Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Star Wars and Peanuts!
And just when you thought that agent Jahan Cross had a bit of morality to him, you are given a stark reminder that he is an agent of the empire first and foremost.
This new series continues the adventures of Agent Cross from the previous AOTE series, and it gives you a bit of an idea as to where this would be placed on The Star Wars timeline. That should readily be apparent in the first few pages of the issue.
Some of the things that this series has going for it is of course the art, which is very clear, detailed and dynamic. He does pretty good choreography on his fight scenes. Also, you've got John Ostrander writing for you. So that's a bonus in and of itself. He does a good job of establishing the characters very quickly, then dives right ahead into the action. Also, at least for now, it seems that you do not need to have read the previous mini in order to fully understand the story. One last thing, you get a lot of guest stars/cameos in this issue and when has that not been fun?
Probably my one minor quibble with this is the choice of naming one of the characters, Count Dooku. I admit that was very confusing at first. I mean, there are soooo many names to choose from and we had to use one that might confuse potential new readers...especially young readers who might get wind of this via the successful clone wars tv show.
All in all, a good book, and a good first installment. If you want something a little bit different to complement your Star Wars collection, then this is the place to be.
Peanuts #3
The triumphant and much beloved series from Schultz finds its way in Kaboom! And the writers who participated in this project to carry on the legacy, did not disappoint.
All the shorts involved in this collection by other writers, captures the spirit and the tone of the Peanuts stories of times past. No only that, but the art too. In fact, everyone involved here did a good job and all should be proud.
The only thing I didn't like with this is that it was a little short. It read very quickly for a comic having twenty eight pages. I wish more content was piled in. Specially with the price point of $3.99. Actually, having mentioned the price, this was supposed to be marketed more for kids...and I find that the price is a little too expensive for that. I wish more thought was given regarding this.
All in all though, still a good buy. If you have collected Schultz memorabilia through the years, then this one would fit right in...,
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Darth Maul, The Goon, Angel and Faith plus More!
So far, I feel this issue has redeemed the title. Finally, there's an endgame in sight. An actual plan to bring back Giles as I have been wondering how Angel would do just about that the past few issues. Also, the re-emergence of Willow has been nothing short of amazing. I really hope that she would stick around or that we would see her again soon.
The only actual problem that I've had with this issue is that Faith has been mostly held in the background. I guess, with the way that the storyline drove itself, it can't be helped, but seeing how this issue ended, I'm betting that that would be remedied soon.
Cool issue. It actually gives you a "Dante's inferno" feel. Plus the story is not boring, nor is it all over the place. Willow and Angel fans in particular would love this story for its strong character development regarding those characters, and lastly, the art is impressive, clear and enjoyable to see. I would give this comic an 8/10 rating because it's really fun.
The Goon #42
This is my first time reading this book. I have mostly avoided Eric Powell because I believe he had become the face of what I mostly think are unfair criticisms when it comes to the big two. But still, I have been hearing rave reviews for this book and I decided to give it a shot. The result?
I actually enjoyed it. I was so prepared to hate it, given my personal feelings but that's not practicing what I'm preaching. Given this reviewers first exposure to the material, I actually found myself laughing out loud at some of the comedic scenarios that Powell and team brought to the Issue. The Goon is more of a joke/satire book that's how I see it. It doesn't take itself too seriously so I guess that's where the fun starts. And the art....oh, the art. IT'S JUST BEAUTIFUL I like the style that the art team uses here (the black and white back up story is good enough) but if all works in unison, with colors, the results are just spectacular. So hats off to Powell and co for a strangely entertaining book. I would probably stick with the big two for the most part, but The Goon has definitely earned my respect. Kudos.
Idolized #2
This issue has got to be my favorite from my review stack this week. I know the story is cliché and had probably been tackled so many times in comics, but still, it brings about a certain freshness to the material.
I like the protagonist and her internal struggles. Somehow, she was written in a way that that does not seem forced. The character development has a very nice pacing. Also, the supporting characters are interesting. I would really love to see more of them in upcoming issues.
The art is fantastic too! I have never heard of this writer and artist team before, but I think their work has so much potential.
Finally, I would just like to mention how impressed I am with Humberto Ramos's cover. It really grabbed my attention when I saw it. Also, I'm not sure who came up with the characters costume design, but it's simplicity is, ironically, very striking. I love it. All in all, a very good issue. Well drawn, well paced, well written. A commentary about Hollywood and today's tv industry that you will appreciate. A good buy.
Soul fire vol 4, #2
I would have to say that this book is pretty average is my eyes. While the story is decent enough, I feel the art is a little inconsistent from time to time. There are times when it's very detailed and nice to look at, and there are times that it's a bit mediocre. But despite that, colorist Nei Rufino brings her A-game into this book with her visually striking colors to save the day.
The story is a little textbook, "we have to save one of our own who was possessed by an evil entity". I think I've seen that a couple hundred times already, nothing really unique about this separating it from the phalanx of similar stories. Also, I'm not sure who came up with the character designs as this is my first time reading this title, but I'm not really that much of a fan of it. I mean, just how many team members can you have with metal hands? I don't know, I just feel that they could've done better in that department. Nothing really to write home about, not so bad either. Just average. And I think, I believe, that that, is this books ultimate failing.
Steed and Mrs Peel #1
Wow. Did I ever NOT see that coming. I am surprised at the creative liberties that this team has taken for this comic. Well, maybe not, seeing that the man who came up with the story, is a certain Mr Waid....you know if his name is attached to a project, it's quality is unquestioned.
Bravo. This comic is bold, very fast paced and very direct to the point. It was done very well both with the scripting and with the art. Oh boy, the art!
It is very beautifully rendered! One of the strengths of this series ( counting the previous one that came before this) is that the artists are very good. I must credit the editor for managing to assemble a dream team composed of veteran writers (Morisson and Waid) and up and coming artists that are very talented.
The story reads very quick but you wouldn't feel cheated out of your dollars if you were to buy this. If I were in charge, I would've named this comic: "Steed and Mrs Peel: Armageddon". That would give you a clue as to what your in for. This is a great comic and more importantly, it has the number #1 attached to it.... So it's a good starting point.
Darth Maul Death Sentence #3
This book has gone off to a very good start and it has not dropped a notch ever since.
This issue, we get to see how evil Darth Maul really is. It's rare that you get a comic where the main "protagonist" has no redeeming value whatsoever.
The Jedi's tasked with bringing Maul in, gets a huge boost and we get a cameo from a more famous Force Wielder, who has a score to settle with the title character. I'm pretty sure that we'll see sparks fly in the next issue.
All in all, a fantastic comic. Dark Horse, through Star Wars, has managed to stay strong in the comic book industry with astonishing series that have come one after the other. This year in particular, has been very good, and Darth Maul: Death Sentence, is among the front runners. Do yourself a favor and read this book today. The climax in this issue is, alone, worth the price your paying for the comic!
Sent from my iPod
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Invincible, Witchblade, Darth Vader and More!
Its the climax of the story involving Robot and Monster Girl from a couple issues ago, and its building to critical mass. Hats off to the creative team! As everyone whose been reading this title knows, Robot and Monster Girl relate a tale, a flashback of the events from when they were trapped in another dimension, All this, while in the midst of staving off an alien invasion from said place. And from then on, Robots been hinting of a major betrayal done purportedly by his partner/ love interest.
In this issue the longevity of their stay gets laid out and the extent of their participation in that worlds liberation becomes fully revealed. What actually floored me was the major revelation in this issue. Boy I really wasn't counting on that. I mean, I had my ideas but it was as if I was a deer caught in a cars head lights. As if its not clear enough, This issue has major ramifications for the future of the aforementioned couple. I do hope that both of them survive this encounter.
The creative team always delivers and in this issue, we get a brief glimpse on Kirkman's politics as this reads much like his social commentary. The art as always, is kick ass. I could never imagine Invincible being done by another artist. Walker and Ottley has definitely made their careers with this book.
Next issue is not to be missed folks! Kirkman and co always bring their A- Games to this title!
Witchblade #160
The quality of this book since the relaunch has not lagged at all, if anything else, it has consistently been very good. Here, We get to see Sara utilize the Witchblade in ways that shes rarely done in the past. Its nice to see some of the Artifacts lesser used capabilities.
With that, and the way that writer and artist seem to launch Sara in action fully clothed, I'm really liking this new direction. Before I started reviewing this title on a consistent basis for this website, I knew next to nothing about The WitchBlade. I only know her as "The barely clothed lady with the cool looking Gauntlet." whenever I catch an image of her. Now, I could not get enough of the character and its all thanks to this creative team. The focus is more on story. Sure, you still get your fill of TNA but its less expressed.
And as for the story, it couldnt get any better. Sara is up against a deadly new enemy and the conclusion of this issue bodes ill for our star. It can only get more interesting beyond this point. A cute leader of a cult that follows her every whim versus a battle hardened Police officer with a mystical artifact? Whats not to like? See you next month!
Star Wars: Darth Vader and The Ghost Prison #5
From the beginning, I have raved about this title for the stellar art and the kind of unique premise where Vader and The Emperor become embroiled in a ruthless power grab/ coup from some of the rank and file. By my reckoning, this has never happened before. Vader as always, has served the role of hunter and never the prey. So that alone, should pique your curiosity.
The art, oh, what more could be said about the art? Its gorgeous! Every panel just takes your breath away. It alone is worth the price of admission.
The ending is sort of predictable as Vader would always be Vader, but none the less, its still a joy to watch. This has been a good ride from start to finish and it has been a pleasure to see it unfolding before my eyes.
Moral Lesson of this book is, you never, ever, cross Vader. Ever.
Ghost #0
Wow, Phil Noto seems to be all over the place these days. Probably one of the most prolific artist active today, sometimes, with me, he has been hit or miss as I fairly think he needs to improve on a lot of background work as he tends to focus more on faces, but for this issue, I think he did a good job.
Now storywise, it does a good job of introducing you to the characters and enveloping you in their world. Ive never read a Ghost comic before, I saw some of her comics's covers during the late 90's but that is pretty much it. So i cant really tell if this is a continuation or a reboot, but from what I saw this issue, I really liked. It continues in a four issue mini series where we would see the protagonists try to unravel the identity of the mysterious Ghost, while being chased by thugs from the organization that created the machine that brought her back to the land of the living. It promises to be a good adventure/chase comic fraught with thrills and almost assuredly, startling revelations. Dark Horse has lived up to its name. For me, it is the strongest comic company outside of the big two. Readily displacing Image. This title would make a pretty good argument as to why that is so.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: It Girl #2 and Manhatten Projects #6!
Mike Allred is the master of costume and character design I'd give him that. His creations and costumes often catch your attention and are very dynamic in scope and concept. That's pretty much what It girl is in a nutshell.
I enjoyed the book even though at the rapid pace that I was reading it, left me a little confused. And this was only the second issue. So that's my only complaint. It felt like a comic with ADHD sort of like the feeling you would get when watching an episode of the Spider-man 90s cartoon. But the story is interesting enough to merit another try at the next issue. The cover by Allred alone is worth the price of admission. I understand that for some, Allred’s art might be considered an acquired taste so you won't be disappointed as Mike Norton, probably one of the most underrated artist who is active today, fires on all cylinders. This is a very good, fun issue. Although like I noted earlier, it might take a while to get yourself acquainted with the flow of the story. But it's definitely something I would check out if you want to broaden your horizons beyond the big two. Go check it out.
Manhattan Project #6
Don't get me wrong; I really love this book and the quirkiness that it brings. It often stands out among the current litter of comics because it is deeply entrenched in a sci fi, high concept dashed with a little bit of Twilight Zone mode, but dear God, it feels like the buildup is just so slow. I guess I was just a little too weaned with today's norm of six issue arcs, and I guess I should appreciate that someone is actually reviving long overarching stories again, but sometimes, I just really want to hit the fast forward button on this book like, really let's get to some payoff soon. I guess this comic is just not for everyone but I think this project, if you'd pardon the pun, would've benefitted more were it done as a novel. It would've been a novel idea and concept and it could've been optioned as a prime candidate for a film someday. Oops I did it again, sorry.
The art and the story is good but I just really feel that they should drop an atomic bomb now just to make sure the audiences attention is still there. Okay I'm going to stop now. Buy the book, but if you’re this late in the game, id sit this one out and wait for the trade. It'll read much better that way.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Saga, Fatale, Invincible and More!
Nice concept. Zombies used as WMD's during the Vietnam war. Thing is, the execution is what bothers me. Truth to tell, I didn’t really like this issue at all. There’s just no oomph to hold my attention. The pacing, the characters and the action were all....boring. I was slogging through most of the issue. There’s none of the freakish fun that comes along when you read any zombie material. There was no sign of any dark comedy anywhere. The art, for me was the only saving grace and even that was not all that. It sort of reminded me of Scott Kolins, whom I don't really consider as one of the top tier artists. Also, it would have been better had they not chosen to stereotype Asians when it came to the dialogue. I don’t really know what the writer was
going for in that gaffe when he could have easily used the tried and tested captionized translation technique in comics. I'm sure this comic has its fans but it just didn't do it for me. Like I said, it has potential. But it could be better.
Alabaster Wolves #5
When I saw the cover, I was blown away. It was really beautiful and it had me pumped up to start reading the comic. Unfortunately, my interest dwindled considerably the further i went along with the book. For one, the dialogue was too wordy, worthy of a Claremont or a Byrne. Second, the interior art was too different from the cover and it jarred my interest significantly. I'm never really much of a fan when it comes to horror but there’s the odd thing or there that usually makes an exception and I was hoping this would be one of those times....but no. The visuals and designs were not interesting enough and from what I observed could be quite bland. The action scenes near the end was somewhat interesting but not nearly enough to keep on capturing my attention. I wanted to give Dark Horse a boost because most of their Buffy and Star Wars books are a joy to read, but so far, outside those lines, no Dark Horse book has ever truly captured my attention.
Fatale #7
I was so pumped to read this one because I've heard from word of mouth, message boards and internet hype that this was a very good comic. I know its from Brubaker, a fan favorite, perhaps that’s where all the hype actually comes from, but....I'm sorry to say, this book greatly disappointed me. My expectations were not met. It was pretty average in my eyes, storywise. Too ordinary. But the art though, was great. Its the one thing that held my attention. Perhaps a few issues more, my tone would change. But for now, I am not as invested in this series as much as the rest of the comic book population is.
Revival #2
I was surprised by this book. Its a completely new take on zombies and i'm loving it. Now this is what being creative is like. We need to see more ideas like this explored in the comic book business. I was seriously surprised at how much I enjoyed this issue. The flow of the story is seamless. Built heavily on the books premise, (which is, a huge number of dead people coming back to life)it stands on solid footing. And the characters that we have explored so far are interesting and not boring. They have personalities. The issue was evenly paced with drama, a bit of action, humor and an overall air of mystery that hangs in the air. Solid effort. Truth to tell, I would not be surprised if this book lands a movie deal somewhere down the road.
One of its greatest strengths of course, is the art. Its dynamic and engaging and doesn't distract from the story. Good start to a good book.
Saga #6
I have heaped so much praise into this book time in and time out whenever i do my reviews and i sure ain't stopping now. This issue, we encounter a bit of a downtime for our heroes (and villains) and yet, the story is still as exciting as exciting can be. We are introduced to new characters, new concepts that I have never thought I would see anywhere in my life. I don't want to spoil it, but my favorite part of this issue was when they were trying to figure out how to get off planet. The solution that they arrived in was something really creative. You can tell with the way that he is writing this series that BKV really spends a lot of time and effort and putting in as much love as he can into the book. And as always, Fiona Staples has been doing excellent work....career defining work I might add. Her character and concept designs are flawless and the same with the way that she tells a story. Overall, very satisfactory output from the creative team. The ending in particular, leaves me wanting more. Looking forward to the next issue!
Victories #1
Michael Oeming's art is an acquired taste almost similar in tone to Phil Hester and Scott McDaniel. While I may not be such a big fan of said style, I do realize that it is beautiful and is in a class of its own.
Having said that about the art, I actually have problems with this book. Yes problems. Plural.
For one, the design work. I do not know if it was done intentionally, but The main protagonist, Faustus looks almost exactly like, and packaged like Batman and has the attitude of Spider Man.
You'd think that that could have been avoided since this is creator owned work and you have carte blanche authority on what you could come up with.
Unless, of course, as I said earlier, unless this was done intentionally. To probably catch the eye of fans of both heroes so that they would snatch the comic up.
Another problem that I have is the very graphic way that the story was told. I have said before, numerous times, that I am against such violence shown in comic books as you can tell a story or have your point across without having to resort to such a brutal manner. I have mentioned Carte Blanche so I hope authors of Independent books would show some more discretion in the future. Also, I do not see any warning on the cover. The art style and the previously mentioned similarity to established characters might attract kids. Although, I am looking at a preview copy and not the final book so if that is addressed in the finished product, I do apologize.
The story is good enough as the hero villain relationship between Faustus and the Jackal is established. Same with conflict as our hero gets to struggle with his failures and shortcomings in this issue. The pacing is brilliant and the story flows quite nicely. A little bit standard super hero fare. Overall though, aside from the weaknesses I stated above, this issue is pretty decent enough for you to pick up.
Invincible #94
Alas, a pretty stellar effort from Kirkman and co. Invincible rarely, if ever, disappoints. Its a comfort book outside of the big two thats for sure. The whole gang is here, not only with the characters populating the Invincible-verse as they suffer yet another beatdown from a much more superior force, Hmmm, I guess I do have a minor quibble. This happens so much, so often, that it has been routine for this comic. Kirkman should refrain from using it at least for awhile as most of the supporting characters are appearing more and more useless as the issues go by. Heck, the new Invincible, Bulletproof, was not really very impressive in this issue. I'm hoping for a breakout moment for him so that he would not be regarded only as a cliche token replacement character and that he would stand on his own.
Sorry, I got distracted there for a moment. I also meant to say that the entire gang, the creative team involved for much of this titles evolution, are out in full force here. Kirkman, Walker, Ottley. and your in for a treat when that happens.
Of course, art-wise, no problem as we have often gotten used to with both artists. Story-wise, I love the use of Flashback to move the story forward. The momentum builds up and just about explodes on the final page. I am so looking forward to what happens next.
I mentioned the use of background characters above, but this issue, two of my favorite supporting characters get to shine significantly. I hope that Kirkman makes this a regular thing as Robot and Monster Girl are two excellent characters that shouldn't just be relegated in the side. Spin them off to their own title I say!
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Artifacts #20 Blood Strike #29 & Star Wars: Knights Errant #3!
Surprisingly, I didn't fall asleep with this one. I'm sorry, I didn't mean that to come out as harsh as it did. It's just that me and Ron Marz have a rather unique history.
You see, he's probably near the top of my least favorite writer list. I've tackled this in a past review and expounding on the reasons would take away from this particular issues review.
I came in this book knowing absolutely nothing about the history of the cast and the totems of power that feature prominently in the series. With the exception of little to nothing, just passing knowledge of Witchblade.
Having said all that, I'm actually happy with this particular issue. Marz skillfully balances pacing and character development in the rather short space that he was given. Using much of his veteran smarts there. My interest was absorbed early on in the game without looking back. I like the concept of this series which was the reason why I decided to try it. And I'm glad that I wasn't disappointed.
I was intrigued with this mysterious heart shaped artifact and the things that it allowed its wearer to do. Something awesome happens in the issues first act which propels the development of both character and story to the next. Bit of smart dialogue and character interplay and use of "Horror" as a story bit that I have not seen in quite awhile. It's rather rare that I get scared when reading a comic book but this issue really gave me chills. It made my hair stand up. Good job, Mr Marz.
And of course, I could not end this review, and do it justice, if I did not mention how beautiful the art is for this issue. Stephan should definitely get more high profile work. He deserves it.
This issue is reader friendly, has interesting concept with good writing and great art, so for the comic guy in me to the comic guy in you, I give a high recommendation.
Blood strike #29
Now this comic....well, I kinda dig what they were going for here. The concept is interesting. People given a second shot at life but as assassins, but... The execution was rather sub par. I got a "been there done that" vibe when I read it...and sorry to say, this one actually put me to sleep.
I just couldn't get myself into the characters (names & designs. I know nothing about blood strike's history, FYI) I felt that it was so tired and cliche that...I just lost interest.
Sadly, Rob Liefeld doesn't do much to deter his detractors here. It's the same old output from him which kinda added to the distraction. The plot, dialogue and it's execution are rather formulaic. Which translated to boring after a while. I really wanted to give a good review for Rob as I feel that the criticisms that he's gotten over the years has gotten way out of hand, but no such luck. This issue is pretty weak. As a new reader, didn't really totally got me. Sorry.
Knight Errant and Lost Tribe of The Sith #3
I have combined reviews for both books as they are from the same writer and because they pretty much run in the same formula: high octane adventure.
In this age of comics with multiple complex subplots that intertwine each other and serve as prologues for next months events, these books are a breath of fresh air.
It's rather rare that you find books that ate self contained within their own universes and are just concerned with telling a good, fun story.
I do understand that these are minis within a licensed universe but still, my argument remains.
Knight errant tells the tale of a lone Jedi who had infiltrated the ranks of the Sith while Lost Tribe is about a young, ambitious, headstrong Sith that is determined to carve out her own
Name.
It's quite funny but errant is at issue three and lost tribe in its first but they almost exactly read the same way to me. And I don't even mean that in a bad way! I really liked both issues! The plots aren't too complicated to analyze nor is it dumb. The characters are easily relatable and interesting and there's a good balance of character development and action for both books. Everyone will leave satisfied. The Star Wars franchise has been pretty strong this year, I hope it continues in the next! These two books won't disappoint and it would really look good as an added jewel to your collection.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Harvest #1, Think Tank #1
First issue of a very dark comic. It tackles the very sensitive issue of the illegal body parts trade. What I liked about it: The art. It's very moody, detailed and it fits the tone of the book perfectly. The pacing. A lot actually happens in this issue without sacrificing a good amount of character development....which is another good thing. We get introduced to our protagonist by using the flashback technique to delve into his recent past. To see the evolution of events that led to the beginning prologue of the story.
What I didn't like about it: the graphic violence. I say it every time, you can tell a dark story without being explicitly graphic about it. Every time extreme violence is used to move a story forward (probably except for zombie stories), I cannot help but think that it reeks of b-movie ism in my eyes. Other than that, I think this first issue effort was not so bad. It knows it's target audience. It doesn't decompress. And we are given enough compelling reasons to go and pick up the second instalment. If you are into noir, then definitely, this book is for you.
Think tank #1
This issue, delivers with a very lighthearted tone. It's fun and easily accessible with protagonists that are easily relatable.
It's the flip side of the manhattan project series. Almost it's reverse mirror image or spiritual cousin.
It's also very fast paced as we get a lot of history and details from our characters in the short span of this issue. It also works that a lot of the concepts and or technology used in this issue, are grounded in reality as explained in the book's bonus content.
One problem that i have....well, actually, Not that I have any problem with books done in black and white, as sometimes I feel that it is necessary, it's just that, I feel that this book would have benefitted better with color. As the writer infused his characters with life and dynamism it feels lacking or missing an "oomph" because it's devoid of color. But that's just me.
All in all, a good effort. A good clean book with a good starting point. If you are looking to get a break from superheroes, vigilantes, horror or your usual retinue, I highly recommend this one.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Angel and Faith, Darth Maul, Bobba Fett
This series has gotten a bit more...cosmic this issue as angel and co go out of their comfort zone to tackle something new. The art is okay. Nothing to write home about, but not too bad either. It's the story that I found a little lacking this time. While the revelations concerning Angel's son are interesting, it still failed to grab my interest enough to make me care.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Saga #5, Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #3
I was trying to approach this review with the most objective state of mind that I can muster. Examine every panel, go through every nook and cranny. Try to study every minute detail. Try to see if this project has any faults among all the good.
I can't find any.
Believe me I tried.
Saga, at just five issues so far, has been one of the most enjoyable comics that I've ever read apart from the big two....or no, make that even with the big two.
It's just amazing! The story is engaging. It's never boring. There's always something good happening. It's like watching an episode of your favorite tv show where you just can't get enough of it. The premise is good, you'll never run out of good stories from "protagonists running for their lives" kinds of stories. I also like how BKV managed to marry technology and magic for this series and it has been put to good use so far.
And the art. I may sound like a broken record but Fiona Staples is just an amazing artist! I keep saying that for every review of Saga that I make. I just can't help it. The character designs alone guarantees that this series is top dollar quality. And every panel comes alive and vibrant. The whole art team needs to get a raise actually.
This is a high concept, fantastically paced comic that clearly exemplifies thinking outside the box when it comes to execution of ideas. If you've got friends that have not read a comic book all their lives, this is the one that you give to them.
Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #3
This comic has gotten better with each subsequent issue. It is really nice to see Vader on the flip side. Being the prey as opposed to the hunter. I find it amazing that the Star Wars universe still continues to thrive even after all this time. They still manage to insert ideas in between sections of the movies wether it be novel, television or comic.
This book is one of the better ideas to come from the extended universe.
I thoroughly enjoyed this issue. I definitely thrilled at the scene inside the Jedi temple, which I couldn't really elaborate on too much for fear of spoilers, same thing with that scene when Vader finally reached his destination.
The art? Outstanding. You never see art like this on your average comic. Clearly the artist put a lot of care and effort with every detail in every panel. It's not so often that you get a solid one two punch when it comes to story and art. This book is one of the few exceptions.
This book is a must buy for any true blue star wars fan out there. One of the better series to come out of Dark Horse. I give it my 100% seal of approval.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Review: Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi - Force Storm #5

I do not really know what the problem is, but for me, it seems to be lacking a bit of "oomph" that would make it stand as a good book. Perhaps because it was exposition heavy? Perhaps the plot was a little too generic?
Review: Saga #4

Brian K Vaughan and Fiona Staples continue to bring awesomeness to the table with Saga – this issue in a disturbing way that is decidedly not for the faint of heart. In issue 4, Alana and Marco discuss ‘Gwendolyn’, the last page A-bomb from issue three. Meanwhile, The Will visits a place called ‘Sextillion’, which is just as graphic and disturbing as it sounds.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Review: Invincible #92

Kirkman, Ottley and co has done it again. This book, at least for this humble reader, has not had a dull moment since....I couldn't even remember when. They consistently deliver, breaking new ground with each chapter. There's always something in the air with this title, something happening that moves the story forward.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Angel and Faith #10, Star Wars: Boba Fett is Dead #2, Witchblade #156

This is a really fun issue and a gorgeous looking one at that! Chris Samnee! That's all the hook you need!
I hope he stays awhile in this book (no offence to the current artist.) This issue almost reads like a done in one. What with some unexpected visitors into Faith's humble abode. We then stumble upon some very interesting characters and delve into the secret history of another.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Review: Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #1

Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Review: Steed and Mrs Peel #5

You wouldn't really notice the personnel change as it still has the trademark weirdness that defined the last story. Art wise, still incredible. Like I said before, Ian Gibson should go places after this book is done.
Review: Saga #3

And speaking of characters, I have been aware of Fiona Staples for some time now, having followed her work with North 40 and Mystery Society.
Review: Manhattan Projects #3

This comic looks at the Manhattan Project . For those who don't know their history the Manhattan Project was a research and development project by the US government in the 1940s that produced the first atomic bomb. It follows all the people involved in the project but with a twist, to say the least this comic is pretty out there! it may be using real names but this comic is certainly not historically accurate!
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Oliver's Reviews: Star Wars: Blood Ties #1, Star Wars: Crimson Empire III #6, Star Wars: Dark Times #5, Angel and Faith #9

Apart from having a great cover, I think that the insides were even more amazing. Few comics outside of the big two rarely, completely take me in. From the moment that the first panel hit, my attention was grasped and never let go. I really loved the pacing of the book. Granted it has the simplest of storylines , the most basic of plots, a revenge fantasy, but still, it was enjoyable. The art for the book was well done too. It sort of reminds me of the work of Ariel Olivetti, if not better.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Reviews: Steed and Mrs Peel #4, Irredeemable #36, Manhattan Projects #2

For the most part, I have professed my love for this series.....
This issue though, sees some chinks in the armor.
While the art is still spectacular, it is pretty distracting how the artist drew the villains for the issue looking almost exactly alike.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Review: Star Wars: Agent of the Empire #5, The Old Republic - War #4

I love the ending to this series. The story flowed very well and all loose ends were wrapped up. The quality of the writing and the art from start to finish were top notch.
I am excited to see what's next for agent Jahan Cross.