Collider #1

Collider #1 

Writer: Simon Oliver
Artist: Robbi Rodriguez

Solicitation and Preview

Review
Collider has an interesting concept, but just isn't something that feels connected to the reader at all.

You will get your standard intro story, showing how the main characters work in an environment that deals with physics gone wrong. In this debut issue, everyone is on the job at a school where gravity just fails in a certain area. This type of occurrence, with other random physics gone wrong scenarios, is pretty everyday material for the world.

There was something about the story that I just wasn't connecting to, something that just felt odd. It wasn't the science behind what was going on, but I do think that if you aren't a tad familiar with some science ideas, then this will go over your head. It was the fact that any female characters that appeared, aside from an old woman, was used as a sex object or served in a job that is stereo-typically reserved for a woman.

It was a discouraging thing to notice. I'm not saying there has to be equal rights for all genders and races to be represented, but this seems like an odd thing to look over.

Aside from that, the art was interesting. It wasn't bad, but just felt lacking. The moments that seemed like some chances could have been taken with the art seemed to fall flat. For example, any of the physics gone wrong moments. Instead of making things look interesting, it just looked like a giant, colored blob on the page. It just seemed very off, and more compromised instead of taking a chance.

I don't regret picking up the book. I am glad I gave it a chance, as the concept from the solicitations sounded interesting, and the art did seem like it would have some moments. Unfortunately, I don't see those moments in this debut issue, and I'm not invested in any of the characters or the concept too deeply to try and continue with the series.

Grades
Words: 6/10
Pictures: 6/10
General Feeling After Reading: Maybe next time.
Buy Next Issue: Not for me.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #24

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #24 

Story: Kevin Eastman, Bobby Curnow, & Tom Waltz
Script: Tom Waltz
Art: Mateus Santolouco with Mike Henderson

Solicitation and Preview

Review
Gee Turtles, you didn't see Old Hob pulling a fast one on ya?

In the letter columns, it was referenced that this was a big issue that they have been building towards, and it pays off. Leo's turn to the Foot, while being fueled by the terrible trope of brainwashing, is an interesting turn. The big surprise came more from his armored look than anything. Did someone step into 90's superhero comics?

The even bigger standout for me is, as in past months, the art. Santolouco can continue to draw the Turtles for as long as he wants. And if he won't be drawing the Turtles, then I gotta check out what else he will do. His look and style for each Turtle throughout the issue, between the conversations with Old Hob and Slash, and the body language of everyone when Leo enters the scene and just done spot on. Santolouco's focus on having each Turtle's mask carry a personality trait specific to each Turtle really helps to deliver the moment when Leo cuts apart his old blue mask.

One thing that I felt was a little off was the title of the story and the fallout from it. City Fall hasn't really lived up to the name yet. We only get panels and some talk about what is going on, but the focus has instead been on the Turtles and not so much the ruined, or about to be ruined, city behind them. Maybe this issue will bring about a turn in that direction as we get some of the more outside characters to the Turtles on board.

There is a part of me thinking that the Turtles have to know that Leonardo is under a spell. But, even if they come to that conclusion, they still have no way of knowing how to turn him back. I think that would be an interesting path to take. But for now, let's see where this book can go with this premise for a bit. If past issues are any indication, this could be one hell of a ride.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 10/10
General Feeling After Reading: Anticipation.
Buy Next Issue: Bring to me now!

The Wake #3

The Wake #3 

Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Sean Murphy

Solicitation and Preview

Review
So this is it for me, the third issue trial. Does it make it, or will it fall from the pull list?

The answer is a little of both.

I'm convinced that this story will pan out and at least be decent. The action is there, but the massive expositions and words balloons that are covering up some gorgeous art is just something I can't stand.

But, I do want to continue with this book. So I've come to the conclusion that a trade-wait this book will be. I'd rather just take it all in at once, instead of it getting piece by piece.

There are some moments  in the book that make for a good moment, but it feels like it needs to be read all at once. Seeing the hunter with his white whale hallucination was one of those great moments. And the book doesn't read like it is tailoring to the monthly crowd, it is definitely something that is being built more for the trade than the monthly.

So yes, it is like a stay of execution, but I just hope I won't regret waiting.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Interested.
Buy Next Issue: I'll wait for the trade.

Batman Incorporated #13

Batman Incorporated #13 

Written by Grant Morrison
Drawn by Chris Burnham

Solicitation and Preview

Review
Giant reset button hit, resetting things back to how they were when Morrison first started.

I did have an un-vocalized feeling that it was Kathy Kane who was the person behind the organization to bring down Talia. There was a moment when Bruce picked up an old photo and spoke her name, so the reveal doesn't come completely out of nowhere.

For the most part, it was enjoyable. It will probably be a comic that will be enjoyed more in trade or when reading the whole story all over again. Right now it just feels...tiring.

I remember that I felt the same way about New X-Men when Morrison ended it. There were some similar story beats and ideas that went from that run to this Batman run. Maybe that adds a bit to the burned out feel I have for the story.

Strangely enough, there will also be a one shot special where some of the characters from the story line will be highlighted. I'm approaching it with the same way I approached the first couple of issues in New X-Men post Morrison - with a large grain of salt. Something tells me there will be some un-doings of what happened during the story line. But that is to be suspected with superhero comics these days.

I wish I could say more, but it just doesn't feel like the time or place. It was a good story, and one that kept me entertained. I'm sure I'll enjoy the re-read.

I will say, both the regular cover and Morrison's cover are pretty well done.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Exhausted.
Buy Next Issue: I'll give the special a look, but then it is series over.

Bedlam #8

Bedlam #8 

Story by Nick Spencer
Art by Ryan Browne

Solicitation and Preview

Review
This issue was a bit of a stumbling block for me.

There wasn't anything that made me walk away from the comic completely impressed or wanting the next issue. The comic seemed to move along at a pace that usually is reserved for the second issue of a series, which makes sense since this is the second issue of this new story. But then I remember that the second issue of this series rocked, so I'm at a loss to explain what is happening.

You really can't blame the artist too much for how the art looks. I know that sounds weird, but hear me out - the look of this comic comes from the original artist for the series. I don't think that this is Browne's particular style, and there seems to be a bit of bad impersonating going on at times in the issue. I think I would rather see Browne do his own style with the book, or if it the insistence of Spencer to have this kind of look, then he needs to find that person out in the world and bring him on.

This book feels like it could go places. I don't understand why the comic will still focus on things that Madder Red did before he got cured. We got the nature of who he is from the first story arc. I would rather see Filmore either hallucinate sightings of Red like before, or show some more attention to his struggles to discover what makes himself tick. Instead we are getting a focus on a "villain of the arc" type of approach, and I just think it will get boring.

If you are going to put the concept of the book on the cover, why not explore it a little more?

Grades
Words: 6/10
Pictures: 6/10
General Feeling After Reading: Irked.
Buy Next Issue: Only in the hopes that this trend doesn't continue.

The Flash Annual #2

The Flash Annual #2 

Brian Buccellato: writer
Sami Basri: pencils and inks
Backup:
Nicole Dubuc: writer
Cully Hamner: artist

Solicitation and Preview

Review
Ignore the Green Lantern part of this story. Seriously. If you want to, rip out the pages and throw them away.

There is a gem in this comic that is well worth the admission price alone. I'm talking about the backup written by Nicole Dubuc with art by Cully Hamner.

I actually cared about Barry Allen in this story and really felt like I got to know what makes him tick. The ability of this story to make me feel that way outweighs everything done to Flash since the whole New 52 took over.

There are moments in the regular series that try to go for what this story does. Maybe it is the combination of seeing them all together here or something. There is just something here that really gives me an idea of who Barry is as a Flash. And it works. I'm convinced he should be the Flash with this story.

It is a shame I don't see the same thing in either the first half of the book or in  the regular series. I could seriously go on for a while on this, but that just doesn't seem like the right thing to do.

A note on the art: really effective. Hamner does very well and you can tell there is experience behind the art.

Needless to say, I'm only going to grade the last half of the book.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Great!
Buy Next Issue: For the regular series, maybe. Since I know that Flash can be this good, maybe it is a sign to get rid of the current creative team.

Batman Annual #2

Batman Annual #2 

Story by Scott Snyder and Marguerite Bennett
Written by Marguerite Bennett
Wes Craig: pencils
Craig Yeung, Drew Geraci, Wes Craig, Jack Purcell, Sandy Florea and Marc Deering: inks

Solicitation and Preview

Review
This is an annual story: longer than a normal comic, nicely paced, self contained, and shows why it wasn't in the regular book.

The story is OK. It didn't exactly fire me up, and the concept behind it wasn't one that really stuck for me. I get Batman trying to help Arkham build better security for the cells. I get getting to know the new doctor and having him guide the story along as he encounters the inmates for the first time. Probably the worst thing about the story is the Anchoress herself. She is a character that has been in Arkham for years and wants it to return to the sanctuary that it was before Batman came along to put all the crazy in there.

The problem with her is that she comes off as crazy to begin with in the flashback scenes. That her desire not to be caged, that caused the death of her parents, was something that has been around for a very long time, even before she got into Arkham. I don't see this character being usable in another type of story, and having a one note villain like that push the story along isn't something that I can really get behind.

This book had six inkers on it. It shows. To say that anyone can ink isn't doing justice for the inkers who know what they are doing. The simple inconsistency from the beginning to the end with the look of the characters just didn't win me over in the art department. I really would like to know which pages Craig inked his own pencils on so I could get more of a sense of how his art style works.

The cover is your typical Jock kind of cover, which I always appreciate. I almost wish he went for something else other than Batman and the city silhouetted. If the story takes place in Arkham, why not have the cover represent that in some way? I almost feel like they used this cover simply because they had a Jock cover lying around, so why not use it?

Definitely something I should have waited to get. I see this one heading to the quarter bins soon enough.

Grades
Words: 5/10
Pictures: 4/10
General Feeling After Reading: That was some wasted time.
Buy Next Issue: Of the main books? Yep. Of more annuals like this? Nope.

Animal Man Annual #2

Animal Man Annual #2 

Jeff Lemire: writer
Travel Foreman: artist, interior & cover

Solicitation and Preview

Review
Now this was the Animal Man comic I've been waiting for.

It was the visuals that Travel Foreman provides that just hits home. This felt like the Animal Man comic that could be found next to some of the early issues. Nicely paced, on it's own, and doesn't involve any of the Red stuff. Just Animal Man being who he is and kicking butt.

At the very best of this story, it showed the human side to Animal Man. That family man who is just trying to do right. He is still trying to be taken seriously, and he uses his brains instead of his brawn to "win" the fight with the Spider Queen.

And let's talk about her character, because it is just creepy. Creepy in the sense that anyone else drawing her just wouldn't look right. Foreman just has the ability to bring a serious creepiness to his villains that is missing from the regular issues.

The comic is filled with moments that show character and gives picture frame worthy moments showing nothing but character details without words. I'm just so excited about this comic and where the story went.

And I think this will end my run on Animal Man. Until something happens with the art that actually looks nice, I'm out. And this comic was a good one to leave on. The title for the story, " One Last Flight," is especially appropriate.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 10/10
General Feeling After Reading: Sad, but very entertained.
Buy Next Issue: Negative.

The Flash #22

The Flash #22

Story by Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Interior and Cover art by Francis Manapul
Interior and Cover colors by Brian Buccellato

Preview and Solicitation

Review
Love that cover, greatly disappointed by the inside of the book.

Dr. Elias as evil scientist was back, as was an attempt at making him more of a third dimensional character. Not working. Boring.

Reverse Flash revelation? Nada. Nothing. But I guess him meeting Flash in this issue was a step forward, right?

Iris West in a Flash suit? Yea, that wasn't an idea borrowed from the more recent example of Lois Lane being Superwoman for an issue in All Star Superman.

There just isn't anything fresh or exciting about this book that really makes me feel like it is a Flash book. It is like the wheel is spinning, but the hamster's dead.

In fact, I am seriously thinking about breaking my streak of buying Flash comics just to not be around this comic any more.

Grades
Words: 2/10
Pictures: 6/10
General Feeling After Reading: Blah.
Buy Next Issue: Strongly considering not doing it.

Judge Dredd #9

Judge Dredd #9 

Writer: Duane Swierczynski
Artist: Nelson Daniel

Preview and Solicitation

Review
I like how this issue took a break from the regular way of splitting the book up into two parts from previous issues, and having the artist take the lead on the three different stories in this one.

It is a bit of a change up - but I feel like we got to know a little bit more of the story and it seemed to progress at a faster pace. If, for example, the book ended where it normally would after the second story, I just wouldn't have felt as satisfied with it. But bringing in the third chapter really brought it home for me.

n reading the old Judge stories in the Complete Casefiles, I like how this book does its own take on a somewhat re-imagining of the story. If you go into it knowing that this book is a separate beast from the regular Judge book, then I think you can enjoy the story more. However, being a long time Batman fan, I can see where some people would get put off because they would think that "their" Dredd should be the only one. Sometimes I side with that opinion, but usually it is when you can see that there isn't that much creativity with the new book. This book has that creativity while still respecting the original.

The meeting of the side show freaks in the scorched earth is very fitting with what I would expect. A particular favorite of mine was when they were testing out the rides, and the reaction to the passenger's death as happening sooner than they thought had this kind of macabre humor to it that just fit.

Here's hoping that some more of the good times keep coming.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: In need of more Dredd.
Buy Next Issue: I'm down with it.

Lazarus #2

Lazarus #2

Written by Greg Rucka
Art and letters by Michael Lark
Color by Santi Arcas

Review
Why is it that this issue #2 seems to be better than the first issue?

It isn't because we get to finally see some action that builds off from the last issue. For the most part, this is nothing but a war of words in this issue. This is the issue that expands on everything and actually helps world build more. I get the feeling at the end of the issue that a lot of the main players in the series have been introduced and now we are about to get into the meat of the story.

Lark's style is as crisp as ever in this issue. There is a level of emotion in each character's face that begins to become more and more unique the more familiar we get with them. Being able to display a character's personality like that shows some serious skill, and Lark brings it in this book in droves.

There is a special treat at the end of the issue in the letters columns that shows a timeline of the major events in this world to bring them to their current situation. I wonder if people who are waiting for the trade will miss out on those details and I find it to be something that really helps build the narrative. I also like how the letter column is laid out. I actually feel like I'm reading letters as opposed to having multiple columns on the page like a newspaper. It is a nice touch.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Enthusiasm rising.
Buy Next Issue: The claws of this book are digging deeper. I'm game.

The Dream Merchant #3

The Dream Merchant #3

Written by Nathan Edmondson
Art by Konstantin Novosadov

Review
I'm not sure exactly how I feel about this book. I'm not disappointed with the book or anything, but I'm not exactly bursting at the seems to read it either.

This is the kind of book that I could see a friend really getting into. I would see it on his shelf, pick it up, be intrigued enough to flip through and give it a thorough half to three quarters reading, give a grunted "hmm," and then be on my way. A concept or two would stick with me, but there isn't much here that grabs at me.

The art matches the story well. Not too detailed and has a fantasy type edge to it that makes the creatures look interesting. The story is there, but it seems to move at a pace that you would think four issues in would have accomplished a little more (I know this is issue #3, but the first issue was a much longer intro story so I'm counting it as 2).

This far along into the story, I would expect to see that game changing moment where the hero knows what he wants, accepts it, and goes into action. This issue had that moment, but there just wasn't a feeling of pumped up excitement about it. The delivery just felt a little flat to me. Like a comedian who loves to deadpan and the joke doesn't go over well.

That sounds a little harsher than how I feel. Let's instead call this comic mildly interesting to me and it never quite left that level. But if this is the comic that excites you, then by all means keep with it.

Grades
Words: 6/10
Pictures: 6/10
General Feeling After Reading: Hum.
Buy Next Issue: I'm halfway through the series, and I feel like I should back out now if this is how I feel.

Red Hood and the Outlaws #22

Red Hood and the Outlaws #22 

Writer: James Tynion IV
Pencils: Julius Gopez
Inks: Ray McCarthy (2-7, 12-17, 19)
Thumbnails: Ken Lashley

Preview and Solicitation

Review
Somewhere along the way, this book lost me.

The story is OK. It deals with magic and assassins and a bunch of fun stuff in that realm. Me personally, I just don't like those types of stories.

However, let's take away the story elements with Tynion's words. Let's look at the art that is just...below workable. Lashley is again credited for thumbnails in this issue, which actually makes the story a little readable. You can tell that there is some experience there as it feels like a typical superhero comic. But check out the credits for the inks: only a little over half the pages got inks.

There is just an inconsistency throughout the issue with the art when you have the artist doing half the inks (I assume, there was only one inker credit). And the big splash page at the end, which it seems this issue was just leading up to this moment, shows a very gun heavy, very laughable Roy Harper doing an impression of Cable from the X-Men. It should come across as awesome, but it just falls flat.

I usually only talk about covers if they stick out in some way for me. The thing that gets me about this one is that I see they are going for a symmetry kind of feel between the two characters, but Essence looks OK and Starfire just looks weird. What I would have changed is either have Essence in the same pose as Starfire so there is that balance, or have Starfire hang her legs down. Between her legs being all bendy and looking like they are two different sizes, to her stomach and hips looking out of proportion, I'm just not buying it. Yet this cover could have at least looked cool. Even change the background a bit not to have something that feels like it is a spring color special going on.

Not thrilled. That's the way I feel about the book. The story was OK and had an interesting hook, but out of everything else I am reading, it just isn't working. Add in the art and it just all crumbles away for me. This will be the last time I get a Red Hood book.

Grades
Words: 5/10
Pictures: 3/10
General Feeling After Reading: Like I just took a big bite out of a burger and it is still super rare in the center.
Buy Next Issue: I'm checking out.

Batman and Catwoman #22

Batman and Catwoman #22

Peter J. Tomasi: Writer
Patrick Gleason: Penciller
Mick Gray: Inker

Preview and Solicitation

Review
Well, this was an interesting issue.

I don't quite know how to describe it. It was entertaining, but it was lacking something. There was some emotional punch with the story that just felt missing. There wasn't that contrasting character personalities really battling it out would be the best way to describe it.

Also off in this issue was Carrie's flexibility. Between the weird held tilts and the broken back she displayed when talking with Bruce (seriously, how is her hand touching the small of her back and that is a comfortable pose?) I just felt like she was an alien in this issue. No human could bend like that. I even think Catwoman looked less flexible that Carrie did in this issue.

I will say that it was a touching moment when Batman and Catwoman had their one page of awesome sauce with Bruce carrying the little girl with the moon in the background. It really makes it seem like this entire issue was planned just around that one image, and it works in that regard. It does make the reader wonder if this was intentionally planned by Catwoman to help stir Bruce out of his misery (nicely done) or if this is happenstance. I'm going with the former more so than the latter.

Do you know what provides for some solid build up and entertainment? The Two-Face pages at the end of the issue. He's been building up for awhile now, and I find ti to be very entertaining. You know why this snail's pace of an introduction is better than the Reverse Flash's appearance in The Flash? They are quite similar in the fact that they are slowly building up this character over the course of several issue using just a page or two at a time. The detail lies mostly in the art.

Two-Face is given more of a presence than Reverse Flash. There is the mystery of who is Reverse Flash, but there isn't a whole lot being conveyed about him. He shows up and he kills someone. Some powers are displayed, but it isn't anything that really grabs me. With Two-Face, the art is bringing out his character. Very few words are ever spoken when he is around.  The faces of the other people in the room show more about how he is perceived. You know more about what Two-Face is about and his objective that leaves for a suspenseful moment. Reverse Flash is just going to kill for some reason that we won't see for what feels like a couple more issues from now.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 7/10
General Feeling After Reading: Surprisingly uninspired.
Buy Next Issue: Nightwing is up next, that family relationship should be interesting to see.

The X-Files Season 10 #2

The X-Files Season 10 #2

Story by Joe Harris with Chris Carter
Written by Joe Harris
Art by Michael Walsh
Colors by Jordie Bellaire

Preview and Solicitation

Review
Well now, the whole gang is slowly coming back now, aren't they?

Bring in Doggett, the Lone Gunmen, and next issue's guest of the Smoking Man and it is like some great reunion tour!

I recently have been catching some of the old episodes, which some hold up better than the others after many years. It is a pretty awesome experience when I read the character's word balloons and their voices just pop right into my head. It is also good that the art just matches perfectly with what I would want from an X-Files comic.

I find it strange that I'm noticing the name Jordie Bellaire as the colorist for a lot of the books I'm reading. It just can't be a strange coincidence that I'm enjoying the art with each comic as well, can it?

My only real complaint about the issue is how much of a quick read this feels. The hits just keep on coming and the story is advancing at such a pace that it keeps of with the rapid pace the show had. Bang bang bang. There is a nice collaboration between the words and the art that is perfectly set up to deliver the book in this manner.

It will be interesting to see where this book goes once all the major players are re-established and introduced. I think the idea I like most behind continuing the story in this form is that you give X-files an unlimited budget with an artist that can pull off some great work. My hope is that the comic book medium is something is taken advantage of by the creators and they continue to tell a fast paced, high action story.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 10/10
General Feeling After Reading: More. Now.
Buy Next Issue: Yes, please.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Micro-Series: Villains: Alopex

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Micro-Series: Villains: Alopex

Written by Brian Lynch
Art by Ross Campbell

Preview and Solicitation

Review
Some stories can be a good by the numbers kind of book. The plot is expected, the character turns expected. This comic would have a rather generic feel to it, but it somehow rises above that. And it has to do with the character that is portrayed in Alopex.

Now here is the weird thing about having a mutant fox for your title character - I really can't tell if Alopex is supposed to be male or female. That seems to be one of the key factors and perspectives when I read this story that make it special for me. And it is in the middle of that ambivalence that the story and character really shine.

If you were to take the same story and apply it to characters in a random crime book, there just isn't as much uniqueness as when you are dealing with the back drop of this being a TMNT book. The fact that Alopex is a mutant fox gives that moment of personal reflection and sudden memory arousal that Alopex goes through when in the woods with what you can perceive to be a member of her former family. That is the unique moment that really makes this story.

You also have to praise the artwork for the book. the art really shines on showing the speed of the fox that Alopex can whip out at any moment. The colors also pop out and bring a depth to the story from the blue beginnings to the red ending, with all the white innocence of the forest in-between. The sad thing is that the artist who told Alopex's origin story in the Raphael one shot, Franco Urru, passed away when this book was still in the planning stages. While his art style would definitely show a different approach then what was taken in this issue, I'm sure he would still be proud of how this book turned out.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Satisfied.
Buy Next Issue: Karai will get a spotlight issue, and that will definitely be something worth checking out.

Animal Man #22

Animal Man #22 

Jeff Lemire: writer
Steve Pugh: artist (4-7, 11-15, 18-20)
Francis Portela: artist (1-3, 8-10, 16, 17)

Preview and Solicitation

Review
I don't think I've been enjoying this book as much as I did at first.

I haven't been enjoying the two artists on the book. Things don't feel as scary as they should. This book originally had some sort of horror type of riff to it that has just been lost. This issue dovetailed a little bit into the absurd.

Let's take a serious look at the ax that Baker took right to his shoulder. The first thing I noticed is that it went in deep. Now the scar they showed after they "repaired" also showed a rather serious wound. Baker should have broken collar bone, but he moves around a bit like it is still intact. And they took a lot of blood from him. A lot. Like, how the hell is he still alive and able to with stand doing anything?

The story also feels padded to me again. It felt this way before when the Rotworld saga was going on. It is as if there are just a couple of goals with each issue, and in the end, nothing changes. A couple of ideas are expressed, but they seem to be dragged out. I don't know if that is more with the art or the words, but something just isn't making this book move.

And now Brother Blood will be introduced into the story. Again, this is a character, if memory serves right, that is more entwined with the Teen Titans or some other group. So once again I feel as if this book is compromising itself to bring in characters and stories from another book. Hell, the group of villains we have now that are making themselves out of spare animal parts was a good idea, but it seems they are only around to serve Brother Blood.

Sigh.

I used to say that once I noticed that three issues have gone by and I'm not enjoying the book, then it is probably a good time to say goodbye. But I've already bought the Annual that came out, so I'll have to read that and make it the last book I pick up.

Grades
Words: 5/10
Pictures: 5/10
General Feeling After Reading: Perplexed.
Buy Next Issue: Surrendering the title. No mas.

Batman '66 #1

Batman '66 #1 

Written by Jeff Parker
Drawn and Colored by Jonathan Case

Preview and Solicitation

Review
I was a big fan of the old Batman TV series back in my younger years. I've just been too far away since I last laid eyes on it to really appreciate it again in my older years.

However, this story definitely revived those feelings of nostalgia. The manner in which all the characters spoke, and the familiar "Bams!" in huge, curvy letters came at just the right point of action to trigger those old memories.

I had the chance to see the first part of this comic in the digital form with more of a motion comic feel to it. It used Comixology's Guided View quite well when I read it, but the tablet I had was a little difficult with the navigation at times. Surprisingly, the colors seem to pop a lot more in the digital form than the printed one. For the visuals alone, I would vote for the digital buy.

The art had this 3-D kind of feel to it. There was a tremendous amount of bright colors and a retro-comic kind of feel to it that you had to adjust to in the printed version. The other big noticeable point with the art in the printed version is that, much like Batman: Li'l Gotham, there is a line going across the page that cuts off the top and the bottom of the page. There is only one page that is an exception to this rule, but the action in the Guided View doesn't pull back for the full page, just the panels flowing from the top to the bottom.

This comic was essentially the TV show but with a bigger budget for more special effects and airplane fights. I'm thankful I checked it out, but it isn't something that I'll be coming back for each month. It is something worth checking out and giving a try, and if it is in your taste, then definitely keep with it, I won't complain.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 7/10
General Feeling After Reading: Nostalgia satisfied.
Buy Next Issue: Nah. Maybe another Bat-time.

Revival #12

Revival #12 

Story by Tim Seeley
Art by Mike Norton w/Art Baltazar

Preview and Solicitation

Review
This was just another phenomenal issue of Revival. As much as it tries to play for the single issue, I am beginning to see more and more how this is something that needs to be read multiple issues at a time.

This comic has such a large cast of characters and deals with so many plates at one time that it is difficult to really jump into the book mid story. Simple things like name checking characters is helpful to keep up with who is who, and the art is consistent and delivers with every issue in telling just as much of a story as the written words do.

The guest art taking up the spots in the comics where Dana is reading her son's comics is a nice touch. It is that and the other small, human moments that really hit home, like when the little girl is describing the way she returned to life. It helps to show how everyone in this small town is going to be included, and that means people from all walks of life. This comic is as much as an intimate portrayal of small town life as it is with the more fantastic elements that are coming out of the story. This issue definitely feels like a set up issue or the first part of a new story arc. You can see where the story is setting itself up to go next, and it is just hitting all the right notes.

The cover by Skottie Young is very deceiving. It makes the comic look like it will be all about kids meeting these aliens creatures as they play with some toys. But it is an innocence that the book quickly takes away from you. Although I did find it enjoyable seeing old He-Man figures with the human and the Star Wars figures with the creature. There is just something that feels very symbolic with those toy choices.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Me wants more.
Buy Next Issue: Can I get a hell yeah?!?!?

Prophet #37

Prophet #37 

Giannis Milonogiannis: story and art

Preview and Solicitation

Review
For what it is worth, this issue of Prophet is very much a self-contained style of story that delivers what you would expect out of the comic. Sci-fi, craziness, and a clone fighting whatever steps in front of him so he can complete his mission for the greater war.

Milonogiannis has an art style that reminds me of Rob Liefeld's sometimes pencil sketchy, unfinished, rushed look. He has had previous issues of Prophet under his belt before, and taking up the full story and art on this issue serves him well. Aside from the "unfinished" style of his art, I would have expected this comic to fit right in with any previous ones.

It was interesting seeing the contrasting story of his in the back up that went without colors. Comparing the two is interesting, as I can't really decide which one I would prefer to see. I think the added coloring brings about a much more appreciative look at his work that makes the story more complete in the end.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Let's go exploring.
Buy Next Issue: Hells yea.

Judge Dredd Classics #1

Judge Dredd Classics #1 

Writers: John Wagner & Alan Grant
Artists: Mike McMahon & Ron Smith
Colorist: Charlie Kirchoff

Solicitation & Preview

Review
Yea, I'm just not liking this format for Dredd.

While it is nice seeing the older stories in color, it just doesn't have the same impact for me as the Complete Casefiles editions of Dredd. Take the page layout as an example. In order to maintain the right page ratio, the bottom couple of inches on the book have this footer thing throughout the book. I can understand doing it to keep the look of the comic in tact, but it takes away from seeing some of the details in the words. Words are smashed together and if they are in bold, good luck trying to read it.

Seeing it in color also doesn't bring too much to the story for me. And why start off with this "classic" tale if you skipped ahead a few years and don't start with the very first Dredd comic? It seems like a wasted opportunity to me. Not to mention that for a "first issue" of the series, this really isn't much of a jumping on point. You really have to know who Dredd is and what the world of Meg City One is like.

For the price tag, I just don't think it is worth it. I can spend four times the money and get something that contains hundreds of more pages if I wanted to have some classic Dredd. There won't be any color in it, but I think that is something that can be left out for some classic Dredd stories.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 7/10
General Feeling After Reading: Hungry for more, but left with nothing.
Buy Next Issue: Nah. I'll wait out the trade or just get the Complete Casefiles.

Batman: Li'l Gotham #4

Batman: Li'l Gotham  #4 

Written by Dustin Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs
Art and cover by Dustin Nguyen

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I've enjoyed the Batman Li'l Gotham series since it first came out in on digital. It is a fun break from all the craziness that the regular Batman series can get, and I am a big fan of keeping Damian as Robin and some of what feels like the old DC universe character traits in tact.

Li'l Gotham is a concept you have to appreciate and come at with a sense of fun, otherwise it will be a big let down. And honestly, the stories and art are wonderfully put together. The only issue I've had with this series, other than having bought it first in digital and now it is slightly more expensive in the print version, is that the art has a distinctive pattern of being cut off mid page. Scan each page from top to bottom and you will see where the digital screen layout cut off and the digital page ended. It isn't a bad thing, just noticeable.

There are little details you have to appreciate in this story. Like the fact that the video game controller that Damian is playing with is reminiscent of an 8-bit Nintendo controller followed up by the Atari controller. The fact that Batman is this very brooding character and Damian is the one that comes off as colorful is a nice balance. Including Lobo in an all ages book, which is just a sight that gives me a laugh. All in all, a good book to enjoy by taking it at the light-hearted approach that you can.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Aw, shucks.
Buy Next Issue: I'm game for this E-rated.

The Walking Dead #112

The Walking Dead #112

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

Solicitation & Preview

Review
Damn that was good.

It can be hard at times, especially in this issue, when Rick does something so stupid without any thought to the outcome.

That is a major downfall of his character - he is still living in the moment as opposed to looking at the larger plan. Sure, he had his big breakthrough a while back and thought more positively about things. He has even arranged a huge plan with other tribes to go after Negan. But what does he do when he thinks a chance to come up and kill him arises?

Negan was right this issue - Rick is one stupid fucker. But I'll be damned if there is anyone who quickly flipped through the two page spread of Rick looking like he pulled the trigger on Negan. The next page after that - that was a work of art. Seriously, the pacing for that moment is something that Adlard should be proud of. That was something that turned the tide for this issue, and the art beautifully sent it there.

Notice that the two page spreads in this issue were the moments when Rick and the crew really were put against a wall. Damn that art was gorgeous.

So how does one get out of this situation? It is like there is one big chess match going on between these people, and Rick is always the one quickest to move. Sadly, that means he doesn't have the right planning. In actuality, Negan is the master chess player here. I'm pretty sure we will see the day he goes away, but not before some serious, serious damage is done to the crew.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Wow, what a dumbass.
Buy Next Issue: Done.

Ghosted #1

Ghosted #1 

Joshua Williamson: writer
Goran Sudzuka: artist
Miroslav Mrva: colorist

Solicitation & Preview

Review
Ghosted takes a very interesting premise and intrigues me. Strangely, this is a comic where the plot seems more interesting to me than any character in the story.

Let's not mince words, I think it is the intent to have a main character that isn't very well liked. I just don't feel any sympathy for the character as his actions outside of jail seem to indicate what kind of person he was before, and that he probably deserved to be in jail.

In that regard, I really feel like there has to be a catch or something coming up for Jackson T. Winters, our main lead. There is too much time devoted to him in the story than to the quick intro of the other characters that it makes me feel like something is up. Only time will tell.

The art by Sudzuka isn't too shabby. The book reads at a very well done and paced manner. Each panel contains enough details and backgrounds that I don't feel like there is a pose off going on between the characters. There is depth there, and a way to help guide the eye from panel to panel.

This series seems to me like it will be a very fast paced book. Something akin to the hits will keep coming and coming, if the pace of the story in this first issue is any indication. This is one of the recent Image #1s that I've read of late that I'm thankful I picked up, but I am a little hesitant in moving forward. There is an interesting premise here that I wonder if it is more a send off to an Ocean's Eleven type of movie, or going to be courted to Hollywood as the next type of Ocean's movie. There is a fine line there and I would rather see creators take advantage of telling a story in this medium as opposed to prepping it here for the jump to the big screen later.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 7/10
General Feeling After Reading: Intrigued.
Buy Next Issue: I'll be down with a three issue try.

Chew #35

Chew #35 

Written and lettered by John Layman
Drawn and coloured by Rob Guillory

Solicitation & Preview

Review
Chew just doesn't know when to stop.

Issue #35 takes us into the final chapter of Bad Apples, in which you finally see Tony winning. Friendship takes precedence, and there are some family heirlooms that are begging to be eaten.

Chew has had such a great run for me. Now you can start to see little things that were adding up from the beginning of the series make there way into this issue. It is the kind of thing that makes me want to read this book again from the beginning. In one shout out, there is mention of flight 815 (Lost) that helps to add to the impression that things were planned from the beginning.

For as much as Layman has done with the story, Guillory really deserves equal credit for the artwork. The guy is amazing and has a couple of well timed panels that just hit home and definitely shows that you cannot have the story of Chew based on the words alone.

And seriously, nice shout out to Saga with Olive's shirt in this issue. Now there is another series that should be having the next issue coming out soon.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 10/10
General Feeling After Reading: Aw. (the last page really hits you)
Buy Next Issue: Until the final one.

Batman #22

Batman #22

Scott Snyder: writer
Greg Capullo: penciller
Danny Miki: inker
Back up written by Scott Snyder & James Tynion IV
Art by Rafael Albuquerque

Solicitation & Preview

Review
On my first read through of the book, I came away thinking that it wasn't too bad. Snyder managed to impress me with a decent second issue into the series, much like in the same way that The Wake did. It was only through the course of sitting down and really thinking about the overall series that it brings a lot of plot holes to mind for me.

First up is the idea that Bruce Wayne jumped out of a window of a blimp and the Red Hood gang still commenced searching for him throughout the aircraft. Why would they need to keep searching for him? And are we really being led to believe that in that scuffle when Bruce's mask was taken away, and again when he was wearing the handkerchief over his face, that no one recognized him? I know that he is supposed to be dead at this point, so we do get some leeway, but there has to be points of reality sneaking in somewhere here.

Then let's go to Bruce being outed as alive by his uncle. The press just accepts this as the truth? I just don't buy that.

Part of telling a story set in the past is that you can't have situations that put one of the main characters in danger. We know how ti turns out, so the ending where Bruce's apartment is blown up really doesn't leave me wondering if he survived or not. What bothers me is that somehow the Red Hod gang knew exactly which apartment Bruce was using. Sure, they may have gotten the address from when Bruce told Red Hood where to take him in the taxi, but they couldn't have known exactly which one was his.

Like any story, there are flaws here. But is there enough entertainment to make me overlook those flaws? on the art side, yes. I'm a fan of Capullo and the last page where the bats chasing Bruce was awesome to see. But the story is just lacking something that excites me.

Grades
Words: 6/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Another round, please. This time put the alcohol in the drink.
Buy Next Issue: It's Batman, so yeah.

East of West #4

East of West #4 

Jonathan Hickman: writer
Nick Dragotta: artist

Solicitation & Preview

Review
Here is my "problem" with East of West: I can tell this is a comic best appreciated when taking it all in at once. So while the monthly appearance of it on my pull list is enjoyed, I am finding that I always have to play catch-up with it each month.

Is that a good problem, or what? Once we get past that nonsense, this book delivers in a big epic scope that truly takes a couple of reads to fully appreciate.

The thought just occurred to me that there is one excellent way to describe the writing: how Brian Azzarello should write. Azzarello is very sparing with putting words into character's mouths, and all the characters have a way of sounding the same. While the characters in East of West might not sound too different at times from each other, Hickman manages to capture an always pleasant play on words with each character without resorting to ending the page or panel with a character cut off in mid sentence only to have the rest of it finish elsewhere in a punny manner.

The art is a little tricky for me in this issue. Usually I enjoy every detail of each panel, but for this issue I was a little weird-ed out. I say that because it opened showing the grandness of where the battle for the issue will take place. It looked like a lot of room for the characters to wage war. Unfortunately, each of the following pages made the battle seem really up close and personal, which lost a big of the grand scale that this was supposed to be for me.

Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed it, but it just didn't have that feeling of scale that I thought it showed at first. There were some interesting framing and panel work done in this issue that showed the expansiveness of the individual violence, but there weren't too many times I felt I was one a huge battlefield. Granted, this is essentially an army versus 3 other characters, and maybe that was part of the reason for it being so up close to me.

I think this book will be one that I will enjoy more from when I get it in trade, which will probably happen after the first trade comes out.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Whew.
Buy Next Issue: Where will it go next?

Sheltered #1

Sheltered #1 

Co-created, written and lettered by Ed Brisson
Co-created and illustrated by Johnnie Christmas

Solicitation & Preview

Review
There is a lesson to be learned from what you teach your children. You try to teach them right from wrong, truth from fiction. But sometimes, consequently, they take things in the opposite or unintended direction than what you wanted.

Welcome to Sheltered.

This comic is great. Seriously. I highly recommend getting it and buying a copy for a friend as well. Don't believe me? Then download it from Comixology once Image puts the first issue out for free, then get the trade, then keep on getting it.

The comic delivers another excellent first issue from Ed Brisson, who I first saw in the Comeback limited series from Image not too long ago. Once again we have a nice introduction to characters, an excellent premise, and enough intrigue at the end to keep me hooked as a reader.

The art isn't exactly to my tastes, and it did take me a couple reads to get into it. The framing of each panel and layout for each page is spot on and easy on the eyes to follow. There is a slight awkwardness I feel with the art, but each character is expressive, unique, and backgrounds aren't just a solid color.

It will be interesting to see how this series plays out over the next couple of issues. It has a great setup that I think can only be brought down by leaving reality with these characters. You can tell already who will be the more grounded out of the kids left behind at the end of the issue, and you can tell who will probably be stepping up to challenge the new leadership and present future conflicts for everyone.

Let's see what happens next.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Excitement.
Buy Next Issue: Added to the pull list, now to see if it stays.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles New Animated Adventures #1

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles New Animated Adventures #1

Story: Kenny Byerly
Art: Dario Brizuela

Solicitation & Preview

Review
This is a different beast than what comes from the other Turtle title each month from IDW. Bear that in mind as we head through this.

With my familiarity with the Turtles, this isn't too bad. Now I haven't seen any of the new cartoon series that this comic is based on, so there are some tiny details that I am missing. First is knowing that April is training to be a ninja. Another is that Donatello is falling for her. The third thing that sticks out is Donatello's missing teach.

It isn't to say that not knowing the details behind these differences break the comic, but there is the sense that if you have seen the TV show then a lot of this will tie in and will be a great continuation of the world they are building. There is still a lot of entertainment to this issue in case you haven't seen it, but it still requires being knowledgeable about the typical Turtles lore and who is who.

Raphael still looks like the fighter with a temper. Leonardo is still the leader. Donatello is the brains, and Michelangelo is still the pizza loving one. And go!

I was told that the tone of this comic fits in with the show, and if that is so, then I must check out the show sometime. It seems fun and definitely has a style to it that is interesting. But is it worth the price of admission for some more turtles stories? I'm not married to the idea, but this issue does pack a punch and I would recommend it to anyone who has seen the show, wants to get a kid into comics, or if you are just a Turtles fan.

If I wasn't picking up the regular TMNT series, I would get this series instead if I wanted that trip through Turtle Nostalgia lane.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Worth it, but full.
Buy Next Issue: Nah. But this might be worth checking out in trades later or finding them in the discount bins.

Five Weapons #5

Five Weapons #5 

Created, written, illustrated, and lettered by Jimmie Robinson

Review
There isn't much that I can say about Five Weapons that doesn't end with this being an awesome book that you must check out.

Jimmie Robinson has outdone himself and created a world that I would be happy to read month in and month out. Thankfully, this limited series is blossoming into an ongoing. Although, I almost wonder how well it will do as an ongoing. I could see five issue chapters per story, but a regular ongoing just doesn't seem like a fit for a book that came with a good premise each issue.

There are twists and turns in this story that continue to delight, but doesn't bring much surprise. Some I expected but I was still plenty entertained throughout.

This book is regarded as an all-ages book, and I gotta say that despite the violence that is in it, there is much to be said about the story showing that there are other was beside violence to resolve conflict. The best thing about the book is that it could easily be translated into a children's movie, and totally work.

The comic shop probably doesn't have all five issues available, so put this on your list of trades to get. This is a comic that would serve as a great introduction to people of all ages as to what can happen in a creator owned book.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 10/10
General Feeling After Reading: Belly full of goodness.
Buy Next Issue: When the ongoing starts in January, I will be there.

Batman Incorporated #12

Batman Incorporated #12

Grant Morrison: writer
Chris Burnham: artist

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I jumped into the Transmetropolitan series about 1/3 of the way through it. Enjoyed it thoroughly until the last few issues at the end. But with time and perspective, I've been able to enjoy them.

The problem with the issues towards the end is that the comic started going full steam ahead towards the ending. It wasn't necessarily pacing itself for the individual issue, it was looking at the more broad strokes of telling the completed story at the end.

That is where this series is now for me. Everything is just building up for the finale and there are too many beats still left to go. Yea, we will have our individual moments that should come shining through and have an impact, but I think you have to wait you can read all the issues at once to really appreciate the scope of the comic.

For me, the key to this issue is that I am still entertained by it. There were a couple of points that helped to have things make a little more sense, but there is still a trick or two that Morrison will have that will throw a wrench into everything.

But overall, and this is key here, I am still entertained by the story. I don't have that feeling of being committed to the series because I've been following it for so long so now I have to finish it kicking and screaming. I'm still looking to be entertained and to get some enjoyment out of it. A second read through of the series once it is finished might bring about a different opinion, but for right now, I am satisfied.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Skeptical, but hopeful.
Buy Next Issue: Let's see how this bad boy ends.

Satellite Sam #1

Satellite Sam #1 

Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Howard Chaykin

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I'm trying to remember any Matt Fraction books that I've picked up before, and I think I am only limited to some Daredevil comics from after Brubaker's run ended. Nothing about it really popped for me from that book years ago, mostly because after Bendis and Brubaker, well really how can you top that?

Howard Chaykin is a familiar name, but again I can't just place any titles to the name nor can I come up with some cover images he has done that stick out in my mind. But the cover, and the concept of the show, grabbed my attention. Since I hadn't really gotten into either of these creators before, I decided to take a stab at what this book could bring.

My initial reaction is that this book isn't too shabby.

The initial issue hit all the points that I like about issue number ones in regards to setting up the characters, having a great overall plot, and include a hook that makes me want to come back. in all those regards, the book did fairly well.

There is just something about this comic that is intriguing, and I can tell that there is some talent there to carry the weight of the comic's premise without going too far off the deep end. If the next issue is able to pull off a stunt like how the producers of the TV show the comic is following did, then I think that this book will be one to watch. It is almost like this comic had a nice setup, but is saving the big reveal and surprise for the second issue.

I think keeping the art colorless is a really nice choice. I can see where adding color would be helpful in some areas, but I think the tone of the comic matches the black and white approach.

This is a comic I would add to a watch list. I think it make take two or three more issues, but that is when the fireworks will really start to fly with everything. I think I'll stick around for a few issues while it does this, but if I don't see something that really registers with me by  issue 6, then I think it will be one story arc and then done.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 8/10
General Feeling After Reading: Reluctantly optimistic.
Buy Next Issue: I'll check it out for now.

Detective Comics #22

Detective Comics #22 

Written by John Layman
Art by Jason Fabok
Art by Andy Clarke

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I'm kinda surprised about this issue.

Let's make it clear - that isn't a necessarily good surprise. There are elements of the story that just seem repetitive. Take the main story - I get that this Caldwell guy is supposed to be some sort of mirror image of Batman, but it just comes across as predictable and boring. That really hasn't been something I've used to describe Layman's writing before.

I mean come on, isn't it obvious what the connection is between the villain and Batman? And the art is good enough, but not good enough to distract me from the story. The art serves it's purpose for this issue, and that is about the only way to describe it.

The back up is much better and more entertaining for me than the main story. We follow Man-Bat as he figures out that his wife is helping to cover for him and to try and take over his research. It is a sorta twist on the last story line with Penguin's number one help covering his tracks but really wanting everything for himself. This time it looks as if the help is trying to make things better and include the helped in on things.

I don't know. This issue just really felt like sub-standard stuff for me. Just like the Dark Knight title, i wonder why should I care about the comic and pick it up. Unfortunately this comic is headed towards that area and is in major need of some excitement.

Grades
Words: 5/10
Pictures: 5/10
General Feeling After Reading: Meh.
Buy Next Issue: I suppose, but I'm hopeful for a twist of some type of some sort of improvement.

Jupiter's Legacy #2

Jupiter's Legacy #2

Mark Millar & Frank Quitely: writer, co-creators, artist

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I'll admit that I cheated a little and read the first two issues of this series back to back. Looking back, that is the way this series should be read.

The book itself isn't too bad. I enjoy Quitely's work and Millar has had a couple of hits for me. For the most part, I just felt like the comic was very shallow in a way. The characters felt generic and the story had some cool moments, but even now I struggle to really remember much of it.

I get the same sense for this book like I do for a lot of Brubaker and Philips' work on Fatale - I know it is good stuff, but for some reason it just doesn't excite me. So as far as a full on review goes, I really can't do it.

Grades
Words: 7/10
Pictures: 7/10
General Feeling After Reading: Blah.
Buy Next Issue: I will see if the third issue changes my mind, otherwise I may just not move forward with it.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #23

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #23 

Story: Kevin Eastman, Bobby Curnow, & Tom Waltz
Script: Tom Waltz
Art: Mateus Santolouco with Dan Duncan, Ross Campbell, Andy Kuhn, Ben Bates, & Kevin Eastman

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I hate the old "brainwashed" addition to any story. What is the point of it? Are you just trying to have your hero character do bad things and have an excuse that "hey, they were mind controlled at the time, so it don't count" shtick?

More or less, character become brainwashed in an instant or off panel. The only reason while I have some respect for Leonardo's brainwashing in this issue is because it was done it a way that is tasteful. We actually go through the brainwashing with him, which is why this instance of brainwashing the hero gets some respect from me.

Kitsune, who performs the brainwashing of Leonardo, acts upon the insecurities of a teenager burdened with too much responsibility. It starts to make logical sense why Leonardo would chose to side with Shredder towards the end of the process. I also liked the fact that we got past turtle artists to cover the brainwashing parts of the comic where we go inside Leo's mind. For an incident where Dan Duncan wrote the original story, he comes back to lend art duties for the altered version of that scene, and so on and so forth with the other artists and their respective scenes. It was a nice touch and felt like there was a level of detail and respect given to the previous artists.

It is really hard to pick out which artist I enjoyed seeing more from this issue. Each double page spread of goodness was just thoroughly enjoyed.

In reading this issue over and over, I wonder if the brainwashing really worked or not. Yes, Leonardo called Shredder "master," but for all intents and purposes he could have felt like he was waking up from a dream. So will there be any permanent hits to his psyche?

City Fall has been bringing the hits along, and it has only been two issues. This makes me excited for what may come next, and it really makes me wonder where the story will go if it keeps getting turned on it's head like it has been the past two issues. Either way, I know I will be along for the ride.

Grades
Words: 8/10
Pictures: 10/10 - so many bits of goodness.
General Feeling After Reading: Flabbergasted.
Buy Next Issue: In a heartbeat.

Judge Dredd #8

Judge Dredd #8 

Writer: Duane Swierczynski
Artist: Nelson Daniel & Antonio Fuso

Solicitation & Preview

Review
I've been reading the Complete Casefiles for Judge Dredd for some time now. They are every Judge Dredd story ever made and put into one nice, big book. After reading a couple of them, I have seen where the story in the new IDW series gets a lot of influence.

And I'm really enjoying it.

This issue doesn't really feel like a conclusion to a story arc. About the only thing it really does to wrap things up is to explain why the robot uprising happened. In that regard, the story is just beginning as we jump into the next story arc immediately.

Let's focus on that back up for a minute. The back ups in this book have continued to really show the world around Dredd, and this issue makes no exception. There is just a general weirdness and flexibility with the story that you can go into when you think of deranged mutants across a hostile wasteland. The use of this particular mutant's "abilities" or "insanity" was nicely done and show not only through words but through the artwork.

There is a fast pace to the story telling within Dredd that becomes more evident to me as I read the comic and the older comics. It is a pace that is hard to nail down correctly, but is something that Swierczynski does in spades. And Kudos to Daniel for making each panel count. It is a pace that reminds me of a Chew comic where the story grabs you and takes you along for this insane ride that moves along faster than I can predict an outcome. That is the sign of a story that intrigues me and will keep me coming back each month.

Grades
Words: 9/10
Pictures: 9/10
General Feeling After Reading: Give me more!
Buy Next Issue: Shut up and take my money!

Batman/Superman #1

Batman/Superman #1

Writer: Greg Pak
Artists: Jae Lee (1-18)
Ben Oliver (19-25)

Solicitation & Preview

Review
Mind controlled heroes fighting each other before teaming up. Insert named artist who only does the first 18 pages and has someone else finish them in a style that distinctively different than the main artist.

Dull. Boring. Predictable. Some pretty pictures, but not enough to warrant making this on the pull list.

This is only, what, like the 20th "first meeting" of these two characters?

Aside form Jae Lee's art, there really isn't much of anything that this issue has that makes me want to keep on buying it. You have a guest artist on the first issue to help finish things up is a sign that you shouldn't be on a monthly book. Each page where the heroes appear looks to be a set up for a poster of the character. While not a bad thing, I can't imagine that a whole book of poses like that would sound good to carry a whole book. Then again, it seems to do wonders for Jim Lee.

Actually, one funny thing to note is that this comic included something that I would have left out completely - sound effects. There is enough being told in the art itself, when the heroes aren't posing, that you don't need to cover it up with giant letters for a sound effect.

Greg Pak has never really hit me as a writer. There just hasn't been a story that he has done that has really sold me on a book that he has participated on. It doesn't make him a bad writer, but using stereotypical superheroes fighting each other tropes on the first issue of a team up book is a terrible choice.

Grades
Words: 4/10
Pictures: 7/10
General Feeling After Reading: Bored now.
Buy Next Issue: Negative.