Star Wars: Darth Maul Death Sentence #1 –
Tom Taylor follows up on a resuscitated Maul from the film while incorporating seeds of the Clone Wars into the book. His script is frenetic and it doesn’t really build on the return of Maul and his kinship with Savage Oppress. It strays from developing the brotherly relationship with the intent to lay foundation on their warrior aspect. That said…it’s an action book.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Renaldo's Reviews: Axe Cop, Debris, Grim Leaper and More!
Oliver's Reviews: Angel and Faith, Darth Maul, Bobba Fett
Angel and Faith #12
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.
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.
Steven's Reviews: Debris, Planet of the Apes, Resident Alien and More!
Debris #1
Looks like a post apocalyptic future where machines look like dinosaurs. They are the last tribe of humans it seems always looking for a source of fresh water. Back to the mechanical dinosaur creatures, there are smaller ones that kind of look like they belong in Mayan or old Indian cultures and larger ones called Colossal’s and well live up to their name.
Looks like a post apocalyptic future where machines look like dinosaurs. They are the last tribe of humans it seems always looking for a source of fresh water. Back to the mechanical dinosaur creatures, there are smaller ones that kind of look like they belong in Mayan or old Indian cultures and larger ones called Colossal’s and well live up to their name.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Creator Roundup
Review: Dorian Grey #1
First impression is wow this looks awesome. The art in this issue is spectacular, definitely not what I am used to from Bluewater. I’ll be honest the art is what usually keeps me away and I probably would never have looked twice at this and that would have been a big mistake on my part.
We open this up with a group of kids playing paintball. Mind you it took me a minute to realize it was paintball and not some sort of military assault, which also is a very good thing. Means this isn’t going to be anything I could have expected there will be twists, turns and I will need to pay close attention. I really rather like books like that, the ones that make you think, pay attention and suck you into the story. Also that part of this story takes place in modern times yeah I’m good with that too. Oh and the helicopter telling the kids to leave an ominous warning of things to come perhaps? Alas no just kids playing where they shouldn’t it seems.
The scene where his portrait is painted is breathtaking. The gold leaf inlay that highlights the bottom of the page did more to say the time period than the actual date on top of the page. The difference in style and mood was highly evident and its depiction seemed to be done with ease.
Now here is something I wasn’t prepared for and thoroughly enjoyed, that the story has been updated for a new generation and by using the obscenely rich, obnoxious and overly privileged. Dorian is living with a family in New York and they are upper echelon wealthy, the father while on business in England noticed a shipment being sent to America from his ancestor Dorian Gray. Curiouser and curiouser as the saying goes and he sent Dorian a key to see if there was anything of family value he wised to keep before the contents were sold off to settle an old debt.
So at the Port Authority they rummage through the container. Dorian and his “brother”/best friend and the dialogue here is pretty darn good. Loved the NCIS reference as well as the DeNozo or McGhee character references they really do something to solidify current pop culture. I also hope that they keep as much of this container as they can if for nothing else than because it’s bizarre and cool at the same time. Though finding the portrait of Dorian, his ancestor who just happens to be his double, all mangled and horrific was a dramatic ending.
I liked how the characterization was throughout the book. The scene’s at school and the extra credit event plus his apparent disdain for things that don’t interest him. He’s a complex kid who wants to fit in but I can tell he really doesn’t, no matter how hard he’s trying. It is an interesting dilemma and one that so far is being told extremely well.
I am looking forward to seeing how Dorian reacts as he learns the secrets of his family. The demon who was there during the painting I am sure haunts the Gray line and our current Dorian is trying to find as much about his family’s history as he can. Their meeting seems inevitable and what happens along the way should be good supernatural fun!
This issue right here should teach us never to judge a companies work by one or two offerings.
We open this up with a group of kids playing paintball. Mind you it took me a minute to realize it was paintball and not some sort of military assault, which also is a very good thing. Means this isn’t going to be anything I could have expected there will be twists, turns and I will need to pay close attention. I really rather like books like that, the ones that make you think, pay attention and suck you into the story. Also that part of this story takes place in modern times yeah I’m good with that too. Oh and the helicopter telling the kids to leave an ominous warning of things to come perhaps? Alas no just kids playing where they shouldn’t it seems.
The scene where his portrait is painted is breathtaking. The gold leaf inlay that highlights the bottom of the page did more to say the time period than the actual date on top of the page. The difference in style and mood was highly evident and its depiction seemed to be done with ease.
Now here is something I wasn’t prepared for and thoroughly enjoyed, that the story has been updated for a new generation and by using the obscenely rich, obnoxious and overly privileged. Dorian is living with a family in New York and they are upper echelon wealthy, the father while on business in England noticed a shipment being sent to America from his ancestor Dorian Gray. Curiouser and curiouser as the saying goes and he sent Dorian a key to see if there was anything of family value he wised to keep before the contents were sold off to settle an old debt.
So at the Port Authority they rummage through the container. Dorian and his “brother”/best friend and the dialogue here is pretty darn good. Loved the NCIS reference as well as the DeNozo or McGhee character references they really do something to solidify current pop culture. I also hope that they keep as much of this container as they can if for nothing else than because it’s bizarre and cool at the same time. Though finding the portrait of Dorian, his ancestor who just happens to be his double, all mangled and horrific was a dramatic ending.
I liked how the characterization was throughout the book. The scene’s at school and the extra credit event plus his apparent disdain for things that don’t interest him. He’s a complex kid who wants to fit in but I can tell he really doesn’t, no matter how hard he’s trying. It is an interesting dilemma and one that so far is being told extremely well.
I am looking forward to seeing how Dorian reacts as he learns the secrets of his family. The demon who was there during the painting I am sure haunts the Gray line and our current Dorian is trying to find as much about his family’s history as he can. Their meeting seems inevitable and what happens along the way should be good supernatural fun!
This issue right here should teach us never to judge a companies work by one or two offerings.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Tim's Reviews: Saga, Rachel Rising, Night of 1000 Wolves plus More!
Friday, July 20, 2012
Renaldo's Reviews: Uncanny X-Men #16, Night of 1000 Wolves #3, Justice league #11, Ultimate Comics: X-Men #14, Captain Marvel #1
Gillen throws a lot of resistance from Sinister here at the Phoenix 5 and I wonder if Sinister really is that strong. He seems stronger than the Avengers to be taking on all these bigwigs. That said, he uses his assortment of clones pretty well and Gillen uses his Brit-savvy into an array of intricate plots. Sinister wants to extricate the Phoenix Force and while he incapacitates the 5 stars a bit too easily, the Scott and Pryor arcs are just too salivating.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
On the Cover: Viktor Kalvachev
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Renaldo's Reviews: Saga #4-5, Concrete, Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #2-3
Saga #4, 5 –
BKV slows the pace down a bit and sheds some insight into marital ‘turmoil’ and minor disagreements. It is however done with a touch of finely drawn and risqué art from the ever wonderful Fiona Staples and seeing the protagonists in knots when threats arise always allows BKV to shine. The plot thickens here as some of the ‘villains’ find themselves in a moral dilemma and their compasses are soon sent into spirals. There’s a nice touch of humanity, empathy and despair added to the ‘baddies’ and there’s a Paul Haggis aka CRASH feel to this tale that everything and everyone will intersect, with dire ramifications. Usually, this is where I complain that nothing has been shed about the narrator aka BABY…but here, it works just fine. There’s an element of mystery that even if not factored in, still never discredits the title. (8/10)
Concrete (one shot) –
Paul Chadwick draws and scripts a very endearing Dark Horse anthology which features three stories about Concrete, someone very similar to Ben Grimm, as he sets out to change the world in a Forest Gump-like fashion. His endearment and genuine warm tone makes a touching read as he investigates the inner workings of the human mind while positing solutions against crime and even, doing some detective work himself. His humanitarian side is most profound as he shows being different isn’t such a bad thing. It’s a lovely and soft read that treads on the gentle nature of the human heart. (9/10)
Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #2, 3–
Haden Blackman does well in his scripts where an assassination attempt on Palpatine throws Vader, a miltant Laurita Tohm and a sneaky, Moff Trachta, on a quest to eke out the conspirers. What’s fashioned also is an engrained plot where the Jedi Council hid war prisoners, loyal to Palpatine, in a special prison to keep these mongrels away from the galaxy. Vader is off to find them but the pivotal Tohm finds the reader guessing as to his true allegiance. Trachta is very secretive and duplicitous as is the conniving scheme to off Palpatine. Some uncharacteristic traits do befall the title – why did the Jedi behave like Siths, why is Vader punching stuff and not using the Force and how could the sentinel Jedi at the Prison not sense that all her follow order-members…were eradicated. These are fine threads that really lower the quality of a story that has good meat. The Agustin Alessio art makes up though as it gleams with a smooth and edgy take of space. He really outstands and takes the book to a new level. I’m still in. (8/10)
Oliver's Reviews: Saga #5, Star Wars: Darth Vader and the Ghost Prison #3
Saga #5
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.
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.
Steven's Reviews: The Activity #7, Prophecy #2, The Spider #3
The Activity #7
I loved the call signs here for the operation as they were all super-hero based. “I’m told that Sergeant Kleker reads comic books sir.” That really tickled my fancy I must say. It was nice touch, homage what have you to the industry and showing everyone that comic fans are in all walks of life.
I will say that I’ve never been in the military and that all of my knowledge comes from books, movies and television so I can never be sure what it’s really like but this seems pretty much on par with what I imagined. Plus real life Marines are helping them out from what I understand. I am fascinated by the Jargon, lingo and such that they use as well as the discipline needed to make these operations work.
Being part of a covert team cannot be easy and I’m sure it’s even harder when you’re trying to date someone like Major Dallas is. Especially when you’re commanding General tells you to break up with him. Okay now I have to admit that when we saw him and the General asked for what he did I thought there is more to him than meets the eye. Perhaps there is some ultra secret nefarious reason he is with her to expose the government or something along those lines. Even us seeing the break-up over lunch didn’t squelch my suspicions.
The current mission is to turn the goat, Mohammed Saoudi. By using some psychological tactics, making him scared beyond belief and keeping him from sleeping so they can swoop in and save the day is well what could go wrong? I love how they are setting all this up with both low and high tech stuff. There are setting old fashioned style one could almost say.
I have to admit this isn’t like other books it has elements of a good team book along with the Bourne and Bond books all mixed together to create something special and unique. This really is a pleasure to read.
Prophecy #2
Dynamite Entertainment 2012
Written by Ron Marz
Art by Walter Geovani
Colours by Adriano Lucas
This issue we open with Dr. Herbert West who is currently locked up in an asylum, a nut house. He’s going on about the end of the world and how he can help prevent it and the guards of course think he’s just ranting like any other lunatic and ignore him while doing their rounds.
Which by the way it was a nice move to put the creative team in the cells next to his on the ward I rather enjoyed the nod there.
The guards go on the alert when West stops rambling on and when they rush back to his cell they find it empty. He’s vanished into thin air.
Meanwhile in the Yucatan Peninsula Dracula and Vampirella interrogate Red Sonja, believing her to be associated with Kulan Gath. Upon deciding she isn’t in league with the sorcerer they release her as Pantha arrives. It’s at this point in time that we get a quick abridged version of Sonja’s history with Gath. At the end a bargain is struck that they should work together to end his scheme.
Sonja believes there are only four but then Dracula says not quite as Eva’s presence is revealed and she is not alone. She has found Herbert West and brought him along as well. They give him a moment to explain who he is and he pulls out the Necronomicon, which he believes his copy to be the original. In it there is a description of the events unfolding before them and he’s there to help oppose those forces bent on destruction.
I liked when Sonja asked why these dark beings would want this man stopped and the logical answer was given if humanity is destroyed so are they. They are dependent upon each other and sometimes ones own survival means protecting others from threats they know nothing about.
And then they were six.
The see Gath entering an old Mayan pyramid and follow him in. When they finally find him he’s at a Mayan Calendar Wheel and performing the summoning spell calling forth his avatars. Which by the way he is successful in doing I might add.
Sonja rushes forward bent on destroying Gath but is halted by an Avatar that is struck by a new arrival. Athena vows that these gods aren’t the only ones who will battle and that they will be destroyed.
And then they were seven.
So far I love the way that everyone is meeting up it doesn’t really feel forced or rushed at all and it comes across incredibly natural. I think Ron Marz is one of those rare talents whose work goes relatively unnoticed and under appreciated. Personally I enjoy his work and will take every opportunity to experience it. Then again we’ve also got some great artwork here as well to go along with the writing. I also enjoyed the who’s who entry pages on Dracula and Kulan Gath it goes a long way to helping flesh out the characters I am unfamiliar with.
The Spider #3
Dynamite Entertainment 2012
Written by David Liss
Illustrated by Colton Worley
I like how this issue opens with a couple of kids trying to sneak in to the Hard Rock New York because the carding practices are lacking. Only this trip is going to be their last as the Egyptian Gods are releasing their zombie gas on the unsuspecting patrons. I love the reasoning behind it too, just to drive him crazy making him wonder why this place at this time and all that jazz. To make him fear the chaos and to know he cannot stop it. Seriously this has been so darn well written that I can’t help but be impressed and completely drawn in.
Then we’ve got the art and the scene where the Spider lands on the ambulance while it’s moving was epic! I mean really it is one of those moments you look and you go how the hell was he able to get that effect?
Richard’s been cut off from his usual sources since it seems that too many people think he’s really the Spider. His best friend the Commissioner can’t afford a tainted case so he’s been sent to exile. Apparently too many people think Richard is the Spider so he’s going to have to do something to fix that right quick. Either by hiring someone to play the role and they see him at the same time or just come clean and tell the world who he is. Which isn’t really an option I know but still it’s a good thought.
So what do you do when you’ve been cut off from your sources? You head off to see your journalist ex-girlfriend who also happens to be the Commissioner’s wife for intel and well help. I’m not sure flirting or trying to use a guilt trip is the surefire way to get what you want but you can hear the desperation in his voice during their talk. Thanks to both David and Colton you can get the full effect at how this is affecting him.
The antagonistic, sarcastic and volatile relationship Richard has with his father isn’t an act as I originally thought. I figured this was part of his plan to keep people from thinking he was who he was but he really hates his old man. I get it he helps manufacture weapons for the armed forces. Including a gas that is similar in composition to this zombie gas being used. He slips a bug, literally a spider bug, on his father’s computer so it can be hacked easily enough.
Ah Ram Singh Attorney at Law and his best friend who just happens to help him out in his other identity. Slippery slope he’s on helping out the Spider while being a practicing lawyer. Still interesting dynamic here and a helpful man to be friends with I must say.
The Egyptian god pair show up again after the Spider makes a little noise. This whole exchange is wonderfully scripted and illustrated. The dialogue is utterly fantastic and it’s another reason why I am enjoying this series as much as I am.
On the whole this book has taken be complete surprise in just how high the quality is.
I loved the call signs here for the operation as they were all super-hero based. “I’m told that Sergeant Kleker reads comic books sir.” That really tickled my fancy I must say. It was nice touch, homage what have you to the industry and showing everyone that comic fans are in all walks of life.
I will say that I’ve never been in the military and that all of my knowledge comes from books, movies and television so I can never be sure what it’s really like but this seems pretty much on par with what I imagined. Plus real life Marines are helping them out from what I understand. I am fascinated by the Jargon, lingo and such that they use as well as the discipline needed to make these operations work.
Being part of a covert team cannot be easy and I’m sure it’s even harder when you’re trying to date someone like Major Dallas is. Especially when you’re commanding General tells you to break up with him. Okay now I have to admit that when we saw him and the General asked for what he did I thought there is more to him than meets the eye. Perhaps there is some ultra secret nefarious reason he is with her to expose the government or something along those lines. Even us seeing the break-up over lunch didn’t squelch my suspicions.
The current mission is to turn the goat, Mohammed Saoudi. By using some psychological tactics, making him scared beyond belief and keeping him from sleeping so they can swoop in and save the day is well what could go wrong? I love how they are setting all this up with both low and high tech stuff. There are setting old fashioned style one could almost say.
I have to admit this isn’t like other books it has elements of a good team book along with the Bourne and Bond books all mixed together to create something special and unique. This really is a pleasure to read.
Prophecy #2
Dynamite Entertainment 2012
Written by Ron Marz
Art by Walter Geovani
Colours by Adriano Lucas
This issue we open with Dr. Herbert West who is currently locked up in an asylum, a nut house. He’s going on about the end of the world and how he can help prevent it and the guards of course think he’s just ranting like any other lunatic and ignore him while doing their rounds.
Which by the way it was a nice move to put the creative team in the cells next to his on the ward I rather enjoyed the nod there.
The guards go on the alert when West stops rambling on and when they rush back to his cell they find it empty. He’s vanished into thin air.
Meanwhile in the Yucatan Peninsula Dracula and Vampirella interrogate Red Sonja, believing her to be associated with Kulan Gath. Upon deciding she isn’t in league with the sorcerer they release her as Pantha arrives. It’s at this point in time that we get a quick abridged version of Sonja’s history with Gath. At the end a bargain is struck that they should work together to end his scheme.
Sonja believes there are only four but then Dracula says not quite as Eva’s presence is revealed and she is not alone. She has found Herbert West and brought him along as well. They give him a moment to explain who he is and he pulls out the Necronomicon, which he believes his copy to be the original. In it there is a description of the events unfolding before them and he’s there to help oppose those forces bent on destruction.
I liked when Sonja asked why these dark beings would want this man stopped and the logical answer was given if humanity is destroyed so are they. They are dependent upon each other and sometimes ones own survival means protecting others from threats they know nothing about.
And then they were six.
The see Gath entering an old Mayan pyramid and follow him in. When they finally find him he’s at a Mayan Calendar Wheel and performing the summoning spell calling forth his avatars. Which by the way he is successful in doing I might add.
Sonja rushes forward bent on destroying Gath but is halted by an Avatar that is struck by a new arrival. Athena vows that these gods aren’t the only ones who will battle and that they will be destroyed.
And then they were seven.
So far I love the way that everyone is meeting up it doesn’t really feel forced or rushed at all and it comes across incredibly natural. I think Ron Marz is one of those rare talents whose work goes relatively unnoticed and under appreciated. Personally I enjoy his work and will take every opportunity to experience it. Then again we’ve also got some great artwork here as well to go along with the writing. I also enjoyed the who’s who entry pages on Dracula and Kulan Gath it goes a long way to helping flesh out the characters I am unfamiliar with.
The Spider #3
Dynamite Entertainment 2012
Written by David Liss
Illustrated by Colton Worley
I like how this issue opens with a couple of kids trying to sneak in to the Hard Rock New York because the carding practices are lacking. Only this trip is going to be their last as the Egyptian Gods are releasing their zombie gas on the unsuspecting patrons. I love the reasoning behind it too, just to drive him crazy making him wonder why this place at this time and all that jazz. To make him fear the chaos and to know he cannot stop it. Seriously this has been so darn well written that I can’t help but be impressed and completely drawn in.
Then we’ve got the art and the scene where the Spider lands on the ambulance while it’s moving was epic! I mean really it is one of those moments you look and you go how the hell was he able to get that effect?
Richard’s been cut off from his usual sources since it seems that too many people think he’s really the Spider. His best friend the Commissioner can’t afford a tainted case so he’s been sent to exile. Apparently too many people think Richard is the Spider so he’s going to have to do something to fix that right quick. Either by hiring someone to play the role and they see him at the same time or just come clean and tell the world who he is. Which isn’t really an option I know but still it’s a good thought.
So what do you do when you’ve been cut off from your sources? You head off to see your journalist ex-girlfriend who also happens to be the Commissioner’s wife for intel and well help. I’m not sure flirting or trying to use a guilt trip is the surefire way to get what you want but you can hear the desperation in his voice during their talk. Thanks to both David and Colton you can get the full effect at how this is affecting him.
The antagonistic, sarcastic and volatile relationship Richard has with his father isn’t an act as I originally thought. I figured this was part of his plan to keep people from thinking he was who he was but he really hates his old man. I get it he helps manufacture weapons for the armed forces. Including a gas that is similar in composition to this zombie gas being used. He slips a bug, literally a spider bug, on his father’s computer so it can be hacked easily enough.
Ah Ram Singh Attorney at Law and his best friend who just happens to help him out in his other identity. Slippery slope he’s on helping out the Spider while being a practicing lawyer. Still interesting dynamic here and a helpful man to be friends with I must say.
The Egyptian god pair show up again after the Spider makes a little noise. This whole exchange is wonderfully scripted and illustrated. The dialogue is utterly fantastic and it’s another reason why I am enjoying this series as much as I am.
On the whole this book has taken be complete surprise in just how high the quality is.
Steven's Reviews: Mars Attacks #2, Star Trek/Dr Who #2, Kiss #2, Danger Girl/GI Joe #1
Mars Attacks #2
IDW Publishing 2012
Written & Lettered by John Layman
Art by John McCrea
Colour by Andrew Elder
After a disastrous recon mission in 1962, Martian scout Zar has returned to Earth a half-century later as a general with an invasion force in two, the likes of which have never been seen by humanity.
I have to say that while the humor here is perfectly delightful it’s also expertly blended with a sense of realism to balance it out. So while the imagery is Kitsch a more serious tone in dialogue makes this even more fun. John has managed to find just the right balance and tone for this series to be tons of fun while not going too far in either direction. It isn’t too kitschy and it doesn’t try to take itself too seriously either so we’re left with a purely fun book to read.
I love how the captured alien from 1963, which with his buddies went ballistic at a country fair, lied to his tormentors. He managed to trick his captors into building a device they thought was a weapon and when used it blew up in their faces giving him the last laugh. I shouldn’t laugh since the White House was kind of in ruins but it was funny.
McCrea and Elder do such a nice job doing the balancing act as well. The art here is wonderfully detailed and brightly coloured giving that kitschy feel as well with a serious undertone to it. I’ve not seen the movie or read anything else related to this franchise as I’ve thought it too much stupid humor for me but from what I am experiencing here it’s an intelligent humor that has me smiling and looking forward to more.
Star Trek TNG/Doctor Who Assimilation2 #3
IDW Publishing 2012
Written by Scott & David Tipton with Tony Lee
Art by J.K. Woodward and the Sharp Brothers
Captain Picard has requested that some members of the crew test a recent upgrade to the holodeck, a program that simulates life in 1941 San Francisco. There, they run into three mysterious strangers, on claiming to be a “Doctor,” and they take them to the Captain. At that moment a transmission comes in informing the team of the Borg/Cybermen attack casting suspicion on the Doctor who knows a little too much about the new enemy.
Oh my stars and garters is this series ever so much more fun than I was expecting it to be. Their personalities are all spot on perfect and I just hear Matt Smith’s Doctor talking during his dialogue. The boys have done more than a superb job thus far.
I also have to say that while they have run from their enemies to regroup and figure out a strategy Data finds evidence that the Enterprise has once before come into contact with Cyber-Men. However it was Captain James T. Kirk and his crew who encountered them at an archeological dig. So it seems that we are going to get a flashback to Kirk, Bones and company, William Shatner cast, and the Doctor, Tom Baker and his colourful scarf version.
It is times like this that I curse IDW for their limited previews they send out because I’m dying to see more of this. Any fan of either or both franchises will know that this is a must have for its writing and art are just that incredibly good and reminiscent of their respective series. It really doesn’t get any better than this.
Kiss #2
IDW Publishing 2012
Written by Chris Ryall
Art by Jamal Igle
Colours by Romulo Fajardo Jr.
So we kind of get a few answers in the beginning of this the second issue. Though we do have to listen to “wicked” Lester’s rant and make threats before getting to them.
Lester has the four of them captured and in his ramblings we learn that their power, from their talismans, is closely related to the power of his master and that this master can absorb that power for his own. Which is why they aren’t dead yet, Lester wants to prove he’s a good disciple and well wants more power of course.
Also the four of them are avatars, the Catman, the Celestial, the Demon and the Starchild. Each one powered by their talisman. There is also a force that is there to guide them, She, who seems to be an almost heavenly being or that type at least.
Chris’ mystical take on the characters is a fantastic one. I like how each characters personality is closely tied into their avatar. So the Demon is brash and impulsive, the Celestial is thoughtful and more peaceful and so on and so forth. The Catman has empathy with any animals, creatures what have you and that is interesting as well. So far this is beyond expectation of it being a rocker book and has taken on more of the mystical super-powered save the universe type of book and I have to admit I’m behind this one hundred percent.
Then there is Jamal’s art which is pretty frakkin fantastic as well. Romulo’s colours set it all off nicely. This is a nice example of how well words and pictures can work together to make an exceptional book.
Danger Girl/G.I. Joe #1 (of 4)
IDW Publishing 2012
Written by Andy Hartnell
Pencils by John Royle
Inks by Philip Moy
Colours by Romulo Fajardo Jr.
First thing you notice is that the art here is pretty darn good. Very highly reminiscent of the Real American Hero comic, thank goodness too that it isn’t the cartoony style we’ve seen in recent Danger Girl mini’s.
The book opens with the Joe’s running an op and Cobra attacking. It’s an aerial battle between the two which will reveal which version of the Joes’ this is.
We don’t get to see how they meet in the first nine pages but I can hazard a guess that somehow Scarlett and Lady Jaye know the girls from some kind of past training. That is the most logical explanation but then again both organizations are so covert they don’t even know the other exists.
From what I can see this is going to be one hell of a fun ride so buckle up and get ready for the adventure to begin! Forget the summer box office the biggest event is happening here at IDW.
IDW Publishing 2012
Written & Lettered by John Layman
Art by John McCrea
Colour by Andrew Elder
After a disastrous recon mission in 1962, Martian scout Zar has returned to Earth a half-century later as a general with an invasion force in two, the likes of which have never been seen by humanity.
I have to say that while the humor here is perfectly delightful it’s also expertly blended with a sense of realism to balance it out. So while the imagery is Kitsch a more serious tone in dialogue makes this even more fun. John has managed to find just the right balance and tone for this series to be tons of fun while not going too far in either direction. It isn’t too kitschy and it doesn’t try to take itself too seriously either so we’re left with a purely fun book to read.
I love how the captured alien from 1963, which with his buddies went ballistic at a country fair, lied to his tormentors. He managed to trick his captors into building a device they thought was a weapon and when used it blew up in their faces giving him the last laugh. I shouldn’t laugh since the White House was kind of in ruins but it was funny.
McCrea and Elder do such a nice job doing the balancing act as well. The art here is wonderfully detailed and brightly coloured giving that kitschy feel as well with a serious undertone to it. I’ve not seen the movie or read anything else related to this franchise as I’ve thought it too much stupid humor for me but from what I am experiencing here it’s an intelligent humor that has me smiling and looking forward to more.
Star Trek TNG/Doctor Who Assimilation2 #3
IDW Publishing 2012
Written by Scott & David Tipton with Tony Lee
Art by J.K. Woodward and the Sharp Brothers
Captain Picard has requested that some members of the crew test a recent upgrade to the holodeck, a program that simulates life in 1941 San Francisco. There, they run into three mysterious strangers, on claiming to be a “Doctor,” and they take them to the Captain. At that moment a transmission comes in informing the team of the Borg/Cybermen attack casting suspicion on the Doctor who knows a little too much about the new enemy.
Oh my stars and garters is this series ever so much more fun than I was expecting it to be. Their personalities are all spot on perfect and I just hear Matt Smith’s Doctor talking during his dialogue. The boys have done more than a superb job thus far.
I also have to say that while they have run from their enemies to regroup and figure out a strategy Data finds evidence that the Enterprise has once before come into contact with Cyber-Men. However it was Captain James T. Kirk and his crew who encountered them at an archeological dig. So it seems that we are going to get a flashback to Kirk, Bones and company, William Shatner cast, and the Doctor, Tom Baker and his colourful scarf version.
It is times like this that I curse IDW for their limited previews they send out because I’m dying to see more of this. Any fan of either or both franchises will know that this is a must have for its writing and art are just that incredibly good and reminiscent of their respective series. It really doesn’t get any better than this.
Kiss #2
IDW Publishing 2012
Written by Chris Ryall
Art by Jamal Igle
Colours by Romulo Fajardo Jr.
So we kind of get a few answers in the beginning of this the second issue. Though we do have to listen to “wicked” Lester’s rant and make threats before getting to them.
Lester has the four of them captured and in his ramblings we learn that their power, from their talismans, is closely related to the power of his master and that this master can absorb that power for his own. Which is why they aren’t dead yet, Lester wants to prove he’s a good disciple and well wants more power of course.
Also the four of them are avatars, the Catman, the Celestial, the Demon and the Starchild. Each one powered by their talisman. There is also a force that is there to guide them, She, who seems to be an almost heavenly being or that type at least.
Chris’ mystical take on the characters is a fantastic one. I like how each characters personality is closely tied into their avatar. So the Demon is brash and impulsive, the Celestial is thoughtful and more peaceful and so on and so forth. The Catman has empathy with any animals, creatures what have you and that is interesting as well. So far this is beyond expectation of it being a rocker book and has taken on more of the mystical super-powered save the universe type of book and I have to admit I’m behind this one hundred percent.
Then there is Jamal’s art which is pretty frakkin fantastic as well. Romulo’s colours set it all off nicely. This is a nice example of how well words and pictures can work together to make an exceptional book.
Danger Girl/G.I. Joe #1 (of 4)
IDW Publishing 2012
Written by Andy Hartnell
Pencils by John Royle
Inks by Philip Moy
Colours by Romulo Fajardo Jr.
First thing you notice is that the art here is pretty darn good. Very highly reminiscent of the Real American Hero comic, thank goodness too that it isn’t the cartoony style we’ve seen in recent Danger Girl mini’s.
The book opens with the Joe’s running an op and Cobra attacking. It’s an aerial battle between the two which will reveal which version of the Joes’ this is.
We don’t get to see how they meet in the first nine pages but I can hazard a guess that somehow Scarlett and Lady Jaye know the girls from some kind of past training. That is the most logical explanation but then again both organizations are so covert they don’t even know the other exists.
From what I can see this is going to be one hell of a fun ride so buckle up and get ready for the adventure to begin! Forget the summer box office the biggest event is happening here at IDW.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Creator Roundup
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Review: The Massive #2
In the months following the Crash—a global eco-socio-enviornmental cataclysm that sent the world into chaos – the direct-action conservationist ship Kapital searches the world’s oceans for the Massive its missing sister ship.
Off the coast of Russia, the Kapital hides in dense fog from marauding Siberian pirates. Mary, and several more of the crew, are out in a zodiac fast-attack boat attempting to lure the pirates away.
Brian is creating quite a new and unique world here. By doing some now and then storytelling we get to see the relationship between Mary and Cal and why she is so important to him. We also get to see the world at large, a new Hong Kong being built upon the water on top of and around the sunken city.
We see how the crew of the Kapital operates now under Cal’s command. They seem to be a well oiled machine having been at sea for quite some time now. I am curious as to how long they’ve been together, I mean I am assuming it was before the Crash but it hasn’t been specified, and I’m naturally curious.
There is so much danger in this new world, pirates, bombers, it seems that whoever has the most weapons has the most power and rules the largest portion of land and those that don’t steal what they need. There is also a constant threat of natural disasters still to contend with. Earthquakes at sea causing whirlpools, continental shifts and flooded coastal areas not to mention objects entering Earths atmosphere.
It’s definitely a captivating world and one that begs for further exploration. Both words and art work extremely well together to portray this fascinating world they live in.
Off the coast of Russia, the Kapital hides in dense fog from marauding Siberian pirates. Mary, and several more of the crew, are out in a zodiac fast-attack boat attempting to lure the pirates away.
Brian is creating quite a new and unique world here. By doing some now and then storytelling we get to see the relationship between Mary and Cal and why she is so important to him. We also get to see the world at large, a new Hong Kong being built upon the water on top of and around the sunken city.
We see how the crew of the Kapital operates now under Cal’s command. They seem to be a well oiled machine having been at sea for quite some time now. I am curious as to how long they’ve been together, I mean I am assuming it was before the Crash but it hasn’t been specified, and I’m naturally curious.
There is so much danger in this new world, pirates, bombers, it seems that whoever has the most weapons has the most power and rules the largest portion of land and those that don’t steal what they need. There is also a constant threat of natural disasters still to contend with. Earthquakes at sea causing whirlpools, continental shifts and flooded coastal areas not to mention objects entering Earths atmosphere.
It’s definitely a captivating world and one that begs for further exploration. Both words and art work extremely well together to portray this fascinating world they live in.
Review: The Strain #6
Okay this is an absolutely stunning portrait cover of Abraham by E.G. Gist! It really is just stunningly gorgeous I hope we see more like this in the future.
We open with Eph and Nora bailing Abraham out of jail. While they are on the way to his shoppe they get a history lesion from Abraham. Once at the shoppe the history lesson continues along with a demonstration. Now the image on the cover makes perfect sense.
I love that there are seven original ancient vampires, supposedly. Three stayed in the old world and three traveled to the new world. Where on, the Master as he’s become known as, is the lone rogue.
It’s all a bit much to take in but Abraham takes the pair on a hunting expedition which erases any trace of doubt that Vampires now exist and the plague is running rampant through Manhattan. He gets them to understand what is going to happen if this is left unchecked. With the CDC Eph likens this spread to a disease, its easier for him to comprehend it this way. He isn’t entirely off either this is a plague and it does travel like any disease does and more quickly than anyone is prepared for.
I like that we get to see some of the more mundane stuff happening around this “outbreak” and yes I am referring to Eph’s son. His custody hearing is happening and he’s off running around trying to stop a vampire epidemic. I enjoyed that he freaked out and it was Nora who was the voice of reason. I mean he is working on a CDC case that is of the utmost importance how can they fault for that.
It turns out easily enough considering his alcoholic past. Though he’s been sober going on two years that isn’t enough. Still this hearing is almost academic considering what is happening if you think about it.
Well they think that the police have finally come around to their way of thinking only it turns out they’ve been caught on tape killing vampires who they believe to be just regular people. Now they’ve got a conflict with the police that will impede their progress and let the plague spread more easily.
David is doing some marvelous things with his interpretation of the novel, not that I’ve read them yet. I say that because I am thoroughly enjoying what I am reading. It cannot be easy to pick what is important to the story and needs to be on the page and what helps to make it that much more effective, scary, and creepy and an all around stand out from the crowd read. He’s really made this a must have each and every month.
The artwork this issue was brighter than I am used to seeing it. Then again we didn’t spend as much time around the vampires and the darkness as normal either. I like how the two are separated, light and dark, the contrast is striking and effective.
We open with Eph and Nora bailing Abraham out of jail. While they are on the way to his shoppe they get a history lesion from Abraham. Once at the shoppe the history lesson continues along with a demonstration. Now the image on the cover makes perfect sense.
I love that there are seven original ancient vampires, supposedly. Three stayed in the old world and three traveled to the new world. Where on, the Master as he’s become known as, is the lone rogue.
It’s all a bit much to take in but Abraham takes the pair on a hunting expedition which erases any trace of doubt that Vampires now exist and the plague is running rampant through Manhattan. He gets them to understand what is going to happen if this is left unchecked. With the CDC Eph likens this spread to a disease, its easier for him to comprehend it this way. He isn’t entirely off either this is a plague and it does travel like any disease does and more quickly than anyone is prepared for.
I like that we get to see some of the more mundane stuff happening around this “outbreak” and yes I am referring to Eph’s son. His custody hearing is happening and he’s off running around trying to stop a vampire epidemic. I enjoyed that he freaked out and it was Nora who was the voice of reason. I mean he is working on a CDC case that is of the utmost importance how can they fault for that.
It turns out easily enough considering his alcoholic past. Though he’s been sober going on two years that isn’t enough. Still this hearing is almost academic considering what is happening if you think about it.
Well they think that the police have finally come around to their way of thinking only it turns out they’ve been caught on tape killing vampires who they believe to be just regular people. Now they’ve got a conflict with the police that will impede their progress and let the plague spread more easily.
David is doing some marvelous things with his interpretation of the novel, not that I’ve read them yet. I say that because I am thoroughly enjoying what I am reading. It cannot be easy to pick what is important to the story and needs to be on the page and what helps to make it that much more effective, scary, and creepy and an all around stand out from the crowd read. He’s really made this a must have each and every month.
The artwork this issue was brighter than I am used to seeing it. Then again we didn’t spend as much time around the vampires and the darkness as normal either. I like how the two are separated, light and dark, the contrast is striking and effective.
Review: Revival #1
Okay I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this book and to be perfectly honest I’m still not sure what I read. I mean the story opens with a Zorse, a Zebra/Horse hybrid bred for shows and such, dying.
Then we go to the border and police and the CDC and they talk as if some religious nuts are revivalists. Of course there is tension here as well which was natural to see and handled very well.
Then we get the star of our little story, Dana, a police officer who works for her father, has a son and is a single parent. Now it’s before school and her son is outside playing in the snow where he hears a noise and goes to investigate and finds himself face to face with an alien.
After Dad tells her her assignment Dana goes to interview a family that owned the Zorse. On the way she finds her sister standing on a bridge staring at the ice as it flows down river. Instead of going to school herself she tags along with her sister. Here things get even weirder as the old lady has pliers and stabs her daughter in the neck, killing her. She’s going off about how her teeth keep growing in and how she has to yank them to wear her dentures. She’s lost it mentally seriously and then she attacks Dana. Martha attacks the old lady but she ends up killing Martha, the sister. Well then as it turns out Martha is revived and isn’t dead and kills the old lady and says don’t tell dad.
This was one of the most bizarre stories I’ve read in I don’t know how long. Everything in this is a what the blank moment. You keep reading and you keep getting deeper and deeper into something so strange that you can’t put it down you have to keep going. After finishing the last page you want more but then you go back and re-read it because you need to make sure you read what you just read.
Wow alright this is one of those books where sometimes words fail you but you know its something incredibly special.
Then we go to the border and police and the CDC and they talk as if some religious nuts are revivalists. Of course there is tension here as well which was natural to see and handled very well.
Then we get the star of our little story, Dana, a police officer who works for her father, has a son and is a single parent. Now it’s before school and her son is outside playing in the snow where he hears a noise and goes to investigate and finds himself face to face with an alien.
After Dad tells her her assignment Dana goes to interview a family that owned the Zorse. On the way she finds her sister standing on a bridge staring at the ice as it flows down river. Instead of going to school herself she tags along with her sister. Here things get even weirder as the old lady has pliers and stabs her daughter in the neck, killing her. She’s going off about how her teeth keep growing in and how she has to yank them to wear her dentures. She’s lost it mentally seriously and then she attacks Dana. Martha attacks the old lady but she ends up killing Martha, the sister. Well then as it turns out Martha is revived and isn’t dead and kills the old lady and says don’t tell dad.
This was one of the most bizarre stories I’ve read in I don’t know how long. Everything in this is a what the blank moment. You keep reading and you keep getting deeper and deeper into something so strange that you can’t put it down you have to keep going. After finishing the last page you want more but then you go back and re-read it because you need to make sure you read what you just read.
Wow alright this is one of those books where sometimes words fail you but you know its something incredibly special.
Review: Enormous #1
First thing I noticed was that the art here is utterly fantastic! The attention to detail is incredible and the colours are simply gorgeous. On a whole this would be the kind of stand out that would garner attention and make people flip through it.
Animals at least that are what they look like to me such as alligator’s, lizards, flies, preying mantis’ even vampire bats all the size of buildings or SUV’s. These beasts are Enormous and they are mutations caused by man years ago. They are the downfall of civilization they are the reason the human race is endangered.
Ellen watched what looked like an alligator eat her mother. Now a year later she goes and rescues people and brings them to a safe haven. On this trip while saving some children she’s captured and taken to meet someone. Chaos ensues literally and she has to make an escape with the kids and those that came to rescue her.
This isn’t an easy world they live in. It really is survival of the fittest and quite possibly the biggest. Even the plants have mutated to give psychotropic drugs to make you feel euphoria so that they may eat them, man eating plants. Thanks to one ecological disaster the planet is irrevocably changed. Birds, bugs you name it the skies are theirs now.
Even in the silo they call home, Ellen is considered a loose cannon and this latest unauthorized excursion has brought unwanted attention on them. The guys from Phoenix have followed them and if they have to fight for survival they will.
However Ellen takes a small party and heads off in a different direction hoping to lure them away from the rest. It works of course but we do finally get to learn what exactly happened. Alchem created a chemical to turn arid deserts to a thriving jungle only it worked too well and the animals, insects and the rest started mutating and becoming enormous.
The governments of the world shut the nodes down with the scientists and everyone inside. They were afraid that they were contaminated and they were right. They used the chemicals on themselves to create a next stage in human evolution that was forced and unnatural. Now they share the planet with humans and the enormous trying to do nothing more than survive.
They went from a world where food and fuel were in short supply to a world where they still had to fight for their very survival. Its cautionary tale at best, a mini-series in comic book form and one heck of a good read. This ‘what could be’ story rivals many that I’ve already seen including made for Syfy movies.
Animals at least that are what they look like to me such as alligator’s, lizards, flies, preying mantis’ even vampire bats all the size of buildings or SUV’s. These beasts are Enormous and they are mutations caused by man years ago. They are the downfall of civilization they are the reason the human race is endangered.
Ellen watched what looked like an alligator eat her mother. Now a year later she goes and rescues people and brings them to a safe haven. On this trip while saving some children she’s captured and taken to meet someone. Chaos ensues literally and she has to make an escape with the kids and those that came to rescue her.
This isn’t an easy world they live in. It really is survival of the fittest and quite possibly the biggest. Even the plants have mutated to give psychotropic drugs to make you feel euphoria so that they may eat them, man eating plants. Thanks to one ecological disaster the planet is irrevocably changed. Birds, bugs you name it the skies are theirs now.
Even in the silo they call home, Ellen is considered a loose cannon and this latest unauthorized excursion has brought unwanted attention on them. The guys from Phoenix have followed them and if they have to fight for survival they will.
However Ellen takes a small party and heads off in a different direction hoping to lure them away from the rest. It works of course but we do finally get to learn what exactly happened. Alchem created a chemical to turn arid deserts to a thriving jungle only it worked too well and the animals, insects and the rest started mutating and becoming enormous.
The governments of the world shut the nodes down with the scientists and everyone inside. They were afraid that they were contaminated and they were right. They used the chemicals on themselves to create a next stage in human evolution that was forced and unnatural. Now they share the planet with humans and the enormous trying to do nothing more than survive.
They went from a world where food and fuel were in short supply to a world where they still had to fight for their very survival. Its cautionary tale at best, a mini-series in comic book form and one heck of a good read. This ‘what could be’ story rivals many that I’ve already seen including made for Syfy movies.
Review: Hoax Hunters #1
We open with a group of renegade Indians trying to steal some horses. A young boy catches them as one of the renegades sneaks up behind him brandishing a knife. Really would he have killed a kid I mean the boy is just a boy and while I know that during this time period the Indians were described as savages, though I know better, I don’t see them just killing a boy. It’s a moot point as the Lone Ranger comes and diffuses the situation.
Upon riding back to their camp and talking to the tribal elders we learn that a horse spirit has been seen and guides them to war. The Ranger asks for time to see this for himself and either disprove or prove their claim, so they agree to hold off war for now. The elder asks if his companion will be joining him, a perfect segue to Tonto.
The dialogue here is utterly fantastic! This is one of the reasons I don’t mind reading anything Chuck writes because he’s always putting out some of the highest quality work I’ve ever seen. The conductor doesn’t know who Tonto is and is treating him with extreme prejudice. When a man leans in and whispers in his ear exactly who Tonto is his attitude does a one hundred eighty degree turn to sweet as sugar. I loved this exchange it was so very well done.
Civilized, yeah if the white man really were at this time they wouldn’t feel the need to impose their will upon those who believe differently. This is the Indians land and the white man are the invaders and yet they consider the indigenous population savages and it’s their duty to civilize them. Pshaw is all I have to say about that.
The Lone Rangers finds the ghost horse but in reality it turns out to be a Camel. Now what on Earth is a camel doing in the wild west in this era? Who would have access to renting out a camel in the first place this seems kind of strange to me but it’s also pretty darn neat too. Considering the Indians have never seen a Camel and to them this is a spirit, an omen to go to war. Now it’s being ridden by a young woman who is an investigative journalist from Chicago trying to make a name for herself. It is also quite evident that she is out of her element completely.
On the train there is a young Indian boy being taken east to Pennsylvania for schooling and to be civilized. The boy is escorted by an “enlightened” white man whose exchange with Tonto is again some of the better dialogue in the book. We also learn some thing important here from the boy, his father is a chief.
Really as the Lone Ranger comes upon a camp and the danger to him and the woman mounts we see the danger to Tonto aboard the train come to a head. We’ll see how things unfold from here next issue.
This is a much more complex and interesting story than I was expecting and it is thoroughly enjoyable and though provoking. Esteve’s art inside seems to be inspired as well. Making this book a standout surprise for the week.
Upon riding back to their camp and talking to the tribal elders we learn that a horse spirit has been seen and guides them to war. The Ranger asks for time to see this for himself and either disprove or prove their claim, so they agree to hold off war for now. The elder asks if his companion will be joining him, a perfect segue to Tonto.
The dialogue here is utterly fantastic! This is one of the reasons I don’t mind reading anything Chuck writes because he’s always putting out some of the highest quality work I’ve ever seen. The conductor doesn’t know who Tonto is and is treating him with extreme prejudice. When a man leans in and whispers in his ear exactly who Tonto is his attitude does a one hundred eighty degree turn to sweet as sugar. I loved this exchange it was so very well done.
Civilized, yeah if the white man really were at this time they wouldn’t feel the need to impose their will upon those who believe differently. This is the Indians land and the white man are the invaders and yet they consider the indigenous population savages and it’s their duty to civilize them. Pshaw is all I have to say about that.
The Lone Rangers finds the ghost horse but in reality it turns out to be a Camel. Now what on Earth is a camel doing in the wild west in this era? Who would have access to renting out a camel in the first place this seems kind of strange to me but it’s also pretty darn neat too. Considering the Indians have never seen a Camel and to them this is a spirit, an omen to go to war. Now it’s being ridden by a young woman who is an investigative journalist from Chicago trying to make a name for herself. It is also quite evident that she is out of her element completely.
On the train there is a young Indian boy being taken east to Pennsylvania for schooling and to be civilized. The boy is escorted by an “enlightened” white man whose exchange with Tonto is again some of the better dialogue in the book. We also learn some thing important here from the boy, his father is a chief.
Really as the Lone Ranger comes upon a camp and the danger to him and the woman mounts we see the danger to Tonto aboard the train come to a head. We’ll see how things unfold from here next issue.
This is a much more complex and interesting story than I was expecting and it is thoroughly enjoyable and though provoking. Esteve’s art inside seems to be inspired as well. Making this book a standout surprise for the week.
Review: Lone Ranger: Snake of Iron #1
We open with a group of renegade Indians trying to steal some horses. A young boy catches them as one of the renegades sneaks up behind him brandishing a knife. Really would he have killed a kid I mean the boy is just a boy and while I know that during this time period the Indians were described as savages, though I know better, I don’t see them just killing a boy. It’s a moot point as the Lone Ranger comes and diffuses the situation.
Upon riding back to their camp and talking to the tribal elders we learn that a horse spirit has been seen and guides them to war. The Ranger asks for time to see this for himself and either disprove or prove their claim, so they agree to hold off war for now. The elder asks if his companion will be joining him, a perfect segue to Tonto.
The dialogue here is utterly fantastic! This is one of the reasons I don’t mind reading anything Chuck writes because he’s always putting out some of the highest quality work I’ve ever seen. The conductor doesn’t know who Tonto is and is treating him with extreme prejudice. When a man leans in and whispers in his ear exactly who Tonto is his attitude does a one hundred eighty degree turn to sweet as sugar. I loved this exchange it was so very well done.
Civilized, yeah if the white man really were at this time they wouldn’t feel the need to impose their will upon those who believe differently. This is the Indians land and the white man are the invaders and yet they consider the indigenous population savages and it’s their duty to civilize them. Pshaw is all I have to say about that.
The Lone Rangers finds the ghost horse but in reality it turns out to be a Camel. Now what on Earth is a camel doing in the wild west in this era? Who would have access to renting out a camel in the first place this seems kind of strange to me but it’s also pretty darn neat too. Considering the Indians have never seen a Camel and to them this is a spirit, an omen to go to war. Now it’s being ridden by a young woman who is an investigative journalist from Chicago trying to make a name for herself. It is also quite evident that she is out of her element completely.
On the train there is a young Indian boy being taken east to Pennsylvania for schooling and to be civilized. The boy is escorted by an “enlightened” white man whose exchange with Tonto is again some of the better dialogue in the book. We also learn some thing important here from the boy, his father is a chief.
Really as the Lone Ranger comes upon a camp and the danger to him and the woman mounts we see the danger to Tonto aboard the train come to a head. We’ll see how things unfold from here next issue.
This is a much more complex and interesting story than I was expecting and it is thoroughly enjoyable and though provoking. Esteve’s art inside seems to be inspired as well. Making this book a standout surprise for the week.
Upon riding back to their camp and talking to the tribal elders we learn that a horse spirit has been seen and guides them to war. The Ranger asks for time to see this for himself and either disprove or prove their claim, so they agree to hold off war for now. The elder asks if his companion will be joining him, a perfect segue to Tonto.
The dialogue here is utterly fantastic! This is one of the reasons I don’t mind reading anything Chuck writes because he’s always putting out some of the highest quality work I’ve ever seen. The conductor doesn’t know who Tonto is and is treating him with extreme prejudice. When a man leans in and whispers in his ear exactly who Tonto is his attitude does a one hundred eighty degree turn to sweet as sugar. I loved this exchange it was so very well done.
Civilized, yeah if the white man really were at this time they wouldn’t feel the need to impose their will upon those who believe differently. This is the Indians land and the white man are the invaders and yet they consider the indigenous population savages and it’s their duty to civilize them. Pshaw is all I have to say about that.
The Lone Rangers finds the ghost horse but in reality it turns out to be a Camel. Now what on Earth is a camel doing in the wild west in this era? Who would have access to renting out a camel in the first place this seems kind of strange to me but it’s also pretty darn neat too. Considering the Indians have never seen a Camel and to them this is a spirit, an omen to go to war. Now it’s being ridden by a young woman who is an investigative journalist from Chicago trying to make a name for herself. It is also quite evident that she is out of her element completely.
On the train there is a young Indian boy being taken east to Pennsylvania for schooling and to be civilized. The boy is escorted by an “enlightened” white man whose exchange with Tonto is again some of the better dialogue in the book. We also learn some thing important here from the boy, his father is a chief.
Really as the Lone Ranger comes upon a camp and the danger to him and the woman mounts we see the danger to Tonto aboard the train come to a head. We’ll see how things unfold from here next issue.
This is a much more complex and interesting story than I was expecting and it is thoroughly enjoyable and though provoking. Esteve’s art inside seems to be inspired as well. Making this book a standout surprise for the week.
Review:Broken Pieces #3
We’re starting to get some real answers here as our patchwork man begins to remember who and what he is or rather was. I like that it’s being pieced together here and there and not all at once but rather as he is experiencing new events. It seems more like a natural thing to have happen rather than convenient.
Richard has also met and made some new friends who seem nonplussed by his appearance. Granted he wants to find his wife and doesn’t have time to spend with these guys the way they would like him too. Though I think circumstances will find him becoming not just allies with these people. After all they have a common enemy in Trinion.
I’m just afraid that his association with these people could them all killed. After all Mr. Ludas has Dr. Adams, Richards wife, working for him and his troops who had their rear ends handed to them have already reported back about being defeated by this monster and that the lab was destroyed.
Poor Richard he has some hard choices to make and he is remembering more and more about who he is and was that he’s having a hard time handling it. Plus he had little Sophie follow him when he was ambushed by Ludas’ men. She better be alright, she’s just a child after all and a cute one at that.
To me this is a modern day futuristic telling of Frankenstein’s monster only it’s harder to tell who the monster here is. I do like that Earth’s atmosphere has been irrevocably damaged and there is no cure in sight. It smacks of things we know of today such as Global Warming and our raping of the natural world. This could be our near future, or at least one possible version of it. I think that is part of the appeal here too that this isn’t as far fetched as one might possibly think.
I’m super impressed with the complexity of the story, the characterization going on and the books pacing. Plus the art is pretty darn good too, complimenting the words nicely. If Aspen can keep this on schedule it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on.
Richard has also met and made some new friends who seem nonplussed by his appearance. Granted he wants to find his wife and doesn’t have time to spend with these guys the way they would like him too. Though I think circumstances will find him becoming not just allies with these people. After all they have a common enemy in Trinion.
I’m just afraid that his association with these people could them all killed. After all Mr. Ludas has Dr. Adams, Richards wife, working for him and his troops who had their rear ends handed to them have already reported back about being defeated by this monster and that the lab was destroyed.
Poor Richard he has some hard choices to make and he is remembering more and more about who he is and was that he’s having a hard time handling it. Plus he had little Sophie follow him when he was ambushed by Ludas’ men. She better be alright, she’s just a child after all and a cute one at that.
To me this is a modern day futuristic telling of Frankenstein’s monster only it’s harder to tell who the monster here is. I do like that Earth’s atmosphere has been irrevocably damaged and there is no cure in sight. It smacks of things we know of today such as Global Warming and our raping of the natural world. This could be our near future, or at least one possible version of it. I think that is part of the appeal here too that this isn’t as far fetched as one might possibly think.
I’m super impressed with the complexity of the story, the characterization going on and the books pacing. Plus the art is pretty darn good too, complimenting the words nicely. If Aspen can keep this on schedule it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on.
Review: Smoke and Mirrors #4
Sleight-of-hand performer Terry Ward has taken on a young protégé name Ethan. But in this world which runs on magic, Ethan had stumbled into a strange experiment by the Trade Circle—an experiment involving cats. Now the head of Trade Circle has taken an interesting in Ethan and Terry’s illusions… and he’s just arrived at Terry’s house, Ethan and Ethan’s mother in tow.
This continues to show Costa’s range as a writer. Granted he has excellent technical help in Armstrong but he’s managed to introduce a mystery with some very interesting characters who continue to grow and evolve with each issue. More than one mystery actually as I’d still like to know how exactly Terry ended up on this world as well as the cat experiments which bonded the one cat to Ethan.
I find myself looking forward to learning the answers to these mysteries and seeing what Terry is going to teach Ethan next. This is a fun series and a very nice departure from the usual cloak and dagger stuff that I know Costa for. Which probably makes it that much more interesting for me, though I think readers will appreciate the plot, the pacing, the characterization and this unique world he’s created, even if they haven’t experienced his previous works.
This continues to show Costa’s range as a writer. Granted he has excellent technical help in Armstrong but he’s managed to introduce a mystery with some very interesting characters who continue to grow and evolve with each issue. More than one mystery actually as I’d still like to know how exactly Terry ended up on this world as well as the cat experiments which bonded the one cat to Ethan.
I find myself looking forward to learning the answers to these mysteries and seeing what Terry is going to teach Ethan next. This is a fun series and a very nice departure from the usual cloak and dagger stuff that I know Costa for. Which probably makes it that much more interesting for me, though I think readers will appreciate the plot, the pacing, the characterization and this unique world he’s created, even if they haven’t experienced his previous works.
Review: The Crow: Death and Rebirth #1
I’ve never seen any of the Crow movies or read any of the previous books so this is all new to me. If all of them are similar to what I’ve read here than I may have to go back, find them and check em out. It’s a shame that IDW only gives out a ten page preview then again it’s pretty smart since now I want to read the entire story.
From what I can gather a bigwig at Bio Trope is somehow able to steal bodies or souls of women so she can stay eternally young or she’s sacrificing her to a demon either way something wicked this way comes. She and her story have piqued my curiosity.
This story takes place in Tokyo. Haruko is the chosen target and she has a fiancé, gaijin, Jamie from the United States. Theirs is a love story with a tragedy inside or at least a horror show’s thrown in. Somehow he is going to find out what is happening and hopefully rescue her. He is training with her father and can be her hero, and he’s already a conspiracy nut and looking over his shoulder so who knows.
So far I think there has been great characterization here. The story has already gripped me as a reader and makes me want to see more. As I’ve said it has this love story slash horror slash thriller aspect to it that is very well done. All around this is going to be a very fun ride.
From what I can gather a bigwig at Bio Trope is somehow able to steal bodies or souls of women so she can stay eternally young or she’s sacrificing her to a demon either way something wicked this way comes. She and her story have piqued my curiosity.
This story takes place in Tokyo. Haruko is the chosen target and she has a fiancé, gaijin, Jamie from the United States. Theirs is a love story with a tragedy inside or at least a horror show’s thrown in. Somehow he is going to find out what is happening and hopefully rescue her. He is training with her father and can be her hero, and he’s already a conspiracy nut and looking over his shoulder so who knows.
So far I think there has been great characterization here. The story has already gripped me as a reader and makes me want to see more. As I’ve said it has this love story slash horror slash thriller aspect to it that is very well done. All around this is going to be a very fun ride.
Review: GI Joe #15
G.I. Joe is in trouble: after Cobra’s invasion of a Southeast Asian country was carried out successfully. G.I. Joe’s budget was slashed, General Hawk was relieved of command, and the existence of the covert unit was revealed to the world at large. Now, Duke steps into the leadership role and plans to get the G.I. Joe team back on its feet.
Scarlett anxious for action after the disappearance of Snake Eyes, leads a mission to disrupt Cobra’s mining operations in South America, but the mission goes quickly awry. Scarlett is captured, and Stalker and his team are forced to work in the mines. Scarlett escapes into the facility, Mainframe sneaks in wearing a Viper disguise, and Stalker and his team decide to make a break for it farther into the mines, in the hopes of finding another way out.
Main’s attempt to save Scarlett doesn’t quite go as planned; this is one woman who needs no rescuing. Instead she’s slightly miffed he stowed away and isn’t part of a larger rescue team. She has to cover his butt now too after all.
Duke has assembled an extraction team, which looking at it seems a bit like overkill to me. Still Scarlett is his most valuable asset I mean the woman is freakin amazing in both tactics and inspiring the troops, not mention her own skills in the field. I do like how they get their fuel and all that stuff I think it’s pretty smart.
Stalker and the boys find the lake and the crystals which have to have some kind of importance I just don’t know what yet. They find explosives and everything they need to make a stand, escape and cripple the mining operation.
I love and hate that IDW only gives me a ten page preview because it’s maddening when you want to see more, but it is seriously more than enough to draw you in and make sure you are picking up the issue. Chuck Dixon has some very mad skills and his writing just keeps getting and better and better. The intricate layers of plot and characterization, the multiple layers of different threads all reaching to a similar conclusion is just amazing.
I like the art it’s pretty darn good, it could be a little cleaner, crisper and more detailed but it is very nice.
Scarlett anxious for action after the disappearance of Snake Eyes, leads a mission to disrupt Cobra’s mining operations in South America, but the mission goes quickly awry. Scarlett is captured, and Stalker and his team are forced to work in the mines. Scarlett escapes into the facility, Mainframe sneaks in wearing a Viper disguise, and Stalker and his team decide to make a break for it farther into the mines, in the hopes of finding another way out.
Main’s attempt to save Scarlett doesn’t quite go as planned; this is one woman who needs no rescuing. Instead she’s slightly miffed he stowed away and isn’t part of a larger rescue team. She has to cover his butt now too after all.
Duke has assembled an extraction team, which looking at it seems a bit like overkill to me. Still Scarlett is his most valuable asset I mean the woman is freakin amazing in both tactics and inspiring the troops, not mention her own skills in the field. I do like how they get their fuel and all that stuff I think it’s pretty smart.
Stalker and the boys find the lake and the crystals which have to have some kind of importance I just don’t know what yet. They find explosives and everything they need to make a stand, escape and cripple the mining operation.
I love and hate that IDW only gives me a ten page preview because it’s maddening when you want to see more, but it is seriously more than enough to draw you in and make sure you are picking up the issue. Chuck Dixon has some very mad skills and his writing just keeps getting and better and better. The intricate layers of plot and characterization, the multiple layers of different threads all reaching to a similar conclusion is just amazing.
I like the art it’s pretty darn good, it could be a little cleaner, crisper and more detailed but it is very nice.
Review: Battle Beasts #1
Interesting a story about humanoid animals who live in warlike society constantly at battle. The specifics of which aren’t revealed as of yet. However we do know that the three stars, a Ram man, a Walrus man and an Eagle man, have quit fighting and now have bounties on their heads. They essentially outlaws now constantly on the run and they a mysterious mission they are on as well.
Because this is a warring society battling takes up much of their time. They are already up against a force out for the bounty on them and they are vastly outnumbered as well. We do see they are hardened warriors whose skills who can more than hold their own.
I liked the narration and characterization that we got throughout the first ten pages. This was actually a lot better than I would have predicted. One of the perks of being a reviewer is finding books such as this that wasn’t on your radar but turns out to be one of the more interesting things to read. Granted it’s going to be a tad on the violent side but the art is simply fantastic and the story so far begs to be read to completion.
I may not have known who the creators of this were before but I can guarantee you I won’t overlook them again.
Because this is a warring society battling takes up much of their time. They are already up against a force out for the bounty on them and they are vastly outnumbered as well. We do see they are hardened warriors whose skills who can more than hold their own.
I liked the narration and characterization that we got throughout the first ten pages. This was actually a lot better than I would have predicted. One of the perks of being a reviewer is finding books such as this that wasn’t on your radar but turns out to be one of the more interesting things to read. Granted it’s going to be a tad on the violent side but the art is simply fantastic and the story so far begs to be read to completion.
I may not have known who the creators of this were before but I can guarantee you I won’t overlook them again.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Renaldo's Reviews: Batman: Earth One, He-Man, The Cape: 1969
Gary Frank’s art, when combined with Geoff Johns, usually depicts immeasurable success. Here, while I expected to be wowed a la JMS/Shane Davis, I felt both creators either hustled down or held back on their delivery because it feels a bit lackluster. Maybe if Nolan’s films were absent from my mind, I could see Johns’ book as fashionable but this dark, bleak and dreary output, steeped in reality, seems a bit too
Friday, July 6, 2012
Renaldo's Reviews: Orchid, Epic Kill, Heart plus more!
Axel Medellin’s art continues Image’s vein of simple yet concise illustrations topped by engrossing story lines. Mike Moreci and Steve Seeley offer up a ScyFy Saturday night plot and while it comes off as fun, there’s too much levity that was unintended and it bogs down the title a bit. Searching for swamp creatures and finding conspiracy theories in their preservation or debunking their rumours, comes off a bit too far-
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Review: Danger Club #3
I love how the retro intro leads directly into the “here and now.”
Review: Epic Kill #3
Upon waking she remembers a sliver of her past, an Uncle who helped train her though we don’t see him yet. Then all hell breaks loose. This part was absolutely incredible Raffaele does a number on the reader here and takes us on two journeys neither of which we were truly
Review: Morning Glories #20
I wasn’t expecting anything that I saw either. Nick did things here that were shocking, expected, jaw dropping and just proved that he is a talent to be reckoned with.
Review: The Boys #68
With only four more issues left things are certainly racing along fast to its natural conclusion. Everything that was started with issue one is being revealed and the surprises keep coming as we learn about each layer of lies that the Butcher has told.
Review: The Green Hornet #26
I’ll be honest I left this series after the first creative team left I felt the quality of the book just wasn’t the same and unfortunately I still feel that way. The writing is okay nothing spectacular though I did feel the issue dragged on too long and that shouldn’t happen.
Review: Kirby: Genesis—Captain Victory #6
Tiger 20 was wounded and had to spend time in his restoration chamber which explains to me how his mind was programmed to turn against and kill Captain Victory. This of course is the easy explanation though it could very well be something else.
Review: The Lone Ranger vol.2 #7
Surprisingly enough we didn’t see the Lone Ranger this issue it focused on Tonto, his acceptance within his tribe, his role as a big brother, husband and father.
Review: Warlord of Mars #19
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
CBNAH Interview: Jeff Parker
CBNAH: What made you want to delve into comics?
Jeff Parker: I always made up stories since childhood, and comics were very powerful to me.
The Amazing Spider-Man Movie Review!
I’ll skip the summary of the movie because you guys already know how the whole Peter Parker tale plays out. I will say this though- this reboot adheres closer to the comics by starting with Pete’s first love in the comics- Gwen Stacy.
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