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November 30, 2009

The $40 Pull List Live! December 2009 (Transcript)

Filed under: The $40 Pull List — Craig Reade @ 7:15 pm

7:16 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:16:54 PM

Welcome to December, and the final edition of the comiXtreme.com $40 Pull List for 2009!

7:17 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:17:47 PM
We’re coming to you mostly live from the Spam Corporate Annex in beautiful downtown Nanuktuk, California. I’m Brandon Schatz, and with me, as always is the mastermind behind this madness, the indelible, the maniacal, the one, the only, Craigerton J. Reade. How are you, Craig?

7:18 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:18:10 PM
Quite tired, but full of sick geek love for comics. I think.

7:18 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:18:16 PM

What books are on the list again?

7:18 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:18:27 PM
Who cares! I’m sure you all watched the Gray Cup this weekend. Man, what a nail-biter. Came right down to the last play, and if Saskatechwan hadn’t had too many players on the field right at the end, they would’ve won again Montreal.

To be fair, with a team from Saskatchewan, you can’t really expect good maths, so whatever. What did you think of the game, Craig?

7:19 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:19:07 PM
Gray…. cup?

7:19 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:19:19 PM
Football in Canada? That’s allowed?

7:19 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:19:31 PM
Damn rights.

7:19 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:19:47 PM
One small step of progress for your tiny, backwards nation. Congratulations!

7:20 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:20:01 PM
It was the 97th Gray Cup, nerd.

7:20 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:20:42 PM
  Psh. Canada hasn’t even existed for 97 years. We all know it came about as part of an acid trip in the 1960s.

7:20 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:20:58 PM
  True. I can’t argue with science.

7:21 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:21:13 PM
  Anyway, perhaps it is time to get on with what the thousands of fans are here to read about… Novembers books!

7:21

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:21:20 PM

7:21 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:21:27 PM
  Jonah Hex #49, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/04/09 ON TIME

Written by Justin Gray & Jimmy Palmiotti, Art by Cristiano Cucina, Colors by Rob Schwager

 

In the conclusion to the Six-Gun War, Quentin Turnbull prepares for the eventual arrival of Jonah Hex (finally outnumbering his band thirty-to-one, by Bat Lash’s count).   Hex decides to even the odds, he needs the enslaved miners on his side, and knocks out Lazarus Lane to release El Diablo, to be the miners’ hand of vengeance.   The miners attack, and Hex pursues Turnbull out of the village, and confronts him directly. Turnbull briefly gets the upper hand, but just as Hex is about to deliver the killing blow, Turnbull is rescued by a group of soldiers hired to escort Turnbull across the border.

7:21 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:21:37 PM
  I want to say that I’m disappointed with this wrap up. I mean, in general, I’ve been kind’ve bored by this book, but the way this arc ended… there was no punch. No zazz. And here’s why.

7:21 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:21:50 PM
  1. Superhero tropes leaked into this book. At the end of the day, the hero and the villain live to fight another day, neither really changed by the experience.

7:21 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:21:57 PM
  2. A stunning lack of Rape. Don’t get me wrong, Rape is used best when they appear sparingly… but this ending could’ve been saved quite literally if Rape revealed that he had been screwing everyone all along.Oh yeah. I went there.

7:23 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:23:06 PM
  I can’t really disagree there. The superhero trope thing wouldn’t have bugged me as much if there was an actual fight. Sure, there was lots of fire and revolting slaves, but where was the shootout? The “Six-Gun War” ended with none of the Six Guns really shooting. Just a bunch of pissed off Mexicans burning things down.

7:23 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:23:48 PM
  I enjoyed this story, but talk about deux Ex Machina… “Hi, don’t kill him, I’m taking him. Goodbye.”

7:24 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:24:32 PM
  Yeah. Up until now, it had actually been pretty solid. But I suppose they need to keep Turnbull alive for the movie? Or something? Who knows.

7:24 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:24:38 PM
  Anyway – next month is the shiny issue #50, starring Darwyn Cooke and pretty drawings. This book needed some awesome art, and I am happy.

7:24 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:24:48 PM
  Yeah, that should be tops.

7:25 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:25:03 PM
  Indeed. Onward!

7:25

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:25:06 PM

7:25 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:25:16 PM
  Nova #31, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/04/09 ON TIME 

Written by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning, Art by Andrea DiVito, Colors by Bruno Hang.

 

The issue opens with a flashback from the year prior – at the end of the Skrull Invasion, and a scene between Nova and Darkhawk, talking about how Nova finally achieved recognition after the Annihilation War, and what hell it was to gain the “status” Darkhawk wanted for himself. Flash forward to the present, when Darkhawk is wanted for killing Lilandra during the War of Kings. Nova chases Darkhawk, to get some answers – and just prior the Probationers have a little training session with their new drill sergeant.  Darkhawk finally agrees to accept Nova’s help, but a giant “space weed” erupts and attacks, putting a team of Kree archaeologists in danger. Nova and Darkhawk spring into action and rescue most of the scientists, but one discovers a Raptor Crystal and attacks Nova. His vital signs lost, the rest of the Corps watches in horror from the Resolute Duty as the small world he was on explodes.

7:25 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:25:54 PM
  You missed the part where Nova and Darkhawk had a sexy punch-out. Nova was all, “Oh Darkhawk. It’s you.” And then Darkhawk was all “Punch me, Rich. Punch me like its love.”

7:26 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:26:01 PM
  And then they totally made out until the tentacle porn started up.

7:26 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:26:10 PM
  Or at least that’s what I read. I’ve been told that my comprehension skills aren’t so stellar.

7:26 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:26:19 PM
  My brain refused to see the heresy, my friend.

7:26 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:26:45 PM
  Everyone knows it was Richy and Robbie that burned with passion. But now he’s being S&M Cranky-pants, so it isn’t to be.

7:27 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:27:00 PM
  I need to say this – ENOUGH WITH THE NONLINEAR PLOT DEVICE! Seriously, it is so over-used and mis-used in comics it drives me nuts. What part of this plot suggested it would be a good idea to bounce around so much? The only thing that almost made sense was the “one year ago” flashback conversation between Darkhawk and Nova, but even that didn’t match so much, since the story didn’t really have anything to do with Darkhawk gaining “status.”   Telling this story linearly would have worked perfectly fine, and actually would have made the story better.

 

That said, it really is my only complaint. I still love this title to death – and this was another great issue. Darkhawk is a perfect fit for this cosmic Marvel DnA is weaving, and I am glad to see he is getting face time in Nova.

7:27 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:27:12 PM
  That’s a fairly minor thing that just might be the fact that all the books you’re reading right now are pulling out the same trick. It’s really not that prevalent.

7:28 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:28:13 PM
  I swear – it seems like every book – Lets start in the PAST! Then go up six months! Then back 2 weeks, up 4, back 6 hours, then forward 12 minutes. How does this help advance a story? DnA – I love Nova right now, but just stop!

7:29 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:29:57 PM
  Anyway, enough Nova, I had to dig to find something to complain about, otherwise it was awesome. And lord knows you get tired hearing about how awesome something is over and over…

7:30

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:30:00 PM

7:30 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:30:07 PM
  Batman and Robin #6, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 11/11/09 ON TIME 

Written by Grant Morrison, Art by Philip Tan, Inks by Jonathan Glapion, Colors by Alex Sinclair

 

Batman and Robin are chained up, stripped, sitting in front of a webcam, which will turn on once enough people call a certain phone number. Meanwhile, Red Hood and Scarlet fight Flamingo. The Dynamic Due escape, and come to the rescue of their would-be replacements.   The Red Hood manages to beat Flamingo, and is eventually arrested for murder.  

7:30 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:30:39 PM
  What the balls was up with the art in this issue? It was like Philip Tan’s last issue of GL, where the colourist had to go in and do some heavy lifting just to make images make sense. Say what you will about Quitely, but he does not skimp and let the colourist fix his work.

7:31 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:31:23 PM
  More like his art is crap, but he has the clout to prevent a colorist from damaging his “art.” But the art still stinks, no doubt about it.

7:31 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:31:48 PM
  Zing!

7:31 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:31:49 PM
  Truth be told, the story isn’t gripping me that much either. There are bright points – but then I get a look at a Ginger Jason Todd, and it loses all credibility.

7:32 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:32:38 PM
  But seriously, folks, I couldn’t stand the art in this one. Next issue brings Cameron Stewart, who is awesome, but… who knows if the book will make it to there, as yeah… the story hasn’t been gripping me as much lately either.

7:33 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:33:01 PM
  It isn’t bad… but I am just not feeling it. I was excited at the idea of someone else taking on the cowl, but Morrison just isn’t doing anything with it. Shouldn’t surprise me – I really haven’t enjoyed much by Morrison in a long, long time.

7:33 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:33:58 PM
  Anyway – Batman & Robin is off next month… perhaps we will discuss this title a little further down in the column.

7:34 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:34:03 PM
  The next book…

7:34

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:34:07 PM

7:34 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:34:13 PM
  Ghost Riders: Heavens on Fire #4 (of 6), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due out 11/04/09 ON TIME 

Written by Jason Aaron, Pencils by Roland Boschi, Colors by Dan Brown

7:34 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:34:20 PM
  Okay, so in Ghost Rider this month, Purple Hat and the Wicker Scarecrow eat up this prison. Then, on the run, the Anti-Christ cops a feel from the nun who’s the Caretaker, and then everyone argues a bit until they get to this town. And once they’re there? A bunch of them fight Purple Hat and Wicker Man, which ends badly, for the most part. Then the Caretaker gets sucker punched by the dude with demons for hands and oh snap! The nuns are going to face zombie bikers!

7:35 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:35:15 PM
  This issue had the feel of a little filler, but otherwise it wasn’t too bad. Still – the Gun Nuns tease was a bit mean… we needed that THIS issue. Two issues of tease? Shenanigans! 

7:35 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:35:17 PM
  Recap’d. WHUT.

7:35 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:35:57 PM
  Yeah, I kinda agree. Great if you knew who these insane villains were (and they *are* insane), but for the rest of us… a little light on the plot.

7:36 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:36:02 PM
  Still, not a bad read.

7:36 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:36:19 PM
  Is it wrong of me that I really want some analog of Dana Carvey’s Church Lady character to appear somewhere in this book?”Son of…. SATAN!!!”

7:36 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:36:29 PM
  It would fit so well.

7:36 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:36:53 PM
  Also, if I am not mistaken, the nun-grope was the only appearance of Rape in any issue this month on the list. A sad, sad showing.

7:37 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:37:01 PM
  If that’s wrong, Craig, then I don’t want ot be right.

7:37 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:37:07 PM
  Agreed.

7:37 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:37:28 PM
  Well, this book remains fun… though I still maintain this issue was 100% filler. A bad thing in a mini series.

7:37

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:37:40 PM

7:37 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:37:47 PM
  The Indigo Lantern Munk arrives on Oa amist the battle and reports that the homeworld of the Violet Lanterns (Zamaron) has been destroyed by the Black Lantern attack, along with their Power Battery. Once their power level maxed out, the Black Lanterns ended their assault, and turned their attention on Oa’s Power Battery. When things were looking their worst, the Green Lanters release Red Lantern Vice – but he is dispatched quickly by Sciencell security countermeasures that believe he is attempting escape. To preserve the battery, Kyle Rayner detonates his own power battery, completely wiping out the Black Lantern attackers, and killing himself in the process.

7:38 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:38:01 PM
  (You bastards)

7:38 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:38:47 PM
  Well, I suppose we know what you thought of this issue then? I was schocked to see Kyle go… I kept pegging Guy as the one to bite it. Nice swerve there, by Tomasi.

7:40 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:40:26 PM
  You know, I honestly might be a little more pissed of Guy died. I mean, Guy was always lame, up until around Rebirth… when he became awesome. Still – Kyle is my Green Lantern – and sure, there is a part of me that thinks “Oh, conspiracy… Hal Jordan wasn’t getting the love DC editorial insisted upon, so they had to kill the real Green Lantern!”But he went out like a Hero, and ultimately sacrificed himself in the right way to win a War. And honestly, I can guarantee he will be back before the year is out.

7:41 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:41:48 PM
  Well, yeah, I kind’ve have a sneaking suspicion that a lot of the dead… especially the ones who died DURING Blackest Night… aren’t all going to stay that way. There’s just too many deaths.

7:43 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:43:02 PM
  Indeed. I think there is going to be some kind of refresh button hit, sadly. Which makes the whole event even worse for me, because you KNOW the deaths are all just sensationalism. What – is Mark Millar under Johns’ desk or something?

7:43 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:43:32 PM
  Sadly, we dropped the Blackest Night event, so I guess I really lost the ability to complain about it here…

7:44 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:44:01 PM
  Yeah, well, there’s two different Geoff Johns. The guy who can craft awesome superhero books with just the right touch of history… and the guy who likes to be goey and cut people up. I don’t like this Geoff johns…

7:44 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:44:39 PM
  Nor I. Thankfully, he isn’t on this book, and this book is awesome. Enough Said. So, you recapping this one next month?

7:44 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:44:54 PM
  We need a lesson in Schatzian Lantern names I think.

7:45 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:45:09 PM
  Yes. Yes, I believe that would be rockin.

7:45 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:45:16 PM
  Groovy. Onward!

7:45

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:45:22 PM

7:45 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:45:26 PM
  Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth #5, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 ON TIME

Written by Victor Gishler, Pencils by Bong Dazo, Colors by Matt Milla, Inks by José Pimentel 

 

Br. Betty, Deadpool, and Zombie Deadpool arrive on the A.I.M. Space Station, which is later attacked by a HYDRA ship. In the confusion, the two Deadpools, Dr. Betty, and Bill – Agent of AIM make their escape.

7:45 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:45:47 PM
  The jokes in this alone are what’s carrying it for me. The plot? Eh. I could take it or leave it. But coming out of this, I’m thinking it’ll be an ensamble book, with Deadpool, Headpool, Betty and Bill.

7:46 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:46:16 PM
  The plot sucks – no doubt. But this is a humor book, and on that front, it works. I gotta say, I love the fact that AIM and HYDRA are getting so much play in this book. Many times, they even actually looked credible, and “bad-ass” to boot. Still, overly silly, but that’s what makes this title fun. Waiting anxiously for Bob to cross paths with Bill – but Bill needs a while to develop himself before that inevitable meeting, I think.

7:47 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:47:39 PM
  This is true. I actually think my fondness of these organizations grew out of watching Venture Brothers. There’s just so much to do with expendible henchmen.

7:48 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:48:18 PM
  I can’t agree more. There is so much untapped potential with those groups – and honestly, Deadpool’s been using it for years. Glad to see that tradition is still ongoing.

7:48

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:48:21 PM

7:48 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:48:24 PM
  Doctor Horrible #1, $3.50, DC Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 ON TIME

Written by Zach Whedon, Art by Joelle Jones, Colors by Dan Jackson

 

Billy, as an eight-year-old, is beat up by a bully – and then witnesses a confrontation between the heroic Justice Joe and the evil Mister Maniacal that looks strangely similar to the one he just had with the bully. Only there – Maniacal wins. 20 Years later – Doctor Horrible literally runs into Captain Hammer when trying to blow up all of the parking meters in the city (their first meeting), but lives to see another day when Captain Hammer has to go and confront Bad Horse. Dr. Horrible devises a plan to “level the playing field,” in their next confrontation, and stole a bit of his DNA to give himself Captain Hammer’s strength and durability.   The plan works – until he realizes that in addition to his strength, Dr. Horrible also mimicked his intelligence. Taking the antidote, Dr. Horrible escapes, and lives to plan another heist.

7:48 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:48:35 PM
  The only thing I felt this book was really missing was a big song. It’s hard to do in comics, but I’ve seen it happen. In fact almost every month it DOES in the Muppet Show book, and to good effect. But hey, the rest of it was bouncy and funny, and did end up being more, rather than the same.

7:48 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:48:45 PM
 
  1. This was really good. I was worried it was going to be a weak recitation of the musical, but to the contrary – it actually added a great deal to the Doctor Horrible mythos. I am a fan of this book. Shame it isn’t at least a mini-series … one issue just isn’t enough. 

7:48

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:48:59 PM
 

7:52 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:52:54 PM
Wh… where am I?

7:53 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:53:10 PM
  I the land of make believe, Craig.

7:53 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:53:15 PM
  *in

7:53 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:53:39 PM
 

Must be. Sorry for the technical difficulties. I could hear the thousands of voices screaming in agony when the feed ended.

7:53 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:53:46 PM
  I know I shared your woe.

7:53 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:53:57 PM
  *Single tear*

7:54 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:54:06 PM
  However, despite the forces arrayed against us – THIS LIST WILL NOT PERISH FROM THIS EARTH!

7:54 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:54:13 PM
  So, we are back. Where the hell were we?

7:54 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:54:22 PM
  Oh yeah, Doctor Horrible.

7:54 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:54:28 PM
 

This was really good. I was worried it was going to be a weak recitation of the musical, but to the contrary – it actually added a great deal to the Doctor Horrible mythos. I am a fan of this book. Shame it isn’t at least a mini-series … one issue just isn’t enough.

7:54 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:54:55 PM
  Agreed. Onwards, honkie!

7:55 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:55:07 PM
 

OK then! On to… weirdness.

7:55

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:55:15 PM

7:55 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:55:19 PM
 

Wolverine: Weapon X #7, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/18/09. ON TIME

Written by Jason Aaron, Pencils by Yanick Paquette, Inks by Michael Lacombe, Color by Nathan Fairbairn.

 

Logan remains bonkers in the asylum – meanwhile, another of the inmates is taken, his hands replaced with chainsaws, and offered for sale to a pair who want to assassinate an Attorney General. They balk at the idea of that kind of carnage, but are killed for the insult. Later, Dr. Rot once again tries to get Logan to “let out the Darkness,” and pushed to the limit, he finally complies.

7:55 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:55:40 PM
  I feel as though this is a weird second arc to go on. For an ongoing, I think the perfect plan is two arc of ongoing story, and then a break like this, to tell a nice horror story. The pace of it works for a horror comic, but has ground the book’s momentum down quite a   bit.

7:55 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:55:57 PM
 

It’s tough when you have a book with a lot going on, but almost nothing you can really talk about in a few short sentences. This is a very deliberately paced book, but not in that horrible generic comic way that basically means “padding for more issues and more money.” It seems like a story that is worth the time to tell, and so far, things are going exactly the pace they should not an exciting read by any means, but definitely an enjoyable one.

7:56 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:56:50 PM
  This doesn’t really seem like a Wolverine book, and I think that is the problem I am having with it. If this was some weird Vertigo book, I think I’d be more excited about it.

7:57 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:57:17 PM
  True. It really hinges upon how this ending goes. I can almost guarentee some of mama’s good ol’ homemade flashback storytelling. ;)

7:58 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:58:14 PM
  uuuuh… flashback….

7:58 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:58:26 PM
  As long as it is ONE, and not bouncing all around, I guess I can live.

7:58 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:58:39 PM
  Let’s move on to something completely… better.

7:58

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:58:42 PM

7:58 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:58:49 PM
 

Nomad: The Girl Without A World #3, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 ON TIME

Written by Sean McKeever, Pencils by David Baldeon, Colors by Chris Sotomayor

 

We discover that Rikki is being watched by members of Desmond’s “order,” and we learn that it isn’t just a strange twist of charisma that convinced people to side with him (like we really thought that). Rikki goes on the beat as Nomad, and encounters a hooded figure, who attacks her along with Mad Dog, and she is defeated, brainwashed, and finally unmasks herself in support of Desmond. In a strange twist – he has no idea at all about the brainwashing. In the end – Desmond wins the election, his supporters riot, and we learn the mastermind behind it all is Dr. Powers – a flimsy alias for Professor Power.

7:59 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:59:03 PM
  I believe my man love for Sean McKeever is justified in this series. The characters and the plot progression is going just right, and man… are there some solid twists. I’m glad this book gets to continue… as McKeever is the kind of writer who writes good “bear trap” stories. He keeps dropping little plot points, as if he’s opening bear traps all around the main character, and a few missteps later, they all go off, one after another. I can’t wait to see where this goes.

7:59 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 7:59:57 PM
  I really can’t disagree. This book is outstanding.

I don’t know if I can say any more about this book beyond what I have already said. Excellent writing, great pacing and balance… I am really enjoying this title. Why don’t people read titles like this one? It remains a mystery to me. This book is solid gold on every single level, and people would rather read the manufactured garbage. I don’t understand people.

8:01 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:01:39 PM
  Sucky thing about an awesome book? There is so little to talk about. And I have to say – Nomad deserves some attention. Put down your crappy event book for ONCE and pick this book up. Please.

8:02 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:02:25 PM
  9/10 times, the event book is going to suck. Infinite Crisis is long over… now its milking the cash cow. Don’t stick with it just because you are afraid of missing something!

8:02 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:02:48 PM
  DO IT. Or, you know, scramble for the back issues when it starts being a back-up in Captain America in january.

8:03 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:03:01 PM
  Indeed.

8:03 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:03:15 PM
  Guess what books gonna be added next month to the list.

8:03 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:03:20 PM
  Moving on.

8:03

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:03:23 PM

8:03 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:03:27 PM
 

Invincible Iron Man #20, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/25/09 ON TIME

Written by Matt Fraction, Art by Salvador Larroca, Colors by Frank D’Armata

 

In the start of a new story arc, we start with an odd dream sequence (Tony’s mind at work?) and then see a recording Tony made just prior to handing over control to Norman Osborne, predicting exactly where he was then, and asking those watching to decide on if they want to bring him back or not. Captain America, Donald Blake (Thor), Black Widow, Pepper Potts, and Maria Hill mull over the decision. Meanwhile, the dreams continue (repetitively), and Norman Osborne calls off the hit he put on Stark initially, claiming victory.

8:03 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:03:57 PM
 

Not a bad start – things still seem somewhat padded, but at least we know ahead of time that this is only a 5 issue story. Thank goodness.

8:04 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:04:58 PM
  Okay, so yeah, this issue starts with a vegetable narrating about… the first half. It’s pretty talking heads, but it’s… well, it’s oddly compelling. This, from a guy who can’t stand talky-talky Bendis Avengers.

8:05 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:05:32 PM
  Well, the difference there is -padding for Fraction is a dense story for Bendis. Honestly.

8:06 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:06:43 PM
  Its a good read… though I am ready for something totally different. Let’s get through the "reboot" and hopefully by then, this junk with Osborne is over with. Time for another antagonist all together.

8:07 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:07:21 PM
  I agree. There’s been too much Norman. Although, the stuff coming up makes it look as though finall,y the heroes are going to get a win. Odd that it’s refreshing.

8:07 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:07:50 PM
  It is, isn’t it? That’s kind of sad really.

8:07 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:07:57 PM
  Let’s move on to another good book.

8:08

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:08:01 PM

8:08 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:08:09 PM
 

Avengers: The Initiative #30, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/25/09 ON TIME

Written by Christos N. Gage, Pencils by Jorde Molina, Inks by Victor Olazaba and Andrew Hennessy, Colors by Edgar Delgado and Bit.

 

Flashback to 20 years ago (what, does every issue have to start this way this month? At least this time it makes sense), to the conception of Trauma, and how Nightmare planned his birth and the eventual usurping of his body. The New Warriors battle Penance as Nightmare emerges, and the first thing he does is restore Robbie’s memories, and unleashing nightmares on the other combatants. Tigra retrieves Night Thrasher, and finally helps ground Robbie who fights back, defeats Nightmare, and helps the New Warriors escape.

8:10 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:10:03 PM
  This book really bounced back with this arc for me. I mean, both Trauma and Penance man up in this book. It’s almsot as if Penance was the man he should be here. Only, you know, he’s not. If they fix that by this story’s end, then I’ll be a happy panda.

8:10 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:10:18 PM
  You know, they called Trauma "Emo-boy" once in this issue, and I totally thought they meant Penance. It was funny.

8:12 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:12:04 PM
  You know – its odd. A thought occured to me reading this issue (after Nova)… its almost like the New Warriors ARE coming into their own. I think the idea that they planned it this was is laughable, but once Robbie comes out of this Penance garbage, he is going to be seasoned, high profile, and mature. Nova’s story goes without saying, and Darkhawk has finally gotten the same treatment. That, combined with the respect given to the New Warriors name…

Did these characters just grow up? The ones left alive, anyway…

8:12 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:12:21 PM
  I do like that they implied that Penance doesn’t want to be Speedball again until he gets his junk together… which is good. I mean, a bunch of writers broke him pretty bad to get him to this point, so if it looks like someone is going to take the time to put him together again before he can be Speedball again… I guess I’m kind’ve sort of okay with that. Maybe.

8:12 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:12:58 PM
  Hell, even Justice and Firestar are getting attention.

8:13 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:13:20 PM
  You are right though – I think Robbie realizes he has some healing to do, and he’s finally ready to do it. Instead of crying all the time. I like it.

8:14 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:14:09 PM
  Anyway – I think it is safe to say that this issue was something of a success. And, with that being the last title of the month, we should get ready for December’s List.

8:14 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:14:18 PM
 

- The List So Far

 

Jonah Hex #50, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 12/02/09

Nova #32, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/03/09

Ghost Riders: Heavens on Fire #5 (of 6), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due out 12/09/09

Invincible Iron Man #21, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/09/09  

Green Lantern Corps #43, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 12/16/09

Nomad: The Girl Without A World #4, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 12/16/09

Power Girl #7, $2.99, DC Comics. Due out 12/16/09

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth #6, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/16/09 Wolverine: Weapon X #8, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/23/09

Avengers: The Initiative #31, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/23/09

Batman and Robin #7, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 01/27/10

8:14 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:14:28 PM
 

The Math

 

$2.59 (Bank from November) + $40 (December Budget) = $42.59

$42.59  - $33.99  (November  issues) – $2.63 (tax) = $5.97  Banked for December

8:14 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:14:50 PM
 

- The Chopping Block & New Titles

8:15 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:15:50 PM
  Well, Power Girl is back, but Batman & Robin are going on the shelf for a month. This is a good trade if you ask me. If it wasn’t put off, it would be the title I would recommend dropping to make room for a new book. Everything else was pretty solid – petty griping aside, and I am actually looking forward to next month.

8:16 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:16:13 PM
  So my question is – do you have anything you would like to chop this month? Should we just put Batman out of its misery?

8:17 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:17:22 PM
  Hurmmm… with no issue out next month, we don’t have to worry about it until the next. Part of me is leaning towards chopping it here, to be fair.

8:17 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:17:54 PM
  Well, it doesn’t hurt us either way – so we can leave it until next month to decide. New books?

8:19 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:19:23 PM
  Well, there doesn’t look like a whole lot is going on at Marvel or DC the next couple of months. Nothing that we’d be interested in. So… let’s go for something a bit different. Kids book called "Spider-Man and the Secret Wars" from Marvel.

8:20 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:20:10 PM
  Basically, an all ages version of Secret Wars… but Marvel does so well with making their all ages books really work for "all ages" that I think this might be something right up our alley. Fun, self contained, blah blah, blah…

8:20 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:20:20 PM
  I am a fan. The Marvel Adventures books are always solid, old-school style comics, and usually they have strong, self-contained stories.

8:20 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:20:33 PM
  I’m on board. So, for December, we have…

8:20 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:20:36 PM
 

Jonah Hex #50, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 12/02/09

Nova #32, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/03/09

Ghost Riders: Heavens on Fire #5 (of 6), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due out 12/09/09

Invincible Iron Man #21, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/09/09  
Spider-Man & The Secret Wars #1, $2.99, Marvel Comics Due Out 12/09/09

Green Lantern Corps #43, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 12/16/09

Nomad: The Girl Without A World #4, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 12/16/09

Power Girl #7, $2.99, DC Comics. Due out 12/16/09

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth #6, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/16/09 Wolverine: Weapon X #8, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/23/09

Avengers: The Initiative #31, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 12/23/09

Batman and Robin #7, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 01/27/10

 

 

The Math

 

$2.59 (Bank from November) + $40 (December Budget) = $42.59

$42.59  - $36.98  (November  issues) – $2.87 (tax) = $2.74  Banked for January

8:21 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:21:28 PM
 

And with that – it is time to end! However, before we part, I have some sad news…. this will be the final Edition of the $40 Pull List Live!

8:22 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:22:30 PM
  Noes! Horrors!

8:22 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:22:58 PM
  The column will return next month – but in the old, non-live format. I found this to be a blast – but we have to be honest with ourselves… no one watches this live. So, in order to put out a better product, and not jump through hoops to be on when no one watches.

8:23 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:23:47 PM
  Thanks for those who stuck with us all year – tune in next month for the return of the Traditional $40 Pull List!

8:23 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:23:55 PM
  Any parting comments, B?

8:24 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:24:09 PM
  Agreed. It was fun, but much like doinking, if no one is around to watch, it’s just not fun. Wait, what?

8:24 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:24:16 PM
  Oh! Before we go…

8:26 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:26:04 PM
  I want to point everyone towards the place where you can find all the Best of the Decade pieces that will be going up at Comixtreme over the next month.

http://www.comixtreme.com/forums/showthread.php?t=50956

8:27 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:27:14 PM
  Everyone here has worked very hard on this, and all the pieces will be awesome! So DO it.

8:27 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:27:54 PM
  Indeed! I am looking forward to it. So, for one final, actual live time, signing off from the lovely corperate annex.

I will miss the SPAM.

8:28 Craig Reade

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:28:05 PM
  Goodnight!

8:28 B. Schatz

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:28:10 PM
  Night!

8:28

Monday, November 30, 2009, 8:28:18 PM
 

Post your comments in the Forum!


November 3, 2009

Ghostbusters: The Video Game Review

Filed under: Reviews — Craig Reade @ 5:00 pm

staypufttReviewer: Craig Reade
Quick Rating: Average
Rating: T (Teen)
Official Site

The ghost of Shandor attempts to summon Gozer, and the Ghostbusters have to stop him.

Platform: XBox 360, Playstation 3, Nintendo Wii, Playstation 2, Nintendo DS, PSP, PC (Windows)
Developer: Terminal Reality, Threewave Software, Red Fly Studio, Zen Studios
Publisher: Atari
Genre: Action/Adventure
# of Players: 1, Multiplayer online
U.S. Release Date: June 16th, 2009
MSRP: $59.99 ($39.99 Wii, $29.99 PSP, DS & PC, $19.99 PS2)

GhostbustersboxtSo what is not to like about this? A brand new Ghostbusters game, reuniting Dan Akroyd, Harold Ramis, Bill Murray, and Ernie Hudson in their original roles (not to mention Annie Potts, Brian Doyle-Murray, and William Atherton), with writing guidance from Ghostbuster gurus Dan Akroyd and Harold Ramis? This sounds like digital gold.

Of course, adding to the hype was this game’s long journey to publication, the famous decade-old feud between Harold Ramis and Bill Murray coming to an end, Activision’s Blizzard merger almost killing it – the years it took for this game to become a reality was almost a movie unto itself.

After all the hype, all the anticipation, the game is finally released. And after I sit down to play it, I have to say that my reaction was a resounding “Meh.”

Don’t get me wrong – there is a lot of positives to this game. The nostalgia factor is through the roofs. Some might complain that the developers chose to cram every single possible reference to the films into this game, but I favor that kind of pandering. It’s a Ghostbusters game. I want to fight Stay Puft, chase down Slimer, and confront Eleanor Twitty. Yeah, some of these elements seemed forced into the story, but they are supposed to be there. The addition of the original film soundtrack and the original voices really added to the flavor. The songs set the mood, and the familiar voices help keep you engaged.

trappingslimertThe trouble is, the game itself really is boring. The nostalgia factor is the only thing that keeps you motivated to play the game through to the end. The entire game really comes down to a pair of game mechanics – hitting ghosts with the streams long enough that you can trap them (and doing so), or soaking non-trappable enemies with slime blowers until they die. This you do over, and over, and over again. Of course, killing things over and over is the basis of all games, but a weak design amplified the repetitiveness.

In order to properly explain what was wrong with the game, I have to start by explaining how it worked. You are “Rookie,” an unnamed 5th Ghostbuster that is tasked with handling all of the prototype gear that Egan has developed. This includes your proton pack, which actually functions as four different weapons. The standard proton stream, the shock blast, a more efficient slime blower, and the meson collider. You have a PKE meter that is used to scan and log the different entities you encounter, and also can track your target and any bonus items you need to discover.

tripletraptSo far so good – but the health system is where the game starts to unravel. You don’t really have a health-meter per se. You get hit with enough attacks quick enough, and you are put out of action and need to be revived. As you take abuse, the only visible evidence is a bit of blurred vision that you experience until you recover. You are almost always working with at least one other Ghostbuster, however, and they can revive you. You can also revive them if they get incapacitated – revival means a complete restoration of health.

“Oh, that’s easy!” You must be thinking. And I don’t blame you.

Trouble is – there is no rhyme or reason to the damage you take. You can be wrangling one ghost, and another two will hit you from behind. Or a boss will cause the floor to erupt in flames right where you are standing (and you can’t see). I can honestly say that the only things that really did damage to me during the entire game were things I couldn’t see. And you can give up all idea of “battlefield awareness.” You will frequently end up in a room with multiple ghosts and other corporeal enemies – and the ghosts can often move fast. They swirl around the room, going through walls and generally maneuvering faster than you can ever hope to keep track of. It quickly becomes obvious that your only hope of success is to eliminate the corporeal threats (Which, with the exception of fliers, generally directly attack) first, then move on to the main apparitions, all while keeping an eye out for fallen teammates to revive (their icons appear on the upper right of the screen along with a compass – a handy notification).

This tactic works somewhat well – the random shots from behind get frustrating, especially later in the game when you start encountering things that can kill you in a single hit – but even more frustrating is the absolute idiocy of the other Ghostbusters. I can understand why you wouldn’t want to make them too effective – you wouldn’t want to make a game where you could just stand there while your allies beat the game for you. On the other hand, they seem to have no survival instinct whatsoever. While they are virtually useless in every fight, they are your safety valve – if they are dead, you can’t be revived. And they had a maddening tendency to huddle in tight groups to be blown away by AOE attacks, or to simply run into attacks for no rhyme or reason. To lie there incapacitated, waiting to be revived, as you watch your allies fall one by one isn’t exactly fun.

peteraytOf course, when you die, you just start over from the last checkpoint. So no big deal! Well, this is where one flaw leads to another. Ghostbusters has the distinction of having one of the best and worst loading systems I have ever seen in a game.

For starters – you never notice the load time during gameplay. All of the loading takes place during the cut-scenes and is virtually seamless. And since a big part of playing this game is seeing those cut-scenes to get the story. Without death, you can get through this game without any visible load time at all. Level -scene – level – a seamless flow.

But you do notice the load time when you start the game. Anytime you have to load from a checkpoint (meaning, you aren’t getting a cut-scene), the load time is unbearable. Its okay when the game first starts up for a session, but heaven forbid you die. Instead of springing right back into action, you get a several minute break while the game loads. Instead of being allowed to jump back in and throw yourself at a difficult target that managed to kill you, you wait – and watch the same loading cut-scene over and over. After once or twice, it literally makes you want to put the game down.

Of course, there aren’t that many moment in the game, but the dreaded difficulty spike hits a few times in this game, almost at random. You will be progressing along just fine, when all of the sudden you will be slammed with an almost impossible assortment of opponents, coming at you from all directions. And these times are never boss fights – go figure – they happen randomly in a few levels. After you finally sit through the loading screen a few times and get through the bad part – the game slips right back into super-easy mode.

The level designs are horrible. For starters, many of the levels are sprawling outdoor areas, but you have no map. Seriously – they don’t give you a map at all. Even when you aren’t in a sandbox, a map can be an incredibly useful tool. And though the levels are incredibly detailed, they are monotonous, so it is nearly impossible to know where you came from. You end up groping blindly along if you don’t have a trail to follow – and if you get lost (which happens a few times), good luck figuring out which way you were supposed to go. The rooms which do look particularly good (like the Sedgewick ballroom) quickly loose their luster when the proton streams are fired. Those are exactly like the movie, have a tendency to wash-out the entire screen, and totally kill the impact of the iconic locations. In the mundane paths, its even worse.

ballroomtThe voice acting is ok – but you can tell it was frequently phoned in. The worst culprit is Bill Murray – who just wasn’t into it at all. Mercifully, Venkman isn’t present for most of the game, but when he is around, his labored part is painful to sit through. Worse – he has the identical role he had in the first movie, the romantic lead – a subplot that should have been dropped all together. It seems almost as if they wrote the game assuming he wouldn’t do it, but then tacked the part on when they signed him to the deal. It was bad – bad – and it would have been better f he wasn’t in it at all. Of course, Alyssa Milano did do a passable job as his love interest, Ilyssa Sekwyn, but I really could have done without her.

Overall, I really have to say this was a great and a horrible game, all at the same time. Which makes rating it a chore. The graphics were good, but washed out, wrangling ghosts is fun, but the revival/death dance was horrible, and the plot was decent and well thought out, but the voice acting left a little to be desired.

If you are a Ghostbusters fan, play the game. If not – stay away from this game. Far, far away. This game is 100% nostalgia hype, and is only enjoyable to those who call themselves fans. The fact that it is Ghostbusters, and the fact that it hits all the right fanboy buttons makes it possible to overlook what is overall a shoddy game.

Rating:

Post your comments in the Forum!


November 2, 2009

The $40 Pull List Live! November 2009 (Transcript)

Filed under: The $40 Pull List — Craig Reade @ 7:45 pm
7:45
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Welcome to the November edition of the comiXtreme.com $40 Pull List!

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:45 Craig Reade
7:45
B. Schatz: 

Yes, we’re coming to you live once more from the bowels of the Spam Corporate Annex in Nanuktuk, Califon-i-a, and we’re ready for some football!

Monday November 2, 2009 7:45 B. Schatz
7:45
B. Schatz: 

Or comics.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:45 B. Schatz
7:46
B. Schatz: 

Umm… just a warning, I’m in a bit of a weird mood today. More so than normal…

Monday November 2, 2009 7:46 B. Schatz
7:46
Craig Reade: 

Indeed. When are you not in an odd mood though?

Monday November 2, 2009 7:46 Craig Reade
7:46
Craig Reade: 

In any case, let’s get on with the show!

Monday November 2, 2009 7:46 Craig Reade
7:46
Craig Reade: 

October Issues

Monday November 2, 2009 7:46 Craig Reade
7:47

Expand
Monday November 2, 2009 7:47 
7:47
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Jonah Hex #48, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 10/07/09 ON TIME 

Written by Justin Gray & Jimmy Palmiotti, Art by Cristiano Cucina, Colors by Rob Schwager

 

Hex confronts Chako Jones (who got his start way back in Jonah Hex #4!), who reveals he betrayed Hex to the assassin, who finally attack. Hex kills most of them, before getting vengeance on Chako (dead!) and fighting off the last of the killers. The next day, Black, Lash, and Lane try and piece together what happened the previous night, and why Jonah didn’t warn them about the betrayal.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:47 Craig Reade
7:47
B. Schatz: 

Essentially, this issue was about Jonah bringing a gun to several knife fights, which seems a little unfair, until you factor in the whole “betrayed to assassins” thing. Rape is noticeably absent, their pretense being saved for the end part, I’m assuming.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:47 B. Schatz
7:47
B. Schatz: 

Which is a shame, because this issue suffered a bit from being the end of the second act – there’s a lot of action, but it’s just all bluster as things build for the confrontation in the next issue – which should be awesome. Unfortunately, it makes this one seem slightly more hollow than your average issue of Hex.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:47 B. Schatz
7:48
Craig Reade: 
 

 

This issue seemed like mostly payoff… which isn’t a bad thing. I’m enjoying the arc… despite the absence of Rape once again. Perhaps in the finalé.   But you are correct – it was the end of an act, and a passable end at that.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:48 Craig Reade
7:48
Craig Reade: 

For those that don’t remember, way back in issue #4, Hex is hired to capture Chako Jones– who was accused of raping the daughter of the Mayor of Tall Pines. As we find out then – the Mayor himself was guilty of the rape, and he ended up paying the price. This issue, he meets his end

Monday November 2, 2009 7:48 Craig Reade
7:48
Which title (If any) should be cut?

Wolverine: Weapon X

 ( 0% )

Power Girl

 ( 0% )

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth

 ( 0% )

Invincible Iron Man

 ( 0% )

Avengers: The Initiative

 ( 0% )

No cuts this month!

 ( 100% )

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:48 
7:48
B. Schatz: 

Yeah, I totally didn’t know that dude. I started reading this book back when you started doing this… almost three years ago. Dang.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:48 B. Schatz
7:49
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Indeed. Jonah Hex has had a long and storied history on the Pull List – remaining the only title from the original List

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 Craig Reade
7:49
B. Schatz: 

Anyway, like I said, this was a bit light for my tastes, but it should be noted that a hollow issue of Hex is worth a penny saved or something, so I don’t regret the purchase.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 B. Schatz
7:49
Craig Reade: 

It’s a strong mainstay… and continues this month to get the job done.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 Craig Reade
7:49
Craig Reade: 

Moving on!

Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 Craig Reade
7:49
B. Schatz: 

Rockin.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 B. Schatz
7:49

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Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 
7:49
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Ghost Riders: Heavens Fire #3 (of 6), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due out 10/07/09 ON TIME 

Written by Jason Aaron, Pencils by Roland Boschi, Colors by Dan Brown

 

Ketch and Blaze argue about what course of action to take. Just as Blaze is about to leave, Ketch is run down and we get a brief flashback . The two Ghost Riders chase down the vehicle that ran over Danny, which turns out to be Big Wheel. Danny is attached by a possessed crane, and he defeats the demon. In the end, the “Gun Nuns” prepare to defend the gateway.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:49 Craig Reade
7:50
B. Schatz: 

Let’s go through that one more time: in this issue, the Ghost Riders were attacked by Big Wheel (a dude in a big wheel), Trull the Mighty (a formless conqueror who came down to earth years ago to… well, conquer, and decided that the best course of action would be to possess a giant crane.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:50 B. Schatz
7:50
B. Schatz: 

And we haven’t even gotten to the part where they have to go heaven to take down a rogue angel, who is trying to rid the world of the anti-Christ… which the Ghost Riders must now protect. The only thing that could make this book better is a lower price point, but with sales being what they are on this book, I’ll take this mini as a way of ending Jason Aaron’s run all good and proper, rather than getting something rushed into the span of a couple of issues.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:50 B. Schatz
7:51
Craig Reade: 

You did forget the Gun Nuns… that was ten kinds of awesome. Why are nuns in comic books always sexy and in skin-tight habits?

Monday November 2, 2009 7:51 Craig Reade
7:51
Craig Reade: 

REAL looking nuns would have been way cooler.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:51 Craig Reade
7:52
B. Schatz: 

I suppose. But hey, they’re liberal enough to have machine guns and such…. maybe liberal enough to be super sexy and what.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:52 B. Schatz
7:52
Craig Reade: 
 

 

I suppose. But still, an old Nun with a machine gun would have been killer. Anyway, this title is awesome. I don’t understand why people aren’t more into this.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:52 Craig Reade
7:53
Craig Reade: 

Moving on!

Monday November 2, 2009 7:53 Craig Reade
7:53

Expand
Monday November 2, 2009 7:53 
7:53
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Batman and Robin #5, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 10/07/09 ON TIME 

Written by Grant Morrison, Art by Philip Tan, Inks by Jonathan Glapion, Colors by Alex Sinclair

 

Batman and Robin tangle with Red Hood and Scarlet, and they ultimately survive the attack and make their escape. Todd reveals the basis of his “branding” approach to Red Hood (and that he is really a ginger, and Batman “made” him dye his hair to look like Dick Grayson??).

 

The police find a bloody scene on an airplane where a man named “Flamingo” peeled the faces from his victims and ate them. Flamingo turns out to be a mob enforcer sent to end the Red Hood for his actions – and in the end, the two meet.

 

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:53 Craig Reade
7:54
B. Schatz: 

I really enjoyed the whole “viral marketing” approach Jason is taking in this book. A bunch of comic book writers and companies have been on the viral wagon for quite a while – not to mention movies that are now pumping weird little bonuses out there, whether it be through tv commercials, the yourfaceinatubes, or what-have-you. Having a “hero” do it is a smart idea – and definitely keeps with Jason’s whole accelerated system of punishment when it comes to criminals in general.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:54 B. Schatz
7:55
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Like last issue, this one wasn’t terrible. I am not a really big fan of Morrison’s twists in Jason Todd’s character – but I suppose that is easy to ignore. The story was good – the art, not so much. Still better than it was, but it isn’t good. It has moments, but the feel overall lends itself more to jumbled, scribbly, confusion than it does to storytelling. Jason is a villain for the modern era though – despite some  stand-out flaws, there are some strong ideas there as well.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:55 Craig Reade
7:55
B. Schatz: 

Oh – and I’m going to forgo the part where I tell you that you’re wrong about the art of Frank Quietly on this book this week – if only for the fact that both Batman and Robin do not appear to have lips on the cover of this very issue.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:55 B. Schatz
7:56
B. Schatz: 

Seriously, look at them.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:56 B. Schatz
7:56
B. Schatz: 

How are they supposed to make out, like the old Batman and Robin?

Monday November 2, 2009 7:56 B. Schatz
7:56
B. Schatz: 

This. Will. Not. STAND.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:56 B. Schatz
7:57
Craig Reade: 

This is the Aughts – there is no making out. Kissing wastes time.

And Quietley was horrible on this book. I’ll take missing lips for semi-clear characters. A 6 year old could do a better job with the art if they had a 64 pack of Crayolas.

Seems par for the course with Morrison for me these days though – he has some strong ideas, but he also has some real stinkers. You always have to take the good with the bad here.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:57 Craig Reade
7:58

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Monday November 2, 2009 7:58 
7:58
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Green Lantern Corps #41, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 10/14/09  ON TIME 

Written by Peter J. Tomasi, Pencils by Patrick Gleason, Inks by Rebecca Buckman, Tom Nguyen, and Prentis Rollins, Colors by Randy Mayor and Gabe Eltaeb 

 

Soranik and Iolande defend against a Black Lantern infestation in the infirmary, but they are ultimately unsuccessful. In the fight, Soranik transports the wounded to Mogo. Iolande takes over the caravan when Soranik sees that Kyle is taking the worst of Black Lantern Jade’s attack, and moves to assist. Arisia confronts Black Lantern versions of her own family in the Hall of Lanterns, and defeats them, sending three Black Rings flying. Kilowog confronts a Black Lantern Ermey, the legendary Green Lantern that trained him.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 7:58 Craig Reade
7:59
B. Schatz: 

So, let’s translate this into how I read this issue. Doctor Boobs is all defending these dying corps members, Guy deals with Horns McGuffin and the insect dude, Kyle gets raped by his ex, and Skirty-Hoosits gets into some troubles with her family, including an odd panel of her falling with her legs wide and her dad being, like… right there. The Poozemiester punches some dudes and an Indigo Lantern appears.

Monday November 2, 2009 7:59 B. Schatz
7:59
Craig Reade: 

I did forget to mention Black Lantern Rape… my bad!

Monday November 2, 2009 7:59 Craig Reade
8:00
B. Schatz: 

It’s almost as if you’re ashamed of Rape Craig. Never be ashamed of Rape.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:00 B. Schatz
8:00
B. Schatz: 

Granted, I just covered the same ground Craig just did, but really, I had no clue who he was talking about.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:00 B. Schatz
8:01
B. Schatz: 

I should really get a chart going, for this book and Nova, and pop it up on the next edition.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:01 B. Schatz
8:01
Craig Reade: 

Really, the only thing wrong with this book is the sheer amount of chaos. There are so many strong characters, and so few panels to give them all justice. There were some art ticks – I have to admit there were a couple times where some of the male Lanterns were tough to distinguish, but I still stand by my position that this is the real Blackest Night story – that other shame is just cage lining.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:01 Craig Reade
8:01
B. Schatz: 

It’s selling miles below both Green Lantern and Blackest Night, which really sucks. I kind’ve understand why this wasn’t the main story, as it’s focused down onto a core (albeit large) cast, whereas the other books are more concerned about the broad strokes. What we’re ending up with is a story here, where you feel attached to the characters and this story’s outcome for them, while elsewhere, the proceedings are too cold and broad to really start caring about certain characters – that is, unless you were already a fan of that particular brand of Firestorm or Aqua-person or whatever.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:01 B. Schatz
8:02
Craig Reade: 

I am ashamed of Rape! His appearances of late have been WEAK! I like my villains strong and manly, not pansy and metrosexual. Imagine… Rape asking for permission.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:02 Craig Reade
8:03
Craig Reade: 

The fact that of the three, this title sells the least out of the event just proves to me that comic fans remain idiots. Granted, All Star Batman’s Sales convinced me of that long ago, but this remains further proof.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:03 Craig Reade
8:03
B. Schatz: 

The only time that sould happen is if he was asking permission to be straight up BADASS before giving someone the business.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:03 B. Schatz
8:03
Craig Reade: 

There are exceptions to every rule, of course.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:03 Craig Reade
8:04
Craig Reade: 

Anyway – on to the best issue of the month…

Monday November 2, 2009 8:04 Craig Reade
8:04

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Monday November 2, 2009 8:04 
8:04
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Nomad: Girl Without a World #2 (of 4), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 10/14/09 ON TIME

Written by Sean McKeever, Pencils by David Baldeon, Colors by Chris Sotomayor

 

Rikki talks about Desmond Daniels’ strange influence over some of the other students. Just as she makes a real connection with another student named John, Flag-Smasher blows up an Army Recruiting Center across the street. Nomad leaps into action, and does well – until Flag-Smasher sets some rubble falling towards some civilians. Nomad moves to make the save, and Flag-Smasher beats a retreat – only to be stopped by Falcon.

 

Back in school, Desmond Daniels interrupts class with an impromptu speech – and we learn that a group known as The Secret Empire are, in part, behind his actions. Rikki finally visits John after he gets out of the hospital, and he makes his move, but Rikki dishes out the most violent and crushing of rejections… “You are like a brother to me.” The end of the issue finds John joining up with a group of Desmond’s most radical supporters.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:04 Craig Reade
8:04
B. Schatz: 

We covered this when McKeever’s Teen Titans were on this list, but Sean’s work at DC? I don’t think it worked out quite well. This book is a definite return to form, and this issue, I would say, is even better than the first.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:04 B. Schatz
8:04
B. Schatz: 

And can I just say? Kudos on the level of awkwardness present in this title. There are some hard-fought moments here, and none of them feel schmaltzy.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:04 B. Schatz
8:05
Craig Reade: 
 

 

I honestly love the hero coming in and beating up the guy doing the soap-boxing in the comic. Too often these days, comic writers use their story as a platform for their own preaching – here it’s the villain, and he gets wasted. Just the image I was waiting for.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:05 Craig Reade
8:05
Craig Reade: 
 

 

But then again – Desmond Daniels is seeming a lot like Barack Obama. While I find the parallels between he and his supporters and Obama and his amusing, I don’t necessarily need my politics in comics. HOWEVER – if it is going to be done, I like it subtle, and this definitely is. There are parallels, but it could be purely coincidental. So, as politics in comics go, if we are going to have it, I’d rather it be like this.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:05 Craig Reade
8:05
Craig Reade: 
 

 

This series is outstanding, plain and simple. The pacing is perfect (meaning, things actually happen, and we don’t get padding described as “deliberate pacing”), the story is engaging, and there is a perfect balance between Nomad’s costumed life and her “secret identity.” McKeever’s doing an awesome job on this book – it is a great example that more comics should follow. Sadly, since it isn’t crap, it means that no one will buy it and after the title ends the concept will fade into obscurity. At least we will get these 4 issues. It is worth noting that Marvel has no mention of Nomad #3 on their site at all. There is a listing for #4 in December, but #3 is non-existent. Frustrating.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:05 Craig Reade
8:05
B. Schatz: 

You know, I honestly didn’t get the Obama-vibe… I can certainly see the parallel (Nobel Peace Prize, anyone?) but this to me just seemed like more of the story than anything else.

Starting in January, this character gets a back-up in the pages of Ed Brubaker’s Cap, written and drawn by this team. Seriously, it’s the best thing Marvel could do for this book.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:05 B. Schatz
8:05
Craig Reade: 

But as I said – easily the best issue of the month. High praise for your object of affection.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:05 Craig Reade
8:05
B. Schatz: 

*waves coy at Sean*

Monday November 2, 2009 8:05 B. Schatz
8:06
Craig Reade: 

Indeed. That might be a reason to check out Cap once again.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:06 Craig Reade
8:06
B. Schatz: 

Agreed!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:06 B. Schatz
8:06
Craig Reade: 

Seriously – this is a well done comic book… if you ain’t buying it, you are a retard.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:06 Craig Reade
8:06

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Monday November 2, 2009 8:06 
8:06
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth #4, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 10/21/09 ON TIME

Written by Victor Gishler, Art by Bong Dazo, Colors by Matt Milla, Inks by José Pimentel 

 

Deadpool faces off against the Zombie T-Rex while Doctor betty flees with the head of Zombie Deadpool. Deadpool barely survives, thanks to the assist from an AIM orbital weapons platform named Prometheus. The reunited duo-and-a-half escape aboard a HYDRA lander, and Hydra moves in to intercept.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:06 Craig Reade
8:07
B. Schatz: 

Okay – despite many posts that seem to state the contrary, I’m totally a dude who is into the females. I enjoy the gentle clatter of their boozums just as much as the next guy. But seriously? Seriously. The panty-shots are getting to be a bit much, and are distracting me from an otherwise fairly decent story about Deadpool fighting a zombie T-Rex. This, in good conscience, should not be happening.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:07 B. Schatz
8:07
B. Schatz: 

I have to say, if we’re dropping any books this month… I’m really ready to let this one go. It’s definitely okay, but it languishes in the pile until I absolutely have to read it… which is a recipe for a dropped book, IMO.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:07 B. Schatz
8:08
Craig Reade: 

On the opposite end of the spectrum (From Nomad) is this book – I am enjoying it, but there is so much fluff here it is laughable. The nudity seems to be in the same realm as Bomb Queen honestly – sarcastic, little more, but I will agree it has been quite overdone. Otherwise – the book is funny, but I will agree with you that it is something I could do without.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:08 Craig Reade
8:08
Craig Reade: 

I am willing to continue with it for the time being, however.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:08 Craig Reade
8:09

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Monday November 2, 2009 8:09 
8:09
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Invincible Iron Man #19, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 10/21/09 ON TIME 

Written by Matt Fraction, Art by Salvador Larroca, Colors by Frank D’Armata

 

Pepper’s switch is revealed, but not before she puts her rescue plan into effect. Osborne closes in on Tony Stark, and engages the old Mark 0 suit. JARVIS slipped a feed of Osborne’s attack to the media, the realization of which prevents him from dealing the killing blow. Tony’s brain damage takes it final turn, and he slips into a vegetative state. Osborne attempts to have the pug pulled, but he is prevented in doing so by Stark’s living will – which grants power of attorney to Dr. Donald Blake, Thor’s mortal alter ego.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:09 Craig Reade
8:09
B. Schatz: 

Yes! I would say this is exactly what I wanted from this arc’s end, but that would be a lie. I had no idea how Fraction was going to pull all of this off – but he did, and he did a darned good job doing so, touching on a bit of business earlier in the arc in the form of Tony’s living will.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:09 B. Schatz
8:09
B. Schatz: 

Tony clearly wanted to pull this mission without help – perfectly believable, considering the fact that he’s a very proud man, and this whole entire mess was his fault. But to have the foresight to reach out to his friends – putting his faith in them to know what to do after he’s made sure they’re safe… that’s just smart. And the Black Widow/Maria Hill/Pepper Potts stuff was top notch too. I definitely can’t wait for the next issue of this book.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:09 B. Schatz
8:11
Craig Reade: 
 

 

It is an interesting ending – the only trouble I have is that the issue didn’t ahve the punch of an ending. The end of the issue FELT like a to be continued, and as lazily as this arc has been progressing, we needed something with a little more oomph.

I can’t agree more – he has handled Hill and Potts with incredible grace… Black Widow seems like an afterthought, but she is a welcome addition.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:11 Craig Reade
8:12
Craig Reade: 

Overall, I really can’t complain though. The story, while slow, has been outstanding. I still can’t believe I like an   Iron Man book this much.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:12 Craig Reade
8:13
B. Schatz: 

Same here. Between Fraction, Aaron and McKeever, I think I’ve managed to get all my man crushes onto this list…

Monday November 2, 2009 8:13 B. Schatz
8:13
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Indeed you have!

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:13 Craig Reade
8:13

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Monday November 2, 2009 8:13 
8:13
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Power Girl #6, $2.99, DC Comics. Due out 10/21/09 ON TIME 

Written by Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray, Art by Amanda Conner, Colors by Paul Mounts

 

We find out that the three alien women are in fact the daughters of an Emperor on Vega 7, and the man attempting to apprehend them was something of a minder. The Minder eventually tracks the girls to Atlantic City, where they get involved with a mobster who has been marked for death. Of course, it is all sorted out in the end, and the alien castaways are set up in Rio.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:13 Craig Reade
8:14
B. Schatz: 

As always, this book is just plain old fashioned fun. Unfortunately for me, it’s not really hitting anywhere in my wheelhouse – which might surprise some of you, considering a chunk of this issue is devoted to more feminine pursuits.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:14 B. Schatz
8:14
B. Schatz: 

My kind of fun is taking place in Ghost Riders right now – and could very well take place in this title in the future.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:14 B. Schatz
8:14
B. Schatz: 

A tip? Have Power Girl hire Abraham Lincoln as your fashion/crazy science advisor. I’m giving you that for free, boys. Run with it.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:14 B. Schatz
8:15
B. Schatz: 

(By the way – when I win a bajillion dollars? I’m making that Abe Lincoln thing happen for me.)

Monday November 2, 2009 8:15 B. Schatz
8:15
Craig Reade: 

I actually rate this book alongside Deadpool actually. But its done much better. Pure fluff and fun. It is going to get to the point where we need to pick one, and of the two, I think Power Girl is going to win.

Still – I find myself with little to say about this issue. There was so little tension. Fun, but nothing to really write about.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:15 Craig Reade
8:15
Craig Reade: 

I strongly endorse Abe Lincoln.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:15 Craig Reade
8:15
B. Schatz: 

As should we all, Craig.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:15 B. Schatz
8:15
B. Schatz: 

As should we all.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:15 B. Schatz
8:16
Craig Reade: 
 

 

I am not sure I endorse Power Girl with a long black beard though…

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:16 Craig Reade
8:16

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Monday November 2, 2009 8:16 
8:16
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Avengers: The Initiative #29, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 10/28/09 ON TIME 

Written by Christos N. Gage, Pencils by Rafa Sandoval, Inks by Roger Bonet, Colors by Edgar Delgado. 

 

A captured Night Thrasher (Donyell) is presented with a deal by Norman Osborne – who claims he can bring his brother (Dwayne) back to life, but for a price. Tigra interrogates Razor-fist in an effort to find Donyell, but is finally aided by a newly human Komodo. Trauma, tired of manipulating Robbie Baldwin, confronts The Hood and demands he hold up his part of the deal, or he would be through. After a brief fight, Taskmaster diffuses the situation. Constrictor has a brush with true heroism. Cloud 9 is reprimanded for failing to kill Night Thrasher, Prodigy is alive and imprisoned, and the New Warriors attack in an effort to free Night Thrasher. Finally, something happens to Trauma, and a new entity emerges, calling itself Nightmare.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:16 Craig Reade
8:16
B. Schatz: 

Which, I am assuming is Trauma possessed by the Doc Strange/Ghost Rider/Incredible Herc villain called Nightmare. But that’s just me being a jerk to Craig.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:16 B. Schatz
8:16
B. Schatz: 

This book has bounced back nicely after what I thought was a rocky ride through the immediate after effects of Secret Invasion. The attention remains divided amoung several characters, but with a heaping helping of forward momentum for all – excluding fake Speedball, but whatever.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:16 B. Schatz
8:18
Craig Reade: 
 

 

The Trauma angle troubles me. I have said many times before that this title has done an amazing job dishing out a strong story despite Marvel’s Event-mania constantly disrupting the story flow. This was keenly felt in the wake of Secret Invasion – so many stories scattering all these characters to the winds. This issue, however..

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:18 Craig Reade
8:18
Craig Reade: 
 

 

finally seemed to be sorting everything out, and approaching a resolution. And then they spring the Trauma possession as a cliffhanger like that. This is not the time for more questions, it is the time for pay-off!

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:18 Craig Reade
8:19
Craig Reade: 

Great issue, dampened by the ending.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:19 Craig Reade
8:19
Craig Reade: 

And I am glad Prodigy still lives, else I would have to bust some ass.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:19 Craig Reade
8:20
B. Schatz: 

Agreed – although, I’m definitely willing to see how that ending plays out.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:20 B. Schatz
8:20
Craig Reade: 

Oh, as am I. This book still has a lot of goodwill in my eyes. Just kevetching…

Monday November 2, 2009 8:20 Craig Reade
8:20

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Monday November 2, 2009 8:20 
8:20
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Nova #30, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 10/28/09 ON TIME 

Written by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning, Pencils by Kevin Sharpe, Inks by Nelson Pereira, Colors by Bruno Hang.

 

Richard and the other Novas attack the Mindless Ones, while the remaining Corpsmen fight off an attack from Ego, who is attempting to shrug them off. We find out a little more about Starstalker after the “Minded One” breaks out of his cell and blows a hole through his chest. Richard manages to dump all the Mindless ones into a Stargate, and Worldmind successfully downloads herself into the Resolute. Ego goes after the refugees in the shuttle, but is stopped when the Mindless Ones appear inside him and begin to attack. In the end, Richard invites Philo to remain as a trainer for the Probationaries. Finally, the Resolute receives a telepathic summons to capture Darkhawk (On behalf of the Shi’ar).

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:20 Craig Reade
8:20
B. Schatz: 

In keeping with my annotations of the space books on this list, here’s my little summary of the book’s events. Our Nova starts fighting these Mindless Ones lookalikes while Gay Falconer hits on the girl with the overly large head. Then he and Green Skin and Douche Ponytail head out and punch stuff. Meanwhile, Ego’s acting up and such, and Worldmind is dropping sass. Problems get solved when Nova folds the two together, and find a neat solution for all.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:20 B. Schatz
8:21
B. Schatz: 

Looks like we’re still saying this one is a great bet (it is), without much to add.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:21 B. Schatz
8:21
Craig Reade: 

YOu really need to work on your Nova names I think… your Green Lantern Corps names are much more entertaining.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:21 Craig Reade
8:21
Craig Reade: 

Indeed. She’s awesome. Moving on.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:21 Craig Reade
8:22
B. Schatz: 

Man, when I get to the end of these things, I get a little tired. :) I’ll get some better ones ready for next time.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:22 B. Schatz
8:22
Craig Reade: 

You’d best!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:22 Craig Reade
8:23
Craig Reade: 

It would seem my Wolverine Cover has vanished! I think we can do without.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:23 Craig Reade
8:23
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Wolverine: Weapon X #6, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 10/28/09 ON TIME

Written by Jason Aaron, Pencils by Yanick Paquette, Inks by Michael Lacombe, Color by Nathan Fairbairn.

 

Well, the “Previously” page is a little intimidating – but at least there is one. We start with Logan in a straightjacket, in an insane asylum, suffering from amnesia. Well, not the usual kind… he has remembers little at all, and what memories he has of his actual life seems too fantastic to be real. After an incident, Logan is allowed to roam free again, but soon wonders into an area of the sanatorium that is deemed off limits. One of the inmates attempts to escape – and Logan finds him the next day with a vicious line of stitches across his skull. Meanwhile, the patients are given a variety of “medicine” in the form of buttons, an eraser, jelly beans, and life savers.

 

One patient is reluctantly released – but returns 6 hours later with a sack of human brains for his doctor.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:23 Craig Reade
8:24
B. Schatz: 

See, the thing I like about Jason Aaron’s Wolverine stories… in opposition to all other Wolverine stories… is the fact that he at least tries to find a different story.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:24 B. Schatz
8:24
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Different definitely describes this. I am not sure I like it though… but I am chalking most of my problems up to missing the previous issue.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:24 Craig Reade
8:25
Craig Reade: 
 

 

I’m definitely willing to give this one a few more issues.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:25 Craig Reade
8:25
B. Schatz: 

Not entirely. You need to know nothing coming into this story. Nothing carries over, really. It’s just Wolverine in a horror story, it seems.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:25 B. Schatz
8:26
Craig Reade: 

Yeah – it wasn’t one of those instances where the lack of knowlege really hurt the story, but how Logan got there and why he has no memory isn’t really addressed.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:26 Craig Reade
8:26
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Anyway – that’s our last issue of the month – on to next month’s titles!

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:26 Craig Reade
8:26
Craig Reade: 
 

 

The List So Far

 

Jonah Hex #49, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/04/09

Nova #31, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/04/09

Ghost Riders: Heavens Fire #4 (of 6), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due out 11/04/09

Batman and Robin #6, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 11/11/09 

Green Lantern Corps #42, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/11/09

Nomad: The Girl Without A World #3, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth #5, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 Wolverine: Weapon X #7, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/18/09

Invincible Iron Man #20, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/25/09  

Avengers: The Initiative #30, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/25/09

Power Girl #7, $2.99, DC Comics. Due out 12/16/09 

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:26 Craig Reade
8:27
Craig Reade: 
 

 

The Math

 

$2.89 (Bank from October) + $40 (November Budget) = $42.89

$42.89  - $33.90  (November  issues) – $2.63 (tax) = $6.36 Banked for December

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:27 Craig Reade
8:27
Craig Reade: 
 

 

- The Chopping Block & New Titles

 

Well, thanks to Power Girl going on hiatus for a month in November, and despite Invincible Iron Man jumping to $3.99 for this coming month, we have plenty of room for a new book without having to cut. Huzzah! So, unless there is something you want to drop…

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:27 Craig Reade
8:28
B. Schatz: 

Urmm… nothing I feel super passionate about. All these books are solid enough to let ride another month.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:28 B. Schatz
8:28
Craig Reade: 
 

 

New Titles

 

Doctor Horrible #1, $3.50, DC Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 

 

Here is my thinking on this one – We seem to have a solid group of titles right now – the only one I am uncertain about is Wolverine: Weapon X… which is a new book, and deserves a month. Ghost Riders has a few months left, and Nomad has 2, so we will be missing a few minis early next year. Plus, at this price point, this means that next month, after Power Girl Returns and Iron Man drops back to its regular price, we will have enough in the bank to ride out December without having to drop a title – giving us breathing room until January when Nomad is over.

 

Holding off on a change seems like the best move. This issue is a one-shot, and looks like a bit of fun. Your thoughts?

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:28 Craig Reade
8:29
B. Schatz: 

I’m in. Dr. Horrible was freaking awesome, and more from that universe makes me happy. Apparently, when they got their junk together, a sequel is in the works.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:29 B. Schatz
8:30
Craig Reade: 
 

 

That is what I hear – and the Captain Hammer short in MySpace Presents Dark Horse was decent. I think this will be a great diversion.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 Craig Reade
8:30
Craig Reade: 

With that –

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 Craig Reade
8:30
Craig Reade: 
 

 

The Math

 

Jonah Hex #49, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/04/09

Nova #31, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/04/09

Ghost Riders: Heavens Fire #4 (of 6), $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due out 11/04/09

Batman and Robin #6, $2.99, DC Comics Due Out 11/11/09 

Green Lantern Corps #42, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/11/09

Nomad: The Girl Without A World #3, $3.99, DC Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 

Deadpool: Merc With a Mouth #5, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 Wolverine: Weapon X #7, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/18/09

Doctor Horrible #1, $3.50, DC Comics. Due Out 11/18/09 

Invincible Iron Man #20, $3.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/25/09  

Avengers: The Initiative #30, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 11/25/09

Power Girl #7, $2.99, DC Comics. Due out 12/16/09 

 

 

$2.89 (Bank from October) + $40 (November Budget) = $42.89

$42.89  - $37.40   (November  issues) – $2.90 (tax) = $2.59 Banked for December

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 Craig Reade
8:30
Craig Reade: 

There is your list for next month – do make sure to let your Comic Shop know what you need!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 Craig Reade
8:30
B. Schatz: 

Nice. Hey, so it looks like the Phillies score the most touchdowns!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 B. Schatz
8:30
B. Schatz: 

They are my favourite. I hope they score all the touchdowns.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 B. Schatz
8:30
Craig Reade: 
 

 

Something like that.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:30 Craig Reade
8:31
Craig Reade: 

I figured we had so many LOYAL readers who decided to watch this instead of the World Series, that I would post the scores.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:31 Craig Reade
8:31
Craig Reade: 

Thank all of you for choosing us!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:31 Craig Reade
8:31
B. Schatz: 

They are my favourite. I hope they score all the touchdowns.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:31 B. Schatz
8:32
Craig Reade: 

Well, they scored the ones that mattered this time, my fine Canadian partner.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:32 Craig Reade
8:32
Craig Reade: 
 

 

But that game is over, and so is this column.

 

Monday November 2, 2009 8:32 Craig Reade
8:32
B. Schatz: 

Awesome! And in record time, or something!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:32 B. Schatz
8:32
Craig Reade: 

Thanks for reading! And you suckers that watched the game, you can still comment if you like. We promise not to make fun of you.

Monday November 2, 2009 8:32 Craig Reade
8:32
B. Schatz: 

Stay frosty hosers!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:32 B. Schatz
8:32
Craig Reade: 

Indeed. 47 Minutes and we out! Goodnight!

Monday November 2, 2009 8:32 Craig Reade
8:33

 

 

 

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