Comics! The Crow #1

The Crow #1

Written by John Shirley
Art by Kevin Colden

The Solicitation
“Death and Rebirth,” Part 1. THE CROW is reborn—in Tokyo. Can a dark spirit fight for the light? THE CROW has always done just that—striking from the shadows, a kind of shadow himself. The spirit of the Crow is back, transfiguring Jamie Osterberg, an American studying in Tokyo and deeply in love with his Japanese girlfriend, Yumi… until the love of his life is stolen. The Crow must once more make the wrong thing right—but this time he might have to do it by killing his own true love…

Preview

Why I Bought It
I was a fan of the original story, and a sucker for keeping up with the latest movies. I saw that this was the first original story in a while so I thought I would give it a go.

What I Liked
The attempt. It really tried. It really wanted to be taken seriously. And there were parts that were nice ideas, but terrible execution.

What I Didn't Like
This issue felt very stuffed. It tried to do a lot for a first issue.

I would say the book is on par with one of the New 52 DC books - some of the reading required some familiarity with the character and the general story line in order to get what was going on. The last page is a perfect example of this. If you know nothing about how The Crow works, you end the issue wondering what the fuck is going on.

I believe it was The Crow: Salvation that had the master criminal trying to do scientific experiments on himself. I don't remember clearly, its been awhile. So this book tries to go on a sci-fi bend, but I don't think that is the territory that it needs to go for a Crow story. They are two different genres that just aren't meshing well in this story.

The art is just a mess for me. The art does try to take up as much room on the page as it can, which is commendable, but it has too much jammed in there. I don't know if that is more the fault of the writer wanting to show something and not letting the artist doing their job or the artist trying to show off. Since this is a collaborative medium, I'll share it 50/50 between the two.

How the story should have gone: Start out with Jamie already the Crow. Have him go through attacking the science guys. Have him talk with the spirit of Haruko along the way. You are already dealing with the spiritual, and I liked that idea thrown in there. Have Jamie flash back to his past as he is killing people. Maybe show that's where he learned his sword wielding skills. At the end of the first issue, have him come face to face with Haruko's possessed body. Don't use science to explain the body being taken over, we are already dealing with souls and spirits so keep it in that realm. Let's say our main villain has the ability to travel between bodies as it likes, forcing the current spirit of the body out. But it has to be specific bodies that it takes from, just as there are specific bodies that the Crow has to instill with life after death.

It may be a shitty idea, but it works better in bringing all the characters to the table that need to be brought to it.

And the cover I bought, the regular edition, WTF is going on there? I wish I bought one of the other covers that made sense and didn't look like a mess with the logo just slapped on there. The picture above is smaller than the actual cover and it begins to look like something. But the physical copy of the book is just a different beast altogether.

Panel to Remember
The last panel, but for all the wrong reasons. It wasn't earned. It was a panel of Jamie as the Crow. New readers won't get it. Its just presented with little telegraphing or explanation.

Quotable
"It's done. He's gone and he won't be coming back..." - last line in the book.

Grades
Words: 2/10
Pictures: 2/10
Buy Next Issue: Read the last line of the issue and that should tell you if I am or not.

Comics! Hoax Hunters #1

Hoax Hunters #1

Story: Michael Moreci & Steve Seeley
Art: Axel Medellin

The Solicitation
“DIE OFF ANOTHER DAY,” Part One -- The acclaimed backup begins its own series! A rash of mass animal deaths leads the Hoax Hunters to the Louisiana bayou. What they find is a mystery that harkens to Jack’s past – and a dangerous cryptid bent on revenge!

Preview

Why I Bought It
I got the Hoax hunters #0 issue or whatever it was through Comixology and it was enjoyable. Thought I would give the main series a go.

What I Liked
Um...

What I Didn't Like
Holy shit, is this even the same comic that I read before? I could have sworn the art was different...

Did a quick read through of the issue #0 again and yes, this is a completely different artist. And you know what, combine that with how the story was very, very lack luster and you have the reasons why this comic dropped in quality.

This isn't a true issue #1. This felt like one of the DC New 52 books where you know that there is some back story and some of these characters are interesting, but your at a loss to explain or at least try to figure out what is going on from anything else in the book. This is like the second episode for a TV series that had a successful pilot and then they completely forgot what the show was all about.

Or maybe this is the direction that the book wants to go in. If so, then go and have some fun. I won't be along for the ride. Maybe this is an issue that is on par with what they described to the cameras at the beginning of the comic - that this isn't their usual thing, but it was interesting to check out.

Panel to Remember
There wasn't any one panel that really stood out. Seriously, if I had to go for one then it would be the pin-up of the astronaut at the end of the book. That's about the only memorable picture out of the whole thing.

Quotable
"Sup" - The astronaut's one line, and its from the one page pin-up that I described.

Grades
Words: 4/10
Pictures: 3/10
Buy Next Issue: Um, no. Wow, I can't believe it went in that direction. Seemed so odd to do that.

Comics! Chew: Secret Agent Poyo #1

Chew: Secret Agent Poyo #1

Written by John Layman
Drawn by Rob Guillory

The Solicitation
Hey retailers/readers/speculators! Still kicking yourself for not ordering and/or passing by CHEW #1, now that you see what it's going for on eBay? Here's your chance to get sweet, sweet, revenge, with an all-new CHEW #1, a one-shot spinning off CHEW's most popular supporting character, and comics' most beloved homicidal cybernetic kung-fu rooster. Concentrated mayhem. Feathers, rage and hate! Plus: an all-star pin-up gallery from some of the most staggeringly talented artists in the industry!

Preview

Why I Bought It
Poyo!

No, seriously....Poyo!

What I Liked
Poyo!


I already enjoy Chew immensely. It was such a fun comic from the word go when I read the first trade. And this entire one shot is all about one of the best characters in the book, Secret Agent Poyo. Read the solicitation and you will get why you just sit back with this comic and have fun.

The best part is that this comic was more enjoyable than almost any other book I've read the past month. Everything from the art to the story just hit all the right notes and was spot on, goofy over the top-ness that you see all the time from the regular book.

We finish it off with some guest artist putting together some one page pin-ups to enjoy. I like seeing the other takes on the character, and they have their moments. I think my favorite was the Ben Templesmith one.


What I Didn't Like
Anything not Poyo!

Even if I try to break this comic down and come up with something that could have been done better, I realize that I simply can't do it. There not anything here to get upset about, and it has everything I want from the comic.

Panel to Remember
Poyo!

I love the moment when Poyo finds love, and then it is quickly taken from him. That look on his face is just ready for war.

Quotable
Poyo!

"Yeah fuckers. Poyo!!!"

Grades
Words: Poyo/Poyo!
Pictures: Poyo/Poyo!
Buy Next Issue: Poyo!

Seriously, if anymore of these type of issues get published I will be all over them.

Comics! Batman & Robin #11

Batman & Robin #11

Peter J. Tomasi: writer
Patrick Gleason: penciller
Mick Gray, Keith Champagne, and Tom Nguyen: inkers

The Solicitation
• DAMIAN makes good on his decision to defeat each ROBIN, and in a brilliant show of arrogance, starts with RED HOOD! • The army of BATFREAKS is dead set on avenging their plight starts with the people of Gotham City!

Preview

Why I Bought It
Third favorite Bat-book out right now, favorite Damian book period. Give me more Damian!

What I Liked
Half of the comic. Its obviously the half of the comic that dealt with Damian fighting Red Hood. And anytime Damian speaks. Seriously, the rest of the comic is crap, let's just forget about it.

Obviously I'm going a little big on a fan-boy rage, but I just can't stand the villains in this. This comic should just be about Damian and breaking down his character, and honestly its the subplot of the book that drives that best.

What I Didn't Like
The thing that made the previous story line so much better was the fact that the villain seemed to be more of an intellectual match for both Batman and Robin. Here it is simply a bunch of disabled, D-list villains trying to get revenge on Batman. That was essentially what Nobody wanted as well, but his vendetta was more personal that could really hit home since he knew Bruce's identity. These villains now just pale in comparison.

I really hope that this book doesn't take about 9 issues to tell these villain's story like the previous one. I may just have to drop the book if that is the case.

Panel to Remember
The surprise first punch between Robin and Red Hood was spot on. The background was a flash to the past  when Jason Todd got smashed in the face with a crowbar. And it was more the look on Joker's face that drove it home.

Quotable
"Don't forget, I know where you live- you little brat." - Jason to Damian as Damian runs off with the Red hood mask.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 8/10 - Gleason seems to be getting more splashy with each issue, and with the team of inkers coming on, I think he may be slipping in his schedule. We will probably see a fill in artist sometime soon.
Buy Next Issue: Yea. Just hope they get to the good parts of the comic quickly.

Comics! Punk Rock Jesus #1

Punk Rock Jesus #1

Sean Murphy: story and art

The Solicitation
The newest reality show hit has the unlikeliest celebrity of all in this new black and white miniseries from writer/artist Sean Murphy (JOE THE BARBARIAN, Off Road)! J2, the TV series starring a clone of Jesus Christ, causes chaos across a near-future United States in PUNK ROCK JESUS, a new miniseries written and drawn by Sean Murphy, the acclaimed illustrator of JOE THE BARBARIAN and AMERICAN VAMPIRE: SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST. J2 causes outrage and adulation. Religious zealots either love or hate the show, angry politicians worry about its influence on the nation, and members of the scientific community fear the implications of cloning a human being at all – let alone the Son of God. And what effect will this all have on Gwen, the young woman who is selected, through an American Idol-style process, to be the mother of the new Messiah? All this leads to the hiring of Thomas McKael, the clone’s bodyguard and a former IRA operative with a turbulent past who must protect the new Messiah – a baby who captivates the world, but grows up to become an angry teenager.

No Preview.

Why I Bought It
Punk. Rock. Jesus. A six issue series that sounds rather intriguing. I decided to give the first issue a go to see what it was like.

What I Liked
Wow, that was a much better read than I anticipated.

It hits all the notes it needs to set up the world the story is taking place in. Time jumps rather quickly, but its at a pace that is comfortable and not jarring to the reader. When I finished reading the book I could tell you exactly who everyone was and what their role would play in the story, and it just fits perfectly.

There is a lot of complexity here that I didn't see coming. The setting of the story is just as important as any of the characters, and it gets it moments to shine as well.

The art style really surprised me. I liked that Murphy went with a black and white style to this instead of trying to put some color into it.

And if Thomas isn't supposed to be some sort of stand in for The Punisher, I'll rip this comic to shreds.

What I Didn't Like
The fact that this is a six issue mini-series. There is so much of a sense of world building that I don't really want it to end after six issues. We'll see where the story goes and if everything can keep with the pace that has been set in this first issue. If it can't, maybe I'll be glad its only six issues long.

Panel to Remember
The last panel really sticks out. The way the rain comes down and hits Slate as he is killing someone is just nicely done.

Quotable
"And if I have to resurrect Jesus Christ to do it, then I will." - Can be kinda corny, but this just seemed to be a defining line for the character who said it.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
Buy Next Issue: I'm game for it.

Comics! Peter Panzerfaust #5

Peter Panzerfaust #5

Co-Creators:
Kurtis Wiebe: words
Tyler Jenkins: pictures

The Solicitation

"THE GREAT ESCAPE," Conclusion


Paris isn't safe. The plan failed. A journey that began with promise comes crumbling down when the Nazi's take the capital and France plunges into occupation. With nowhere to run, the Lost Boys make their final stand.


Preview

Why I Bought It
This issue was said to be the conclusion of the first arc of the series. This would be the make it or break it issue for me.

What I Liked
There has been consistency throughout this series. With time jumping forward to move the story, the art maintaining the same feel throughout the series, and just the general feel of the book has been maintained all throughout.

What I Didn't Like
UGH.

This has just been a book of highs and lows for me. This is such a cool concept and can be taken to so many places. When I look at what it has done, I just shrug. I haven't liked the art. The story takes some weird jumps. It remained consistent with being just weird.

The characters just blended together for me. They really did. I didn't care too much about any of them. And from the looks that we only scratched the surface of Peter's story, I just feel frustrated that more wasn't done.

Let me put it this way: if you take the characters by themselves and don't know anything about the mythos of Peter Pan, can this book work for you? In parts, yes. In many other ways, no. Just when it looks like something may get off the ground, it just stops.

Maybe reading this all together will work better, but for now I'm just leaving it alone in my long boxes to collect dust for now.

Panel to Remember
The Eiffel Tower. Was that supposed to be impressive? If the artist was more realistic and had a photo like quality to his art then I would have gone for it taking an entire page. With this style, it just wasn't my cup of tea and looked like it was space filler.

Quotable
"Time to go."

Grades
Words: 5/10
Pictures: 3/10
Buy Next Issue: I'm out. Maybe flip through a trade later on, but nothing anytime soon.

Comics! Revival #1

Revival #1

Story by Tim Seeley
Art by Mike Norton

The Solicitation
For one day in rural central Wisconsin, the dead came back to life. Now it's up to Officer Dana Cypress to deal with the media scrutiny, religious zealots, and government quarantine that has come with them. In a town where the living have to learn to deal with those who are supposed to be dead, Officer Cypress must solve a brutal murder, and everyone, alive or undead, is a suspect. A beautiful "farm noir" that puts a new twist on the zombie genre, created by NYT Bestselling author TIM SEELEY and acclaimed artist MIKE NORTON.

Preview

Why I Bought It
So there was this one week that Walking Dead #1 came out, and there were about a hundred other comics on the shelf with #1 in the title so I thought I'd give them a spin and see what happens.

What I Liked
This was a nice and solid first issue. We got to meet all the key players, the basic premise of the story was delivered, and we ended with a nice cliffhanger to bring me back next issue.

The art was really solid as well. Even after a second reading, the story just flowed so well. I can see where those that don't like this concept might just shrug their shoulders at it, but I think it has got lots of potential.

Our main character Dana is one that is interesting. She kinda reminds me a little like Montoya from the Batman comics back in the day. The only thing missing is the lesbian thing going on, otherwise it is almost spot on.

The second story with the weird alien thing is going to be interesting to see develop as well.

What I Didn't Like
Re-treading of ideas. An idea very similar to this one popped up in Torchwood, a British TV show. In the show, the basic idea was that no one could die. And so it is here as well, all be it a slightly different vibe from it. It just sucks seeing a similar idea approached again so soon after I just finished watching Torchwood, but it is something I have to look past when reading this comic. Sure, comparisons will be made, but this comic looks like it has legs of its own to stand on.

Panel to Remember
Any panel that consists of an old woman pulling her teeth out has to stand out as being awesome in my book.  The even better part is when they grow back.

Quotable
"Ma'am, put the pliers down..." Where do you think this is in the book?

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
Buy Next Issue: I'm down. This has got some potential to go places depending on the next issue.

Comics! Batman #11

Batman #11

Scott Snyder: writer
Greg Capullo: penciller
Jonathan Glapion: inker


Backup:
Writers: Scott Snyder & James Tynion IV
Art: Rafael Albuquerque

The Solicitation

• The stunning conclusion to “THE COURT OF OWLS” epic!


• All is revealed in “THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF WAYNE.”


Preview

Why I Bought It
Batman's been rocking my socks. I dig it.

What I Liked
There isn't much here that I didn't enjoy. With that upfront, the highlight for me has been the art. its the small details that Capullo puts in, and it is just amazing how the story flows from it.

And look at that cover. That is a pretty bad ass covers. Simple colors, simple imagery. Small details with the painted fire that look like bats. About the only thing that throws the whole thing off is that text to the left talking about how its the finale to the Court of Owls. Yes, we know.

Let's face it, there was a lot of re-tooling of the characters throughout this series, both in the main and the back-up. If this were the previous universe, this story would serve as to crowd up Bruce's history. Since this is the new 52 and it is still being written, it fits in just right. I have to tip my hat in Snyder's direction for taking the written words and crafting a nicely done story.

What I Didn't Like
There were many times I felt like this was Azrael, round 2.

An assassin from a mystic order intent on killing everyone who opposes them? A club that no one things is real but has been crafting the world around themselves for ages while making themselves pretty powerful along the way? Mindless soldiers that are arguably trained from birth but once the group gets a hold of them they suddenly become endowed with master fighting skills? Efficient killing machines?

Its all a little too close for my comfort, but the story was still done well.

Panel to Remember
Bruce's eye at the end of the main story. The contact lens is in and he is looking at Gotham. Nicely done.

Quotable
"But that's just it, Master Bruce. I already know everything I need to know about my father." - Alfred, showing where he and Bruce can differ on how they view the world.

Grades
Words: 10/10
Pictures: 10/10
Buy Next Issue: It will be interesting to see where the next issue takes us, but bring it on.

Comics! The Walking Dead #100

The Walking Dead #100 - Spoilers!


Robert Kirkman: creator, writer
Charlie Adlard: penciller, inker

The Solicitation

"SOMETHING TO FEAR" CONTINUES!


This extra-sized chapter contains one of the darkest moments in Rick Grimes' life, and one of the most violent and brutal things to happen within the pages of this series. 100 issues later, this series remains just as relentless as the debut issue. Do not miss the monumental 100th issue of THE WALKING DEAD!

Preview

Why I Bought It
I've been with the comic since issue #7, why turn back at any point between then and now?

What I Liked
This issue hit all the notes it could have. It had tension, it had suspense, and it had black and white horror. We got a character death, and a new threat. These are things I expect and enjoy from a Walking Dead comic.

And my goodness, the art. Adlard has made this comic his own. I enjoyed the first six issues, but ever since then its been a distant memory. Actually if you think about it, my intro to Walking Dead has been with Adlard. tony Moore's art from the first six issues just look weird from my vantage point with what I've gotten to know.

I think the covers are what really made the book shine. My retailer had all the covers in one package for $40, but I didn't go for them. I got the standard cover  as well as the wrap around cover featuring all the past dead characters. I normally don't like buying multiple copies of a comic, but this was money well spent.

What I Didn't Like
It absolutely sucked that our villain of the issue, Nagan, gave the exact reasons for not killing each character. Honestly, I wanted Rick to die. I thought the comic could easily carry on without him. All the other characters have a backing now and would carry the book for whatever lengths it needed to go. Now I just think that Rick will be there until the bitter end. Glenn going sorta seemed like a safe bet. There wasn't really much his character could do now that he was trying to settle down and play things safe since he has Maggie.

Nagan. Reminds me WAY too much of the Governor. Seriously, I just saw him and his attitude and that's all I can see. So, for the foreseeable future we will have The Governor, Round 2. And that just sucks. There is going to have to be a lot that Kirkman does in order to make me see different, but I am willing to give him the chance to do it.

Panel to Remember
The one page spread of the inside of Glenn's head. Nicely done. It makes me thankful this comic is only in black and white.

Quotable
"Please. Please don't." - Glenn.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 10/10
Buy Next Issue: Bring out your dead!

Comics! Creator-Owned Heroes #2

Creator-Owned Heroes #2

Steve Niles, Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray, Phil Noto, Kevin Mellon

The Solicitation

"TRIGGERGIRL 6," Part Two
by JIMMY PALMIOTTI, JUSTIN GRAY & PHIL NOTO
In this sci-fi thriller, Triggergirl hits the ground running, fighting her way to the White House to assassinate the President of the United States. Can nothing stop this one woman killing machine?


"AMERICAN MUSCLE," Part Two
by STEVE NILES & KEVIN MELLON
Facing the realization that he has led the gang to a dead end, Gil takes matters into his own hands. Unfortunately, heading into a mutant infested desert my yourself leads to big, nast trouble.


PLUS! An interview with PAUL POPE, a PHIL NOTO art gallery, con photos, and original articles all celebrating the creator-owned spirit!


Preview

Why I Bought It
I enjoyed the first issue on multiple levels, let's see if the magic can continue.

What I Liked
Good news, it does!

There really isn't much here that I didn't like. I think it is the combination of all the elements that bring the comic together that really draw me in. Both comics are starting to get interesting, with Trigger Girl 6 being the one that really brings in a twist.

The interview this issue features Paul Pope. In it, he honestly comes off as weird sounding. You can tell the man is an artist, an artists have a weird view of the world that I can appreciate. He's never let me down and it is interesting hearing about how he approaches the world.

What I Didn't Like
I'm still a little lost with the American Muscle comic. While the story for it definitely advanced, it just seemed lacking. It might have been because it was the second story and had to follow an excellent showing by Trigger Girl.

Panel to Remember
The two page spread featuring Paul Pope's interview. Nicely done.

Quotable
"This thing has a California license...and was over a hundred years old. Wow." - guy describing one of the monster things the gang just killed in American Muscle.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
Buy Next Issue: I'll be down with it.

Comics! Animal Man #11

Animal Man #11

Jeff Lemire: writer
Alberto Ponticelli: penciller
Wayne Faucher: inker

The Solicitation
• The stunning conclusion of “Extinction Is Forever”! • Big things are in store for the next chapter in the Animal Man saga – and they start here!

Preview

Why I Bought It
Its a wrap-up of sorts for the latest story arc for our title hero. Let's see how this goes.

What I Liked
That cat is actually good for something - turning into a giant cat. I liked it, gave the cat a purpose other than just hanging around in the background.

Animal Man's powers are now back. And so is he. In a way.

What I Didn't Like
The mix of the solicitations line saying this is the concluding part of a saga, and a beginning of the next chapter. Seems like a wrong thing to say.

That damn cat finally got to do something, and then went down so easily. That's weak sauce.

Yea, this review is starting to sound like bullet points. I just felt like this book was rushed. The story seemed to come to a conclusion in a rather quick fashion after dragging things out for what seems like issues. Animal Man's new powers are kinda cool, but it just seems that instead of just channeling an animal, he morphs somewhat into one. And its not anything that his own wife really notices when he comes flying back with feathers.

The art just felt bad. It is definitely different from what we first began with from issue one, and I must applaud that it has been kept somewhat consistent in the style/ tone that it wants to take since issue #1. But here it just seems to go from almost photo-like with its animal depictions to anime style faces for the kids and seemingly everything in between. The cut on Cliff's face changes from going across one cheek from left to right like it was cut, to up and down on the same cheek. And honestly, i couldn't tell if he was supposed to be a midget teenager or just a really young kid in the last few pages.

I guess at the end of the issue I just don't feel like anything has changed besides a few token things like Animal Man's powers.

Oh, and next issue features Swamp Thing. They really, really mean it this time.

Panel to Remember
There isn't a panel within the comic that sticks out in my mind one way or another. They all just seem like a mess. My favorite thing was on the cover - and specifically the bottom of Cliff's shoe.

Quotable
"Good idea, sister. Maybe make him a brunet this time?" - One of the Royal Tailors as they begin to re-make Animal Man's body.

Grades
Words: 4/10
Pictures: 2/10
Buy Next Issue: We finally get an actual Swamp Thing crossover. At least, I hope we do.

Comics! TMNT Color Classics #3

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Color Classics #3

Eastman and Laird

The Solicitation
This tale of the original TMNT expands the Turtles universe! After a big Mouser battle, Splinter's gone missing and it’s up to his ninja turtle sons to find him. But, little do they know, an extraterrestrial surprise of cosmic proportions awaits them at the end of their search!

Preview

Why I Bought It
I'm liking the classic 80s vibe/indie styling of the early turtle years.

What I Liked
The moments. These are young, different turtles. There personalities aren't as defined as they are nowadays. Ralph asks for a beer. A car chase takes up almost the whole comic. Phrases like "holy hippo spit!"

This is a roughed up, somewhat edgier look at the turtles. I know it may be edgy considering everything about the cartoon and its influence, but this makes me want to see what a more grown up take on the turtles would be like. Yes, I know they are supposed to be teenagers, but they don't act like teenagers in most of their stuff. In here they do, and this is what I would want to see more of. Think of the movie "Kids" crossed over with this comic.

What I Didn't Like
Try as they might, there are times when it is difficult to follow which turtle is which. That makes sense why they made changes that they did in order to cross this over into a TV show for kids. There are some ways that they work around it, and you can sometimes tell in the way they talk or fight, but there are times that it is just too difficult. I couldn't imagine what it would be like to read this in its original black and white version and try to distinguish some things.

Then again, I can also see some panels that would look spectacular in black and white. The devil is in the details.

Panel to Remember
The last panel featuring the turtles when they all pass out at April's place. When they don't have their teeth or eyes showing, the Turtles as drawn here actually look very happy and at peace.

Quotable
"Holy hippo spit." - one guy's cry as he dodges out of the way of the Turtles driving by.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
Buy Next Issue: I'll keep it up for another issue. This is just guilty fun.

Comics! Batman Incorporated #2

Batman Incorporated #2


Writer: Grant Morrison
Artist: Chris Burnham

The Solicitation
• This is the story of a man and a woman fighting over the heart and soul of their child. Unfortunately for the world, the man is BATMAN, the woman is TALIA AL GHUL, and the child is DAMIAN.

Preview

Why I Bought It
Well, I was going to wait for the trade, but then I saw it on the shelf and it just looked so intriguing. And my retailer had a non-combo pack edition!

What I Liked
Now this is how you do a villain centered issue. Seriously, this is what the last issue of The Flash should have been, taking the entire issue to tell the story of the main villain of the piece.

This at least puts us into perspective of how Talia al Ghul fits in the new 52. And I'm down with it. Morrison does his trick of condensing as much information within these pages as possible, and Burnham finds the perfect way to make it fit.

There are a lot of details that are left out in between the panels, but this book was made with that in mind. You just want to get the main talking points and make every panel count.

After reading this issue, I really don't think that Talia believes her father to be a problem. Her taking him down in the end shows that. For her, the main focus is Batman. It will be interesting to see how this story continues to play out.

What I Didn't Like
This is a pretty nice issue. About the only think I don't like is Morrison invoking mysticism and symbols into the comic in the way that he can in such a convoluted way. This was a more toned down version of it, but I think my dislike for its use is the only factor is my thinking it is a bad thing.

Panel to Remember
The fear is Ra's eyes as they become Batman shaped when Batman is coming to attack him. This entire issue was all about the eyes. Just about any panel where the details are in the eyes could be included here.

Quotable
"I promised love. He chose war." - Talia on her offer to Batman of them getting it on and leaving the world behind.

Grades
Words: 10/10
Pictures: 10/10
Buy Next Issue: Definitely.

Comics! The Flash #10

The Flash #10

Script & Cover by Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Pencils by Marcus To
Inks by Ray McCarthy

The Solicitation
• THE FLASH vs. THE WEATHER WIZARD!
• The Flash may survive…but will BARRY ALLEN?

Preview

Why I Bought It
Its the Flash, and I have this collection thing going.... Such a shame and typically feels like wasted money.

What I Liked
This is a good try at re-creating what Geoff Johns did back in the day when he was writing Flash. While I am not fully behind this story, I can say that I love that they tried to put everything into this one story that you would need to know to get the Weather Wizard and run with his character. They really, really tried.

Guest art! That was surprising. I actually really appreciated it. I don't know if it was a rush job, or if To read from notes from Manapul or received layouts or what, but this is some good stuff. I don't mind this art at all on fill-in, and I think that To could do a good job with a book all by himself.

What I Didn't Like
Everywhere this story and books falls short.

It tried to do the Geoff Johns single villain issue focus and it failed. Weather Wizard. OK, I guess the name should say it all. But he goes from having his own two hands control water to then using the glowing stick thing. So where are his powers coming from?

The Weather Wizard's sister-in-law does some serious turn about with her character. However, each time it happens it feel very forced. And her confessing? Why? The only reason I could see is because the story said to do it.

And that's the way the book feels. We just seem to be flipping all the characters around without much of a rhyme or reason to it. When they need to be doing something to serve the plot, then there they are doing it. If  a character needs to forget something, it is forgotten. For as much as the early issues seem to crawl at a snail's pace, there seems to be an urgency in getting caught back up to where they want the book to be. This is also clearly evident in the fact that I have yet to find a reason to care if this Flash lives or dies. This Flash doesn't have an ultimate goal or agenda. That's what is missing.

Panel to Remember
The scene in the beginning where the Weather Wizard's brother gets shot. Looking at those bullets and their trajectory, there have to be multiple gunmen involved. Or multiple guns. Or, you know, bad art.

Quotable
"Mooove!!!" - said by Flash. I just get this image in my head that he is saying it somewhat ironically when he says it like this, since to him everyone must be moving around slow as cattle.

Grades
Words: 3/10
Pictures: 7/10
Buy Next Issue: My collection demands it, let's hope my wallet doesn't refuse.

Comics! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #11


Story: Kevin Eastman & Tom Waltz
Script: Tom Waltz
Art: Dan Duncan

The Solicitation
The Turtles bring in a surprising new ally to storm the Foot Clan lair! Meanwhile, will Splinter escape the Foot? He'll have to get through the Shredder first! It's a rematch centuries in the making, don't miss it!

Preview

Why I Bought It
Turtle power. Duh.

What I Liked
More human characters! seriously, I like the addition of non-mutant characters. It brings a more grounded kind of approach, and it is nice to see someone else acknowledge that there are mutants crawling out of the wood works these days.

The art continues on the same level as previous issues. the non Splinter side of the story takes some advancement towards a confrontation.

What I Didn't Like
I really don't know if its because I don't like Splinter, or if things are intentionally slow, but come on with the Splinter story. Including the Micro-Series issue, it seems like Splinter has been fighting the Foot for freaking months. Didn't last issue start and stop with him being surrounded by Foot? Granted, he went from being in chains, to not being in chains, to kicking the Foot's butt, to kicking the sidekick's butt, to now about to cross weapons with Shredder.

It just seems like either padding the story for a couple of extra issues, or trying to make Splinter a bigger bad ass then people give him credit for. If it is the latter, then it isn't working for me. This part of the story needs to be done and over with by now.

Panel to Remember
Even though I don't like him, the one page panel with Splinter surrounded by fallen Foot. It has a moment of Kill Bill to it. if this issue was supposed to be a shout out to that scene where the Bride takes on and kills all the ninjas, then this comic was near it.

Quotable
"Don't tell these estupidos nothin' Angel!" - said by the gang member I assume is Latino. That translates into "Don't tell these stupids nothin" which just sounds weird. "Idiotas" would have been better.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 9/10
Buy Next Issue: Assuming that this will run in four parts, next issue will hopefully be the last of Splinter vs. the Foot. Then we can get over this hump and on to something else.

Comics! The New Deadwardians #4

The New Deadwardians #4


Writer: Dan Abnett
Artist: I.N.J. Culbard

The Solicitation
Inspector Suttle, closing in on the perpetrator of the impossible crime, must escape the living terror of Zone B’s East End if he is to chase down the remaining leads. Can the living ever let the dead go free? And if the investigation extends beyond the cordoned comfort of London, into the bleak Restless Wastes, what other horrors will he face?

No Preview.

Why I Bought It
Continuing with this story, against my better judgement. It is the halfway point after all.

What I Liked
The art is consistent. Very consistent, and I'm liking that. You know what to expect. There is this whole world that is being developed and we have spent the first four issues building it all up.

What I Didn't Like
See what I liked.

What's the point? Oh, there was a murder. has there been anything else? Are we supposed to be exposed to something else? Is there anything else going on? I really feel like I am missing something.

Oh yea, the point of the comic.

At the halfway point, we should be able to see the end game, or at least be able to tell where it is going. What it feels like is that it is still building up as if this series will go past 8 issues. If I knew that it was an ongoing, then it may be more interesting, but since it is limited, we  need to be at a certain place in the story by now, and this just doesn't feel like it.

I'm really, really hesitant to buy the next issue off the rack. I have the feeling that I would be seeing more in the quarter bin and I wouldn't miss it until I flipped to it when browsing.

Panel to Remember
The zombies walking around on fire. Why don't they just set the whole lot of them on fire? Why bother taking the cure and setting up all this nonsense?

Quotable
"Go arn! Leave him alone or I'll bloody well kick your balls off!" - Just hilarious to try and say and definitely shows not to take the character seriously.

Grades
Words: 4/10
Pictures: 8/10
Buy Next Issue: I'll preview it a bit, then I might wait to buy it either in digital form or in the quarter bins.

Comics! The Massive #1

The Massive #1


Written by Brian Wood
Art by Kristian Donaldson

The Solicitation
In a post-war, post-crash, post-disaster, post-everything world, the environmental-action trawler Kapital scours the earth’s oceans for its mysteriously missing sistership, The Massive. Captain Callum Israel, a man who has dedicated his life to the ocean, now must ask himself—as our planet dies—what it means to be an environmentalist after the world’s ended. Callum and his crew will come up against pirates, rebels, murderers, and thieves as they struggle to remain noble toward their cause. Can you save a planet that's already doomed?

Preview

Why I Bought It
The comic sat on the shelf. All alone. Staring at me with eyeball shaped planet split in half with the words "The Massive" all over it. (Yes, there is a reason I described the thing as something like a thing.)

What I Liked
I liked the fact that this wasn't a comic I could just flip through. This comic really demanded my attention and wanted to bring me into the world. There was a lot of information thrown at me with this comic and I think there is still more exposition needed to really lay out what will be coming up. You can tell there is a larger plan than this one book.

What I Didn't Like
Whatever the plan is, I don't think I'm behind it.

This book wasted no time getting into the story. That works just fine, as long as you are willing to take your time and read this book and attempt to understand the characters. The first thing that tackles that idea out of my head is the art. Every face is drawn the same way, with the same jawline. Only the hair is really different. Its is a trick that I can do because it makes it easy for me to draw stuff, and I know that I suck at drawing. Story boarding, I have no issue, but drawing I just can't do. So when I notice things like that, I think that the framing of the panel will be handled with care, but there are going to be times I just think that everyone is staring at each other, mouths unable to part.

Exposition, scene, exposition, scene. That is the general layout of the book. At the end of it, I really didn't think that I left fully knowing or understanding what these characters were doing or where they were heading. I got the feelings of some liberal, hippie kinda feel for them, but that's about it.

This is, quite frankly, a book that shouldn't be on its own. It needs the trade, which is how I usually like to read Brian Wood's stuff. But look at something like Northlanders, which is a simple concept and just let's the world and artist speak for themselves, to something like this that requires massive amounts of build up and exposition. And when the name The Massive is said five times in the first four panels (six if you include the title cover and the title in the book) then I just wonder why the fuck I should care. I could barely see a reason why they should.

Panel to Remember
I don't have one. Seriously, maybe the panel with the dead whales, but even that isn't given its due credit for the artist to shine. I think stiff is a word I would use to describe the art.

Quotable
"Another week of this sort of maneuvering, bridge, we'll be drifting." - sums up how I feel about this book.

Grades
Words: 6/10
Pictures: 2/10
Buy Next Issue: I'm going to have to pass. Maybe I'll pick up the next Brian Wood indy title, but no need for this one.

Comics! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Color Classics #2

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Color Classics #2


Eastman and Laird

The Solicitation
This tale of the original TMNT expands the Turtles universe, detailing the origin of many familiar faces, such ass April O'Neil, Baxter Stockman, and of course the mechanized Mousers!

Preview

Why I Bought It
$4 you say? Well, I liked the first one, and I appreciate something that gives me some bang for my buck! And, of course, its the Turtles.

What I Liked
I like more and more seeing where the current series got the base of its story from. And now parts of the old movie make a little more sense for me. And by old movie, I am only talking about the first one.

This book just had a gritty, 80's style and feel to it. It is hard to describe the feeling of reading a comic from the 80's that had this independent feeling to it. I'm a big fan of Matt Wagner's Grendel and the early issues of that series seem to have a place alongside the comic racks of a 1980s comic shop.

After reading the second issue, I am really glad that these are more done in one type of stories that don't have arcs over several books. There is something really satisfying about being able to pick up a comic and it contain a full story.

What I Didn't Like
It was so weird to jump into this book in the middle of reading other, modern comics. So while it wasn't the comic itself that I didn't like, it was more my not being prepared to read this book. Its something I should have learned after reading the first issue.

Panel to Remember
April meeting the Turtles for the first time. They are just standing there holding some freshly broken mousers and acting totally nonchalant about it. She promptly passes out on the next page.

Quotable
"Sptang!" - The sound that is made when a mouser has it's neck sliced off by Leonardo's sword.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 7/10
Buy Next Issue: These are more guilty pleasure than anything, but I'm enjoying them. Definitely worth the price of admission.

Comics! Planetoid #1

Planetoid #1


Story/Art: Ken Garing

The Solicitation
Silas, an ex-soldier turned space pirate, finds himself stranded on a mysterious planet in alien territory. As he explores the long-abandoned industrial ruins of the planet's surface he will have to fend off rogue mechanical creatures, roving cyborg militias, and a hostile alien military with a bounty on his head. Silas will have to rely on resourcefulness and bare-bones survival tactics in order to stay alive and ultimately unlock the secrets of a planet where survival is a luxury and escape an impossibility.

Preview

Why I Bought It
Space pirate crashes on a deserted planet. I figure the concept works well with Prophet, why not give this one a try?

What I Liked
I liked it, but it just seems like a gentle re-hashing of stuff I have already seen. Mind you, if this is something new to you, it does put off a nice vibe. It hits all the notes that it should for a first issue: character origin, nice, clear artwork, and lets you know a little more about what to expect from the book.

The art stands out for me more than the story. It can sometimes be difficult to pull off muddy, dark colors and still have everything be clear and understandable with the story. The art shines as it goes beyond this stereotype. Rusty metal and seas of mud are distinctive. Characters look like people. Wider shots look just as clear and detailed as close up shots.

Not knowing much about Ken Garing, I would say that he is probably an artist first and a writer second. But there is a good eye here, and I like how it looks.

What I Didn't Like
The thing for me was the writing. After reading Prophet and how excellent and out there sci-fi it is, going to this book right after just seems like a faint echo of what it could be. The story does come together better than other writer/artist, and I can see how if this is your first introduction to the character and you haven't read Prophet, then this will look good.

Panel to Remember
There is a full page devoted to a machine snake coming out of the muddy waters. The hero, Silas, is on a ledge over the mud. The background shows desolate, metallic skeletons of ruins. It works well, and if you don't like that panel, then this comic may not be for you.

Quotable
"...a filtration mask is recommended." - Ricter, a computer program that just told Silas the air contained some heavy metals right after Silas coughed up a lung.

Grades
Words: 6/10
Pictures: 8/10
Buy Next Issue: I'd give it another go if my shop has it.

Comics! Wonder Woman #10

Wonder Woman #10


Brian Azzarello: writer
Kano: artist [pages1-9]
Tony Akins: pencils [pages 10-20]
Dan Green: inks [pages 10-20]

The Solicitation

• WONDER WOMAN has been shot through the heart! It’s up to LENNOX to pull his half-sister out of HELL!
• One of DIANA’S closest companions is not to be trusted!



Preview


Why I Bought It
Continuing my trend of picking up a Wonder Woman book because I am still enjoying it.

What I Liked
When Tony Akins came back and did the art. There was a clear line when you could tell the art shifted, but that is for later. I thought that the overall path of the story was interesting, but then it took a turn.

What I Didn't Like
I think I've peaked with my time reading Brian Azzarello books.

Being witty with your dialogue and everyone thinking they are all intelligent is something that I can dig, I am a Whedon fan. Azzarello is a minimalist writer who makes everything witty. Filled with "..." and lots of "-" to transition from page to page. I'm guilty of doing it as well with some of my writing, but I'm not a professional.

It is seeing the same amateur trappings in a writer that you expect more out of. Recasting Wonder Woman in the new 52 the way he has was a great idea, but the execution has been off. I have currently stopped reading Spaceman and just collecting them to read them all at once. Why? Because I can only stand seeing a good writer leave so much talent on the side of his keyboard for so long.

With the minimalist writing style, it leaves lots of room for the art to shine. There is one page where the art really shines, and that is the one page spread. You have the idea of Wonder Woman escaping a reality where the master of that reality can command the souls of the dead to do his bidding and become whatever he so pleases. And then you read the book and you just feel like there was so much not included in this.

There should have been a better way to get Wonder Woman out of the marriage and the Lasso of Truth as a noose gag.

Panel to Remember
The only one page spread that took advantage of the art page. This one has Wonder Woman being swallowed by face without skin as she swims in an ocean of blood.

Quotable
"Meat? Meet an amazon."

Grades
Words: 3/10
Pictures: 3/10
Buy Next Issue: I'm struggling to justify it financially.

Comics! Saga #4

Saga #4

Written by Brian K. Vaughan
Art by Fiona Staples

The Solicitation
Welcome to SEXTILLION, a distant planet where even your darkest fantasies become reality. See why everyone's talking about this hit new ongoing adventure from BRIAN K. VAUGHAN and FIONA STAPLES!

Preview

Why I Bought It
Because Saga is one of the best books BKV has written.

What I Liked
This book continues the trend of making a comic that is aimed at adults. Read the solicitation and then read the comic. I am seriously surprised that BKV can take a subject matter such as being the last man on earth or being on a planet full of things that want to please your sexual desire and present them in such a way that treats its audience with respect and treats the subject matter with adult seriousness.

This is something that could easily be made into a porn setup. Easily. But if it did that, it would take away everything about the comic.

The characters in here are both presented in a good light and a bad light. None of them are perfect, but all of them are trying to be right with who they are and deal with the world around them.

What I Didn't Like
honestly there wasn't much that I could find as being wrong or feeling like it was out of place. Every panel counted and everything fit right into place.

Panel to Remember
The opening panel. Two giant heads on top of long legs saying "Welcome to Sextillion." Grabs you right from the word go.

Quotable
"Forgive me if I don't take relationship advice from a dead teenager missing her vagina."

Grades
Words: 10/10
Pictures: 10/10
Buy Next Issue: Will do, and probably until the series ends.

Comics! TMNT Micro-Series: Splinter

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Micro-Series: Splinter


Script by Erik Burnham
Art by Charles Paul Wilson III


The Solicitation
Face-to-face with the man who killed his family so many years ago, Master Splinter comes to terms with a life of assasination, love and redemption. This story takes a look back at the entire life of Splinter, including his secret life as Hamato Yoshi. This soul searching provides a startling revelation for Splinter, one that will change his and his son's lives forever!


Preview

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