The Latest in Comic Book News

Here we go, FrankenCastle.  Is there any way this will work?  The Punisher was sliced and diced by Daken in Dark Reign: The List - Punisher.  I really wasn't sure what to think when I first heard about this.  Let's have a look and see if it's any good.
 
 
  
I have to admit, I liked this.  I'm not completely sold.  I will be back for issue #12 to see where this will go.  Perhaps it's because the Punisher isn't at the top of my list of favorites, I'm okay with this...for now.  I want to see how thought out this is.  How far can they go with this?  How can they ever change FrankenCastle back to plain old Frank Castle?
 
Rick Remender does a good job here setting things up.  I'm hoping we won't just have Frank hanging out on Monster Island.  From what I've seen for the upcoming issues, it doesn't look like that will be the case.  I'm really digging Tony Moore's art the more I see it (check out this week's Victorian Undead from Wildstorm).  I'm curious what others will think.  I'm really curious what the die-hard Punisher fans will have to say.
 
The bigger question could be what will Norman Osborn, Daken and the rest of the Marvel Universe think?

On November 10, 2009, Warner Home Video released Justice League: The Complete Series.  What can I say about this series that you don't already know.  Not only does this contain all 52 episodes from Justice League, it also contains all 39 episodes from Justice League Unlimited.  That's a total of ninety-one episodes on fourteen discs.

In this action-packed adventure series, the world's greatest superheroes, including Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Hawkgirl and Martian Manhunter, join forces as the Justice League to battle powerful villains, supernatural creatures and evil entities determined to take over the world and destroy the League.

I've spent the past week re-watching all the episodes.  I realized that there were a couple I had missed.  Seeing them again, you realize just how great this show was.  This set is exactly what any comic book fan would want.  We're talking 2062 minutes of Justice League action.  The final three episodes of Justice League really shined.  My favorite part was when the League went to Wayne Manor for the first time.

While I enjoyed the first Justice League series, I think it really took off with Unlimited.  They set out to create a real world full of characters and they succeeded.  The option of having an 'unlimited' cast to choose from for each mission just makes sense.  It gave us the opportunity to see other parts of the DC Animated Universe.  The biggest (and only) problem with this show is that it ended.

The set has a nice presentation.  The two series are contained in separate plastic cases which both fit in a nice metal case.  A bonus fifteenth disc contains a special: Unlimited Reserve: A League For The Ages (16:48).  

James Tucker says it best, "We didn't go in thinking we were going to make the best superhero show ever but toward the end we realized 'hmm...we may have made the best superhero show ever.'"
 
     

The special has some nice insight from the creators.  You really get the sense that they are proud of these shows as they rightfully should be.  The extra disc also has some trailers: Ben 10 Alien Force, Lord Of The Rings Animated Film, Star Wars: The Clone Wars (two trailers), Batman: The Brave And The Bold, Barkugan.

There is the question for those that already own the separate seasons on DVD.  Aside from the fifteenth disc and the packaging, there isn't really anything different from those.  If you don't own the separate seasons or don't own them all, this is a must-buy.  I was missing some of the seasons so I just gave my old ones to my brother.  I'd imagine this would also make a great gift.  If you don't own it, try planting some seeds among your loved ones in the hope of getting it.

What rating would I give this set?  While I would love to have this set on Blu-ray, the only rating really possible, a 5 out of 5.  It was a great couple of series and it's unfortunate we can't get more.  I could go on and on about how much I enjoyed this show but if you've seen any of the episodes, you already know what I would say.  You can buy it HERE for just over sixty bucks.  Not a bad price for all the hours of entertainment you get. 

Dark Avengers #11, The Authority #3, and Batman Unseen #4 Reviewed!

 

Dark Avengers #11

Written by: Brian Michael Bendis
Art by: Mike Deodato and Greg Horn
 
I should start off by saying that this issue is really well structured. The fact that the story opens up by referencing Victoria Hand's position as a S.H.I.E.L.D. accountant three years ago is a perfect set up. By starting the issue this way, Bendis allows for two ongoing story lines to occur simultaneously that cross over into one another, but still manage to remain separate, and do not confuse the reader. Victoria Hand is presented as this very weak female character in the beginning of the story, and you can see the way she has evolved and been strengthened as a character over the course of the last three years. This issue is as much about Norman Osborn's assistant as it is about Norman himself. In this issue, Norman is tested by the Molecule Man, who can easily destroy Norman if he wished to, but doesn't. The plot reaches a climax in the beginning of the book, and then reverts, before ending on a high note once again. 

"The only thing I don't understand is...How long did you think you were going to have this job, anyhow? Everybody wants you to fail. Even the people who are rooting for you-- secretly they know what you are and they know what's going to happen to you...They're just waiting! When will he snap? Well, for my purposes, I can't wait. The sooner the better. And if I can help it along...all the better."

Bendis writes a perfectly despicable and resentful Molecule Man, which is perfectly captured in his character narration. Probably the most powerful scene in the entire comic is the interaction between Norman and the Molecule Man, who seems ready and willing to aid Norman in his own psychological destruction. This interaction reinforces the idea that Norman is self destructive, and that in the end, he very well may be his own enemy. His psychological instability seems to be what will more than likely result in his own demise.
 
Scenes which Molecule Man clearly has the upper hand and has invaded Norman's mind are drawn by Greg Horn, while all other scenes are drawn by Mike Deodato, who has been the artist on the book throughout the entire series. The decision to bring on another artist with a completely different style for these specific scenes acts to further reinforce the shift in the story which makes for an interesting dynamic. Perhaps the reason I enjoyed this book so much is due to the Molecule Man's prominent role in the story, specifically because he seems like such an unlikely adversary. A fantastic issue overall, my only complaint is that the interaction that Molecule Man has with the rest of the Avengers (Sentry, Ms. Marvel, Daken...) seems rushed and could have been extended. 
 
4 out of 5 

 

Batman Unseen #4 of 5

Written by Doug Moench
Art by: Kelley Jones
 
Of all the Batman books out in the market now, this is definitely one of my favorites. Written specifically for fans of the Bruce Wayne Batman- sans the side-kick, this book returns the character to his detective roots and reads like an edge of your seat mystery thriller that has over the years, been what has made Batman so intriguing to so many fans. Everything from the style of the writing to the art aid in bringing the reader back to a dark and dreary bronze age Batman, which is exactly what makes this such an interesting read. Kelley Jones' abstract and dark artistic style likens to that of Frank Miller's artistry in ' The Dark Knight Returns.' The way that the narration acts as an internal monologue intertwines perfectly with the character dialogue. The story is organized effectively into chapters which distinguish the transition from one scene to the next similar to a novel. Perhaps it is the way the book is structured, or the fact that it is so well written and organized, but this book blew me away. Mind you, Bruce Wayne is also my favorite comic book character so I tend to be a bit biased...then again if I think that he is characterized well in this book, then chances most Batman fans will agree. 
Note that this title is out of the continuity of the other bat-books. I recommend picking up the three previous issues before tackling this one so that you can get the most out of this story. 
 
4 out of 5 

 

The Authority: The Lost Year #3

Story by: Grant Morrison and Keith Giffen
Written by: Keith Giffen
Art by: Darick Robertson and Trevor Scott
 
There are few artists that can capture the fluidity of movement and still maintain a gritty style; Darick Robertson however does exactly that. The first four pages exemplify his personal artistic style to perfection. If you have not and are not planning on picking up the two previous issues of The Authority, then there is really no sense in getting this one because you may not grasp what is going on. The content is somewhat graphic and the art is suggestive in some scenes, but entertaining, nonetheless. The book maintains an interesting plot and story and is very well structured, but without an understanding of these individual characters it is near impossible to read. One thing is certain, these guys are a hell of a lot more interesting than the Justice League. The script is well organized which is evident in the artistry of the first four pages. I personally love a good fight scene without dialogue; it is a great example of the artist's talent. While it was a fun read, I did have some trouble being engaged throughout the entire story and it felt no different (to me) than reading any other super hero book.
 
3 out of 5

I don't know a lot about Doc Savage besides some of the basic facts.  There has been something about him that has interested me.  I always wondered what was up with this bronze guy.  While he's been in print off and on over the years, I was just never in the right place at the right time.  Now thanks to this one shot, I got the chance to see him in action, against Batman.  But what about the grumblings I've heard about Batman using a gun?  
 
 
  
I think we can agree that Batman using a gun is wrong.  As I mentioned, he did briefly use a gun a few times way back.  Those stories technically don't exist with the current Batman mythos.  While I'm a big fan of Batman and have been reading Batman comics for over two decades, I'm not going to get worked up over this.  What it comes down to is this is a comic book meant for entertainment.  It's not a "real" story in the way that it doesn't exist in Batman's continuity.  I see this as almost an Elseworlds type book.  Let's leave it at that.
 
Having this version of Batman was a blast.  We're seeing a younger, less experienced Batman that does have some cockiness.  This is a little surprising considering his lack of finesse in some areas.  Seeing him written this way fit perfectly with the story in this time period.  And while I didn't know a lot about Doc Savage, I like that he's a more experienced character than Batman and learns to respect him for the potential he has.
 
I did like the story.  It did feel like we were jumping into an ongoing story and it did seem to end a little abruptly.  The story leaves you wanting more.  I think that's a good thing except that this is supposed to be a one shot.  Somehow I missed the previous mentions of DC's First Wave.  I have to say it's a great idea and I'm looking forward to the future pairings in the upcoming titles.  What can I say about Phil Noto's art?  I think it pretty much speaks for itself.  If you're looking a slightly different take on Batman and want to see him go up against Doc Savage, check this book out.

Realm of Kings #1, The Amazing Spider-Man: The List #1, and Azrael #2 Reviewed!

 

Realm of Kings: The Stars Are Wrong #1

Written by: Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning
Art by: Leonardo Manco and Mahmud Asrar
 
Having two artists on one book may result in one of two things: aid in the storytelling by creating a dynamic that can essentially aid the writing, or if done poorly, it can make the book more difficult to read by disrupting the overall flow of the story. In the case of Realm Of Kings: The Stars Are Wrong #1, having two separate artists on the same book added a unique dynamic to the story; and a feature I found complimented the writing well. In fact, I almost wish there had been a greater distinction between the two artists. Perhaps printing the art by Leonardo Marco (pages 5-24) in shadows rather than full color would have created a greater separation between their creative styles? Conceptually, separating the art in the comic the way they did (the editors) was a good idea overall, but the execution could have been more dramatic. As far as the writing is concerned, Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning do a fantastic job with Quasar's internal monologue, although I still do not quite understand how he (realistically) knows how he can recount everything that has happened to him, but does not know who or what he is. If you are into inter-galactic space stories that cross into alternate realities of familiar Marvel characters, (Tony Stark, Hulk, Captain America) then you will enjoy this story. Personally, it was in my opinion far too much sci-fi for my taste, but to each his (or her) own.
 
3 out of 5
 

Azrael: Ghost In The Light #2

Written by: Fabian Nicieza
Art by: Ramon Bachs
 
The story opens up to a rather confusing scene, and the writer's lack of transitions makes reading the book somewhat more difficult than necessary. Believe it or not, the use of transitions like "Twelve Hours Ago" or "Now," are highly underrated. Adding a few words at the top of the page would have made reading this book (especially if you are new to it,) much easier. There is a lot that takes place in this book very quickly, and there are some scenes than easily could be omitted considering they are never addressed again throughout the story. For example, the first four pages in the beginning which open up with Huntress and Oracle are completely unnecessary. (Take them out! *shakes fist*) Other than that, Ramon Bachs does a decent enough job on the art (a lot of thick black inks), but is nothing fancy. The book was good but not overly engaging. I did absolutely adore the cover, though.
 
3 out of 5 
 

 

The Amazing Spider-Man: The List #1

Written by: Dan Slott
Art by: Adam Kubert
 
If there is anyone who can write the perfect Spider-Man, it must be Dan Slott. I can hardly believe I was on the edge of my seat for the entire issue, but I was. Perhaps it was Adam Kubert's impeccable art that complimented Slott's characterization of the web-slinger to perfection; whatever the case may be, it is a great book. Slott manages to capture the dynamic of the relationship between Peter Parker and Norman Osborn really well, creating a story that transitions effortlessly. Both the writing and the art in this book are consistent and fantastic. My only complaint is in the scene between Peter Parker and Norman Osborn where Osborn's character was dumbed down just a bit, otherwise it was a great story. Most importantly, it was a lot of fun. 
 
5 out of 5

Batgirl #4

Written by: Bryan Q. Miller
Art by: Lee Garbett
 
Perhaps it is her new suit that has been custom made for her, or maybe it has just taken four issues to do it, but it finally feels like Stephanie Brown is adjusting to being Batgirl. The story is set a week following the point which we saw her last and Miller seems to think that is enough time for clumsy Steph to suddenly be really good at fighting crime. Maybe it is just me, but I am having a difficult time believing that Stephanie could improve this much in such a short amount of time. Having said that, this is the best issue so far since the first one which I thought to be relatively good. My main problem is kind of a personal preference in that I feel less comfortable with a character like Barbara Gordon playing second fiddle to Stephanie Brown. There are some scenes where it feels as though Barbara works for Stephanie Brown rather than be her superior. I guess you can say it rubs me the wrong way. Another minor detail I came across was in Barbara's internal monologue where she infers that had it not been due in part to Dick's support after she became handicapped, she is unsure if she would have ever recovered. Correct me if I am wrong, but I don't believe Dick was around to comfort Barbara at all in her time of need, but I digress. There is an interesting interaction between Wendy Harris 
and Barbara and I am interested to see that relationship develop. 
 
3 out of 5
 

Vengeance Of The Moon Knight #3

Written by: Gregg Hurwitz
Art by: Jerome Opena
 
If you are unfamiliar with the character (like I was) then this would be a good introduction to the character. First, the writing is good, consistent and flowed well throughout, and the art in the issue is really fantastic. The first few panels in the beginning of the issue where Hood is in a cemetery conjuring up the dead has some really fantastic art work. The writing is good, but I noticed a lot of similarities between Moon Knight's character and a certain "Dark Knight," if you know what I mean. While their individual background stories may differ considerably, there are some similar characters and key concepts that are so similar to characters and concepts in the Batman universe that I often found it difficult to overlook. Not only does the Scarecrow appear in this issue (and his costume is almost identical to the Scarecrow character in the Batman universe,) but they have to throw in an Asylum, too. 
 There is a fun scene, however, in the issue where Spider-Man complains about no longer being the center of attention, which I found to be relatively humorous. If you are looking to gain an understanding of Moon Knight's character, this would be a good book (and I presume, series) to start off with. Even though there does seem to be a lot going on, Hurwitz does a great job organizing everything in the story and writing Moon Knight a fantastic internal monologue that I felt not only drew from the character's history, but also gives the reader a clear indication of Moon Knight's present mind set. Aside from the fact that I still feel that reading Moon Knight is like reading Marvel's version of Batman, it is still a great book.
 
4 out of 5

Despite all the Deadpool comics and appearances, it's surprisingly been a few weeks since I've reviewed a Deadpool comic.  I have been a fan of Deadpool since he came on the scene but even I will admit that he's simply turning up in too many places.  In a continuation of Deadpool trying to join the X-Men, let's see if this comic remains fresh and witty or if it's as dry as Deadpool's face:
 
  
Daniel Way continues to deliver Deadpool at his best.  Some of us have wondered if Deadpool could ever join the X-Men and now we finally get to see what that would be like.  Not only does Way give us Deadpool the way he should be written but he also gives us a different side of the X-Men.  As I mentioned in the video, when you're dealing with Deadpool you sort of have to lower yourself down to his level.  If Deadpool appeared in an actual X-book, we'd be seeing a different story.
 
I'm digging Paco Medina's art more and more every time I see it.  It's such a joy seeing him pencil Deadpool.  Throw in Juan Vlasco's inks and Marte Gracia's colors and it's just so easy to delve into Deadpool's adventures.  Unfortunately I can't say the same about Jason Pearson's cover.  I get that Domino and Emma were supposed to have outraged looks on their faces over seeing Deadpool in his X-uniform but it just really felt 'off' to me.
 
What it comes down to is I really enjoyed this comic.  When you pick up a Deadpool comic, you're expecting a crazy and funny adventure.  That's what you get here.  This issue may not compare to other comics that I've given the same rating to but it's simply in another category.  The idea of Deadpool killing for the X-Men was great.  Also the fact that Deadpool somehow confused the X-Men with Ice-T was priceless.  And let's not forget that we get to discover Domino's biggest fear.

What are your thoughts on the Thunderbolts.  I've always been fascinated by the concept.  They were the Dark Avengers before the Dark Avengers were formed.  What made them different is they actually started becoming heroes.  They ended up wanting to fight the good fight.  The other importance of the Thunderbolts is with Norman leading them during Secret Invasion, that position is what gave him access to 'winning' the Skrull war.  Currently there seems to be a divide among the team.  How long can this team survive?
 
  
The hardest part for me with this current team is the fact that I don't really care or like these guys.  When the current Ant-Man is my favorite member of a team, that's not a good sign.  I will admit I'm curious about Scourge.  Paladin has had some interesting moments in the past.  As for Ghost, Headsman and Mister X, I'm not too interested.  Although I guess I do want to see what Ghost's overall plan is.  
 
Jeff Parker does a great job jumping in and taking over the writing duties.  As I mentioned, if you read issue #137 and then 138 right away, you don't really feel a difference.  I can't put the blame on him over the fact that I'm not interested in some members of the team.  He does show some signs of delving into Scourge's character.  Miguel Sepulveda's art and Frank Martin's colors fit nicely.  In my opinion, it's not always easy drawing a battle scene in the jungle.  Often the art and color are too much and it comes across as too cartoony.  The battle is pretty sweet here.
 
The way I'm looking at this team is anyone is 'killable.'  Besides Ant-Man, I'd be okay with any of them getting killed if it was done well and made a good story.  I'm not usually a fan of killing for killing's sake.  In issue #139 we will see the beginning of the Thunderbolts vs the Agents of Atlas.  I'm sure people will dig that.  While I did like this issue, a small part of it just felt like a set up for the Agents of Atlas story.  Either way, it's worth getting.

Strange #1, SUPERGOD #1, The Unwritten #7 and Red Robin #6 Reviewed!

 

Strange: 'A Whole New Ballgame' #1 of 4

Written by: Mark Waid
Art by: Emma Rios
Colors by: Christina Strain
 
It must be pretty humiliating to go from being the most powerful man in the mystical universe and holding the title of "Sorcerer Supreme," to barely being able to conjure up some hocus pocus in your pinkie finger to save yourself from a sticky situation! At least you still recall your incantations, right Doctor? Mark Waid pens this book and does a fantastic job dealing a still recovering Stephen Strange who still happens to be suffering from being a bit too arrogant for his own good. Nothing like the old "Sorcerer Supreme" we knew from before, this new Doctor Strange will be taking on the role of mentor and hanging up the cape; at least for a little while. 

"I'd forgotten how terrific it felt to simply relax and not have to feel responsible for every little thing that goes wonky in the-"

There is a lot of great dialogue in this book. Waid does a phenomenal job with the characterization of Doctor Stephen Strange who is still coming to terms with the fact that he has been embarrassingly demoted. The interaction between he and ' Tul'uth,' the evil demon who has possessed the baseball team is fantastic. The story seems to be setting up Casey to be Strange's protege, particularly considering her grandfather's death so early on; a scene which felt a bit rushed even after being "dealt with" towards the end.  The art work is impeccable, and the colors are brilliantly vibrant; managing to capture emotion, expression and plot progression perfectly. While I did personally find Casey's character to be somewhat obnoxious, I am willing to overlook it because Stephen and Tul'uth were so perfectly captured. 
 
4 out of 5 

 

SUPERGOD #1

Written by: Warren Ellis
Art by: Garrie Gastonny
 
I really have few words for this book aside from "wow." I almost feel intimidated having to review it, not a surprise since it is after all written by Warren Ellis. I will start off by saying first that I do not recommend the book for the immature or casual comic reader (being that it deals with some very adult issues,) not solely because I feel there should be an age discrepancy with this book, but because I feel that younger readers would not appreciate the sheer depth and beauty of the plot. If you are a fan of sci-fi and you happen to be the least bit politically aware, I really recommend this book. In short, Warren Ellis has developed a masterpiece with the first issue of SUPERGOD, dealing with thought provoking and intricate concepts, he has managed to intertwine religious, political, and social issues with elements of science fiction perfectly. A task which, I imagine, is not exactly easy to accomplish. It is an original story that deals with the idea that man is inherently prone to look to religious deities to save them from the mistakes they have forced upon themselves.  Based on the plot thus far, I would imagine that it is a post apocalyptic tale told through the eyes of Simon Reddin, who appears to have witnessed the self inflicted death and destruction of humanity and civilization. While the first issue did read like an issue #0 in that it gave a lot of background information, I would imagine that it is vital to the reader's understanding of the progression of the story. The art is unbelievable. Detailed, intricate, dark, gritty and jaw dropping. The fact that I read this issue three times (and discovered something new every time) should be an indication of how good it is.
 
5 out of 5 

 

The Unwritten #7

Written by: Mike Carey
Art by: Peter Gross 
 
While the story may be difficult to understand at first if you are new to it, it can be very easy to become quickly engrossed in the tale. I feel as though I almost can not do the book justice in a review being that I picked it up so late in the game, but I digress. I found myself wondering whether I should finish the issue, or wait to pick up the previous six comics as not to spoil anything for myself. Carey writes a truly captivating story centered around some mystical and fictional characters which certainly leave you wanting more.

"I understand your dilemma. It is frightening to think of the world as having no firm foundations. Frightening to meet one's maker...You. And Myself. We have that in common. We are creatures. Made things. And those who made us do not Love us."

Carey writes a thought provoking and intellectual "Frankenstein" character, but moves swiftly from that scene to another in the very beginning leaving it hard to follow. The language, however, is gorgeous. Carey does a great job capturing the dialogue of the characters in the story. The dialogue reads smoothly as though he put a lot of effort into it; so much so that the characters read the way they speak without any breaks. The language of the story flows effortlessly. While this does seem to be one comic that I would recommend for more mature readers in that it deals with violence, language, as well as clever and risque inuendos; I do highly recommend the title. The writing is fresh and invigorating, and readers that enjoy other Vertigo titles ( Fables) will enjoy this one. 
 
4 out of 5
 

Red Robin: 'The Council of Spiders' #6

Written by: Chris Yost
Art by: Marcus To
 
Being that I had dropped the series around issue four, I decided to give it another go. While the organization and flow of the story seem to have improved with this issue; I felt that I disagreed with the interpretation of some vital elements in the story and erego found myself slightly disappointed. To me, Ra's al Ghul's ' League of Assassins' is supposed to be the most threatening and intimidating evil international organization in the bat-verse, period. Yost writes them to be somewhat non-threatening. This bothers me. While the book does draw on the importance of the 'League of Assassins,' it seems to dilute their capacity as a morally threatening organization. For years, Ra's' "assassins" have been more than just a group of hired guns and hit men. They have represented moral change (based on Ra's al Ghul's moral code). That characteristic does not exist in this series. Yost's "League" seems to exist as a group of hired assassins that waste their time on adulterous Hungarian wives as opposed to being the extended arm of Ra's whose purpose is to change the world by any means necessary. As a result of not having some unanimous consensus on moral code, the assassins read like mindless characters that exist solely to do Ra's' bidding. Tim Drake is always the most intelligent person in the room, but is not always written intelligently, leaving all the supporting characters a little bit dumber. 
 
3 out of 5

Because there are so many comics that come out each week, we're all faced with the dilemma of what to pick up.  It's our goal to randomly pick seven comics on top of our other reviews to keep you as informed as possible.  This isn't meant as a full blown review but just a quick look in addition to our in depth looks.  Cheers!