong first issue we get to see who else wants to find Quicksilver and give him his due. He is responsible for the reality altering House of M, of course now that his wife has found him, he might well be in the dog house.

X-MEN THE 198 #1 (OF 5) $2.99- This book follows the group of mutants sheltering themselves in Xaviers mansion, who have dubbed themsevelves The 198, which is the (estimated) number of mutants that they think is still on the planet Earth. This is also Hine's second book this week, so I have expectations of good characterisation, and a strong story.

http://media.libsyn.com/media/comicgeekspeak/cgs-episode101.mp3

2005 In Review

I really hate these focuses, and I don't just mean doing them over the year, I mean when anyone does them. Because some really good things get glossed over or forgotten entirely. It takes that mind for trivia or things of that nature to remember just exactly what happened two or three months ago, much less an entire year. So, I am not going to do that, mainly because I am too tired. And also even when feeling my best it would be a lousy attempt.

One trend I have enjoyed for 2005 was the stand-alone crossovers. While this is probably the world's biggest oxymoron. I think it has been successful, and should continue. I think the comics community has seen it could be done with Identity Crisis and gone on from there. Mini-series that are the event... you don't need anything else. Keep it up, and keep letting me know that I can go it solo. Test the waters as it were.

Bringing back the fun. I am sure this is on some people's lists as a horrible thing. But I cannot remember the last time I have had so much fun reading comics. 2005 was a good year. And I have to admit I am reading books I never thought I would read. Books like (to pimp out once again) She-Hulk, New Warriors, Ultimates, Runaways, Young Avengers, New Avengers, Daredevil (just kidding), GLA, Gravity, Mary Jane... the list could go on... and on.

Fell. This one got its own paragraph, by far one of the best series to come out 2005. And yet again added another writer to my radar who I probably would have always stayed away from, and now I have to fight off not buying, Warren Ellis is a prolific writer. If you are not buying this... there is just nothing else I can say. If you read one comic... let it be Fell. It's $1.99 and it is full of goodness. The most dense read of my month, and it also has the least pages... beautifully set-up. It is a bargain. I know it is recent... but I am hoping it starts a trend in 2006.

Creator over character. This is a trend I should have been following along time ago. Why it did not occur to me that if you like Mark Millar, or Dan Slott, Sean McKeever... buy their books (oops... Robert Kirkman too *wink*). You might get one or two series that you are not thrilled with. But it is alot better than my trend of: buy Daredevil... and suffer, until something better comes along.

Looking Forward. I don't think I said in 1995, that 1996 was going to be a great year. And it was, Kesel and Nord on DD *drool*. I don't think I said in 1998, that 1999 was going to be a great year. And it was, Kevin Smith on DD. But 2006, I can't wait! I am getting tired of events, but damn... when you got Mark Millar taking the helm... you can at least have the safe bet it will knock your socks off. Who's side are you on? 1985. If you don't know what I am talking about, keep your eyes on this blog... you will! And DC even got me, after much staring at my wallet, and looking at the amount of comics DC wanted you to get to "jump in" to Infinite Crisis! At least 200 and some dollars for the pre-show folks.

After all that, I am so freakin' psyched for 52! A comic put out every week for a year. The fabulous covers of J. H. Williams III, three very accomplished writers taking the helm, and one series for a (real time) year's worth of DC in one book. This is a very risky idea. But this is like the fanboy dream of "jumping on" title. Never read a DC book? This one book, a whole universe, an expertly plotted year. It's insane! I love it. This is one book that people can finally say, and with a great deal of credibility, "In 2006, 52 was pretty damn cool."

I might get to those further reviews (mentioned in the previous entry) but being this tired makes me a bitter reader, and taints my perception. Couldn't tell by this post though, eh?

2 Weeks in Review

This is Panel to Panel reviews in the order my comics were read. And actually right after reading. Let me warn you... this is a long one. So get ready hold on to your, well... whatever you have to grab. Oh and if you haven't read these, then you might want to, "Move along... this is not the blog entry your looking for."

First off, Daredevil #81- Wow! I mean that is all I can think to say. The suspense... the tension it was all magnified to the billionth degree. There was only one character in control, only one man knew the outcome. And he is a fat, smug and manipulative bastard, who I hope no one affectionately calls the Kingpin. Who would have thought what could happen to one man could turn so many peoples' world upside down. A fate worse than death. Okay, I got a lot of friends, so hopefully that one was nice and cryptic. I also, and damn me for saying this, but I think this is a great jumping on point for new readers... read the first page and just fly by the seat of your pants from there on out, that is what I did.

Amazing Spider-Man #527- Part 9 of 12 of the Other. I have to say, I am a little pissed. Not in the "oh the Goblin screwed Gwen Stacy pissed", but in the "oh sweet lord not again" pissed. For those of you unfamiliar with when J. Michael Strazynski first came on to Spider-Man. He had a pretty wild start. Basically taking Spidey's origin and turning it on its head. And all with one simple question... did the spider get blasted by radiation and that gave Peter Parker his powers, or did the spider already have powers and instinctively want to pass them on before death. Well, more recently, Peter has been forced to embrace the spider part of his powers... more importantly the effects he was unknowingly hiding. Since he got his powers as a teen it was explained that he got all the cool powers: Speed, Strength, Agility... Wall Climbing, and just... stopped there. For fear of what else might come along that would not be so cool. Well now, he has to face this part of him he has let lay dormant... and it may be that the spider has taken over entirely. So the question now becomes, "Is he a man embracing the Spider, or the spider embracing the Man." Basically. is even Peter Parker anymore? I know. it makes my head hurt too, and damn JMS... you had to drag this out from the beginning of your run, you better damn well answer this time.

Young Avengers Special #1- Well one thing I will say, way to start it off Marvel. First page... Boom... Gaydos art. I think Marvel knows they have talent with that guy, and I could not agree more. This book is another one that would make a fine jumping on point for the curious reader, and at this point, I don't think I will ever leave this book. It embraces the Marvel Universe, creating connections and bonds to the past with a passion that is always contagious. If you want to feel Marvel history in your finger tips. Pick this up, and enjoy. A fine cast of characters, of all kinds.

(Sorry this next one is so long but each story deserved a bit of a spotlight)
Lucky Bamboo Presents #0- This was quite a surprise, I have been waiting on this book for a long long time. And let me tell you, it is a nice package, just feeling the cover... made my hands shiver a bit. I don't think it is cardstock, it is the type of cover that when you run your fingers across it is soft, not slick like most of the expensive covers today. It just feels worthy of one's time even before it is opened. It was good to start with Hellfire as it seems to be the most pleasing on the eyes, I think it grabs attention quite nicely. And from a sense of story, it is the one that I think would most leave a new reader wanting more. A nice modern take on a very unique female character as well, and if there is one statement that can define all of these characters, it is unique.

The next story "The Way of the Sword" tells a nicely executed origin story, it combines quite a few fears... fear of being alone, feeling helpless... the sheer uncaring method of tragedy. And the triumph of fighting to make it out alive. If there is one thing that displeased me about this story, it was where the second part of it ended up. Already immersed in her adult life, and not knowing where she was, and only part of how and why... it left me wanting more, in that case mission accomplished.

The third story I knew months ago was going to be my favorite. It was about a private detective Sam Falcon, detective to mystical lands. The one factor that I was judging closely was the dialogue... as cliche and over-used as it may be, I love the narration of Philip Marlowe and Sam Spade. And Fiona Avery captures that with an amusing and yet again, more modern skill. I could not get into the art at first. Something about it just took me out of the story. I got used to it, but all the same something about it just did not sit well with me. I think I have been spoiled by that fantastic Amanda Conner image on the cover, and who wouldn't be? I am still a bit upset that Sam Falcon will be the last of these series published, but at least I know the others will also be good while I wait.
(Thus ends this review)

Hard Time: Season Two #1- This was a wonderfully written first issue choosing to launch the reader straight into a gruesome example of prison life. And telling the reader right off if they are ready to take the ride into something dark and brutal. Then things get decidely more relateable. as Ethan Harrow (our main character) is asked to tell a pair of workers for the Prisoners' Rights Foundation just exactly how, at sixteen, he found himself in prison. This was both a recap and an expansion of what has been told before. So even the faithful reader of the previous series gets enjoyment. And anyone can find a way to relate to Ethan's dismal high school experiences. It's not often I can decide to keep a series based on the premiere issue alone, but this one allowed me to do that easily.

Grounded #1 (second printing)- Now comes the part of the blog where I cry. (I know, again) But I am so mad I missed out on this. This has to be my favorite comic, ever. It just fits me so well, it is like the writer picked me out of a crowd, and wrote a comic for me (changing all the names, places, and events to protect the innocent). All the same though, this was so cool. I wish I would have seen it five or ten years ago. Hell, I wish I would have been able to get it months and months ago when it came out. I am not going to say anything else... seek ... find... if anything find more for me.

Runaways #11- Okay this would be alot easier if I just professed my love to all my comics. This is another great issue, but for those of you who regularly read this blog, then you know Runaways has always been a great read, and talk about cliffhangers... I can't think of a book that does them better. I am not going to say it needs your support, I suppose it might, but man this book kicks butt. One word... Wolverine... last page... trouble. Okay that is like four words... and Wolverine is everywhere anyway, but this is still worth checking out. Definetly.

Exiles #74- Do you see that... you see my font dancing? Ooooh Exiles is so good. And this month Nightmask (from New Universe) took the spotlight, and it was a thing of beauty. Sometimes the person with a seemingly less effective power can be the one to turn the tide. I hope that when Warren Ellis does his New Universal series that Nightmask remains. Oh and next... *drool* the honest to goodness original 2099! Good glory. I love me some Exiles!

Fallen Angel #1- What a strange and breath taking journey this book is. I am not sure if it is approachable as one review has said, but it does make one stop and take notice. Peter David tells his narrative through one of my favorite characters from Bete Noir. Only because he reminds me of the slimy character from Casablanca, the one who has Rick hide the tickets and then is murdered. Anyway, if you know who I am talking about picture his voice as you read the narrative. It was always one of my favorite things to do. I think I enjoy this book, it really should not even be questioned... I love to read Peter David, so I am really hoping Fallen Angel rises to the ocassion. Give it a try, let me know what you think.

More coming soon ... lots more.

Brother's Keeper

Happy Holidays All!

Christmas Confessions

This year was probably one of our more financially beneficial Christmases here at the Karguth corral. It helped that we were a bit better off compared to Christmas past. I suppose if I were a bit more into the sort of thing, I would say it was karma. We gave a better bounty this year... there was some gifts I felt genuinely very good about. I am still mad because my brother took my idea for my father's gift (but that's for a blog closer to the New Year). Ah well, Dad will probably like mine better, W, that is just all there is to it :^D

Anyway back on to the confessing part of that title. I have stolen two gifts this year. Forgive me Father Christmas... for I have sinned. The first was given to my son... it is a bank which counts coins with kind of like a calculator in the feeder so that it gives a digitally displayed read out. Well... I took it. And I have $15.50 worth of change... and it feels good!

Now on to the next thing, I am not sure I mentioned it on this blog, but I get a retailer's magazine. (I know I am not a retailer... *looks around* shhhhh). Well, this time when it came, I got a calendar. A really cool calendar. From the folks at CBG (you should all be getting this magazine- see past first blog entries for info). I was so happy, I have to say, it is pretty cool. I will take a picture of the cover to show off here.

So... there we go, confessed... deep breath and all that. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday, plenty bountiful in it's own way. I will have a picture of my two favorite little elves in a day or two. That's the thing about Christmas, the camera is always in use.

Raw and Uncovered

Sometimes I try
to leave far behind
this longing I feel
so deep inside

If left denied
with time spent to hide
Perhaps it is best that its over

Well, I've...
begun to take these moments
and examine them so well
then I take the keys I've found
and I lock myself up tight

I take a breath
of this thorny rose
it sinks to my chest
and I decompose

And I am chasing this
a surreal bliss
it felt so heavy on my shoulders

Well, I'm...
a danger to myself
and I know it all too well
but, I can sink beneath the ocean
and be gone forever more

Copyright ©2005 Justin Karguth

Comics to Come (12-21-05)

Shipping This Week: December 21, 2005

DC COMICS

JUSTICE #3 (OF 12) $3.50- What a series! I have always said that I would like to be able to approach the DC Universe with one book. A kind of starter book, and then if I wanted to, I could branch out from there. This book fits that spot very nicely, it spans the heroes and villians and puts them all in an unusual but exciting situation. The bad guys think they are the only ones who can save the world, and the heroes don't even know it is going to end. Plus with assisted interiors and story plot by Alex Ross it looks as great as it reads.

IMAGE

IMAGE FIRST TP (MR) $6.99- It is very rare when a company puts a product out that I will say something like "following so and so's lead". But this is one exception, because it is painfully obvious that Image is doing this in response to Vertigo's excellent First Tastes TPB. I am not going to fault them for that, I would like to see all the bigger companies doing more books like these. Vertigo is on their second volume, so it must have been successful. And really the price points are really good for a variety of first issues. My only complaint would be if this is comics that Image first came out with, as I think they have a much better range of material recently then their initial superhero fare.

MARVEL

MARVEL SPOTLIGHT JOHN CASSADAY SEAN MCKEEVER $2.99- I am not sure what to expect from this magazine. I think that magazine better describes the material that is going to be presented rather than the format, in this case. And really they picked some top notch talent to spotlight in this first issue. I am less familiar with John Cassaday but I did get to see his artwork in the Astonishing X-Men TPB, and it is really excellent. Realism mixed with the wonder of the fantastic. And Sean (*Eisner Award Winning) McKeever, I have sang his praises so many times on this blog that I would be surprised if you did not know who he is. He writes the amazing title Gravity, along with two Mary Jane miniseries, and an upcoming series Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane, also Marvel Adventures Spider-Man. And all of them are great reads. I am crossing my fingers that I like this new Spotlight, as I am now buying it a couple of issues in advance. *Sean Mckeever insists everyone call him Eisner Award Winning

RUNAWAYS #11 $2.99- Wow, it seems like more often than not, this is the title I have to think back in my head as to what happened. There is no denying it is a well-written and drawn series... it is just that so much happens. And I like to know whether to recommend a book on its jumping on issue, this current issue is mid-arc, so it might be a bit hard to get into it. But this has also been one of my favorite arcs. Those Los Angeles outcasts kicking it with the old pro heroes in NY city. What's not to love?

SPIDER-WOMAN ORIGIN #1 (OF 5) $2.99- This is one of those books that I would not have gotten probably even a year ago. I just did not care for the character, but this is not unlike She-Hulk, in that this is a character I am quickly gaining interest in thanks to thought out writing. And I figured since I was planning on getting the ongoing series (coming sometime next year). And I trust both writers Brian Reed and Brian Bendis. Brian Reed co-wrote the excellent Ultimate Spider-Man game along w/ Brian Bendis. Bendis, who writes alot of great Marvel comics now... like oh New Avengers, Pulse, Daredevil and lots lots others. And art by the Luna brothers who were fan voted on the Bendis message board. Should be beautiful stuff.

COMICS

JUGHEAD #170 $2.25- This is here to remind a friend of mine to look into giving this character a try this week. I will be getting issues in March. So I can comment more then.

JUGHEADS DOUBLE DIGEST #118 $3.59- This is my last month of chasing this title down, as I have already added it to my DCBS shipment for January. I always liked Jughead, he just to me seemed the most level-headed and relaxed of the Archie crew. I mean the main characters (Betty, Veronica and Archie) all have eccentricities. But they rarely change. And even if they do, it just feels forced. Where as Jughead has that ability to surprise me every time I read, and yet it is still very true to his character. He is very smart, but he does not make it a point to let that be a distinguishing quality. And it is not that he hates girls, as many will say, he quite fancies and is a good friend to Betty. He lost his first love when she moved away, and later she came back, and their love was renewed, only to have her move again. I think that his non-commital attitude is so that he can maintain a solid wall. He has very few male friends, to be honest. And I much prefer Jughead's approach to Archie's... who just paints himself as a silly hormone driven goof. Beyond all that deeper thinking, I also relate to Jughead's wit, and willingness to stand up to convention. I like his speeches on being lazy and eating. He just is a very broad and fun character. I would continue reading Jughead if I got to read nothing else.

RELATED MERCHANDISE

COMICS AS PHILOSOPHY HC $45.00- If anyone has read this or seen a review. It looks like it might be pretty good. I would have to get the softcover version though. Thanks for any help.

Live and Let Lie

Well, I'm not the kind of man
who goes crying in his beers
or chasing all my pain away
with a drink beyond my years

I don't get all emotional
that's the way it's always been
yet you never fail to leave me lost
when you pack up again

An empty heart
and a pack of lies
rolled up in my sleeve
my day won't start
until I realise
Ask and she shall deceive

There's a wedding
somewhere in San Antonio
I changed my address
so I might not have to know

I didn't think she could hurt me more
and I suppose that much is true
but if I could do one single thing
I'd probably toast the groom

"She's got an empty heart
and a pack of lies
she's probably gonna leave
but your life will start
when you've realized
Ask she shall deceive."

Copyright ©2005 Justin Karguth

Comics To Come

I am anything if inconsistent, but it really seems this might just be a weekly blog, perhaps I should put the date in the title? Just to spice things up a bit.

This Week: December 14, 2005

DC COMICS

BEST OF THE SPIRIT TP $14.99- This appeals to me quite a bit. I feel a connection to the Spirit since he first appeared on June 2nd, 1940 and I first appeared on June 2, 1981. And really, as a comics fan I should have read at least some of The Spirit by now. In a few months there will be plenty go around though. In March Darkhorse is coming out with The Amazing Adventures of the Escapist Vol. 3 TPB features the late Will Eisner’s final return to the Spirit, in a crossover tale with the Escapist. Moreover, in June 2006 (hopefully the 2nd) will be a new series by the talented Darwin Cooke that should please fans new and old.

MARVEL

GLX-MAS SPECIAL $3.99- I am going to go out on a limb and say that this is probably the first overpriced Christmas comic that is worth every penny. What's that? Oh, I know I haven't read it, but Dan Slott can weave a one-shot story with the best of them. And the original series GLA (GLA: Misassembled TPB out this week as well) made me think, and feel, and enjoy characters I had never read before. One thing I can say with a great deal of certainty, it will probably be one of the most unexpected Christmas comics you will read for some time.

GRAVITY BIG CITY SUPER HERO DIGEST $7.99- Here is another series that I have been singing praises about since before it came out. And it did not disappoint, old school superhero fun with modern twists. Pick up the story of Greg Willis... Wisconsin native, new to New York, with powers that will have you falling all over yourself. (Okay, that was bad) But trust me, this book is an excellent stocking stuffer. If you want a superhero that you can start fresh with... experience along with... and relate to all on your own. This is your go to book. Oh, and just for proper assurance... that stocking stuffer reference... I meant my stocking.

MARVEL KNIGHTS SPIDER-MAN #21 $2.99- Well, this is where I here the story kicks in to high gear. J. Michael Strazynski takes the wheel and floors the gas, in a story that is paying off threads since JMS began his run on Amazing just a few short years ago. It has been bellowed about message boards (and by some who are no longer comic fans) that the heroes never change. But JMS has changed quite a bit already, and yet in the beginning as a reader you couldn't help but feel he was walking that same line. He would give the reader a possibility, but then make sure that is found out to be neither truth nor lie. Well, the same cannot be said now... I would not be surprised if when the smoke clears, things are really different. Until Gwen Stacy sleeps with the Green Goblin, make mine Marvel ... ... Oh, right.

SON OF M #1 (OF 6) $2.99- David Hine. Daredevil: Redemption's David Hine. Taking on the hero who was responsible for screwing up the world. Add to that he also responsible for millions and millions of mutants losing their powers. Is he also powerless? What is he going to do when those he hurt most come after him? The first of those being the Amazing Spider-Man... well you pull a Fugitive and run like hell. Or as fast as a powerless Quicksilver can run. Give it a try, you could do worse then David Hine... and that cover. Gorgeous.

X-FACTOR #1 $2.99- Spinning out of last year's noir hit, about a man who can multiply himself (Madrox is out in trade now) and when the multiples come back to him, he absorbs what they see and learn. Well, this is the perfect opportunity to see a group of heroes like you have rarely seen before, solving crimes you have rarely seen before. I am only mad Marvel moved the release date of the first issue, now I have to try and track it down.

Until we meet again.

Comics To Come

This Week: December 7, 2005

DC COMICS

HARD TIME SEASON TWO #1 $2.50- The sleeper hit of last year returns. And DC welcomes it with open arms. I was quite a late supporter of this series, I saw the trade at somewhere around the ten to twelve dollar mark, and I have to say it was a great purchase. Ethan Harrow is your typical cynical teen, only this guy is doing 50 to Life (the name of Season 1's first and only trade). Now we get to see what happens to young Ethan as he comes to grips with an entity that escapes him at night to correct the injustices that happen while he is locked up. I think what I enjoyed most about the trade was that the main character had it way to easy, I am anxious to see what progressed with issues 7-12 and also where this new series will go. If you see this on the rack and enjoy it, order more this will be a series that really needs the support.

MARVEL

FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN #3 $2.99- Here we go. 6 issues done, and six more to go. This starts off J. Michael Strazynski's 3-part finale. I have high hopes. JMS's endings have most of the time left more to be desired, but that ride has always (except for what he did to Gwen) been enjoyable. That all being said though, this is one time I wish I would have waited for the trades. (And even then probably only the second one).

MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #10 $2.50- I love this series. I love Sean McKeever. To me there should always be a Spidey title on the racks just like this one. These are just wonderful "done in one issue" stories, and yet it establishes it's own cues for those of us hoping to be long time readers. The problem with Marvel Age (a previous attempt)... is that it relied to heavily on big events... the key moments for Stan and Ditko when Spider-Man started, and copied the words with new art. So readers who remember or have read this are unimpressed and maybe put off buy the new package. And new readers (the few there were) were confused at the leaps that the series took, and by the idea that something was not quite right, and took their money elsewhere. New stories, new feel, classic fun... that is the way to go. And in the words of Marty McFly, "Your kids are gonna love it."

MARVEL TEAM-UP #15 $2.99- Alright here they come, cats and kittens. The loveable, sales-friendly, but ultimately forgotten heroes of the 90s. Darkhawk, Sleepwalker, Speedball... just to name a few, along with some very popular heroes newly created Arana, Gravity, and X-23 (again, just a few). These will be the folks that pull the big boys out of the fire... but can they do it, and maybe even make a name for themselves? This is another book that could use support and very much deserves it. I cannot stress enough that this is the series that can be enjoyed for fans new and old. If you want to dip your toe in the Marvel Universe, this is so spanning and yet so personal that it gives you the ability to get to know loads of characters in a short time. And if you are a fan from way back... it's a fun read, you can revisit characters that have long been neglected and keep up on the current universe without buying every book out there. It is more book for your buck, and there is never anything wrong with that.

NEW WARRIORS #6 (OF 6) $2.99- The end of a great mini. I was very sad to see this last issue was coming out. But this was a good way to test the waters on a very funny and quirky series. A team of heroes reunite, at the request of their former leader, and reluctantly decide to start a reality show: To Bring Super to Smalltown America. This fascinated me right off, because as a child I was quite distraught that I did not live in New York and so would never see Spidey. And so it is fun to see the bus breakdown in Wichita, Kansas. That and this is the series for people who are tired of reality TV. This nips it in the bud, by giving reality a healthy dose of escapism. And really, couldn't we all use that anyway?

SPIDER-MAN BLACK CAT EVIL THAT MEN DO #4 (OF 6) $2.99- I suppose on other blogs that do this you will see the long-winded moans of how long they waited. Not me, this has DD... 'nuff said. The fantastically drawn (if laughably unrealistically drawn) breasts are an added bonus.

ULTIMATES 2 #9 $2.99- This series has come to a boil. I mean this has just been kick ass rollercoaster type stories. This is the best thing I can say about it. If the Avengers had been written like this I would have loved the Avengers. And up until recently, I never touched an issue. You will come away from this book having strong opinions about each and every character. And you will be kicking and screaming to know what comes next. This is just no excuses, kick you in the teeth, and have you knowing you like it storytelling. This is the book that let's me know that a part of me will always feel guilty for being a Mark Millar fan.

This is probably the first time since I started this Comics To Come, that I will actually need these entries. It will be fun to see after I read these, hopefully somewhere around the middle of the month, if what I thought actually holds true. Oh, and I know my reviews seem fairly one-sided, most of the time, but there is a simple reason for that. I try to buy what I love. And I think great books should be praised as much as possible.

Comics Coming In February

Ah, February... the month of love. Love of Comics and this month is no different. There is alot that I want to spotlight. So without further delay: These books will be available for order the month of December and are scheduled to ship in February. Be sure to tell your local comics shop that you want a copy. I have linked to more info where I can.

Devil's Due Publishing (Publishers will be in bold)

KILLER 7 #1 32 pages, black and white, $2.95- based on a wildly wacky and suprisingly violent videogame. This comic is about an assassin with 7 split personalities. Each one is varied and completely different from the next. The real person is a wheelchair riding old man who in the back of his mind has to be wondering if this mission will be his last. I was more enthusiastic about the premise then I was in the game itself so I am glad to see this get comicbook treatment.

Atlantis Studios

The Adventures of Paula Peril 32 pages- This is Indiana Jones with a twist. If you like excitement in your comics than this should be a pretty good draw. I have been scouring the internet for the page I first saw about it. But with no luck. The writer got me psyched about this, and I his comments are liked directly above (scroll down when you get there). Ah well, if you feel like being adventurous in your comic buying head to the website linked above and check out the characters.

Claypool

Soulsearchers- Well, you have probably heard the pleas. Claypool is in some trouble. Now while I don't make it a point to support something just to save it. I do want to support something that looks good to me. And Peter David's powerful pun-filled parody on all things pop culture, is a perfectly passable example of such a product. (What that sort of thing worked for Stan Lee) Actually that is why I have decided to list indy titles first. One can always find a Marvel or DC book, but what if the book that comes next on the chopping block is that favorite title that you only get when you can afford?

Alias

ATOMIK MIKE #1 (32-pages, full-color monthly series)$3.50- This looks like genuine space-faring fun, with a bit of a twist. Space Raiders have been searching the galaxy looking for the next pile of loot. But what happens when the competion throws out a monkey wrench and turns the Captain (Mike) into a sapien of a more simian variety. Will the crew go bananas trying to turn Mike from a monkey back to a man. Ah who am I kidding... space and a monkey. 'Nuff said!

LIONS, TIGERS & BEARS TRADE PAPERBACK (offered again 112-pages, full-color trade paperback) $9.99- For those of you comic fans with kids you have probably heard of this series. I have read the first issue, and this is a well-written imaginative tale about a boy who moves from his hometown, and his only friends are four stuff animals, which his grandmother lovingly gave him. At night, however, the animals become his guardians. It's all ages fun as a boy adventures through new worlds, and it is artistically pleasing, with an animation style that is akin to some of the great family cartoons.

Archaia Studios Press

Mouse Guard #1- This looks like another delightful all-ages book. I highly recommend taking a peek at the preview I am linking to. The Mouse Guard follows three mice, who have to work together to keep a legacy that has been held for years. And a harmony that has existed just as long. I like these books because they show that the smallest creatures can have a big effect.


IDW PUBLISHING

TRANSFORMERS: BEAST WARS #1 32 pages, $2.99.- Pure nostalgia fueling this buy. I didn't like the transformers growing up. In fact, I didn't really like this show, but the characters were varied and exciting enough that it kept me watching the one part I did enjoy. Rat Trap. A snarky smart ass of a character who was never afraid to tell it like it was. I always love those characters. It is why Raphael was always my favorite character in the first cartoon series of TMNT (not the brooding pissed off version that came as a result of the movies) Rob Paulsen thanks for helping me to perfect my cutting wit.

FALLEN ANGEL #3 32 pages, $3.99.- Alright, I know it looks pricey, I do. But this is Peter David, this is fully painted interiors. This is dark, and magical, and mysterious. Oh yeah, and plenty of tit shots. That's right full frontal, and half sometimes backal I am sure. All I can say is if you see a preview... or leave a comment with Peter David (www.peterdavid.net) It is well worth a glance at the very least I think.

DARK HORSE COMICS

THE PERHAPANAUTS #4- For fans of the BPRD (from Hellboy) or even those who might become fans of Peter David's Soulsearchers, this is a similar vein. Paranormal investigators who ar quite paranormal themselves. Todd Dezago writing promises a quirky team dynamic, and hilarious storylines, and the artist's work seems to match quite well. Now, this is a four issue limited series, but I believe issues will be available through their site

STAR WARS: KNIGHTS OF THE OLD REPUBLIC/REBELLION 25 CENT FLIP BOOK - 25 cents this is where the phrase to good to pass up comes in. This will be two new stories for KTOR (written by the talented John Jackson Miller) and Rebellion. Which promises to please those already getting the books and the newcomers who might jump on. I am not a huge Star Wars fan but even the artist in me says this always has the potential to be beat up reference material. But for all you Star Wars fans this is a good choice, heck it is even good if know a guy who is a Star Wars fans... give a little geek love this February.

ASPEN COMICS

ASPEN SWIMSUIT SPECIAL #1(32 pages, $2.99, Feb. 22)- Um, this needs no explaining... what?


IMAGE COMICS

ROCKETO, VOL. 1: THE JOURNEY TO THE HIDDEN SEA TP(304 pages, b and w, $24.99) This is a pretty big price tag I know. But from what I have heard this series appeals to a lot of people. It has the epic feel of LOTR, along with the adventure of swashbuckling fun with a bit of a sci-fi twist. I will probably have to wait on this one as my budget is pretty tight.

FELL #6 (24 pages, $1.99, in stores on Feb. 14)- Alright no excuses! You want a good done in one story... this is it. You want deep, sophisticated story telling that keeps you invested... this is it. You want murder mystery with a sympathetic smart lead... this it. Great art and Great story... it's all here. Warren Ellis and Ben Templesmith. It's two bucks, ya cheap skate! Kick something to the curb and try a comic that leaves you feeling fat and happy, and your wallet fat and happy too.

And on that high note thus ends my Indy February picks. The links above will lead you to that particular companies solicits (most of the time). And while it may seem like it I did not list every company in existence, so keep your eyes peeled. Marvel and DC picks coming soon!

Marvelous Developments

So, I know some of you out there don't get the Marvel.com newsletter. Below are just a couple of exciting tidbits and features to come to the site. With still more on the way! I think you can get the newsletter by going to the Marvel site. Here are those snazzy features

Last week we asked you what you wanted to see on the new Marvel.com and you told us: Digital Comics!! Next week, Marvel.com launches our new digital comic reader with Marvel comics never before seen in digital form. See ya in 7! ~Long time Marvel.com visitors will remember this was a feature utilized quite well when the Ultimate Universe began, in fact I can remember having every comic available on my player, the catch then was that you had to be registered. For this new one I can almost bet there is a reasonable fee, but probably an even greater selection. I seem to recall at it's peak the old player had over 150 to 200 comics available to read~

Our first big announcement is our RSS feeds and Podcasts. Want to know when your favorite content on Marvel.com has been updated? Want to hear exclusive chats with the hottest writers and editors working on Marvel comics? Just subscribe to our feeds and you can stay up-to-date on all the latest Marvel news! ~This is just wicked cool. I hope they keep the podcasts lengthy. There is alot of people I could listen to for hours. Giggly Dan Slott in particular.~

Anyway, check out Marvel's efforts, I for one could support many more changes like this.

Who I am

I spent most of my life
on the the straight and narrow
with my blinders on
my soul was hollow

I tried to tempt fate
but I failed at that
I just looked at the world
and I turned my back

I was wallowing
following my point of view
And I'm hating
retracing every thing that I do

I'm not afraid to be who I am
I'm afraid I can't

Now I live my life
like it's not there at all
I take all my dreams
and I let them fall

I watch my boys
turn to men
saying, "Daddy, please try again."

I'm not afraid to be who they think I am
I'm afraid I can't


Copyright ©2005 Justin Karguth

Got up and went

So, here it is four a.m., and I am awake. Old habits die hard, but apparently the same can be said for new habits. I have been getting up at around four a.m. for the last three weeks. My wife has been working twelve hour shifts (something about inspections). And while that was supposed to have ended last awhile back, it looks now as though she does not know from day to day how long she will stay.

Well, today, I had the chance to sleep... and I had to pee. Hence the title, I even thought about putting (pee) in the title. It is also the last part to that, "My get up and go..." Anyway, I thought blogging might help, but to no avail. Ah well, it was going to be up at 3:00 tomorrow anyway. I am pretty sure the bags under my eyes could carry luggage. Ah well if any of you are up that early tomorrow... drop me a line.

here

Panel 2 Panel Reviews

All-Star Superman- Now this is what I like to see. Not quite what I expected from the All-Star books. But it is leaps above All-Star Batman (tall buildings above, in fact). Morrison offers up a quick origin, very quick, and then gets Superman doing what he does best, saving people. But it is by no means a basic hero story, the art sees to that. Now, I am not a Superman fan, in fact this is one of maybe an armful of Superman comics that I have read. The premise is both classic and engagingly original. Where Frank Miller disappointed, Morrison shines. Clear yet satisfying story, and truly unique twists. Oh, and be sure to read the epilogue, I almost missed it.

More reviews to come tomorrow. I promised this one to a friend.

What If...?

What if ... Charles Schulz were a Marvel fan?

This one just made me chuckle at 4 in the morning. Hoping it might do the same for whenever you wake up.

For more of these great strips: go here

Comics To Come

So, I have a day before my comics get here. I figured I might get this out there.

CAPTAIN UNIVERSE/ DAREDEVIL $2.99- I am not sure what to think of this. I really hope it is good. For those unfamiliar with Captain Universe, it is some sort of entity that enhances it's wearer. And as far as I remember, it is kind of wished by the wearer. Now as far as this "series" I think the Captain Universe entity is dying in some way. And so it is going from hero to hero, luckily I am only getting this issue. So I am crossing my fingers it works reasonably well just reading by itself.

DAREDEVIL FATHER #4 (OF 5) $2.99- I am really disliking this series. There is stuff happening, I will grant that. But I really don't feel like any of it means anything. And I know part of that is, the delays have lost me. This really could have been weaved along side Bendis' run, and now it feels like a very generic story. The only consistencies are Foggy and Matt. And in name only. I don't know... I look at this, and then I look at Daredevil: Redemption, and I just shake my head. Redemption is the way to write a mini-series that stands on it's own. Still I have no one to kick but myself, for buying Father.

EXILES #72 $2.99- With this issue starts the jump into the New Universe. Now for those of you who weren't here for me pimping Exiles: World Tour, well you are very lucky indeed. It is just nice to see these universes (Marvel revamps and such) get a nod to those fans and creators that were a part of it. And I love the aspect of Exiles, a "quantum leap" type team of heroes forced to jump worlds and fix aspects. And now they have broken from their missions to simply try to get home to their own worlds. Teammates hate and love and fight together, and their only common bond is that they were taken without choice from their families and loved ones.

FANTASTIC FOUR WEDDING SPECIAL $4.99- I am not an FF fan. I never have been, even when it was readily available at my school library. I remember just getting an issue if Spidey was on the cover. At the time I didn't think that it could be a link to the Marvel Universe for free, I just didn't want to read about them. And now, well because Karl Kesel is writing this issue it has become a must have, I am paying $5+ for an FF book! Sometimes you follow a writer you enjoy to a book you normally wouldn't, nothing wrong with supporting a real person over a character sometimes.

FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN #2 $2.99- Well, this is part four of Spider-Man: The Other (a twelve part Spidey crossover). And I am really rooting for this middle part. See, this crossover works like so, Peter David took the first three parts (crossing over Amazing, Marvel Knights, and FN Spider-Man) and now another writer will then take over the middle, and finally a last writer will tie the final three issues. With each writer coming back to Epilogue their own titles. Um, let me shorten this up LOL, wait for the trade, in the meantime stay away from Spidey for about a year while they play at keeping the books more cohesive. Thank goodness I started this cheaper service online ;^)

NEW WARRIORS #5 (OF 6) $2.99- This is a very funny series about a team of superheroes who start a reality TV series. Deciding that people who don't live in New York must need superheroes too. Anyway, a great bit of fun happens along the way, and there is the bigger mystery of what is going to keep them together.

PULSE #12 $2.99- Jessica has her baby! Okay... okay knowing the writer it won't be until the last page. But still pretty frekin' cool. I still wish this series was a bit more important in the scope of what purpose it holds, but having Gaydos on art makes it alot easier to love.

Better to have loved and lost...

Here there be mild SPOILERS about House of M #8 ... um... Aaaarrrrrr

Ok, you are going to think I am silly. I think I am silly. But I went through something tonight. I read House of M #8. And I am very sad. Let me preface this with some back story. When I read HoM #7, about a month ago, and it was revealed that before everything was returned to normal, "No more mutants!". Now I already knew that not all mutants would be gone, that there would be 198 of them in existence.

Big frekin' deal. I don't read X-books, rarely ever did. I just wanted HoM to be worth it. As we are taken back to everyone's return to the Marvel Universe, we find out that mutants are still alive and well, just powerless. A good move on Marvel's part, every character is somebody's favorite. Except me, mutants schmutants... or so I thought. Then... then out walked Iceman... I knew it was him instantly... he was covered in sweat. Sweat. Iceman does not sweat... his bodily functions pertaining to temperature don't exist. Oh god...

No! Not Bobby Drake... not Iceman. Fuck no... c'mon. He is still alive. Oh, that is a bunch of horse shit, he may as well not exist now, without powers Marvel is not going to use him. They sent my character into comic limbo. Your character... seriously? Four words... Spider-Man & His Amazing Friends. That's five words. No, the & is a symbol. Were you dropped on your head as a baby? No comment. That means "yes". I am mourning.

Sorry to spoil what I have, but I could not convey this otherwise. The Iceman does not cometh... Oh yeah, and pick up Marvel Team-Up #14, it does not disappoint.

A bit of digression

I will fully admit, I don't know exactly what that word means, I have gathered that it means something close to 'getting off topic'. So, that is how I will use it here. Actually probably not... but I am going to attempt it. For the month of November, I will be getting comics through my shop. So, I will still do the 'Comics to Come' or the 'Panel to Panel Reviews' on a weekly basis.

Following that I will be getting my comics through a highly recommended online service. It took much persuasion, a bit of heavy thinking. I suppose if some were to not have their shop. They would lose a sense of community. I would not. My wife has been making the trek into the shop for me, since there is no ramp. And could I go in, there would be no sense of community. Another thing is, I will completely be rid of is coming in week after week to find something not ordered, something I requested months in advance. Well with this site, they order when I place it, so I can order months in advance. If I didn't get something, then it is because I did not order... simple as that. Add to that... I saved $50! Which in my mind has me saying, yay $50 dollars more I can plan on getting LOL, but for the most part it will probably be saved. I am content buying what I do now.

Actually I fibbed up there, I am saving close to $30, but that is with some extras... bags and boards for everything. Twice a month shipping instead of monthly. Bottom line, if I wanted the same stuff I get from my shop, I save $50. I wanted to try some perks. Anyway, I won't pimp the site (yet), but I wanted people to know why there might not be many comic-related blogs from me after November. Ta.