So, I am terribly behind on reviews. I have made 3 trips to the comic shop since the last comic reviews I have written. This gives me 66 comics to review (65 read,one not so much read). I also still have the Sinestro Corps War stuff to go back and read, now that I have found access to the issue I was missing. Also have the Resurrection of Ra's Al Ghul and Messiah Complex stuff. So, what I am saying is...lots of crap to read.
I think, to keep my sanity and prevent boredom from all that writing, I will do spot reviews of the issues from my 65 read that stood out enough to warrant a response. Hopefully this weekend.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
My First Comics
This article about the first comics of many current comic creators is an interesting read. There have been a few other people on my Livejournal friends list who have posted their own comic firsts. So, now it is time for mine.
The first comics I distinctly remember reading are all kind of a jumble. I remember a handful of comics from my childhood. Having read them all so long ago, i had to do a quick search to find the exact issues.
Going by the timeline, then, my first Marvel comic was Fantastic Four #272. Which, really, is kind of cool. First partial appearance of Reed's Dad. Who turned out to be all kinds of different characters (Kang, Immortus, Rama-Tut, etc.).
The comic I always though of as my first was Uncanny X-Men #208. I remember it blowing my mind. Nimrod, Hellfire Club, Rachel Summers being attacked by Wolverine, Rogue stealing Colossus' powers (which, I now hear is considered impossible). This was heavy stuff for a 7-year old.
Also at the same time as that was Web Of Spider-Man #17. This also blew my mind. I mean, Spider-man may have died to a guy in a spiked suit who can shoot freaking lava out of his hands. That's pretty hardcore, there.
Turns out, though, that the other Spider-Man issue I remember reading early on was actually predating that one. Web of Spider-Man #15 is one I remember reading, but remember nothing about.
My first DC comic was apparently Action Comics #533. Though, I remember Detective Comics #527 somewhat better. Funny to think that a guy who doesn't read Superman and is more of a Marvel guy to begin with got his start at the ripe old age of 3 on a Superman story. Actually, that makes sense. I was too young to actually read the earliest comics I had, so the ones I remember best are the ones I was able to read myself, and therefore those are the ones I was more drawn to at an older age.
The sad thing is that my first comic to get me to actually start collecting and reading was this one. A decade after my actual first comics, I was hooked by that.
The first comics I distinctly remember reading are all kind of a jumble. I remember a handful of comics from my childhood. Having read them all so long ago, i had to do a quick search to find the exact issues.
Going by the timeline, then, my first Marvel comic was Fantastic Four #272. Which, really, is kind of cool. First partial appearance of Reed's Dad. Who turned out to be all kinds of different characters (Kang, Immortus, Rama-Tut, etc.).
The comic I always though of as my first was Uncanny X-Men #208. I remember it blowing my mind. Nimrod, Hellfire Club, Rachel Summers being attacked by Wolverine, Rogue stealing Colossus' powers (which, I now hear is considered impossible). This was heavy stuff for a 7-year old.
Also at the same time as that was Web Of Spider-Man #17. This also blew my mind. I mean, Spider-man may have died to a guy in a spiked suit who can shoot freaking lava out of his hands. That's pretty hardcore, there.
Turns out, though, that the other Spider-Man issue I remember reading early on was actually predating that one. Web of Spider-Man #15 is one I remember reading, but remember nothing about.
My first DC comic was apparently Action Comics #533. Though, I remember Detective Comics #527 somewhat better. Funny to think that a guy who doesn't read Superman and is more of a Marvel guy to begin with got his start at the ripe old age of 3 on a Superman story. Actually, that makes sense. I was too young to actually read the earliest comics I had, so the ones I remember best are the ones I was able to read myself, and therefore those are the ones I was more drawn to at an older age.
The sad thing is that my first comic to get me to actually start collecting and reading was this one. A decade after my actual first comics, I was hooked by that.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Checking In
Just a quick update to say that I do plan on returning with some reviews soon. Just a bit busy with work and school. I do currently have 2 large bags of comics. One bag is read, one is yet to be read. Also a large stack of trades I should review as well as a less large but still impressive stack of trades that need reading.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Brief
Pretty much just a filler post here, to get something new on here while I try to read my recent comics purchases.
I thought I would talk about my ritual of comic reading/buying. Every time I go to get my comics, whether it has only been a week or it has been three months, I always do the same general pattern of behavior.
First, upon entering the comic shop, I place my bag at the side of the counter. This is a hold out from when they were more strict on the no backpack policy. They have not mentioned that I needed to do it for a few years, and I don't think I have ever seen anyone else drop off their bag. I still do, though. Just seems to be best not to invite suspicion.
Next, I wander through the trades. Starting with the new trade table right inside the door, moving through the Marvel section (starting with Ultimate stuff, then X-Men, then alphabetical from there), the DC, the Neil Gaiman/Garth Ennis/Grant Morrison/Warren Ellis sections, then finally reaching the "Whatever is cool this week" and everything else trades. Frequently I will either pick a couple (as many as 4 on a trip) or mentally make notes for which ones I should track down later. Some of these mental notes turn into which comics I choose to try to read online to see if I enjoy enough to buy later.
Next, I make my way to the actual singles. There is a full all of shelves for these, with six rows of comics.I start at the front upper shelf (nearest the counter) and scan down to the end, then back again on the next shelf down, until i have scanned every title on the racks that particular visit. If something catches my eye, i will grab it. I also try to keep track of which issue si see that I should be getting in my pull list, as well as the ones I remember enjoying that I may not have added to the list yet. This is sometimes difficult, as my comic shop is good at pulling comics that tie in with something I read to add to my list, on the off chance I will want it. But, sometimes they only do that for a single issue of a new series so I have to remember to grab later issues or keep them in mind in case they issue may or may not have been pulled a second time. I have also had a couple visits where the comics from last week were late to this location but were on time at the second shop I visit (more of a game store with a small selection of comics). So, have to remember which one s I bought last week at the other store.
After this process, which usually takes around 20-45 minutes, I head back to the trades I looked at but did not grab yet. I agonize over which ones I want this time, if any. Many times recently this has been me wanting one, and choosing to wait. Some rare visits this also leads me to the back issue boxes. That only happens if I remembered my lengthy list of comics I need to fill out collections. That happens once every 2 to 3 months (more often if there was a recent miniseries I missed something from).
Finally, I go up to the counter, get my comics from my box, and buy the large pile. This runs me anywhere from $20 to $120 depending on the week and delay between visits. Because I am weak willed when it comes to dropping comics.
After this, i walk the half mile to the other comics/game store where i pick up any issues that I missed at the last store, due to forgetting or lack of stock. I also tend to pick up some sort of roleplaying game or card game at this time.
Then, off to the mall nearby to sort.
My sorting process involves me taking the huge stack of comics and dividing it into three piles. I have Marvel, DC, and Anything Else. Starting with the Anything Else pile, further dividing by specific publisher. Then I divide that stack further by which issues I am most interested in, placing the least interesting issues on top (still sorted by publisher). This takes a while, as some of the comics I like the most are from different publishers. I also try to place any series that is new to me toward the top.
Next, I sort the DC comics. I place the all ages books first on this pile, then any limited series, and then the regular ongoing. Sometimes I will slip a limited series in with the ongoings if it is particularly good. All of these are sorted by worth as above, then placed with the Anything Else comics.
Finally, I get to the Marvel comics. Again, all ages books first, then limited series (within the standard Marvel Universe), then regular ongoing series, then Ultimate line books, and finally MAX books. Occasionally, I will place an event comics at the end of the queue if it is really good (Annihilation: Conquest had that for 4 issues). Once more, they are all sorted by personal merit within their sub-groupings and placed with the rest.
What I end up with is a pile of comics starting with my least anticipated or most unsure of non-Marvel/non-DC comics on top, with progressively more interesting books sorted by publisher and sub-grouping further down until I get to the "best" Marvel book as the last comic I read.
After all of this, I grab some food, possibly watch a movie, and head home to read everything. As I read it, i review it. So, the order you see the reviews is the order in which I lace the comics on the pile. In this way, you can see the value I place on each series by where it is in the order of things on this page.
You can also see how terribly OCD I seem to be when it comes to my comics buying and reading. This pattern of behavior has been ongoing for about 5 years now with the only changes being the amount I spend and the layout of the stores themselves.
I thought I would talk about my ritual of comic reading/buying. Every time I go to get my comics, whether it has only been a week or it has been three months, I always do the same general pattern of behavior.
First, upon entering the comic shop, I place my bag at the side of the counter. This is a hold out from when they were more strict on the no backpack policy. They have not mentioned that I needed to do it for a few years, and I don't think I have ever seen anyone else drop off their bag. I still do, though. Just seems to be best not to invite suspicion.
Next, I wander through the trades. Starting with the new trade table right inside the door, moving through the Marvel section (starting with Ultimate stuff, then X-Men, then alphabetical from there), the DC, the Neil Gaiman/Garth Ennis/Grant Morrison/Warren Ellis sections, then finally reaching the "Whatever is cool this week" and everything else trades. Frequently I will either pick a couple (as many as 4 on a trip) or mentally make notes for which ones I should track down later. Some of these mental notes turn into which comics I choose to try to read online to see if I enjoy enough to buy later.
Next, I make my way to the actual singles. There is a full all of shelves for these, with six rows of comics.I start at the front upper shelf (nearest the counter) and scan down to the end, then back again on the next shelf down, until i have scanned every title on the racks that particular visit. If something catches my eye, i will grab it. I also try to keep track of which issue si see that I should be getting in my pull list, as well as the ones I remember enjoying that I may not have added to the list yet. This is sometimes difficult, as my comic shop is good at pulling comics that tie in with something I read to add to my list, on the off chance I will want it. But, sometimes they only do that for a single issue of a new series so I have to remember to grab later issues or keep them in mind in case they issue may or may not have been pulled a second time. I have also had a couple visits where the comics from last week were late to this location but were on time at the second shop I visit (more of a game store with a small selection of comics). So, have to remember which one s I bought last week at the other store.
After this process, which usually takes around 20-45 minutes, I head back to the trades I looked at but did not grab yet. I agonize over which ones I want this time, if any. Many times recently this has been me wanting one, and choosing to wait. Some rare visits this also leads me to the back issue boxes. That only happens if I remembered my lengthy list of comics I need to fill out collections. That happens once every 2 to 3 months (more often if there was a recent miniseries I missed something from).
Finally, I go up to the counter, get my comics from my box, and buy the large pile. This runs me anywhere from $20 to $120 depending on the week and delay between visits. Because I am weak willed when it comes to dropping comics.
After this, i walk the half mile to the other comics/game store where i pick up any issues that I missed at the last store, due to forgetting or lack of stock. I also tend to pick up some sort of roleplaying game or card game at this time.
Then, off to the mall nearby to sort.
My sorting process involves me taking the huge stack of comics and dividing it into three piles. I have Marvel, DC, and Anything Else. Starting with the Anything Else pile, further dividing by specific publisher. Then I divide that stack further by which issues I am most interested in, placing the least interesting issues on top (still sorted by publisher). This takes a while, as some of the comics I like the most are from different publishers. I also try to place any series that is new to me toward the top.
Next, I sort the DC comics. I place the all ages books first on this pile, then any limited series, and then the regular ongoing. Sometimes I will slip a limited series in with the ongoings if it is particularly good. All of these are sorted by worth as above, then placed with the Anything Else comics.
Finally, I get to the Marvel comics. Again, all ages books first, then limited series (within the standard Marvel Universe), then regular ongoing series, then Ultimate line books, and finally MAX books. Occasionally, I will place an event comics at the end of the queue if it is really good (Annihilation: Conquest had that for 4 issues). Once more, they are all sorted by personal merit within their sub-groupings and placed with the rest.
What I end up with is a pile of comics starting with my least anticipated or most unsure of non-Marvel/non-DC comics on top, with progressively more interesting books sorted by publisher and sub-grouping further down until I get to the "best" Marvel book as the last comic I read.
After all of this, I grab some food, possibly watch a movie, and head home to read everything. As I read it, i review it. So, the order you see the reviews is the order in which I lace the comics on the pile. In this way, you can see the value I place on each series by where it is in the order of things on this page.
You can also see how terribly OCD I seem to be when it comes to my comics buying and reading. This pattern of behavior has been ongoing for about 5 years now with the only changes being the amount I spend and the layout of the stores themselves.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Something New
First of all, no comics for a little while (again). I am starting up college again, and had to spend what free money I had to pay tuition. Goodbye tax return.
Anyhow, I have just started a project which I have had stewing in my brain since December of 2005. A little comic project.
That's right humble (non-)readers, I am attempting to write a comic book series of my own. partially because I had the idea, which works best as a comic (or animated series). Partially because, dammit, I want to write a comic book. So, I startted to rough something out tonight. Nothing too fancy or great yet. Just a bit of establishing text and an openign scene.
It is slow going for me, as I am completely unfamiliar with the script format. I am much more of a short story or poetry guy, so attempting to write in a way that is comfortable while still managing to end up as a comic script is proving difficult. I have hope, though. Having read the Eisner books, the McCloud books, and Peter Davids book on comics (as well as browsing a small handfull of actual comic scripts and looking into a couple more books on the subject that are more for writers than artists) I feel that I have enough of a basic foundation to start working.
I would like this to eventually become more than just a fun diversion. Once i have something more solid down of paper (or computer as the case may be) I will probably start shopping around for an artist so this thing can be submitted somewhere for publishing. If needs be, I will just self publish somehow. That, however, is not anywhere near happening just yet. Right now, I experiment and practice.
Anyhow, I have just started a project which I have had stewing in my brain since December of 2005. A little comic project.
That's right humble (non-)readers, I am attempting to write a comic book series of my own. partially because I had the idea, which works best as a comic (or animated series). Partially because, dammit, I want to write a comic book. So, I startted to rough something out tonight. Nothing too fancy or great yet. Just a bit of establishing text and an openign scene.
It is slow going for me, as I am completely unfamiliar with the script format. I am much more of a short story or poetry guy, so attempting to write in a way that is comfortable while still managing to end up as a comic script is proving difficult. I have hope, though. Having read the Eisner books, the McCloud books, and Peter Davids book on comics (as well as browsing a small handfull of actual comic scripts and looking into a couple more books on the subject that are more for writers than artists) I feel that I have enough of a basic foundation to start working.
I would like this to eventually become more than just a fun diversion. Once i have something more solid down of paper (or computer as the case may be) I will probably start shopping around for an artist so this thing can be submitted somewhere for publishing. If needs be, I will just self publish somehow. That, however, is not anywhere near happening just yet. Right now, I experiment and practice.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Timely
Here we are, last weeks entry into my longbox.
Crossing Midnight #15: That was an odd twist in there. I liked the three levels of protection, with the wall of truth being a form of protection. The origin of the strange abilities the twins carry was unexpected, and awesome. I know there are only going to be about three more issues, and I am sad to see the series go. At the same time, it will be good to have some actual closure on the story.
Fables #70: The Farm is given a great deal, with very little in the way of a negative to it. I loved how they are all worried about going home and losing television and ipods. I'm sorry to see Blue lose his shot with Rose Red. I have been in his position one time too many, so I know the feeling. His response is the one I have wanted to have, but never managed to muster. Next issue, war were declared.
Jack of the Fables #20: Somehow, Jack managed to win in this one. He got the gold. He got Babe. He got the trifecta. He also got a kick to the junk, but we can all agree he deserved that. As usual, superb comics reading here.
Teen Titans Go! #52: Totally cool. Introduction of four "new" heroes, with a great explanation as to where they came from and why they seem so derivative of better characters. Plus, the reveal being yet another mainstream DCU character who deserves more attention.
Crime Bible: Five Lessons of Blood #5: The end of this series, and it is a pretty predictable one. Not to say that's bad, it is just very obvious this is where it was leading. The real shock was not where it led, it was that it ended in the death of the "bad guy." Frequently, these sorts of stories end with submission, not death. Quite good.
Shadowpact #22: So glad this story is over with. Sort of sad to see a character go (especially one that wasn't Zauriel), but if that's what I need to take to end this arc I will take it. Next issue's cover shows Blur Devil. hopefully he rejoins the team. I want more of the feel of the series from the start back.
Teen Titans #56: Poor Kid Devil. He makes a bad deal to be like his hero, is nearing the end of his contract, has seen what he becomes when that happens, and is losing everyone to Blue Beetle. Then there's the party. Really not the best situation to be in. Then, to top all of that, just as he thinks he may have made a friend, the guy turns on him and he gets his ass beat.
Marvel Adventures: Iron Man #10: How sad is it that the first thing I did when i got this issue was flip to the back to see the Mini Marvels. Which was disappointing, as I had already read that one. The issue itself was decent, with some Spider-Woman and some Chameleon. Decent story, with a sudden ending.
Marvel Adventures: Fantastic Four #33: Poor Ben Grimm. Trying to tell a story and having Human Torch heckle him. Then the kids put him so far down their list of who is the strongest. All he wants is a bit of respect. Lucky for him, Abomination proves to be a decent enough foe to bump him up. Just not quite enough, though. Hehe.
House of M Avengers #5: Everyone gets what they deserve. Nothing more need be said. Well...except that Black Cat changing her clothes in front of everybody sort of stood out to me as a bit unnecessary. Pandering at its worst.
Young Avengers Presents: Hulking: Wow, this one was very touching. Eddie meets his father, for the first time. Captain Marvel, to his credit, takes it rather well. He does run at first, but comes back and they have a nice talk. Then end got me a little choked up.
Thunderbolts: International Incident: Kind of crap. Only good bit was Arnim Zola.
Captain America #35: Yeah, the shit has hit the fan. Tony Stark is in trouble for the rogue SHIELD agents. Red Skull has gained a very strong grip on America. Bucky as Cap is still badass. Sharon Carter is totally not doing well, and it is looking worse and worse.
Ultimate Fantastic Four #51: The Ultimate Shit is hitting the Ultimate fan here. The cube is taken by Thanos, and that's never good. Beyond that, nothing more need be said.
Ultimate Spider-Man #119: Liz freaks out about her being aflame and flies off. Iceman and Spider-Man try to catch her and calm her down. She switches abruptly from fear and confusion to joy over her freedom. Then Magneto shows up.
Crossing Midnight #15: That was an odd twist in there. I liked the three levels of protection, with the wall of truth being a form of protection. The origin of the strange abilities the twins carry was unexpected, and awesome. I know there are only going to be about three more issues, and I am sad to see the series go. At the same time, it will be good to have some actual closure on the story.
Fables #70: The Farm is given a great deal, with very little in the way of a negative to it. I loved how they are all worried about going home and losing television and ipods. I'm sorry to see Blue lose his shot with Rose Red. I have been in his position one time too many, so I know the feeling. His response is the one I have wanted to have, but never managed to muster. Next issue, war were declared.
Jack of the Fables #20: Somehow, Jack managed to win in this one. He got the gold. He got Babe. He got the trifecta. He also got a kick to the junk, but we can all agree he deserved that. As usual, superb comics reading here.
Teen Titans Go! #52: Totally cool. Introduction of four "new" heroes, with a great explanation as to where they came from and why they seem so derivative of better characters. Plus, the reveal being yet another mainstream DCU character who deserves more attention.
Crime Bible: Five Lessons of Blood #5: The end of this series, and it is a pretty predictable one. Not to say that's bad, it is just very obvious this is where it was leading. The real shock was not where it led, it was that it ended in the death of the "bad guy." Frequently, these sorts of stories end with submission, not death. Quite good.
Shadowpact #22: So glad this story is over with. Sort of sad to see a character go (especially one that wasn't Zauriel), but if that's what I need to take to end this arc I will take it. Next issue's cover shows Blur Devil. hopefully he rejoins the team. I want more of the feel of the series from the start back.
Teen Titans #56: Poor Kid Devil. He makes a bad deal to be like his hero, is nearing the end of his contract, has seen what he becomes when that happens, and is losing everyone to Blue Beetle. Then there's the party. Really not the best situation to be in. Then, to top all of that, just as he thinks he may have made a friend, the guy turns on him and he gets his ass beat.
Marvel Adventures: Iron Man #10: How sad is it that the first thing I did when i got this issue was flip to the back to see the Mini Marvels. Which was disappointing, as I had already read that one. The issue itself was decent, with some Spider-Woman and some Chameleon. Decent story, with a sudden ending.
Marvel Adventures: Fantastic Four #33: Poor Ben Grimm. Trying to tell a story and having Human Torch heckle him. Then the kids put him so far down their list of who is the strongest. All he wants is a bit of respect. Lucky for him, Abomination proves to be a decent enough foe to bump him up. Just not quite enough, though. Hehe.
House of M Avengers #5: Everyone gets what they deserve. Nothing more need be said. Well...except that Black Cat changing her clothes in front of everybody sort of stood out to me as a bit unnecessary. Pandering at its worst.
Young Avengers Presents: Hulking: Wow, this one was very touching. Eddie meets his father, for the first time. Captain Marvel, to his credit, takes it rather well. He does run at first, but comes back and they have a nice talk. Then end got me a little choked up.
Thunderbolts: International Incident: Kind of crap. Only good bit was Arnim Zola.
Captain America #35: Yeah, the shit has hit the fan. Tony Stark is in trouble for the rogue SHIELD agents. Red Skull has gained a very strong grip on America. Bucky as Cap is still badass. Sharon Carter is totally not doing well, and it is looking worse and worse.
Ultimate Fantastic Four #51: The Ultimate Shit is hitting the Ultimate fan here. The cube is taken by Thanos, and that's never good. Beyond that, nothing more need be said.
Ultimate Spider-Man #119: Liz freaks out about her being aflame and flies off. Iceman and Spider-Man try to catch her and calm her down. She switches abruptly from fear and confusion to joy over her freedom. Then Magneto shows up.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Like a Ton of Bricks
Since I actually have this weeks comics this week, I figure I should read and review the rest of my backlog to get caught up.
Justice League Unlimited #42: This was a sad story. Queen seemed to be trying to get her life together, but everyone else was against her. Wonder Woman made a bit of effort to help, but it couldn't outweigh Green Lantern's dickery or the Royal Flush Gang's tenacity. The ending was at least somewhat upbeat.
Tiny Titans #1: Perfection in a small package. I love everything about this comic. The cute artwork. The references to the regular DCU. The short format of the stories. I think this is by far the best thing I have read in an all-ages comic in forever. If Marvel would repackage their Mini Marvels stuff in this sort of format (as they are pretty much the same thing, just one page at a time), I would buy that as well. And all would be right with the world.
Infinity Inc. #6: As it was in my box, and I didn't want to be a dick about them pulling it and then not buying it, I bought this issue. The last one i get. The cover of this was misleading. the "guest star" eluded to, being Batman, shows up on one page to basically talk with Superman about a crime and then neither is heard from again. It's not even a direct relation to the main characters, just a random crime that ties in with the story. Vaguely interesting lead in to a new arc, but not enough to get me to come back.
The Flash #237: A good issue, but also dropped from my list. I drop this not due to lack of quality, as with the Infinity Inc debacle, but because I just don't feel like spending money on it. Not totally sure why, as it is quite a good book. This issue was fun with Wally and the Kids having some good lines. *shrug*
Batman Detective Comics #841: What a clever idea, and with a great twist as well. The interior artwork was sort of iffy to me, but the cover was made of awesome. I loved how it took Batman a while to solve the case because it was so out of character for Hatter to be acting the way he was. Glad to have this one back from the crossover (which I have not yet read, but own the issues for).
Booster Gold #0: Fun concept. Fun comic. The "Zero Hour" issue of the series, showing the origin of Booster. I liked that he had the chance to change his life for the better, and chose to take the harder road to make sure Ted remained alive. I also love the crazy logic of time travel in this one. Almost makes sense, almost hurts your head. Good end, also.
The Spirit #13 & 14: The Holiday Special was ok. Three stories, each one ok. The first story dealt with criminals in disguise and a tiger tamer. It wasn't to bad, and had a good ending. The second, about a family treasure was also ok with a fun ending. The best, though, was the final story that was virtually word free. That one was a great use of images to tell the story, and something I think Eisner would be proud of. The other issue was the first one with the new team. A fun story, with an interesting mystery involved. Good writing, and lovely artwork. Mike Ploog is one of my favorite artists out there, and it is nice to see him working on his mentor's character.
Teen Titans Year One #2: Another good issue. Less funny than the first one, but still quite a decent story so far. I like the reasoning behind the team getting together, and the way the characters interact. Plus, Aqualad is one of the best loser heroes ever.
Simon Dark #5: I still have no idea what the hell is going on in this series, but I love it. It was very sad about kitty, and the way Simon didn't quite understand that he was special with the not dying by losing your head thing. The best part was wishboning the villain, and the following panel of laughter. It seems like we may be getting a bit more explanation coming up soon-ish. I hope so. Enough to not be quite as lost, without giving it all away just yet.
marvel Adventures: Hulk #8: The Defenders. Surfer is a pansy. Strange is an ineffectual leader. Namor is a dick. Hulk kicks ass. Rick and Monkey are Rick and Monkey. The Nameless One's dialogue with itself was finny at first, then tiresome. At least there was Mini Marvels.
Marvel Adventures: Fantastic Four #32: A very fun story about Ben Grimm and time travel. Old West meets sci-fi. Nothing more needs be said.
Marvel Adventures: Spider-Man #36: A so-so story about Harry Osborne trying to live up to his dad's expectations. Redeemed by the redemption of Harry himself.
Marvel Adventures: The Avengers #21: Crimson Dynamo and Black Widow are both after Iron Man, for different reasons. Not a bad story, and well written as well. The artwork is beautiful. The comic manages to show a sexy Black Widow without being so sexy as to endanger the all ages rating. A hard balance to find. I love Spider-Man whining about the training and how Giant Girl and Hulk were allowed to opt out.
House of M Avengers #3 & 4: Punisher selling out humanity and then redeeming himself. Luke Cage being Luke Cage. Thunderbird being an absolute dick. Kingpin being Kingpin. Black Cat being Black Cat (and dying for it). All leading up to a final confrontation, which leads into the long past House of M. S'ok.
X-Force #1: I dunno. I love the art, most of the time. I love the characters. The story seems decent. I hate the concept, though. I like it when X-Men don't kill, and don't like Cyclops having a black-ops wetwork kind of team. Will probably keep reading, though. It was a fun read.
Runaways #29: Not a bad read. If it was actually coming out on time, I would likely enjoy it more. Thankfully Whedon's run is ending after one more issue. He has done a total of one story arc, and it has taken him forever to do so. Very disappointing. I dislike that he can get away with it, because he's Joss Whedon. I dislike that enough that I can't even remember enough of the issue to review properly. Hopefully the next team will keep an actual schedule (or the book is cancelled until Vaughn decides to return).
The Mighty Avengers #8 & 9: The exact opposite of Whedon, here's Mark Bagley helping to catch this title up after Cho slowed it down. He saves what Bendis is ruining with his stupid thought balloons. We finally see how the symbiote plague was ended, and where it came from. We also get a confrontation with Doom, which is always nice. In fact, we get the most kick ass splash pages of fighting since Nextwave #11. That's not something that is easy to accomplish. Loved the last few pages, with the retro feel.
New Avengers #38 & Annual #2: We see the Hood breach Dr. Strange's defenses and take the Avengers on at their home. Big fight ensues. Strange saves them, but not in a way he is happy with. He leaves the team, and they lose their base of operations. Also, Luke Cage and Jessica Jones look like they are losing their marriage. Which is crappy, especially in the wake of Spider-man's One More Day debacle. I want one solid marriage with characters I like to remain intact.
The Man Called Nova #1: The first Nova annual. An interesting look at his past and future, which may or may not be true. Also, Kvch, homeworld of the Phalanx. Next issue of this will (finally) be what I have been waiting for.
The Order #8: Getting close to eh end, and we have a stellar issue. Good action, good exposition, good background info. This will be one helluva series when it is all over with.
Avengers: The Initiative #9: This is why you don't mess with clones. Or alien tech. And never both together. Taskmaster is pretty cool in this one, both in his using the training to expand his own base of skills and his knowledge of when to bow out of a fight. Gauntlet coma-walking to get more alien tech for a big showdown. This is still one of the best series on the shelves today.
X-Factor #28: A slightly confusing issue, as I missed the whole Messiah Complex crossover (missing one issue in the middle, so can't read it yet). I know enough of what is going on to not be totally lost. Sad to see Rhane go, but it will likely make for a good story for the rest of the team to deal with her leaving. Tattoo Maddrox is pretty hardcore. Strong Guy is still one of my favorite underused characters in the X-Books.
Captain America #34: We have a new Cap. Finally. He's also pretty good. I loved how they managed to highlight the similarities and differences between Caps in a single fight. I also actually felt bad for Tony Stark by the end of this one. Not an easy task anymore.
The Immortal Iron Fist: Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death: A nice bit of back story for the late Iron Fist. I really want more stories about him and his Confederates of the Curious. This was a nice slice of that, showing the many encounters they had with John Aman. A nice villain/hero thing that turned into mutual respect and eventually a sort of friendship. Goo lead in to the next issue of the Iron Fist series.
Annihilation: Conquest #4: Adam Warlock may be an actual warlock now? Ronan the Accuser has a Phalanx-proof army of robots? Star Lord is fucked, as usual? High Evolutionary may have joined the bad guys? Talk about a suspenseful issue. I need more, now.
Terror Inc. #5: Meh. I read it all. It's over. Funny line at the end. Otherwise, meh.
Ultimate Human #2: More interesting than the last issue. We get some action. We get a cured Hulk. We get more insight into why Hulk is the way he is, and how powerful he just might be. Then the shit hits the fan. Actually looking forward the the next one.
Ultimates 3 #3: Wow, mid scene SPLASH PAGE FIGHT, with no real lead in or resolution. It just sort of happens. I don't know if I should blame Loeb's writing, Madureira's layouts, or the editor for not making it get fixed. Then, for no reason, the story changes focus. At least it is going to be over soon.
Ultimate Iron Man 2 #3: Made of awesome. We get some nice mental chess between three different characters, plus a "How's he gonna get out of this one" ending. With one issue left, I am almost sad it's gone by so fast. I wonder if there will be an Ultimate Iron Man 3.
Ultimate Spider-Man #118: Peter almost has an aneurysm at school. Hilarity ensues. I like Kong a lot in these last few issues. I also like that Liz Allen's hate of mutants is really blossoming into something interesting. Not the Firestar I was expecting.
Ultimate X-Men #90 & 91: Ultimate Apocalypse. Taking what was an interesting story arc with Sinister, and expanding it to show he's not actually as crazy as he seemed. In top of that, the way it has all pretty much been building to this moment over Kirkman's run is beautiful. Apocalypse himself is much scarier than his 616 counterpart already. Even if he looks a little stupid before cyborging out. Best part was seeing how Wolverine got to the physical state he was in when he was Cable. Didn't expect to see that so soon, or ever. I wish I had the rest of this arc to read right now. I don't feel that way often, especially with this series.
Justice League Unlimited #42: This was a sad story. Queen seemed to be trying to get her life together, but everyone else was against her. Wonder Woman made a bit of effort to help, but it couldn't outweigh Green Lantern's dickery or the Royal Flush Gang's tenacity. The ending was at least somewhat upbeat.
Tiny Titans #1: Perfection in a small package. I love everything about this comic. The cute artwork. The references to the regular DCU. The short format of the stories. I think this is by far the best thing I have read in an all-ages comic in forever. If Marvel would repackage their Mini Marvels stuff in this sort of format (as they are pretty much the same thing, just one page at a time), I would buy that as well. And all would be right with the world.
Infinity Inc. #6: As it was in my box, and I didn't want to be a dick about them pulling it and then not buying it, I bought this issue. The last one i get. The cover of this was misleading. the "guest star" eluded to, being Batman, shows up on one page to basically talk with Superman about a crime and then neither is heard from again. It's not even a direct relation to the main characters, just a random crime that ties in with the story. Vaguely interesting lead in to a new arc, but not enough to get me to come back.
The Flash #237: A good issue, but also dropped from my list. I drop this not due to lack of quality, as with the Infinity Inc debacle, but because I just don't feel like spending money on it. Not totally sure why, as it is quite a good book. This issue was fun with Wally and the Kids having some good lines. *shrug*
Batman Detective Comics #841: What a clever idea, and with a great twist as well. The interior artwork was sort of iffy to me, but the cover was made of awesome. I loved how it took Batman a while to solve the case because it was so out of character for Hatter to be acting the way he was. Glad to have this one back from the crossover (which I have not yet read, but own the issues for).
Booster Gold #0: Fun concept. Fun comic. The "Zero Hour" issue of the series, showing the origin of Booster. I liked that he had the chance to change his life for the better, and chose to take the harder road to make sure Ted remained alive. I also love the crazy logic of time travel in this one. Almost makes sense, almost hurts your head. Good end, also.
The Spirit #13 & 14: The Holiday Special was ok. Three stories, each one ok. The first story dealt with criminals in disguise and a tiger tamer. It wasn't to bad, and had a good ending. The second, about a family treasure was also ok with a fun ending. The best, though, was the final story that was virtually word free. That one was a great use of images to tell the story, and something I think Eisner would be proud of. The other issue was the first one with the new team. A fun story, with an interesting mystery involved. Good writing, and lovely artwork. Mike Ploog is one of my favorite artists out there, and it is nice to see him working on his mentor's character.
Teen Titans Year One #2: Another good issue. Less funny than the first one, but still quite a decent story so far. I like the reasoning behind the team getting together, and the way the characters interact. Plus, Aqualad is one of the best loser heroes ever.
Simon Dark #5: I still have no idea what the hell is going on in this series, but I love it. It was very sad about kitty, and the way Simon didn't quite understand that he was special with the not dying by losing your head thing. The best part was wishboning the villain, and the following panel of laughter. It seems like we may be getting a bit more explanation coming up soon-ish. I hope so. Enough to not be quite as lost, without giving it all away just yet.
marvel Adventures: Hulk #8: The Defenders. Surfer is a pansy. Strange is an ineffectual leader. Namor is a dick. Hulk kicks ass. Rick and Monkey are Rick and Monkey. The Nameless One's dialogue with itself was finny at first, then tiresome. At least there was Mini Marvels.
Marvel Adventures: Fantastic Four #32: A very fun story about Ben Grimm and time travel. Old West meets sci-fi. Nothing more needs be said.
Marvel Adventures: Spider-Man #36: A so-so story about Harry Osborne trying to live up to his dad's expectations. Redeemed by the redemption of Harry himself.
Marvel Adventures: The Avengers #21: Crimson Dynamo and Black Widow are both after Iron Man, for different reasons. Not a bad story, and well written as well. The artwork is beautiful. The comic manages to show a sexy Black Widow without being so sexy as to endanger the all ages rating. A hard balance to find. I love Spider-Man whining about the training and how Giant Girl and Hulk were allowed to opt out.
House of M Avengers #3 & 4: Punisher selling out humanity and then redeeming himself. Luke Cage being Luke Cage. Thunderbird being an absolute dick. Kingpin being Kingpin. Black Cat being Black Cat (and dying for it). All leading up to a final confrontation, which leads into the long past House of M. S'ok.
X-Force #1: I dunno. I love the art, most of the time. I love the characters. The story seems decent. I hate the concept, though. I like it when X-Men don't kill, and don't like Cyclops having a black-ops wetwork kind of team. Will probably keep reading, though. It was a fun read.
Runaways #29: Not a bad read. If it was actually coming out on time, I would likely enjoy it more. Thankfully Whedon's run is ending after one more issue. He has done a total of one story arc, and it has taken him forever to do so. Very disappointing. I dislike that he can get away with it, because he's Joss Whedon. I dislike that enough that I can't even remember enough of the issue to review properly. Hopefully the next team will keep an actual schedule (or the book is cancelled until Vaughn decides to return).
The Mighty Avengers #8 & 9: The exact opposite of Whedon, here's Mark Bagley helping to catch this title up after Cho slowed it down. He saves what Bendis is ruining with his stupid thought balloons. We finally see how the symbiote plague was ended, and where it came from. We also get a confrontation with Doom, which is always nice. In fact, we get the most kick ass splash pages of fighting since Nextwave #11. That's not something that is easy to accomplish. Loved the last few pages, with the retro feel.
New Avengers #38 & Annual #2: We see the Hood breach Dr. Strange's defenses and take the Avengers on at their home. Big fight ensues. Strange saves them, but not in a way he is happy with. He leaves the team, and they lose their base of operations. Also, Luke Cage and Jessica Jones look like they are losing their marriage. Which is crappy, especially in the wake of Spider-man's One More Day debacle. I want one solid marriage with characters I like to remain intact.
The Man Called Nova #1: The first Nova annual. An interesting look at his past and future, which may or may not be true. Also, Kvch, homeworld of the Phalanx. Next issue of this will (finally) be what I have been waiting for.
The Order #8: Getting close to eh end, and we have a stellar issue. Good action, good exposition, good background info. This will be one helluva series when it is all over with.
Avengers: The Initiative #9: This is why you don't mess with clones. Or alien tech. And never both together. Taskmaster is pretty cool in this one, both in his using the training to expand his own base of skills and his knowledge of when to bow out of a fight. Gauntlet coma-walking to get more alien tech for a big showdown. This is still one of the best series on the shelves today.
X-Factor #28: A slightly confusing issue, as I missed the whole Messiah Complex crossover (missing one issue in the middle, so can't read it yet). I know enough of what is going on to not be totally lost. Sad to see Rhane go, but it will likely make for a good story for the rest of the team to deal with her leaving. Tattoo Maddrox is pretty hardcore. Strong Guy is still one of my favorite underused characters in the X-Books.
Captain America #34: We have a new Cap. Finally. He's also pretty good. I loved how they managed to highlight the similarities and differences between Caps in a single fight. I also actually felt bad for Tony Stark by the end of this one. Not an easy task anymore.
The Immortal Iron Fist: Orson Randall and the Green Mist of Death: A nice bit of back story for the late Iron Fist. I really want more stories about him and his Confederates of the Curious. This was a nice slice of that, showing the many encounters they had with John Aman. A nice villain/hero thing that turned into mutual respect and eventually a sort of friendship. Goo lead in to the next issue of the Iron Fist series.
Annihilation: Conquest #4: Adam Warlock may be an actual warlock now? Ronan the Accuser has a Phalanx-proof army of robots? Star Lord is fucked, as usual? High Evolutionary may have joined the bad guys? Talk about a suspenseful issue. I need more, now.
Terror Inc. #5: Meh. I read it all. It's over. Funny line at the end. Otherwise, meh.
Ultimate Human #2: More interesting than the last issue. We get some action. We get a cured Hulk. We get more insight into why Hulk is the way he is, and how powerful he just might be. Then the shit hits the fan. Actually looking forward the the next one.
Ultimates 3 #3: Wow, mid scene SPLASH PAGE FIGHT, with no real lead in or resolution. It just sort of happens. I don't know if I should blame Loeb's writing, Madureira's layouts, or the editor for not making it get fixed. Then, for no reason, the story changes focus. At least it is going to be over soon.
Ultimate Iron Man 2 #3: Made of awesome. We get some nice mental chess between three different characters, plus a "How's he gonna get out of this one" ending. With one issue left, I am almost sad it's gone by so fast. I wonder if there will be an Ultimate Iron Man 3.
Ultimate Spider-Man #118: Peter almost has an aneurysm at school. Hilarity ensues. I like Kong a lot in these last few issues. I also like that Liz Allen's hate of mutants is really blossoming into something interesting. Not the Firestar I was expecting.
Ultimate X-Men #90 & 91: Ultimate Apocalypse. Taking what was an interesting story arc with Sinister, and expanding it to show he's not actually as crazy as he seemed. In top of that, the way it has all pretty much been building to this moment over Kirkman's run is beautiful. Apocalypse himself is much scarier than his 616 counterpart already. Even if he looks a little stupid before cyborging out. Best part was seeing how Wolverine got to the physical state he was in when he was Cable. Didn't expect to see that so soon, or ever. I wish I had the rest of this arc to read right now. I don't feel that way often, especially with this series.
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