BC Refugee Blog

Books I Read: Jim Henson's Tale of Sand

2012-01-28T09:24:00.000-05:00

I just finished Archia Comics' Jim Henson's Tale of Sand HC, based on an unsold screenplay by Henson and his screenwriting partner Jerry Juhl, and I'm not sure what to make of it.

It turns out that Henson had a bit of a screenwriting career in the pre-Muppet '60s, specializing in live-action surrealism. After an Oscar-nominated short film and an hour-long drama for NBC, "Tale of Sand" was his feature-length vision for this sort of thing but he was unable to sell it in the early '70s. Once the "The Muppet Show" and Henson's unfortunate early death came along, there was never time to go back to it.

It's hard for me to imagine how this could have been successful as a movie. The main character spends the story being chased across the Western US desert and encountering machine-gun nests, lions, speakeasys, sharks, shieks, and a college football team, just to name a few. Which is great, but to me it never paid off in any significant way. Maybe at the time it was written people were more open to experimental fare, but I don't think it could be made now in sequel-obsessed Hollywood.

Why is our hero carrying a giant key? I have no idea. Looks great, though.

What is the salvation of the book is the gorgeous art of Ramón Pérez, and his "realization" of the screenplay. He's got a semi-cartoon, semi-realistic style that reminds me a lot of Darwyn Cooke. Pérez had a hand in the coloring too, and the combination kept me engaged enough that I was interested to read through to the end even though I probably wouldn't have been able to sit through it on screen. As usual, Archia has delivered a beautiful hardcover -- although maybe I wouldn't have chosen that exact shade of yellow for the cover -- and I'm thrilled to have it just so I can go back and gaze at Pérez' pages. If Tale of Sand doesn't sound like your thing, Pérez' next work is Marvel's adaptation of "John Carter: Gods of Mars", which will probably be a little more mainstream.

To be fair, this kind of surrealist work is highly subjective. Comics Alliance calls Tale of Sand "the best work to come out of Archaia", a distinction I would give instead to Return of the Dapper Men (and, I suspect when all is said and done, Cow Boy), so as we say around here: your mileage may vary.

They Said It Better: "Static Shock: What went wrong"

2012-01-23T18:00:00.000-05:00

As an original Milestone Comics fan, I really wanted DC's New 52 version of "Static Shock" to succeed. I mused a little bit about why it failed in a comment here last week, and I was planning to expand that into something longer after talking about it in The Comic Book Shop over the weekend, but DC Women Kicking Ass beat me to it. I highly recommend her analysis, including an obvious point about Ultimate Spider-Man that I had entirely overlooked.

Also check out John Rozum's blog, where today he gave a more detailed account of why he quit the book than is quoted in the DCWKA article.

KICKSTARTER: A valid business model for indie comics creators?

2012-01-14T23:52:00.001-05:00

Three creators from the surrounding area celebrate their recent success with a signing event at Captain Blue Hen Comics in Newark, Delaware . . . . .

How many of us know incredibly talented and creative artists who never follow up on their dreams, or get to bring their worthy projects to full fruition?

In many cases it boils down to a lack of funds. Sometimes its’ the fear of losing money or worry that they may only break even instead of making just a modest profit in exchange for their investment of time, money and effort.

What if a creator could raise their financial needs in advance of their project completion, simply by using a fund-raising campaign and giving value back to donors in exchange for their trust and faith?

Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia, writes that Kickstarter is an “online threshold pledge system” for funding creative projects ranging from inde film and music to journalism, solar energy technology and food-related projects” - - - as well as comics and graphic novels.

Wikipedia also provides some of the details, explaining that “people must apply to Kickstarter to have a project posted on the site, and Kickstarter provides guidelines on what types of projects will be accepted.”

“ Project owners choose a deadline and a target minimum of funds to raise. IF the chosen target is not gathered by the deadline, no funds are collected. Money pledged by donors is collected using Amazon Payments.”

Wikipedia further outlines some procedures: “Kickstarter takes 5% of the funds raised; Amazon charges an additional 3-5%. Unlike many forums for fundraising or investment, Kickstarter claims no ownership over the projects and the work they produce.”

Any method that allows creators to maintain ownership and creative control of their properties rather than turn their work over to second or third party interests is a method that should be applauded. I’ve been curious about this for some time, and previously wrote about Kickstarter and this particular project on this blog site. See http://bcrefugees.blogspot.com/2011/06/unique-way-for-indie-creators-to-manage.html. Recently WOMANTHOLOGY, a project to fund and print an anthology graphic novel with volunteer efforts from women creators (and excess monies raised being donated to charity) successfully raised over $100, 000. See http://womanthology.blogspot.com/p/kickstarter-successful-what-does-it-all_10.html

The Kickstarter project initiated in the second quarter of 2011 by the creative talents behind COMIC BOOK DINER ( http://comicbookdiner.com/ ) wasn’t as ambitious as WOMANTHOLOGY. Writer/artist/inker/letterers Jamar Nicholas, Rich Faber, and John Gallagher wanted to package their original graphic novels for younger readers in a Collector’s Box and make it available in time for Christmas 2011. The availability of more copies of their works also would help to fuel their efforts to get their works into the children’s section of libraries.

Their first attempt through Kickstarter sought to raise $10,000 but fell short of that goal. They revised their plans, scaled back the package offering (no Collector’s Box anymore), and reactivated their Kickstarter efforts in July 2011, seeking to raise $6,000. They succeeded this time and ended the Kickstarter campaign with a little over $7,500 in pledges.

Through a partnership with Red Lion, they were able to print the first two books and also received help in getting them listed on Amazon.com (BUZZBOY- SIDEKICKS RULE is offered there right now.) The shipment of the BUZZBOY and ROBOY RED books were recently received and Jamar, Rich and John decided to meet at a half-way point to begin working on distributing them to the Kickstarter customers. The third book, LEON PROTECTOR OF THE PLAYGROUND, should be ready in a few months. The Captain Blue Hen comic store in Newark, DE was a decent distance between their homes and offered to set up a signing session / meet-and-greet to garnish the occasion.

I arrived there on Sunday, January 8 with the hope and intention of an interview and learning more details. However, many of their supporters were on hand to congratulate them, ask advice, show art samples - - enough to turn it into a mini-workshop on comics creation. I couldn’t get my interview in, so I opted to correspond with John Gallagher via e-mail. The high points of that e-mail interview are included here.

BC REFUGEES BLOGSPOT: John, it appeared to be a very busy day for you guys today at Captain Blue Hen. Not a ton of traffic but always busy - and a lot of quality time with visitors interested in what you are doing, getting help with their projects, etc. . . . . .

JOHN GALLAGHER: It was great - - we sold maybe 5 additional books, but had four or five different Kickstarter folks come by. It’s always great to meet folks face to face and say “Thank You.”

BCR: I couldn’t get near you but I did get to talk with Rich and Jamal. However, they both defer to you as the “stats guy” for some of my questions. I’d like to confirm how the Kickstarter program worked out for you on the second go around, without specific details or complicating things by trying to explain every single step.

JG: Kickstarter did just what it was designed to do - - get things started. Our costs were anticipated to be between $10,000 – $12,000 if we did things right. And each book is costing in the $4,000 range, including printing, shipping and customs. And this is with a very economical printer! So the money raised has essentially paid for the first two books - - and we are pooling convention, appearance, and Diamond pre-orders towards book three. Some Kickstarter projects have gone 1000% beyond the requested budget ! - - But, we weren’t so fortunate. It just shows we need to keep spreading the word.

BCR: What I think is significant is that three local indie comics creators tried out a new business model for funding their projects, one that also involved social networking. What were the expectations?

JG: I really though we would make our full budget in the first try. As you know, that wasn’t the case. We came to realize that the audience we cater to for these books, at least, wasn’t really a Kickstarter crowd. So we adjusted expectations, and honed our message to the people that were out there.

BCR: What worked the best?

JG: Really, it was sell , sell, sell - - - you need to keep pushing, reminding people that you need their help - - and that you are offering a product of high quality. We played up the reviews we have received, the awards we have won or been nominated for, in order to show we were the real deal.

BCR: Did it involve less or more effort than initially considered?

JG: Definitely more shilling than anyone was comfortable with - - it was like a comic-con every day. “Have you heard of Buzzboy?” . . . “Want to support kid’s comics?” . . . etc., twice a day on Twitter, twice a day on Facebook. My wife is still mad at me for hijacking her Facebook account one night to reach out to her friends.

BCR: Upsides? Downsides?

JG: There are some folks who respected the hard sell, and that we didn’t give up. Others were completely turned off. But we saw this as a Pre-Sale Mechanism. It’s not really different from Diamond Books. But, instead of orders, printing, wait for money - - we are getting it in advance, then printing more. The Internet lets us reach an active versus passive sales model, and I dig that scene!

BCR: What is the next step?

JG: Well, we are in comics shops, on Amazon, and available through Baker & Taylor for libraries and bookstores - - so we need to market to those folks now. Jamar is busy on LEON, and we’re setting up a plan for promoting through the year - - together and apart.

BCR: Would you use this business/fundraising method again?

JG: Definitely, as a pre-order tool, again. We reached more people through Kickstarter than we would advertising in comics shops.

BCR: In terms of print runs on your works, is this the most ever done?

JG: Yes and No. This is the first time we have all printed a personal project and had such high quality printing and production. We have hardcover and softcover editions, a matching trade dress, etc. But in work for hire - - Jamar, Rich and I have all worked on high print run products. Rich worked for DC Comics and had books selling half a million copies. I did a custom Christmas comic for a shopping mall that outsold BATMAN that month. Maybe not the most - - but definitely the most satisfying as creators.

BCR: Will there be any profit / paycheck in this project - - or is it just a business expense to get more exposure for your works?

JG: As the great web cartoonist Dave Kellet once said = “People die from exposure.” (Dave Kellet of http://www.sheldoncomics.com/) No, we have set up a project that will break even within three months of the final book shipping – and make a profit. You should always aim to make money as a creator, if only to keep score. More money means we are reaching more people, and so on . . .

BCR: Were most of the Kickstarter supporters already familiar with your works, or did you pick up a significant number of new supporters?

JG: I would say it was 50/50, ranging from folks who just love to be on the ground floor - - to friends, fans, and uncles, aunts, and cousins. (Hi, Billy!)

BCR: Any advice for a comics creator considering using Kickstarter?

JG: Look at what has been done before - - and what is successful. Be realistic in your expectations; and don’t expect everyone to come to you. Have fun with it - - but also know that you owe it to your supporters to deliver the best product that you can - - this is the real deal !!

DC's New 52: The Second Wave

2012-01-12T11:17:00.002-05:00

We all knew it was coming--DC's teased us with it for months now. We had details on one book and hints on another, but to have a fully planned six-book lineup, with fairly impressive creative teams and a distinct purpose for each title? I have to applaud DC here, because I'm interested in each of these new titles.

Batman Incorporated was the one title we all knew would be back, from interviews, announcements and even the teaser at the end of the recent oversized one-shot, Leviathan Strikes. Grant Morrison returns to finish his Batman epic, while Chris Burnham continues his path to superstardom as the sole artist on this twelve-issue run. It's probably worth noting that that series, however, is now billed as ongoing--even if Morrison leaves after the first year, it wouldn't surprise me if sales keep the title going, the same way Tomasi is now helming Batman and Robin, Morrison's previous vehicle for the franchise.

Creative team details aside, Batman Incorporated will see the culmination of Morrison's Leviathan saga, whose ultimate villain was recently revealed to be none other than--spoiler warning!--Talia al Ghul, who formed the criminal organization in an attempt to recover her son and combat Batman's worldwide crimefighting initiative. This reveal added an incredible sense of history to an already intriguing run filled with new concepts and startling twists to old ones. It remains to be seen, of course, whether or not the end of Morrison's story will return the characters to a familiar status quo or leave them changed for a new writer to pick up--but as always with Morrison, the ride itself is what matters, not the destination. His Batman run has been exciting and innovative thus far, and I'm in until the end.

We've also had James Robinson and Nicola Scott's collaboration hinted at for several months, but now we finally get the details--instead of a simple Justice Society miniseries, we get the more ambitious Earth 2, a book that will (presumably) deal with the superheroics of an entire parallel world. Both of these creators being left out of the new 52 launch shocked many fans, but when it was revealed that they were working on something greater for the company, intrigue set in. The emphasis on the Justice Society will remain, of course--they are, after all, the most important part in DC's famous parallel world--but with more than just one team in their sandbox, Robinson and Scott have the opportunity to tackle even greater storylines and consequences for their characters. One of the most interesting aspects of the title, however? Its association with the next:

World's Finest by Paul Levitz, George Perez and Kevin Maguire, with the artists taking on alternating story arcs. The series will address Huntress and Power Girl, both seen so far in the new 52, both of whom have equal claim to both worlds. Before Flashpoint, they'd settled in to DC's stable of characters on their "main" Earth--but now, with a new emphasis on Earth 2, the mystery has returned. Is Huntress, currently starring in her own miniseries (also written by Levitz), Helena Wayne or Helena Bertinelli? Is Karen Starr, currently appearing in Mr. Terrific, the heavyweight Power Girl or simply a buxom blonde on Michael Holt's arm? This series will address those issues, as Huntress and Power Girl team up to discover why they've been locked away from their home reality. Effectively forming a new franchise when linked to the Earth 2 title, World's Finest has the potential to be an all-star title worthy of watch.

It isn't only big name creators given room to play in DC's Second Wave, of course--comics newcomer China Miéville joins with artist Matues Santulucco to present Dial H, a Vertigo-esque take on the Dial H For Hero concept. This title joins Animal Man, Swamp Thing and others in the "Dark" section of DC's New 52, and emphasizes the psychological effects associated with the character. After all, when the H-Dial lets its bearer change into new and exciting superheroes, he takes them on entirely--yes, he would retain his own personality, but he changes identity as well. Furthermore, it's wish fulfillment for the everyman--someone who goes from an ordinary life to gaining incredible cosmic powers from a newfound device. This new approach to the book is emphasized by its editor, Vertigo line-editor Karen Berger, and while the title is firmly set in DC continuity, the tone will come from both worlds.

G.I. Combat becomes the new war title in DC's stable, with writer J.T. Krul and artist Ariel Olivetti helming the title and its The War That Time Forgot revival. I have an indescribable love for a series that sends soldiers to their fates on an island filled inexplicably with dinosaurs, and although Krul and Olivetti aren't my favorites, I acknowledge that they're a good fit for this title. G.I. Combat will also feature rotating backups to provide new takes on DC's other war serials, such as The Haunted Tank (by John Arcudi and Scott Kolins) and The Unknown Soldier (by Justin Gray, Jimmy Palmiotti and Dan Panosian). I'm very impressed by the creative teams for the backups, and I'm excited to see how those develop as the series (hopefully) continues. War titles have been a hard sell for DC as interest in the genre shrinks, but you have to admire them for the continued attempt and the creative muscle they attach.

Finally, we have our first real spinoff title in the new 52--The Ravagers by Howard Mackie and Ian Churchill, spinning out of events in both Superboy and Teen Titans. There's a lot to say here, and I'll begin with speculation: I don't think it's a stretch to say that the book (promised to feature four characters on the run from N.O.W.H.E.R.E., the organization going after young metahumans) will star Rose Wilson and Caitlin Fairchild, both of whom are currently appearing as N.O.W.H.E.R.E. operatives in Superboy. Rose is nearly a given, especially with the title of the book, but Fairchild has had an intriguing story arc and is already on the outs with N.O.W.H.E.R.E. It would also help to emphasize the Wildstorm universe's integration with DC, something that the company is already aggressively pursuing with the increased Daemonite threat across numerous titles.

I also want to point out that Mackie's new title is spinning out of two titles by Scott Lobdell, one of Mackie's colleagues in 90's Marvel. I'm excited and intrigued to see them work together again, and although I realize that Mackie has his detractors, he's put out some excellent work (Ghost Rider, anyone?) I think this could be an excellent fit for him. And with upcoming ties between Teen Titans and Legion Lost--soon to be helmed by another 90's Marvel alumni, Tom DeFalco--DC's Young Justice franchise continues to grow in new and unexpected ways. Finally, it's worth wondering whether or not Ian Churchill will utilize his newer, Darwyn Cooke-ish art style, or his classic, Jim Lee-inspired style. I'm hoping for the former, as it showcases his true talents, but I recognize that the latter is probably more marketable, especially with Lee's new status in DC's editorial hierarchy. We'll see.

All in all, though, I'm excited. What about you?

Books I Read: Daytripper

2012-01-12T09:12:00.000-05:00

It's hard to articulate what Daytripper, a masterpiece by twin brothers Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba, is about. The back cover copy says:

Meet Bras de Oliva Domingos. The miracle child of a world-famous Brazilian writer, Bras spends his days penning other people’s obituaries and his nights dreaming of becoming a successful author himself — writing the end of other people’s stories, while his own has barely begun.

Each day in Bras’ life is like a page from a book. Each one reveals the people and things who have made him who he is: his mother and father, his child and his best friend, his first love and the love of his life. And like all great stories, each day has a twist he’ll never see coming…

Fabio Moon says it's about "quiet moments...what you can tell from somebody's eyes. An exchange of looks. A smile." I just know it's beautiful. And powerful. And emotional. Honestly, if this book doesn't make you feel something, then you're dead inside and no one can help you.

This is the part where I usually go on for paragraphs about details about the craft of the book, scenes I liked, quoting dialogue, etc., but I genuinely think this reading experience was a perfect gem that I don't want to puncture by analyzing. (I am, however, willing to mix a metaphor apparently.) It might have been nice to have a deluxe hardcover, but then again the newsprint shows off Dave Stewart's genius coloring perfectly and I'm not sure it would look right on glossy paper.

They Said It Better: Peanuts #1

2012-01-11T09:55:00.000-05:00

I can't tell you how thrilled I am to hold an actual new Peanuts comic book published during my lifetime. I wish it could have been published during Charles Schulz' lifetime too, but it's a great first effort by Kaboom! and I agree with everything Peanuts book expert Nat Gertler has to say in his review.

DC NEW 52: Batman And Robin - dynamic dysfunctional duo

2012-01-08T23:14:00.001-05:00

BATMAN AND ROBIN #1 – 4 (DC Comics) Peter J. Tomasi, writer. Patrick Gleason, penciller. Mick Gray, inker. John Kalisz, colorist. Patrick Brosseau, letterer.

This book was a nice discovery for me as well as a welcome surprise.

What interests me most about this title is the relationship between father Bruce Wayne and son Damien Wayne. It’s about respect, trust, teamwork and bridging the generation gap. It’s very much like any real-world family once the children begin to mature and think for themselves, which usually occurs at the same time they begin to feel a little self-confident and independent. Writer Peter J. Tomasi has a young son to help influence his characterization of Robin - - and that kind of high value experience helps to make the father-son exchanges in this book seem realistic.

So, what happens in BATMAN AND ROBIN?:

In the opening Bruce decides to make an about-face and stop reminding himself so much of the date, time and occurrence of his parents’ death and instead celebrate their anniversary and life. This news is meant with bored indifference by son Damien, which sets off a heated discussion about equal partnership in the team, respect and trust. A villain named Nobody who possesses stealth technology dispatches the Batman, Inc. agent in Moscow and then makes his way to the U.S. He aggressively dislikes the Batman “franchise” and intends to take his scorn directly to the source. He renews his acquaintance with Bruce, meeting him as “ Morgan” and letting Bruce know that he feels the “mission” has been distorted and he (Nobody) is here for “intervention”. (I’m trying to avoid being a spoiler here by revealing too much.) The setting for his confrontation/lecture to a bound Batman and Robin at an abandoned drive-in theater is classic, in both style and imagery.

What did I like about it?:

1)Tomasi also ties the storyline directly into that relationship so that it becomes the driving force of this series so far. Otherwise, villain Nobody would be non-memorable - - just another temporary threat that Batman should be able to handle. Instead, Nobody intends to drive a wedge between Damien and his father and in doing so become the guiding force in Damien’s development.

2) The opening of each of the various fight scenes throughout the series. It’s usually an in-your-face one or two page panel with a scary Batman confronting the criminals and an equally scary grim-faced Robin doing his best to match his father’s presence. This helps give evidence to Bruce’s growing fear that Damien would simply become a monster without his father’s influence and guidance.

3) The frequent discussions between Alfred and Bruce about Damien are very revealing and show that Bruce is in over his head when it comes to this matter. Alfred tries to be diplomatic and keep his own controlling impulses in check. It’s almost like another father-son discussion, just with different players. I also love that Alfred has a very definite role in this series rather than just function as man-servant to the manor.

4) Patrick Gleason’s art is very fluid, and he does some nice and subtle tributes to various past artists of the Batman throughout the book. (Bernie Wrightson comes to mind in Issue #3.) There are some amazing panels throughout these issues. And the rest of the art team does everything they can to further enhance the effect. It shows.

5) The covers. I am very pleased with the cover art on almost all of the DC books. They seem to understand what commands attention and will draw curious readers to the books. Unlike a lot of Marvel covers I’ve seen lately that just look like arrogant posing of the characters. Check out the symbolic cover to Issue #4 - - one of the best New 52 covers I’ve seen - - and there are many good ones.

What didn’t I like about it?:

1) No gripe with the book. I’m just unhappy with myself because both writer and artist were unfamiliar to me before reading BATMAN AND ROBIN. They both are DC stalwarts and veterans, especially Tomasi who signed on as an editor in the 1990’s and has been writing for DC since 2007. Gleason has also done work for Marvel and Image. It’s just that I’ve never picked up any books that they were involved with before (that I can remember). Hard to image that I could miss them, but it’s true.

Do I love, like, feel indifferent, dislike, or loathe this title?

I like this very much. It’s close to love. It’s going to depend on where this goes after the first story arc concludes over the next several issues.

DC NEW 52: The Best Of The Bats

2012-01-07T23:38:00.001-05:00

BATMAN #1 – 4 (DC) Scott Snyder, writer. Greg Capullo, penciller & cover. Jonathan Glapion, inker. Fco Plascencia, colors. Richard Starkings & Comicraft’s Jimmy Betancourt, letters. Batman created by Bob Kane.

I’m reading several Batman-family titles and enjoying them all. But the one I look forward to the most right now is BATMAN by Snyder and Capullo. The artist-writer team is dynamic and doing some of their best work. Greg Capullo’s style is perfect for this title. Scott Snyder’s writing has a feel as if he has been writing this character for decades instead of just a few years. (I also recommend you check out his work on the current SWAMP THING, another worthwhile DC NEW 52 title.)

So, what happens in this book? . . . . .

Bruce Wayne makes a major announcement regarding his role in the future of Gotham City (a very impressive speech and a nice piece of writing) and strikes a partnership of sorts (they share similar intentions) with candidate for mayor Lincoln March. A John Doe is brutally and slowly murdered, and during the crime scene investigation a sharply aware Batman finds a message that targets Bruce Wayne as the next victim. A Gotham ghost story involving “the Court of Owls” and their “Talon” enforcer is resurrected and suspected to have ties to the murder. Bruce Wayne/Batman denies their existence, even after an Owl-like costumed assassin strikes. But, he renews his investigation into everything Owl-related and finds new evidence that . . . . . .

What do I like most about BATMAN? . . . . . .

1) The Covers: All four covers are eye-catching and tease at the inside contents. All four covers are free of captions and other text clutter, with just the title and credits appearing and leaving the art as visible as possible. The covers to Issue #3 and 4 are the best of the bunch. I love the image of Batman reflected in the Owl’s goggles overshadowing a blood red Gotham cityscape, making it my favorite cover of the month.

2) Capullo’s captivating art: Tall vertical panels, multiple panels per page of varying sizes from large to tiny, art details that roll off one panel and into the next, the way he draws Batman in motion (almost always an elusive moving target). Wow! On the down side I’ve heard some criticism about the way he depicts chins, particularly Batman/Bruce Wayne. It’s a slight exaggeration that I appreciate, almost as if it is a tribute to the square-jawed Batman as depicted by Bob Kane back in the 1960’s. The double-page look at the interior of the Bat Cave is priceless, especially the revolving wheel that all the vehicles park on.

3) The rest of the art team and the great work they are doing with shadows and shading, multi-hues of a single color, dark and light contrasts, silhouettes, spotlights and backgrounds. Marvelous! BATMAN is a beautiful book to view. I’m no pyro-maniac but this group really knows how to visualize a deadly fire and make it a thing of beauty.

4) Gotham is a fabulous setting for a comic series. Snyder recognizes that and plays it to the maximum, almost to the point of making the city itself a major character in the story. He sets things up perfectly in Issue #1 where he starts out in the opening pages by quoting from the Gotham Gazette’s “Gotham Is” column where readers finish the sentence. After including some of those responses in the text captions and using that to create an immediate impression of Snyder’s Gotham, Batman wraps it up with an appropriate battle comment.

5) I like that Bruce is involving Dick Grayson in his missions/investigations/projects and not ignoring his importance. I love the beginning of Issue #1 and how Dick helped out at Arkham Asylum. We also get to see Tim Drake and Damian Wayne, although their roles so far aren’t as involving as Dick’s have been.

6) Every issue to date ends with a major surprise or cliff-hanger. Snyder builds the suspense very well, and this could be his way of ensuring that the reader returns the following month. However, unlike the campy BATMAN 1960’s television show which also ended every episode with a cliff-hanger - - in Snyder’s BATMAN these abrupt endings seem like a logical outcome/conclusion to what occurs in the book rather than a deliberate set-up. It takes some skill to pull that off. I’m curious to see if Snyder can keep it up without making it seem too obvious or forced.

7) Anytime that Snyder goes into more detail about some aspect or feature of Gotham you realize that it will play an important part at some later time in the story. And, just like the best scripted screenplays that utilize the same technique - - you don’t mind it a bit. (Example: details of Wayne Tower in Issue #2.)

8) Snyder is not just adding to the back-story of the city of Gotham. He’s also shedding more light on the Wayne family, in particular Alan Wayne who designed and built some of Gotham’s famous landmarks back in the 1920’s. That includes the parts he adds about young Bruce’s first detective venture following the death of his parents when he looked for a bigger conspiracy - - which Snyder ties into the main story in a masterful fashion, as well as share a learned lesson from Bruce’s experience. It gives insight into the character of Batman and what makes him tick. Clever, that Snyder. His development of more history for Gotham reminds me of what is being done (but not to the same degree) as regards the very same city in the pages of ALL-STAR WESTERN.

What don’t I like about BATMAN? . . . . .

Oh, I like it just fine. I’m having a very hard time here trying to find fault with anything. And, after reading the final pages of Issue #4 - - I just have to come back to find out what happens next.

Do I love it, like it, feel neutral, dislike it, or hate it? . . . . .

Love it, love it, love it. I give it a rating of A+. (I’m also planning to check out those Snyder issues of DETECTIVE COMICS that I opted to ignore.)

New Year !!! -- what conventions will you attend in 2012?

2011-12-31T14:56:00.001-05:00

Fresh off the press - - the preliminary guest list for Baltimore Comic-Con 2012

Baltimore Comic-Con's Happy New Year!

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - December 31, 2011 - Happy New Year to the friends and partners of the Baltimore Comic-Con! The show may not be until September 8-9, 2012, but we've been very busy lately lining up some absolutely amazing guests for our 13^th annual event!
We are very proud to announce our initial guest list for what will surely become the largest Baltimore Comic-Con yet!

Avengers vs. X-Men #0 by Frank Cho.

Laura & Michael Allred - Madman, iZombie

Greg Capullo - Batman, Spawn

Frank Cho - Avengers vs. X-Men, Liberty Meadows

Steve Conley - Bloop

Rich Faber - Roboy Red

John Gallagher - Buzzboy

Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez - Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman

Keith Giffen - Superman, OMAC, Green Arrow

Larry Hama - G.I. Joe, Wolverine, The 'Nam

Dean Haspiel - Billy Dogma, ACT-I-VATE, Trip City

J.G. Jones - Wanted, Doc Savage

Scott Kurtz - PvPonline.com

David Mack - Kabuki

David Petersen - Mouse Guard

Frank Quitely - All Star Superman, Batman & Robin

Walter Simonson - Thor, Legion of Super-Heroes

Scott Snyder - Batman , Severed, Swamp Thing

Billy Tucci - A Child Is Born, Shi

Matt Wagner - Tower Chronicles, Mage, Grendel

Mark Waid - Daredevil, Incorruptible, Irredemable

If you are a comic book fan, you need to come to Baltimore this coming September! We cover the entire industry, bringing your favorite creators from yesterday, today, and tomorrow, publishers big and small, and retailers offering everything from gold, silver, bronze, and modern comics to videos to clothing and so much more.

In addition, we provide great programming at the show, including panels on creator spotlights, creative teams, publishers, techniques, and, of course, our extremely popular Costume Contest. Whether you are a die-hard cosplayer awaiting the chance to premiere your new creation, a casual participant, you have kids who want to dress up, or you just want to see some of the most creative costumes in the world, our costume contest is great fun for everybody!

Mark your calendars - September 8-9, 2012! And keep watching for more great news throughout the year on guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest information can always be found on our website, Facebook, and Twitter. Don't forget to share this information with your friends and followers on Facebook, Twitter, blogs, and other social media sites!

The Year in Review: PGHHEAD PICKS for 2011

2011-12-26T11:22:00.001-05:00

DISCLAIMER: This is not an attempt to categorize the “best” of 2011. I’m not qualified to make that judgment since I have only read a very small percentage of what was published in 2011. Rather, these are personal recommendations - - those books of 2011 that are my absolute favorites and ones that I highly recommend to anyone interested in good comics reading/viewing.

As in my PGHHEAD PICKS for 2010, I used the same guideline / rules:

1) It has to be something that I wrote about on BC REFUGEES blog site. That narrows the field, as I read more titles than I wrote about. But, at least if I took the time to write about a book then something merited the extra attention.

2) It has to be a book that I would personally recommend to a friend - - an exceptional work that I would gladly read a second, third, or fourth time.

3) Rather than select books to fit into pre-determined categories, this is only a list of books worthy of attention. I am using categories, but mainly to help identify them further and add a little organization to this list. I’ve also added the month (in captions) in which I wrote the original review in case anyone wants to go back into the BC REFUGEES ARCHIVES and read more about each title.

THE PGHHEAD PICKS OF 2011

FAVORITE ADAPTATION – SCIENCE FICTION: PHOENIX WITHOUT ASHES (IDW, hardcover graphic novel in 2011) Harlan Ellison, writer. Alan Robinson, art. (January)

FAVORITE ADAPTATION OF A LICENSED PROPERTY: PLANET OF THE APES (Boom!) Daryl Gregory, writer. Carlos Magno, art. (August)

FAVORITE ANTHOLOGY SERIES: DARK HORSE PRESENTS (Dark Horse) various writers and artists. (May)

FAVORITE ARTIST: LEONARDO MANCO on DRIVER FOR THE DEAD min-series (Radical) September

FAVORITE MATURE ADULT / CRIME SERIES: BLUE ESTATE (Image) Viktor Kalvachev and Andrew Osborne. Viktor Kalvachev, artist. (September)

FAVORITE DC NEW 52 TITLE: ANIMAL MAN (DC) Jeff Lemire, writer. Travel Foreman, artist. (November)

FAVORITE GRAPHIC NOVEL REPRINT: NIGHT ANIMALS (Top Shelf) Writer/artist Brecht Evens (January)

FAVORITE ORIGINAL GRAPHIC NOVEL: DISCORD (AAM/Markosia) Paul J. Salamoff, writer. Giuseppe D’Elia, artist. (June)

FAVORITE HORROR SERIES: FLESH AND BLOOD (Monsterverse) Robert Tinnell, writer. Neil Vokes, artist. (November)

FAVORITE NEW CHARACTER – HORROR: ALABASTER GRAVES in DRIVER FOR THE DEAD (Radical) John Heffernan, writer. Leonardo Manco, artist. (September)

FAVORITE COMICS-RELATED NON-FICTION BOOK: SUPERGODS by Grant Morrison (October)

FAVORITE ORIGINAL MINI-SERIES: SAMURAI’S BLOOD #1-6 (Image/Benaroya) Owen Wiseman, writer. Nam Kim, Matthew Dalton, Jessica Kholinne – artists. (June)

FAVORITE SPIN-OFF MINI-SERIES: WARRIORS THREE #1-4 (Marvel) Bill Willingham, writer. Neil Edwards, artist. (May)

FAVORITE PROLOGUE THAT WAS BETTER THAN THE MIN-SERIES IT WAS SETTING UP: FEAR ITSELF – THE BOOK OF THE SKULL (Marvel) Ed Brubaker, writer. Scot Easton, art. (April)

FAVORITE PUBLISHER COLLABORATION: INVADERS NOW (Marvel / Dynamite) Christos Gage and Alex Ross, story. Caio Reis, artist. (February)

FAVORITE REVIVAL/RE-BOOT OF A SUPER-HERO TITLE: T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS #1-12 Nick Spencer, writer. Cafu, artist. (May)

FAVORITE SINGLE ISSUE STORY: SAMURAI’S BLOOD #3 (Image/Benaroya) Owen Wiseman, writer. Nam Kim, Matthew Dalton, Jessica Kholinne – art. (July)

FAVORITE SINGLE ISSUE SUPER-HERO BOOK: INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #500.1 (Marvel) Matt Fraction, writer. Salvadore Larocca, artist. (March)

FAVORITE SUPER-HERO TITLE: SUPERBOY (DC) Writer Jeff Lemire. Artist Pico Gallo. (January)

FAVORITE YOUNG ADULT SERIES: SNARKED (Boom!) Writer/artist Roger Langridge. (November)

I’d definitely be interested in learning what the favorite 2011 works of some of the BC REFUGEES writers and readers are - - so don’t be hesitant to post those here and comment. Here’s to more fantastic reading in 2012 !!!

Comics Bill Read: Hawken

2011-12-23T20:21:00.001-05:00

It's a Christmas miracle: a shocking surprise guest appearance by (the legendary) Bill Broomall -- I swear he doesn't look a day over 72 -- as he's allowed me to share his emails to his friend Tim Truman about IDW's new title Hawken #1 & #2 by Tim and his son Ben.

Hey Timbo!! I am still here and I got your e-mail about Hawken so I ran to The Comic Book Shop in Delaware to get my reserved copy!

My first comment is that the cover is fantastic but as usual, owning a few of your originals, the coloring fails to capture the depth of your work. I know the original must have captured the light brown with the dark brown more in depth than what is reproduced. As I have stated before, this is always a problem in reproducing your work. This is all the way from the Grimjack days to Hawken. Technology just has not caught up with you.

At first, the black and white format took me aback, but as I made it to page 2, I noticed that the color would not add or subtract from the story. That is how powerful and masterful the story-telling was.

To Ben: I must say that it is a relief, forgive us "Old dogs", (Sorry Tim but we both are heading to that category) that someone from the next generation has picked up the mantle in keeping the Western genre going. No matter what form it may take.

I felt all the old archetypes as I went through the battle with Hawken. I saw the Man with No Name, Outlaw Josey Wales, John Wayne as the Shootist, all of them. Then the character won his individuality as he shoots the man praying and the priest...a different breed indeed.

Did not expect the Bulldog to [spoiler to issue #1 ending]. I know there is a story here!

Last but not least, I assume [possible spoiler]? I will have to see.

Ben, the idea the even the [spoiler] stay away from Hawken as he rides away was powerful indeed. Though the best scene was the last 4 panels. S*#T on all the bastards!! Love it!

I am in for the long haul as usual!! Hi-Ho!!!!

And about #2...

Have to send off a Merry X-mas to you and the family and of course a review of Hawken #2!

Just finished Hawken. The owners of The Comic Book Shop were able to read #1 and #2 in one sitting and loved it. They have sold out of #1 and #2 is going fast so it is doing well here. I noticed that it has picked up a nice audience.

First I must say the with #2 the paper quality was a major improvement. This paper enhances your line work and just adds to the power of the story. The story continues to flow perfectly. My only question goes with the picture on page 8 and 10. I feel I know my western history well but I do not place anyone in the photo. Is it something you just downloaded and put in the story to add to feeling of the period? (Which was very well done). Or is it someone we know in the story? Is it your great grandparents? You know I must ask these things.

Not much to add Timbo. The story is just flowing perfectly. Storytelling does not get any better than this! Keep the Western alive!!

You can check out a 7 page preview of Hawken #1 here. Happy Holidays and Merry New Year, all!

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, December 21, 2011

2011-12-20T21:44:00.001-05:00

BALTIMORE VOLUME 1: THE PLAGUE SHIPS trade paperback - - - If you haven’t encountered Mignola’s latest creation - - the vampire and monster slayer Sir Lord Baltimore - -- then you are in for a treat. If you enjoy tales of a horrific nature you just can’t go wrong with his HELLBOY, B.P.R..D., etc. and now BALTIMORE.

BATMAN #4 - - - Scott Snyder has opened his run on BATMAN with an intriguing tale involving a secret society/cult of Owls with their claws into every aspect of modern Gotham - - and the threads run back all the way to Bruce Wayne’s grandfather’s time. The art is just killer.

BATMAN INC: THE LEVIATHIAN STRIKES one shot. I enjoyed Grant Morrison’s globe trotting BATMAN, INC. and look forward to reading this.

BUZZBOY: SIDEKICKS RULE trade paperback: John Gallagher’s indie creation gets better distribution (thanks to some Kickstarter funding). Good for all ages.

DAREDEVIL #7: Mark Waid has made this book interesting again - - and one of the few Marvel titles that I still care to follow.

DARK HORSE PRESENTS #7: The best anthology of continuing short series for the money.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #4: I’m still not sold on this title, but I’m moving beyond my initial 3-issue trial based on sheer optimism. Time will tell if this becomes a monthly must-have.

MEMORIAL #1 of 6: A new original fantasy world from the mind of prolific writer Chris Roberson. I saw a short preview of this that made me curious and wanting to see more.

PLANET OF THE APES #9: A new story arc begins here, which makes this a good place to find out what everybody is so excited about. Actually, you can pick up any single issue of this title and get a good read, provided you are at least familiar with the basic premise of PLANET OF THE APES.

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS Vol 2 #2 of 6: This mini-series had a great start with issue #1. Trust writer Nick Spencer to keep things interesting and surprising.

WONDER WOMAN #4: I’m in for a long haul on this title. For the first time ever, I am very interesting in the adventures of WONDER WOMAN. More to come.

The Reading Room: STAN LEE and MARVEL COMICS

2011-12-20T11:15:00.001-05:00

STAN LEE AND THE RISE AND FALL OF THE AMERICAN COMIC BOOK by Jordan Raphael and Tom Spurgeon (Chicago Review Press, 2003)

A lot has been said about Stan Lee, both pro and con. He was the major impetus for the rise of Marvel Comics in the 1960’s and into the 1970’s. As both writer and editor he turned the dormant comic book industry around, revived it’s heart, infused it with realism and soap-operatic drama but with a light-hearted touch. He spoke directly to the reader. Lee was equally revered for his enthusiasm and criticized for his hucksterism. Lee was given credit for perhaps more than he accomplished and he accepted that. Beyond being accused of not giving due credit to Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, he later became embroiled in further controversy over artists’ rights to original art and accused of being a “company man” for not staying impartial rather than taking the creator’s side in the battle.

I found this book to be one of the most objective biographies that I've read. The authors don't make judgments -- they just give both sides and back it up with the details. There is no denying the impact that Stan Lee has had on the modern comic book. His place in that history is reserved, and up front where it belongs.

I got the sense after reading this book that perhaps his best accomplishments were those he did to promote Marvel and the entire industry and bring both needed and deserved attention to this art form as well as new and more mature readership.

Anyone who has an interest in the history of Marvel and/or a thorough background on Stan Lee's role will enjoy reading this . It gives a critical appreciation of his accomplishments without the fanfare and fluff.

DC NEW 52 TRIALS: AQUAMAN is not all wet and soggy

2011-12-15T20:30:00.001-05:00

AQUAMAN #1 – 3 (DC) Geoff Johns, writer. Ivan Reis, penciller. Joe Prado, inker. Rod Reis, colorist. Nick J. Napolitano, letterer. Aquaman created by Paul Norris.

I’m sure there were a lot of readers who groaned (like I did) after reading the DC NEW 52 preview book and learned that DC was re-launching AQUAMAN yet again. However after considering the dynamic duo writer/artist team and a synopsis that seemed interesting, I decided to give it the 3-issue chance. I’m glad I did. So far, this is one of the best written and absolutely best illustrated of the NEW 52 titles. Ivan Reis is a superstar artist!, and Johns’ script here seems more organized and fluid than his work on the new JUSTICE LEAGUE does.

So, what happens in this series? . . . . . .

This is a more aggressive, no-nonsense Aquaman as shown in the opening of Issue #1 where he majestically (full page) stands in the path of a stolen armored truck, lifts it with his trident and flips it onto its’ roof, wheels up and ready for apprehension of the criminals inside. A more dangerous threat lurks in the depths of the ocean. Something has occurred that arouses a previously unknown race of dagger-teethed gilled and webby humanoids ( like a cross between THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON and PIRANHA) living in the deepest areas of the mid-Atlantic Trench. They are extremely hungry and seem to be obsessed with the quest for food. They meet up with humans on the surface and discover their new favorite delicacy.

Aquaman has never felt as if he belonged among true Atlanteans, due to his parentage ( 50/50). So, he’s made a decision to make a new life on land with Mera and leave Atlantis to find itself a new king. A local police officer somewhat familiar with the legend of Aquaman searches every lighthouse near the Boston harbor until he locates him and recruits his help against the sea creatures. What follows is very violent and bloody and Aquaman responds with equal ferocity and resolve.

What did I like? . . . . .

1) I’m enjoying how Geoff Johns brings up every single speculation as to why AQUAMAN isn’t as popular as other DC characters, and answers them in very humorous fashion. He bashes as many stereotypes about Aquaman as possible. He even includes the fictional objections and misconceptions from characters in the story (law enforcement as well as civilians) and squashes those as well. It seems like even the general public as portrayed here doesn’t take AQUAMAN seriously. These are very amusing and lend the book a light-hearted tone that helps offset the grimness of The Trench storyline. Criminal: “Bye bye, tuna man.” Policeman: “You need a glass of water or something?” Civilian: “Aquaman talks to fish. Everybody knows that.” Blogger: “How’s it feel to be nobody’s favorite super-hero?” Police officer to Mera: “Or are you only a mermaid in water? Is that how it works?”

2) Ivan Reis! Ivan Reis! Ivan Reis! Need I say more? If you need convincing flip through any issue and spend some time admiring the full page, two-page art and inspect the intricate and realistic detail. He is a master of depiction and leaves nothing out. This just looks so real.

What didn’t I like? . . . . . .

1) I’m perfectly okay with things as they are now. I’m just wondering if the bashing of the AQUAMAN stereotypes is going to continue every single issue, which would turn it into a tired script device rather than a refreshing concept. If that happens, I won’t be sticking around. I’m also curious what direction this book will take once the threat of The Trench is resolved. Will Aquaman meet more monsters, start fighting crime, or become the champion and protector of the waterways and oceans? I’d be most interested in that last direction, and not so much the other two.

2) I’m also a little concerned that the creatures from The Trench may be a little too one-dimensional to sustain a lengthy story arc. They communicate to each other and sound like seals to the human ear. But their translated dialogue is very simplistic and centered solely on the quest for food. However, their attempt to entrap some humans in cocoons and transport them back to the Trench adds a little mystery, so we’ll see.

3) I like the way that Johns is slowly fleshing out the back-story of Aquaman’s origins, revealing a little piece at a time. In addition to being raised mostly by his father the lighthouse keeper there is a mysterious third party who helped Aquaman develop his powers but also threatened his life at some point.

My rating of this series . . . . . .

I’m having fun with this book. I really like the story and love the art. It’s a strong B+, and worth checking out every month at this time.

and, another NEW 52 book that I abandoned before I got to Issue #3 . . . . .

VOODOO #1 – 2 (DC) Ron Marz, story. Sami Basri, art on #1, with Hendry Prasetya on art for Issue #2. Jessica Kholinne, color. Jared K. Fletcher, letters. Voodoo created by Jim Lee and Brandon Choi.

It’s a little bit of a shocker to find out in the opening pages that the main character is a beautiful pole-dancer and spend the first five pages admiring how the artist illustrates her stage routine. And DC rates this T+ Teen Plus (which ought to bring the junior high crowd into stores to pick this up). What a disappointment for the government agent who arranges for a private dance behind the curtained area to learn pretty Voodoo is an alien shape-shifter. Wait, he already knew that because he and his female partner have been working surveillance on Voodoo. (Guess he really wanted that lap dance.)

The soft, teasing adult content continues in Issue #2 as the two agents become bed partners. But is one of them Voodoo? After all the down-to-earth chit chat between government agents and real life / street life depictions the addition of super-hero forces in the latter part of Issue #2 feels out of place, like a real intrusion. And next issue, Green Lantern gets involved? Just sounds like an alien version of The Fugitive to me. Not that this book isn’t written properly. Ron Marz is no hack. I just expected more from him. See ya. Not coming back to VOODOO.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, December 14, 2011?

2011-12-13T23:20:00.001-05:00

SAMURAI’S BLOOD #6 of 6 (Image /Benaroya) Owen Wiseman, writer. Nam Kim, Matt Dalton, Sakti Yuwono, art team.

“Not all destiny contains vengeance. But all righteous vengeance is a part of destiny.”

This is the final issue of this outstanding mini-series, ending in dramatic fashion with a long 33-page final battle.

The artwork in this issue is the first thing that demands your attention; and this final issue is a perfect showcase for the cinematic style of this art team that has produced extremely high quality illustration,consistently issue after issue. There are some awesome full page panels awaiting your viewing pleasure, full of superb detail in shading and depth, line definition and full facial expressions from fear to rage. The art has always complimented and enhanced the story line, and served as a perfect illustrated example of the samurai philosophy expressed in the captions. As with every issue of this series, writer Owen Wiseman presents an absorbing tale up front while focusing on various samurai concepts and tenets in the background. Every issue is insightful and provides a lesson/parable as well.

The themes of Issue #6 are vengeance, destiny, fate, purpose and forgiveness. The three young survivors of Clan Sanjo have partnered with the Edo Ghost in one final effort to exact revenge against those who almost brought the entire family to an end. They have crafted a method to infiltrate the stolen castle under the guidance of the Edo Ghost who has earned the trust of the evil overlord who now inhabits it with his army of supporters/followers. I’m not going to spoil anything here and hint that everything works out or doesn’t work out, except to say that this series deserved an ending that did not leave any plot threads hanging. It does not. Everything is resolved, like it or not.

I previously praised SAMURAI’S BLOOD Issue #3 as the best stand-alone single issue comics story that I have read in 2011 - - and that remains so. Now that the series has concluded it is also a logical contender to be considered my favorite new series of 2011, or best mini-series, best creative team, etc. I’ve got friends and associates who don’t share my enthusiasm for comics and often ask me - - “why do you still read that stuff?” They aren’t complete disbelievers; they are just skeptical – meaning they need some convincing. If I want to show them a good current example of the majestic heights of grandeur that this wonderful art form (comics and graphics novels) is capable of - - then the SAMURAI’S BLOOD mini-series is the absolute best of 2011 that I can refer them to.

If you didn’t get on board for this series, then just wait for your chance to pick up the trade paperback that Image will publish sometime in 2012.

OTHER BOOKS WORTH A LOOK THIS WEEK: BATMAN AND ROBIN #4; BATWOMAN #4; BLUE ESTATE #8; DEMON KNIGHTS #4; GREEN LANTERN #4; HAWKEN #2; IRON MAN 2.0 #11; THE OCCULTIST #2 of 3; RESURRECTION MAN #4; ROGER LANGRIDGE’S SNARKED #3; THE STRAIN #1 of 11; SUICIDE SQUAD #4; and WAREHOUSE 13 #3.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY 2012 PREVIEW: The Silver Books

2011-12-12T23:24:00.001-05:00

There is truly something for everyone here, all ages, all genres, all interests. If you find something you are interested in make sure to tell your local comics shop you’d like to get a copy. Although most shops will order in the Gold books, Silver books are an option and they may be more selective. These FCBD books are not free to the retailers (even though the per issue cost is low, it can add up) and they get more selective. Don’t expect them to carry every single one of these. Better to make a request. I’ve got my eye on that DUNE book! Here’s the run down from the official FCBD press release . . . . . . . . .

Free Comic Book Day 2012 Silver Comic Books Announced

From cool kids comics to the greatest super-hero fare, from classic reprints to the latest stories, it’s a wide spectrum of comics covered in the Silver comic books available for Free Comic Book Day 2012! (Click here to see the previously announced Gold comics)

The Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) Committee has now announced the Silver Sponsors and their comic books for FCBD 2012, which will be held Saturday, May 5, 2012.

Selected by retailers who serve on the FCBD Committee, this year’s roster of Silver Sponsors and their books include a comic book for everyone’s tastes. See the full list below.

“There’s an incredible depth to this year’s Silver Sponsor offerings,” said FCBD spokesperson, Leslie Jackson. “The publishers have created a real opportunity for comic book fans—and those new to comic books—to come in and sample a wide variety of genres and stories with the titles they’re publishing.”

The complete listing of all FCBD titles, including the 11 Gold and 35 Silver comic books, along with WizKids' Marvel HeroClix: Avengers Movie FCBD figure, can be found in the January issue of Diamond Comic Distributors’ PREVIEWS catalog.

Look for more FCBD news and updates on the FCBD website, www.freecomicbookday.com; become a fan at Facebook: www.facebook.com/freecomicbook; and follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/freecomicbook.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY: SILVER COMICS:

ANTARCTIC PRESS

Diary of a Zombie Kid

(W/A) David Hutchinson, Fred Perry (CA) David Hutchinson

All 6^th-grader Bill Stokes wants is to get through middle school unnoticed so he can go on to become a big-time pro video-gamer. Then his mom comes home from her medical research volunteer job with a zombie virus. Now Bill has to deal with skin problems and body chemistry changes that make puberty look like a walk in the park! How's he supposed to realize his dream when his life has become a festering, rotting, undead nightmare?

ARCANA STUDIOS

Arcana Presents: The Intrinsic #1

(W) Sean O'Reilly, Casey Jones (A/CA) Various

Horrors from different worlds have assembled to bring about a global threat known only as “The End”. A Philosopher has recognized the signs in time to gather his own forces for Good — including an ordinary, powerless young woman. Only together can they avert disaster on a biblical scale. Every last one of them... is Intrinsic. The Intrinsic is a company crossover event bringing together characters from hundreds of titles beneath Arcana's library, an event of unprecedented ambition, unlike anything that has been attempted before!

ASPEN MLT

Worlds of Aspen 2012

(W/A/CA) Various

Aspen's Newest Hit Series Debuts Here! A special issue showcasing Aspen’s new and returning properties for 2012, showcasing Scott Lobdell and Oliver Nome’s new series, Homecoming, along with previews and story outtakes from Aspen’s hottest and newest titles: David Schwartz's Idolized, Fathom: Kiani, Executive Assistant: Assassins, and returning favorites Fathom, Soulfire, Shrugged, andLady Mechanika! Plus: A preview of summer 2012's big Soulfire event, “The Search for the Light”, and much more!

BLUEWATER PRODUCTIONS

Burt Ward, Boy Wonder #1

(W) Jeffrey Renaud (A/CA) Ramon Salas

From the creators of the hit Misadventures of Adam West series, comes the out-of-this-world spin-off series featuring everyone's favorite Boy Wonder, Burt Ward! After playing Robin in the classic ’60s Batman TV show, Burt still needs to be a hero. And along with a couple of friends, saves the world again and again!

BOOM! STUDIOS

Dune: Origins

(W) Brian Herbert, Kevin J. Anderson (CA) Rael Lyra

Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, New York Times best-selling authors of the legendary science fiction series Dune, reunite once more, this time to adapt their work at BOOM!. This FCBD edition will serve as an introduction to the Dune universe for fans of the Frank Herbert classic and new readers who aren't familiar with the rich Dune mythology; a must-have precursor to the epic launch of the adaptation of Dune books from BOOM! starting in July!

BOUNDLESS COMICS

Lady Death: The Beginning

(W) Brian Pulido, Mike Wolfer (A) Marcelo Mueller (CA) Jason Eden

Lady Death’s 20th Anniversary Celebration Starts Here! Lady Death’s travels have taken her down many different roads, but through it all, she has remained a mysterious and powerful figure. Now new readers can step into her story seamlessly with this 40 page introductory issue that brings readers up to speed with the current ongoing series. This special edition collects Lady Death Premiere and the #0 issue.

CAPSTONE

The Incredible Rockhead & Zinc Alloy 2-for-None

(W) Scott Nickel, Donald Lemke (A) C.S. Jennings, Doug Holgate (CA) Doug Holgate

Two awesome adventures for the price of… NONE! Meet the world's newest superheroes in this limited-edition, super-spectacular! First, who's mightier than marble? Who's greater than granite? Who's smarter than, uh… a rock…? It's Chip Stone, a.k.a. The Incredible Rockhead! Then hitch a ride with young Zack Allen as he takes his Zinc Alloy super-suit for a wild and wacky test-drive!

CAPTION BOX

Muqtatafaht: A Middle East Comics Anthology

(W/A/CA) Various

Featuring the work of nearly a dozen different Middle Eastern artists, this anthology (meaning "pieces" in Arabic) created in conjunction with the Harvard University Center for Middle East Studies' Outreach Center ranges from humorous insights into daily life in Beirut and Cairo, to responses to the occupation of the Palestinian territories, to personal reflections on life in Jordan. From the political to the fanciful, “the high brow to the raised brow.”

CBLDF

The Censored Howard Cruse

(W/A/CA) Howard Cruse

The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, in association with BOOM! Town presents The Censored Howard Cruse! He’s known for his gay comix, but that’s not all that’s been on Howard Cruse’s his mind! He’s also written and drawn about freedom of speech, civil rights, and drugs, as well as interesting uses for toothpaste. Now you can get a special sneak-peek at this summer’s upcoming graphic novel, The Other Sides of Howard Cruse — with just a few tastefully-placed black boxes! (You’ll have to get the OGN for the uncensored version.)

DARK HORSE COMICS

Buffy the Vampire Slayer / The Guild Flip-Book

(W) Andrew Chambliss, Felicia Day (A) Georges Jeanty, Jonathan Case, Dexter Vines

(C) Georges Jeanty, Adam Rex

Buffy has never so badly needed a vacation as she does now — with the world overrun with “zompires” and other fallout from Season 8. Luckily, Spike has got the perfect solution: a "spacecation"! Then, having lost their regular real-life meeting place, the Guildies are having a little trouble finding a new location which they can all agree upon. It all comes down to a little in-game battle to decide the new meeting place… and the circle follows the decree of the winner: the beach?!

DC COMICS

DC Nation Super Sampler / Superman Family Adventures Flip-Book

(W) Art Baltazar, Franco, Various (A) Dario Brizuela, Art Baltazar, Various

This super sampler is the place to check out Green Lantern Adventures and Young Justice, two sensational new comic series from the DC Kids line based on Warner Bros. Animation’s popular Green Lantern: The Animated Series and Young Justice, featured on the upcoming DC Nation programming block on Cartoon Network in 2012. The sampler includes two exciting, all-new stories that readers of all ages will enjoy. Plus, get a sneak-peek at the brand-new Superman Family Adventures monthly series from the Tiny Titans creative team!

DRAWN & QUARTERLY

Marble Season Preview

(W/A/CA) Gilbert Hernandez

D+Q continues its FCBD tradition of offering the best free comics in the industry with this exclusive excerpt from its lead Fall 2012 book by Gilbert Hernandez of Love & Rockets fame! Marble Season is a semi-autobiographical epic about a group of kids growing up in the 1960's seen through the eyes of a young boy. Comics and popular culture of the day will dominate the proceedings and tell the untold story of one of the medium's greatest and most respected artists. This preview depicts no nudity or objectionable language and serves as a great introduction for what will be one of D+Q’s lead titles for 2012!

DRAWN & QUARTERLY

Moomin Color Special

(W/A/CA) Tove Jansson

For the first time, Drawn & Quarterly offers a second FCBD title this year, featuring one of their most beloved and popular characters, Moomin! The Moomin Color Special will offer a sneak-peak at the brand new Moomin books — in color for the first time! Created by Tove Jansson, the Moomin characters have developed a dedicated fan base of both children and adults for over six decades. Originally published in black-and-white, these stories have now been re-colored! As a special bonus, this issue will also feature a preview of the new D+Q book, Anna & Froga, by Anouk Ricard!

FANTAGRAPHICS BOOKS

Walt Disney’s Donald Duck Family Comics

(W/A/CA) Carl Barks

Three amazingly adventurous, thrillingly stupendous, wonderfully wondrous comics by one of the greatest cartoonists of all time, Carl Barks! CARL BARKS! The biggest name in cartoons, second to only Walt Disney! Find out what happens to Donald, Daisy, Uncle Scrooge, Gyro Gearloose, and the Nephews in these extremely entertaining and wonderfully told full-color comics!

FANTAGRAPHICS BOOKS

Crockett Johnson’s Barnaby Sampler

(W/A/CA) Crockett Johnson

Before Harold and the Purple Crayon there was Barnaby. Created by Crockett Johnson, Barnaby ran in newspapers for over ten years (1942-52). Its subtle ironies and playful allusions won many passionate readers as they followed the adventures of 5-year-old Barnaby Baxter and his cigar-chomping fairy godfather, Jackeen J. O'Malley.

GEMSTONE PUBLISHING

Overstreet’s Comic Book Marketplace 2012

(W) Robert M. Overstreet, J. C. Vaughn (CA) Vincent Spencer

The Walking Dead. Tales From The Crypt. Tomb of Dracula. Swamp Thing. Horror stories have been giving comic book fans the creeps for decades, yet they often fail to get their due. What defines horror? What's new in the genre? Now the team behind The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide takes an insightful look at the worlds of horror in this new CBM special. Great articles, interviews, and market snapshots focus on what makes reading and collecting horror comics so cool. Cover by Zombie-Proof artist, Vincent Spencer.

HERMES PRESS

My Favorite Martian Special Edition

(A) Dan Spiegle

Uncle Martin (our favorite Martian) is a stowaway on a rocket to Mars in this excerpt from Hermes Press’ complete reprinting of the classic My Favorite Martian comics from the’60s. Featuring original art by Silver Age great Dan Spiegle along with supplementary artwork by Mike Arens, plus photographs from the original 1963-66 TV series starring Ray Walston and “David Banner” himself, Bill Bixby!

IMAGE COMICS

Witchblade: Unbalanced Pieces

(W) Tim Seeley (A) Diego Bernard, Fred Benes (CA) John Tyler Christopher

Since the events of Artifacts, Sara Pezzini's entire life has been altered… living in a new city, and working at a new career. But one thing remains constant: the Witchblade, a mysterious, ancient artifact in the form of a powerful gauntlet, which serves as a magnet for all things supernatural. This FCBD edition gives fans an advanced look at "Unbalanced Pieces," the full-length story from the new creative team of Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash) and Diego Bernard (The Man with No Name).

LIQUID COMICS

FCBD 2012 Dinosaurs versus Aliens

(W) Grant Morrison, Barry Sonnenfeld (A/CA) Mukesh Singh

From the minds of acclaimed filmmaker, Barry Sonnenfeld (Men In Black) and superstar graphic novel creator, Grant Morrison (Batman, The Invisibles), comes Dinosaurs Versus Aliens! When an alien invasion attacks Earth in the age of the dinosaurs, our planet's only saviors are the savage prehistoric beasts… which are much more intelligent than we ever imagined! Featuring artwork from acclaimed artist, Mukesh Singh (Guy Ritchie’s Gamekeeper).

LIQUID COMICS

Graphic Elvis Preview

(W) Stan Lee, Various (A) John Cassaday, Various (CA) Mukesh Singh

This FCBD Preview of the Graphic Elvis collector’s book features selected stories and excerpts from the deluxe hardcover edition! An illustrated homage to Elvis’ lifelong appreciation of comic books, Graphic Elvis also commemorates the 35^th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death in 2012. In the same way comic books inspired Elvis, this book allowed today’s premiere comic book creators to find inspiration from Elvis’ treasured archives at Graceland, creating a unique visual experience for his millions of fans.

MARVEL COMICS

Spider-Man: Season One

(W) Cullen Bunn (A) Neil Edwards (CA) Julian Totino Tedesco

It’s the Year of the Spider with Spidey’s 50th anniversary, the debut of the blockbuster film Amazing Spider-Man, and the all new original Spider-Man Season One Graphic Novel! Do not miss out. Get the first chapter of the eagerly anticipated Spider-Man: Season One graphic novel from Cullen Bunn and Neil Edwards!

ONI PRESS

Bad Medicine #1

(W) Nunzio DeFillipis, Christina Weir (A/CA) Christopher Mitten

Pulled out of exile from a dark corner of the world, renowned-surgeon-turned-fringe-medicine-eccentric Dr. Randal Horne must return to New York City to investigate a tragic research lab accident that’s left one man dead… and inexplicably headless. With the help of a distrusting NYPD detective, Horne must diagnose whether this strange case was truly a random act of misfortune, or the first calculated move by an invisible, psychotic murderer.

PAPERCUTZ / NBM PUBLISHING

The Smurfs / Disney Fairies Featuring Tinker Bell Flip-Book

(W/A) Various

This special flip-comic book highlights kid-friendly, world famous characters such as Tinker Bell and Smurfette, as well as new titles from Papercutz such as Dance Class featuring dance students and best friends, Julie, Lucy, and Alia; and Ernest & Rebecca, which features a six-and-a-half-year-old Rebecca and her best friend, Ernest… who is a germ.

RADICAL PUBLISHING

Under the Faerie Moon Preview

(W) Terry Rossio (A) Various (CA) Ryohei Hase

From the co-writer of Pirates of the Caribbean and Shrek comes an epic adventure set in the hidden land of Faerie. When the young faerie Weaver falls helplessly in love, she sets forth to prove her worth by recovering the lost Thrallstone of the Elves. But when Weaver sets free an imprisoned Wraith onthe promise he will help, has she unwittingly triggered the second Great Faerie War?

REBELLION

2000AD Judge Dredd Special

(W) Rob Williams, Various (A) Dom Reardon, Various

The UK's leading SF anthology comic, 2000AD, is back for its second year as a sponsor of FCBD, bringing you a fresh batch of Thrill-Powered strips from the biggest and best creators in the industry: Ichabod Azrael by Rob Williams & Dom Reardon; Zombo: The Day the Zombo Died by Al Ewing & Henry Flint; a classic Ro-Busters tale by Alan Moore and Steve Dillon, and a superhero-themed ‘Future Shock’ tale, Whatever Happened to the Green Pedestrian Palm? by Chris Weston! All this, plus an all-new Judge Dredd tale from John Wagner and a surprise guest artist!

RED FIVE COMICS

Atomic Robo & Friends 2012

(W) Brian Clevinger (A/CA) Scott Wagner

Unanimously heralded by fans, creators, retailers and critics as the perfect first comic to give to a non-comic-reader, Atomic Robo is back to delight all audiences with the ultimate equation: Atomic Robo + Dr. Dinosaur = Team-Up!

TH3RD WORLD PRODUCTIONS

Finding Gossamyr & The Stuff Of Legend IV

(W) David Rodriguez, Various (A/CA) Sarah Ellerton, Charles Paul Wilson

When a brilliant young boy named Denny solves the most perplexing puzzle in the history of mankind, he and his caretaker sister, Jenna, are transported to the fantastic land of Gossamyr, where math is magic and the boy’s unique condition gives him incredible power. Finding Gossamyr is written by game designer/writer David A. Rodriguez and beautifully illustrated by talented newcomer Sarah Ellerton. Also in this issue: a special preview of The Stuff of Legend Volume 4!

TOP SHELF COMICS

Top Shelf Kids Club 2012

(W/A) Andy Runton & Various (CA) Chris Eliopoulos

Top Shelf is proud to join the 2012 FCBD celebration with not one, but SIX all-ages tales! In this edition, we present adventures from our kid-favorite titles: Owly by Andy Runton, Johnny Boo by James Kochalka, Korgi by Christian Slade, Okie Dokie Donuts by Chris Eliopoulos, Pirate Penguin vs. Ninja Chicken by Ray Friesen, and Upside Down by Jess Smart Smiley. Perfect for everyone in the family, with a great cover by Ray Friesen this time around to boot!

12-GAUGE COMICS

Anti #1 Preview

(W) Peter Calloway, Nathan Edmondson (A) Daniel Hillyard(CA) Brian Stelfreeze

Legendary producer Gale Anne Hurd (Terminator, Aliens, The Walking Dead) teams with 12-Gauge Comics to present the tale of Zachary, a faithless man forced to confront the reality that he’s the savior of the world. Chased by demons that have infiltrated earth disguised as humans, while grudgingly protected by demon-hunter Jordan, the journey for knowledge, survival and more begins here!Plus: The Ride returns from writer Nathan Edmondson, teasing the all-new series!

VALIANT ENTERTAINMENT

Valiant Comics 2012 Preview

(W/A) TBD (CA) Jelena Kevic-Djurdjevic

The Valiant Universe returns! X-O Manowar! Bloodshot! Harbinger! Some of the best-selling heroes of all time are back in a groundbreaking new beginning, helmed by an all-star roster of comic book superstars and visionaries. Journey through the heart of the Valiant Universe with brand new stories, character redesigns, and an exclusive first look into Valiant's bold first year. This FREE preview — featuring content you won't find anywhere else — hits the stands just as Valiant's best-selling titles return to stores worldwide!

VIZ MEDIA

Voltron Force: Shelter from the Storm

(W) Brian Smith (A/CA) Jacob Chabot

After a mysterious disappearance, the mighty Voltron is back! Now the original Voltron pilots — Pidge, Hunk, Lance, Allura and Commander Keith — are training three new cadets: Daniel, Larmina and Vince. Each cadet brings something special to the team, and as they train, the depths of their gifts are revealed. And with King Lotor and his villainous minion Maahox out to destroy Voltron once and for all, the day that these new cadets must step up may be sooner than expected!

YEN PRESS

The Infernal Devices: Clockwork Angel

(W) Cassandra Clare (A/CA) Hye-Kyung Baek

A prequel to Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series, the #1 New York Times best-selling The Infernal Devices is the story of Tessa Gray, a sixteen-year-old American girl traveling alone to Victorian London who runs afoul of the city's sordid supernatural underworld. Rescued by the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, Tessa quickly finds herself caught up in an intrigue that may very well destroy her new friends — including the two enigmatic young men, Jem and Will, who have taken her under their wing...

ZENESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT

Animal Planet Presents: The World Most Dangerous Animals 2012

(W) Joe Brusha (A) Various (CA) TBD

This Free Comic Book Day edition of Silver Dragon Books’ first Animal Planet graphic novel gives a sneak peak at terrifying encounters between man and beast, illustrating what happens when humans interact with the World's Most Dangerous Animals!

ZENESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT

Jurassic Strikeforce 5 Preview

(W) Joe Brusha (A) J.L. Giles-Rivera (CA) Mike Capprotti

Kept on ice for millions of years, the Earth's first team of heroes is back to protect the planet from the threat of the evil alien overlord Zalex and his band of mutated DinoSoldiers! In this Free Comic Book Day edition Jurassic StrikeForce 5's leader, Rex, tests his skills in a training session that gets out of control and that threatens to make the hero extinct!

‘TIS THE SEASON: Impulse buys and risk-taking

2011-12-12T21:22:00.001-05:00

To all you dedicated comics readers/fans: How many times have you purchased a book based on some appealing cover art, or given a new title a chance based on the creative team involved, or ordered something through Previews simply because the description seemed interesting?

I do it all the time and I think its’ because my individual comics hobby is nearly 95% impulse-driven. I’m always doing those things I described in the first paragraph. If it’s a new title or a new comics company - - even more so.

So, when I got wind of the offer below I acted immediately. I’ve never even heard of this comics company from Alberta, Canada until today - - but based on what’s being offered here - - new works based around classic horror concepts - - I’m a sucker for it. If I like what I read you can expect to see a review here on this blog site.

Is this a blatant commercial? Am I endorsing this product? Nope. I can’t endorse something until I know what the quality level is. So I’m not telling you to buy it. 1) I’m just giving you some insights into what makes my comic clock tick and 2) since this is a personal blog I’m sharing the news about this offer with my comics friends. I wouldn’t be your friend if I didn’t share this type of news with you, would I? The decision to check this out or not is solely your own.

Here is the official press release from RENEGADE . . . . . . . . . .

RENEGADE OFFERS THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT SET

With the end of 2011 approaching, and the build up to the Christmas festivities in full swing, Renegade Arts Entertainment has decided to get into the party spirit with a special gift package. For less than $20, until December 15th, you’ll receive one of every comic book and graphic novel Renegade has published in 2011.

Included is SHAME, the best selling graphic novel from John Bolton (Hellraiser, Man-Bat) and Lovern Kindzierski (Animal Man); SHADES OF GREY: 24 HOURS IN LONDON, the action packed comic book from William Simpson (2000 AD, Transformers) and Alexander Finbow, based on the film directed by Finbow; the first issue of the horror tour de force CHANNEL EVIL from Alan Grant (Judge Dredd) and Shane Oakley (Albion, Cthulhu Tales); and the upcoming, April 2012, collected edition of Richmond Clements and Alex Moore's TURNING TIGER.

If that wasn’t enough, Renegade will also throw in a limited edition DVD of their award winning movie adaptation of HP Lovecraft's The Outsider directed by and starring Doug Bradley (Hellraiser), your choice of one DOUG BRADLEY’S SPINECHILLERS audiobook CD, two limited edition posters and a preview comic of THE LOXLEY’S AND THE WAR OF 1812, that has only been available to retailers, convention attendees and a very limited number of comic book stores in Canada.

That's more than $50 of perfectly crafted stories for less than the price of a round of drinks at the Christmas party! This special Christmas offer will disappear in a puff of smoke on December 15th so grab it whilst it still exists, and becomes the stuff of legend, only whispered about in the dead of night.

ABOUT RENEGADE ARTS ENTERTAINMENT

We publish comic books, but only a few and we are very discerning on our choices. The mix so far has been from experienced A list writers and artists and newer blood who pitched projects just too good to turn down.

Some of our projects have come from within Renegade itself, like Alan Grant' and Shane Oakley's Channel Evil and Alexander Finbow and William Simpson's Shades Of Gray. These are projects that our creators are passionate about and all of us at Renegade believe are of the highest quality. For more information, please visit www.renegadeartsentertainment.com.

DC NEW 52 trial run: DEMON KNIGHTS rates an A

2011-12-10T19:07:00.001-05:00

DEMON KNIGHTS #1 – 3 (DC) Paul Cornell, writer. Diogenes Neves, penciller. Oclair Albert, inker. Marcelo Maiolo, colorist. Jared K. Fletcher: letterer. Covers by Tony Daniel and Tomeu Morey, and assist by Norm Rapmund on #3. The Demon created by Jack Kirby.

I really like what the creative team is doing with this book. They’ve taken The Demon, Kirby’s displaced demonic anti-hero, and planted him in new surroundings closer to his place (Camelot) and time of origin (four centuries ago). They’ve surrounded him with a complimentary cast of characters that are certain to provide a variety of interesting situations and sub-plots. Writer Paul Cornell described them as “the Medieval Magnificent Seven” and the tag line fits extremely well.

So, what happens in DEMON KNIGHTS? . . . . .

As the castle of Camelot is under siege, a desperate Merlin releases the captive demon Etrigan, and imprisons him within the form of servant Jason of Norwich. Meanwhile, the dedicated Sisters Of The Order transport the body of Arthur across the fabled lake to Avalon. Suddenly one of the nuns, Xanadu by name (could it be one and the same?), dives into the lake and tries to retrieve the sword Excalibur. Did she succeed? Flash forward now to the Dark Ages where the “Horde of The QUESTING QUEEN marches North . . . . “

Jason and Xanadu are now partnered and try to pass themselves of as “pilgrims” as they enter a village that rests directly within the path of the marching Horde. They eventually meet the other members of the “Seven Against The Dark” beginning with a younger and more mirthful Vandal Savage. At this point in his immortal life he appears to be more interested initially in getting a pint to drink and being a participant in the coming events rather than the usual planner and puller-of-strings of centuries later. (It isn’t until later when a bigger threat arises that he acts more like a field general and plans a defense.) Soon they are drinking together and then make the acquaintance of Sir Ystin (The Shining Knight); Al Jabr from faraway lands (a Saracen?); the huge amazon Exoristos; and the mysterious and incredibly accurate archer known as The Horsewoman. Before long they are allied against the armies and dragons of The Queen and her wizard Mordru.

What do I like about this book? . . . . .

1) I’ve been craving to read a series set in a fantastic realm that isn’t tied into gaming or an already established canon. This allows for a fresh start.

2) I’m curious about the partnership between Jason/Etrigan and Xanada as well as the romantic triangle. As Jason converts to Etrigan to join in the bar fight he begins by kissing Xanadu. As she pulls away from his embrace, The Demon asks “You’re still fooling him? Telling him he fires your passion . . .?” and she finishes for him “. . . When I really prefer - - a bit of rough.”

3) The tongue-in-cheek nature of this book that remains restrained and funny - - never exceeding its bounds to become parody, or spoof, or the dreaded pseudo-hip “campy”.

4) Dragons. I forgot how much I missed them since the demise of SOJOURN ( the late Crossgen series, which THE DEMON reminds me of with its similar interplay between fatal danger and humor.) The added bonus here is that there are several varieties of dragons with different powers and abilities.

5) The gender-less nature of The Shining Knight. Many of the characters makes hints about it, which he/she is well aware of and answers their jibes in a humorous fashion. The trick here, which writer Cornell pulls off masterly, is to handle this subject in a mature fashion and keep it from appearing over done, prejudiced/bigoted, or homophobic.

6) The art of penciller Diogenes Neves and inker Oclair Albert. Together, their style is perfectly suited to the fast-paced and somewhat light-hearted nature of this book.

7) Etrigan and Jason cannot exist on the same plane together. So, while one is on Earth the other is in Hell. I’m sure that futures issues will feature some interesting subplots with Jason in Hell.

8) I’ve had more FUN reading this title than some of the other excellent but more somber NEW 52 series.

What don’t I like about this book? . . . . . . .

1) It’s a pleasant problem. I never anticipated that I would enjoy this many of the NEW 52 titles so far. I keep sampling new books and it’s dominating my reading as well as what I’m writing about (since I made a sort of commitment to follow 3 issues of various series, etc.) I’m spending more than I wanted to on DC books, and since the first story arc of THE DEMON is just getting heated (meaning you can still jump on and catch up) I’ll have to come back for Issue #4 and more. But I’m not crying about it; and please don’t shed any sympathy tears for me. Marvel, you have my permission to cry.

and, another book I tried an issue of and decided not to continue . . . .

THE SAVAGE HAWKMAN #1 (DC) Tony S. Daniel, writer. Philip Tan, art. Sunny Gho, colors. Travis Lanham, letters. Hawkman created by Gardner Fox.

THE SAVAGE HAWKMAN begins as a straightforward adventure story. Many things change in the life of Carter Hall (aka Hawkman) and writer Tony Daniel relays all this information piece by piece without slowing the story down. I don’t want to create the impression that I don’t appreciate his work or his writing skills. I’ve just read so much over the years that seems similar that I can’t get interested. There is no “hook” here for me.

The art is first-class and the pacing is excellent. The changes in Carter Hall’s life (he was seeming a little suicidal as the story opens and later revealed to be a little apathetic about his new address, etc.) are somewhat bold. There is no Hawkwoman apparently, making Carter a true loner. He even tries to bury the Hawkman costume and walk away from his past. This leads to a bond being forged between the Nth Metal and Carter that makes it possible for him to transform at will without having to don the harness and granting him some new powers. The threat in this issue is another all-powerful alien life force that wants to suck the energy and special powers from Hawkman. Since I’m already following one alien story line (The Trench in AQUAMAN) I don’t feel like following another one. Even the alien’s teeth look similar to the piranha-like Trenchers.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, December 07, 2011?

2011-12-06T21:23:00.001-05:00

BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES #2 of 4 (BOOM!) Corinna Bechko & Gabriel Hardman, writers. Gabriel Hardman, art. Jordie Bellaire, colorist. Ed Dukeshire, letterer.

“20 years before a man named Taylor fell from the stars . . . . . Ape society is in flux. The rigid cast system is breaking down. Humans can’t speak and are considered animals, but are tolerated in the city. Scientific curiosity is smashing old taboos. . . .

But not everyone is happy with the new status quo. Some would even break the Lawgiver’s most sacred commandment, Ape Does Not Kill Ape, to halt the march of progress . . . . . “

I almost passed on Issue #1, a little wary that this might just be a quick effort to cash in on the popularity of the monthly PLANET OF THE APES series from BOOM! - - meaning that it might not have as much substance and possibly sub-standard art. I’m happy to admit that none of those concerns are warranted here. This is really good and, while different from the monthly book, it is equal in every measure. It’s premium quality that will not let you down and has the same effect – you can see parallels to our current society and the problems of modern times.

Issue #2 of BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES details events surrounding the trial of General Alera for the suspected murder of Lieutenant Varus, a killing that occurred 15 years prior for which no alleged evidence existed until now. The interrogation is compelling, as is the dialogue (always raising questions) throughout the entire issue. Just as PLANET OF THE APES is further enhanced by some fantastic art, the work of Gabriel Hardman deserves just as much recognition and attention. His is a more photo-realistic style and it’s very creative and lovely to view. I especially enjoyed the scenes detailing Alera’s escape and pursuit. The scenery is gorgeous, and the view of the Alcatraz-like prison island is wonderfully depicted.

THE RINSE #4 of 4 (BOOM!) Gary Phillips, writer. Marc Laming, art. Darren Moore, colors. Steve Wand, letters. Paul Azaceta, cover.

“You deal in millions but you don’t give a damn about money. That’s why you’re so hard to catch.” . . . Detective Della Dash

All the loose ends get tied up in a fast-paced and satisfying way in Issue #4 of THE RINSE, making me ready to endorse a sequel. I would love to read another story about Sinclair, the “rinser” of dirty money. It was harder to like the character in Issue #1 where he was introduced as a confident, smug know-it-all. But there was still something about him that was appealing enough to make me want to come back for more issues. Sure enough, as the character became more fully developed there were more traits to admire - - - his concern for the welfare of others and his charitable, giving, and helping nature.

Sinclair was being pursued by both the law and the mob and eluded them both. The “25 million dollar trail was wiped clean.” Along the way there is a shoot-out and a car chase that deserves honorable mention in the Crime Comics Hall Of Fame. Even if you haven’t read the previous issues, this is worth picking up for everything that happens in the big Issue #4 wrap-up.

Also, just like last issue, Paul Azaceta’s cover is possibly my favorite of the month!

VALEN THE OUTCAST #1 (BOOM!) $1.00 introductory issue. Michael Alan Nelson, writer. Matteo Scalera, art. Archie Van Buren, colors. Ed Dukeshire, letters. Covers by Liam Sharp, Chad Hardin, Cary Nord, Ale Garza (2), Trevor Hairsine (2), Chad Hardin, and Joe Jusko. Valen The Outcast created by Ross Ritchie.

If this is not a payroll week for you, and you have less than you’d like to spend on comics - - at least spend just one dollar of it here. There is a lot of entertainment and value for your money.

We may be entering a revival of barbarian / sword & sorcery stories. I’m perfectly fine with that, since everything I’ve seen so far has been high quality and offers some variations on the standard formulas. The difference here in VALEN THE OUTCAST is that the main character is undead, unwanted, and shunned as an abomination everywhere he used to be recognized, accepted, and worshipped.

Lord Valen Brand, King of Oakhaven has seen his troops decimated by the driven hordes of Korris Null, his “dead children” who blindly abide by his commands and directions. Finally surrounded, he sacrifices himself so that the one remaining solider/loyalist can survive and escape. Now a member of the undead, he can’t be killed “unless you pierce his heart or sever the head”.

He does manage to steal away from his servitude, and with the aide of Zjanna, a conjurer/warrior woman, she severs his leash and brands him with a concealing tattoo to evade the necromancer. His new determination is to make his way inside the kingdom of Wraithendal and steal his soul back.

There’s lot of swordplay and blood, as you might expect. The backgrounds are appropriately dark and gloomy, enhanced by occasional splashes of color. It’s a great book to look at.

After all, would CONAN THE BARBARIAN have enjoyed the popularity it did back in the 1970’s if it was illustrated by average artists rather than Barry Windsor Smith, John Buscema and many others? The art in sword and sorcery books has to grab your attention, and it does here. Artist Matteo Scalera has a very interesting style that playfully dances around the edges of manga/anime.

In fact, if a barbarian book doesn’t have enough eye appeal on its cover, it probably won’t even get picked up. No chance of that happening here - - as the cover art is gorgeous and there are 8 versions of equally outstanding work. Too hard to name an absolute favorite, so I won’t.

MORE BOOKS WORTH A LOOK THIS WEEK: ACTION COMICS #4, ANIMAL MAN #4, CRIMINAL VOL. 6: LAST OF THE INNOCENT TPB, DEADPOOL MAX XMAS SPECIAL, ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #6, H P LOVECRAFT: THE DUNWICH HORROR #3 OF 4, HELLRAISER #8, MEN OF WAR #4, MORIARITY #7, STARBORN VOLUME 2 TPB, STORMWATCH #4, STRANGE TALENT OF LUTHER STRODE #3, SWAMP THING #4.

DC NEW 52 trials: ALL-STAR WESTERN is five-star

2011-12-05T13:59:00.002-05:00

Continuing my exploration of the DC NEW 52 titles. You can read my earlier review of ALL STAR WESTERN #1 in the BC Refugee Archives for September 29, 2011 . . . . .

ALL STAR WESTERN #1 – 3 (DC, September – November 2011 release) JONAH HEX by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray, writers. Moritat, artist and covers #1-2. Rafa Garres, cover #3. Gabriel Bautista, colorist. Rob Leigh, letterer. EL DIABLO back up feature in Issues #2-3 by Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti, writers. Jordi Bernet, artist. Rob Schwager, colorist. Rob Leigh, letterer.

ALL STAR WESTERN was not among my initial DC choices and became a pleasant surprise when I picked up the first issue on a whim. It’s very similar to the former JONAH HEX series by the same writing team. However, JONAH HEX seemed to feature mostly stand-alone stories while ALL STAR WESTERN begins with a story arc that hasn’t quite concluded yet. I’m enjoying this title very much and plan to stick around beyond the first storyline.

So, what’s happening in this book? (Spoiler alert):

Jonah Hex arrives in 1880’s Gotham City to capture/eliminate the Gotham Butcher, a serial type slayer of whores. He partners with psychologist Dr. Amadeus Arkham and their investigation uncovers a deeper threat to Gotham from a group of sinister businessmen who proclaim allegiance to the Crime Bible / Book of Cain (as in Abel’s nasty brother from the Bible stories). Things get heated when the cult of Cain gets wind of Hex and Arkham, and dispatches their army to kill them.

What do I like about it?

1) Action! There is plenty of it here. As illustrated by Moritat, it looks just great. There is a battle scene that begins with a two page spread (awesome moody skyline in the background) in Issue #2 and continues on for six glorious multi-paneled pages of mostly fight scenes and very little captions to get in the way. Issue #3 has an equally exciting but shorter battle featuring an early version of the Gatling gun (and looking very steampunk) .

2) The story! It’s very well developed by Palmiotti and Gray and sinks deep roots into the building mythology of Gotham City. Secondary characters such as Dr. Arkham and even villain Montrose and his band of wealthy conspirators are fleshed out and continue to be interesting as the story moves forward. Even as Jonah helps solve the original mystery and tries to extricate himself from Gotham despite pleading from Arkham, another trail he has been following (the evil Trapp brothers) heats up and leads to Gotham. It seems the town just won’t let him leave.

What didn’t I like about it?

1) While the EL DIABLO back up feature is decent, it’s not wowing me. I would rather pay $2.99 for a single story featuring JONAH HEX than spend $3.99 to get a back-up feature I don’t really care about. ( EL DIABLO has concluded and the next feature will be BARBARY GHOST. I’m indifferent.)

Just how indifferent to EL DIABLO are you?

Not that much. There are things about this storyline that I like. Sometimes it’s harder to maintain interest in stories that unfold at just 6-8 pages per month. However, that doesn’t keep me away from books like DARK HORSE PRESENTS - - I just need something like amazing story or amazing art to hook me more than EL DIABLO does. Still, a former bank teller who has to become comatose in order for the ghostly demon EL DIABLO to manifest isn’t too ordinary. He also gets trapped with a group of unlikely partners-in-desperation as the rest of a small town seems infested with “zombies”. Could this be the work of another demon/ghost, a disgruntled native American spirit at odds with Ed Diablo?

Do I love, like, stay neutral, dislike or hate this book?

I’ve always liked the JONAH HEX character but never felt compelled to read his adventures on a monthly basis. However, placing the events in a new setting featuring a mysterious early version of Gotham City and adding some even darker elements to a continuing storyline has me LOVING this book so far.

AND LASTLY, ANOTHER DC NEW 52 BOOK THAT I’VE DECIDED NOT TO CONTINUE WITH . . . . .

BLACKHAWKS #1 (DC, September 2011 release date): Mike Costa, writer. Graham Nolan, layouts. Ken Lashley, finisher and cover. Guy Major, colorist. Rob Leigh, letterer.

I’ve got to admit that I was already disturbed before I got too far into Issue #1, sometime right after I concluded that this was not a revival of the former Quality Comics/later DC Blackhawk team that originated during World War II. It might have been more interesting had this been a re-boot with a brand new international Blackhawks team composed of children of the original line-up with new uniforms and upgraded tech, etc. No, this just seems like a copy of G.I. JOE. The action and the art are interesting and keep the opening storyline moving. Too bad the storyline contradicts itself on Page One! Some unidentified government agency learns of a serious hostage situation at an airport in “Kazakhstan”. They dispatch the Blackhawks team to the scene, with a note to keep the operation “covert”.

Yeah, that’s covert all right - - these folks wear the Blackhawk logo on their hats and uniforms and display it all over their planes and gear. Duh! Plus, they make enough noise, blow up stuff, and cause enough destruction and mayhem to make the deaf and blind take notice. So, somebody takes a picture of the logo on their cell phone. This leads to a government investigator to show up at Blackhawks HQ because that picture getting public is now a “problem”. I’m not sticking around for anymore of this. That’s kind of too bad because the art is good and a subplot about nanotechnology and a nanocene virus that may have infected one of the team members could turn out interesting. The other thing that bothered me was giving international code names that are the opposite of the character’s heritage. “The Irishman” is from the Ukraine. And “Canada” is you guessed it - - not Canadian. If that’s meant to be cute and clever - - I remain unimpressed. Please tell the smug leader of this band - - “Lincoln” - - to take his shades off when indoors (which he always is). One and done.

Free Comic Book Day 2012 gold titles announced

2011-12-03T13:56:00.001-05:00

Wow! Is it already time to start thinking/planning for Free Comic Book Day 2012? This information courtesy of the official Free Comic Book Day publicity machine. . . . . .

The Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) Committee has announced its Gold Sponsor comic book selections for the industry’s top annual event, Free Comic Book Day, scheduled for Saturday, May 5, 2012. Next year marks the eleventh anniversary of Free Comic Book Day with another year of incredible stories that allow fans of all ages to dive into the adventures of their favorite comic book characters and encourage new readers to explore the fun and excitement that comics can offer.

Chosen by retailers on the FCBD Committee, there’s a free comic book for everyone’s taste: from Avengers, Star Wars and Transformers to Peanuts, Mouse Guard, and MegaMan.

“We had a record amount of entries from publishers this year with more than forty-five different titles” said FCBD spokesperson Leslie Jackson. “Retailers on the committee had a tough time deciding on which titles to choose for Gold sponsorship, but we’re sure fans will be pleased with the line-up for next year.”

A complete listing of all FCBD titles, including the ten Gold and thirty-five Silver comic books, can be found in the January issue of Diamond Comic Distributors’ PREVIEWS catalog, on sale at all comic book shops on December 28. Look for a separate announcement next Friday on FCBD 2012’s Silver comic book offerings.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY GOLD COMICS:

MOUSE GUARD, LABYRINTH, AND MORE HC FLIP BOOK

Written by Jeremy Bastian, Nate Cosby, Royden Lepp, Jim McCann, Ted Naifeh and David Petersen

Illustrated by Jeremy Bastian, Chris Eliopoulos, Cory Godbey, Janet Lee, Royden Lepp and David Petersen. Cover by David Petersen

This Free Comic Book Day, Archaia offers readers the chance to experience history in the making with a FREE, gorgeous, 48-page, 6” x 9” full color hardcover original graphic novel featuring all-new material! David Petersen returns with an all-new Mouse Guard tale that’s guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings! Lose yourself once again in Jim Henson’s amazing world of Labyrinth, featuring a fantastical story from Eisner Award-nominee Ted Naifeh (Courtney Crumrin) and Cory Godbey (Fraggle Rock). Get a new perspective on Jet Jones in Royden Lepp’s critically acclaimed Rust, with a short story seen through the eyes of younger brother Oswald Taylor. Jeremy Bastian’s acclaimed Cursed Pirate Girl hits the high seas in this whimsical, swashbuckling tale of wonderland journeys and unimaginable dangers. Nate Cosby (Pigs) and Chris Eliopoulos (Franklin Richards) present Cow Boy, a comedy/western that tells the tale of a young bounty hunter determined to send his entire outlaw family to jail. And Jim McCann and Janet Lee follow up their Eisner Award-winning Return of the Dapper Men with an all-new short story that leads into the upcoming sequel, Time of the Dapper Men. Witness the origin of a new, major character! And…the return of 41?!

MEGA MAN: LET THE GAMES BEGIN

Script: Ian Flynn Art: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante, John Workman, Matt Herms

"Let the Games Begin!" Part One: Don’t miss the first classic issue of the hit new MEGA MAN comic series! The future looks bright when brilliant and benevolent Dr. Light unveils his latest creations: the Robot Masters! But when the nefarious Dr. Wily steals them for his own sinister purposes, there is no one left to stop him. No one – except Mega Man!

2012 BONGO COMICS FREE-FOR-ALL!

SpongeBob Comics Freestyle Funnies

By Groening/Hillenburg

Bongo offers the best in humor comics with a proud tale from the boasting barflies of Moe’s Tavern, as they recount their close encounter with marauding beasts as members of the Springfield Bear Patrol. And Sergio Aragonés joins the fun with a story from his own past of how he made his first peso as an underground and underage artist. THEN, flip over the book for two of the swimmingest SpongeBob sagas from the series' hard-to-find earliest issues. In "Squidward and the Golden Clarinet," SpongeBob reads an issue of Mermaid Man to a less-than-welcoming Squidward. But this story has a musical hook even Squidward can't resist. Plus: a page of gags that go off the deep end by indie artiste James Kochalka.

PEANUTS/ADVENTURE TIME FLIP BOOK

Author(s): Charles Schulz, Vicki Scott, Ryan North

Artist(s): Charles Schulz, Ron Zorman,Vicki Scott, Paige Braddock, Shelli Paroline, Braden Lamb

Cover Artist(s): Charles Schulz, Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb

Two stories of two boys and their dogs -- on one side, Charlie Brown and Snoopy, along with the entire Peanuts gang, come to Free Comic Book Day! On the other side -- boy Finn and his dog Jake, along with the entire cast of the hot new Cartoon Network series Adventure Time, adventure in the Land of Ooo for Free Comic Book Day! Get your full KABOOM! dose of “Good Griefs” and “Algebraics” all in one book!

STAR WARS/SERENITY FLIP BOOK

Zack Whedon (W), Davidé Fabbri (P), Fábio Moon (P/I), Christian Dalla Vecchia (I), Adam Hughes (Cover), and Daniel Dos Santos (Cover)

Han Solo and Chewbacca have a falling-out after a deal with a shady customer goes bad. When the client gets designs on the Millennium Falcon, Han and Chewie present a united front that can’t be beat! “Mal” Reynolds, captain of the outlaw vessel Serenity, is no stranger to jobs gone wrong. But when the chips are down, he’s able to rely on an amazing, odd, and diversely talented crew for help!

DC COMICS — THE NEW 52 FCBD EDITION

(W) Various (A) Various

DC COMICS—THE NEW 52 took the industry by storm! Now get an exclusive look at what's happening in 2012 — written and illustrated by today's top creators.

TRANSFORMERS #80.5

Simon Furman (W); Andrew Wildman (P), Stephen Baskerville (I); Wildman (C)

The wait is over--after a 20-year hiatus, IDW proudly returns to the original TRANSFORMERS comic book universe, picking up right where 1991's TRANSFORMERS #80 left off! Optimus Prime, Grimlock, Kup, Hot Rod and all your favorite Generation One TRANSFORMERS characters charge into the future as fan-favorite writer Simon Furman and legendary Transformers artist Andrew Wildman present TRANSFORMERS #80.5! Reflecting back on the dizzying highs and the terrifying lows of the original run of Transformers comics, Optimus Prime watches over a Cybertron that hasn't faced Megatron for decades. But that peace shudders to an end, as we dive headlong into July's TRANSFORMERS #81!

Because the Fans demanded it! Thousands of TRANSFORMERS fans signed petitions urging us to make this book--and IDW listened!

IMAGE 20

An anthology featuring all-new stories with a mix of Image's old and new best loved characters! More details and a finalized cover art to come.

AVENGERS #12.1

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

Penciller (cover/interiors): Bryan Hitch

Start reading with this POINT ONE issue! Prepare for the upcoming high-stakes Avengers event with a battle between the Avengers and the Intelligencia, the return of SWORD, and the disappearance of Spider-Woman!

YO GABBA GABBA

Writer(s): Jamie S. Rich, Kali Fontecchio, Frank Pittarese, Evan Dorkin, & Sarah Dyer

Artist Name(s): Michael Allred, Kali Fontecchio, Jarrett Williams, & Evan Dorkin, with Han Allred, Rico Renzi, & Sarah Dyer

From the hit Nickelodeon show! Come join your GabbaLand pals Muno, Foofa, Brobee, Toodee, Plex, and of course DJ Lance Rock for a series of fun-filled adventures! Plus, an awesome Super Martian Robot Girl tale, too!

They Said it Better: The Chopping Block

2011-12-01T09:27:00.000-05:00

James Robinson, via Twitter, says that sales of DC's "The Shade" miniseries are low enough that there might not be a collected edition, or even a conclusion. Todd Allen at The Beat has written a spirited defense of the series.

I'm not suggesting that those of you who prefer to wait for trades should switch back to individual issues in most cases -- I do a lot of trade-waiting myself now -- but be aware that the weak economy has finally hit the publishers enough that those collections are no longer guaranteed. DC recently cancelled the last trades of "Doom Patrol" and "R.E.B.E.L.S.", for example, and Marvel just stopped the "All-Winners Squad" miniseries in the middle. You're almost certainly safe waiting for titles like "Avengers" and "Justice League", but if you want to keep some of the lower-tier titles in business you may want to consider adding them to a pull list at your local shop or buying them digitally.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, November 30, 2011?

2011-11-29T19:34:00.001-05:00

WORTH A LOOK AND MAYBE A PICK-ME-UP =THESE BOOKS ON SALE 11/30/2011

DAREDEVIL #6: Waid has brought the old magic back to this title. One of the few Marvel books I continue to follow.

NEAR DEATH #3: Interesting crime story following a hit-man who has a near death experience and tries to make up for all his bad deeds - - making him a marked man wanted by both the crooks and the cops.

PREVIEWS #279 Need to see what new books are coming out in February 2012.

RASL TPB VOLUME 3 I need to catch up to this title. I’ve read the single issues that made up Volume 1 and loved it. An art thief (well, maybe) who travels cross-dimensions. He has multiple lives, personalities, enemies, lovers, and a past connection to the famous inventor Tesla.

RED SKULL #5 Travel back to the pre-World War II days of Hitler’s ascendance to power - - get a history lesson and also learn how the Red Skull became so mean.

SPACEMAN #2 OF 9 I missed picking up Issue #1 somehow. I wanted to read it and see if it was worth waiting for the eventual trade paperback. So far, this has received very good press. I may have to preview Issue #2 just to satisfy my curiosity.

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS #1 of 6 No, it’s not title #53 of the DC NEW 52. It’s one of several mini-series that DC will be rolling out in the coming months. If it’s anything like the first volume from Nick Spencer this will be worth your time to check it out.

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS TPB VOLUME 1 This ran for enough issues to fill two volumes, so save some more money for the coming months. Nick Spencer took this book and made it fresh, added enough intrigue and espionage for several Mission Impossible movies, and kept adding twists and turns to keep readers guessing throughout. I love seeing it collected so it can be read in one sitting.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, November 23, 2011?

2011-11-22T19:00:00.001-05:00

Lots of books for your reading pleasure see new release tomorrow, in another week dominated by DC’s NEW 52!

ALL STAR WESTERN #3 Jonah Hex in Gotham, partnered with Dr. Arkham and in real danger from a secret society of power-hungry business villains. It’s been very good so far - - but a little different from the usual Jonah Hex fare.

AMERICAN VAMPIRE VOL 1 TPB Good timing on DC’s part to put this out now during the increasing interest in the work of Scott Snyder on BATMAN and SWAMP THING (well deserved). This is the beginning of his vampire saga co-written with Stephen King, and definitely worth a look.

AQUAMAN #3 Continues to poke fun at itself in a light-hearted fashion. On the other hand, this is a no-nonsense bad ass Aquaman and hungry Trenchers are a bit scary.

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #3 Love the art. Story’s not bad either.

CALIGULA #5 of 6 Possibly the most disturbing book that David Lapham has written, certainly the most gruesome and gory. Absolutely shocking!

DARK HORSE PRESENTS #6 You can’t find a better assortment of short stories anywhere. Loaded with great art, great writers, and continuing fantasy sagas in small bite-sized segments. Check it out!

DEADPOOL MAX 2 #2 The lighter side of David Lapham. Pair him up with Kyle Baker and you get a wacky, wild, and very adult-themed version of Deadpool. I laughed at lot at Volume 1. Expect the same chuckles here.

DEMON KNIGHTS #3 One of the books I picked up Issue #1 on a whim and stuck around for more. The Magnificent Seven, indeed! A very pleasant surprise outside the ordinary realm of DC.

FEAR ITSELF #7.2 I said it before - - we’ve come this far so we may as well see how this plays out. I’m holding onto all the issues until it’s over so I can have a marathon reading.

THE FLASH #3 Another pleasant surprise. Some very creative ways to illustrate how fast Barry is.

IRON MAN 2.0 #10 Only three issues left to wrap up the compelling twisted story of Palmer Addley.

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #3 I really like this pairing up of dark characters from DC, and trust Peter Milligan to keep surprising me.

KAPOW: GUINESS WORLD RECORD SPECIAL Say no more - - a record breaker and a worthy fund raiser for charity.

RASL #12 I haven’t been following this, but I hear great things. I did love the first 4 issues.

SCALPED VOL 8 TPB: YOU GOTTA SIN TO GET SAVED Aaron is awesome at writing a whole lot more than super-heroes.

SIXTH GUN #17 Weird dark occult western continues to be a good read.

STITCHED #1 Another Avatar variation on the undead. Mummified corpses are re-animated to battle both NATO forces and the Taliban in the Afghan desert. New madness from writer Garth Ennis and artist Mike Wolfer.

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2 I was surprised by the humorous semi-serious touch of Issue #1. A nice surprise from the X-Men stable of titles.

UNWRITTEN VOL 4 TPB: LEVIATHAN Mike Carey is writing a break-through epic alternative comic.

See you at the comics store!

DC NEW 52: ANIMAL MAN rules the kingdom (another A+)

2011-11-22T17:14:00.001-05:00

ANIMAL MAN #1 – 3 (DC) : Story by Jeff Lemire. Art & Covers by Travel Foreman. Interior & Cover Colors by Lovern Kindzierski. Letters by Jared K. Fletcher.

ANIMAL MAN is about as far-removed as you can get with a super-hero title and still consider it part of the super-hero genre. The script and art are not conventional fare, and take chances. For these reasons, ANIMAL MAN should be one of the NEW 52 books that you pick up and give it a chance to win you over.

SO, WHAT HAPPENS IN THIS BOOK? (If you want to avoid spoilers, scroll down to the next subheading.) - - -

The world of hero Buddy Baker is being turned upside down. His youngest daughter is exhibiting powers similar to his that manifest in different ways. The nightmares that bothered Buddy in Issue #1 are becoming reality. He learns that his origins are false, and all along he has been just a small piece of a larger puzzle - - and his four-year-old daughter Maxine will play a more important role in it than he will. Buddy has to travel beyond the skyline to another realm that is . . . home. That home - - “The Red” - - is being threatened by a competing race of otherworldly beings that threaten the entire universe.

WHAT DO I LIKE?

1) I love that ANIMAL MAN occurs in Buddy Baker’s family-oriented world. He is a family-centered hero and depends on those relationships for his confidence, security, and purpose. That family atmosphere also makes it incredibly easy for readers to empathize with the characters and to feel concern for what happens to them. Now, the entire Baker family is embroiled in the current crisis and at risk. There are few writers better than conveying a sense of home-spun values, family and belonging than story-teller Jeff Lemire.

2) I appreciate the darker elements of this book. Lemire is developing an epic saga reminiscent of H. P. Lovecraft and Weird Tales with its hints of elder races in universal order versus chaos conflict. The way that Foreman illustrates these creatures helps to enhance the strange ways.

3) I also like the way Lemire uses the older Baker child, pre-teenager and non-super powered Cliff, to break the ice during moments of high tension with a humorous comment or two. As he and his mother flee from danger, one of the Hunter creatures crashes against their windshield. Cliff yells out “holy crap!” only to get scolded by Mom (“Watch your mouth, young man!”) As their car gets away leaving the Hunter trying to re-assemble its form on the side of the road - - Cliff says “That was awesome!” while Mom Ellen laments “I can’t believe I married a super-hero”.

4) I’m entranced by the highly imaginative art of Travel Foreman. His images of the Red are creative and original. He seems to have a sense for what Lemire is detailing and gets it down perfect. Whether it’s a panoramic view of this strange otherworld, the facial expressions (some great fear shots) of the characters, or the way details of the art overlap the panels make it delightfully different.

WHAT DON’T I LIKE?

1) I have no complaints about ANIMAL MAN whatsoever. However, as I mentioned in my review of Issue #1 - - I don’t like that the DC editorial/marketing department ignores the amount of press that they receive here at BC Refugees. We don’t want much – just some free reads now and then.

DO I HATE IT, DISLIKE IT, FEEL INDIFFERENT/NEUTRAL, LIKE IT, OR LOVE IT?

I have much love for this book, and I’m moving on past Issue #3.

and now, one of the books I decided not to stay with after sampling the first issue . . . . . . . . . .

BATGIRL #1 (DC): Gail Simone, writer. Ardian Syaf, penciller. Vicente Cifuentes, inker. Ulises Arreola, color. Dave Sharpe, letterer. Adam Hughes, cover art.

BATGIRL #1 is a good introduction to this book and the character changes that have been made. The story is good. The art is good. I just wish it was great, and that I could more easily accept the NEW 52 version of BATGIRL. While I consider the writing skills of Gail Simone to be great, I’m still not happy enough with BATGIRL to want to come back for more.

What’s changed is that the Joker’s bullet that creased her spine only confined her to a wheelchair for three years. Now that she has recovered, she intends to fight crime from a tooled-up handicapped van that contains her bat-cycle. She’s moving away from Dad (Commissioner Gordon) and sharing the rent on an apartment with a new character, a bohemian artist (that I’m not warming up to, but I’m guessing there’s more to her than is revealed so far).

I confess that I prefer Barbara Gordon as Oracle, and feel that she can play a much more important role and be a more effective component of the Batman universe in that capacity. (I guess that means that I have some understanding for the adamant fans who know how they like their Superman to be and can’t stand to see him in blue jeans. I promise not to criticize them.) Adieu, Oracle. You will be missed.

I also get the feeling that this book would more appropriately be called BATWOMAN because, as depicted by artist Syaf, Gordon sure doesn’t look like a teenager. She also doesn’t act like a teenager as portrayed by Simone. Hey, they are calling this book BATGIRL!

Don’t get me wrong - - BATGIRL #1 is a good read. There is an interesting new villain, The Mirror, who seems to have walked off the screen of FINAL DESTINATION and taken on the same responsibilities as the Grim Reaper in those films. I’m just not coming back for more. It’s easier to drop this book than some of the other NEW 52 titles.

Comics I Read: Marvel Top Five (ish)

2011-11-21T11:41:00.000-05:00

I've spent a lot of time on DC's New 52 lately, and I'll probably continue to check in with them once a month, but I'm long past due to talk about my favorite Marvel titles.

My Top Five

Ultimate Spider-Man: It was the most daring, game-changing idea ever in the Ultimate universe: replace Peter Parker permanently as Spider-Man. (And no, I don't think they're ever going back. At least not with Bendis.) Instead, Brian Bendis and Sara Pichelli have created a hero for a new generation, and I'm really enjoying getting to know him. Miles Morales got his powers while Peter Parker was still alive, so Bendis wisely backs up the clock in #1 and shows us his story from the beginning. With #4, we've caught up to Peter's death and funeral -- which I wasn't mentally prepared to relive, because I actually teared up the first time -- from Miles' point of view. (The Miles pages from "Ultimate Fallout" also fit into #4.) I won't give away exactly how, but Bendis draws a direct line from Peter's inspiration to be Spider-Man to Miles. It was a gesture I really appreciated, and it made me feel like the torch has been officially passed. As I've said before, Miles is my Ultimate Spider-Man now. Peter's story is done (and ended well), and I wouldn't have it any other way. (However, there have been some appearances from Peter's supporting cast and I hope there will be more.)

Daredevil: Frankly, even if "Shadowland" had been more creatively successful than it was, Matt Murdock would have been damaged almost beyond repair. Even worse, it was kind of a mess at the end -- though I still maintain the last page redeemed it somewhat -- so how could the character be rescued? Along came Mark Waid, who decided that Matt's coping mechanism was to have a positive attitude and not deal with his feelings about what he's done, like the good Catholic he is. (Murdock, not Waid, whose religion is both unknown to me and irrelevant.) Visually, Paolo Rivera and Marcos Martin's simple genius & innovative styles make this book a joy to look at and Waid's scripts show such a mastery of craft that they're a joy to read. They make it look easy, but I'm sure a lot of hard work goes into it. Without sacrificing depth -- Matt's going to have to deal with his issues someday, if for no other reason than his friends will force him to -- this book just makes me smile on a level I can't fully explain.

Avengers Academy: As much as I enjoy the other books, this is by far my favorite Avengers title. It was risky to create new characters instead of using existing Avengers or their kids, especially with "Young Avengers" alread successful, but Christos Gage created some great characters and the fact that they're new has allowed some real consequences for them. The stuff they go through during "Fear Itself" is particularly heart-wrenching, and the point one issue makes a good case for an alternate way the kids could be using their powers other than being Avengers. The cast has recently expanded to include potentially every young Marvel hero, which I was a little worried about, but #22 proved that Gage & company haven't missed a beat. The great Tom Grummett ("Superboy", "New Titans", "X-Men Forever") is coming on as regular penciller soon, which I'm really excited about. (Grummett & Gage just did interviews at Newsarama if you're interested in getting some more background on the book.)

FF: Jonathan Hickman not only understands what the FF is about, he's amped up both the family and the exploratory aspects of the book by expanding the cast (except poor Johnny) into the "Future Foundation". Hickman's the master of intricate plotting (see "Secret Warriors") and all the moving parts of the story he's been telling since before his first issue are now locking into place in an exciting and unpredictable way. The book's had a number of artists, especially since it's been double-shipping lately, but if they can't keep Steve Epting then Barry Kitson would be an excellent choice. For example, I love the relaxed body language between Reed and Sue on the panels from #10 I've included here. Marvel obviously wants us to think Johnny will be back in #600 this week, which makes me think it'll happen some other time, but apparently when the book splits in two, "Fantastic Four" will follow the adults and "FF" will follow the kids. (Which should be interesting, because Valeria Richards is one scary child.)

Amazing Spider-Man: Meanwhile, in the land where Peter Parker is still Spider-Man... The "Brand New Day" era was about building up new situations and a new cast, but when Dan Slott took over as solo writer he decided to embrace Spidey's place in the larger Marvel Universe and his rich history. It's a delicate balancing act, but Slott pulls it off well. "Spider-Island" was the most successful of the smaller-scale crossovers; much better than "Shadowland" in my opinion. (Due in no small part to artist Humberto Ramos, by the way.) The spinoff minis were also mostly high quality, though unfortunately Nick Spencer's "Cloak & Dagger" didn't sell well enough to get an ongoing series. There have been times I thought things were changing too quickly, but when I went back and thought about it those things were status quo for 8-9 months, which is around 16-18 issues or almost a year and a half if the book didn't ship twice a month. Slott's always adding new and interesting elements to Peter's life, but with new complications to go with them.. This is a good, solid, well-crafted, entertaining book, and I often go for it first when it's in the pile.

Honorable Mentions

If I'd had time to write a detailed top ten (OK, thirteen) I would have included these titles.

Moon Knight: It's Bendis & Maleev, so you know it's good, and I love that they're playing with West Coast Marvel which nobody's explored in a long time.

Journey Into Mystery: Kieron Gillen's doing a kind of Sandman-y book here, which is probably an unfair comparison, but I can't think of a better one offhand. Loki, now a kid, has to rely on subtly manipulating those around him as a means to his (now good?) ends. Gillen is great about answering reader questions on Formspring and giving background information on his blog. He says #632 is a good place to jump on, "and also a fine Christmas gift for a friend who you only want to spend a couple of quid on."

Generation Hope: Loved Gillen's #1-12, have not read James Asmus' #13 yet but I have high hopes. (No pun intended.)

Uncanny X-Men & Wolverine and the X-Men: I like the ideology of the split, and both first issues were great (but very different).

Thunderbolts: Golden Age Thunderbolts! 'Nuff said! (Almost: the art by Kev Walker and Declan Shalvey is always first-rate.)

Punisher: Rucka's taking a different tack here by not letting us inside Frank's head anymore. Great noir stuff by a master.

SHIELD: I wish I liked this as much as Hickman's "Secret Warriors", and I wish they published it more often, but it's an exciting and ambitious book and Dustin Weaver's art is phenomenal.

The Usual Suspects

These are all quite good too: Avengers (Prediction: the character Bendis just brought back in #19 makes me think a related character will not survive "Children's Crusade"), New Avengers, Captain America, Captain America & Bucky, Mighty Thor, Invincible Iron Man, Fear Itself.

RIP

Recently cancelled books I liked: Alpha Flight, X-23, Black Panther, All-Winners Squad: Band of Heroes, Iron Man 2.0.

Looking Forward To

Matt Fraction & Terry Dodson's Defenders, and Ed Brubaker & Buitch Guice's new series (which I won't name because the title kinda sorta gives away a secret of "Fear Itself" and that collection isn't out until January.)

THE HORROR HUNTER: With classic monsters, retro FLESH AND BLOOD Hammer-pounds the fear !!

2011-11-20T20:09:00.002-05:00

FLESH AND BLOOD, VOLUME ONE (Monsterverse) First Printing, September 2011 $14.99 TPB : Written by Robert Tinnell. Illustrated by Neil Vokes. Color by Matt Webb. Lettering by Mike Anderson & Rick Lebo. Cover by Dan Bereton. www.monsterverse.com

The advance solicitation in PREVIEWS for FLESH AND BLOOD and its promise of an original graphic novel that paid tribute to the classic Hammer horror films was more than enough to get my attention.

Next, the text introduction to FLESH AND BLOOD, VOLUME ONE really engaged all engines of the hype machine to red line high pressurization. The intro, written by Tim Lucas (editor of VIDEO WATCHDOG) makes repeated reference to the Hammer legacy. Lucas claims that FLESH AND BLOOD is “nothing less than the epic Hammer horror film that generations of fans have yearned to see . . . .” and he calls it “the wish fulfillment of Hammer’s fan base.” It’s a great prelude to the graphic novel itself, but left me a little apprehensive - - wondering how FLESH AND BLOOD could possibly measure up to those expectations.

FLESH AND BLOOD VOLUME ONE does not disappoint. Page after page, panel after panel, the script and art deliver on the promises and praise of the introduction. And it’s only just beginning. After an exhausting and chilling start, there are three more volumes to follow. This is an epic saga, and I wonder in delight at what other terrifying treasures are yet to be uncovered.

There is a film-like pacing throughout which only enhances the memories of those classic Hammer movies of the 1960’s and 1970’s. Reading FLESH AND BLOOD is similar to holding the storyboards in your hand for a new Hammer filmic fear fest. Viewing the gorgeous art of Neil Vokes is almost like looking at animation cels. However, they are not simplistic in appearance and the the work is more detailed. These are not cartoon animation cels - - more like adult animation cels where the images are more horrifying, bloody, and also erotic. Both Hammer Studio’s bloody tendencies as well as its suggestively sexual open-bodice female characters are represented and recreated here.

Robert Tinnell’s script pays homage to the genre and utilizes characters and situations to the maximum in what Lucas referred to in his introduction as “the epic juncture of Hammer’s great horror franchises in one dramatic, compelling . . . “monster rally.” You will recognize many of the classic characters as well as names of places. If you are a fan of Hammer Studios you’ll also recall the names of characters matching those of actors, directors and producers in Hammer history. SPOILER ALERT - - PROCEED WITH CAUTION!! The story opens as one of the oldest vampires, Carmilla, is caught in the act and killed, but perhaps not before she has influenced her victim - - Laura Ward Baker. The difficulty of the estate and its manservants to dispatch of Carmilla convinces the lord of the manor, Lawrence Ward Baker, to take further measures to protect his family. He is persuaded to form an armed company to rid the land of all existing vampires by a sinister and dark appearing friend, only identified as The General. The General is a Styrian, “a different breed from you English. There’s something primitive, elemental in our nature - - nearly as black as that of the vampire. . . . . When we visit revenge on an enemy we are not content with his death. No . . . we are driven to exterminate his family. His wife. His children. Burn his home. Wipe out every trace of his existence.”

Ward Baker next recruits Doctor Victor Frankenstein, whom he rescues from a mental institution along with the young doctor whose patient Frankenstein was. This doctor turns out to be Abraham Van Helsing., who immediately becomes entranced by the beauty of Laura Ward Baker. The company then capture another female vampire for Dr. Frankenstein to experiment on in hopes of developing a serum or potion to destroy all vampires. Lastly, Ward Baker enlists the assistance of Horst, his brother-in-law who has a reputation for fighting the forces of darkness. Horst has just recently defeated a werewolf but not before suffering a wound that forces him to have his manservant chain him on nights when the moon is full.

Not to be upstaged, Erzebet, the sister of the dead Carmilla, requests the assistance of the king vampire Vlad/Dracula to stop Ward Baker before they get too far along. An army of vampires attacks the monastery where their forces are encamped during the conclusion of Volume One.

The artwork is incredible and the colors by Matt Webb are vivid. There is much use of red and orange / blue and gray to outstanding effect = warmth and cold, fire and ice, light and dark, passion and frigidity. Some of the images seem as if viewed through eyes glazed over by blood. As drawn by Vokes, Dr. Frankenstein resembles actor Peter Cushing. Dracula looks like actor Christopher Lee. Carmilla reminds me of actress Ingrid Pitt. And Horst reminds me of the actor who portrayed Kronos in the classic CAPTAIN KRONOS, VAMPIRE HUNTER.

There is a great but short reference article in the back of the book with further information on some of the characters. This is followed by a second story, to be serialized in future volumes. “Operation Satan” is also very short, just three pages to set the stage for a story that is described as homage to another classic film series – The Quatermass Trilogy. It’s also written by Robert Tinnell with black-and-white art by Bob Hall, tones by Kerry Gammill, and lettering by Rick Lebo.

FLESH AND BLOOD VOLUME ONE is an absolute horror gem, and another addition to my long box of “keeper” titles.

DC NEW 52 - - - ACTION COMICS makes the A+ list

2011-11-17T09:08:00.001-05:00

ACTION COMICS #1 – 3 (DC): Grant Morrison, writer. Rags Morales, penciller #1. Rags Morales & Brent Anderson, pencillers #2. Rags Morales & Gene Ha, pencillers #3. Rick Bryant, inker#1. Rick Bryant & Brent Anderson, inkers #2. Rick Bryant & Gene Ha, inkers #3. Brad Anderson, colorist #1 , 2. Brad Anderson & Art Lyons, colorists #3. Patrick Brosseau, letterer. Rags Morales & Brad Anderson, covers.

Unpredictable! The thing I enjoy the most about the new ACTION COMICS is that I cannot figure out where this is going. I just know to strap on, as I am coming along for the ride with no expectations except to be thoroughly entertained.

The current residence of Superman, Metropolis, is re-imagined as the city of tomorrow (as it’s often been described) except that this futuristic location is far from being complete. Amongst all the newly restored areas of the city with modernistic skyscrapers and architecture can be found neighborhoods in decline and in need of repair/attention. This bright and shiny city is rusting and tarnished at its edges, both externally and internally.

This Superman seems outwardly confident and aggressive (to the point of arrogance) but I sense it’s part façade. There are little hints throughout the story (especially in the scenes with alter ego Clark Kent) that Superman seems not so sure of himself or his direction. I prefer a little non-perfection in my heroes. Why shouldn’t Superman suffer a little anxiety now and then?

I haven’t been this interested in a Superman title since the 1980’s when writer/artist John Byrne re-shaped the style and tone of Superman, putting a different spin on events in the classic S: THE MAN OF STEEL mini-series and the KANDOR limited series. Unfortunately, once he was rewarded with a regular monthly title, he seemed to forget about those changes and went ahead with typical fare.

SO, WHAT HAPPENS IN ACTION COMICS?

SPOILER ALERT!: Skip this section and move onto the next area if you have not read these books yet.

Superman exists to right wrongs, but on more of an everyday city level versus the global and cosmic sagas we’ve been accustomed to reading. The people love him (initially). The government and military resent and fear him. An opportunistic General Sam Lane (father to Lois) wants to steal the secrets of his power in order to develop “steel soldiers”. Lex Luthor is a consultant to the military, intent on capturing Superman, uncovering his weaknesses and exposing him as an alien.

Superman rescues the inhabitants/squatters inside a building being demolished by a wrecking ball. We learn that Clark Kent is a highly respected investigative reporter (for the Daily Star) with a mission similar to Superman’s – to expose crime and corruption. Superman stops a runaway commuter train from crashing by putting himself directly in front of it.

Luthor has an unknown outside source feeding him information. He tries out the word “Krypton” on Superman and hears back “Noble Gas . . . Number 36.” Ha! There is also an anonymous source feeding tips to reporter Clark Kent, and a mysterious cloaked figure who warns Kent a “ghost” is watching as well as a white dog.

Luthor tries various methods of torture to uncover Ka-El’s secrets to no avail. He continues to correct others and refers to Superman as “It”. Dr. Irons objects to the torture and resigns his post as lead scientist on the “steel solider” project in protest. Although Sergeant Frank Corben wants to rekindle his prior relationship with Lois Lane and thinks of volunteering for the project after he sees how affectionately Lois refers to the Man Of Steel. Luthor’s take on torture is that the laws only apply to human beings, and wants to dissect his prisoner to learn how to “build warrior gods.” Superman escapes and has a brief telepathic conversation with the rocket that brought him to Earth, promising to return for it.

Issue #3 opens with a bit of history: the last days of planet Krypton and the city of Kandor. A new spin by Morrison has an “alien consciousness” invading the communications network and machinery. The presence also assimilates all data and seeks to preserve artifacts via its’ “terminauts.” Clark Kent is equally persecuted as police frequently search his apartment for any type of evidence they can use against him to stop his investigation into corruption. The exchange between Clark and Inspector Casey is priceless, as each questions the other’s morals and motives. The landlady, Mrs. N., finds some evidence the police overlooked.

The local television station and The Daily Planet (all owned by Glenmorgan) launches a media assault on Superman and turns public opinion against him. That was easy. I’m reminded of how media and political parties are currently putting spins on matters to make anything the other side comes up with to appear negative and unpopular. (And I’m not choosing sides here - - all are guilty. Why can’t they work together?)

The Factory For Tomorrow, another Glenmorgan project set up to manufacture new subway cars, has apparently been infested and its’ database is being copied by the Terminauts. The “Colony Of The Collectors Of Worlds” has also infiltrated the Steel Soldier project just as the first prototype becomes animated, perhaps without it’s human host. Luther correctly identifies his informant and immediately seeks to cover his butt by making another bargain.

There are tons of overlapping events in the first three issues of ACTION, which definitely lives up to its title. What else could you want?

WHAT DID I LIKE?

1) I like this version of Superman, more of a true champion of the people. The blue jeans and work boots help compliment that image - - as if he just took some time off from toiling in the wheat fields to come and save/help protect the common man. In the opening scenes he exposes a corrupt construction executive and forces a confession: “You know the deal, Metropolis. Treat people right or expect a visit from me.”

2) I appreciate that Superman is not 100% invulnerable or unbreakable. He is strong but he can still feel pain. He receives plenty of aches from tank bombardment, impact with a train, and various high pressure forms of torture during Luther’s interrogation of him.

3) I like the little gnome-ish, weasel-like businessman talking to Mr. Glenmorgan on page 1. (Just call him “Teetotal” until we learn his real name.) I sense there is something more to him than is revealed here. He manages to sneak away during Superman’s intrusion, and seems to have stolen Mr. Glenmorgan’s monogrammed tie!

4) The art by Morales and companions is outstanding. I haven’t seen this consistency and level of quality from him in some time. Some of my favorite scenes include the two-page stand-off where Superman stands on the edge of a balcony ledge just before he decides to drop to the streets below; the caption-less panels where the runaway train runs off the rails; and the double-page spread featuring the collapse of Kandor. (A special shout-out to the colors/ink team for some super-fine work.)

5) I also like that Lex Luthor is no longer the epitome of perfection, physically and mentally. He looks a little paunchy and overweight. The famous arrogance and superiority are still there but he slips from time to time and reveals his frustration, impatience, confusion, and self-doubt in certain moments.

6) I like that Superman isn’t 100% handsome and attractive. In fact, he can look downright frightening and otherworldly, especially when his eyes emit heat vision, microwaves, or other forms of energy.

7) I like that Grant Morrison seems to be at the top of his game in Issue #1. He relays so much information and background on Superman/Clark Kent without once interrupting the flow of the story. It just blends right in. A masterful job.

8) There are respectful nods throughout to the legend and legacy of Superman and his creators. I especially like the cover to Issue #1, as the numbers on the police cars correspond to the year in which ACTION COMICS was first published: 19 + 38.

9) The backup features beginning in Issue #2 have been great! Behind the scenes with the creators. Insights into the other Superman titles at DC. And, beginning with Issue #4, a back-up story that directly links to the main storyline. What’s not to like?

WHAT DIDN’T I LIKE?

1) The disconnect with the other titles featuring Superman, which I believe will be corrected/adjusted as the storyline progresses, but makes for some confusion right now. The Superman in JUSTICE LEAGUE doesn’t act or look like the Superman in ACTION COMICS. Right off the bat, the costumes are different. The back-story in Issue #3 explains that the events in the new SUPERMAN book occur five years after what’s going on in ACTION COMICS. Ok, that satisfies me a little bit. But the first issue of JUSTICE LEAGUE says their events occur five years before current times. So, Superman should still have the jeans and work boots, correct? I’m thinking that JUSTICE LEAGUE occurs five years before current DC books and that means ACTION COMICS might occur ten years before current times. A minor point, but a little disconcerting. ( I haven’t read the other Superman-linked books so I’m not aware if things are explained any further there.)

LOVE IT? LIKE IT? INDIFFERENT? DISLIKE IT? HATE IT?

I love this book!

CORRECTION: I previously wrote that I had sampled 20 of the DC NEW 52 titles. It’s actually 21 books. I had already forgotten about DETECTIVE COMICS by then. So, why am I also not picking up DETECTIVE COMICS? While story and art are good, I just get the sense that I’ve been here before. It doesn’t seem novel enough, in spite of the surprise at the end of Issue #1. That’s where I stopped.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, November 16, 2011

2011-11-15T18:52:00.001-05:00

Lots of good books this week. Here’s some of the highlights I consider worth your time . . . .

BATMAN #3 (DC) - - - Loved the first two issues. Time to pick up Issue #3 of my 3-issue trial. I think this one is staying in my monthly rotation.

BLUE ESTATE #7 (IMAGE) - - - Quirky, pulp fiction set in urban Los Angeles with all the seedy, depraved, conflicted, manipulative and neurotic characters you could hope for in a single cast. Great escapism. Mature readers only.

FEAR ITSELF #7.3 (MARVEL) - - - You’ve come this far. Why not see it through to the after-conclusions?

HAPPINESS IS A WARM BLANKET, CHARLIE BROWN Trade Paperback (BOOM!) - - - - An original graphic novel based on the beloved characters. I’ve seen a preview of this in PEANUTS #0 and it’s faithful to the Schultz legacy. And delightful.

HAWKEN #1 of 6 (IDW) - - - Can’t wait to see the latest dark Western saga from Tim Truman. A collaboration with his son.

iZOMBIE #19 (DC) - - - - Lot of dark fun with the undead and assorted monsters courtesy of writer Chris Roberson and artist Mike Allred. You can jump in anytime and pick up on the story. If you do, you’ll come back for more.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #3 (DC) - - - This will be the capper issue that determines if I continue with this series. Issue #1 had great art but a disappointing script. The story in Issue #2 was much better and the art took it to another level.

KEY OF Z #2 of 4 (BOOM!) : I turned out to be right about what effect Ewing’s little musical artifact would have on the zombies. This issue turns into a “heard it before” tale of two rival gangs jockeying for territory, etc reminiscent of THE WARRIORS and the ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK / ESCAPE FROM L.A. films. However, the art by newcomer Carlos Magno is worth your attention.

PLANET OF THE APES #8 (BOOM!) - - - Second story arc ends this issue, but the conflict is far from over. If you have been following this series you will go crazy for the art in the battle scenes this issue. It’s a damn shame that human leader Sullivan and apes leader Alaya have grown so far apart since their days as students together. In order to avoid a blood bath, Sullivan negotiates and puts her trust in Alaya. Let’s hope she doesn’t regret it.

SCALPED VOLUME 8: YOU GOTTA SIN TO GET SAVED Trade Paperback (DC) - - - One of the best alternative (non-superhero) continuing stories you can buy for your hard-earned dollar. I’m several volumes behind, but I trust scripter Aaron has been maintaining the high level of quality on this title.

WONDER WOMAN #3 (DC) - - - One of the NEW 52 books I picked up on a whim. I feel I’ll be picking this one up for months to come. I like the way this is being handled, combining the mythic with the contemporary, and the darker themes under the surface.

See you at the local comic shop!

Books I Read: Dungeons & Dragons

2011-11-14T10:52:00.000-05:00

I haven't read a D&D comic in ages, but the writer of IDW's new series caught my attention, so I thought I'd try it and also see how their reprints of previous series held up by today's standards.

Dungeons & Dragons: Shadowplague HC: I was attracted to this because of writer John Rogers, who co-created the Jaime Reyes Blue Beetle. He's also the writer/producer of the "Global Frequency" pilot that never aired, and of TNT's current heist drama "Leverage". I was thinking "Blue Beetle" would turn out to be the key resume item here, but actually it's "Leverage". Rogers' characters have great personality and banter like the ones on his TV show, and that's what makes this my favorite D&D comic ever but also a darn fine series in its own right with universal appeal. Honestly, I could ramble on, but the best endorsement I can give is that I just went back to flip through the book to pull a couple of quotes for this piece and I wound up rereading the entire volume. The only flaw is that the book ends on a cliffhanger, but the next volume will be out any day now, so lucky you! Art is by the great Andrea Di Vito, of Crossgen's "Brath" and Marvel's "Annihilation" & "Nova". The hardcover is cleverly produced at the exact dimensions of a D&D game book, which means room for playable versions of the story in the back for current adventurers and nicely oversized art for the rest of us.

Dungeons & Dragons Classics Vol. 1 TPB: If memory serves, these comics published by DC in the 1980's are the first standalone D&D comic stories outside of "Dragon" magazine. The first story arc, while fun, is disappointingly unimaginative coming from Michael Fleisher, who wrote Jonah Hex through the 70's & 80's and wrote all those bizarre 70's Spectre stories where he cut people in half with giant scissors and such. (The Spectre, that is, not Fleisher, I hasten to say lest I get sued.) I liked the characters and how they're brought together by an incognito goddess, but their quest itself is not that interesting. The second arc, by Blue Devil and Amethyst co-creator Dan Mishkin, is much better. Oddly, two of the main characters -- the centaur and the paladin -- are just gone after the first arc with no explanation whatsoever. These are good stories, albeit aimed at a younger audience than modern comics, but with the names involved I was hoping they'd be great. The art, however, by comics legend Jan Duursema ("Arion", "Arak", "X-Factor" and apparently the basis for a Star Wars character), is outstanding. There's some game material included, but I assume it'd have to be converted somehow since there have been several major D&D revisions since these comics were published.

Dungeons & Dragons Forgotten Realms Classics Vol. 1 TPB: Oh, look, it's the "missing" paladin from the other book, starring in his own series! That would have been worth mentioning in the other story, you would think. (To be fair, there may have been some cross-promotion in the original issues that IDW edited out, the same way they've carefully removed the DC logo from all the covers.) Anyway, these stories are written by veteran D&D game designer Jeff Grubb. As such, they're a little more complex, like a good campaign with lots of different factions having different agendas, and with the imagination of a module designer who isn't used to being concerned about some poor schlub trying to draw his ideas. (There's a valley full of dragons...) Fortunately, the art is early work from Rags Morales, artist of "Identity Crisis" and most recently Action Comics #3, who can pretty much handle anything thrown at him. The "Forgotten Realms" setting also gives D&D fans a chance to see some of their favorite characters, like the powerful wizard Elminster, in the story. I prefer the cast of characters in this book, including the struggling with faith paladin, an iron golem, and a wizard who thinks he's on the same level with Elminster and isn't, even though Grubb is sometimes not too subtle about the game elements. ("Cure Light Wounds!", says the paladin a lot.).

Overall, I recommend the John Rogers IDW series for everyone -- it's that good -- and the Classics reprints for kids, and for adults who are into D&D or fantasy literature. (Though "Game of Thrones" they ain't, obviously.)

DC NEW 52: THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS

2011-11-12T17:24:00.001-05:00

It’s been awhile since I’ve commented on the DC NEW 52 books, but not for lack of interest. There are plenty of places to read reviews of the new titles, including right here where Jeff has been doing a fine job of keeping pace - - and because of that I haven’t felt a sense of urgency. But I remain interested, intrigued, and delighted by the results so far and have to give DC an A grade for effort. It’s a formidable task they set before themselves and they’re pulling it off for the most part. Book orders are up. There is renewed interest in these classic characters. Some older readers are returning and even brand new faces are showing up in comics stores and becoming regulars who return for more. For me, what DC has done is understand an essential component of why we follow comic books in the first place - - - the sense of wonder, the escapism, the simple joy of reading. They have grasped it at the very root, and are tapping the vein.

However, as far as being able to partake of all this nectar that is being offered to us (a whopping 52 new titles) many of us do not have unlimited funds (or stomach) available. That is where the careful selection process has to occur - - - and that is where comics bloggers like myself and Jeff can perform a valuable service by helping to point out the books most worthy of your attention. It would be absolutely amazing if all 52 of these new titles continued into the following year and beyond. I expect several of them will be cancelled due to low sales numbers and/or deserved lack of interest. It would be an absolute shame if a worthy book was canceled simply because it was just part of this massive flood of new titles and was simply over-looked.

I’ve got to go back more than 10 years to a point where I previously devoted this high a percentage of my monthly comics budget to super-hero titles. I’ve earned somewhat of a reputation here for focusing on the “alternative” titles or genres of comics and not so much on the super-hero books. There’s a valid reason for that = what I write about directly reflects my current comics tastes and preferences. I’ve become somewhat jaded after reading comics for five decades and it takes a really unique direction or writing so good that I just can’t ignore it to get me to follow a super-hero book every month. It’s still too early to tell - - but DC may get me to make more room for them in my monthly budget.

DC was very wise to put out the free DC COMICS THE NEW 52 #1 sampler back in August, as it served to announce all the new titles and also introduce the writer/artist teams for each book. It just enhanced the excitement and started the wave of fan buzz churning. For me, it helped to narrow down my initial selections, and I wrote about those decisions here.

I decided to follow 9 books and commit to each title for a 3 issue trial. My selection was based on two considerations: 1) Did I think this was a book that seemed to have a greater chance of surviving beyond Year One? and, 2) Was it a book that appealed to my interests either because of the concept, characters, and writer and/or artist?

I choose these nine books for my 3 issue commitment: ACTION COMICS, ANIMAL MAN, AQUAMAN, BATMAN, BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT, BATMAN AND ROBIN, BATWOMAN, FRANKENSTEIN – AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E., and JUSTICE LEAGUE.

Of course, that didn’t stop me from picking up and sampling some of the other offerings, and as a result of that I decided to make an additional 3 issue commitment to these titles as well: ALL STAR WESTERN, FLASH, JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK, MEN OF WAR, SWAMP THING, and WONDER WOMAN.

In summary, I read 20 total #1 issues of the DC NEW 52 (38.5%) and increased my initial list from 9 books to 15 books that I plan to follow for 3 issues before deciding thumbs up or thumbs down.

I’ve already reviewed many of those first issues here, and from this point will hold off until I’ve finished all three issues. I’m also planning to write about those books that I tried and decided to abandon. I won’t rant about them. I’ll just be as kind as possible and explain why they don’t work for me. My goal is to draw attention to what I think deserves it and hopefully help selective readers make informed choices. I sure hope you are having as much fun with the DC NEW 52 as I am.

NEXT: ACTION COMICS #1 – 3 plus one of my cast-offs.

Green Lantern: The Animated Series

2011-11-11T21:38:00.001-05:00

Bruce Timm's new "Green Lantern" animated series premiered Friday night on Cartoon Network, and exceeded all my expectations.

I was pretty worried about the decision to computer animate this series. Previous attempts like MTV's "Spider-Man" & Nicktoons' "Iron Man" have had good action sequences but really stiff characters the rest of the time. But no worries: the CGI and Bruce Timm's signature animation style work together almost perfectly. The characters' movements are smooth, and Timm's stylized designs allow the faces to show a wide range of emotions with a minimum of movement. (There's a bit where test pilot Hal sees the Guardians' experimental super-spacecraft for the first time and his facial expression is priceless.) The lack of black lines also makes the ring energy effects look spectacular.

I'm a little bit in awe of Josh Keaton, who did a great job as teenage Peter Parker in "Spectacular Spider-Man" and yet somehow does a completely different, but equally great voice as adult Hal Jordan. (Hilariously, he also gets to do Hal imitating Ganthet for a few seconds.) Kevin Michael Richardson, who's also currently playing Martian Manhunter on "Young Justice", does a great Kilowog ("I make hammers.") and Tom Kenny, the voice of Spongebob Squarepants (!) is terrific as Red Lantern Zilius Zox. Apparently it costs a lot of money to render new characters in CGI, so expect to see a smaller cast here than in "Young Justice" or "Justice League Unlimited".

The story setup cleverly turns Hal & Kilowog into underdogs, far away from their 3598 fellow officers and their all-powerful masters. At first, the show seems like a light action-adventure, but slowly turns up the heat into something as deep and serious as anything "Batman: The Animated Series" or "Justice League" ever did. This show might not be at that level yet, but it's astonishingly close. When it returns with new episodes early next year I'll bet it will reach the same height or greater than Timm's other classic series.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, November 09, 2011?

2011-11-08T19:19:00.001-05:00

DECISION 2012: BARACK OBAMA (BOOM!) Writer: not credited. Artist: Damian Couceiro. Colorist: Digikore Studios. Letters: Steve Wands. Covers: Jeffrey Spokes.

The first presidential primary occurs later this month in the state of Iowa. On the Democratic side of the slate Barack Obama, the incumbent President Of The United States, will likely be the only choice to make. However, on the opposing side there will be multiple choices and the beginning of the process of elimination that will bring us to the most logical candidate to represent the Republican party when the 2012 Presidential race really heats up.

I like what BOOM! Studios has done to help create awareness of the many candidates, biographies in comics, comics in general, and BOOM! in particular. Back in September when PREVIEWS was soliciting comics orders for November 2011 BOOM announced that they were initiating the first comics political straw poll to coincide with the Iowa primary. A comic book biography would be created and made available to order for every single known candidate for President at that time. BOOM would tally the pre-order results and declare an official winner of the straw poll - - the single book with the most advance orders.

I’m sure they have been aware of the winning candidate for some time now, and are probably waiting for the appropriate moment to make their announcement. In the meantime, the first of these books debuts this month and is worth your attention. If all the books in this series that follow are as well done as DECISION 2012: BARACK OBAMA then BOOM! has completed a very worthwhile service. . . . . . Why? . . . . . Glad you asked!

This book presents a very complete and concise capsule summary of everything you would want to know about the candidate Barack Obama. The storyline covers his upbringing, background, education, job and service history and also summarizes his political career – touching on the key points of his time in the Senate and also the Oval Office. What I like best is that all the material is presented factually and objectively, without any editorializing or endorsements. BOOM! gives you some facts and information. You are free to make your own decisions.

Perhaps beyond the simple fun of seeing which title had the largest pre-orders in the straw poll, BOOM! is also providing a secondary service - - - they are providing a nice outline of the candidates to Comic Nation in the format that Comic Nation prefers. It’s also a very friendly format for younger readers to learn as well as a way for younger voters to get involved and learn more as we approach the critical election days of November 2012.

Obviously, since these books were put together many months ago, we will see some titles about some who have either already dropped out of the race or have yet to declare their candidacy. That’s a small price to pay in order to have these books come out at exactly the right time. Still to come are DECISION 2012 issues featuring Ron Paul, Michele Bachmann, Sarah Palin, Jon Huntsman, Herman Cain, Mitt Romney, and Rick Perry.

OTHER BOOKS WORTH A LOOK ON 11/09/2011 = BATMAN & ROBIN #3; BATWOMAN #3; FLESH & BLOOD VOLUME 1 TPB; FRANKENSTEIN: AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #3; HP LOVECRAFT: DUNWICH HORROR #2 of 4; HELLRAISER #7; JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #2 of 5; THE OCCULTIST #1 of 3; WULF #4.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, November 2, 2011?

2011-11-01T14:48:00.001-04:00

While DC’s NEW 52 seems to be grabbing the spotlight and commanding much attention, this looks to be a BOOMing week for new releases. Read on . . . . . . . . . .

7 WARRIORS #1 of 3 (BOOM!) Written by Michael Le Galli. Art by Francis Manapul. Colors: Christelle Moulart. Letters: Deron Bennett. Translation: Edward Gauvin. Covers: Francis Manapul. (Original European publication 2008)

Thanks to his innovative art style on the NEW 52 FLASH, there is a lot of current interest in Francis Manapul. SEVEN WARRIORS offers another look for Manapul in a different genre (semi-historical epic/myth) and provides followers of his dynamic art style a chance to see how he does with a smaller, multi-panel format as well as make notes on how much he has progressed since this work.

7 WARRIORS opens up with a nicely illustrated, semi-subdued two-page lovemaking scene (without captions) that lets us know that at least one of these partners is royalty, judging by the elaborate bedchamber. Cut to page three, and we learn that there is trouble in the kingdom of N’nas Amon. The capital, including the mountain-top palace of Queen Tsin’Inan, is under siege by the combined armies of Persia and Byzantium, following their massacre of the Queen’s armies.

These events force the Queen to hire mercenaries to protect the town. Those soldiers-for-hire include Cretans, Thracians, Vandals and Sarmatians. It’s with this last group, a race of Amazonian warrior-women, that the Queen appoints a separate band to aid Prince Aksamon in fleeing the city to safety at a hidden location.

The tunnels they must use to escape the city are not without pitfalls, as their are hidden traps. There is a lot of detail in the small panels and the story reads like an Indiana Jones adventure from this point. Not all of the warriors escape the traps. Unfortunately, one of the fallen was a “Saudara” (sister-wife) and this does not sit well with her surviving partner who seems to grow bitter and resentful. It’s a nice beginning to the three-issue mini-series.

BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES #1 of 4 (BOOM!) Written by Corinna Bechko and Gabriel Hardman. Art by Gabriel Hardmon. Colorist: Jordie Bellaire. Letterer: Ed Dukeshire.

Fresh off the popularity of the recent PLANET OF THE APES series, BOOM! adds this new mini-series. While this is not even close to the level of intricate plots and outstanding artwork of that series, BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES is a very interesting addition to the APES body of work, and is much better than the APES comics being produced in the prior three decades. If your appetite for more primate fare has grown as a result of the great new PLANET OF THE APES series, then this tale will more than satisfy.

BETRAYAL OF THE PLANET OF THE APES takes place 20 years before the events of the first movie (with astronaut Taylor) and begins with the trial of a respected orangutan, brought to court for the heresy of teaching a human to speak the language. He is absolved of guilt, but this does not sit well with a faction of militant gorillas, who seek to poison the teacher, Doctor Cato, and blame it on his human slave. This backfires as the slave escapes and the conspiracy is uncovered by the respected General Aleron, now a citizen and defense attorney for Cato.

As a counter-measure the disgruntled opponents of peaceful co-existence with humans seek to uncover some dirty laundry in Aleron’s past and have him confined to jail under suspicion of murder 15 years previously. As with the best of the APES tales and movies, there are many parallels and similarities to modern society. A good read is in store here.

MARKSMEN #4 of 6 (Image/Benaroya) Script: David Baxter. Art: Javier Arandia, Garry Leach & Jessica Kholine. Cover: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman.

This is the all-out battle issue, and it’s awesome to watch it unfold. If you enjoy G.I. JOE and similar books, love military combat with high-tech gadgets = especially armored vehicles in battle - - then this is the issue of MARKSMEN that you’ll want to pick up. The battle is epic in scale and beautifully detailed by the art team.

Drake, Hercules, Orion, Ulysses, Athena and other members of the Marksmen set out to free key scientist Shannon Heston, who was abducted by the minions of Duke last issue. In order to reach her, they have to fight their way to the enormous mobile command center of the enemy and somehow find a way inside. While Duke works at interrogating Heston by torture, she learns there is much more to this seemingly Christian leader (she calls him “ a professed no-tech Luddite”) than his public image might indicate. He’s well-schooled in biochemistry and also employs the tools of science/high tech, including a massive electro-magnetic pulse that disables the Marksmen tech, especially the smart-phones-in-their-sunglasses that they depend on for surveillance, etc.

A surprising double-agent working inside the command center helps make the rescuers succeed in their mission and get away. The New San Diego command center has to rely on a faulty death-ray to ensure their troops succeed, and the resulting misfire has disastrous results. (It seems only appropriate that the deployment officer inside the command center is code-named Shiva.)

The art in Issue #4 is damn near perfect in every detail, especially the use of shading, depth, overhead and angular views, and body language close-ups. Dynamic is the word. I can find no flaws. There is so much action in this issue that it could easily seem like writer Baxter simply wrote a brief outline of what he wanted to have happen – and let the art team free-style and “go to town” with it. However, after watching a brief You Tube interview with Baxter I learned that he has a “strong arts background” and loves working in comics (previously worked as a screenwriter) since he can direct the action. That may be why the story has such a fluid flow and actual events progress as the artwork tells the story.

By the way, there’s also a lot of revealing background and explanation behind the creation of New San Diego and MARKSMEN on the Benaroya site ( http://www.youtube.com/benaroyapublishing) that makes for some interesting viewing. I was able to confirm that, as I suspected, the events of MARKSMEN occur in the near future after a recession progresses and government collapses when civil war breaks out. Baxter simply followed through on this process, imagined what cities might best be equipped to survive on their own, and chose San Diego.

PEANUTS #0 (KaBOOM!) $1 introductory issue. Cover + classic Peanuts strips by Charles M. Schulz. New material by writer/artists Ron Zormann and Vicki Scott. Colors by Lisa Moore. Inks by Paige Braddock.

For $1 you just can’t go wrong - - unless you decide not to pick up this book. You’d be depriving yourself of a great example of the pioneer break-through work done in older newspaper comic strips by the great, trail-blazing Charles M. Schulz. He introduced comics from the “funny pages” to all audiences and brought respectability to the format through his utilization of the Peanuts characters to turn a mirror on contemporary life, reflecting our phobias and quirks- all the things of human nature that are silly. Peanuts should be required reading for all students of child psychology and adult psychology.

The opening story, “Carnival Of The Animals” by Ron Zormann is very close to the classic Schulz style in both story and art. In defending some of Snoopy’s crazy play-acting behavior, Lucy implies that Charlie Brown has no imagination which sends him into a defensive tirade. Naturally, Lucy has the last word and trashes his self-confidence.

This is followed by some classic reprints of Peanuts strips featuring football kicker Charlie Brown and holder Lucy plus Snoopy’s pal Woodstock, a Halloween pumpkin strip and a lazy fall afternoon conversation between Charlie and sister Violet. The closing story “Woodstock’s New Nest” is a delightful story without script by Vicki Scott that relates Snoopy’s attempts to help Woodstock locate a new nesting place.

The capper is the final offering, a preview of HAPPINESS IS A WARM BLANKET, CHARLIE BROWN, an upcoming original graphic novel featuring Snoopy’s various attempts to extract that security blanket from soft-spoken Linus.

THE RINSE #3 (BOOM!) Written by Gary Phillips. Art by Marc Laming. Colors: Darrin Moore. Letters: Steve Wands. Cover: Paul Azaceta.

THE RINSE #3 includes my favorite cover of the week (so far), featuring multiple targets all within gun sights including the reflection off a pair of shades. The story inside is getting better and better as it moves along.

Jeff Sinclair barely manages to get himself away from the crash scene that ended last issue when a horse-back policeman wants to detain him as a witness. He’s in the process of “the biggest rinse of my career.” Meanwhile hoodlums Griff and Graham continue to pursue Sinclair, as well as the physically and mentally sharp Detective Della Dash.

Unfortunately for Sinclair, he has some strong ties to his father as well as his close friends, and this leaves a trail that others can follow to him. And, he can’t keep all records solely in his head. He manages to get ahead of his pursuers just long enough to extract some of that revealing information from one of his “safe houses”, a V.F.W. outpost, just minutes before they arrive. Later, he gets out of a second predicament when the impatient girlfriend (as well as wife of crime lord Maxon) of his customer Winslow uses her credit card and gets traced by the thugs.

Even though I admire the cleverness and soft heart of the rinser Sinclair I can’t totally warm up to this character. But, as of this issue I do have a hero to admire - - and that is Detective Dash. You have to admire her guts and street smarts and she evades the hoodlums and zeroes in on Sinclair. She figures out Sinclair’s trail and follows him to his real “bank” connection.

ROGER LANGRIDGE’S SNARKED #1 & #2 Writer & Illustrator Roger Langridge. Colors Rachelle Rosenberg.

Fresh off his ground-breaking work on THE MUPPET SHOW and THE MIGHTY THOR Langridge debuts his latest creation, an original spin-off based on the Lewis Carroll Alice In Wonderland poem = “The Walrus And The Carpenter”. Langridge fleshes out those two characters, places them in a mystical medieval village, and gives them a quest/mission to propel their stories forward.

This is great stuff for younger and older readers alike, a whimsical saga with many funny moments. Wilburforce J. Walrus (the walrus character – duh!) and Clyde McDunk (the carpenter character) are classic con-men, living a hand-to-mouth existence and spending much of their daytime activities focusing on where to obtain/con their next meal. Wilburforce is a classic cartoonish character - - a blend of Foghorn Leghorn, W. C. Fields, and Jackie Gleason. Clyde McDunk seems like he stepped right out of the pages of POPEYE or at least THE GOON.

The King has been missing for six months since he departed on a snark hunt. In his absence the evil regents plot to appoint Prince Rusty as new ruler, someone they feel they can freely manipulate (since he is about two years old). However, the precocious and savvy Princess Scarlett reminds them of the age restrictions on ascension to the throne - - meaning she becomes ruler despite being female since she meets the cut-off date (approximately seven years old). Smart enough to realize that the regents’ next option may involve her murder, she grabs her brother and escapes to the village where she enlists Wilburforce and Clyde and appoints them royal protectors.

There follows an episode involving tracking them down by The Gryphon, a character who will remind you of the bald eagle general from the Muppets. They manage to elude him and determine to get their hands on the map that will lead them to the supposedly disposed and captive King. Lots of fun in store here, and worth your checking it out.

OTHER BOOKS WORTH CHECKING OUT THIS WEDNESDAY: ACTION COMICS #3; ANIMAL MAN #3; BATMAN #2; ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #5; H P LOVECRAFT: THE DUNWICH HORROR #1 of 4; HELLRAISER #4; JACK AVARICE IS THE COURIER #1 of 5; MORIARTY #6; SHERLOCK HOLMES: YEAR ONE #6; SIX GUNS #1 of 6; THE STRANGE TALENT OF LUTHER STRODE #2 of 6; SWAMP THING #3; WAREHOUSE 13 #2; WITCHDOCTOR #4 of 4.

Comics I Read: New 52 #2s

2011-11-01T11:11:00.000-04:00

Of the New 52 titles I'm still reading, my reaction to the second issues was much the same as the firsts, but here are a few that changed my mind and/or surprised me in some way.

Action #2 & Superman #2: I liked both of these better than the first issues, now that we're getting a better sense of who this guy is (especially in Action). In Superman, I also appreciated that General Lane was played more as a guy who kinda has a point instead of a mustache-twirling villain.

Aquaman #2: The novelty of the "underdog superhero" isn't going to last forever, but I like the way Johns uses it to play up Arthur's humility. ("I'm happy to teach them.") The art, again, is stunning: one of the best-looking books in the whole line.

Firestorm #2: Something interesting happened with this issue, where the printed version did not reproduce properly but the digital version was perfect. Seems like not a huge deal at first glance, but I think we'll look back on it someday as a watershed in print vs. same-day digital comics. The digital pages are free from the limitations of real-world color reproduction, so they can always look like the artist intendend and even (theoretically) be corrected after the printed book ships. (And it's a great story, of course, even better written & drawn than #1.)

Hawk & Dove #2: Passed. I'm done giving money to Liefeld because he was awful to a friend of mine recently. (A person who was a fan, not a critic.) Yeah, that may seem like an insignificant protest, which hurts Rob minimally and also has Sterling Gates as collateral damage, but I'm constantly telling people that it doesn't matter if you complain about a title online. The only thing that matters is whether sales go up or down, so it's time I practice what I preach. And there are so many good books out there now that I don't feel too deprived giving up a writer and some characters that I like. As an alternative, here are some other titles where your support would probably mean a lot to the creators (and they haven't encouraged their fans to hate on anyone that I'm aware of): Roger Langridge's "Snarked!" (Boom!), Nate Cosby's "PIGS" (Image), Greg Pak's "Dead Man's Run" (Aspen), and Jay Faerber's "Near Death" (Image). (Faerber says he's also writing for the CW's "Ringer", which is kind of a shame because every character in the show is an idiot. Though I keep watching it, so they must be doing something right.)

Red Hood & The Outlaws #2: I like this book. I liked the first issue too, even though I criticized the handling of Starfire. Now Scott Lobdell's doing interviews saying Kory was being "sarcastic" in #1, and that of course she doesn't have a "Finding Nemo" memory. That's great, Scott, I'd love for Starfire to be the smartest character in this book, and it's awesome if that's what you intended all along. But here's the thing: I only can go by what's on the page. I can't read your mind, and I shouldn't need to read your press. And there's no indication in the dialogue or the art in #1 that Starfire's not being genuine. So please don't talk about the people who (mildly) criticized your book, but are still buying and enjoying it, as if we don't "get it". We're not the ones who didn't do our jobs properly. And no, I don't think this is the same thing as judging a story before its ending, which I'm usually not in favor of. (Is this post getting a little ranty? I feel like maybe it's a little ranty.)

Justice League #2: Maybe it's just that I'm comfortable with the relaunch now, but I liked this a lot better than #1. In the larger group, Batman seems more like a leader than a jerk. It's also nice that the Hal/Barry friendship still exists, and I loved that Batman pegged Barry as a cop right away.

Blackhawks #2: There's some slight hope here, with a subplot about the covert ops team being revealed to the world. That would at least be an original spin on the G.I. Joe idea that the "real" G.I. Joe comic can't do, but if this book is going that route they're inching there very slowly.

Men of War #2: Oohhh, now I get it. This is the military version of "Gotham Central". Sold.

Supergirl #2: Better than #1 (which I liked). I thought they did a good job of showing Kara's disorientation, and I actually felt something when she learns that Krypton is gone. Which is a huge accomplishment, given that it's information that I've known basically my whole life.

Legion Lost #2: This absolutely should have been issue #1. I wasn't as bothered by the frantic pace of #1 as most people were, but this issue is far more thoughtful and lays out the characters and premise in a much more understandable way. Hopefully the chaotic opening wasn't a fatal mistake for this book.

Voodoo #2: I kind of like this a little less now that the title character (spoiler) has returned to her original form. I was hoping she'd kill her way from one identity to the next each issue, like a murderous version of Deadman. (Yeah, that doesn't sound so sensible now that I say it out loud. Never mind.)

On the DC animation front, an ending and a beginning. The last couple of episodes of "Brave and the Bold" air in November, and I will miss it a lot. The last season has been especially awesome because Superman and Wonder Woman became available to the show, and the fact that they were nearing the end -- 65 episodes is standard for kids' cartoons for economic reasons -- seems to have emboldened them to use every wacky Silver Age idea they could think of, like this Alfred vs. Luthor bit below from "Triumvirate of Terror!". The series finale "Mitefall!", starring Bat-Mite and a surprise guest star that I will not reveal here, airs on Nov. 18, and afterwards I will be sad. Bruce Timm's new Green Lantern animated series has an hour special on Nov. 11, and then premieres in the spring. I was concerned about the CGI animation being stiff like "Iron Man: Armored Adventures" is, but the opening scene looks remarkably smooth. "Young Justice" also continues to air new episodes this fall, and is an excellent show. (And YJ doesn't just feature the junior characters; one of the most recent episodes had 42 DCU characters in it, including the JLA, a surprise JSA cameo, a Secret Society of Super-Villains and even Milestone's Icon & Rocket!)

In other Green (actually Red) Lantern news, an Atrocitus & Dex-Starr preschool playset exists. I have seen one with my own eyes. (Oddly, there were no pictures of this online until recently; I originally saw it on the back of another package in the store.) And hey, guess who spent too much on Legionnaire action figures!

Lastly, from the "they reviewed it so I don't have to" department: Peanuts expert Nat Gertler takes a detailed look at the Peanuts comic out this week, and Star Trek author and friend of the blog Allyn Gibson reviews Star Trek/Legion of Super-Heroes #1.

SHORT TAKES: Real fears and close calls . . . . .

2011-10-28T15:33:00.001-04:00

CRIMINAL MACABRE: NO PEACE FOR DEAD MEN (Dark Horse) Story: Steve Niles. Art: Christopher Mitten. Colors: Michelle Madsen. Letters: Nate Piekos of Blambot

As in prior Cal MacDonald tales, the vampires and werewolves do not get along and the banter between them makes for some funny exchanges. However, they have to work together to bring down Cal, the greatest threat they face as pointed out by a new presence - - Salem, the daughter of the oldest vampire ever (but not named) who wants revenge for Cal’s murdering of her master and pissing on his corpse. Their new plan is to leave MacDonald alone but kill everyone who comes in contact with him, thereby driving him mad with frustration and pushing him over the edge. Even his ghoul friend, Mo’Lock, begins to sense that Cal is depressed and trying to isolate himself from the rest of the world.

There are plenty of battles and situations in this one-shot issue, including an amusing scenario where Cal resurrects the spirit that inhabits his murderous Chevy Nova. You’ll feel right at home with the art style of Mitten if you’re a regular partaker of HELLBOY or B.R.P.D. If you are a fan and have been following the saga of CRIMINAL MACABRE (as I have) then you’ll want this issue. It concludes with a major change and turning point, a prelude of things to come. And follow Cal’s next adventure in DARK HORSE PRESENTS #4.

IRON MAN 2.0 #9 (Marvel) Nick Spencer & Joshua Hale Fialkov, writers. Ariel Olivetti, artist. Ariel Olivetti & Jose Villarrubia, color art. VC’s Joe Caramagna, letterer.

I sincerely hope this book stays available for some time, and Marvel doesn’t give it the early yank. They’ve certainly not done much to promote it. The covers have been rather generic, usually just a drawing of Rhodey in the armor in different poses, or a scene not related to the story. The momentum built by the original storyline (which has still to conclude) was rudely interrupted by a 3-issue Fear Itself cross-over. Even though that story was really good, readers following the main story may have lost interest after a 3-month pause and not come back.

Those who have kept their patience and stayed with it have been rewarded. The Death Of Palmer Addley storyline thrusts into high gear with this issue, and it’s a shocker. In brief, Palmer Addley was a genius disgruntled government employee assigned to work on new weapons of mass destruction, etc. He committed suicide rather than continue on. Yet, since Issue #1 Rhodey has been globe-trotting to various catastrophic outbreaks - - all linked by the Kilroy-was-here type of message left behind at each site - - “Palmer Addley Is Dead”. Rhodey and his intelligence team have been scratching their heads trying to figure out how this is occurring so they have a chance to head it off. The method and motives are beginning to be revealed with this issue - - - it’s very creepy and the absolute scariest thing I have read this month = scary, because it’s plausible – if not now, sometime in our future. PICK UP THIS BOOK! Nick Spencer is a creative deviant, and there’s no better example of that than right here. If you require additional incentive, - - the color wash technique from Olivetti & Villarrubia is very cool to look at - - like painted art with a glaze over it.

WULF #3 (Atlas/Ardden) Writer: Steve Niles. Pencils and Inks: Nat Jones. Colors: Mai. Letters & Design: Richard Emms

If you are sensing a theme to this column – it would be my attempt to do some quick reviews of books with dark or horrific themes as we approach Halloween. What distinguishes WULF from just another barbaric homage to Conan is its dark and horrific themes – plus it takes place in a modern setting. Wulf has been displaced from his planet/realm of existence due to the machinations of a wicked sorcerer who, having decimated Wulf’s planet now seeks other worlds of conquest.

In following the trail of the evil Sanjon, Wolf was transported to modern-day Earth and formed a reluctant partnership with police investigator Sam Lomax (another resurrected Atlas character). Together, they follow Sanjon through space/time and end up back on Earth - - or is it? Sanjon gets stronger as he siphons off power and energy from living beings. He finds some competition from other alien parasites in this issue as they suck some of Sanjon’s energy away.

Steve Niles is scripting this book, and knows his way around darkness and also macabre humor. I like the light touch in the relationship between Lomax and Wulf as Lomax tries to explain a very confusing modern world to the barbarian. There are lots of double-page and full page panels to showcase the art of Nat Jones, which deserves the attention. He’s got a fluid and uncluttered style that would fit right into the pages of SPAWN. It’s the combination of art and otherworldly themes in WULF that are reminding me of that book.

There’s a neat confrontation with Sanjo which ends the book (and maybe one of the characters) and heralds the re-introduction of another favorite Atlas character on the last page: IRON JAW. WULF is a fun and entertaining diversion from the normal fare of super-heroes and barbarians.

THE STRANGE TALENT OF LUTHER STODE #1 of 6 (Image) Writer: Justin Jordan. Artist: Tradd Moore. Coloring: Felipe Sobreiro. Lettering: Steven Finch.

The source that inspired writer Justin Jordan came right out of classic comic books from the 1960’s. What if those ads in those comics for body-building courses (that claim to turn puny nerds into powerful chick magnets in a few months) actually worked? There is more than enough gratuitous violence, blood and guts in LUTHER STRODE to satisfy gore hounds. The redeeming factor is the story line and the characters, both a little funny and empathetic lending a lighter tone to the proceedings. You can see the transformation of Luther from an insecure introvert to a confident confrontational personality. I’m not sure which of the two I prefer yet. The art work and colors remind me of the same effect the art team had on the CHEW books - - they put a lighter spin on the circumstances, making it seem a little less grisly than it really is.

The main villain, The Librarian, is introduced (though he has yet to meet Luther Strode) and he is even more bloodthirsty and ruthless than Luther was as seen in the opening pages bloodbath. This book may be worth watching.

GHOSTBUSTERS #1 (IDW) Written by Erik Burnham. Art by Dan Schoening. Colors by Luis Antonio Delgado. Letters by Shawn Lee.

NOTE: GHOSTBUSTERS #1 sold out at the distributor level. IDW has now scheduled a second printing of Issue #1, expected to hit comics stores on November 23, 2011.

I thought the story would grab me before the art but the reverse is true. While the art is appropriately cartoonish in nature, there is far more detail and depth that you might expect to see in a “funny book” aimed at all ages. All the familiar characters are back, including the Ghostbusters team who are quickly introduced in the opening pages as guests on a daytime talk show: Dr. Peter Venkman, Dr. Egon Spengler, Winston Zeddemore and Dr. Raymond Stanz. We also see gal Friday Ja’nine, the Ray Puft marshmallow giant, and the Green Slime ghost monster - - this issue’s threat as he slimes an entire low-rent apartment building.

There’s a three-page sub-story with more serious art by Tristan Jones that deals with a newly-appointed PCOC (Paranormal Contracts Oversight Commission) to investigate whether the contracts between the City and Ghostbusters for their services are valid and legitimate. Good fun. Nice to see these guys again.

NEAR DEATH #1 (Image) Story: Jay Faerber. Art; Simone Guglielmini. Color: Ron Riley. Letters: Charles Pritchett. Cover: Tomm Coker & Daniel Freedman.

If you love a monthly dose of crime comics and can’t wait for each issue of Ed Brubaker’s CRIMINAL to arrive - - you’ll find plenty to satisfy your urges through Image Comics. No other company (in my current recollection) is doing as much to showcase this genre as Image is.

Hit-man Markham gets shot up badly trying to complete his assignment and just manages to come crawling to the doorstep of a sympathetic veterinarian. (Ever notice how much emergency medical work that vets get in movies, television and comics? Maybe there’s an underground economy here that I’m not aware of.) During the operation, Markham almost dies and has a near-death experience that convinces him to change his ways. He starts out by returning to the contract work he failed at and rescues the target, someone who was under the care of Federal Marshalls as a protected witness. He sneaks her away and sends her packing with enough money and supplies to start over again on her own.

This gets him into trouble with both his former criminal bosses/clients as well as federal prosecutors and law enforcement and makes him a marked man. NEAR DEATH sets things up at a quick pace in very readable fashion and gets to the end sooner than you’d like. Have to come back for me.

The art and shading/colors are very appropriate for this type of tale. If you forget what book you’ll reading, you’d almost think you were looking at some pages from CRIMINAL.

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER SEASON 9 #1 (Dark Horse) “Freefall, Part One” Script: Joss Whedon. Pencils: Georges Jeanty. Inks: Dexter Vines. Colors: Michelle Madsen. Letters: Richard Starkings and Comicraft’s Jimmy Betancourt. Cover: Steve Morris.

I’m not even a casual reader/viewer of Buffy fare, but I picked this up on a lark - - - just in case I was missing something excellent and didn’t know about it. For a book that I presume is aimed at a teenage/young adult readership – this is pretty good stuff. Who knows Buffy better than Joss Whedon, anyway? I’m amazed that he continues to write several comics series while helming the production of the upcoming blockbuster AVENGERS movie at the same time! (Can’t wait to see that one, btw.)

I doubt that anyone who reads comics or follows the fantasy/horror genre through movies and television is totally unfamiliar with the world of BUFFY, but SEASON 9 is a book that anyone could pick up and start fresh with. The short summary on the contents page brings everybody up to date and says it all:

“With the destruction of the seed, the fight against Twilight was brought to an end, and magic’s connection to our earth was severed. No more Slayers will be chosen. No more Slayer army. No more gang: Buffy’s a waitress in San Francisco; Dawn and Xander are attempting normal domesticity; Willow is struggling with the loss of her powers. It’s a new (ish) world, but there are still demons and vampires to slay - - - even as their popularity with the masses continues to grow - - and Buffy is on point to do what she has always done . . . . . She is the Slayer.”

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: SEASON 9 begins as a transition point, a stage of relaxation after what has just been accomplished and before what is to come. As a consequence, Buffy is a little off her guard and decides to “party”. And Issue #1 is like a “party” issue - - it’s a bit of fun, it reminds me of a good Archie book with the dark stuff added and a little more sexual awareness than you see in Riverside.

It starts with Buffy waking up in a strange bed and without most of her clothes on. She doesn’t remember a thing as she meets up again with old friends and associates. She gets confused about her work shift. There are some interludes with darker moments interspersed in between the fun that hint at threatening things to come, and an ending page that brings a chuckle as a demon emerges to remind Buffy that “it’s time to pay!! - - - - - your student loan! . . .” I’m thinking this isn’t about college tuition but more likely for services rendered in training her to become a Slayer.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, October 26, 2011?

2011-10-25T21:34:00.002-04:00

THE VAULT #3 of 3 (Image, October 26 release) Story SAM SARKAR. Art GARRIE GASTONNY. Color SAKTI YUWONO. Cover GARRIE GASTONNY & BAGUS HUTOMO

The story of THE VAULT (so far) wraps up this issue with an ending that leaves us wondering if the creature is dead, down for the count, or just temporarily trapped in the depths of the ocean. Issue #3 doesn’t dwell long on theories as to whether the grisly winged skeletal creature is a creation of heaven or hell - - it just gets right to the action. The explorers thought they had escaped the monster and left it on the island, but a dangerous squall threatens to divert their ship right back to land. Doesn’t matter -- the creature has stowed away on board (as you might suspect) and proceeds to take out expedition members one at a time - - until it gains enough confidence to attack the entire group in one bloody battle. The only thing that has a chance at stopping it are some artifacts, the same rod and seal that when removed freed the creature from entrapment. THE VAULT ends with a very creepy conclusion, a satisfying horror tale that will make a good movie (an announced Johnny Depp production) and provide some real scares the same way that the ALIEN movie did.

PLANET OF THE APES #7 (BOOM!) “The Devil’s Pawn, Part 3” Writer, Daryl Gregory. Artist, Carlos Magno. Colorist, Nolan Woodard. Letterer, Travis Lanham.

What I like most about this series is that it is very fresh and creative, in spite of being based on the original movies/television/novels, etc. It’s may be the best comics adaptation of licensed science-fiction material for your time and money right now. The writing is dynamic. The art is gorgeous. Issue #7 opens up as the city heads towards violent civil war. Both sides are gathering weapons and support. The new ruler of the apes makes her first speech to rally the populace in support of her decision to take the battle right to the human settlements, and it’s an impassioned call to arms worthy of the inspiring speeches of the former Lawgiver, although the purpose now is war rather than peace. The humans make a pact with both a suspicious religious cult to get advanced weaponry and an unscrupulous arms dealer for the rest. Small skirmishes erupt this issue in re-training camps and elsewhere as things come to a boil. I suspect the next one or two issues will be combat intensive.

OTHER NEW BOOKS WORTH A LOOK ON 10/26/2011: ALL STAR WESTERN #2; AQUAMAN #2; BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #2; DAREDEVIL #5; FLASH #2; FLY #5; HAPPINESS IS A WARM BLANKET, CHARLIE BROWN TPB; JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #2; KIRBY: GENESIS #4; RED SKULL #4 of 5; RED WING #4 of 4; SPACEMAN #1 of 9.

BOOKS: a glorious overview of comics’ place in mythology

2011-10-22T19:55:00.001-04:00

SUPERGODS (WHAT MASKED VIGILANTES, MIRACULOUS MUTANTS, AND A SUN GOD FROM SMALLVILLE CAN TEACH US ABOUT BEING HUMAN) by Grant Morrison (Spiegel & Grau / Random House) 445 pages, hardcover, July 2011

I’m not sure if Morrison intended for that subtitle to be there, or if it was a last minute add-on by the marketing department. Regardless of who takes credit for it - - it certainly creates some reader expectations, expectations I’m not sure the book is equal to meeting.

What SUPERGODS does succeed in doing is take the reader on a journey through the history of comic books , focusing on four key periods as defined by Grant Morrison (Golden Age, Silver Age, Dark Age, Renaissance), and selecting critical titles that best represent each period. For each period, Morrison includes details on how it had an impact on him as well as what stage of his writing career he was in at that particular time.

I considered the subtitle of SUPERGODS and considered how I might try to answer it: “What can masked vigilantes, miraculous mutants, and a sun god from Smallville teach us about being human?” That’s a monumental task, indeed. So I’ll start small and keep it personal: Comics and superhero tales taught me how to read at an early age, and then accelerate my vocabulary and improve my reading comprehension level well beyond my elementary school grade. It did the same thing for my two sons. My parents read comics to me until I was old enough to read them myself, and there was some family bonding in that process. I took up the same practice and introduced my sons to comics first by reading to them. Comics led me to an interest in mythology, science-fiction and fantasy literature. I developed an appreciation for fiction and reading from the launching platform of comic books. When comics in the 60’s began to write about heroes who were younger and closer to my own age I empathized with those characters much easier and felt a certain kinship. Some of my personal values and principles were developed from lessons learned in comic books. Can comic books actually have the same impact on societal development that mythological heroes and legends did in ancient times as they were passed on from generation to generation, and even used in such a way as to explain the whole world and universe around them? That’s a huge stretch of speculation - - but I can see a thin thread of connection there. No need to prove it to me, Mr. Morrison. That’s like preaching to the choir.

So I don’t expect to see SUPERGODS added to the curriculum for next semester’s religion, philosophy, socialism, American history or ethics courses. SUPERGODS is certainly not Morrison’s masters thesis on the subject. And that’s a good thing. It’s a much more entertaining read in this form.

SUPERGODS is one man’s vision and interpretation of the meaning of comic books in today’s society. When that man is Grant Morrison you can expect certain things, and this book delivers on all of them:

1) It’s a wide-screen, high definition, cinemascope big picture view of each era’s importance to the over all genre. Unlike some superficial treatment that focuses more on microscopic facts/details and reads like a history book, SUPERGODS always points the way to the bigger meaning and spells it out.

2) Like everything Morrison creates, this book is infused with a big dose of his persona. Morrison sometimes approaches his subjects in SUPERGODS from unusual directions and perspectives - - but that’s what we’ve come to expect. Not everybody will like it every time, but it never fails to interest or intrigue.

3) The level of writing is advanced, and superb. If Morrison wasn’t such a great comics creator, he’d have an equally successful career as a comics reviewer, observer, or commentator.

4) He does attempt to answer the big question that is the subtitle of this book, but not in a chapter by chapter fashion, and he certainly doesn’t try to beat us over the head with his conclusions through constant repetition or factual evidence. Rather, as in most of his writing, he lays it out and leaves it to the reader to draw some of the conclusions.

If that isn’t enough to encourage someone interested in comics history and its’ place in history there are some additional bonus items that make SUPERGODS the captivating read that it is:

1) This is probably the closest thing to an auto-biography of Grant Morrison that is likely to ever see print. I learned a lot about the man himself from SUPERGODS, and it helped me to appreciate his writing more once I discovered some of the vast subjects he has investigated and explored. My, what a long, strange trip it’s been. Better you than I, Mr. Morrison. Some of his experiments with drugs, mysticism, and the dark arts would have turned many into blathering idiots. The result on Morrison is that it helped shape his world view and made him a better writer.

2) It also outlines a clear chronology of Morrison’s progression as a comics writer and puts his works into historical context with what else was being produced at the time (mainly in the Dark Age and Renaissance periods).

3) When he does editorialize, it’s always entertaining and often enlightening. I could cite many examples and pad out this review but I’d rather use the words Morrison chose to conclude the final chapter:

“Superhero stories are sweated out at the imagined lowest levels of our culture, but like that shard off a hologram, they contain at their hearts all the dreams and fears of generations in vivid miniature. Created by a workforce that has in its time been marginalized, mocked, scapegoated, and exploited, they never failed to offer a direct line to the cultural subconscious and its convulsions. They tell us where we’ve been, what we feared, and what we desired, and today they are more popular, more all-pervasive than ever because they still speak to us about what we really want to be. Once again, the comics were right all along. When no else cared, they took the idea of a superhuman future seriously, embraced it, exalted it, tested it to destruction and back, and found it intact, stronger, more defined, like steel in a refiner’s fire. Indestructible. Unstoppable. The superheroes, who were champions of the oppressed when we needed them to be, patriots when we needed them to be, pioneers, rebels, conformists, or rock stars when we needed them to be, are now obligingly battering down the walls between reality and fiction before our very eyes. . . . . . . . . . . There’s only one way to find out what happens next . . . . . . . . . . “

Books I Read: DC Universe Legacies

2011-10-19T09:26:00.000-04:00

DC Universe: Legacies HC stands as the last official history of the old DCU. (I asked Len Wein on Twitter if he knew that when he was writing it, and he said "No, though there's something sweet about that in a melancholy way.")

Wein tells the story from the point of view of a young boy in Metropolis' Suicide Slum, who later grows up to be a police officer. Similar to "Marvels"' Phil Sheldon, this gives Paul Lincoln the excuse to be present for major events without seeming contrived. We follow Paul and his family through the decades, with Scott Kolins drawing Lincoln's present-day framing sequence in his painted style.

The book covers from the introduction of the JSA to just before Ted Kord's murder at the beginning of "Infinite Crisis". This isn't a big retcon book; everything plays out pretty much the way it did before. One notable exception: instead of using the version of Superman's first appearence from Mark Waid's "Birthright" or Geoff Johns' "Secret Origins", the scene is straight from the first Christopher Reeve movie. ("Don't worry, miss. I've got you." "You've got me? Who's got you?")

The art is simply fantastic, drawn by huge names appropriate for each era: Andy & Joe Kubert, Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez & Dave Gibbons, George Perez, Jerry Ordway, Dan Jurgens, Jesus Saiz, and even more in the backup stories: Walt Simonson, Frank Quitely, Bill Sienkiewicz, Gary Frank, etc. It's well worth the money for the art alone, although I did enjoy the way the stories were retold a lot.

Somebody put some thought into this collection and separated the backups from the main story so that you can read the history uninterrupted. The alternate covers, which tie into each backup story, are also in this section which is another nice touch. The backups focus on heroes that weren't part of the main narrative, like the original Seven Soldiers of Victory, the Challengers of the Unknown, DC's war heroes, Orion & the New Gods, etc. My favorite is the Seven Soldiers story drawn by J.H. Williams III both in the style of Sunday newspaper strips and of the original JSA stories where the team would split up and have separate adventures. My least favorite is the Legion story. It's always awesome to see Keith Giffen draw these characters, but the story is a deliberate farce, which I didn't think worked in this context.

One of the backups is an Atom/Shining Knight story by Brian Bolland, which leads me to another legacy of the old DCU: Bolland's new coffee table book Cover Story: The DC Comics Art of Brian Bolland. Maybe Bolland will be part of the New 52 in some way, but for now he stands as a beacon of the old DCU, having drawn some of its most iconic covers. Not just an art display book, Bolland shows his process in pencil sketches and multiple essays about why things were designed a certain way. This is a must-have for fans of Bolland's work.

Another old DCU artifact worth noting is the recent $7.99 reprint of JLA: Age of Wonder, one of the last Elseworlds published, because writer Adi Tantimedh just reminisced about the making of the book ("How I Wrote The Steampunk Justice League") in his Bleeding Cool column in two parts.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, October 19, 2011

2011-10-19T08:52:00.003-04:00

ZOMBIES, NINJAS and DUCKS

KEY OF Z #1 of 4 (BOOM! Studios) Claudio Sanchez and Chondra Echert, writers. Aaron Kuder, art. Covers: Nathan Fox and Tony Moore

Can there ever be enough Zombie Literature?

Some will say never; while others crave no more after getting their fill. Me, I’m about 3/4 tank full on zombies right now after watching the Season 1 final episode and Season 2 opener of THE WALKING DEAD on AMC TV and then sampling several zombie movies during their Fear Fest which runs every day through October. That just means it’s time to read about them for awhile. I’ll always welcome another addition to the zombie offerings as long as I receive a good story and/or good art.

KEY OF Z starts off promising and looks to deliver a good story through it’s 4-issue run. The art is already great, and reason alone to keep an eye on this book. The style of artist Aaron Kuder is very creative, will remind you a little of Moebius and Quitely, and make you catch your breath with some of its more subtle touches and details. Kuder is definitely somebody to keep the spotlight on.

Writers Sanchez and Echert certainly didn’t impress me based on their past credentials. They previously worked on the ARMORY WARS and KILL AUDIO titles for BOOM! (haven’t read them) and are associated with the rock band COHEED AND CAMBRIA (haven’t listened to them). What impressed me are the script skills I see on display here in KEY OF Z #1. The book begins with a very heart-warming scene that instantly makes a connection between most readers and Nick Ewing, the main character. And the verbal exchanges between Nick and Eddie Alvarez , the other regular character come across as real and sincere rather than clichéd and forced.

KEY OF Z is a post-apocalypse tale set in New York City a few years from now. The city has sustained a plague of zombies and the survivors form gangs/clans (Yankees Lavoe and Jackson Mets) and live together in two compounds (both using sports stadiums). Both of these gangs has a dictator in charge and utilize street/thug methods in attempting to further establish and fortify their compound. The back-story hints at a third group that was more of a religious/Christian gathering led by a motivational speechmaker named Atwater. They made Madison Square Garden their home base, but the storyline implies that they are no longer in existence and/or Nick went his separate way from them.

You’ll find scenes and setting that will remind you of DMZ and WALKING DEAD comics, and THE WARRIORS movie.

Nick lost his family in a Christmas eve tragedy. Both story and art work together in an at first warm and peaceful, family atmosphere which quickly morphs into a violent , bloody mob scene on the streets. Here is where the art of Kuder will make you stop and take note, especially the beautifully detailed panel where the onrushing police car is seen in the pupil of Nick’s eye. Nick now lives alone and apart from both gangs. He bands together with Alvarez, when he narrowly escapes with Nick’s help from a reluctant gang assignment that went wrong. Alvarez needs rescued a second time as the book reaches the final pages.

The advance information hints at Nick possessing an artifact that gives him power. Based on the title of this series, the Christmas gift Nick received, and the item at the pitcher’s mound on the variant cover - - I’m guessing it’s a harmonica. Guessing a little more and thinking that Nick will mesmerize the zombies by playing the harp - - a la the Pied Piper of Hamlin. Guess I’m coming back next month to see if I’m right.

SAMURAI’S BLOOD #5 of 6 (Image / Benaroya) Owen Wiseman, story. Nam Kim, Matthew Dalton & Saki Yukon, art. Jo Chen, cover.

If you’ve been reading my previous reviews of SAMURAI’S BLOOD, then this may begin to sound like a broken record to you . . . . . .

Currently SAMURAI’S BLOOD is my #1 candidate for Best New Series of 2011 and Issue #3 is the front-runner for my Best Single Issue Story of 2011. The reasons are multiple: 1) Art that is not only breath-taking to view but that is perfectly in sync with the storyline and helps to enhance and embellish the impact the writer intended; 2) a history lesson of feudal Japan is enmeshed into the story which provides education and entertainment at the same time; 3) a better understanding of Eastern philosophy and the Samurai code of honor runs throughout the books in narrative captions as the story drives home its points; 4) it’s a marvelous part of a trio of debut efforts from a small company (Benaroyo) that is beginning to attract big attention; and 5) while it’s best appreciated as a whole it’s a tale that can be enjoyed in parts. You can pick up any single issue of this book and still catch on.

Issue #4 represented a defining mid-point in the storyline, as our trio of fugitive clan members also survive their initial trials, growing in the process while beginning to doubt they have what it takes to see their mission through and become who they want to be. It’s the learning curve of life. They get a splash in the face of hope in Issue #5 with the re-introduction of a powerful character who will help guide them the rest of the way.

Flashback to Issue #1 and the destruction of Aiwa village. All did not perish who remained behind. The last man standing was revealed to be Koga Iemutsu, who when surrounded by invading Samurai dispels them all away with his words, planting seeds of doubt and much fear in their minds. He is the fabled “Edo Ghost”. As one solider expressed it: “Gods do not die. They only wait.”

From there, Iemutsu walks a slippery slope of deception, presenting himself to the enemy camp as a mighty ninja and pretending to be there to assist the local warlord in ascending to Shogun ranking. Not fully trusting him, the warlord assigns Araku to shadow him. Everything has consequences. Ieumutsu’s evasive actions led to the very capture of Yuko in Issue #2. As the captions teach us: “Kago Iemutsu was accustomed to directing the rivers currents . . .. And so he had forgotten that a sword raised to strike may cut things of which the main wielding it is unaware.”

The themes for Issue #5 are redemption, fate, and honor versus vengeance.

More gems of Samurai wisdom from Issue #5: “Put two of anything in a cage for long enough and one of them ends up dead. . . . And sometimes for some men of great pride and great power, even the whole world is too small of a cage to live in together.”

The Edo Ghost succeeds in his deception, makes a powerful ally, and gets the choice assignment from the suspicious warlord to recruit a young street fighter, Haniya Toshimitsu, to lead his men in battle. And thus is Iemutsu re-united with his son Katashi. Their conversation leads Katashi to thoughts of abandoning his samurai quest and to take on the ninja mantle as his father did.

Iemutsu says “between honor and vengeance, I choose vengeance. If you cannot give up the pretensions of the samurai, then take this dagger and open your stomach, as you know you must. . . If your blood burns inside you, as mine burns within me, then return to your family. Our vengeance is at hand.” Katashi makes his choice.

Nest Issue: The Righteous Vengeance of Clan Sanjyo. Seems like the concluding Issue #6 is going to be a blood bath. Be there !

DUCK TALES VOLUME 1: RIGHTFUL OWNERS TPB (KaBOOM! Studios) Warren Spector, writer. leonel Castellani, Jose Massaroli, Ruben Torreiro, Magic Eye Studios, art.

As a way to introduce younger readers to comics – you just can’t go wrong by offering them a Disney comic. It’s been that way for decades, since the beginning of WALT DISNEY COMICS & STORIES from Dell, and Boom! Studios upholds that legacy by maintaining the same quality of writing and art. Their entire line of young reader books is outstanding.

DUCKTALES: RIGHTFUL OWNERS TPB is a great introduction to the world of money-hoarding Scrooge McDuck and his assortment of characters including aviator Launchpad and Huey, Dewey and Louie – his mischievous trio of nephews. It’s the museum opening celebrating the fabulous collection of treasures and artifacts acquired by Scrooge during his history of adventurous travel. The story open with a tour of the museum and a little trip/summary down memory lane before it gets into high gear, as various agencies conspire to steal and/or return these treasures to their original homes. I only had time for a short preview of this book, but it’s a great introduction and should provide great fun for adults lucky enough to read this to their young nieces and nephews.

OTHER TITLES WORTH EXPLORING THIS WEDNESDAY:

BATMAN #2, DARK HORSE PRESENTS #5, DEADPOOL MAX 2 #1, FEAR ITSELF #7, FREAKANGELS: VOLUME 6 TPB, H P LOVECRAFT: THE DUNWICH HORROR #1, HELLRAISER #5, JUSTICE LEAGUE #2, WARRIORS THREE: DOG DAY AFTERNOON TPB, WONDER WOMAN #2.

PREVIEWS: What’s New for Wednesday, October 12, 2011?

2011-10-09T21:51:00.001-04:00

BLUE ESTATE #6 OF 12 (Image) “Point Of No Return” Story by Viktor Kalvachev & Andrew Osborne. Art by Viktor Kalvachev, Toby Cypress, and Nathan Fox. Cover by Viktor Kalvachev.

All of the loose ends begin to come together in this issue, as we learn more of the connections between the large group of characters in BLUE ESTATE and how everything in this book in related to everything else (like the social game “Seven Degrees Of Kevin Bacon” played out in an infinite loop). I could see this storyline continuing for several years. It’s comforting to learn that there are 12 issues planned (at least for the first volume) so there will actually be some kind of ending or resolution.

It looks like the page one re-cap and character family tree (showing the connections between them) is going to be a regular feature - - and I certainly welcome that. You definitely need help keeping all the balls juggling in the air at the same time – and this helps. As I read through BLUE ESTATE (one trade paperback and two monthly issues) I keep looking for a character that I can at least empathize with -- it gives me something to care about as I watch what happens to them. So far, as soon as I start to feel even just a little bit of affinity with a character, they do something to betray the trust in the following issue. I was rooting for Rachel Maddox for two issues , and now she appears to be just as devious, scheming and selfish as every other character in BLUE ESTATE. Maybe I’m going to cheer on her brother, BILLY DUCHARME, instead. He certainly seems to be in a bad situation, and perhaps just a victim of circumstance. One thing that almost every character in this wants is some other character’s money or status. And every other character has ties to either the Italian mob or the Russian mob. Also, more than one character is engaged in what they are doing because they want to earn respect from their fathers.

So, what could I tell you about BLUE ESTATE #6 without spoiling the story for you? Well, this issue is concerned with faulty real estate deals, hostage and ransom – now to a revolving cast of money holders, a private eye’s surveillance on a supposedly cheating wife that isn’t everything that it appears to be, a supposedly caring AA sponsor who’s really after several other things, to name just a few. That’s only a sample/teaser. You’ll want to try the main course for yourself.

OTHER BOOKS WORTH CHECKING OUT ON WEDNESDAY: BATMAN AND ROBIN #2; BATWOMAN #2, FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #2; GREEN LANTERN #2; VICTORIAN UNDEAD VOL 2: SHERLOCK HOLMES VS. DRACULA TPB; WARRIORS THREE: DOG DAY AFTERNOON TPB; ELRIC: THE BALANCE LOST #4; HAPPINESS IS A WARM BLANKET, CHARLIE BROWN GN; HELLRAISER #6.

The Randomizer - - October 7, 2011

2011-10-07T19:55:00.001-04:00

SHORT TAKES

BRILLIANT (Marvel/Icon, July 2011)

I wasn’t sure I liked the beginnings of this creator-owned series by Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley on the first reading. I just wasn’t feeling any connection to it and didn’t care much for the characters. One month later I pick the book up again for a second read - - while waiting for a troublesome 5-page memo to successfully fax from my home office. The slow progress of the fax actually gave me more time to spend on the book - - and I found myself warming up to BRILLIANT. Even though the principal characters are all younger than my sons I found myself relating to them a little and ended up feeling that, as a slice of life look at modern college students, it was pretty accurate.

BRILLIANT is grounded in reality, at least for now, and hints (at first) at supernatural or arcane undercurrents within and then opens up to matters of a science-fiction or super-powered nature. Brainy college students (astrophysics majors, etc) decide to work together to decipher how super powers can be created. We are introduced to this by way of a character, Albert, who returns to campus after a one-year absence to find things have really changed while he was gone. When the group leader, Amadeus, decides to have a rooftop meeting to introduce their project and invite his participation, we learn some of the details at the same time that Albert does. The premise is a little flimsy but at least Bendis made an effort to come up with a rationale that led these students down this path.

The visual zoom-out panels on the last page reveal the rooftop group is gathered around an all-terrain vehicle. It also shows how high they are- - at least fifty feet or more from ground level - - and with no visible means of getting that vehicle up there. Perhaps they have already uncovered some of what may be science-based powers. (One of the members refers to a satanic source earlier, so I’m not certain about this). It does appear that at least one member of the group has - - as leader Amadeus is very generous to his friends and paid for this party-like gathering . You find out his source of income in the beginning of the story. No spoilers here.

Bagley does his always magnificent job. It’s the subtle things that draw me to his work - - his art is never flashy - -but just perfect in its details and scope. Always the right angle of view. Always the right body posture. Always the right facial expressions. As if he always knows exactly the best way to get the message of the story and character reactions across.

CRIMINAL MACABRE / THE GOON: WHEN FREAKS COLLIDE (Dark Horse, July 2011)

The first meeting of Cal McDonald and The Goon is written by Steve Niles and drawn by Christopher Mitten. Niles, the creator of Criminal Macabre, seems to know his way around Eric Powell’s The Goon character and is spot-on in his adaptation. Mitten’s style is similar to Mike Mignola and is well-suited for the large amount of small panels per page.

There’s a lot of story to cover in one issue. I’m also not sure how much Powell had to do with this book. He’s listed on the credits page as “farts and negativity”. However, that may just reflect the dark humor nature of this book. If you like your horror to be a little funny, you will love this one-shot (although the end hints at a sequel/continuation). This was the most fun I’ve had reading a comic this summer, and I’d love to see more.

In an older version of Chicago that exists on a dimensional plane, vampires and werewolves are the crime gangs and battle each other for supremacy. One side recruits Cal McDonald. One side recruits The Goon. They pound on each other for awhile until they figure out the scam and join together to rid Chicago of monsters. Hellboy makes a funny one-panel appearance.

Thank you, Steve Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2011-10-06T18:18:00.001-04:00

from the official press release . . . . .

STEVE JOBS COMIC BOOK BIOGRAPHY TO PAY TRIBUTE TO HIS LEGACY

Steve Jobs was nearly as iconic as his company logo. His legacy is that of an innovator, risk-taker, a visionary and a genius. With his recent passing, BLUEWATER PRODUCTIONS along with PAPERLESS PUBLISHING decided to publish the upcoming special edition biography comic book as an e-book available this week on the NOOK and Kindle.

The standard print issue, announced last June, will be released on schedule in three weeks. In respect for Jobs' lifetime of achievement and his brave fight against pancreatic cancer, BLUEWATER has pledged a portion of the issue's proceeds to the American Cancer Society.

“Jobs' vision and business acumen revolutionized the world,” said writer CW Cooke “Between he and Microsoft founder Bill Gates, you would be hard pressed to find someone with greater influence over how we communicate, interact and do business over the last 30 years.”

“STEVE JOBS, FOUNDER OF APPLE” offers readers a unique insight into the Apple CEO’s legendary drive to the top and his continuing fight to stay there.

The 32-page issue, penciled by Chris Schmidt (with cover art supplied by DC artist Joe Phillips), will be available in comic shops, bookstores and various online venues including Amazon. The current release date noted on Amazon is incorrect. The standard version of the book will be available on October 27 as well as on Comixology. The special e-book edition, co-published by PAPERLESS PUBLISHING, will be available for download on the NOOK today and the Kindle tomorrow.

The special e-edition of the book will include respectful reference to his passing and summarize the incalculable impact he had on modern society. This is not included in the print version.

“His innovations command front page news, speculation of his health affects the stock market. Not bad for a college dropout” said BLUEWATER president Darren G. Davis. “His story, and that of Apple, is epic. I'm surprised it took us this long to publish a proper, balanced biography of him,” said Davis.
“Steve Jobs was my hero, he changed the way we all live today. This book will not only celebrate him, but portions of the proceeds will go to The American Cancer Society in his honor. He will be missed greatly.” explained Meghan Kilduff, Publisher of PAPERLESS PUBLISHING.

According to BLUEWATER, the impetus to publish the Jobs biography was based on the demand and success of BLUEWATER’s biography comic featuring Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook published last spring. The expanded graphic novel edition is also exclusively on the NOOK and Kindle.

About PAPERLESS PUBLISHING:

PAPERLESS PUBLISHING was founded by Objective Entertainment's Jarred Weisfeld and is a full service e-Book publishing house. Meghan Kilduff has moved over from Objective Entertainment to be the new company's Publisher. PAPERLESS PUBLISHING is looking to publish both fiction and nonfiction in all genres. They plan to publish over 100 titles in the next year.
For more information, visit http://www.paperlesspub.com/

About BLUEWATER PRODUCTIONS:

BLUEWATER PRODUCTIONS is one of the top independent production studios of comic books, young adult books and graphic novels. Its extensive catalog of titles includes the bestsellers “10th Muse” and “The Legend of Isis” ”BLUEWATER publishes comic books in partnership with entertainment icon William Shatner (“TekWar Chronicles”), legendary filmmaker Ray Harryhausen (“Wrath of the Titans,” “Sinbad: Rogue of Mars,” “Jason and the Argonauts,” et al) and celebrated actor Vincent Price (“Vincent Price Presents”), Additionally, BLUEWATER publishes a highly successful line of biographical comics under the titles “Female Force” and “Political Power.” BLUEWATER aims to unite cutting-edge art and engaging stories produced by its stable of the publishing industry's top artists and writers.
For more information, visit www.bluewaterprod.com.

PREVIEWS: What’s New for Wednesday, October 5, 2011?

2011-10-04T22:17:00.001-04:00

Several mini-series I’ve been following have new issues this week:

RED SPIKE #5 OF 5 (Image/Benaroya) Story: Jeff Cahn. Art: Mark Texeira, Salvador Navarro, Ifansyah Noor. Cover: Mark Texeira.

I thought last month’s cover with it’s imagery of the Lincoln Memorial busting up was dynamic - - - I think the cover to Issue #5 of RED SPIKE actually tops its. Nice work by Mark Texeira with a subtle tip of the hat to the style of the 1960’s mens’ magazines cover style. The impact impression/indentation in the concrete wall is the topper.

The first story arc comes to an end here, as we learn that no one leading secret military projects or in the federal government overseeing them is free of corruption (not that any of us are surprised by that!). Colonel Moyer gets his day in front of the Senate investigating committee on the Red Spike project and bolts out of the hearing in an angry hissy fit. He’s determined to protect his pet project and go down fighting if he can’t save it, regardless of anyone else who gets swept up and damaged by his actions.

Things come to a head rather quickly, as the rest of the back story on project Red Spike is revealed and the threat to break it up is thwarted and apparently over for now. Good soldier Matt seems the only member of the adrenaline-augmented Red Spike team left to carry on. The last several pages hint at the future and things don’t seem too safe at all.

The art team does an incredible job this issue. There are plenty of facial close-ups and the expressions of intensity, anger, fear and outrage are spot-on perfect. Hope you were along for the ride. It was worth it. Bring on RED SPIKE Volume 2.

MARKSMEN #3 OF 6 (Image / Benaroya) Script: David Baxter. Art: Javier Aranda, Garry Leach & Jessica Kholinne. Cover: Tomm Coker.

If you enjoy G.I. JOE you will love this issue of MARKSMEN. There is more than enough military choppers, armored vehicles and jeeps, orbiting platforms and tech around to satisfy. The Trojan Horse maneuver of the fanatical would-be conqueror Duke comes off as planned and his forces gain access to the inside of fortress New San Diego. Some key personnel are taken hostage after sufficient damage to New San Diego’s high tech is suffered. Drake learns some truths about his heritage, and is dispatched to head up the rescue/recovery mission.

The scope and scale of the military forces on both sides as artistically portrayed by the art team is just perfect. It’s mostly an all-action issue and a fun and quick read. For those craving a little more, there is some nice interplay between the forces of faith-based religion versus hope-based science that whet the appetite for more conflict.

THE RINSE #2 (BOOM! Studios) Written by Garry Phillips. Drawn by Mark Lanning. Colors by Darwin Moore. Cover by Paul Azaceta. Letters by Steve Wand.

There’s just not a whole lot I can say about this issue without being a real spoil-sport for your fun. You will enjoy this book, provided you like your crime stories told in a similar fashion to the way the master (Ed Brubaker) tells them. This is on a par with the best of the CRIMINAL series, but provides insight into the world of a very professional and high stakes money launderer (a subject I don’t believe Brubaker has touched on very much).

Master money launderer Jeff Sinclair may have made a big mistake when he agrees to hide a middle-aged sad sack of a casino employee and help move the money he stole from the mob owners through the usual back street channels. Things get complicated when the employee’s girl friend shows up, who just happens to be the wife of a prominent member of the mob family. Things get complicated even further when the IRS agent Della Dash (great name!) gets aggressive and ramps up her investigation into possible tax evasion by Sinclair. And some psycho nut job with a vendetta is out there trying to get his revenge and take out some of the major players. The two enforcers the mob dispatch are also nut-jobs and very dangerous and brutal in their methods.

I’m also reminded of the way that the excellent television series BURN NOTICE provides insights via narration. Captions and thought balloons narrated by Sinclair give similar insight into the ways of the money laundering world. THE RINSE is a good book, and worth checking out.

OTHER BOOKS WORTH A LOOK THIS WEEK: ACTION COMICS #2, ANIMAL MAN #2, CALIGULA #4 of 6, iZOMBIE #18, MORIARTY #5, NEAR DEATH #1, ROGER LANGRIDGE’S SNARKED #1, STRANGE TALENT OF LUTHER STRODE #1, SUPERIOR #5 of 6.

Comics I Read: DC New 52 Week 4

2011-10-03T11:13:00.000-04:00

I thought the final week of new DC books was a good one. Again, the art is incredible across the board, and I have to shout out to all the colorists as well. A lot of these books rely on a specific color palette to really make the art pop, and the results show there's a lot of thought being put into that.

All-Star Western #1: No matter what Jimmy Palmiotti says, this isn't the same "Jonah Hex" book. It's the same Jonah Hex character, and I liked the addition of the urban Gotham setting, of Amadeus Arkham as the psychologist who finds Hex defies analysis, and the lush art of Moritat ("Elephantmen", "The Spirit"). However, I know of at least one fan of the previous series who didn't like the changes. Personally, I'm looking forward to more, plus the upcoming backups by other great creators. (This is a $3.99 book because it has extra pages.)

Aquaman #1: Really great, and surprisingly subtle. Ivan Reis' art isn't flashy here (though he's certainly capable of that), but so much of Geoff Johns' script depends on Aquaman giving the right look to somebody and Reis' faces are just perfect. I think this would be a mainstream hit, if there was a way to get people to read it. Easily my favorite of the three books Johns is writing. (I'm "hooked"! HA!)

Batman: The Dark Knight #1: I haven't read any issues of this since the previous #1, but it doesn't look like you need to know anything from that run. David Finch's Batman still looks great, but I'm still not into the writing (even with help from Paul Jenkins). Like Detective, this ends with a change to an existing Bat-villain that can't possibly stick. Nothing particularly wrong with this book, but no compelling reason IMO for it to exist either.

Blackhawks #1: My "meh" book of the week. Basically Mike Costa was hired to create a G.I. Joe/SHIELD hybrid, which he delivered competently (down to the nicknames) but I didn't care much about anybody in it. Which, given that Costa's "Cobra" from IDW grabbed me immediately, is not a good sign. (I've only read the "Cobra" issues that Christos Gage was involved in, but I'm told the issues Costa wrote on his own are just as good.) Nice to see artist Graham Nolan back in mainstream comics, though. (Well, arguably, the Phantom newspaper strip is more mainstream but you know what I mean.)

Fury of Firestorm #1: A complete reimagining of one of my favorite characters, which I'm fine with because the previous pairing of Jason Rusch and Ronnie Raymond didn't work for me because the jock vs. genius dynamic was messed up by the fact that Ronnie was an experienced superhero. I liked both Ronnie & Jason here, and I'm glad that Gail Simone and Ethan Van Sciver aren't afraid to go into the racial tension between them. This is another book that depends heavily on "acting", and Yildiray Cinar nails those scenes as well as the big superhero stuff.

Flash #1: I knew this would look gorgeous, and it sure does -- the double-page splash is especially awesome -- but the question was could Francis Manapul write? It turns out he can. (Yay!) I really liked the story that Manapul and co-writer (and colorist) Brian Buccelatto came up with. Loved this book before, and I still love it now. I have to admit, though, that I'm more upset that Barry & Iris aren't together than I am about Lois & Clark.

Green Lantern & The New Guardians #1: I thought spending the first few pages recapping Kyle Rayner's origin was an odd choice. Yes, he's the focal point of this book, but his origin is basically a guy in an alley giving him a ring, so I thought those pages could have been better used to explain all the ring colors. That said, I liked the mystery that Tony Bedard sets up and I look forward to seeing it resolved. Tyler Kirkham's art suits the book well; he can draw all the space stuff well, and there's a touch of whimsy in it too. (Like in Kyle's ring constructs.)

I, Vampire #1: This probably would have been the biggest surprise like of the New 52 for me, except that creators like Gail Simone have been praising it online for weeks. I'm kinda done with vampires in general, honestly, but I liked Josh Fialkov's love story and that he's not shying away from the fact that his vampires live in a world with Superman and the Justice League. Andrea Sorrentino, another name I'm unfamiliar with (according to his blog he's been drawing "X-Files" & "30 Days of Night"), provides some delightfully moody art. (Praise to the colorist here too.)

Justice League Dark #1: Another book that pros have been praising online for weeks, and I don't quite get why. I thought it was a good start, but I'm not blown away yet. Still, the conflict is interesting and there are a lot of great characters involved, so I'm in for the first story arc for sure. I can't find any previous credits for artist Mikel Janin beyond the "Flying Graysons" Flashpoint mini, but I really like his work here.

Savage Hawkman #1: Another reimagining, presumably because the previous Hawkman history was thought to be too confusing. Personally, I thought what Geoff Johns boiled it down to -- "Egyptian prince & princess continually reincarnated through time by alien technology" -- was clever and easy to understand, but whatever. The book isn't unsuccessful: I like Tony Daniel's writing much better here than in "Detective", and of course Philip Tan's art is really great. It's too bad we never got to see what James Robinson was planning; at least he's always trying something interesting even when it doesn't quite work (*cough* JLA). Anyway, I liked this enough to read an issue or two more, but I'm not in love with this yet.

Superman #1: There's a lot of story in this issue, but it's more about Metropolis than Superman. I'm not sure the casual reader will be as interested in the print-vs-online news debate as George Perez seems to be, but I liked it and I'm interested in all the new supporting cast. But I still don't feel I have a handle on who this new Superman is yet. (Clark Kent is a little more fleshed out, which is good, but there's still a lot to learn about him too.)

Teen Titans #1: I liked this a lot, actually. It suffers a little bit from the same complaint I had about Justice League #1 -- the whole team isn't in it -- but this isn't the flagship of the relaunch, so I think it works anyway. Tim Drake is well in character -- his "Look what you started, Bruce" moment is priceless -- and Brett Booth made the new Red Robin costume look much better here than it did in the pre-publication art. The concept works best if this is the first set of Titans ever, which the book implies it is, and we'll try not to think about how Nightwing can be the same character if that's true. (More on that later.) As predicted, the last page of this book is the same scene as the end of Lobdell's Superboy #1 but surprisingly from a different point of view.

Voodoo #1: Now here's a book that takes place entirely in a strip club, and yet I thought that was entirely appropriate for this character. Great story by Ron Marz, which I'm pretty sure is connected to "Grifter" (although the tie is pretty subtle so far). Sam Basri's characters are sexy without being oversexed, and he's able to do creepy when the story calls for it. The twist on the last page grabbed me for sure, and I liked this book enough that it even makes me want to go back and read all those Witchblade issues by these guys that I missed. The biggest pleasant surprise of the New 52, even though I was prepped to like it by Marz in Baltimore.

***

Dan DiDio has said on his Facebook page that it's been decided that there haven't been any Crisis events in the new DCU. His reasoning is good, but, really, you're just thinking about this now? (There's a reference to the original "Crisis" in Hawk & Dove #1, so this is definitely a new concept.)

I said to someone over the weekend that the one New 52 criticism that I started to agree with is that they should have gone "all in" and rebooted everything to avoid all this talk of what history still exists. Hearing what DiDio says now, though, I think it's less that and more that I'm bothered that between all the writer & artist changes and the fact that they didn't think through the timeline beforehand, it looks like they're figuring a lot of things out on the fly. (And yet, there are rumors of micromanagement as well.) In the real world, publishers, retailers and fans all need this relaunch to work, and it's a little scary that they're making it up as they go along. End of rant. In general, as you've seen, I'm pretty happy with the new books overall: this is more of a topic of discussion and not so much a major complaint. If this experiment is still a success six months from now, nobody will care about this minutia. (Thanks to DC Women Kicking Ass for the Facebook images; I have a friend request in to DiDio's page but it hasn't been responded to yet.)

***

My Marvel pick this week is Ultimate Spider-Man #2. I won't say that I actually like this book better without Peter Parker in it, because that would probably make my little fanboy heart implode, but let's just say it's damn close. Terrific stuff -- the scenes between Miles and his dad in this issue are both heartbreaking and inspiring -- and you can start #1 without knowing anything that went before. (Bendis & Mark Bagley's Brilliant #1 was also a great start.)

Favorites this week: Flash, Aquaman, Firestorm, All-Star Western. Looking forward to next week: Huntress (preview here), Avengers 1959.

If you're interested, you can go back and read my thoughts on the Week 1, Week 2, and Week 3 books, and I'll be back soon with my list of titles I'm going to keep following plus a last look at the old DCU via "DC Universe: Legacies".

DC NEW 52: THE FLASH and GREEN LANTERN

2011-10-02T07:27:00.001-04:00

I have to admit that I’m very pleased with the quality of THE NEW 52 books that I’ve picked up so far. They haven’t all been favorites - - but there are no duds (and thanks to Jeff’s reviews I also know which books to avoid). I also recommend both of these books. I haven’t quite decided yet if I’m going to start following them but I do intend to pick up Issue #2 of both. So, Mikes’ DC 12 remains the same. NOTE: As you might expect, I’ll be revealing some of the storyline in these reviews - - so don’t read this if you don’t want part of your fun spoiled for you.

THE FLASH #1 (DC, 9/28/2011 release) Story by Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato. Art by Francis Manapul. Colors by Brian Buccellato. Letters by Sal Cipriano.

This particular Flash is Barry Allen, my favorite version. (Wally West is #2 for me.) It doesn’t appear to involve many changes from the Old DC version to the New 52, at least so far. It is cool that we’ll now have more stories to look forward to with Barry Allen as Flash. One definite change is the role that Iris West will play in this new version. She’s an aggressive investigative reporter (a la Lois Lane) who relates to Barry more for the news leads he can supply her as a member of the Central City Police science lab.

On his first date with Patty (Barry is still shy), some commando-garbed thieves break into a technology symposium that they are attending. Barry sneaks away to change into his Flash costume and in the ensuing pursuit (they still get away) the Flash falls off the building rooftop with a robber attached to him. He uses his powers to whirlwind propel the thief back into the building through a glass window, and then cushions his own fall beneath the street level into the sewers. (The panel placement and art on the page where this occurs gives a really creative view of the action).

The Flash does recover the “portable genome re-coder”, which was one of the items the thieves were interested in. I have a feeling this object will play a future role in this storyline. There are consequences to this incident which deals with the question of how responsible super-heroes are for their actions and the moral implications when someone dies - -- the person Barry tried to save by forcing back into the building. It gets further complicated when the mask is removed to reveal someone that Barry knows from his college years. Hats off to Manapul and Buccellato for starting off with a gutsy story that will be sure to raise lots of questions (in spite of the surprise ending, which could provide an escape clause for Barry’s actions).

When skimming through the pages before deciding to pick this up, my first impression was that the art was sub-par. It’s not - - it’s just a different style that as I took time to study it I began to appreciate more. I like the subtlety and little touches that Manapul adds.

GREEN LANTERN #1 (DC, 9/14/2011) “Sinestro, Part One” . Writer: Geoff Johns. Pencils: Doug Mahnke. Inks: Christian Alamy with Tom Nguyen. Colors: David Baron. Letters: Sal Cipriano.

I like this book for much of the same reasons that Jeff mentioned in his earlier review. I’m not totally immersed in the Green Lantern universe (very complex) but I found this story very easy to follow. Writer Geoff Johns covers a lot of ground in this first story, but in a very fluid and smooth manner. I like the writing here much better than in JUSTICE LEAGUE #1. The art by Doug Mahnke is some of the best I’ve seen in the NEW 52 books, and is very dynamic. The inks and colors also really “pop” off the page. A beautiful book to inspect.

The cover indicates that the Green Lantern featured in this book is Sinestro (at least for now), which comes as a shocker. The Guardians feel that Sinestro needs a chance to redeem himself, and have appointed him a Green Lantern. My favorite Green Lantern, Hal Jordan, is back on Earth without GL powers and also without his former job responsibilities. He still thinks and acts like a Green Lantern, and can’t let go of his feelings of responsibility to save anyone in peril (he makes a mistake here that results in embarrassment). He’s not happy. And, he really crushes any romantic opportunity with Carol Ferris (one of my favorite scenes).

Sinestro, on the other hand, has an opportunity to prevent calamity, and comes through. But it doesn’t make him happy. I enjoy this story for the same reasons that Jeff does - - - both of these characters are miserable and how they resolve their issues is what will make this story interesting and entertaining. Sinestro finds Jordan and wants to make an offer - - - a “deal with the devil” indeed.

Comics I Read: Augmented Reality

2011-10-01T10:31:00.000-04:00

"Augmented reality is changing the way we view the world -- or at least the way its users see the world. Picture yourself walking or driving down the street. With augmented-reality displays, which will eventually look much like a normal pair of glasses, informative graphics will appear in your field of view, and audio will coincide with whatever you see."
-- from "How Augmented Reality Works" at HowStuffWorks.com

Augmented reality isn't just science fiction: smartphone apps like Yelp and Google Goggles can scan the view from your phone's camera and superimpose useful text on the images. But of course these comics take the idea to a sci-fi level that doesn't exist yet.

Warren Ellis' SVK: This being a Warren Ellis book, the augmented reality device here is part of a secret government conspiracy. Thomas Woodwind, former spy, is called back in to recover the stolen device which, it turns out, allows the user to literally see others' thoughts. The gimmick is that the thoughts are printed in invisible ultraviolet ink, and the book comes with a little black light flashlight to reveal them. The story itself isn't groundbreaking, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and loved "discovering" the thought balloons with my little flashlight. My only quibble is that I wish the light had been a bit stronger so I didn't have to hold it so close to the pages. (With a sample size of one, I unfortunately have no way of knowing whether that's typical or if I just got one with a weak battery.) The first printing of SVK sold out fast, but a second printing is available at getsvk.com. The book isn't cheap, because of the gimmick and because it has to be shipped from the UK, so I can't recommend it on a value basis but if you like the innovative idea and can afford to support it I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Vision Machine: Writer Grek Pak's ("Incredible Hulks") take on this in his Vision Machine graphic novel is more global and science-fiction-y. From the back cover:

In the year 2061, Sprout Computers releases the iEye, a pair of glasses that allow you to effortlessly record, edit and add special effects to everything you see -- and instantly share it with the world.

Pak's main characters are three film students, who each have different takes on the technology and use it for different purposes with varying degrees of success, and Liz Evers, CEO of the corporation that invented the iEye. In the first third of the book, the potential of the technology is explored, and then Pak brings in various factions of big business & government who have their own ideas about how the technology should be used.

Even though I thought the story got a little confusing figuring out what all the different groups wanted towards the end, this is really well thought out and thought-provoking stuff that rewards multiple readings.

The art is by R.B. Silva, who's now drawing Superboy for DC. I didn't recognize his name when I wrote about Superboy #1, and I'm embarrassed that I also forgot that he worked on the "Jimmy Olsen" special that I liked so much recently. He captures both the fantastic and the mundane aspects of the story equally well, and a lot of times scenes are easier to understand because each of his characters has a distinct look.

Produced under a grant from the Ford Foundation, Vision Machine is available digitally for free at visionmachine.net. If you want a hard copy, Grek Pak shipped some trades to retailers over the summer so your local store may have it. If not, he sometimes gives away signed trades at his official website in exchange for a charitable donation and he presumably will have copies at conventions for as long as they last.

DC NEW 52: ALL STAR WESTERN #1

2011-09-29T20:01:00.001-04:00

ALL STAR WESTERN #1 (DC, September 28, 2011 release) Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray, Writers. Moritat, Artist and Cover. Gabriel Bautista, Colorist. Rob Leigh, Letterer.

The writers of one of the longest running western comics in modern history (Jonah Hex) bring the same character over to the NEW 52 DC and never miss a step. I haven’t been a regular reader of JONAH HEX but this appears to be more of the same great content and style as Palmiotti and Gray keep the momentum going without pause. If you’ve been a reader of JONAH HEX (pre-NEW 52), you’ll want to continue with this new series. If you aren’t familiar with the character, this is the best time to jump on as the storyline provides numerous examples of what makes up the character/personality of Jonah Hex.

ALL STAR WESTERN #1 is one of the best written NEW 52 debuts that I have enjoyed so far. Imagine you are a comics writer and consider the scope of the task in front of you: Start over again with an established character, make it simple enough for a brand new reader to grasp the concept and follow along, don’t bore or lose any of your existing readership either, establish a problem/conflict, include some kind of action (blood and/or sex may substitute if needed, reminding me of a comment overheard by a comics shop employee about “the new DC - - bloody-er and slutty-er”), and keep ‘em hanging at the end so they come back next month. Palmiotti and Gray make it all happen in ALL STAR WESTERN #1, and they do it in style.

Ok, it’s spoiler time - - so skip ahead to the last paragraph if you don’t want any of the story elements revealed before you can get to this book.

So, what happens in Issue #1?

Jonah Hex rides into the 1880’s version of Gotham City and meets a number of citizens whose last names will seem familiar to many of you. (They are ancestors of current DC characters who reside in Gotham). He’s come to see about collecting the bounty for uncovering the identity of the Gotham Butcher = who, like Jack the Ripper, murders prostitutes. Jonah reluctantly teams up with Doctor Amadeus Arkham, medical consultant (with a preference for psychological analysis) to the local police. As their investigation makes progress they uncover another threat that may be even more serious. It seems there is a secret organization of prominent citizens identified by their skull rings who claim to be advocates for developing the potential of Gotham City. However, their ideals also involve the “betterment of society” and their methods may not have the best interests of all citizens at heart.

What did I like about it?

1) We learn almost everything we need to know about Jonah Hex through narrative captions that relate the story as seen through the eyes of Dr. Arkham. At the same time, we learn about the character of Arkham as he frequently comments, editorializes, and tries to analyze Hex. The end result is that the story moves along at a great pace without long interruption while the reader is getting the needed background details through the captions in almost every panel. Arkham is a great new character in his own right.

2) The art team does a commendable job of visualizing Gotham as an 1800’s western-looking town growing larger through the introduction of more and more industry and all the increased traffic and pollution it brings. Shades of gray, black, brown, beige and rust red help to both establish the image of a dusty western setting as well as enhance the lightly dark mood/style of the book.

What didn’t I like about it?

While I’m happy to pay $3.99 for a quality book - - I feel that whenever DC deviates from their earlier “holding the line at $2.99” promise they throw in enough extras to make it worthwhile. The big difference here? - - - You get 27 pages of story instead of the usual 21-22 pages. Is that enough to justify the extra $1.00 per issue? (Note: In future issues, Hex will share book space with El Diablo and later a new DC character - -the Barbary Ghost).

Do I love, like, stay neutral, dislike or hate this book?

It’s a very, very strong like at this point. However, I’ve already decided to continue with this through Issue #3, along with the rest of my 11 selections . . . . uh, make that “Mike’s DC 12!”

DC NEW 52: JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #1

2011-09-28T21:42:00.001-04:00

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #1 (DC, September 28, 2011) “In The Dark – Part One: Imaginary Women”. Written by Peter Milligan. Art by Mikel Janin. Colors by Ulises Arreola. Letters by Rob Leigh. Cover by Ryan Sook.

I’m not reading every single #1 issue of the DC NEW 52, but the numbers keep growing from my original plan to follow 9 series for at least their first 3 issues. I recently added WONDER WOMAN to that list, decided I could manage without DETECTIVE COMICS after reading one issue, and now I’m about to change the game plan to “Mike’s DC 11” after finishing JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #1.

This is definitely the most twisted title in the DC NEW 52 that I’ve read so far. It’s wacky and all over the place, but in a way that endears itself to me. Writer Peter Milligan has a way with inserting random, scatter shot events into his stories that seem out of place until he connects everything together much later (as in issues later, or sometimes not at all).

In contrast to the other JUSTICE LEAGUE book, this one is closer to meeting my expectations. Most of the characters are introduced. We get some quick insights into their personalities/powers. A real conflict is established and a first attempt is made to resolve it. Those are all things I expected to see happen in JUSTICE LEAGUE #1 - - - but they didn’t. Geoff Johns and Jim Lee told a good story, not a great one, but moved at a snail’s pace compared to JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK. The amount of story contained in the first issue of JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK would take Johns/Lee four or more issues to tell if it occurred in their book. I like the faster pace. This could be a great story (I’m holding back in case it unravels and doesn’t live up to the promise in upcoming issues).

Of course, JUSTICE LEAGUE #1 has great art. Artist Mikel Janin in JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #1 is no match for Jim Lee. Few artists can match his creative abilities and detail. JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK has good art - - that gets better on repeated viewings and may end up elevating my rating of it. What at first appeared to be inconsistent art actually isn’t - - it’s variations by the ink and colors team that changes from sharp bold lines and vivid colors to thinner lines and muted colors (and less of them) depending on the scene/locale and the characters/actions taking place. It seems deliberate, but the effect may be disorienting because of the quick transitions in Milligan’s story between scenes. There are some pages here of very creative art that deserve to be lingered over and appreciated - - including the opening page with Madame Xanadu and the Tarot Cards; the double page spread of multiple versions of June Moone involved in various highway hit-and-run/accidents/fatalities; and the final image of a landfill composed of human bodies.

You guessed it. If you’ve read this far, you’ve come to the spoiler point. This is a book worthy of your attention and purchase. Stop now unless you still need to know more about this book.

So, what happens in Issue #1?

Madame Xanadu consults her Tarot cards and learns of a “time of terrible danger.” The mad and insane witch Enchantress has made a cabin hideaway from where she is (perhaps unintentionally) creating supernatural and catastrophic events across the world. The Justice League also becomes aware of this and dispatches Cyborg, Superman, and Wonder Woman. They are defeated by the magic powers of the Enchantress. Both Zatanna and Madame Xanadu work from different locations to assemble a “darker” team whose powers may be more appropriate to help combat this particular threat: Shade, The Changing Man; John Constantine, Hellblazer; and Deadman (plus Zatanna and Xanadu, of course). Not sure if June Moone (who some of the characters are familiar with) is going to be joining the team. She may be part of the problem rather than part of the solution.

What else did I like? (that I didn’t mention above)

1) The quick character introductions that give succinct insights: a lonely Shade who creates/imagines a female companion; a confident Zatanna insulted by Batman’s insinuation that she can’t handle the problem without his help - - rather than argue, she conjures thick vines to bind his feet so he can’t interfere; self-centered nature of John Constantine; a very sullen and quiet Deadman who doesn’t appear much in this issue but we see just enough to learn he’s shacking up with another super-team member

What didn’t I like?

1) This is more of a concern: I’m used to seeing Shade and Constantine in Vertigo titles where more complex and adult-themed storylines occur than in standard DC books. Is this an attempt to bring them into the DC universe on a more permanent basis? If so, is it going to change and adjust these characters to make them fit in better - - perhaps muting or diminishing their mature story and character potential?

Do I love, like, stay neutral, dislike, or hate this book?

I like this very much. I’m not ready to call it love just yet. I want to see where Milligan takes this story line in the next few issues.

PREVIEWS: What’s new for Wednesday, September 28, 2011?

2011-09-27T22:30:00.001-04:00

I didn’t get to read any advance previews this week - - so instead of the usual review I’m just going to list the books that come out tomorrow that I consider worthy of further investigation . . . . . . . . . . . .

DC: Aquaman #1; Batman And Robin #1; Batman: The Dark Knight #1; Batman: The Widening Gyre TPB.

MARVEL: Deadpool Max #12 of 12; Fear Itself #6 of 7; Iron Man 2.0 #9

DYNAMITE: Game Of Thrones #1

IDW: Ghostbusters Ongoing #1

BOOM!: Hellraiser #5

LEGENDARY: Frank Miller’s Holy Terror hardcover

ONI: The Sixth Gun #15

Comics On TV: CASTLE (ABC) September 26, 2011

2011-09-27T22:06:00.001-04:00

Yesterday’s Season Four premiere episode was titled “Heroes And Villains”.

This popular detective show featuring a partnership between a sexy homicide detective and a crime fiction novelist focuses on comics, and does it in a respectful manner rather than the usual smug approach.

There are many nods to Marvel characters and references that are accurate as well as some spot-on scenes occurring in a fictional New York City comics store.

The storyline revolves around a costumed vigilante suspected of murder and the ensuing investigation.

If you missed it I believe you can watch the episode at HULU TV’s website.

They Said It Better: Priest on Marketing

2011-09-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

Joe Bennett breathes new life into the would-be Panther, Kasper Cole as The White Tiger in "The Crew".

I couldn't be happier to see comics writer/editor Christopher Priest blogging again at his new web site. His old site at digital-priest.com is full of behind-the-scenes observations about the comic business and his time on Black Panther, Spider-Man, Justice League Task Force, and more. His recent post at the new blog about his short-lived Marvel series "The Crew", while not specifically about marketing comics to women, I think contains some lessons that apply to last week's Starfire and Catwoman controversies:

...in twelve years behind desks at Marvel and DC, what I saw from the sales force were white guys talking to white guys about selling to white guys. They were woefully inept at connecting to women or minorities, and, to my knowledge, have never developed strong relationships in black or Latino markets.

Priest's blog entry about The Crew is here, and there's a great new look back at his Black Panther series here. (And his old blog is full of Panther stuff too.)

DC NEW 52: FRANKENSTEIN - - before and after

2011-09-26T23:36:00.001-04:00

FLASHPOINT: FRANKENSTEIN AND THE CREATURES OF THE UNKNOWN #1 – 3 (DC) Jeff Lemire, writer. Art by Ibraim Roberson (Issue #1 + page 1-11 of Issue #2), Alex Massacci (page 12-20 of Issue #2) and Andy Smith (Issue #3).

NOTE: This article starts out with my expression of displeasure on a certain issue. If you would rather just read the review of these books, skip ahead to the sixth paragraph after the cover images . . . . . .

If I understood the early press releases for FLASHPOINT correctly, it was intended to be the bridge between the old DC and the NEW 52 DC and give readers an early preview of what’s coming. Perhaps I and other readers may have interpreted that news incorrectly. I approached the events of some of the FLASHPOINT titles as if I was reading a prelude to THE NEW 52 and it got me excited for the bold changes I envisioned for the new series. - - - Aquaman and Wonder Woman as world conquerors intent on making human civilization subservient to them! - - - An alternate and much older Batman with a somewhat different agenda and more brutal methods of operation! Some of the publicity helped to fuel my intensity as well as keep me hanging onto those false hopes. A good example is the article about FLASHPOINT that www.digitalspy.com ran on July 7th, even referring to a USA TODAY interview:

“Flashpoint #3 has begun to hint at the genesis of DC Comics' 52 new ongoing titles.
The publisher's line-wide September relaunch is due to spin out of the pages of the current event.
Flashpoint editor Eddie Berganza told USA Today that it should start to become clear how some of the new titles will emerge from the storyline.
"They're starting to figure out where these 52 are coming from, and it's staring them right in the face with Flashpoint," he said.
"A lot of the concepts, a lot of the ideas, they're cropping up within the pages. You have a book called Frankenstein in the Flashpoint world, and guess what, we're doing Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E. You'll see a couple of other background players start showing up that become more important as we go into September."

The hard reality is that FLASHPOINT is/was nothing more than an extended series of “ELSEWORLD” mini-plays. (This opinion is based on my limited exposure to FLASHPOINT - - just like THE NEW 52, I sampled the FLASHPOINT titles rather than read every book. If the entire body of work turns out to disprove my comments, I would welcome someone entering a counter-opinion here.) Now, as far as I know DC never actually claimed anything else other than a transition point or interlude between old and new versions of their characters. But the articles, interviews, and advance publicity sure implied a more direct connection - - at least it appeared that way to me from what I was reading. That is deception - - a marketing method that I do not care for. I would rather accept some exaggerated marketing claims than be deceived by advertising that pretends there is more inside. . . . . . . . . .

Okay, I just needed to get that off my chest. It’s one of my personal “hot buttons” for things I dislike. Plus, I’m still going to read more of these DC titles. (It’s not like they are the first comic company to use some deceptive marketing. I’ll just stop now rather than name any more.)

Also, there is a lot more similarity between FLASHPOINT Frankenstein and THE NEW 52 Frankenstein than there is between the FLASHPOINT versions of Aquaman, Batman, and Wonder Woman and their NEW 52 beginnings. Unfortunately, I think I prefer the FLASHPOINT: FRANKENSTEIN & THE CREATURES OF THE UNKNOWN to the NEW 52 version.

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So, what happens in the FLASHPOINT: FRANKENSTEIN mini-series?

In an opening sequence that will remind some readers of the 1960’s thaw-out and revival of Captain America but is actually more in keeping with the actual events that occur in author Mary Shelley’s FRANKENSTEIN (subtitled THE MODERN PROMETHEUS) - - - U.S. soldiers in the frozen North Atlantic of World War II 1942 stumble across the now unfrozen form of the Frankenstein monster, who immediately takes their side against the Nazis and saves them from a deadly ambush.

The monster (who I’ll refer to as Frankenstein from this point forward) is recruited and joins Project M (for Monster) , the Army’s plan to create super soldiers that also evoke deep-seated fears in their adversaries. Other members include a Mer-woman (resembling the classic Universal movie icon Creature From The Black Lagoon), a Death’s Head vampire with bat wings, and a were-wolf. They join forces with a commando group led by Lt. Shrieve who then invade Hitler’s bunker and end his evil empire.

An ungrateful Army then shuts down Project M and puts the members in a type of suspended animation – just in case they are ever needed again. An unexplained disruption sixty-five year later revives Frankenstein and he ventures out with the other members to explore the modern world. The Army soon discovers their disappearance and dispatches a fabled monster hunter who turns out to be the grand-daughter of Lt. Shrieve. She reluctantly accepts the help of the Army’s robotic soldier. During the pursuit the Project M members meet up with Frankenstein’s wife (now working for S.H.A.D.E). No, it’s nothing like Elsa Lanchester in a fright-Afro (from Universal’s THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN) but more like a character from JOHN CARTER OF MARS - - a green-skinned four-armed pistol-toting mama.

In the process of flight and exploration the history of the project and some of its members is revealed. The monsters of Project M display more human heart and nobility than the Army that relentlessly pursues them, now with giant sized soldier robots. Project M prevails, but not without casualties and departures, and the series ends with Frankenstein, his wife, and newly reformed monster hunter Shrieve riding off into the sunset.

What did I like about it?

1) Frankenstein, as interpreted by Jeff Lemire, is a moralizing, philosophizing good Samaritan with a nose for evil and an innate distrust and dislike of it. Many of his short comments are like mini-sermons on how to lead a decent life. He can also be judgmental. It’s a more serious tone similar to his depiction in the original novel (it’s been many decades since I’ve read it).

2) The other monstrous characters are also fleshed out and developed during the course of the mini-series and bear empathy if not sympathy. I especially like Nina, and the secondary storyline of her discovery of her actual origins versus the manufactured (and equally dismaying) version.

3) This book has a somewhat dark aspect to it (but not pitch black, just lots of dark gray) - - and artist Ibraim Roberson really helps depict that atmosphere. I missed his little touches while reading the last issue-and-a-half of the series.

What didn’t I like? No explanation yet of Frankenstein’s marriage. And, he never refers to her by name - - just “wife”. She calls him “Frank “ or “Frankie”. Other characters address her as “ma’am”. Can’t anybody give her a name? Annoying!

Love it, Like it, Neutral, Dislike it, Hate it? Love it. It has heart.

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FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #1 (DC) Jeff Lemire, writer. Alberto Ponticelli, artist.

Same writer. Same main character. Different style and tone, more light-hearted in nature and slightly humorous where the former series was more serious and darker. New artist, with an equally pleasing style (and quite different from Roberson).

So, what happens in Issue #1?

This opens with a quiet, pastoral scene that could have been a page taken from Lemire’s epic ESSEX COUNTY TRILOGY - - an elderly man and dog fishing with his grandson at a small lake. Turn the page and watch it get bloody as the monsters show up shortly afterward. An invasive swarm of giant monsters decimates a small Washington State town and threatens the few surviving residents.

S.H.A.D.E. (Super Human Advanced Defense Executive) is asked to form a rescue mission, led by agent Frankenstein, returning characters Dr Nina Mazursky (amphibian), Warren Griffith (were-wolf), Vincent Velcoro (vampire) and newcomer medical officer Khalis (mummy). Frankenstein has extra motivation in that his wife (still no name) was part of the first aborted rescue mission, now missing.

The members of S.H.A.D.E. fight their way through wave after wave of monsters and make their way to a stronghold where the remaining residents are hiding – only to find out they are all children (plus a church lady who resembles a wacky Aunt May).

What did I like about it?

1) The cool inventive headquarters of S.H.A.D.E. - - a vast complex much larger than the S.H.I.E.L.D. heli-carrier that inhabits a 3-inch globe that floats around, made possible by “a hybrid of teleportation and shrink technology.” In a nice aside to the DC universe , this “ant farm” was designed by scientist Ray Palmer (Atom). I can imagine some good future storylines that occur when the teleportation and/or shrink tech start to malfunction.

2) The Frankenstein character remains the moralizing, sermonizing humanitarian of the FLASHPOINT: FRANKENSTEIN mini-series and also maintains his distrust and dislike of technology.

3) The art style has nice touches, and reminds me of the better art seen in the Marvel monster books that preceded their super-hero titles back in the early 1960’s. A little Kirby, a little Ditko, a little Walt Simonson, a little hybrid of influences - - nice blend of styles.

What didn’t I like?

1) New character Father Time, whose exact role has yet to be fully defined. He/she’s apparently in charge of S.H.A.D.E. and needs to generate a new body every so often. This particular time it’s a pig-tailed little girl with a raccoon mask. Talks like a know-it-all scientist, with body language and expressions you would expect from a little girl. This character annoys me. Brainy kids don’t always work. I would have thought Lemire could pull this off - - but I have no warmth for this character.

2) Please, just name the wife of Frankenstein, will you?

What’s my general rating/feeling for this book?

My reservations aren’t enough to off-set what I like about this. I like this book. I think most readers would have fun with it. I’m interested to see where Lemire takes it from here. Although, if I could only read one of his DC books - - it would be ANIMAL MAN, no contest.