Been a while...now with comics!

Been a while since I last posted anything. So here's a few random thoughts.

Marvel kills Captain America after throwing good guy against good guy in an attempt to shake of a share of fans, and DC brings back Mr. America. Marvel responds by turning the Hulk red and more zombies covers.

Northlanders was okay. I've been waiting for a Norse/Viking comic for a long time. Thor doesn't count, because my god of thunder and rain doesn't sew dinner plates to his chest. I was excited when I first heard about this comic, but something didn't quite sit well with me after I read the issue. The art is fine, but I think it's the fact that it reads like a modern story (modern cursing included) that just pulls you out of the atmosphere.

Countdown is actually becoming decent now that it isn't mired in all the crossovers it once was. About time DC realized it wasn't working, and it only took them....6 monthes? I really do want Jimmy Olsen to die, and I'm still confused about the rest of the cast.

Arena was interesting, but plese tell me that wasn't our Nightshade from Shadowpact that was disarmed. I liked her as a character in the book, so maybe that's why the book has felt a little off for a while. Interesting abilities and an old school looking costume. It's like they changed outfits to update the characters, but she was one of only 2 or 3 that kept their old outfit (hate Enchantress' current outfit - older one was much better, and Detective Chimp does not need spandex). Figured Red Rain Batman would win since he is, after all, undead. I still don't get Monarch - is he supposed to be written like a mary sue character?

I think Supergirl is finally on the right track. I think that is also a scary thought.

Wonder Woman #14 Review (spoilers!)

Warning, spoilers ahead - fair notice to readers.

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I have been eagerly awaiting this issue ever since I first heard Gail Simone was shifting over as writer. So eager in fact that I started seeing patterns with numbers that didn't have any connection to reality. So gleeful that I actually thanks Dan Didio in person earlier in the year for the move, and we had a brief chat about it (and Amazons Attack, but that's a different story).

So here we are, issue 14 (ruining my numerology).

I first have to say that I really enjoyed the issue. As a baseline it is far above what the title had been suffering through. Heinberg's arch wasn't bad, except where deadlines were concerned. The whole lead into, conflict, and aftermath of Amazons Attacked felt really arbitrary, coerced, and simply pointless. The only good thing I think to come out of it was the resurrection of Hyppolyta, which didn’t require all the bloodshed and mayhem – in character or not.

This new start is the beginning of a new title, but keeping the name. Simone barely gives any nod to the previous 13 issues, in fact only a few plot points are touched upon or carried over. I’m also glad she has kept her sense of wit she had on Birds of Prey.

I’m sure the albino apes will play into the future issues. Can anyone say “gorilla warfare” with the Nazi’s on Paradise Island? You know Simone would consider it. It’s just too good to ignore.

Also, Captain Nazi’s new outfit looks menacing. I sort of miss his old horrible green and yellow outfit, but this new one actually makes him look like a potent foe. Black looks good in an outfit anyway.

The art was fantastic. Nothing much else I can say.

I’m also glad the title will be in sets of four issues per story. That just feels like the right number for any ongoing story arch. Intro, buildup, peak, fallout. It’s also a bit kinder to those jumping into a title after having it suggested.

I feel like maybe I’m cheating myself by giving such glowing remarks on this book, but let’s face it. It’s about time.

Highly recommended.

Still alive!

Yes, I'm still alive. I've been sitting back reading other weblogs, but have not really taken the time to update my own. It's been well over a month and a lot has been going on. So much so I'll do what Kalinara does every one and a while and post things as bullet points.

Comics:

• Supergirl may finally be enjoayble for the quality rather than horidity. She is not fat. We are not being punished. Say hello to anatomy.
• Sinestro Corps is very enjoyable, much more so than Countdown is right now. I wish this to be the actual story of Kyle Rayner when it comes to continuity.
• I hope Countdown picks up speed soon.
• I am starting to really dislike Jimmy Olsen.
• I could care less right now about Donna Troy, Kyle Rayner, Jason Todd, and the Atom.
• I think the Atom is just tagging along for the ride, since he's only there to shrink the group.
• Monitors can't monitor every Monitor?
• Guess that's good and bad, since he's the one Monitor actually doing something. Sadly since they can't watch him none of the others can be inspired to leave the recap at the end of Countdown to act as well.
• Where are the rest of the Anti-Monitors?
• I do however get a kick out of the Trickster and Piper storyline. It's the only one I look forward to.
• Grant Morrison writes good Batman.
• Paul Dini writes great Detective.
• Filler writers are no where near either's quality.
• I'm sad that Conan is ending at 50.
• I'm happy it isn't cancelled. (just a name change/reboot)
• I am envious of Kalinara (and Ragnell) for attending Wizards in Chicago. I almost made it but had to pull out.

Life:

• Greatest Story Ever Told is not dead as was previously stated.
• I had a moment of genius, reworked it, and it does finally work.
• I have nearly 5 pages inked. Takes a while, but I feel good about it.
• My novels are sitting at about 140 pages, I think, splashed across 3 books.
• They are on hold, obviously, but will be finished eventually.
• Book 1 is nearly halfway finished.
• I have yet to hear back on job applications.
• I'm starting to shop around again for employment options.
• I'm not sure who to send my resume to when trying to apply for "Batman"

Tick-Tock.

Countdown issues

Is it just me, or does it feel like the writers of Countdown are not communicating with the other writing teams?

Personally, I find it annoying that the monitors are showing up everywhere with conflicting agendas. Maybe that's on purpose, but it isn't very smooth in any case. Nevermind the obviously inconsistancies with Black Adam.

Personally I would have taken him off the radar for several years, only to make a brief appearance during this new crisis - and then only after his upcoming miniseries. I mean, come on, I would have saved the return of his powerword to be the surprise twist ending of the mini. Here we are, spoiled as a silly plot device. I think it would have been better to bring out Eclipse, rather than have Mary joyride with Black Adam's lightning...

With 52 universes to watch over, the Monitors seem to be overly concerned with this earth. Why are they so worried about this Earth? Is Earth1 the hotspot for the multiverse's spring break and we need additional law enforcement or something?

Still, I can't be totally annoyed with DC over Countdown. I'm just annoyed that they seem to be in perpetual balance over what is good and bad. They let promising titles slide indo mediocrity, while the titles we like to laugh about actually gain promise - and the cycle repeats usually.

Justice League is actually decent now that it is crossing over with an already great title (Justice Society). 52 gave way to Countdown and lacks power, even with the awesome Dini driving it. Donner's Superman has practically vanished, while all-star batman is actually seen a new issue appear. Simone is moving from Birds of Prey to Wonder Woman, to bring that title out of a horrible slump - and hopefully BoP won't fall in quality...

At least I'm happy to say I'm through with Marvel. Only one thing could have tempted me back, but after hearing that DC maybe starting a norse comic I feel safe in saying Thor will not bring me back.

Norse Gods should not wear dinner plates as armor, nor should they be well groomed.

Not so Green

This current arch of Green Lantern has yet to really pull me in like previous stories have. It may still be a bit early in this arch, but after two installments you would think it would at least have a thread to pull you into the story. I have my theories, of course, as to why I'm not enjoying this as much as I probably should.

1) The art.
Being an artist I think I can hold this reason as important. Sure there are artists out there that use one face or one body, changing clothes and hair to make a new person. Afterall, the Earths based Green Lanterns themselves have different masks - Zorro style (hal), ink blot style (kyle), red head (guy), and African American (john). Yes, I know it's not nice to break them down like that, but it appears true to form. There is a lot more diversity in the Corps, but this isn't the Corps title. This is Hal's title, and aside from hair color you wouldn't be able to tell either girl apart.

The other thing I'm not enjoying a whole lot about the art is the painted aspect. Now, I can't be overly harsh since I did like some of the scenes in the previous issue (like inside the jet with the switched land and sky background). This issue, however, didn't have the same feel.

2) I don't care about Star Sapphire.
I've never had any interest in her as a character/villain. This is probably partly due to not knowing the character that well, but after learning the origin of the entity I still don't care much about her. I think this is because she appears one-dimensional. She'll do anything to mate with Hal Jordan. I know plenty of fan girls lust over Hal's rear, but come on. She doesn't need a quick fix by throwing a touch of trajedy or angst, but I think for me to have any interest there needs to be something for me to grasp onto.

Also, and this relates to the art portion of my dislikes, is the fact that the other blue people who appear to be related to the Guardians are far larger than the Guardians. These Oan Amazons, as aluded to in the issue, just don't fit visually. This also leads me to my next reason.

3) Oan Amazons?
Seriously, this is a tie-in to the Amazon Attacks mini if I have ever seen one - and I see a lot that doesn't connect. This likely won't tie in directly, mind you, but isn't it a little obviously timed well with its referencing? Also, isn't the build up very similar in concept? Even the clothing is similar.

On one hand you could probably argue that ideas get repeated through time, or have a tendency to ripple into repitition. It's an easy explination, but it still leaves a bit of creativity to wish for.

In the end, however, I'm still going to finish reading this arch. Geoff Johns is a bit of a trade writer, so you can predict that twists will occur in another issue or two. Maybe then I'll find a chunk of the excitement in this story that I had in the previous arches. Even if I don't I still have the Sinestro Corps to look forward to after this bit.

Review: Brave and the Bold #1

Of the majority of my pull this week, this was the biggest surprise. Given how painfully average comics have been for the past month or so, to pick up something like Brave and the Bold with low expectations was a real reward.

The issue felt and appeared old school. The good kind of old school, like something fell from a lost time when comics were awesome into a space warp, to land into a distant present where it could be picked up like a long lost treasure. Maybe that will sound a bit too glowing, but I felt like being wordy.

Honestly, I would have like higher paper quality. The cover was high quality, why not the pages? Still, the art inside matched well with the writing. I may not be the best judge of writing, but I really liked the art. I think that was the point of who was chosen for the interior and such, and to bring back that whole old school feeling.

I'm a big fan of Batman, and Kalinara made me a fan of Green Lantern a long time ago, so the issue was all around a fun read. Here's hoping when they switch out Bats for Supergirl the writing stays just as consistant - and Supergirl is acceptable outside her own title.

Comic Reviews

1) Spawn #163
It's odd to think this would make my top spot for this week, considering how the majority of the series has felt very 90s. The last 10 issues or so have been slowly getting better in my opinion, and I love the hyper-detail the previous issues have been. Over all, the issue actually wasn't as spectacular as previous issues leading up to this one, but the last few pages really sunk into me.

This is a major spoiler, so go ahead and skip down if you don't care for spoiling. I have to type this, as to justify my choosing this as my #1. Long time readers, and the curious sort will skip around my site to look this up, but I have a soft spot for Al Simmons and his absolute tragedy of being severed from his love. This is the driving force behind the character, and in this issue it looks like it will finally be resolved. Al Simmons chose to bring everyone back alive, and his last act was to give up his God-like (literally) power to become human once again so he can finally live a normal life with Wanda. There will be complications, obviously, but the last few pages of him deciding his fate are a major resolution to about 160 issues of pain and torment.

2) Detective Comics #827
Little can stop the Dini machine from producing some of the best Batman stories I've read, period. Scarface is back, and this time the Ventriloquist is a highly skilled woman. She looks like she was pulled right out of the Animated Series universe too, which I really like. It's also a nice touch that she has a Dr. Blight (from Captain Planet) scar on the side of her face, hidden by her hair, mirroring the broken face of Scarface.

3) JSA Classified #20
This issue, along with the previous issue, was a fun little story with a nice touch of darkness. I made a pun, since this follows Dr. Midnite. I haven't read much of him, but this little two-parter felt good as an intro to the character. I'm sure he's covered better in something else, but this issue felt well concieved as opposed to some of the other issues previously released. I also liked the dark twists of using Ice Maiden's skin, and the effect of the organ rejection. I like pale skin, so I could sort of see the interest in that, but I digress. It wasn't a happy or pleasant end for the girl.

?) Justice League of America #5
This is the second time I've listed this title here. I'm only buying it because the comic shop is taking kind to it's subscribers to this title by allow us to buy the variant covers at cover price. I've been really liking the variants ever since Turner moved off to the main cover (urgh), and having the variants as normal almost makes up for the lack of real substance inbetween the pages.

I'm not liking Reddy one bit, as he is basically the token child/sidekick/comic relief character in my opinion. He's not suppose to be like that, is he? Also, it has taken five issues for the 'main characters' to join up with the 'new main characters'? Way to pad the story for the trade, Meltzer. Now if only the art crew can stop spreading the panels over two pages every other page I could let my eyes enjoy the shifting of reading this comic like almost every other comic should be read...like a book. I'm not against two page spreads, but it really loses the impact when it is over used - go check out the Conan comic, its mostly single pages, but every now and then they toss a double pager in and it is awe-inspiring.

'Red Arrow' is really taken by Hawkgirl, isn't he? I don't blame him, becuase she does look pretty good in those few panels. My problem is that he's acting as if that's the first time he's seen her, and though I'm not familiar with any previous meetings I am pretty sure they have met before - the characters have been around a long time, right? Jeez...that moment felt really out of character and was too sudden considering everything that had happened moments before.

Poor Amazo has no solution for love. I feel for him, as there can't be much of a solution for love the way this flagship title is going. DC, get Meltzer to wrap up his fanfiction and get the writers from the sadly short lived Justice League Unlimited animation to pump some life into this. You'd make so many people happy...

Comic Reviews

1) Green Lantern Corps #7
This is what Collateral Damage wishes it was. This new female lantern is great, not just because of who she is, but because she is a great foil to Guy starting with the few pages she appears. I don't want to gush about how almost all the secondary characters in this title seem thought out well enough to stay original, so I'll move on.

Yes, Guy gets an earworm that makes him bleed - finally a cover containing a scene that actually happens inside the cover. It isn't a big moment, but it's a decent moment.

So the Guardians have a black ops team? I'm game, but don't expect it to stay covert with Guy joining it.
8.5/10

2) Tales of the Unexpected #3
Being a fan of this miniseries and the main character already probably helped this issue get to where it is on this little list. However, I still think it was a strong issue even if it felt more like a 'middle issue' that connects two stories. The main punishment story wrapped up about as nicely as it could have, proving the Spectre isn't really all that mean.

Also, the Dr. 13 story is freaking awesome.
8/10

3) DCU Infinite Holiday Special #1
Honestly, I expected this comic to be terrible. I'm not a big fan of holiday themed material, but the potential is still great for something entertaining - especially if it isn't supposed to be serious. This comic is not serious, and surprised me by how crazy it turned out to be.

Most of the stories are pretty straight forward, but they have enough fun originality to them they are fun to read. The clencher, for me at least, was the final story. To be exact, the final page of the final story. Wow.
7.5/10

?) Justice League of America #4
It was between this and Robin #157, but I felt as odd as Robin was it had enjoyable art. This new JLA reboot, though it has "Starro", really hasn't impressed me all that much. It reads like a trade, and I'm not to fond of the overuse of two page panel spreads. Something about multiple panels broken by staples annoys me I guess.

Anyway, the writing is acceptible in my opinion, but I guess I'm just not all that interested with the side stories. Maybe I don't care about the characters, but frankly the story feels a bit dull.

For the record, I'm enjoying the Transformers: The Animated Movie miniseries a whole lot more. I know that story, and the mini is changing dialogue and abridging the scenes!
4.5/10

Finally a return to reviewing comics

Figures my 100th post would be something as mundane as this, but I have a (new) idea as to get myself to review comics more often (as in, weekly). Three for one! Three shortish reviews of those I felt were good this week, and one I felt wasn't so good. Here goes nothing...

1) Justice Society of America #1
Figures this would be listed in any case, but from my pull I liked it the most. I've waited a while for this thing, and I have to say I really enjoyed this first issue. From this point on I think there is a lot of potential goodness, and I just hope things get carried through in that way.

Mr. America felt like a curveball. To me he looks like Gomez Addams, but wow does he not act like him. I like the little mustache he has, but I'm more wondering where his story will go. Of all the side stories that tie in together, his was the most loose.

I got a kick out of the new Red Tornado and think she'll be fun in that innocent fangirlish way. However, I have a feeling something bad will happen to her - that's just how those characters usually end up. I hope differently though.

The new Starman also was a fun bit to read, but I think my affection for the character is for the same reason I like Bizarro. Not exactly a good thing for a hero to be connected with, but time will tell.
9.5/10

2) Detective Comics #826
This issue was a fun quick read. Quick, because it flowed so well off the paper. Fun, because the Joker goes on a killing spree trying to call the cops to report his hit and runs while he is trying to get to a fastfood place for an eggnog shake. I mean, come on. This is the kind of issue I bet Chris Sims would love to read. I know I did.

Besides, Batman doesn't appear till the very end. It is all Robin and Joker action, and the kid defeats the Joker in a classic move...
9/10

3) Manhunter #26
About time Manhunter returned to the shelves. There is a lot of flashing forward and backward to tie it directly into the "last" issue, but it does work in the end. This is a pretty good setup to what I can pretty well imagine will be only a miniseries of sorts, to check how the sales go for the title. Here's hoping that this issue, tied in with the graphic novel collection of issues 1-5, will make DC think about keeping this thing being printed.

I was really close to sticking Nightwing #127 in this spot, but I felt Manhunter had the small advantage due to my excitement of having it available again. Nightwing was really good this issue around, but the last few issues have all been quality (finally), so there wasn't so much new there. Manhunter had plot and action, and development of the whole story, and besides - her title technically shouldn't be as popular as it is making it all the more great of a comic to be published.
8/10

?) 52 Week Thirty-One
It may just be me, but I think the edge is slowly becoming dull with 52. Maybe they just are not following the arches I like in this issue, but for the first time I found it a little hard to read this issue. I don't really know much about the Captain Comet arch, but his whole story in this issue felt like it was ripped right out of Chronicles of Riddick. I'm sorry, but as one of the few people that enjoyed that movie I have to say this: to rip of that movie in a title as "important" as this comic is degrading to the title.
3/10

Comics!

I feel like I'm really out of the loop, after having to adjust to not using the laptop. Every night I would sit down on the couch with it in hand, reading news sites and weblogs, chatting, and writing. Now, everything feels forced if it happens at all. I'm not used to writing on a desktop - it just isn't as comfortable, you know?

Anyway, this week was pretty average with the exception to two titles. Those being, of course, Catwoman and Birds of Prey. If anything could turn around an expensive day of mediocrity, it would be those two.

First of all, Catwoman has shot up in quality quite consistantly since I began reading it. This issue was probably the best I have read yet, and I place the blame solely on Film Freak. I'm big into film and such, so I really enjoy the antics of him. I also absolutely love the constant homages to old movies - so with last week's Psycho bit and this week's King Kong bit, I am in heaven.

Birds of Prey - Thank you, Gail Simone, for that rip on Frank Miller. I don't know if it was on purpose, but it sure felt that way. I don't like the return of 'classic' Batgirl, but I bet that comes from higher up. It isn't really classic Batgirl, as far as we know, but it is close enough. I am curious about the whole 'getting shot like the original Batgirl, but unaffected' thing going. Two Oracles are too many and silly, so I doubt that'll happen. Maybe this it just a really crazy misleading story to bring back Cassandra Cain. No way that's going to happen, but I can dream.

Also, we need shots of this Guy Gardner film. Have them go see the movie so we can see the movie.

Comics: week of 08.23.2006

Justice League of America #1
So far from just this first issue, and taking #0 into account, it really does feel like this is written for a trade. I'm not sure I like this just yet. On one hand it does make for a good story when they are all pulled together, but on the whole it makes the issue feel broken. It isn't that I dislike Meltzer's writing style, it is just that I wished the issue felt a little more enclosed. I should also note that Turner's cover has Wonder Woman looking a little blown up and Superman looks starved. He draws a good Batman, however.

The story continues from #0 with DC's holy trinity discussing who they think is good enough to join them in the new league. I really like Batman speaking up first for Captain Marvel. There are a lot of reasons why, but my favorite is he can potentially take out Superman if need be.

The story seemed to focus the most on Red Tornado. I suppose he was the member selected to be the binding plot device. Afterall, there is only so much potential angst that can be pulled from the other characters.

People have made comments on not liking Platinum's new look. My take is that she's a robot - a shape changing robot. Who ever is behind the art makes her look how they want. Rivets don't fit her very well, however, I do like the long hair. She seems to be the female half of the robot angst plot, to counter balance Red Tornado's quest for humanity.

Speaking of becoming human, I think it's not such a good thing for Red to become human. Still, I bet Deadman will find the outcome of self sacrifice this time around interesting. I like Deadman, but he seemed rather pushy. Wait, was that really him or an illusion by the bad guys? It wasn't very clear...

I have really taken a liking to Green Arrow these last few months. It feels like they are breaking tradition by not seeking him out this early, but I have to admit it was fun to see him pushed off to the side as a babysitter. It sort of sets the tone that this new Justice League will be the league handed down to the next generation, like how the Teen Titans has become.

I'm rather neutral to the story so far. It is focusing on characters I know little about, which will help me learn about the characters. The problem is what I have read isn't snagging my interest very much.

The biggest thing about this issue that I hate is the 'bonus' this issue of the written pages of Meltzer's upcoming book. Words cannot full explain why this does not belong in the comic. I didn't read them, because frankly I was completely turned off when I discovered what they had slipped in.
7/10

Batman #656
I had problems with the issue before this one, because of continuity issues I was unsure of that prevented me from really enjoying that issue. Those have been cleared up now, and I can really get into this issue.

The visual play in this issue is amazing. I loved the Lichtenstein references everywhere, which were made ever greater by ninja man-bats. I think this issue was created for Chris Sims in mind, and anyone else that likes over the top craziness. Very enjoyable.
8/10

Batman and the Mad Monk #1
I vote that Batman and the Monster Men be accepted as canon, and seeing as how this looks like a direct follow up I will likely be viewed the same way. This issue felt like it was mostly a transition issue, following characters from the last arch and laying the groundwork for this new story.

Needless to say it felt very much like classic Batman, and I'm curious as to where this will go. I also really like the art style, which is always a bonus.
8/10

Wonder Woman #2
About time this came out. I was starting to worry a little if it was ever going to continue this year. I'm enjoying the title so far, but Robin looked really off model.

After introducing Nemesis last issue I would have liked a little more of him in the issue as backup, but then again he isn't the one who the comic is named for.
7.5/10

Xena #2
Issue 2 of the title, and the title is still rather good. In fact, the banter between the characters was enjoyable this go around. The flow also feels very much in line with the show. It may also help that Bruce Campbell's character has more focus in this issue.

The art is still rather decent though there are moments where mouths don't quite look right, but that is a minor point. I'm enjoying this title.
7.5/10

Supergirl #9
Oh dear. Do you hear that? That is the sound of respect being broken like a worn out Bruce Wayne over the knee of Bane. Seriously, this single issue has turned Supergirl into a character I don't like very much into a character I absolutely loath. What happened anyway? Did DC finally decide to drive off every reader?

First of all the last plot arch was wrapped up like someone thought it would be ok to just jump to a new story. No ending, just a horrible jump cut with occasional random flashbacks that explain nothing. Oh yeah, and the 'current' story involves Supergirl acting like a whore and stealing Superboy's iconic shirt. No respect for the chief casualty of Infinite Crisis.

There is still potential for Wonder Girl to flip out completely and beat the crap out of Supergirl. It'd be awesome if Power Girl joined in too. I think that would be the best way to end this title. Maybe then Supergirl's bones will heal in a way that will put her back into a more typical body shape.
3/10

Comics - Aug 2006, week 3!

Figured I should go back to talking about comics at some point, and I'm a little off track from the last few weeks.

Catwoman #58 - Check out that cover. They went from an awesome Lone Wolf and Cub homage to this sexed-up Wheel of Fortune mess. I'm fairly impartial to Zatanna - I don't mind her in a story, but usually she seems very much like a background character. That cover puts her up front, and her costume looks several sizes too small. After a string of great covers, this one is such a miss.

Enough about the cover. The story is a good cap to the recent plot arch. Zatanna still feels like a background character despite her importance to the issue, but it is probably her reluctance to do anything seriously dangerous to fulfill Selina's request. I like how Angle Man retells his past, and how it shows how he has slipped into a low rate villain. Also, Black Mask is dead according to this comic, and not alive as shown in the Man-Bat miniseries (guess which one I am thinking is canon).

The best part, in my opinion, is the way Film Freak 'confesses' his crimes. Not how he interprets the command as crimes against cinema, but the freaking amazing Psycho homage. That made my week. 8.5/10

Street Fighter Legends: Sakura #1 - This came out of nowhere, but it did do for my fix of Street Fighter this month as I wait anxiously for the title to catch up on its release dates.

Firstly, Sakura isn't my favorite character from the series. Despite that, I do know she has the ability to be a fun connection to multiple characters in the franchise - as shown in this issue. She's an upbeat character, and always has been. This issue is fun.

If that isn't enough: This issue has Dan Hibiki and Rainbow Mika. Zangief also towers over everything he's around, but is relegated to comic relief. It also is stuffed with inside jokes and game references. The only thing that set me off a little in this issue was the hyperness of Sakura. I can't blame the writer for that, it's in character. I eagerly look forward to the next issue. 9/10

Manhunter #25 - I'm so glad this isn't the last of Manhunter, but we have to wait till December for more. I wonder if it will just come back as a group of miniseries to be sold whenever. I hope not, but whatever happens happens.

I was really curious as to how they were going to wrap up the Sweeny Todd story line. They built him up to be overly powerful, but they was he was taken out makes comic book sense. Things seemed to wrap up nicely in this issue, and could have easily been accepted as an ending to the title. I especially liked the twist at the very end. 7.5/10

Nightwing #123 - I was surprised with this issue. With the load of crap that has been released recently, this issue was rather decent. Relatively decent, of course. There were still many moments where it was rough, such as my dislike of the two brothers. Speaking of which, why did one of them suddenly develop a temper? Oh well, Dan Didio said things will turn around starting with #125.

What I did like seeing in this issue was Dick finally talking about what happened between him and Barbara way back when he broke things off with her. I thought that little moment of angst was handled well, all things considered. 5.5/10

Shadowpact #4 - Stand alone issue with Blue Devil? I'm game, and it read well. I really lied the two demons speaking in a way to make themselves sound superior, and them taking care of the dragon thing for Blue. 7/10

Poor Booster. He deserved better, but at least he went out with a bang.

Xena #1 - Reviewed

Ever since I saw the ad for the new Xena comic in Battlestar Galactica #0 I have been curious. Knowing it is being published by the same company that currently publishes Red Sonja I worried if it will be taken seriously, or if it will copy the same formula of 'barely dressed warrior woman' with black hair. Finally the first issue was released, and I picked it up. As I have done before I'll review it in two halves, first art then writing.

There are three main covers to #1. I'm not a big fan of many covers per issue, because if they are all equal rarity what's the point? The covers for the first issue are not terrible, but they do seem to lean towards different readers. There is a photo cover, which I think would be for non-comic fans to notice. The other two covers are drawn, and in my opinion one is far better than the other.

The one I don't like so much is the one used in ads for the release, the Billy Tan cover, which is Xena seemingly in combat throwing her chakram. Her face has the high cheek bones that Lucy Lawless has, and with the detailed armor screams the lead Xena. My problem I have is that for all the attention to detail, her chest is huge. Xena's chest does not balloon into and out of her armor. It is distracting and is not what makes her Xena.

The other cover is a very nice collection of characters in the issue, including Gabrielle, Joxer, Zeus, and Ares. Everyone looks like how they should (chest sizes and muscles look correct), and it is balanced. Xena is the biggest on the page, but the placement of the others give them the standing the characters should have - the title is Xena, but she isn't the only character. This is the cover you should look for if you look for the issue.

Enough about the covers, they are there only to draw your eye and try to sell the issue. The real meat is inside, and I can honestly say that the majority of the art inside is good. With the exception of a few panels, it looks like the team that worked inside actually looked at the cast and put forth the effort to translate them to the pages.

There is, however, a two page spread that introduces Xena and Gab that kind of hits you an odd way. It's their grand appearance and they are charging into battle with their torsos arched upwards as if their chests extend a magical shield of deflection. It isn't terrible, but it looks strange. I know it is probably trying to denote their are holding their heads high and they are confident going into battle, but most people I've seen that charge into battle keep their posture low. Approaching low is tactically sound, because you want to protect your critical areas. I could go on, but I digress from the real point. The line art is fairly good, and the characters look like the actual characters. The coloring is also good and really brings the art to life.

The writing is also fairly good. I personally think some of the joking Xena and Gab make in battle falls a little flat, but it doesn't ruin the issue. In the show there were moments of silliness, and it didn't always work in my mind. It's just my opinion, and others will disagree. What it does do is give the new reader and understanding of the kind of relationship Xena and Gab have, and in that respect it works.

The actual plot is paced fairly well in the issue, and felt like a quick read. I won't spoil the story here, but I will say it at least has potential. Many familiar faces are gathering or make appearences in the issue, so the setting is established quickly. There is also a well played twist ending, which will really shift things around.

The biggest drawback to the issue, and for the title in general, is the price tag. At $3.50 the comic is a bit pricey for what it is, and does not make it worth buying each cover unless you are hardcore about the title.

As for the worries about the title? For the first issue things are looking good, and I'll be picking this up for this arch. I also recomend it to anyone who has felt that feeling of 'wanting to look, but are too unsure to touch' that happens with new comics.

Comics!

Last two weeks have been rough, so theres my excuse for skipping the reviews last week. This week, I have little excuse to post something.

Batman #655 - Morrison writing, right? Should be good, right? In my opinion this issue is fairly good, but one thing bugs me. The main story in this issue deals with plot that contradicts what is going on with the Man-Bat miniseries. Maybe the mini is out of the canon storyline, or maybe Morrison didn't have the same notes to work from.

Aside from that the issue was fun to read. Morrison is aware that Batman had given up his playboy image for a long time. Bruce Wayne has to retrain himself to become a fun loving guy again, and Alfred has to keep reminding him to lose his growl. 7.5/10

Action Comics #841 - I want to like Busiek's Superman, but his run so far feels very "long." What I mean is that the issue drags along, and I think it is from so much text to read through. It's good writing, I'll grant it that, but sometimes it feels like it is a bit too much. I like the concepts of the robotic intergalactic auctioneers, and it serves as an interesting background. Sadly, that's all it really feels like. 7.5/10

Birds of Prey #96 - First I have to say I like Black Alice. She's just one of those characters that doesn't get enough panel time to become a favorite, but I like it when she shows up. Aside from that there is a good dose of character work in this issue, and what I think is the only nod to Ted Kord since Countdown to Infinite Crisis. Also, that bit about Ted Kord is really well done and should be one of the selling points of the issue. The rest, im simply biased towards, thanks to Black Alice. 8/10

Supergirl #8 - Everything from the OYL arch is finally starting to make sense. Just be warned, as fun as the cover makes this issue appear, Powergirl and Supergirl do not actually battle it out. 7/10

Nightwing #122 - Stuff happens, but if you've been reading this arch you pretty much know how this has been going. Still, I suppose watching Jason Todd going Tetsuo at the end was interesting (as interesting as anything can be right now in the title). 6/10

Blue Beetle #5 - The story is still building, and it is still holding my interest. The villains so far are interesting, which makes it fun. 7.5/10

The Spectre #3 - The acceptance and conclusion of the miniseries. This story wraps up nicely in the 3rd issue, unlike other minis (Battle for Bludhaven, for example). The twist ending isn't unpredictible, but it does hit hard. 7.5/10

52 #12 - Still on schedule, still going strong. Insane Captain Marvel is a lot of fun. 7.5/10

Comics! cont.

Superman #654 - The dynamic of Clark and Lois was central in the issue, and I don't remember it being so well handled. Superman was sidelined, and it worked. Electrified Popcorn, science police, and giant villain that talks too much. I'm really curious about Lana taking over Lexcorp. Though it was well written, the issue felt really long. 7/10

Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #208 - Part two is on equal grounds as part one. It's not exceptional, but it isn't terrible. The art is realistic enough to hold your interest generally, though sometimes it doesn't quite work. Specifically, I don't like how the Penguin looks. I'm a fan of the 'human' Penguin, not the creepy looking one. I also don't like his entry into the strip club business - It's just not him. However, I do like the story being told. It feels slightly reused, but so far it works. It has a very dark feel. I would go so far as to call it a gothic tale, and that is only helped by many stylistic choices with the art. I will admit that this story is a bit rough to get through. 6/10

Thunderbolts #104 - This is only the second issue I've read of the series, since I'm only reading it for the Civil War tie-in. I still have no idea what is really happening, but I do understand that this Zemo guy is gaining control over the supervillains to form a 3rd party in this whole Civil War mess. There is the possibility that Zemo holds the key to the tide of the war, depending which side he fights alongside more. Also, I'm not fond of a vast majority of Marvel villains. 6/10

Civil War: Frontline #3 - Opps, there goes another neighborhood. That can't be good for the side against the registration. Also, the Baxter Building has potentially the longest escalator, making me wonder if an elivator would have been quicker. Even if it was quicker, Reed wouldn't have had the extra time to keep talking. Multiple storylines make it a little jumpy, but they are seperated into chapters. She-Hulk has another case that isn't cooperating, who is also in total denial of any wrong doing. Still wondering why they haven't nailed him with trespassing. I mean come on, they were. 6.5/10

whew.

Comics!

Transformers: Infiltration #6 - The grand finale to this arch was just as I great as I thought it was going to be, and I'm glad I stayed through till the end. The Autobots appear absolutely helpless, and the Decepticons are at the brink of internal war. Two things to note are Megatron looks to be a tank, and Optimus Prime shows up right on que. There's going to be a break before the next arch begins, called "Escalation" - so you can figure out what will potentially happen. I still wish they'd only have like two different covers, like their other Transformer titles. 8.5/10

Street Fighter II #4 - Holy crap issue four is finally out. It has only taken since the begining of the year for another issue to appear. So was the wait worth it? I have a solid SF bias, so I'd say yes. Gen is featured heavily, as is "Akuma" (I really wish they'd use Gouki), which makes the issue interesting. Gen doesn't get a lot of background outside this comic, so everything helps. The story focuses almost entirely on the background of Gen and Akuma, about their original battle and their rematch. Main: 8.5/10

The backup story deals with Cammy and the rest of Delta Red, mainly about trust issues and such. It is simple and straight forward, and doesn't do anything to advance the main plot. It is interesting, however, and I like the style. Backup: 7.5/10

Green Lantern #12 - It's been a long time since Cyborg Superman had a little action, and it was fun. He even has apparently been taught by the Borg and can use nanobots to control biologicals. Also, figures that Guy gets stuck into a giant Manhunter with all the fun of a parasitic metaphor. 8.5/10

Quickies

Green Lantern Corps #2 - Royal intrigue, galactic lantern fanboy prince, and Mogo. I'm really interested in where this is going. Also, no way in hell Soranik is dead. 8/10

52: Week Ten - Ten weeks and still on schedule. Clark Kent is awesome, and "Supernova" reminds me of Dr. Light. 7.5/10

Green Arrow #64 - Surprise ending! Also, lots of witty banter and Deathstroke has a killer plan in the works. 7.5/10

Tomorrow I'll have more thoughts and numbers...

Comics! - Finally!

Yes, I have comics and they have been read. Not many came out from my selections, but I figure some things are worth talking about. Here are a few reviews, now with bold!

OMAC #1 - OMAC Project was interesting enough for me to get into the current Checkmate ongoing series, which I really like right now. However, with time I have drifted away from the idea of OMAC, and I'll admit I sort of skipped over the story in Brave New World. Now the question is begged of what I thought of this issue.

Personally, I didn't feel much happened. A single OMAC still exists and Brother Eye apparently still exists, and OMAC is being called "home" by Eye. Despite the lack of progress the story really flowed well. I'm still curious about this mini, and I have a sneaking suspision they may turn OMAC into a sort of Robocop type character - driven by protocol, nearly unstopable to carry out the law, and torn by the human aspect when making descisions. 7.5/10

Detective Comics #821 - Paul Dini writing Batman is good. Finally a single solid issue. No arching plot. One fully contained mystery that gets resolved in classic Batman style. I love it. Not much else I can say about this issue, except that I would think it would be a great starting point for the new reader.

Two things about the issue I'm not too fond of. One is petty, the other is odd. First off, I think the cover art is odd due to the way the cowl is drawn on Batman. It looks like Batman has no neck and the eye holes are huge. The petty bit is the massive 8 page ad in the center for that Dew competition. It's absurd, and who in their right mind would really read the whole thing? I barely notice ads in comics because I want to read the story. I notice ads like those because I become frustrated not being able to switch back into reading mode. It's jarring and takes me out of the story, like an infomertial in the middle of a television show. Still, I guess they could get away with including something like that considering the story. 8/10

JSA #87 - I didn't even know the title was ending on this issue. The fact that it did is upsetting, mainly since it didn't feel like it needed to end. Characters were still missing, and there was no reason to end except that the brownstone was demolished in battle.

JLA dissolved because they couldn't make ammends with each other, they went their seperate ways to cool off. Breaking up - it's a good reason to end a title. JSA didn't break up, in fact it looked like they became closer knit - not a good reason to end a title. To me, it looks like they are rebooting the title becuase they are rebooting everything else. Can't a single group title survive Infinite Crisis? I mean, come on, there has to be some continuity between preIC and postIC, and why not the group of heroes who pretty much personify legacy?

Oh well, my biggest complaint was that the title ended in more of a pop-fizz than a bang. Gent Ghost felt in the end felt like a generic bad guy bent only acting like a villain-of-the-day. No extreme struggle in which lives were honestly threatened. Ghost threatened their lives, but they were never in real danger. Besides, Wildcat gets a real shining moment, and that was fun to read. 6/10

Transformers: Evolution#1: Hearts of Steel - Long title, but I like the concept of the title. Basically think of it as an ongoing Elseworld title based on Transformers. This first story arch puts them in the Industrial Revolution, with John Henry and Mark Twain. In the begining with the story background all the transformers are like dinosaurs and dragons and stuff. Later when they reawaken, Bumblebee turns into steam engine and shockwave appears as an ironclad ship. So far I'm really liking this title, because it is essentially extreme bizarro Transformers, and that is awesome. 9/10

Quickies!

52: Week Nine - It's not Galactus, and more Question! 7/10

Batman: Secrets #5 - I've really liked the insanity spun by this miniseries, and the ending is just as nicely twisted as the rest of the run. 8/10

Teen Titans #37 - Doom Patrol exposed, Kid Devil and Ravager are become pretty interesting, and I didn't especially enjoy the ending. 5/10

Supergirl #7 - Supergirl is manic, Powergirl is awesome, and once again the ending left me scratching my head in a bad way. 5.5/10

Secret Six #2 - I think I have to reread Villains United and the special, becuase I don't remember some of this, still, the plot is very nice and twisted. 7/10

Conan and the Songs of the Dead #1 - Most hardcore and potentially offensive issue of DH's Conan yet, and it still reads like classic Conan. Not for kids! 7.5/10

That's it for this week. I like this review style, so look forward to it being the standard now (allows me to focus on the issues I liked, as shoot through the rest of what I have read).

Comics and stuffs

FInally made it through the majority of Wed's pull. Been busy, but here's a few thoughts of selected issues.

52 - Seven weeks and still on schedule, and probably the best issue so far. Ralph is hardcore, and I like that. He seems to be taking the place of the serious "Batman" type character. Since I like Batman, I think that's why I'm liking Ralph. He's intense, he's smart, and he has a vengeful streak going. Booster's fun, but this was going to happen eventually. I don't think he deserved the thrashing he recieved from Ralph concerning Sue, but it will probably make Booster rethink his position a little.

Now the name 'Kate Kane' makes sense, instead of 'Kathy Kane.' As much as I like her in this little introduction, I can't help that her lesbianism maybe nothing more than an excuse to connect her to Renee. I don't mind this too much, becuase it would be a bit offensive to read her flaunting the fact for no reason (and living up to the sensationalism the media spun up). From this issue at least the character gets my approval, and I welcome her into the DCU. Maybe this will change when she takes up the mantle of the bat, but she's off to a good start.

Also, two things to mention quickly. Needs more Question. I like the fact that he has started this whole web of interconnection from the warehouse to Kate for Renee to uncover (and us). Second, is that Galactus chucking a spear at the Lost in Space party? Holy crap that was sudden, and confusing.

Shadowpact #2 - After my initial opinion of the first issue, the second issue has flipped my opinion. The group seems to be closer to their DoV time, though they are not quite there. The villains are a lot of fun as they interact with the Shadowpact, and I like them as they notice how similar the two groups are. I'm mostly enjoying the title now.

Flash #1 - I don't know a lot of the background of Flash, but I'm interested in the title as of this issue. It didn't feel as good as Wonder Woman #1, but I think that was because I don't know as much that is going on right now.

Conan #29 - Very fun issue. I'd think this may be a good jump in point for people who haven't read the series before. It's a new story arch with a few loose ends that look wrapped up, but Conan is very much in character. You can really see Mignola's influence, and it is lovely. In fact, most issues up to this point have felt thick like a real short story, but this issue felt like a quick read.

JSA Classified #13 - Good little battle of wills. Great conclusion. Savage is really the Hannibal Lector of the DCU it seems.

Wonder Woman #1 - thoughts

I've had a little bit of internet trouble, so maybe I have rode out the fear of spoilers. If not here's your warning: Spoilers Ahead.

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First of all, within the first few pages I'll admit I was a bit worried. Donna Troy has been a very bland character in what I have read, but I admit my exposure has only really been the bits since her 'Return' prior Infinite Crisis. She simply had no presence in my mind and could have just as easily not been in the story without any serious impact. Now she has taken over as Wonder Woman for now, and I like her.

I really like the armor she's wearing, and the look fits. It reminds me of Xena stylistically, and to me that's a good thing. I hope Diana keeps the armor when she is given the title back. The new look is part of the new Wonder Woman - it's a new chapter in her story. Kind of like Robin's new suit in the new chapter of Batman.

My only problem with the new look? Donna suffers from one of these three things: 1)Static built from friction with the air as she flies, 2) Low density causing her to exist in the air as a normal person would in a liquid, or, 3) Magical shampoo giving her extreme volume. Personally the way her hair flows about her head just seems silly. It is petty to whine about it, but take that as a good thing.

As far as the writing? No problems in my mind. In fact, the little flashback and narrative parts gave background a new reader like me need to feel like I was still in the story. I've read a little Wonder Woman before, but I'm still a little lost when it comes to details of that chunk of the DCU. (For example, to show my ignorance, I have no idea what this purple healing beam that I keep hearing about is)

Dr. Psycho went psycho with a razor. I miss his crazy hair, partly becuase my hair tends to act similarly to his when it isn't kept back (though mine is longer now). I like that Cheetah is human again, it gives an unsettling element to the character.

In my mind, when Diana comes on scene finally, it shows that she is still on her path to discover who she really is. This current arch will help her watch Donna as Wonder Woman, and help her reflect on what her role was. I think this would have been better during the OYL void, but we wouldn't have been able to watch first hand. At the end of this arch I'm quite sure Diana will regain her old role as Wonder Woman.

Anyway, those are a few thoughts I had. If I were to grade the issue, I'd easily give it a solid 10/10.

Battlestar Galactica #0

I figured this issue needed some special attention. I am a big fan of the current series, eagerly awaiting season 3, and find the original a fun distraction. When I found out about this comic several months ago from a random news post I became a little excited about it, but I didn't give it much thought. I figured it was too big of a title to really pull off considering how tight and complicated the show is.

Last week I read that issue 0 was coming out this week, and once again I became excited. Then I read the publisher was Dynamite Entertainment. I haven't bought comics from them before, but I've heard things. I flipped through Red Sonja early on hoping for a female version of Conan given the history, but what I saw wasn't pretty. I don't know about the writing, but the art seemed solely on showing her body off. Maybe that's what the series is about, but it turned me off of the title.

Behold, a highly critical review.

First off, check the cover out. I mean the drawn one, not the photo. Photo covers I don't mind, as it automatically catches a new reader's eye. The drawn cover sums up basically the show, especially the second season. Can you identify everyone? Baltar is drawn and colored pretty well, capturing his madness as it should. Adama is the old guy with glasses in the center, also easy to identify but not quite looking like him. Starbuck essentially looks like herself, but her face looks like a formula drawn face with the 'Starbuck' pieces tagged on.

Now ask yourself, who is that woman in the red dress holding the arrow? Someone walking up to the shelf will hopefully connect her with the photo cover, but if not you have to rely on show knowledge to know who she is. She's the Cylon that Baltar is obsessed with, Six. Well, at least one of her model. At least that's what I think, because if you think about it that woman looks almost nothing like her aside from her hair color. Again, the face looks like a standard woman face in comics, and a lot like Starbuck if you ignore the different coloring (also, eyebrows are thinner but that could simply be simplifying for distance). Her hair is the wrong style, and the pose just doesn't look 'Sixish' enough. But hey, you know she's sexy because her red dress is transparent, and that's what Six is all about, right?

Ok, enough complaining about the cover. Covers are there to sell the comic, and are often by a different artist. The inside of the comic is what really matters. I have to admit I've put off reading this issue since I picked it up. Reason? The art, again.

I knew who Roslin was solely by the situations she was in. She looks nothing like her, aside from her clothes and hair. She looks much younger and her mannerisms seem unlike her. Adama is still the old guy with glasses, and still looking kind of like him.

Later when they show Starbuck, she looks like she does on cover and seems a bit more endowed than the actress in the show. She doesn't really do a whole lot till the end of the issue, but she looks very much like a standard 'leading lady' drawing (like Roslin) with various distinguishing attributes. Dualla is the same way as well, and she looks very little like her actress aside from pulled back hair.

I don't know if Apollo was in the issue or not, or Tigh for that matter, though Apollo is spoken to over communications. I actually had to really force myself to sit down and read the issue, since I couldn't casually get past the art.

The writing was actually decent in my opinion, and captured the character's speaking habits pretty well. The plot is basically the standard "people we knew that are dead are actually alive!" and bring back Dualla's brother (whom I never knew about prior) and most predictably Zak (Apollo's brother, Adama's dead son, and Starbuck's former love). However, they do put a spin on the idea by having the crew of the Galactica knowing the people are dead and doing the datamining to uncover the death records.

Another slightly positive aspect of the issue is that as bad as the art may register in my mind, they nail the ship designs and space shots. My only complaint with the art in that area is that, well, flames do not vent into space when a ship is on fire. Simple physics of fire requiring fuel, and space not being kind to that fuel - something about it being a vaccuum.

My overall feelings about this particular issue? I'd give it a 3/10 for now, and another shot to see how they go with this type of story. However, I am not going to get all excited over the multiple covers (unless they are really well done).

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One interesting thing that I noticed in the issue is that Dynamite is also rebooting Xena as a comic. I'll check that out as well when it comes out. I'm a little disappointed that she is completely out of proportion in the preview art. Her chest is not that big, in fact I remember it being rather 'normal' size (her armor just stands out from decoratons). However, it does bring up the returned possibility of the Wonder Woman vs Xena comic that Kalinara mentioned.