Ok bit late picking this latest haul up due to Christmas related Shenanigans but it was worth waiting for happily with some excellent books coming in, including DC's first major event since Rebirth.
The list;
Justice League vs Suicide Squad #1
Aquaman #13
Nightwing #11
Superman #13
Justice League #11
Green Lanterns #13
Batman #13
Green Arrow #13
Trinity #4
He-Man/Thundercats #3
Uncanny X-Men#16
My pick this week obviously went to JvS #1 but it was very nearly Aquaman #13. JvS edges it for me because there was number of things it did well that I really liked, first off the art by Jason Fabok is just exceptional here, so so good. I love how it opens with the set up of all these high powered villains being sprung, this bit is really well executed. I am kind of annoyed that they spoiled the big reveal of it being Maxwell Lord in their preview but I am not that upset because its fricking Maxwell Lord and I love him as a villain! In fact I am in love with this whole team in particular Dr Polaris he just isn't used enough IMO and I loved Johnny Sorrow, have done ever since the JSA run by Johns, I just think he has a really cool look, talking of cool looks the real Lobo is back and thats awesome news. The build up to the confrontation of the 2 teams is nicely done too and it has left me looking forward to seeing how this all plays out.
4/5
Elsewhere in comics;
Aquaman #13 Just excellent stuff, I always look forward to this book, the story is excellent Abnett is killing it here. Arthur manages to convince the JL of his innocence they take his evidence to the US military who dont believe a word of it, I am guessing someone here is a N.E.M.O agent but we will see, hostilities continue and a N.E.M.O Sub is destroyed but it has been rigged so to the US it looks like its one of theirs.
Nightwing #11 This is ok, more of Dick settling into Bludhaven, and uncovering just how corrupt it is, I like the inclusion of an AA support group for reformed C level villains a nice touch.
Superman #13 Conclusion of the Frankenstein mini arc, still one of the most enjoyable books in the market
Justice League #11 this is the wrap up of the mini arc involving the super computer hacking program that sets the JL up against an AWESOME team of villains, see this is the arc this book should have started with to get people on board. Enjoyable but not loving on the art though it was really weak in this issue and I would like to see someone like Lee or Farbok on this book instead.
Green Lanterns #13 I continue to dig this book more each week, real improvement after a shaky start, we find more about the phantom lantern and Volthoom here and we have the obligatory cliff hange rending as the Phantom Lantern explodes.
Batman #13 The conclusion of the I am Suicide arc and not before time, this just hasn't worked for me, we learn that Batman has outmanoeuvred Bane and Catwoman is a plant, also we found out why he brought in the ventriloquist he seems to be immune to Psycho Pirate, the issue ends big though as Bane is left beaten and in his rage demands VENOM, oh yeah that's how I like my Bane drugged to the eye balls.
Green Arrow #13 The framing of Ollie continues, we get a better look at the right wing sleazy fly eating (yup) politician and the book ends with Ollie surrounded by thousands of angry football fans after he is framed for shooting their star player in the back.
Trinity #4 Ok this story hasnt worked for me, but it does give me what I wanted by the end of this issue. We go into Dianas dream sequence now where she is back on Themyscira I wasn't particularly bothered about this it was ok but nothing amazing. Then we get the big reveal at the end that Mongul is behind this, hell to the yeah! I assumed/hoped he would be involved due to the black mercys but you never know.
He-Man/Thundercats #3 Just so much fun, excellent over the top art and dialogue, whats not to like? I am having a blast reading this. Lion O and the Thundercats take Skelator down and take back the Sword of Greyskull only to try and return it to He-Man only to find he is dead!
Uncanny X-Men #16 IvX tie in, whilst Jean Grey and the Cuckoos keep Karnak in check Fantomex takes control of the super sentinel making plant, turning his back on the X-Men he decides he wants to use this for his own gain.
Wednesday 28 December 2016
Sunday 18 December 2016
Pick of the week 14/12/2016 Inhumans Vs X-Men #1
A good week loads to read, which means no food for my kids this week, there was some great action here, as well as a few disappointing issues, by and large though the quality was high.
The List;
Red Hood and the Outlaws # 5
Action Comics #969
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #10
The Flash #12
Superwoman #5
Inhumans vs X-Men #1
Detective Comics #946
New Super-Man #6
Suicide Squad #8
Deathsttroke #8
Supergirl #4
Wonder Woman #12
My pick in the end goes to Inhumans vs X-Men #1 personally speaking speaking a good X-Men book will trump most things, X-Men are the reason I got into comics in the first place. Although the X-Comics weren't the first books I owned or read but they were the first comics I truly LOVED and actively collected. This book works on a few levels the1st is that its a good ensemble piece with action and intrigue, another thing that makes this book is for everything the X-Men have gone through over the last 10 years there's something very satisfying about the way the story plays out seeing the X-Men get the upper hand over the Inhumans.
This issue sets up the mini series nicely with some of the slower set up pieces already covered in issue #0, it kicks off with Hank at Cyclops grave, this is a nice opening even if it does make me boil with rage that they actually pulled the trigger on Cyke easily the greatest X-Man of them all. Heres where we find out what Hanks big news is... the representatives of the remaining key mutant groups are all here, Emma Frost, Magneto, Young Beast, Storm, Forge, Old man Logan and Rogue, the bombshell is there is no cure, the Terrigen mists will eventually wipe out all mutant life on earth, the solution Hank proposes is to escape the planet and avoid conflict whilst saving the species this way. Needless to say this is not well received , Emma drops the news that they have been planning for 8 months as to how to take out the Inhumans. They hold a vote on what to do and Storm, Magneto, Young Beast and Logan all vote to attack and at least go down fighting, Forge is pro but abstains and Rogue is against it, rather oddly (though you could say that a lot about Hanks decisions these days) Hank goes to warn the Inhumans to be taken down by Storm. What comes next is a series of set pieces as the X-Men take the offensive against the Inhumans, in a well done scene using Dazzler Emma takes down Blackbolt Dazzler absorbs the power of his voice and sends it right back at him, Fantomex takes out Lockjaw and Jean Grey takes out Karnak but by far the most satisfying is Magneto taking out the Inhuman flagship after posing as Mutant refugee he is "rescued" he then literally tears the ship apart form the inside out after telling them "You don't save mutants I do!" I really liked that bit though loving Mags as I do I am a bit biased, the issue closes with a huge mutant strike team made up of pretty much all the X-teams approaching Attilan with Medusa and Johnny Storm waiting for them.
4/5
Elsewhere in comics;
The Good
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #10 This was so nearly my pick of the week, Hal is still in emerald space Abin Sur and great lanterns of the past are all there, at the same time summoned by Ganthet Kyle Rayner tries to rescue Hal, meanwhile John and the rest of the corp are still trapped by Braniac all great so far. Where this book lost me is with the last page reveal, that its not really Brainiac but some of his drones working for Larfleeze. Its ok but what I was really digging about this was that it was a story which didn't just involve another of the Lanterns corps. So its a good issue from a book I really dig but not quite PoTW.
Superwoman #5 I like this a lot more than I ever thought I would, I was expecting it to be Lois Lane from the solicitations but Lana has actually been fine, what has made it that much more enjoyable is top notch writing AND the inclusion of John Henry Irons and Bibbo! Fricking Bibbo I love his inclusion.
Wonder Woman #12 This was another book that was a close contender for PoTW. WW is a book that has finally clicked with me, its the year 1 story this week and its just a really good book which ends with the big bad being unveiled as Ares god of war, the art is fantastic here top stuff.
New Super-Man #6 This book is just so good, so much fun, I love Keenan as the Chinese superman and the Chinese Batman and Wonder Woman are excellent. This is the end of this arc and it sees tragedy as the super trio take down the Chinese freedom fighters only for Super-Mans father is killed (or is he) I really hope this book has legs as so far it has been excellent.
Red Hood and the Outlaws # 5 Good issue, I am enjoying what they have been doing with this book so far, I like Jasons relationship with Bizzarro and the choice of Black Mask as a villain, good stuff.
Action Comics #969 This continues to be a good book, I am intrigued to see where this arc goes, Luthors life is in peril as it is claimed he will go onto become Darkseids heir, and Superman can't let him die so he follows himoff world, I have no doubt shenanigans will ensue.
Detective Comics #946 This is the best book so far in this arc, which is not saying a massive deal as it hasn't done much for me, despite me like the premise of a team of villains being formed from people who have been collateral damage from various super hero throwdowns. The Bat family go on the offensive and take them all down one by one until the surprising swerve at the end with Spoiler siding with the 1st Victim.
The not so good
Suicide Squad #8 This was fine, its Jim Lee art but I just really do not care about any of these characters, Captain Boomerang is back and Hulk-Zod is put back in his box.
Deathstroke #8 - The best book so far in this run but I really just do not care about this book or any of the characters, I think I will be dropping this one.
The Flash #12 - This shade arc is done which is good, it started fine, but a combination of the different - inferior artists has not helped it, its just been a bit of a throaway mini story which is fine but its not been as interesting as it initially seemed and the art in this issue is just awful, I hated it, the best thing about this was Barry asking Iris out at the end, bring back Carmine Di Giandomenico immediately!
Supergirl #4 Meh I don't care, I don't know why I am buying this one, so I am going to stop.
The List;
Red Hood and the Outlaws # 5
Action Comics #969
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #10
The Flash #12
Superwoman #5
Inhumans vs X-Men #1
Detective Comics #946
New Super-Man #6
Suicide Squad #8
Deathsttroke #8
Supergirl #4
Wonder Woman #12
My pick in the end goes to Inhumans vs X-Men #1 personally speaking speaking a good X-Men book will trump most things, X-Men are the reason I got into comics in the first place. Although the X-Comics weren't the first books I owned or read but they were the first comics I truly LOVED and actively collected. This book works on a few levels the1st is that its a good ensemble piece with action and intrigue, another thing that makes this book is for everything the X-Men have gone through over the last 10 years there's something very satisfying about the way the story plays out seeing the X-Men get the upper hand over the Inhumans.
This issue sets up the mini series nicely with some of the slower set up pieces already covered in issue #0, it kicks off with Hank at Cyclops grave, this is a nice opening even if it does make me boil with rage that they actually pulled the trigger on Cyke easily the greatest X-Man of them all. Heres where we find out what Hanks big news is... the representatives of the remaining key mutant groups are all here, Emma Frost, Magneto, Young Beast, Storm, Forge, Old man Logan and Rogue, the bombshell is there is no cure, the Terrigen mists will eventually wipe out all mutant life on earth, the solution Hank proposes is to escape the planet and avoid conflict whilst saving the species this way. Needless to say this is not well received , Emma drops the news that they have been planning for 8 months as to how to take out the Inhumans. They hold a vote on what to do and Storm, Magneto, Young Beast and Logan all vote to attack and at least go down fighting, Forge is pro but abstains and Rogue is against it, rather oddly (though you could say that a lot about Hanks decisions these days) Hank goes to warn the Inhumans to be taken down by Storm. What comes next is a series of set pieces as the X-Men take the offensive against the Inhumans, in a well done scene using Dazzler Emma takes down Blackbolt Dazzler absorbs the power of his voice and sends it right back at him, Fantomex takes out Lockjaw and Jean Grey takes out Karnak but by far the most satisfying is Magneto taking out the Inhuman flagship after posing as Mutant refugee he is "rescued" he then literally tears the ship apart form the inside out after telling them "You don't save mutants I do!" I really liked that bit though loving Mags as I do I am a bit biased, the issue closes with a huge mutant strike team made up of pretty much all the X-teams approaching Attilan with Medusa and Johnny Storm waiting for them.
4/5
Elsewhere in comics;
The Good
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #10 This was so nearly my pick of the week, Hal is still in emerald space Abin Sur and great lanterns of the past are all there, at the same time summoned by Ganthet Kyle Rayner tries to rescue Hal, meanwhile John and the rest of the corp are still trapped by Braniac all great so far. Where this book lost me is with the last page reveal, that its not really Brainiac but some of his drones working for Larfleeze. Its ok but what I was really digging about this was that it was a story which didn't just involve another of the Lanterns corps. So its a good issue from a book I really dig but not quite PoTW.
Superwoman #5 I like this a lot more than I ever thought I would, I was expecting it to be Lois Lane from the solicitations but Lana has actually been fine, what has made it that much more enjoyable is top notch writing AND the inclusion of John Henry Irons and Bibbo! Fricking Bibbo I love his inclusion.
Wonder Woman #12 This was another book that was a close contender for PoTW. WW is a book that has finally clicked with me, its the year 1 story this week and its just a really good book which ends with the big bad being unveiled as Ares god of war, the art is fantastic here top stuff.
New Super-Man #6 This book is just so good, so much fun, I love Keenan as the Chinese superman and the Chinese Batman and Wonder Woman are excellent. This is the end of this arc and it sees tragedy as the super trio take down the Chinese freedom fighters only for Super-Mans father is killed (or is he) I really hope this book has legs as so far it has been excellent.
Red Hood and the Outlaws # 5 Good issue, I am enjoying what they have been doing with this book so far, I like Jasons relationship with Bizzarro and the choice of Black Mask as a villain, good stuff.
Action Comics #969 This continues to be a good book, I am intrigued to see where this arc goes, Luthors life is in peril as it is claimed he will go onto become Darkseids heir, and Superman can't let him die so he follows himoff world, I have no doubt shenanigans will ensue.
Detective Comics #946 This is the best book so far in this arc, which is not saying a massive deal as it hasn't done much for me, despite me like the premise of a team of villains being formed from people who have been collateral damage from various super hero throwdowns. The Bat family go on the offensive and take them all down one by one until the surprising swerve at the end with Spoiler siding with the 1st Victim.
The not so good
Suicide Squad #8 This was fine, its Jim Lee art but I just really do not care about any of these characters, Captain Boomerang is back and Hulk-Zod is put back in his box.
Deathstroke #8 - The best book so far in this run but I really just do not care about this book or any of the characters, I think I will be dropping this one.
The Flash #12 - This shade arc is done which is good, it started fine, but a combination of the different - inferior artists has not helped it, its just been a bit of a throaway mini story which is fine but its not been as interesting as it initially seemed and the art in this issue is just awful, I hated it, the best thing about this was Barry asking Iris out at the end, bring back Carmine Di Giandomenico immediately!
Supergirl #4 Meh I don't care, I don't know why I am buying this one, so I am going to stop.
Tuesday 13 December 2016
Pick of the Week 07/12/2016 Aquaman #12
This was a slightly light week on comics in terms of numbers, but in terms of quality it was an absolute delight, with all titles really having strong contenders for my ultra prestigious PoTW!
The List;
Aquaman #12
Superman #12
Batman #12
Nightwing #10
Justice League #10
Green Arrow #12
Green Lanterns #12
So whilst it was a tough week I have to go with Aquaman this week and not before time, Abnetts work on this book has been absolutely stellar and this title has been a revelation since Rebirth and its one of the titles I look forward to every week, and its just been a matter of time before it was PoTW. They continue the arc that began in the 1st issue, Black Manta is trying to destroy Arthur Curry, along the way he became the head of N.E.M.O and as we saw in the last issue he wants to destroy him by turning the world against him. Last issue was superb and it saw the JL rally around and visit a hurt Arthur after the Shaggy Man throw down, but at the close we saw N.E.M.O troops masquerading as Atlanteans attack the US. This issue continues straight way with this, the troops using stolen tech from Atlantis decimate multiple targets turning the US well and truly against Atlantis. What's great about this is the whilst its a fairly basic story its been built brilliantly over 12 issues and you really find yourself pulling for Arthur to clear his name, the injustice of how the world is treating him and buying into Mantas games really leaves you pulling for him and it is going to make the eventual comeuppance that Manta will surely receive all the more satisfying, I think Manta has been built up brilliant during this arc. The art is really strong here too and there were 2 scenes in particular that made me smile, a giant sea beast stolen by N.E.M.O eats a battle ship and then in a scene reminiscent of Mega shark vs Giant Octopus leaps into the air and eats a plane too! The issue closes with the US declaring war on Atlantis and the Justice League bursting in to take Arthur down... oh and did I mention there are US shark commandos!
4/5
Elsewhere in comics
Superman #12 Its no secret I have been loving this book, I think Tomasi has just been smashing it out of the park, and this is another really fun issue but Supes takes a backseat here to Frankenstein Agent of Shade! He's hunting an alien who happens to be in disguise as Lois boss at her 2nd job at the local paper, Superman gets involved and we get an excellent thrown down with some brilliant action shots, I find Mahnkes work a bit hit and miss, he nails every scene with Supes and F-Stein but I have to say I do not like the art for Lois Lane in this issue at all.
Batman #12 I still am not really getting into this story, and I love Bane and Batman it should have been an easy sell, that being said the art in this issue is just spectacular, Mikel Janins work is fan-bastard-tastic, I could not have been the only one who wanted Batman to fight the Sharks, maybe use some kind of repellent ;-). There an amazing spread of him scaling the tower, all in all he must take out 100 cronies here and it looks sensational, I really don't like the he became Batman rather than commit suicide. The last page with Bane looming over Batman with Catwoman on his arm is just wonderful.
Nightwing #10 Yes Dick is back in Bludhaven, loving that give him his own space and let him be a hero, nothing amazing here but an enjoyable issue.
Justice League #10 For my money this may have been the best issue of this book so far, I relaly enjoyed this a price on their heads the Justice League throwdown with a collection of Classic JL rogues including Giganta, Mammoth, Double Down, fricking Psimon and Plastique among others the issue closers with Amazo on the scene! Loved this, it was a lot of fun which a Justice League book should be, the art was fine, serviceable but it didn't grab me which is a shame.
Green Arrow #12 Otto Schmidt should just draw everything, I get really excited when I see him on the cover, I really hate the switching I would kill for this to be a monthly book with Schmidt on full time art duties! Good issue I like how the frame up comes in killing every one Green Arrow has interacted with, and there's also a few more shots taken at Trump with a corrupt politician who used to know Ollie featuring.
Green Lanterns #12 I am really starting to enjoy this book, I am digging the deeply flawed Phantom Lantern character, Eduardo Pansica does a fantastic job with the facial expressions he is making when switching between Lantern Corp powers, good stuff!
The List;
Aquaman #12
Superman #12
Batman #12
Nightwing #10
Justice League #10
Green Arrow #12
Green Lanterns #12
So whilst it was a tough week I have to go with Aquaman this week and not before time, Abnetts work on this book has been absolutely stellar and this title has been a revelation since Rebirth and its one of the titles I look forward to every week, and its just been a matter of time before it was PoTW. They continue the arc that began in the 1st issue, Black Manta is trying to destroy Arthur Curry, along the way he became the head of N.E.M.O and as we saw in the last issue he wants to destroy him by turning the world against him. Last issue was superb and it saw the JL rally around and visit a hurt Arthur after the Shaggy Man throw down, but at the close we saw N.E.M.O troops masquerading as Atlanteans attack the US. This issue continues straight way with this, the troops using stolen tech from Atlantis decimate multiple targets turning the US well and truly against Atlantis. What's great about this is the whilst its a fairly basic story its been built brilliantly over 12 issues and you really find yourself pulling for Arthur to clear his name, the injustice of how the world is treating him and buying into Mantas games really leaves you pulling for him and it is going to make the eventual comeuppance that Manta will surely receive all the more satisfying, I think Manta has been built up brilliant during this arc. The art is really strong here too and there were 2 scenes in particular that made me smile, a giant sea beast stolen by N.E.M.O eats a battle ship and then in a scene reminiscent of Mega shark vs Giant Octopus leaps into the air and eats a plane too! The issue closes with the US declaring war on Atlantis and the Justice League bursting in to take Arthur down... oh and did I mention there are US shark commandos!
4/5
Elsewhere in comics
Superman #12 Its no secret I have been loving this book, I think Tomasi has just been smashing it out of the park, and this is another really fun issue but Supes takes a backseat here to Frankenstein Agent of Shade! He's hunting an alien who happens to be in disguise as Lois boss at her 2nd job at the local paper, Superman gets involved and we get an excellent thrown down with some brilliant action shots, I find Mahnkes work a bit hit and miss, he nails every scene with Supes and F-Stein but I have to say I do not like the art for Lois Lane in this issue at all.
Batman #12 I still am not really getting into this story, and I love Bane and Batman it should have been an easy sell, that being said the art in this issue is just spectacular, Mikel Janins work is fan-bastard-tastic, I could not have been the only one who wanted Batman to fight the Sharks, maybe use some kind of repellent ;-). There an amazing spread of him scaling the tower, all in all he must take out 100 cronies here and it looks sensational, I really don't like the he became Batman rather than commit suicide. The last page with Bane looming over Batman with Catwoman on his arm is just wonderful.
Nightwing #10 Yes Dick is back in Bludhaven, loving that give him his own space and let him be a hero, nothing amazing here but an enjoyable issue.
Justice League #10 For my money this may have been the best issue of this book so far, I relaly enjoyed this a price on their heads the Justice League throwdown with a collection of Classic JL rogues including Giganta, Mammoth, Double Down, fricking Psimon and Plastique among others the issue closers with Amazo on the scene! Loved this, it was a lot of fun which a Justice League book should be, the art was fine, serviceable but it didn't grab me which is a shame.
Green Arrow #12 Otto Schmidt should just draw everything, I get really excited when I see him on the cover, I really hate the switching I would kill for this to be a monthly book with Schmidt on full time art duties! Good issue I like how the frame up comes in killing every one Green Arrow has interacted with, and there's also a few more shots taken at Trump with a corrupt politician who used to know Ollie featuring.
Green Lanterns #12 I am really starting to enjoy this book, I am digging the deeply flawed Phantom Lantern character, Eduardo Pansica does a fantastic job with the facial expressions he is making when switching between Lantern Corp powers, good stuff!
Sunday 4 December 2016
Pick of the week 30/11/2016 Batman Annual #1
Wow really slow week in comics, which for my bank balance was a welcome respite, some great reads here though but there was only going to be one winner and that is the brilliant Batman Annual #1.
The List;
Batman Annual #1
Superman Annual #1
JLA #10
Suicide Squad #7
Extraordinary X-Men #16
Inhumans vs X-men #0
This SHOULD have been a hard choice given we have some quality offerings here, but it really wasn't this issue is just wonderful. It takes me back to a more innocent time, what you have here is a collection of short festively themed Batman stories by a some of the top writers in DC comics today, you have Tom King, Scott Snyder, Paul Dini, Steve Orlando and Scott Wilson. I have been guilty of asking myself does Tom King really get Batman? Well on this evidence he clearly does his effort opens the proceedings with a wonderful short story of the orgins of Ace the Bathound. Things are so grim sometimes that we forget that comics can just be fun and heartwarming and thats just what this is. We see Ace as an abandoned feral, vicious attack dog forgotten about by the Joker, Bruce doesnt really want anything to do with him but Alfred insists on taking him in and slowly but surely training the anger out of him, ultimately love and patience win out. Alfred is clearly doing this for Bruce, its his present to him, this fact goes right over Bruces head however. This is just a perfectly written, fun, festive story I loved it. Scott Snyders effort involves Batman breaking patrol to be wooed by a gang of acrobats entertaining the people of Gotham for free, Bats is seeming assuming the worst, waiting for something to go wrong the whole time but nothing does, they end up even making him smile its just a nice short tale. Next up Paul Dini hits us with a proper throwback story which could have been published in the 90's. Basically Harley Quinn shows up Bats grabs here with the intension of kicking her out of town she spends the whole time trying to awaken his Christmas spirit in him, this one was really fun. Steve Orlandos effort sees the introduction of a new interesting looking character called the Stag, I am intruiged by this one, but it did break the tone of the book a bit, finally Scott Wilson closes things with a short adventure where Haunter escapes Arkham and teams up with Scarecrow only to be outwited by Batman in the end.
Overall this is just a fun read, that reminded me of being a kid and it was just wonderfull.
5/5
Elsewhere in comics...
Superman Annual #1 - This was excellent, we get a really surprisings confrontation as Superman has it out with Swampthing of all people, this was interesting as Superman coming from an alternate earth is actually damaging this earth with his prescence, the 2 duke it out before Swampthing eventually helps Clark accept this earth as his home and assists him in altering his vibrational frequency. This was fun to read and their were some great action pages here and some really innovative use of Swampthings powers.
JLA #10- I can't really stress how much I do not care about this story, its clealy a delayed title everything thats happening is out of sync with current continuity, full disclosure this was added to my pull list by accident. I am really just waiting for the new JLA team coming in 2017 which just looks excellent.
Suicide Squad #7 - I am starting to enjoy this, we have the idea for this story is that everyone else in the SS is driven mad but Harley is driven sane, there are some nice action bits and its a interesting to see Harleen Quinzel with all her faculties, we also learnthat Boomerang isn't as dead as we thought. I am not however enjoying how short the main story is to make room for these back ups, I know its to make sure Jim Lee is on time and able to honour the double shipping but honestly I would prefer 1 book a month that was all Jim Lee.
Extraordinary X-Men #16 - This issue is about tying up loose plot threads in time for Inhumans vs X-Men and it does so really well. Apocalypse is seeming destroyed (that never takes, nor should it hes awesome) but not till he is tricked into freeing Colossus from his influence (Huzzah Peteys back) Magic defeats the big bad at great personal cost and the X-Men accept that they have to leave Limbo and return to the world.
Inhumans vs X-men #0 - This is setting the scene issue for the mini series but I thought it did so really well, Emma is building a strike team to take out the Inhumans and while this is going on Beast is trying to find a cure for M-Pox, we end up of a cliff hanger whereby Beast makes a shocking discovery which he hides from the Inhumans and summons all of the X-Teams to meet him, what the discovery is we are left wondering about.
Whoo I am officially upto date!
Batman Annual #1
Superman Annual #1
JLA #10
Suicide Squad #7
Extraordinary X-Men #16
Inhumans vs X-men #0
This SHOULD have been a hard choice given we have some quality offerings here, but it really wasn't this issue is just wonderful. It takes me back to a more innocent time, what you have here is a collection of short festively themed Batman stories by a some of the top writers in DC comics today, you have Tom King, Scott Snyder, Paul Dini, Steve Orlando and Scott Wilson. I have been guilty of asking myself does Tom King really get Batman? Well on this evidence he clearly does his effort opens the proceedings with a wonderful short story of the orgins of Ace the Bathound. Things are so grim sometimes that we forget that comics can just be fun and heartwarming and thats just what this is. We see Ace as an abandoned feral, vicious attack dog forgotten about by the Joker, Bruce doesnt really want anything to do with him but Alfred insists on taking him in and slowly but surely training the anger out of him, ultimately love and patience win out. Alfred is clearly doing this for Bruce, its his present to him, this fact goes right over Bruces head however. This is just a perfectly written, fun, festive story I loved it. Scott Snyders effort involves Batman breaking patrol to be wooed by a gang of acrobats entertaining the people of Gotham for free, Bats is seeming assuming the worst, waiting for something to go wrong the whole time but nothing does, they end up even making him smile its just a nice short tale. Next up Paul Dini hits us with a proper throwback story which could have been published in the 90's. Basically Harley Quinn shows up Bats grabs here with the intension of kicking her out of town she spends the whole time trying to awaken his Christmas spirit in him, this one was really fun. Steve Orlandos effort sees the introduction of a new interesting looking character called the Stag, I am intruiged by this one, but it did break the tone of the book a bit, finally Scott Wilson closes things with a short adventure where Haunter escapes Arkham and teams up with Scarecrow only to be outwited by Batman in the end.
Overall this is just a fun read, that reminded me of being a kid and it was just wonderfull.
5/5
Elsewhere in comics...
Superman Annual #1 - This was excellent, we get a really surprisings confrontation as Superman has it out with Swampthing of all people, this was interesting as Superman coming from an alternate earth is actually damaging this earth with his prescence, the 2 duke it out before Swampthing eventually helps Clark accept this earth as his home and assists him in altering his vibrational frequency. This was fun to read and their were some great action pages here and some really innovative use of Swampthings powers.
JLA #10- I can't really stress how much I do not care about this story, its clealy a delayed title everything thats happening is out of sync with current continuity, full disclosure this was added to my pull list by accident. I am really just waiting for the new JLA team coming in 2017 which just looks excellent.
Suicide Squad #7 - I am starting to enjoy this, we have the idea for this story is that everyone else in the SS is driven mad but Harley is driven sane, there are some nice action bits and its a interesting to see Harleen Quinzel with all her faculties, we also learnthat Boomerang isn't as dead as we thought. I am not however enjoying how short the main story is to make room for these back ups, I know its to make sure Jim Lee is on time and able to honour the double shipping but honestly I would prefer 1 book a month that was all Jim Lee.
Extraordinary X-Men #16 - This issue is about tying up loose plot threads in time for Inhumans vs X-Men and it does so really well. Apocalypse is seeming destroyed (that never takes, nor should it hes awesome) but not till he is tricked into freeing Colossus from his influence (Huzzah Peteys back) Magic defeats the big bad at great personal cost and the X-Men accept that they have to leave Limbo and return to the world.
Inhumans vs X-men #0 - This is setting the scene issue for the mini series but I thought it did so really well, Emma is building a strike team to take out the Inhumans and while this is going on Beast is trying to find a cure for M-Pox, we end up of a cliff hanger whereby Beast makes a shocking discovery which he hides from the Inhumans and summons all of the X-Teams to meet him, what the discovery is we are left wondering about.
Whoo I am officially upto date!
Sunday 20 November 2016
Pick of the week 23/11/2016 Wonder Woman #11
I am so massively behind on my books, thats what holidays will do to you, anyway I am slowly but surely catching up. In all honesty theres been nothing to exceptional but the great thing about this week is one book which I have really been wanting to like but struggling with has finally turned a corner and clicked for me and that is my PoTW Wonder Woman #11!
The List;
Wonder Woman #11
Deathstroke #7
Action Comics #968
Teen Titans #2
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #9
Death of X #4
Detective Comics #945
Flash #11
Titans #5
Hellblazer #4
Ok I love the character of Wonder Woman but I have struggled to really get into the current run, I am not sure if its the fact that the swapping between the 2 arcs or the story in general but nothings grabbed me so far, well I am pleased to say thats no longer the case.
What this issue does really well is build the mystery of Themyscira, WW returns with Steve Trevor (hooray!) but everything is different, everyone looks different, even the architecture isn't the same, its all harsher and darker, also theres no General Phillipus. Now the whole two story lines make smuch more sense, introducing you to Themyscira the way they have makes the difference of that Themyscira was and how it is portrayed now much more jarring and intruiging.
I am now really looking forward to seeing how this finally all plays out, I want to give a shout out as well to Liam Sharp on art duties for some utterly gorgeous work and Laura Martins colours are just absolutely wonderful they match the tone of the art and the story perfectly.
4/5
Elswhere in comics;
Deathstroke #7 - I think this is going to be one of the titles I drop, I just don't really care about anything thats happening and I cannot get invested in the story, Superman is in this latest are abd Batman is in the last that should of been great but I just wsnt really bothered at all, its not bad really but its not connecting with me.
Action Comics #968 - These last 2 issues or so have just been ok, I am still intruiged as to wha the feck is up with this new Clark Kent, but this issue didn't really grab me as much as some of the others.
Teen Titans #2 - I am really enjoying this so far, a big part of how much you love or hate this book depends on your view of Damian Wayne, I love the character so I am digging this. Robin in this issue is stil trying to get the team together as it turns out they are being hunted by a group of league of Assassins students more of this please!
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #9 - Easily still the best Green Lantern book, Hals back as we new he would be ... well sort of. Hes in Emerald space which seems a bit of a rip off of the Speed force, apparently is were Lanterns who have given their lives to corp end up, theres two big reveals here one of them is Hal getting some face time with ABIN SUR! Love that really nicely done, turns out Hals not dead just close to it, Ganthet is trying to get him out and who does he call on you ask? Only Kyle Rayner, BOOM, really excellent stuff.The other thing thats brillaint about this arc is they are battling fricking Starro and Brianiac love it, 2 classic villains and its a really nice change to see them going against someone other than another team of Lanerns.
Death of X #4- I don't know how to feel about this book at all, the whole point of this story is to find out what Cyclops (who by the way is thge best X-Man.Period) did to make everyone hate him so much. And its nothing he manages to destroy one of the Terrigen mist clouds and then commits suicide by Blackbolt. WTF. There is an interesting twist though as it turns out he actualy died in the 1st issue and everything we have seen is Emma Frost creating a psychic illusion, I am interested to see how this roles into Inhumas vs X-Men but this issue actually made me physically angry that Cyclops dies off page, I mean what the hell sort of ending is that for one of the Prof X's greatest student and a mainstay in Marvel comics for the last, what, 30 years? Outrageous, personally I am just waiting for X-Men Gold and Blue.
Detective Comics #945 - This Victims club arc isnt really grabbing me yet, its ok but its just not clicking with me so far. I will say it is a good premise there is not enough focus on the collateral damage when you have these superpowered showdowns, hopefully things will pick up. One thing this that this issue does which is really well is give some nice fleshing out of the Clayface character. I have to admit I don't care for this Clayface, my Clayface will always be Clayface two, the one who was in love with the manequin, something about that character always freaked me out a bit as a kid so I have a real soft spot for him, and also Dr Phosphorus who scared the dickens out of me.
Flash #11- I really love this book, this issue wasnt amazing but it was solid and the interpaly between Wally and Barry is really well done, we get to see what the deuce is going on with the shade, turns out his insecurities have allowed the shadows he creates to rebel and take over the shadowlands, good stuff, the shadowlands present an interesting chnge of scenery and will create some intresting challenges for the flashes as they look to rescue Iris who the shadows have kidnapped.
Titans #5 - Really enjoying this book, this is a really Wally focused issue that seems him push the boundaries of his speed and take down all of Kadabras dopplegangers, before seemingly push himself too hard and ending up being absorbed into the Speed force. As much as I have enjoyed this though I am ready for this Kadabra thing to be done with, hes never been a villain I really cared for.
Hellblazer #4- I really want to like this but I just havent really found anything in the 1st 4 issues to make it stand out or justify my hardearned cash. Its a shames because John Constantine is a great character, I am gonna give it a few more issues and them possible drop it, if its still not standing out.
Peace out bitches
The List;
Wonder Woman #11
Deathstroke #7
Action Comics #968
Teen Titans #2
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #9
Death of X #4
Detective Comics #945
Flash #11
Titans #5
Hellblazer #4
Ok I love the character of Wonder Woman but I have struggled to really get into the current run, I am not sure if its the fact that the swapping between the 2 arcs or the story in general but nothings grabbed me so far, well I am pleased to say thats no longer the case.
What this issue does really well is build the mystery of Themyscira, WW returns with Steve Trevor (hooray!) but everything is different, everyone looks different, even the architecture isn't the same, its all harsher and darker, also theres no General Phillipus. Now the whole two story lines make smuch more sense, introducing you to Themyscira the way they have makes the difference of that Themyscira was and how it is portrayed now much more jarring and intruiging.
I am now really looking forward to seeing how this finally all plays out, I want to give a shout out as well to Liam Sharp on art duties for some utterly gorgeous work and Laura Martins colours are just absolutely wonderful they match the tone of the art and the story perfectly.
4/5
Elswhere in comics;
Deathstroke #7 - I think this is going to be one of the titles I drop, I just don't really care about anything thats happening and I cannot get invested in the story, Superman is in this latest are abd Batman is in the last that should of been great but I just wsnt really bothered at all, its not bad really but its not connecting with me.
Action Comics #968 - These last 2 issues or so have just been ok, I am still intruiged as to wha the feck is up with this new Clark Kent, but this issue didn't really grab me as much as some of the others.
Teen Titans #2 - I am really enjoying this so far, a big part of how much you love or hate this book depends on your view of Damian Wayne, I love the character so I am digging this. Robin in this issue is stil trying to get the team together as it turns out they are being hunted by a group of league of Assassins students more of this please!
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #9 - Easily still the best Green Lantern book, Hals back as we new he would be ... well sort of. Hes in Emerald space which seems a bit of a rip off of the Speed force, apparently is were Lanterns who have given their lives to corp end up, theres two big reveals here one of them is Hal getting some face time with ABIN SUR! Love that really nicely done, turns out Hals not dead just close to it, Ganthet is trying to get him out and who does he call on you ask? Only Kyle Rayner, BOOM, really excellent stuff.The other thing thats brillaint about this arc is they are battling fricking Starro and Brianiac love it, 2 classic villains and its a really nice change to see them going against someone other than another team of Lanerns.
Death of X #4- I don't know how to feel about this book at all, the whole point of this story is to find out what Cyclops (who by the way is thge best X-Man.Period) did to make everyone hate him so much. And its nothing he manages to destroy one of the Terrigen mist clouds and then commits suicide by Blackbolt. WTF. There is an interesting twist though as it turns out he actualy died in the 1st issue and everything we have seen is Emma Frost creating a psychic illusion, I am interested to see how this roles into Inhumas vs X-Men but this issue actually made me physically angry that Cyclops dies off page, I mean what the hell sort of ending is that for one of the Prof X's greatest student and a mainstay in Marvel comics for the last, what, 30 years? Outrageous, personally I am just waiting for X-Men Gold and Blue.
Detective Comics #945 - This Victims club arc isnt really grabbing me yet, its ok but its just not clicking with me so far. I will say it is a good premise there is not enough focus on the collateral damage when you have these superpowered showdowns, hopefully things will pick up. One thing this that this issue does which is really well is give some nice fleshing out of the Clayface character. I have to admit I don't care for this Clayface, my Clayface will always be Clayface two, the one who was in love with the manequin, something about that character always freaked me out a bit as a kid so I have a real soft spot for him, and also Dr Phosphorus who scared the dickens out of me.
Flash #11- I really love this book, this issue wasnt amazing but it was solid and the interpaly between Wally and Barry is really well done, we get to see what the deuce is going on with the shade, turns out his insecurities have allowed the shadows he creates to rebel and take over the shadowlands, good stuff, the shadowlands present an interesting chnge of scenery and will create some intresting challenges for the flashes as they look to rescue Iris who the shadows have kidnapped.
Titans #5 - Really enjoying this book, this is a really Wally focused issue that seems him push the boundaries of his speed and take down all of Kadabras dopplegangers, before seemingly push himself too hard and ending up being absorbed into the Speed force. As much as I have enjoyed this though I am ready for this Kadabra thing to be done with, hes never been a villain I really cared for.
Hellblazer #4- I really want to like this but I just havent really found anything in the 1st 4 issues to make it stand out or justify my hardearned cash. Its a shames because John Constantine is a great character, I am gonna give it a few more issues and them possible drop it, if its still not standing out.
Peace out bitches
Pick of the week 16/11/2016 Superman #11
Ok for my money Superman is the best comic going today, I havent been able to say that since... well ever to be honest. I have always loved Supes but previous runs whilst enjoyable haven't blow me away but HOLY SHIT this whole Rebirth run has been fan-bastard-tastic, so this should have been an easy pick, only it wasn't because Aquaman is just SO good I really wanted to pick that, in fact that was pick of the week right up until I read Superman (I saved the big S for last just incase).
The List;
Superman #11
Aquaman #11
Uncanny X-Men Annual #1
Batman #11
Trinity #3
He-Man/Thundercats #2
Nightwing #9
Suicide Squad #6
Justice League #9
Green Lanterns #11
Green Arrow #11
This issue is just wonderful, I had a huge grin plastered on my face through the whole issue it was just excellent, excellent stuff, Peter J Tomasi is just getting better with every issue.
So as you can guess by the cover and by the ending of the last issue, this is focused on Damian and Jonathan, their respective Super fathers are putting then through a boot camp to learn how to work together and as you can imagine it doesn't go smoothly.
The interplay between the 2 super sons is excellent throught the issue, they are presented with several trials to earn their capes and insignias back, they fail at them all because they just cant work together, I really thought I was going to find Jonathan Kent boring as hell and was hoping he would be written out somehow but to my surprise the character is a lot of fun, I have always loved Damian so theres no surpises for me digging his character, though I find not all writers get him quite right, this take is perfect. So the trials are set up so they have to work together to proceed, but even when they try to they just can't stayon the same page. Supes and Bats call time on the trial as their last failure almost leads to the getting splatted, they all return to the cave where the Superdads are attacked and supposedly incapcited by what appears to be Clayface? but he is referred to as Mister Squish? Anyway its another set up and FINALLY the two work together, this looks to be leading to a nice warm and fuzzy ending, right up until the final page when they the dads leave the kids to their own devices for a moment and when they turn around the boys are trying to murder each other with an axe and saw respectively, this last page is just so perfect it actually made me belly laugh out loud, the look on Clark and Bruce's faces is pricelss.
The chemistry between the two supersons is hilarious and I forgot to mention, you also get to see Damian Wayne get hit in the face by a fish, I shit you not. Frankly if there is anyone reading this who could buy this and not be entertained then I find you suspicious as a human being.
Buy this if you like fun.
5/5
Elsewhere in comics;
Aquaman #11 this book just continues to be blood excellent, I am really enojoying this run and am totally invested in the story, I really loved seeing the League come see Arthur when he was in hospitla it was a really nice seen, and it made the ending that much more effective. Uncanny X-Men Annual #1 really strong issue, I am interested in seeing Elixir back amongst the living, this was an interesting development, and maybe a way for Prof X to return, as Elixir now seems to be able to raise the dead, they are still keeping Magneto on the right side of anti hero, dont you dare turn him villain again Marvel.
Batman #11 I should like this way more than I do, it may read more coherently if read in once which I will do when this arc finishes. Trinity #3 I really want to like this but its not grabbing me yet.
He-Man/Thundercats #2 big stupid fun with big swords and monsters, whats not to like
Nightwing #9 great issue reminding us again what an important character Nightwing is, and how in many ways he is like a cross between Batman and Superman. Supes is in town and hijinbx ensue.
Suicide Squad #6 Starting to keep my interest, this mini story in the back though is really grinding my gears I want more main story thank you very much!
Justice League #9 This is really moving in the right directions.
Green Lanterns #11 as is Green Lanterns, I'm actually quite enjoying this arc, well done.
Green Arrow #11 I am still really enjoying seeing Ollie and Dinah together and long may it continue!
Right thats yer lot, get lost.
The List;
Superman #11
Aquaman #11
Uncanny X-Men Annual #1
Batman #11
Trinity #3
He-Man/Thundercats #2
Nightwing #9
Suicide Squad #6
Justice League #9
Green Lanterns #11
Green Arrow #11
So as you can guess by the cover and by the ending of the last issue, this is focused on Damian and Jonathan, their respective Super fathers are putting then through a boot camp to learn how to work together and as you can imagine it doesn't go smoothly.
The interplay between the 2 super sons is excellent throught the issue, they are presented with several trials to earn their capes and insignias back, they fail at them all because they just cant work together, I really thought I was going to find Jonathan Kent boring as hell and was hoping he would be written out somehow but to my surprise the character is a lot of fun, I have always loved Damian so theres no surpises for me digging his character, though I find not all writers get him quite right, this take is perfect. So the trials are set up so they have to work together to proceed, but even when they try to they just can't stayon the same page. Supes and Bats call time on the trial as their last failure almost leads to the getting splatted, they all return to the cave where the Superdads are attacked and supposedly incapcited by what appears to be Clayface? but he is referred to as Mister Squish? Anyway its another set up and FINALLY the two work together, this looks to be leading to a nice warm and fuzzy ending, right up until the final page when they the dads leave the kids to their own devices for a moment and when they turn around the boys are trying to murder each other with an axe and saw respectively, this last page is just so perfect it actually made me belly laugh out loud, the look on Clark and Bruce's faces is pricelss.
The chemistry between the two supersons is hilarious and I forgot to mention, you also get to see Damian Wayne get hit in the face by a fish, I shit you not. Frankly if there is anyone reading this who could buy this and not be entertained then I find you suspicious as a human being.
Buy this if you like fun.
5/5
Elsewhere in comics;
Aquaman #11 this book just continues to be blood excellent, I am really enojoying this run and am totally invested in the story, I really loved seeing the League come see Arthur when he was in hospitla it was a really nice seen, and it made the ending that much more effective. Uncanny X-Men Annual #1 really strong issue, I am interested in seeing Elixir back amongst the living, this was an interesting development, and maybe a way for Prof X to return, as Elixir now seems to be able to raise the dead, they are still keeping Magneto on the right side of anti hero, dont you dare turn him villain again Marvel.
Batman #11 I should like this way more than I do, it may read more coherently if read in once which I will do when this arc finishes. Trinity #3 I really want to like this but its not grabbing me yet.
He-Man/Thundercats #2 big stupid fun with big swords and monsters, whats not to like
Nightwing #9 great issue reminding us again what an important character Nightwing is, and how in many ways he is like a cross between Batman and Superman. Supes is in town and hijinbx ensue.
Suicide Squad #6 Starting to keep my interest, this mini story in the back though is really grinding my gears I want more main story thank you very much!
Justice League #9 This is really moving in the right directions.
Green Lanterns #11 as is Green Lanterns, I'm actually quite enjoying this arc, well done.
Green Arrow #11 I am still really enjoying seeing Ollie and Dinah together and long may it continue!
Right thats yer lot, get lost.
Pick of the Week 09/11/2016 The Flash 10
This was an ok week for comics, there was nothing bad, but for some reason nothing really blew me away either, and there was only one book that really jumped out at me, everything else was just good or ok.
The List;
The Flash #10
Action Comics #967
Red Hood and the Outlaws
Supergirl #3
Uncanny X-Men #15
All Star Batman #4
Detective Comics #944
New Super-Man #5
Hal Jordon and the Green Lantern Corp #8
Deathstroke #6
Womder Woman #10
Superwoman # 4
The Flash has been a conisistently excellent book since the Rebirth Launch (albeit with some jarring art changes) and this issue is no further, firstly the cover is wonderful, this issue introduces the new big bad for the new arc and its a big return for a character we don't really see a lot of...The Shade.
This is not a character I have read an awful lot about, I know hes been both anti-hero and villain, well Rebirth finds him staying camp badguy for the nexy little while. We are introduced to him straight away in a really nicely done prologue, I really enjoyed that bit, he doesnt really raise his head again till the end and we see hes been through quite the redesign, hunched and monstrous looking I really dig it.
A lot of the focus this week is on Wally and his journey to becoming hero and his clashing with Barry as the Flash being a strict mentor, the interplay between Flash, Wally and Iris is good and believable and its not bugging me like I thought it would, Wallys a believeable teenager rebelling against his elders, but with his heart in the right palce. The other thing I liked about this book is it is one of the only titles that is still talking about the Rebirth mystery, it seems the Shade knows what has happened as well which is interesting, I am honestly happy with the slow burn, before the payoff I just hope its not anticlimatic. Overall this is just a really good book, art, pacing and characterisation are spot on and its left me genuinely interested to see how this is going to play out...kudos.
4/5
Elsewhere in comics;
I'm not sure if I was just in a funk but little else really grabbed me to be honest, I enjoyed Uncanny X-Men #15 the focus is really on Psylocke and Mystique this time round and we leave with the intersting ending of Psylocke curing Mystiques crazyness. New Super-Man #5 Gosh darned it this title is just a lot of fun! I really like all the characters and the tone of the book, this wasnt an amazing issue but it was a fun read neverless. Hal Jordon and the Green Lantern Corp #8 so whi thinks Hals dead? No-one? Good just checking.
PS
OK DC and Marvel I am not kdding around anymore hurry up and bring back Prof X, Cyke and Black Adam, dont't make me come over there...
The List;
The Flash #10
Action Comics #967
Red Hood and the Outlaws
Supergirl #3
Uncanny X-Men #15
All Star Batman #4
Detective Comics #944
New Super-Man #5
Hal Jordon and the Green Lantern Corp #8
Deathstroke #6
Womder Woman #10
Superwoman # 4
This is not a character I have read an awful lot about, I know hes been both anti-hero and villain, well Rebirth finds him staying camp badguy for the nexy little while. We are introduced to him straight away in a really nicely done prologue, I really enjoyed that bit, he doesnt really raise his head again till the end and we see hes been through quite the redesign, hunched and monstrous looking I really dig it.
A lot of the focus this week is on Wally and his journey to becoming hero and his clashing with Barry as the Flash being a strict mentor, the interplay between Flash, Wally and Iris is good and believable and its not bugging me like I thought it would, Wallys a believeable teenager rebelling against his elders, but with his heart in the right palce. The other thing I liked about this book is it is one of the only titles that is still talking about the Rebirth mystery, it seems the Shade knows what has happened as well which is interesting, I am honestly happy with the slow burn, before the payoff I just hope its not anticlimatic. Overall this is just a really good book, art, pacing and characterisation are spot on and its left me genuinely interested to see how this is going to play out...kudos.
4/5
Elsewhere in comics;
I'm not sure if I was just in a funk but little else really grabbed me to be honest, I enjoyed Uncanny X-Men #15 the focus is really on Psylocke and Mystique this time round and we leave with the intersting ending of Psylocke curing Mystiques crazyness. New Super-Man #5 Gosh darned it this title is just a lot of fun! I really like all the characters and the tone of the book, this wasnt an amazing issue but it was a fun read neverless. Hal Jordon and the Green Lantern Corp #8 so whi thinks Hals dead? No-one? Good just checking.
PS
OK DC and Marvel I am not kdding around anymore hurry up and bring back Prof X, Cyke and Black Adam, dont't make me come over there...
Monday 14 November 2016
Pick of the week 02/11/2016 Superman #10
This week it was down to 2 books Nightwing #8 and Superman #10 it was a reasonably strong week though with good offerings from Green Lanterns, Aquaman and Justice League, I am finally digging JL and GL books!
The List;
In the end there's no re-inventing the wheel here, and certainly nothing edgy, but its effective fun story telling, what is great is that Patrick Gleason cleary has an excellent grasp of these characters and their interactions and dialogue all feel really right. I have a real soft spot for the Damian Wayne Robin and I do enjoy it when he is as much of a jerk as he is here. Superman is now becoming one of the titles I really look forward too,which really is as it should be.
Nightwing #8-This book continues to be excellent, this is ultimately the end of the Raptor arc, Raptors true intentions are revealed as he kidnaps Bruce Wayne and in one of the most excellent things I have read this years outs him in a classic Bat villain death trap that will see Bruce die by silver spoon to the heart when share prices reach a certain amount, fantastic! This issue and the series so far has done an excellent job of reminding us what a greay and important character Dick Grayson is! There is also a really touching scene at the end between Bruce and Dick.
Death of X #3 - I continue to really enjoy this mini-series and this issue prominantly features Magneto so I was always gonna at least want to like it, I think I can enjoy this more than maybe some people as I havent been reading any X-Comics in the last 24 months so this is all pretty new to me.
Justice League #8 - It's taken its time but this book is finally clicking with me again, it was always going to be tough to follow Johns stellar run on the book but its getting there.
Green Lanterns #10 - We have a new villain whos been very effectively fleshed out and the new GL's for whatever reason arent grting on me any more so kudos!
Batman #10 - Ok this issue is just weird! I'm not sure if I wasnt paying enough attention but I don't really get what was going on with Bats repeating the same words over and over again, essentially demanding Bane turn over Pyscho Pirate or he breaks his back, he repeats it even when Banes not there, its very odd. Bats ends up with an almost broken back again in fighting a de-venomed Bane he fixes it rather grusomely and escapes his cell because hes Batman and lets his Bat-Suicide Squad in, one good thing is the whole issue hs a Catwoman monologue runing through it and we find out about the 200+ homicides referenced before.
The List;
- Death of X #3
- Justice League #8
- Green Lanterns #10
- Batman #10
- Green Arrow #10
- Aquaman #10
- Superman #10
- Nightwing #8
Nightwing #8-This book continues to be excellent, this is ultimately the end of the Raptor arc, Raptors true intentions are revealed as he kidnaps Bruce Wayne and in one of the most excellent things I have read this years outs him in a classic Bat villain death trap that will see Bruce die by silver spoon to the heart when share prices reach a certain amount, fantastic! This issue and the series so far has done an excellent job of reminding us what a greay and important character Dick Grayson is! There is also a really touching scene at the end between Bruce and Dick.
Death of X #3 - I continue to really enjoy this mini-series and this issue prominantly features Magneto so I was always gonna at least want to like it, I think I can enjoy this more than maybe some people as I havent been reading any X-Comics in the last 24 months so this is all pretty new to me.
Justice League #8 - It's taken its time but this book is finally clicking with me again, it was always going to be tough to follow Johns stellar run on the book but its getting there.
Green Lanterns #10 - We have a new villain whos been very effectively fleshed out and the new GL's for whatever reason arent grting on me any more so kudos!
Batman #10 - Ok this issue is just weird! I'm not sure if I wasnt paying enough attention but I don't really get what was going on with Bats repeating the same words over and over again, essentially demanding Bane turn over Pyscho Pirate or he breaks his back, he repeats it even when Banes not there, its very odd. Bats ends up with an almost broken back again in fighting a de-venomed Bane he fixes it rather grusomely and escapes his cell because hes Batman and lets his Bat-Suicide Squad in, one good thing is the whole issue hs a Catwoman monologue runing through it and we find out about the 200+ homicides referenced before.
Thursday 27 October 2016
Pick of the Week 26/10/2016 Flash #9 Kid Flash of Two Worlds
God dammit this is a difficult choice! There were 3 excellent issues this week and a good supporting cast of other titles to boot, hell I even liked Suicide Squad!!
The List;
Flash #9
Action Comics #966
Detective Comics #943
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps
Titans #4
Teen Titans #1
Hellblazer #3
Wonder Woman #9
Suicide Squad #5
Deathstroke #5
So why Flash 9? It was a tough one with some major competition, Hal Jordan and the GL Corp was REALLY good with an ending I did not see come like at all! Action Comics is just superb at the mo as is Detective Comics, but Flash had a moment that's rare in comics these days where I actually had goosebumps.
Everything about this issue was done well from the amazing cover, a homage to Iconic Flash 2 world, to the interaction of the characters and the huge moment at the end of the book it was really excellent stuff. This issue finds the Flash in the company of both Wally Wests, it starts off with Barry and the new 52 Kid Flash up to some heroics when they are joined by (the real) Wally West. Having the 2 Kid Flash's together does something to the Barry and he has a vision of pre-Flashpoint earth and he is taken over by the Speed force, he says some pretty mean things and drops the bombshell on Kid Flash that the Reverse Flash was his father, after that he runs off and you get some nice moments where the other Wally spends some time bonding with him and helping him deal with the bombshell, this whole passage is dealt with really well, what I also really approved of is that we are reminded about the catalyst for Re-Birth as Barry and Wally discuss the mystery of who stole time form them. Finally and what was the clincher for me was.....
Oh hell yeah the JSA are coming back! I know we knew that already but this is the 1st proper hint since the Rebirth special and I am so bloody ready for this!!
Just overall the writing was excellent here and it really feels like Joshua Williamson gets these characters and the spirit of how a Flash book should be, there was a change on art this issue which usually annoys me but I think Jorge Coronas style works well with the subject matter, excellent stuff.
4/5
Elsewhere in comics;
Action Comics #966:This continues Lois Lane back at the Planet, ultimately this is about our Lois Lane after watching a video message left for her by the now deceased New 52 Lois Lane asking for her to take her place and finish her unfinished book on Superman and be there for he r father. Right sure there are plot holes here none least of which, why is no-one questioning why Pre-New 52 Lois suddenly looks 5 years older? But it doesn't really matter because the writing and characterisation is spot on and ultimately I and many others want to see Lois back in this role, the art is inconsistent but there are moments of brilliance such as when Superman flies to Save Lois from a suspicious and angry Superwoman, this bit just looks fantastic, as I said before the Superman books at the moment are fantastic.
Detective Comics #943: This is a Batwoman focused book but I am ok with this because I love the character, the main talking points here are Batman and the team still coming to terms with Tim Drakes apparent death, spoiler thinking about giving it all up, Batman chooses Batwing to replace Tim as the tech guy in the Bat family (Batwoman is not onboard) and the debut of the suitably creepy looking Victim Syndicate. Overall I love the tone of the book, love the character interaction and I am intrigued by these new villains.
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #7: This should drawn by Ethan van Sciver and its a damn shame he isn't. The content here is great its the blow off to this initial arc and the BIG showdown between Hal and Sinestro which features the apparent death of both characters and the the obliteration of War World. The writing is continues to be great here and Jordi Tarragonas art is fine serviceable, its ok but for an ending as epic as this on a Green Lantern book REALLY would have liked to see Van Sciver drawing it, I call foul on the deaths btw Sinestro looks like hes being torn apart BUT he could also be transitioning back to the anti matter universe, and with Hal, well with all the weird moment hes had with becoming pure will power I am guessing he is still very alive.
Titans #4: This was ok, I am not enjoying this book as much as I want to, but it was still fine, the art in particular was very strong.
Teen Titans #1 Currently the stronger of the two Titans books, this is helped by the fact I love Damian Wayne and think he is a great character.
Hellblazer #3: This has been fine, the book isn't blowing me away so far, there is a fantastic opening involving the audio from a horse race including horses named Cameron's Stupid Stupid stunt, Boris Johnsons Knob, Farage you don't! This is ok there are several plots being juggled which doesn't hurt the book as much as it could have, the arts ok but I think this book would benefit from a more gritty visceral style.
Wonder Woman #9: I wish this book wouldn't jump about so much, its making it a bit jarring but overall this is a good issue which see's Wonder Woman hooking up with Steve Trevor! I am ok with this, the issue otherwise focuses on the search for Themyscira and we end with Diana seeming finally home and re-united with her mother?
Suicide Squad #5: Better this one focuses on tension within the team and Rick Flag trying to stop Amanda Waller from utilising the insane General Zod as a new member of the Squad, I am glad they addressed the ridiculous size of Zod we witnessed before which annoyed me, we get a shock ending as Flag seems to shoot Waller to stop her.
Deathstroke #5: Solid issue, I am enjoying the run Batman vs Deathstroke is the premise, interestingly though Deathstroke is only really in the last page, I am enjoying this run and the ending in particular has made me really looking forward to issue 6.
Sunday 23 October 2016
Pick of the Week 19/10/2016 Superman #9
This was another week of good comics, the choice for pick of the week ultimately boiled down to the big two books Batman and Superman and picking one over the other was really hard, I think ultimately I was won over by the fun and over the top action of Superman #9 ahead of Batman #9 but it was a close thing.
The pull list;
Superman #9
Batman #9
Aquaman #9
Green Arrow #9
Green Lanterns #9
Justice League #7
Nightwing #7
Trinity #2
Doom Patrol; #2
DK III: Master Race #6
PoTW
I think whats been so great about the Superman books recently is they have been great fun and captured the true spirit of the character, the last 3 issues in particular have just been utterly fantastic. This is the conclusion of the 2 part Escape from Dinosaur Island (how can you not love a book with that title) this arc is in part a tribute to the sadly departed Darwin Cooke and see's Superman and Superboy hooking up with Captain Storm of the losers, is it an alternative universe? Final Frontier certainly cant be viewed as canon surely? But those questions aside( I am sure there is a good answer) this is a great ride. After initially trying to shoot them Captain Storm exchanges stories with Superman and son as to what hes doing here and how they suddenly appeared, Storm explains about the losers and how he escaped the Pterodactyl nest and Superman explains how they came ot be transported here and that they need to find the device that brought them here aaannnd...TEAM UP! Captain Storm tells them he thinks he knows where to find the doohicky Clark makes Captain Storm a new prosthetic leg using a branch and his heat vision and they depart, Captain Storm riding a fricking Pterodactyl he tamed which is just bad-ass. We are then treated to an action packed throwdown with Dinosaurs and a gigantic white ape, ok full disclosure on seeing the cover and the ape for the 1st time I was like "is this the Ultra humanite???" sadly its not, but that's ok I can deal, you get to see more of Clark and Jonathan teeming up in battle and there the obligatory noble sacrifice as Captain Storm apparently sacrifices himself to allow them to escape, its actually a great moment as Superman tells him they will get him home and his response is "I am home" its interesting that this island that has taken so much from him now seems to be part of him to the point he doesn't want to leave. We are then teased by the mysterious figure we saw before watching on holding Captain Storms new leg, (he shot if off to as Clark wouldn't let go of it and give up on saving him) so the indication is that this figure was responsible for the teleportation as he somehow snagged the leg, who is he? Is this Watchmen related? Time will tell I guess, whats also Great here is the art by Doug Mahnke, I am not always the biggest fan of his work I do find him a bit hit and miss but this is just excellent the Superman team are really firing on all cylinders at the moment.
Elsewhere in comics;
I thought Batman was excellent, this was a non action issue which I am absolutely fine with, the issue opens with a someone recounting a horrific childhood of torture, we see a shadowy figure who I am assuming is Bane (huzzah!) recounting this tale to Psycho Pirate and using his powers as a form of therapy. The bulk of the issue shows Batman putting together a suicide squad of his own to go to Santa Prisca and capture Psycho pirate to help undo the damage he did to Gotham girl. Apparently he's allowed to just draft Arkham inmates as he sees fit...wait what? Oh well he's Batman. Its who is on the squad which is the real treat, the Ventriloquist, Punch and Jewlee, Bronze Tiger and Catwoman, there's some deep cuts right there. Really good set up issue but since when did Selina Kyle kill over 200 people WTF!?
Justice League I am still not getting into, I'm not sure if its the arc or the team, personally for me they would have been better off having the new creative team taking on a classic villain to start the new run but hey ho. What I want from this book is a shake up in the line up, for one thing I would have one Green Lantern, 2 is just silly (although when the book ends it does seem that is what we may be getting) I would bring in at least 2 more members I would love to see Green Arrow and Shazam in the League, I will keep on with it though.
Green Arrow I am really enjoying this run but the changes in the art team are killing me! Otto Schmidt who drew issue 8 is fantastic but I just don't like Juan Ferreyra's art at all! It makes the transistion a bit jarring, I was happy to see the continuation of Ollie and Dinah's budding relationship here, this was a good action packed issue and thank god it ended with them leaving the island, I don't think I could have dealt with a prolonged stay.
Aquaman this is again just excellent, I am LOVING this book Dan Abnetts doing great work, his writing of Arthur is just brilliant any another week and this have been PoTW. This issue sees a wild brawl with the Shaggy man in Amnesty Bay, Aquaman is made to look super heroic in this issue, he gets beat down HARD and keeps going his face is swollen mess afterwards (which you don't see enough of in superhero comics) they are still pushing the outsider thing for Arthur which make sense and works for the character, he eventually outwits Shaggy man, he refuses to ask the JL for help but does use his JL teleportation card to send the creature into space, it ends with a close up of the card discarded in space (is he done with the JL?) and Murk shouting for help for a stricken Arthur.
Trinity, its early days for this book, I do love these 3 characters together but this issue is just ok, we do get a big reveal at the end that its Poison Ivy who's behind the supposed jump backwards in time, the team are in fact in the grips of some kind of giant plant, I am ok with this I guess but I was hoping for Mongul and the black mercy, I am still holding out for this, pretty please DC comics! I think my hope is we will find out that rather than this just being Poison Ivy its going to be a team of classic villains a batman one a superman one and a wonder woman one, that would make me very happy.
Doom Patrol I should have picked this up last week so the end result is that's its been so long since I read issue one that I dont know what the fuck is going on, its good but mad and I do wonder if this will be one of those books better suited to being collected in trade.
Green Lanterns This is book is continuing to improve, we don't really see the lanterns at all in this book, it seems more about setting up a new villain who it looks like is going to steal the Phantom ring. Its ok, I just really don't look forward to this book, I don't dread it either, but its just been very "meh" for me, and that should never be the case with a Green Lantern book, hell it was Johns run that seduced me back into comics again, I used to look forward to every issue, sticking with it fir a bit longer.
Nightwing I am digging this book I and I really like Dick Grayson, I am not sold on the Raptor character this continues to tease is he a villain or anti hero etc and what is his connection to Dicks family, good stuff.
DK III; The Master Race great book they have used some really good tools to tell this story, and lets be honest its a dream creative team, the only problem is there's soooo long in between issues that I find myself disconnecting with the story, I will have to go back and re-read issues 1-6 before 7 comes out I think, but for the record this is an excellent book.
Death of X I really enjoyed this book, there's been some good story telling which sees the Inhumans and Mutants drawing closer and closer to confrontation this issues that end is furthered by miscommunication between Storms team of Mutants and Crystals team of Inhumans. The truly great thing about this issues is I can finally read a x book with a sense of enthusiasm and not dread thanks to the pant wetting excitement of the announcement of 2 New XBooks X-Men Blue and Gold as well as solo titles for Iceman and Cable. FAN-BASTARD-TASTIC I have to admit I had brought into the conspiracy theories that said Marvel was going to get rid of the X-Men. To really make this work for me Marvel has to do 3 things;
- Bring back Professor X
- Do NOT turn Magneto back in to a villain
- For the love of GOD bring back Cyclops and heal his relationship with Hank and Bobby and the rest
If they do that then shut up and take my money!
Thursday 13 October 2016
Pick of the Week 12/10/2016: Action Comics #965
Another week, another stack of comics, another week where making a choice for pick of the week is a real challenge!
A really good week, some top work from some top creative teams, we are back to it being all about DC comics, the pull list this week was;
Action Comics #965
All Star Batman #3
Detective Comics #942
Hal Jordan and the Green Llantern Corps #6
New Super-Man #4
Deathstroke #4
Wonder Woman #8
Flash #8
Red Hood and the Outlaws #3
Suicide Squad #4
Superwoman #3
Supergirl #2
In the end it came down to 2 titles but this time I have to give it to Dan Jurgens Action Comics 965. For me personally the Superman books have been brilliant so far, the last 2 issues of Superman have been utterly fantastic, and Action Comis has been, up until now, living up its name with the Doomsday Brawl but last issues showdown with Clark and Supes slowed things down a tad and this issue continues that theme but in a great way.
What we get in this issue is Lois Lane returning to the daily planet! And I mean the real Lois Lane not the New 52 one. This follows up on the letter New 52 Lois wrote to the real Lois before her death in Superwoman.
Concerned that there was no follow up or sign of Lois since she wrote the letter our lois goes to the daily planet posing as this Earths Lois to try and found out whats going on, she managesto blag her way past Jimmy, Perry and Even Lex Luthor who drops by very briefly, his short cameo in this issue shows him sprinkling more water on the seed of doubt this Lois has about Lex, is he a better version than the Lex she and Clark both new?
Theres a nice interaction with the mysterious new Clark, he ends up being Christopher Reeve Clark Kent clumsy which I really liked and ends up wrecking Lois's computer which leads her to go back to this Earths Lois appartment, which spookiliy is in the exact same place as her old appartment in the old continuity, where she is confronted by Red Superwoman Lana Lang.
This is just a really well written issue and its great to see Lois take the spotlight, Jurgens really knows these characters and does a great job, what elveates it to pick of the week was the absolutely wonderful art. Stephen Segovias pencils are a joy behold, I love his Lois and the image of Superman on page one is near perfect, this isnt something I always notice but the pencils here are really enhancd by Arif Prianto on colours, this is just utterly gorgeous to look at and definely worth picking up.
4/5
Honnourable mentions;
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #6
I am just loving this book at the moment, this issue could easily have been written by Geoff Johns, writer Robert Venditti's grasp of the characters here is just pitch perfect, he really captures Hals reckless bravery, Guys sheer bloodymindedness and Sinestros cold superiority.
This issue is a bit of a tease the confrontation of the GL Corps and Sinestro Corps doesnt happen just yet, instead you see Hal Jordan attempt to take on the entire SC single handed with a fleet of willpower created planes, the issue closes with Sinestro finally confronting Hal, his ring powered by the fear engine to 1000! Ow have mercy as dude love would no doubt say.
4/5
New Super-Man #4
This book has been a real surprise package, this issue continues form the last and we see the Justice League of China vs The Freedom Fighters of China! Its sounds hokey but it works really well, Ii love this inept surly boy-superman and the Tubby batman, I even dig the hard ass Dr Omen, this is just a really fun read and the plot is moving along at a nice pace, theres a twist at the end that reveals that the leader of the freedom force is none other than Kenan's father! Though they did kinda telegraph that twist to you during the fight, still definetly an enjoyable read.
3.5/5
Detective Comics #942
This is the blow off to Night of the Monster Men, this arc has been really fun, Ii mean c'mon Batman vs Kaiju, in what world could that be anything but awesome. We see Dick take down the ultra Kaiju by literally diving into its stomach with the antidote and Batman take down Hugo strange without lifting a finger, thanks to clayface choking all the air out the room and Strange passing out, I like the premise here the 4 monster all represented one of Batmans character flaws, strange was trying to show Batman his weaknesses and why he isnt fit to be the Batman, he misses the fact that Bats weaknesses dont hold him back or make himunfit they feed his desire for justice. Strange thinks he has bats beat, he is wearing a suicide batman suit if batman touches him it will kill strange, but with Clay face envelping the room the lack of oxygen causes Strange to faint, a but bit anti climactic but good nevertheless. FInally this issue ends with Batman saying he is going to track Bane down since its his venom which was used to create the Kaiju, this I cannot wait for, I love Bane so they have my money.
3.5/5
And finally...
Superwoman continues to impress definetly going to continue with this one, very srong issue.
Supergirl steps up a gear with a much better effor this week and finally Suicide Squad continues to dissapoint.
Saturday 8 October 2016
Pick of the week 05/10/2016 Death of X #1
God dammit Marvel! I havent brought a Marvel comic comic since AvX the reasons for this I will get into on a seperate post but after re-watching X-Men Apocalypse I felt the need to check in with the Children of the Atom, starting with Brian Michael Bendis run on Uncanny X-Men Vol 3, I mention this because this back reading directly impacted my choice of pick of the week.
My pull list;
Death of X #1
The Uncanny X-Men #14
Nightwing #6
Batman #8
Aquaman #8
Superman #8
Justice League #6
Green Lanterns #8
Green Arrow #8
He-Man/Thundercats #1
This wasnt an exceptional week for comics but it was a hard choice because the books that were good were really good, ultimately the pick goes to Death of X I hate where this appears to be going, I hate what I think Disney are going to do to Mutants and the X-Men in particular, but I am so invested in these characters that I am pulling for the X-Men to come out the other side and then Whup the Inhuams next month.
This book starts with my favourite X-Man Cyclops leading his team to investigate a distress call left by the multiple man Jamie Madrox on Muir Island, at the same time a team of Inhumans is intercepting a soon to be newly born Inhuman, this turns into a Hydra ambush with the squad of Inhumans fighting for their lives and the life of this new Inhuman, meanwhile the X-Men find hundreds of dead Madrox dupes and a dying Jamie Maddrox, and the big reveal, which may or may not be Marvels vehicle for writing out the X-Men for good, is that the Terrigen mist which creates new Inhumans is terminal to mutants and as the issue closes with the revelation that Cyclops is infected with the mist and with the Cyclops effectively declaring war on the Inhumans.
I like this even though I fear were it might lead, I dont give a flying fook about any of the Inhumans but I am buying into the story and really rooting for them to get their ass's handed to them. Also this is being written by Jeff Lemire so by default you just know its going to be great, the art is really strong on this book too but despite all that part of me does wish that Bendis and Bachalo were on this book.
4/5
Honourable mentions;
Aquaman #8
Still just absolutely really loving on this, this is one of those books I look forward too every fortnight and this new ark continues where the last left off, Black Manta the new leader of Nemo has weapon is heading for the surface and hes going to walk through Atlantis to get there, queue buckey loads of action as Aquaman and the Drift try to stop it in its tracks but the weapon adapts to every attack and doesnt miss a beat, elswhere Mera is undergoing her trials and education to be judged a suitable bride for Arthur, I am digging this sub story and it s a nice contrast the action, the issues closes with the reveal that this giant doomsday weapon is in fact Shaggy man!
3.5/5
Superman #8
The last issue was just excellent and maybe should have been my pick of the week and this is really strong too, Supes, Jonathan and Krypto get sucked to a Dinosaur Island by a misfiring science project, and after fighting raptors, giant Fish and Pterodactyls you start to see some clues as to where this story is heading which finally pay off with the finel panels when it is revealed that this is the cave that the Losers used during Darwin Cookes amazing New Fontier, now obviously this does not make a lick of sense but I enoyed this and I am going to be interested to see how this plays out.
3.5/5
Batman #8 and Nightwing #6
The enjoyable over the top romp of Batfamily vs giant monsters nears its climax, the issue closes with Batman racing to showdown with Hugo Strange whose dressed in a bat longjohns.
3.5/5
Uncanny X-Men #14
Lets be honest this is essentially X-Force of a few years ago, with team of edgy mutants including Archangel fighting fire with fire, I can live with that I dug the X-Force run, this series does suffer in comparioson to Brubaker or Bendis runs but taken insolation I dig it, and anythign where Magneto is the main character is going to have my money. We see the return of one of my favourite x-Characters in Exodus in this issue and he still has his warped hero worship for Magneto, hes been responsible for turning the brainwshed mutants into killers the =, Magneto rumbles him kicks his ass and puts him on ice as an insurance policy and Betsy finallly decides shes been lied to enough and leaves the team. 3.5/5
PS Green lanterns didnt suck! Am I warming to these characters? Maybe. Also Green Arrow is back on form and Mummra stabbed Prince Adam through the chest and then got the taken out by Skelator shut up and take my money.
Thursday 29 September 2016
Pick of the week 28/09/2016: Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #5
This was another very strong week for DC comics, and yup I am still just buying the DC books though I am wavering and am sorely tempted to get back in with the Uncanny X-Men...
Anyway my pull list on Wednesday was;
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps #5
Action Comics #964
Titans #3
Suicide Squad #3
Deathstroke #3
Detective Comics #941
Hellblazer #2
Wonder Woman #7
The Flash #7
Tough choice again this week but my pick goes to Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corp #5, man this book is everything the other GL book is not, and I get they are supposed to be different but this is what I want from a GL title high drama in space and big stakes as well as Hal Jordan and Sinestro being front and centre. This issue seems to be setting up the inevitable massive throwdown with the remnants of the GL Corps and Sinestros forces's on war world.
Hals gets brought up to speed by Soranik about what has been happening and what her role has been with Sinestro policing the universe., Hal lets her in on the fact that he is slowly being changed by his powers. John Stewart leads the corps Mogo included, in search of Guy Gardener, who is being typical guy whilst being tortured on War world. All this builds and ends on the cusp of a major confrontation and its wonderful. Ethan Van Skiver is predictably brilliant on pencils, and Robert Venditti is absolutely knocking it out of the park, he really gets these characters and for once I am not left Jonesing for Geoff Johns to come back. Really excellent stuff.
4/5
Honourable Menions
Flash is gorgeous to look at a fun to read, I have enjoyed this book so far, Godspeed looks badass and has a great name to boot, he hasnt become irredeamable yet, and whilst he is killing it is mainly villains, August seesm to be losing his sanity and reason though and I expect to see him go full villain very soon.The supporting cast have all added to the story rather than distracting, even young(er) Wally and once again Carmine Giandomenicos are is just wonderful, a real visual treat!
3.5/5
Action comics continues to tease answers without actually giving any, Jurgens has such a good grasp of Supes and his character though it doesnt really matter. We get answers on the new Clark Kent but to quote Optimus Prime every answer led to a bigger question!
I want to know whats going on, I am invested and I will definetly be continuing with this book.
3/5
What wasnt so great;
Suicide Squad #3
This book just really isnt grabbing me, its certainly not Jim Lee's best work and I fricking LOVE Jim Lee, ( I mean theres a moment here were Zod looks about 11 foot tall! So yup you guessed it the Suicide Squad are battling General Zod, which is just fucking stupid, this team with their power set shouldnt be able to go toe to toe with Zod, I guess its because hes quite discombobulated due to just being freed from the Phantom Zone, still not a fan of this at all.
The issue closes with the tease of the SS going toe to toe with a Russian Task X esque force,,,yawn. Hopefully something will happen to make care about these shenanigans!
Friday 23 September 2016
Pick of the week 21/09/2016: Nightwing #5
Ok so not a massive week in the books I am buying at there were some notable moments such as the 1st issue of DC Trinity and the beggining of the Bat-family crossover night of the Monster men, my pull list this week was;
Green Lanterns #7
JLA #9
Justice League #5
Green Arrow #7
Trinity #1
Superman #7
Aquaman #7
Batman #7
Nightwing #5
My pick this week goes to Nightwing #5, the Nightwing book has been excellent since Rebirth but this is a different animal as this is part 2 of the Night of the Monster Men story which kicked off in Batman #7. I liked the opening salvo of part 1 in the Batman issue, it was ok but not great, I enjoyed this much more. The story is bat-shit (pardon the pun) crazy, giant monsters tearing Gotham apart, the Monstermen appear to have been created byHugo Strange while the Bat family tries to evacuate the city and stop the rampage. I really enjoyed the mayhem and the horror movie feel to this, plus I really dug the creature models, and theres just something about about this story that really appeals to me. The pencils by Roge Antonio are also a big improvment on the dissapointing art from Riley Rossmo in part 1 which I did not like at all, over all I am intrigued to see how this plays out and I really recommend picking this book up.
4/5
Also this week. . .
We thankfully saw the end of the 1st post rebirth Justice League arc, this story just has not done it for me at all, that being said I did find the ending interesting so maybe down the line this story will ending up meaning something more.Green Arrow also didnt really float my boat either the last 2 issues havent been great and I really have not enjoyed the art for the Sins of the mother story, that being said the 1st 5 issues were so good I am definetly still on board. Aquaman 7 was brilliant and was a close choice for my pick of the week, I love Dan Abnett and this story has been great so far Trinity issue one started nicely with the Trinity meeting for dinner at the Clarke....sorry Smith residence, Green Lanterns was ok a more grounded issue taking place with Simon freaking out about his mother visiting and Jessica having to pull him back, this was ok but I still don't care about either Lantern. The closest to stealing the pick from Nighwing was Superman #7 I just loved this issue it's such fun and a really simple concept of Clark trying to hang up the tights for the day to spend some quality time with the family, he manages to sneak in some heroics and gets busted by Lois in a nice scene at the end of the book. I really love storys that make Supes more relateable.
So thats it thats my opinion this week will be back next week when I may or may not be adding some Marvel to my pull list.
Green Lanterns #7
JLA #9
Justice League #5
Green Arrow #7
Trinity #1
Superman #7
Aquaman #7
Batman #7
Nightwing #5
My pick this week goes to Nightwing #5, the Nightwing book has been excellent since Rebirth but this is a different animal as this is part 2 of the Night of the Monster Men story which kicked off in Batman #7. I liked the opening salvo of part 1 in the Batman issue, it was ok but not great, I enjoyed this much more. The story is bat-shit (pardon the pun) crazy, giant monsters tearing Gotham apart, the Monstermen appear to have been created byHugo Strange while the Bat family tries to evacuate the city and stop the rampage. I really enjoyed the mayhem and the horror movie feel to this, plus I really dug the creature models, and theres just something about about this story that really appeals to me. The pencils by Roge Antonio are also a big improvment on the dissapointing art from Riley Rossmo in part 1 which I did not like at all, over all I am intrigued to see how this plays out and I really recommend picking this book up.
4/5
Also this week. . .
We thankfully saw the end of the 1st post rebirth Justice League arc, this story just has not done it for me at all, that being said I did find the ending interesting so maybe down the line this story will ending up meaning something more.Green Arrow also didnt really float my boat either the last 2 issues havent been great and I really have not enjoyed the art for the Sins of the mother story, that being said the 1st 5 issues were so good I am definetly still on board. Aquaman 7 was brilliant and was a close choice for my pick of the week, I love Dan Abnett and this story has been great so far Trinity issue one started nicely with the Trinity meeting for dinner at the Clarke....sorry Smith residence, Green Lanterns was ok a more grounded issue taking place with Simon freaking out about his mother visiting and Jessica having to pull him back, this was ok but I still don't care about either Lantern. The closest to stealing the pick from Nighwing was Superman #7 I just loved this issue it's such fun and a really simple concept of Clark trying to hang up the tights for the day to spend some quality time with the family, he manages to sneak in some heroics and gets busted by Lois in a nice scene at the end of the book. I really love storys that make Supes more relateable.
So thats it thats my opinion this week will be back next week when I may or may not be adding some Marvel to my pull list.
Sunday 18 September 2016
The List
My current pull list and the reason my family can't have nice things
Superman
Batman
All Star Batman
Dark Knight III: The Master Race
Wonder Woman
Action Comics
Detective Comics
Aquaman
Flash
Justice League
Titans
Teen Titans
Nightwing
Green Lanterns
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps
Green Arrow
Tean Titans
Superwoman
Red Hood and the Outlaws
Super Sons
The New Super-Man
Deathstroke
Hellblazer
Suicide Squad
Trinity
JLA
Earth 2
The Doom Patrol
DK III: The Master Race
Uncanny X-Men
Death of X
A couple of these have yet to drop but we are more or less between 4-6 issues in with most of them, and I have to say that its been an overwhelmingly positive experience so far, frustratingly so for my bank balance.
The Re-Launch with Rebirth brought me kicking and screming back into buying modern comics again, the one shot was perfect I found myself bawling unashamedly with the reunion with Barry and Wally and doing massive double take with the Watchmen reveal, I loved this book it was a fitting love letter from the always brilliant Geoff Johns as he departs for movie land and the issue left me with a huge grin on my face and the sobering knowledge that I would be soon be spending a great deal of money on new comics.
Highlights.
Aquaman and Green Arrow so far simpy because I had no real expectations at all, especially with Aquaman as I have never followed the book before, and both have really taken me by surpris. Aquaman in particular has really grabbed me, I have enjoyed where they have gone with it, Dan Abnetts writing has been predictably great and the art has been really so strong, now that the 1st mini arc is resolved the substory with Black Manta is keping me intrigued. With GA there is no re-inventing the wheel here, but I have enjoyed the art and the story and found myself rooting for Ollie as he loses everything and fights his way back from near death, and again the conclusion of the 1st arc has really left me looking forward to what comes next.
Honourable Mentions
Another two titles that have really grabbed me are Detective comics and Action Comics, neither has given me what I was necessarily expecting but both have been really good, DC has been SO strong I am enjoying the writing for Batwoman and the last issue actually really choked me up with a false finish ending which really hit home for me, and a tear may have been shed. As for Action Comics the return of Dan Jurgens was enough to have me intrigued and the story has just been mental, totally over the top, just batshit crazy no explanations so far but plenty of reasons to keep coming back, the 1st arc gives you Doomsday as he should be and builds on Super Luthor which for the record I am a massive fan of, I enjoyed his gradual turn during the new 52 Justice League and I hope it doesnt end too soon, I personally think the character is more intersting in this kind of role, finally the Clark Kent thing is weird as hell but again its keeping me coming back.
Weak links
So far there is nothing I am annoyed enough about to drop but Green Lanterns just is not clicking with me, I don't care about either of these new Lanterns and the 1st arc really hasn't done it for me, compared to the rather excellent Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps this book really comes off as the weak relation., I am going to give it a bit longer though.
Superman
Batman
All Star Batman
Dark Knight III: The Master Race
Wonder Woman
Action Comics
Detective Comics
Aquaman
Flash
Justice League
Titans
Teen Titans
Nightwing
Green Lanterns
Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps
Green Arrow
Tean Titans
Superwoman
Red Hood and the Outlaws
Super Sons
The New Super-Man
Deathstroke
Hellblazer
Suicide Squad
Trinity
JLA
Earth 2
The Doom Patrol
DK III: The Master Race
Uncanny X-Men
Death of X
A couple of these have yet to drop but we are more or less between 4-6 issues in with most of them, and I have to say that its been an overwhelmingly positive experience so far, frustratingly so for my bank balance.
The Re-Launch with Rebirth brought me kicking and screming back into buying modern comics again, the one shot was perfect I found myself bawling unashamedly with the reunion with Barry and Wally and doing massive double take with the Watchmen reveal, I loved this book it was a fitting love letter from the always brilliant Geoff Johns as he departs for movie land and the issue left me with a huge grin on my face and the sobering knowledge that I would be soon be spending a great deal of money on new comics.
Highlights.
Aquaman and Green Arrow so far simpy because I had no real expectations at all, especially with Aquaman as I have never followed the book before, and both have really taken me by surpris. Aquaman in particular has really grabbed me, I have enjoyed where they have gone with it, Dan Abnetts writing has been predictably great and the art has been really so strong, now that the 1st mini arc is resolved the substory with Black Manta is keping me intrigued. With GA there is no re-inventing the wheel here, but I have enjoyed the art and the story and found myself rooting for Ollie as he loses everything and fights his way back from near death, and again the conclusion of the 1st arc has really left me looking forward to what comes next.
Honourable Mentions
Another two titles that have really grabbed me are Detective comics and Action Comics, neither has given me what I was necessarily expecting but both have been really good, DC has been SO strong I am enjoying the writing for Batwoman and the last issue actually really choked me up with a false finish ending which really hit home for me, and a tear may have been shed. As for Action Comics the return of Dan Jurgens was enough to have me intrigued and the story has just been mental, totally over the top, just batshit crazy no explanations so far but plenty of reasons to keep coming back, the 1st arc gives you Doomsday as he should be and builds on Super Luthor which for the record I am a massive fan of, I enjoyed his gradual turn during the new 52 Justice League and I hope it doesnt end too soon, I personally think the character is more intersting in this kind of role, finally the Clark Kent thing is weird as hell but again its keeping me coming back.
Weak links
So far there is nothing I am annoyed enough about to drop but Green Lanterns just is not clicking with me, I don't care about either of these new Lanterns and the 1st arc really hasn't done it for me, compared to the rather excellent Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps this book really comes off as the weak relation., I am going to give it a bit longer though.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)