Issue #0 of Snake Woman (created by Shekhar Kaphur) is written by Zeb Wells and illustrated by Michael Gaydos. This zero issue oddly enough was published after the first series concluded. As it stands though, at least by my first impression, it firmly sets itself as an excellent introduction story. Choosing to tell the legend and origin of the various Snake Women that have been, and how they came to be. I am a big fan of this kind of storytelling, I like tales that explore what has come before, that interests me. It can sometimes make for a jumbled mess, but at its best this sort of exploration adds to the enjoyment.
I have always been a fan of the vengeance seeking hero. The more raw the better. I think because at the core there is something highly relatable and somewhat noble about seeking to make things right. And there is a strong measure of envy in a direct approach. I do tend to draw the line at the overly gratuitous or just worn examples. Punisher comes to mind. And this pre-issue... while cold, methodical... downright chilling. There is something distinct about each Snakewoman, they each feel very personal, unique in their experience. Which leaves me with the impression that the first trade (out last week) will prove to be right up my alley. For 99 cents I would recommend tracking this down. If only for the not seen often enough art of Michael Gaydos.
More soon... daddy duties are calling.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Friday, June 29, 2007
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Books and Crannies
It is a time of literary abundance here at my humble abode. If only by good timing. I had my first library trip in a good long time about a month or so ago, I suppose. It was mostly a failure, I grabbed at all sorts of treasures... comic books, and novels and DVDs... and didn't get through one. Clearly my eyes were hungrier than... my eyes.
A library trip was made again, every book found and returned, and I was much more reserved in my selection. Three trades and a DVD. Thus far I have gone through two of the trades and am some ways into the third. I am pretty pleased with that. Then yesterday the flood gates opened and I received my monthly shipment from DCBS. I have even dabbled in that somewhat.
Then added to that was a trip to one of my old favorite comic shops. A tiny splurge, but at a great price it added up in the amount of items. And then I made a trip to the library and picked up one novel. Honestly, I didn't even want to overwhelm myself this time, but that is how it happened. Then, stupid fool that I am I have also had the desire to blog some of my finds.
All this and the usual day to day strains, and I am really swimming in delusion. Ah well, you might see me again soon. Or you might find that the next post will be about how I don't have anything to read.
A library trip was made again, every book found and returned, and I was much more reserved in my selection. Three trades and a DVD. Thus far I have gone through two of the trades and am some ways into the third. I am pretty pleased with that. Then yesterday the flood gates opened and I received my monthly shipment from DCBS. I have even dabbled in that somewhat.
Then added to that was a trip to one of my old favorite comic shops. A tiny splurge, but at a great price it added up in the amount of items. And then I made a trip to the library and picked up one novel. Honestly, I didn't even want to overwhelm myself this time, but that is how it happened. Then, stupid fool that I am I have also had the desire to blog some of my finds.
All this and the usual day to day strains, and I am really swimming in delusion. Ah well, you might see me again soon. Or you might find that the next post will be about how I don't have anything to read.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Now In Technicolor
Well, I have decided that with the new month of March here in full force, that I might start an attempt at blogging again. I would say something like it is fitting since my blog started in March a couple of years ago. But that is not it, truth be told this has been on my mind for some time. I suppose the smart person would prepare a bit, build up some entries so that there is no faltering, but this is for me, always has been. Maybe there will be more to reflect that.But for today it is business, as usual, with a comic-centric announcement. Spider-Man is swinging his way back to television, and I couldn't be happier. It has been a hell of a veritable decade without Marvel cartoons.
Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.And in true Marvel form, at least if memory serves me, this recent cartoon renaissance started with the FF. Granted it didn't get as much acclaim as the comic in the sixties, but if anything it was fitting. But now comes one of the most resilient heroes to make his mark. I have often stated that I love Spider-Man. And the reason is that through everything... constants remain. Some would let that dissuade. But to me those favorite characters are ones that you could have adored as a child... and you can come back and visit and still enjoy their company. And thankfully the people in charge of this new cartoon coming in (hopefully early) 2008, seem well aware that if it isn't broke, they shouldn't fuck with it. From the article via Newsarama:
"The new animated series picks up the original web-slinger’s mythology at the beginning of his hero’s journey…as a not-so-typical 16-year-old entering his junior year of high school. Having spent the summer engaging common criminals with his new-found powers, Peter Parker must conceal his secret identity while engaging a new level of terror – the multi-leveled pressures of teenage life at home and school while combating bigger, badder super-villains in the real world.
“Our goal is to reinterpret these great characters and concepts for our millennium,” Weisman said. “We’ll have plenty of resonant material for the Spider-Man fan, while engaging the Spider-Man novice with the same thrills we experienced when we were first exposed to the character. Our stories will appeal on multiple levels with plenty of eye-candy, action, humor and colorful characters for the youngest demographic balanced with extensive character development for ‘tweens, teens and adults.”
Now the long time reader of this blog (and yes there is one) will notice that Greg Weisman is mentioned. Which to me says quality. The man is very passionate about a lot of his projects, and he puts his heart into it. There is of course no sign of animation style. Or who will provide voices. But that has never been what I look for... if there is a quality story, I would be happy.
And a Stan Lee intro... well that would just be gravy.
Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.And in true Marvel form, at least if memory serves me, this recent cartoon renaissance started with the FF. Granted it didn't get as much acclaim as the comic in the sixties, but if anything it was fitting. But now comes one of the most resilient heroes to make his mark. I have often stated that I love Spider-Man. And the reason is that through everything... constants remain. Some would let that dissuade. But to me those favorite characters are ones that you could have adored as a child... and you can come back and visit and still enjoy their company. And thankfully the people in charge of this new cartoon coming in (hopefully early) 2008, seem well aware that if it isn't broke, they shouldn't fuck with it. From the article via Newsarama:
"The new animated series picks up the original web-slinger’s mythology at the beginning of his hero’s journey…as a not-so-typical 16-year-old entering his junior year of high school. Having spent the summer engaging common criminals with his new-found powers, Peter Parker must conceal his secret identity while engaging a new level of terror – the multi-leveled pressures of teenage life at home and school while combating bigger, badder super-villains in the real world.
“Our goal is to reinterpret these great characters and concepts for our millennium,” Weisman said. “We’ll have plenty of resonant material for the Spider-Man fan, while engaging the Spider-Man novice with the same thrills we experienced when we were first exposed to the character. Our stories will appeal on multiple levels with plenty of eye-candy, action, humor and colorful characters for the youngest demographic balanced with extensive character development for ‘tweens, teens and adults.”
Now the long time reader of this blog (and yes there is one) will notice that Greg Weisman is mentioned. Which to me says quality. The man is very passionate about a lot of his projects, and he puts his heart into it. There is of course no sign of animation style. Or who will provide voices. But that has never been what I look for... if there is a quality story, I would be happy.
And a Stan Lee intro... well that would just be gravy.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Friday, January 19, 2007
A More Current Selection
I am not sure I really needed a break from the free comics I got yesterday, but I had time on my hands, so I gladly took it. I got my shipment of current comics from dcbservice.com. And I have plowed right through them.
First up was an indy book called "The Lost Books of Eve". I was a little surprised by this title, I had read a review only a couple of days ago, that made this out to be some sort of crude smut. I really couldn't disagree more. In fact, it seemed quite tame to me. Like one of those religious cartoons that Charlton Heston always hosted (hey, Sundays make for damn boring TV watching). In fact, I would say that Josh Howard, artist and writer, probably showed as much or less then the cartoon I am referring to, I found it comical then, all the convenient nude cover up that would be found, and I find it comical now. Here is the review from Comicpants.com.
"The Lost Books of Eve #1 (Viper Comics): If you want the story of what happens between the verses in the Book of Genesis, told in a highly sexualised graphical format, The Lost Books of Eve is for you. The art and writing are your average fare for Josh Howard; either it’s your thing or it’s not. There’s no surprises here. The only thing that struck me, besides the expected slutification of The Bible, was the disappointing backgrounds. The backgrounds are mostly solid colors or merely two-color gradients, but periodically there are some hand-drawn backgrounds. Unfortunately, those are fairly disappointing as well. A weaker than average offering from Howard, but if you’re a fan, you might dig it anyways."
It is a pretty unoffensive story, and the journey seems like it will be more exciting. Still, it is all a shame really, I can't get no slutification.
Next up was another indy called "Toupydoops" which is a title that has grown on me alot. It is now up to issue 5 on its bimonthly schedule. This book stars a struggling comic book actor named Toupydoops. That's right a comic book actor, he literally auditions for parts in comics, and he had dreams of working for the Big Two. He gets shafted this issue, as his best friend gets a part that he has been anticipating... in alot of ways. There is a very classic exchange, but with this book it is so fun. It's like watching a quirky show that turns the conventional on its head just enough to be inspired. If you are a fan of comics, all sorts of comics... I cannot recommend this book enough. Although it is for the more adult crowd. If there is ever a trade you can bet the news would be all over this blog.
Then, I got to the mainstream in my pile. Runaways #23, which is the last issue before my big purge, I am going to have a hard time letting this one go. As it is not by choice at all. And worst of all I am not getting the big finale issue next month. I didn't think it would bother me, but then I got to the amazing cliffhanger and knew that I was fooling myself. Everything is coming together for some big sweeping changes to the book, it's like not having enough money to go to the big dance the night before you won the big game. (Considering I never did any of that I am going with the generic "big") Anyway, good stuff, sad to see it go, but as I said I was only giving it another month anway.
Next was Eisner Award Winner All-Star Superman. The best thing about this book, is that is makes all that wacky silver age Superman stuff not only plausible, but pretty damn cool. It always makes me want to whip out my cheap Showcase Superman Volume 1 that I have barely cracked open. Not my favorite issue of the bunch, but still continuing to impress me. No goodbye moping yet, thanks to delays I have one more issue of this.
On to Amazing Spider-Man, I went back and forth on whether to read this or Civil War #6, and then I realized I don't care that much, and dove right in. It is nice to see Spidey's head coming together, but it is going to cost him his family. In this issue Kingpin brought down the order, kill Spider-Man, and if he isn't there, kill whoever is, as long as the message is sent. Yet again, I can thank delays that this will continue to be shipped to me for sometime. It was pretty good.
Then came Civil War... the creme de la creme. Ok, not really, it was good. It even had a bit of that blood pumping factor that Mark Millar often brings out in me. But it was just a book that I was waiting to see what the end has to say, and that was pretty big, and good enough to get a bit of glee out of me. Though, had I a choice I would cut these off, and saved some of the other books that got cut by financial constraints.
Back to the indy offerings, "Who Killed Rich Johnston?" Wouldn't you like to know? I will say this Ed Brubaker, that sly bastard, ends up being the hero. Makes me wish I could meet him again and ask if he knew that was the case. When I met him at Mo-Kan Conspiracy he told me that he did not kill Rich, but not that he was the hero. So modest... and the only guy that can pull of the fedora look consistently.
The final book was Punisher War Journal. Which is a book that I wish was more of my style. It is written by Marvel newcomer Matt Fraction, and while it is paced well enough, and the art is nothing to sneeze at, I just don't care too much. Ah well, when it comes out Iron Fist can sit on my shelf proudly. If you aren't reading that you better just be broke like me. For the record I even like alot of the ideas in here... whatever is wrong with this book is on my end, I think.
Well, that be nearly all I had, aside from a trade and an Omnibus, both of which have been taken from me already, not that I have the patience for collected editions anyway. Have a good weekend.
First up was an indy book called "The Lost Books of Eve". I was a little surprised by this title, I had read a review only a couple of days ago, that made this out to be some sort of crude smut. I really couldn't disagree more. In fact, it seemed quite tame to me. Like one of those religious cartoons that Charlton Heston always hosted (hey, Sundays make for damn boring TV watching). In fact, I would say that Josh Howard, artist and writer, probably showed as much or less then the cartoon I am referring to, I found it comical then, all the convenient nude cover up that would be found, and I find it comical now. Here is the review from Comicpants.com.
"The Lost Books of Eve #1 (Viper Comics): If you want the story of what happens between the verses in the Book of Genesis, told in a highly sexualised graphical format, The Lost Books of Eve is for you. The art and writing are your average fare for Josh Howard; either it’s your thing or it’s not. There’s no surprises here. The only thing that struck me, besides the expected slutification of The Bible, was the disappointing backgrounds. The backgrounds are mostly solid colors or merely two-color gradients, but periodically there are some hand-drawn backgrounds. Unfortunately, those are fairly disappointing as well. A weaker than average offering from Howard, but if you’re a fan, you might dig it anyways."
It is a pretty unoffensive story, and the journey seems like it will be more exciting. Still, it is all a shame really, I can't get no slutification.
Next up was another indy called "Toupydoops" which is a title that has grown on me alot. It is now up to issue 5 on its bimonthly schedule. This book stars a struggling comic book actor named Toupydoops. That's right a comic book actor, he literally auditions for parts in comics, and he had dreams of working for the Big Two. He gets shafted this issue, as his best friend gets a part that he has been anticipating... in alot of ways. There is a very classic exchange, but with this book it is so fun. It's like watching a quirky show that turns the conventional on its head just enough to be inspired. If you are a fan of comics, all sorts of comics... I cannot recommend this book enough. Although it is for the more adult crowd. If there is ever a trade you can bet the news would be all over this blog.
Then, I got to the mainstream in my pile. Runaways #23, which is the last issue before my big purge, I am going to have a hard time letting this one go. As it is not by choice at all. And worst of all I am not getting the big finale issue next month. I didn't think it would bother me, but then I got to the amazing cliffhanger and knew that I was fooling myself. Everything is coming together for some big sweeping changes to the book, it's like not having enough money to go to the big dance the night before you won the big game. (Considering I never did any of that I am going with the generic "big") Anyway, good stuff, sad to see it go, but as I said I was only giving it another month anway.
Next was Eisner Award Winner All-Star Superman. The best thing about this book, is that is makes all that wacky silver age Superman stuff not only plausible, but pretty damn cool. It always makes me want to whip out my cheap Showcase Superman Volume 1 that I have barely cracked open. Not my favorite issue of the bunch, but still continuing to impress me. No goodbye moping yet, thanks to delays I have one more issue of this.
On to Amazing Spider-Man, I went back and forth on whether to read this or Civil War #6, and then I realized I don't care that much, and dove right in. It is nice to see Spidey's head coming together, but it is going to cost him his family. In this issue Kingpin brought down the order, kill Spider-Man, and if he isn't there, kill whoever is, as long as the message is sent. Yet again, I can thank delays that this will continue to be shipped to me for sometime. It was pretty good.
Then came Civil War... the creme de la creme. Ok, not really, it was good. It even had a bit of that blood pumping factor that Mark Millar often brings out in me. But it was just a book that I was waiting to see what the end has to say, and that was pretty big, and good enough to get a bit of glee out of me. Though, had I a choice I would cut these off, and saved some of the other books that got cut by financial constraints.
Back to the indy offerings, "Who Killed Rich Johnston?" Wouldn't you like to know? I will say this Ed Brubaker, that sly bastard, ends up being the hero. Makes me wish I could meet him again and ask if he knew that was the case. When I met him at Mo-Kan Conspiracy he told me that he did not kill Rich, but not that he was the hero. So modest... and the only guy that can pull of the fedora look consistently.
The final book was Punisher War Journal. Which is a book that I wish was more of my style. It is written by Marvel newcomer Matt Fraction, and while it is paced well enough, and the art is nothing to sneeze at, I just don't care too much. Ah well, when it comes out Iron Fist can sit on my shelf proudly. If you aren't reading that you better just be broke like me. For the record I even like alot of the ideas in here... whatever is wrong with this book is on my end, I think.
Well, that be nearly all I had, aside from a trade and an Omnibus, both of which have been taken from me already, not that I have the patience for collected editions anyway. Have a good weekend.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Five Free Comics (Part 1)
There was a wonderful little promotion (I hesitate to use the words "little promotion") where a comic retailer made the request for anyone to tell the story of their first comics, and get five free comics from the shop's discount comics room. Even with only 56 responses thus far (the promotion is going until Saturday) it is a very generous thing to do. Because not only were the owners doing this for patrons of their shop, but also mailing them out to schlubs like me. I was ecstatic to receive the package today. I have been feeling the length of the three week wait for this month's comics. Not to mention more than the week's share of normal stuff that goes on. So this was very well received.
I have to tell you it was an extra bonus to open the package, and the first comic was a DC title called "Scarlett" with a scantily clad redhead carrying a laughably large machine gun and firing away. I like my redheads, it was enough to wonder if the person who sent the comics read my diary first. A couple of other nice surprises were two Marvel UK books, one of those being an issue 1. It will be my starter issue, naturally. It is about the UK's own Supersoldier. Titled in a slightly Stan Leeish sort of obvious "Super Soldiers". Published in April of 1993 sporting two writers (twice as good right) Michael W. Bennent and Lee Stevens. Pencils by Andrew Currie. Inks by Rodney Ramos. Colors by Steve Whitaker. And (my favorite credit) Letters by Bambos!, that exclamation mark is in the credits, I promise. And EiC Paul Neary. Right off the bat I like the cover, cardstock, foil lettering. All very shiny and slick. There is a huge man, with a constipated grimace. He totes a large gun (and again laughably large) in his right hand, and a smaller gun in his left. In classic 90s fashion he is carrying so much you have to hold the surprise that he isn't just toppling over (maybe the gun is for balance?). I am hoping I can find this, and the other covers on comicbookdb.com. Off in the corner is US Agent... Cap obviously couldn't be bothered, though I am sure it is no great loss.
Straight into the comic there is a huge emergency in a lengthily named research centre in Orgley, England. A cryogenic chamber malfunction has caused total system shutdown, and the body inside is warming up fast. The two regular looking scientists call in the steroid brigade for a red alert. I am not even kidding about steroids... not only is the appearance there, there are also large hoses which seem to be strapped to all the soldiers' arms. It doesn't take long before somebody says, "Not another bleedin' drill!" which reminds me to turn on my best Dick Van Dyke ala Mary Poppins. The football team readies themselves running towards the cryogenics room. But the captive is already breaking down the door. Boom intro splash page... it's not too bad... a naked man with wires and green smoke surrounding bust through the reinforced door with only three words, "Where is he?" I begin to wonder if I could find this pose in Weapon X, as it almost looks like a shot from that minus Wolverine's claws. The guards seem overly surprised and scared, considering they knew a man was in there, and they have insanely large guns. And judging by the shadows, our Super Soldier really isn't packing much.
Oh, nevermind... the double page splash tells me quite differently. The scene is quite brutal, at least for the dentist all these soldiers see. With one giant blow bodies are flying in ever direction.
The one guy left with teeth, and still standing (lucky bastard) says, "He's a psycho! Shoot to kill!" I am desperate to nickname him 'Captain Obvious', but if he is even in the rest of the book, he looks like the rest of the guys. Cept for that boyish grin. As we move along, to a page with actual panels, I get to marvel at the Super Soldier's most obvious power, disappearing pants. The next few shots are various poses of punching and the soldiers falling like dominoes. At least the chatty fellow got socked in the mouth. I will tell you one thing I have learned thus far... large guns are useless. In this page we get in our Soldier's mind... he sees in red and he moves fast. That is being quoted straight from the captions in his head. He dispatches the final football player, and continues a nice chatty conversation in his head. Ah, he has found his kit. It's a sad moment... trust me if you saw this outfit you might be crying too.
It isn't long before more guards come to where Joseph Hauer (I read his name in his locker) is in the armory, getting dressed. They think they have him cornered, but then he blasts through the door with 40mm grenade launcher. Oh and it also has armor peircing uranium rounds. I gotta say he comes off as pretty smart, he uses the big gun. It almost replays like the last 5 pages except with explosions instead of his powerful fists and striking fighting stances. Then we cut rather abruptly to a redhead talking to a recording device and smoking a fag (they will get to that eventually I am sure) and somehow driving to boot. She thinks there is a fire and she wants to get a closer -- Uh oh, grenade explosion, interrupting crucial dialogue. Super Soldier gets in the car and tells her to drive and she agrees.
Another quick cut to the lengthily named committee for superhuman activities in Whithall, London. A group of stuffy suits and generals are discussing the escaped popsicle. I thought the comic was going to lose me with chatty folks covering their bums, but with a mention of Nuke, and his New York rampage, and an editor's note to see DD-Born Again to boot, I am back in. There is a little discussion about sending out army units and Sirs contacting other Sirs... and a "Quite Right" in response.
One of the heads of the project is informed of the escape of Super Soldier, unaware that he is being set up to be a scapegoat. He blames the escape on buying British instead of Japanese... I don't have a frame of reference, need to check out the cryogenics market. The scene ends with a largely built fellow asking to kill our leading man. And the villagers rejoiced. Oh no, and we cut to Washington DC... wow, everybody knows about this soldier... ah, referencing Nuke again, and asking for the aid of an american superhero. Ah, now we are somewhere in Yorkshire, where we learn the name of our redheaded captive. Sarah Wilde. She talks of her connection to the research centre, she is a reporter investigating the mysterious suicides of scientists working on the Super Soldiers. "Super Soldiers?" Super Soldier asks. "Yeah," she responds. "Fitter, faster, stronger. Like Superheroes but working for the military." Then he says, "Well, I must be one." Honestly, this exchange has me just giggling, he's gargantuan... carrying a small weapons' shipment. And this is surprising? Ah well, the army is waiting in full force just in time to cut off conversation.
Now he prepares himself by strapping on a helmet and saying macho things, he charges into battle with the words that strike fear and intimidate an army. "Come on! You wanna go!" Now it is a page of bodies, bullets, and explosions. Oh but with a shot of the reporter to break up the carnage from one page to the next. "Jeez, I am getting some great shots here, this story will make me or kill me! I guess I should have listened to my mother and gotten married!' This is so wrong... so wrong. It's mum... I should have listened to me mum.. *sigh* Blamity blam... oooh, one man... one helicopter... hmmm four panels.
Uh oh, apparently Sarah is concerned as Super Soldier shot the helicopter on top of himself... "Maybe he's dead, and I can get the hell out of here." No such luck, but we were both hoping the same thing. She marvels at how he can walk out of an explosion so massive. Sarah, this is Dynamic-Pose Man... we expect nothing less.
Super Soldier nearly kills Sarah, but then excuses that as a case of 'roid rage. She tells him she doesn't want to be killed by him or anyone else and then invites him back into the car. They go off to find the one scientist from the super soldier program who hasn't been killed. We cut back to our scapegoat, and his eager killer. They discuss the taking down of the army and the car of a reporter who works for the Guardian. They are worried the lefty journalist with a liking to conspiracy theories will expose everything. Scapegoat sends the eager killer to stop our duo before they reach that scientist. Oh, and he can have reinforcements. Yeah, he might need that.
Now, we get to the cameos of the american heroes. It's a quick one, that's for sure. And we cut to our odd couple now in Bradford, England. Where they knock on the door of our scientist... and he invites them in. He informs them that he knows Super Soldier but never expected to see him again. The reporter demands to know everything about the program. And when asked why S.S says he wants to fix his total amnesia... and that the scientist can help... let's not mention the impending death. Good call. Here comes the recap of Captain America... along with explanations of later failed attempts to create soldiers. The british began a super soldier program shortly after the FF and Avengers and other beings appeared. Before long a program was started as part of the "Black Budget". Things were delayed and set aside for various reasons, but in the late 70s the program for the super soldier was reactivated. Attempts were unsuccessful until Nuke was created. As it turns out Super Soldier doesn't need multi-colored drugs though, his body secretes the drugs through various engineered organs.
Oh, good heavens, there are few things worse then turning from pages of Chatty McScience, only to find even more awaiting you. Blah blah blah, the british government had six super soldiers. One of them became addicted to the rush produced by the 'red' drug. Super Soldier thinks he might have had to kill him. The program was definitely cancelled. And the other scientists were killed for not cooperating... but this one did. He offers up the name of the man who ran the Super Soldier program... but a pesky gunshot to the head interfered. There is happy go lucky killer and his band of reinforcements... I count five total... and now Super Soldier says they are in trouble. What??? Five guys... equal trouble! This makes my head hurt. Well, it is nearly midnight. And what have we learned?
That this is the kind of thing Mark Millar makes work. And god bless him for it.
I have to tell you it was an extra bonus to open the package, and the first comic was a DC title called "Scarlett" with a scantily clad redhead carrying a laughably large machine gun and firing away. I like my redheads, it was enough to wonder if the person who sent the comics read my diary first. A couple of other nice surprises were two Marvel UK books, one of those being an issue 1. It will be my starter issue, naturally. It is about the UK's own Supersoldier. Titled in a slightly Stan Leeish sort of obvious "Super Soldiers". Published in April of 1993 sporting two writers (twice as good right) Michael W. Bennent and Lee Stevens. Pencils by Andrew Currie. Inks by Rodney Ramos. Colors by Steve Whitaker. And (my favorite credit) Letters by Bambos!, that exclamation mark is in the credits, I promise. And EiC Paul Neary. Right off the bat I like the cover, cardstock, foil lettering. All very shiny and slick. There is a huge man, with a constipated grimace. He totes a large gun (and again laughably large) in his right hand, and a smaller gun in his left. In classic 90s fashion he is carrying so much you have to hold the surprise that he isn't just toppling over (maybe the gun is for balance?). I am hoping I can find this, and the other covers on comicbookdb.com. Off in the corner is US Agent... Cap obviously couldn't be bothered, though I am sure it is no great loss.
Straight into the comic there is a huge emergency in a lengthily named research centre in Orgley, England. A cryogenic chamber malfunction has caused total system shutdown, and the body inside is warming up fast. The two regular looking scientists call in the steroid brigade for a red alert. I am not even kidding about steroids... not only is the appearance there, there are also large hoses which seem to be strapped to all the soldiers' arms. It doesn't take long before somebody says, "Not another bleedin' drill!" which reminds me to turn on my best Dick Van Dyke ala Mary Poppins. The football team readies themselves running towards the cryogenics room. But the captive is already breaking down the door. Boom intro splash page... it's not too bad... a naked man with wires and green smoke surrounding bust through the reinforced door with only three words, "Where is he?" I begin to wonder if I could find this pose in Weapon X, as it almost looks like a shot from that minus Wolverine's claws. The guards seem overly surprised and scared, considering they knew a man was in there, and they have insanely large guns. And judging by the shadows, our Super Soldier really isn't packing much.
Oh, nevermind... the double page splash tells me quite differently. The scene is quite brutal, at least for the dentist all these soldiers see. With one giant blow bodies are flying in ever direction.
The one guy left with teeth, and still standing (lucky bastard) says, "He's a psycho! Shoot to kill!" I am desperate to nickname him 'Captain Obvious', but if he is even in the rest of the book, he looks like the rest of the guys. Cept for that boyish grin. As we move along, to a page with actual panels, I get to marvel at the Super Soldier's most obvious power, disappearing pants. The next few shots are various poses of punching and the soldiers falling like dominoes. At least the chatty fellow got socked in the mouth. I will tell you one thing I have learned thus far... large guns are useless. In this page we get in our Soldier's mind... he sees in red and he moves fast. That is being quoted straight from the captions in his head. He dispatches the final football player, and continues a nice chatty conversation in his head. Ah, he has found his kit. It's a sad moment... trust me if you saw this outfit you might be crying too.
It isn't long before more guards come to where Joseph Hauer (I read his name in his locker) is in the armory, getting dressed. They think they have him cornered, but then he blasts through the door with 40mm grenade launcher. Oh and it also has armor peircing uranium rounds. I gotta say he comes off as pretty smart, he uses the big gun. It almost replays like the last 5 pages except with explosions instead of his powerful fists and striking fighting stances. Then we cut rather abruptly to a redhead talking to a recording device and smoking a fag (they will get to that eventually I am sure) and somehow driving to boot. She thinks there is a fire and she wants to get a closer -- Uh oh, grenade explosion, interrupting crucial dialogue. Super Soldier gets in the car and tells her to drive and she agrees.
Another quick cut to the lengthily named committee for superhuman activities in Whithall, London. A group of stuffy suits and generals are discussing the escaped popsicle. I thought the comic was going to lose me with chatty folks covering their bums, but with a mention of Nuke, and his New York rampage, and an editor's note to see DD-Born Again to boot, I am back in. There is a little discussion about sending out army units and Sirs contacting other Sirs... and a "Quite Right" in response.
One of the heads of the project is informed of the escape of Super Soldier, unaware that he is being set up to be a scapegoat. He blames the escape on buying British instead of Japanese... I don't have a frame of reference, need to check out the cryogenics market. The scene ends with a largely built fellow asking to kill our leading man. And the villagers rejoiced. Oh no, and we cut to Washington DC... wow, everybody knows about this soldier... ah, referencing Nuke again, and asking for the aid of an american superhero. Ah, now we are somewhere in Yorkshire, where we learn the name of our redheaded captive. Sarah Wilde. She talks of her connection to the research centre, she is a reporter investigating the mysterious suicides of scientists working on the Super Soldiers. "Super Soldiers?" Super Soldier asks. "Yeah," she responds. "Fitter, faster, stronger. Like Superheroes but working for the military." Then he says, "Well, I must be one." Honestly, this exchange has me just giggling, he's gargantuan... carrying a small weapons' shipment. And this is surprising? Ah well, the army is waiting in full force just in time to cut off conversation.
Now he prepares himself by strapping on a helmet and saying macho things, he charges into battle with the words that strike fear and intimidate an army. "Come on! You wanna go!" Now it is a page of bodies, bullets, and explosions. Oh but with a shot of the reporter to break up the carnage from one page to the next. "Jeez, I am getting some great shots here, this story will make me or kill me! I guess I should have listened to my mother and gotten married!' This is so wrong... so wrong. It's mum... I should have listened to me mum.. *sigh* Blamity blam... oooh, one man... one helicopter... hmmm four panels.
Uh oh, apparently Sarah is concerned as Super Soldier shot the helicopter on top of himself... "Maybe he's dead, and I can get the hell out of here." No such luck, but we were both hoping the same thing. She marvels at how he can walk out of an explosion so massive. Sarah, this is Dynamic-Pose Man... we expect nothing less.
Super Soldier nearly kills Sarah, but then excuses that as a case of 'roid rage. She tells him she doesn't want to be killed by him or anyone else and then invites him back into the car. They go off to find the one scientist from the super soldier program who hasn't been killed. We cut back to our scapegoat, and his eager killer. They discuss the taking down of the army and the car of a reporter who works for the Guardian. They are worried the lefty journalist with a liking to conspiracy theories will expose everything. Scapegoat sends the eager killer to stop our duo before they reach that scientist. Oh, and he can have reinforcements. Yeah, he might need that.
Now, we get to the cameos of the american heroes. It's a quick one, that's for sure. And we cut to our odd couple now in Bradford, England. Where they knock on the door of our scientist... and he invites them in. He informs them that he knows Super Soldier but never expected to see him again. The reporter demands to know everything about the program. And when asked why S.S says he wants to fix his total amnesia... and that the scientist can help... let's not mention the impending death. Good call. Here comes the recap of Captain America... along with explanations of later failed attempts to create soldiers. The british began a super soldier program shortly after the FF and Avengers and other beings appeared. Before long a program was started as part of the "Black Budget". Things were delayed and set aside for various reasons, but in the late 70s the program for the super soldier was reactivated. Attempts were unsuccessful until Nuke was created. As it turns out Super Soldier doesn't need multi-colored drugs though, his body secretes the drugs through various engineered organs.
Oh, good heavens, there are few things worse then turning from pages of Chatty McScience, only to find even more awaiting you. Blah blah blah, the british government had six super soldiers. One of them became addicted to the rush produced by the 'red' drug. Super Soldier thinks he might have had to kill him. The program was definitely cancelled. And the other scientists were killed for not cooperating... but this one did. He offers up the name of the man who ran the Super Soldier program... but a pesky gunshot to the head interfered. There is happy go lucky killer and his band of reinforcements... I count five total... and now Super Soldier says they are in trouble. What??? Five guys... equal trouble! This makes my head hurt. Well, it is nearly midnight. And what have we learned?
That this is the kind of thing Mark Millar makes work. And god bless him for it.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
B-Log Entry
This was too cute not to post. It is from a site (I think) called Lunchnotes. An artist I had the pleasure to meet at a con before Thanksgiving, but after Halloween (um... not important) named Chris Samnee, does these delightful notes for his wife and packs them with her lunch. Hence the name. Anyway, I just wanted to post a few.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
We Live Again!
Well, I just received and read Disney's Gargoyles issue #2, and thought I might give my opinion and a link to (probably) the one review out there. There is a certain disjointedness to this issue, a large part of that is due to the end of the cartoon series not being available, and having to piece together things from memory. Some of it is also from having to tie up an issue and give nods to more of the cast.
Still the feeling of the original cartoon cannot be denied. The feeling that something is building is also quite prevalent. The dialogue is still spot on and I suspect that will never change. The art I still find lacking, but only in certain panels, and at certain points. It is still very crisp, and true to the characters.
At the end of the issue the creator professed his apologies at their being only two issues in a five (or six) month period on a bimonthly book. But I am quite ready for the next issue, as that is where the original stories take off, the first two issues were recap of that ending. It is hard to say if it was a poor job or not, as I haven't seen those episodes in ten years. There were a lot of other good issues to come out in the last two weeks. Probably the one I will begin next is issue #1 of the Spirit, which should have come out on my birthday. Have a safe and happy holiday! And don't forget issue #3 should be out soon, if you like medieval fantasy in a modern setting I cannot recommend this book enough. I am probably most anxious for issue 6 since that delves into King Arthur.
The review mentioned above can be found here.
My thoughts on issue 1 can be found here.
Still the feeling of the original cartoon cannot be denied. The feeling that something is building is also quite prevalent. The dialogue is still spot on and I suspect that will never change. The art I still find lacking, but only in certain panels, and at certain points. It is still very crisp, and true to the characters.
At the end of the issue the creator professed his apologies at their being only two issues in a five (or six) month period on a bimonthly book. But I am quite ready for the next issue, as that is where the original stories take off, the first two issues were recap of that ending. It is hard to say if it was a poor job or not, as I haven't seen those episodes in ten years. There were a lot of other good issues to come out in the last two weeks. Probably the one I will begin next is issue #1 of the Spirit, which should have come out on my birthday. Have a safe and happy holiday! And don't forget issue #3 should be out soon, if you like medieval fantasy in a modern setting I cannot recommend this book enough. I am probably most anxious for issue 6 since that delves into King Arthur.
The review mentioned above can be found here.
My thoughts on issue 1 can be found here.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Friday, November 24, 2006
Great Site... Bad Interface
This site is called Com-Mix and for the most part I think it a great idea. Several indy comic artists gave permission to have their images used, and people can cut and paste their own strips. It really works out quite well in the creating process, you can resize and flip and rotate and overlap and such. For instance the TV in the above is actually the top of a cellphone made rather large. As I said, I couldn't be happier when creating. If I could make one more addition it would be thought bubbles. As you can see from Panel 2.
There is an assortment of art from nearly 20 artists. Quite varied in style. Now if only it all worked. On this strip it just simply will not save the strip. I don't know if perhaps there is a limit on strips one can do. That could be I suppose.
And the strip you will see below is my first attempt. Which is actually uploaded to the site ten times. Not really intentional on my part. I was simply trying to edit the background into the second panel, it was not showing up when I would save it. And the strip just was not working for me blank. Anyway, since it refuses to work today, I figured I would just put my creations here and give some links. I hope someone out there enjoys it too.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
How Can This Be Legal?
There is something to be said for morals, and as an extension of that, the laws we build that allow as a very strict societal compass that we follow. And yet there is always that grey area. And there are a lot of factors that go along with that. Boston Legal explores all the absolute truths and turns them on their head. And while it does so in a, more often than not, over-the-top fashion. It nonetheless succeeds in shaking those moral grounds that we can sometimes stand a bit to firmly on.
I think in showing the more extreme situations (and in the case of (William Shatner's)Denny Crane somewhere far beyond that). I think it allows for a different point of view. In all of the silliness, in all of the inside nods... Someone is trying to tell us to look beyond what we know. To think past what we have been taught. Even if it only opens us up just a bit more.
So, what was so profound in this particular episode I watched? Sex dolls and surrogates. Come on, how else were they going to get my attention?
Oh, and just to tie this back to comics: Peter David wrote about the Season Premiere here, and there is a nice article showing the similarities between Boston Legal and She-Hulk, fans of both or either should give it a look here.
I think in showing the more extreme situations (and in the case of (William Shatner's)Denny Crane somewhere far beyond that). I think it allows for a different point of view. In all of the silliness, in all of the inside nods... Someone is trying to tell us to look beyond what we know. To think past what we have been taught. Even if it only opens us up just a bit more.
So, what was so profound in this particular episode I watched? Sex dolls and surrogates. Come on, how else were they going to get my attention?
Oh, and just to tie this back to comics: Peter David wrote about the Season Premiere here, and there is a nice article showing the similarities between Boston Legal and She-Hulk, fans of both or either should give it a look here.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Monday, August 28, 2006
Comics Coming (on Friday)
SHIPPING THIS WEEK: AUGUST 30, 2006
DARK HORSE COMICS
GREMLINS HC $12.95- The problem with preordering (one of few) is that by the time I go to write out a blog entry, it is quite likely that I have forgotten key details of some things I ordered. This is one of those times. Still, a man is only as good as his internet connection. "The Gremlins is the story of Gus, a British World War II fighter pilot, who during the Battle of Britain turned to look out on the wing of his plane only to see an amazing sight: a little man, no more than six inches tall with horns growing from his head, drilling a hole in the plane's wing. Gus was the first man to ever see a Gremlin, and what happened after that would change the war, and the world, forever."
Now the reason I was intrigued by this book is that it reminded me of the tiny little gremlin that terrorized Bugs Bunny. Even looking at the cover now there is a strong similiarity in design. But there is Walt Disney's signature/logo slapped on the book. Anyway, should be a nice edition to have all the same, and the price is right.
DC COMICS
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #5 $2.99- Well we have almost reached the halfway point to the Grant Morrison run on this series. And I have to say, I really enjoy this book. It is quirky and adventurous with wild ideas and classic scenarios. And it has reaffirmed that this is probably just the right amount of Superman for me.
JUSTICE #7 (OF 12) $3.50- Another quality series by DC. And yet not tied to anything currently. Which might be why I like it so much. It stands alone, yet is probably filled with bits for the seasoned reader. The art of Alex Ross and the story by Jim Krueger have been worth the wait. It is too soon to tell if this will be a trade worth buying, though it certainly seems to me that it would read even better that way. If you are a fan of the ensemble cast in an epic tale with more character then clashes... this is a good one.
MARVEL COMICS
CIVIL WAR YOUNG AVENGERS & RUNAWAYS #2 (OF 4) $2.99- I hope I don't end up feeling like this series has been a waste of money. As it would be one of the first Civil War tie-ins that I have felt this way about. I don't know if Runaways or (when it returns) Young Avengers are hurting for new readers. But I would be surprised if this has pulled anyone in. Brian K. Vaughan is tying into events from this series in the regular Runaways title (after Civil War), so maybe that is a good sign.
KABUKI #7 (MR) $2.99- How sweet it is! Kabuki returns to my doorstep. The end of the first arc. I highly expect big things... like my actually understanding even less then I do. This is the kind of series that you can probably pull as many different reactions from as there are readers. If and when the trade comes, I cannot recommend it enough. It is a wonderful journey into self discovery.
SHE-HULK 2 #11 $2.99- Oh, it is on now. Jen stands between her husband, Man-Wolf... and his prey (and wannabe husband) Pug. It is anybody's guess what happens next. Is She-Hulk under a spell? Will the bite Pug received turn him into a wolf too? Can the Man-Wolf tinkle on the paper?
X-FACTOR #10 $2.99- Layla knows things. That is all I know. Peter David is crafting quite a few mysteries here, I will never know how he does so much. I cannot recommend his books enough. And the art while fluctuating always keeps a solidly dark feel. It's like a enigma wrapped in a riddle and covered in caramel.
IDW COMICS
COBB OFF THE LEASH #3 $3.99- The return of Dirk Squarejaw has been a long time coming. The ever-resourceful, rough and tough, take no bullsh** while taking out bad guys hero. There is alot that is adrenaline candy in this book, alot of surface storytelling. But there is alot to be said for those stories. Sometimes you just need something fun.
CSI DYING IN THE GUTTERS #1 $3.99- Speaking of fun. One of the most popular TV series tackles the case of one of the comic industries least liked gossip monger. Follow the death of Rich Johnston with cameos from all sort of comic pros.
FALLEN ANGEL IDW #8 (MR) $3.99- Yet again another Peter David penned comic book. And as it says in the previous comments section this book is on a quality level and only getting better. An expertly crafted world where the characters operate in an area of grey, though the stakes couldn't be higher.
MERCHANDISE
ULTIMATES TOMORROW MEN MMPB (RES) $7.99- The high octane Ultimates make their prose novel debut. I am very excited about the resurgence of original Marvel novels coming out. The biggest one thus far has to be an upcoming Wolverine novel written by David Mack in October.
DARK HORSE COMICS
GREMLINS HC $12.95- The problem with preordering (one of few) is that by the time I go to write out a blog entry, it is quite likely that I have forgotten key details of some things I ordered. This is one of those times. Still, a man is only as good as his internet connection. "The Gremlins is the story of Gus, a British World War II fighter pilot, who during the Battle of Britain turned to look out on the wing of his plane only to see an amazing sight: a little man, no more than six inches tall with horns growing from his head, drilling a hole in the plane's wing. Gus was the first man to ever see a Gremlin, and what happened after that would change the war, and the world, forever."
Now the reason I was intrigued by this book is that it reminded me of the tiny little gremlin that terrorized Bugs Bunny. Even looking at the cover now there is a strong similiarity in design. But there is Walt Disney's signature/logo slapped on the book. Anyway, should be a nice edition to have all the same, and the price is right.
DC COMICS
ALL STAR SUPERMAN #5 $2.99- Well we have almost reached the halfway point to the Grant Morrison run on this series. And I have to say, I really enjoy this book. It is quirky and adventurous with wild ideas and classic scenarios. And it has reaffirmed that this is probably just the right amount of Superman for me.
JUSTICE #7 (OF 12) $3.50- Another quality series by DC. And yet not tied to anything currently. Which might be why I like it so much. It stands alone, yet is probably filled with bits for the seasoned reader. The art of Alex Ross and the story by Jim Krueger have been worth the wait. It is too soon to tell if this will be a trade worth buying, though it certainly seems to me that it would read even better that way. If you are a fan of the ensemble cast in an epic tale with more character then clashes... this is a good one.
MARVEL COMICS
CIVIL WAR YOUNG AVENGERS & RUNAWAYS #2 (OF 4) $2.99- I hope I don't end up feeling like this series has been a waste of money. As it would be one of the first Civil War tie-ins that I have felt this way about. I don't know if Runaways or (when it returns) Young Avengers are hurting for new readers. But I would be surprised if this has pulled anyone in. Brian K. Vaughan is tying into events from this series in the regular Runaways title (after Civil War), so maybe that is a good sign.
KABUKI #7 (MR) $2.99- How sweet it is! Kabuki returns to my doorstep. The end of the first arc. I highly expect big things... like my actually understanding even less then I do. This is the kind of series that you can probably pull as many different reactions from as there are readers. If and when the trade comes, I cannot recommend it enough. It is a wonderful journey into self discovery.
SHE-HULK 2 #11 $2.99- Oh, it is on now. Jen stands between her husband, Man-Wolf... and his prey (and wannabe husband) Pug. It is anybody's guess what happens next. Is She-Hulk under a spell? Will the bite Pug received turn him into a wolf too? Can the Man-Wolf tinkle on the paper?
X-FACTOR #10 $2.99- Layla knows things. That is all I know. Peter David is crafting quite a few mysteries here, I will never know how he does so much. I cannot recommend his books enough. And the art while fluctuating always keeps a solidly dark feel. It's like a enigma wrapped in a riddle and covered in caramel.
IDW COMICS
COBB OFF THE LEASH #3 $3.99- The return of Dirk Squarejaw has been a long time coming. The ever-resourceful, rough and tough, take no bullsh** while taking out bad guys hero. There is alot that is adrenaline candy in this book, alot of surface storytelling. But there is alot to be said for those stories. Sometimes you just need something fun.
CSI DYING IN THE GUTTERS #1 $3.99- Speaking of fun. One of the most popular TV series tackles the case of one of the comic industries least liked gossip monger. Follow the death of Rich Johnston with cameos from all sort of comic pros.
FALLEN ANGEL IDW #8 (MR) $3.99- Yet again another Peter David penned comic book. And as it says in the previous comments section this book is on a quality level and only getting better. An expertly crafted world where the characters operate in an area of grey, though the stakes couldn't be higher.
MERCHANDISE
ULTIMATES TOMORROW MEN MMPB (RES) $7.99- The high octane Ultimates make their prose novel debut. I am very excited about the resurgence of original Marvel novels coming out. The biggest one thus far has to be an upcoming Wolverine novel written by David Mack in October.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Comics to Come (in a week)
Shipping This Week: AUGUST 23, 2006
DC COMICS
BATMAN #656 $2.99- Grant Morrison continues his story of Batman with some huge changes, and the promise of a return to simpler times. While not my favorite (I am enjoying Paul Dini's run on Detective a bit more). I have to say that this premise has me intrigued. At the very least I will have an enjoyable issue to read. But in a few months, I will have cut off both titles. Bye bye Dark Knight.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #1 $3.99- I have to admit that the writer is the only reason I am getting this title. But it is Brad Meltzer of Identity Crisis fame. I enjoyed that book very much. It was quite busy with all sorts of characters and threads, but I think it only made me invest more. And while I remember some people being a bit put off by the ending, it was no less plausible to me. Anyway, I can't wait to catch up with this writer again, and find a title that keeps me in DC waters.
MARVEL COMICS
DAREDEVIL #88 $2.99- Wow if you are not getting this, you are missing a phenominal run. It is as if there is deja vu again, and the title of Daredevil is breaking new ground. Setting itself firmly with a great writer and artist team with a distinct direction all it's own. For those of who have been reading, it has been a great time to be a DD fan.
ETERNALS #3 (OF 6) $3.99- Speaking of a writer being the main draw. I can't say I would be getting Eternals if it were written by anyone else. Neil Gaiman is crafting a grand return for this secret sect of the Marvel U. It feels fresh and new, and while nodding at previous continuity (and often embracing) as a new reader I had no trouble keeping up. This one is worth the extra dollar.
HEROES FOR HIRE #1 CW $2.99- I am very anxious for this book. I am worried it will be one of those that failed to impress me, or that I might regret taking a chance on. But so far it looks like it will be alot of fun. A band of heroes come together with a common goal... money. Yet with the first job being something as controversial as taking a side in Civil War will everyone have qtheir eye on the prize?
NEW AVENGERS #23 CW $2.99- I hate to like this book, I really do. To me, the writer is at his best with one character. This book has a whole slew of them. Each time I find myself bored to tears as each hero seemingly lines up to take a punch at the villian of the week... in a couple of months there always seems to be the issue that focuses on one member, and brings me back. With Civil War it has been a series of single character focus. First Captain America, then Luke Cage and Jessica Jones (my fav)... and so it will continue, I think after Civil War though, I might be done. I was going issues at a time without bothering to read this book, and that cannot be a good sign.
SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE #9 $2.99- I love the story lines (mostly in TV and movies) where two characters can't seem to hit it off. One falls in love and the other moves on, then mistakes are realised but too little too late. There is just that sympathy that can be found on both sides, and it is easily relatable. Not to mention it just keeps you rooting and on the edge of your seat.
ULTIMATES ANNUAL #2 $3.99- I liked last year's Ulitimates annual quite a bit. It added to the main title, and was quite entertaining on its own. But there are many differences between this year and last. Last year had series writer Mark Millar at the helm, this year sees relative newcomer to comics Charlie Huston come onboard. And as my good friend helped me to realise, beyond this Huston is doing nothing else with the title. So, it already feels quite disconnected. I have not heard too many good things about this issue, but sometimes that brings my expectation down enough to make me say, "This isn't that bad."
WOLVERINE #45 CW $2.99- I am liking this title. Wolverine taking on the villian of Civil War... the reason that the Marvel Universe is at odds. And he is finding much more than he bargained for. I think if a writer wants to have that invincible character, that character that will always be mad enough, strong enough, determined enough, or crazy enough to do something, they need look no further than Wolverine. He is the ultimate fan fiction character.
COMICS
FALLEN ANGEL IDW VOL 1 TP $19.99- I have these issues, but I still wanted to recommend this trade. Peter David has taken his creation to new levels at IDW, and I think IDW is happy to have him. Especially considering Fallen Angel was supposed to be a mini and got extended to an ongoing. The art of J K Woodward is absolutely breathtaking, I am surprised the artist took to this character and to this world with such a masterful perspective. This title is entertaining, and intriguing and challenging. If I saw this trade sitting on the shelf I would be hardpressed to pass it up. I can't often say that about comics I already own.
So, there you go... just in time for you all to have already bought all your comics. (Both of you) Sadly, I won't get these until next week Friday. So, if you want to gloat use spoilers.
DC COMICS
BATMAN #656 $2.99- Grant Morrison continues his story of Batman with some huge changes, and the promise of a return to simpler times. While not my favorite (I am enjoying Paul Dini's run on Detective a bit more). I have to say that this premise has me intrigued. At the very least I will have an enjoyable issue to read. But in a few months, I will have cut off both titles. Bye bye Dark Knight.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #1 $3.99- I have to admit that the writer is the only reason I am getting this title. But it is Brad Meltzer of Identity Crisis fame. I enjoyed that book very much. It was quite busy with all sorts of characters and threads, but I think it only made me invest more. And while I remember some people being a bit put off by the ending, it was no less plausible to me. Anyway, I can't wait to catch up with this writer again, and find a title that keeps me in DC waters.
MARVEL COMICS
DAREDEVIL #88 $2.99- Wow if you are not getting this, you are missing a phenominal run. It is as if there is deja vu again, and the title of Daredevil is breaking new ground. Setting itself firmly with a great writer and artist team with a distinct direction all it's own. For those of who have been reading, it has been a great time to be a DD fan.
ETERNALS #3 (OF 6) $3.99- Speaking of a writer being the main draw. I can't say I would be getting Eternals if it were written by anyone else. Neil Gaiman is crafting a grand return for this secret sect of the Marvel U. It feels fresh and new, and while nodding at previous continuity (and often embracing) as a new reader I had no trouble keeping up. This one is worth the extra dollar.
HEROES FOR HIRE #1 CW $2.99- I am very anxious for this book. I am worried it will be one of those that failed to impress me, or that I might regret taking a chance on. But so far it looks like it will be alot of fun. A band of heroes come together with a common goal... money. Yet with the first job being something as controversial as taking a side in Civil War will everyone have qtheir eye on the prize?
NEW AVENGERS #23 CW $2.99- I hate to like this book, I really do. To me, the writer is at his best with one character. This book has a whole slew of them. Each time I find myself bored to tears as each hero seemingly lines up to take a punch at the villian of the week... in a couple of months there always seems to be the issue that focuses on one member, and brings me back. With Civil War it has been a series of single character focus. First Captain America, then Luke Cage and Jessica Jones (my fav)... and so it will continue, I think after Civil War though, I might be done. I was going issues at a time without bothering to read this book, and that cannot be a good sign.
SPIDER-MAN LOVES MARY JANE #9 $2.99- I love the story lines (mostly in TV and movies) where two characters can't seem to hit it off. One falls in love and the other moves on, then mistakes are realised but too little too late. There is just that sympathy that can be found on both sides, and it is easily relatable. Not to mention it just keeps you rooting and on the edge of your seat.
ULTIMATES ANNUAL #2 $3.99- I liked last year's Ulitimates annual quite a bit. It added to the main title, and was quite entertaining on its own. But there are many differences between this year and last. Last year had series writer Mark Millar at the helm, this year sees relative newcomer to comics Charlie Huston come onboard. And as my good friend helped me to realise, beyond this Huston is doing nothing else with the title. So, it already feels quite disconnected. I have not heard too many good things about this issue, but sometimes that brings my expectation down enough to make me say, "This isn't that bad."
WOLVERINE #45 CW $2.99- I am liking this title. Wolverine taking on the villian of Civil War... the reason that the Marvel Universe is at odds. And he is finding much more than he bargained for. I think if a writer wants to have that invincible character, that character that will always be mad enough, strong enough, determined enough, or crazy enough to do something, they need look no further than Wolverine. He is the ultimate fan fiction character.
COMICS
FALLEN ANGEL IDW VOL 1 TP $19.99- I have these issues, but I still wanted to recommend this trade. Peter David has taken his creation to new levels at IDW, and I think IDW is happy to have him. Especially considering Fallen Angel was supposed to be a mini and got extended to an ongoing. The art of J K Woodward is absolutely breathtaking, I am surprised the artist took to this character and to this world with such a masterful perspective. This title is entertaining, and intriguing and challenging. If I saw this trade sitting on the shelf I would be hardpressed to pass it up. I can't often say that about comics I already own.
So, there you go... just in time for you all to have already bought all your comics. (Both of you) Sadly, I won't get these until next week Friday. So, if you want to gloat use spoilers.
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