On The Shelf This Week - 07.16.08
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Order any of the below titles by clicking here!
FINAL CRISIS ROGUES REVENGE #1 (OF 3), $3.99, DC Comics, 40 Pages
Written by Geoff Johns; Art and covers by Scott Kolins
OK, so Final Crisis isn’t what it was cracked up to be. Few really thought it would - but if we have learned anything over the past could years of Major Event Mania, it’s that there are often little gems to be found in the tie-ins to the major events. This might be one of them.
It is hard to forget Geoff Johns’ outstanding run on the Flash - he is still missed on that book, in fact. That is a perfect reason to give him a chance here - he has proven he can write a fantastic Flash story, especially when it involves the Rogues. Of course, DC is promoting that horrible “It is a Crisis, so a Flash has to die” thing again, which could be a bad tiding for this story, but we can hope that DC has learned from its mistake last time here. Johns is the best Flash writer in recent memory - this series should be a safe bet.
FOOLKILLER WHITE ANGELS #1 (OF 5), $3.99, 32 Pages, Marvel Comics (MAX)
Written by Gregg Hurwitz, Art by Paul Azaceta
The last Foolkiller series was semi-decent. Not quite as thought provoking as Gerber’s original (this one seemed more Punisher), but if you like gory, violent comics, you probably enjoyed the last one. It didn’t win any stellar reviews, but sales must have been good enough to warrant a second run.
Of course, speaking of Punisher, this series is heavily hinting that Frank will be making an appearance in this story, crossing paths with Foolkiller as he hunts down a White Supremacist gang. Hopefully Hurwitz takes this opportunity to contrast some of the differences between the two characters, to put to rest the notion that the Foolkiller is little more than a Punisher clone.
HELLBLAZER #246, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics
Written by Jason Aaron; Art by Sean Murphy; Cover by Lee Bermejo
It might have been a bit of a downer to get a fill-in arc so early into Diggle’s run, but this one hasn’t turned out too bad so far. Of course, Jason Aaron’s name just kinda popped on the map - he has a creator-owned title (Scalped) being put out by Vertigo that is getting good reviews, and he just signed an exclusive with Marvel, and is already drawing Eisner nominations. Some decent credentials to say the least. Looks like this is one fill-in worth checking out.
For those who are still pining for Diggle’s return - you will get than next month. Just a little longer!
MIGHTY AVENGERS #16, $2.99, 32 Pages, Marvel Comics
Written by Brian Michael Bendis, Art by Khoi Pham and Jason Keith
Well, it probably isn’t as important of a mystery as Marvel would like you to believe, but in terms of retcon, it will be interesting to see how far back Marvel is going to introduce this Elektra-Skrull thing. Was she a Skrull back during that horrible Enemy of the State Wolverine story? Even farther? This issue is supposed to answer that question, and tell us exactly when Elektra was replaced. Probably not enough of a resolution to attract new readers, but if you are really into the Secret Invasion story, this is an issue you can’t miss.
SKY DOLL #3 (OF 3), $5.99, Marvel Comics
Written by Barbara Canepa, Alessandro Barbucci, and C.B. Cebulski, Art by Alessandro Barbucci and Barbara Canepa
The worst part of this? This is the last Sky-Doll for a while. Issue #4 hasn’t even been released in Europe yet! You would think that Soliel was Image Comics or something - they have been working on issue #4 since before Sky-Doll was originally released in America 2 years ago in Heavy Metal Magazine. Frustrating - this is a great story with a lot of complexity and flat-out beautiful art. Should Marvel have waited to release this one? Maybe - but then, 
considering how long it has been since #3 was first released in Europe.
Hopefully Canepa steps up the pace on production, so we can see the rest of this story before it fades away into distant memory.
SPOTLIGHT PICK OF THE WEEK
UNIVERSAL WAR ONE #1 (OF 3), $5.99, Marvel Comics
Written by Denis Bajram and Paul Benjamin, Art by Denis Bajram
Well, Sky-Doll has been outstanding - makes spending the money on this new Soliel release that much easier. This series looks like it will have more of a hard sci-fi angle than the cultural sci-fi we see in Sky Doll, retelling a civil war between the outer and inner planets of the Solar System. Hm, sounds a little like Firefly. Unlike Firefly, in this series, a strange wall has divided the warring planets, and this series follows a crew who has been sent to investigate the mysterious phenomenon. Sounds interesting - a good sci-fi premise. This story has received its share of acclaim overseas, so it must be something worth checking out. Could be a good read.
DC COMICS
BATMAN AND THE OUTSIDERS #9 $2.99 Now: $2.69
CHECKMATE #28 $2.99 Now: $2.59
COUNTDOWN TO FINAL CRISIS TP VOL 02 $19.99 Now: $15.99
FINAL CRISIS ROGUES REVENGE #1 (OF 3) $3.99 Now: $3.49
FLASH #242 $2.99 Now: $2.69
HELLBLAZER #246 $2.99 Now: $2.59
WORLD OF WARCRAFT #9 $2.99 Now: $2.69
DEVIL’S DUE COMICS
FORGOTTEN REALMS THE LEGACY #3 (OF 3) $5.50 Now: $4.99
WORLDS OF DUNGEONS & DRAGONS TP VOL 01 $18.99 Now: $15.99
MARVEL COMICS
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #566 $2.99 Now: $2.69
FOOLKILLER WHITE ANGELS #1 (OF 5) $3.99 Now: $3.49
IRON MAN DIRECTOR OF SHIELD #31 $2.99 Now: $2.69
MARVEL ILLUSTRATED ILIAD #8 (OF 8) $2.99 Now: $2.59
MIGHTY AVENGERS #16 $2.99 Now: $2.69
SKAAR SON OF HULK #1 2ND PTG $2.99 Now: $2.59
SKY DOLL #3 (OF 3) $5.99 Now: $4.99
ULTIMATE FANTASTIC FOUR #56 $2.99 Now: $2.69
ULTIMATE X-MEN TP VOL 18 APOCALYPSE $13.99 Now: $11.99
UNIVERSAL WAR ONE #1 (OF 3) $5.99 Now: $5.39
WAR IS HELL FIRST FLIGHT PHANTOM EAGLE MAX #5 (OF 5) $3.99 Now: $3.49
X-FACTOR #33 $2.99 Now: $2.69
FAVREAU UP FOR ANOTHER
The Iron Man film to me has been the shock of the summer - perhaps it was my low expectations, but of the comic films that have been released thus-far, it has been the most enjoyable. We will see how that holds up once I see Hellboy (and Batman is released), but it is a great start.
That makes this news all the better - Jon Favreau has officially signed to direct the sequel. It might seem like that was going to happen regardless, but after Marvel released a tentative date for the sequel hitting theaters without even contacting Favreau to secure his services (and later accusations of Marvel dodging and a lowball contract offer: all rumors), there was some fear that studio-director conflict might put an end to that partnership and place the film in the hands of a new director. Comic movie-goers certainly can think of a few examples of the worst that can happen with a popular franchise gets a new director.
But it is all happy and good - Favreau is on for the sequel, and we will likely see it in 2010, if not the next year if things don’t go smoothly!
NOTE: Opinions here may not reflect those of X-World Comics LLC or its staff and are solely the opinions of the writer.
Post your comments in the Forum!
July 7, 2008
On The Shelf In September 2008
DARK HORSE COMICS
Pre-order any of the below titles by clicking here!
Page 26 - Solomon Kane #1 (of 5), $2.99, 32 Pages
Written by Scott Allie, Art by Mario Guevara, Dave Stewart, Joe Kubert, and John Cassaday
Pretty well everyone out there has at least a passing familiarity with Robert Howard’s most popular and enduring creation, Conan the Barbarian. Some might not be so familiar with some of the other characters he created. Solomon Kane was seem mostly in Weird Tales and Red Shadows, and the character was later portrayed in comic form by Marvel in several different titles over a couple decades.
The history lesson aside, there is an easy way to see if this book will be for you - Dark Horse has posted an 8 Page Solomon Kane story (by the same creative team as the mini) on their Dark Horse Presents Myspace Page. Check it out - the story isn’t bad, and it has a strange cowboy/fantasy feel. There is definitely an audience out there for this.
DC COMICS
Pre-order any of the below titles by clicking here!
Page 58 - DC Universe: Decisions #1 (of 4), $2.99, 32 Pages
Written by Judd Winick & Bill Willingham, Art by Rick Leonardi
Politics. Sometimes (well, lately), it is the bane of comics. Political viewpoints are often a good way to bring depth to a character, but all-too-often these days we have seen writers not use political ideologies to do that, but rather to soapbox about some current event they feel the need to preach about. Not good.
Politics is undeniably a part of the DCU, in some fashion, but it usually is presented much better. The Hawkman/Green Arrow political feud is the classic example of this - Both fall on opposite sides of the political spectrum ideology-wise, but both are heroes who respect one another in the end. It isn’t too often that you see a writer abuse a Green Arrow story by using it to make some point about how evil Bush, or some other Republican is, or another use Hawkman to alienate Liberal readers. The basic ideologies are there, but the best stories remain untainted by current events.
Hopefully, this mini continues the trend of having DC exist in its own political bubble - the one that elected Luthor President in 2000, and not some quasi-realistic reality where there are strong similarities to the current real political environment. Willingham has a good history of the “good” kind of political presentation in comics, and the balance between a right-leaning Willingham and a left-leaning Winick should keep things on an even keel. I am not sure I ever really wanted to know if Batman and Superman were Republicans or Democrats, but if we were going to find out, might as well make it a good story. Hopefully Winick and Willingham deliver here.
Page 63 - Secret Six #1, $2.99, 32 Pages
Written by Gail Simone, Art by Nicola Scott and Doug Hazlewood
A new Secret Six series is good, especially penned by Gail Simone. Catman and Ragdoll don’t get nearly enough exposure these days, and she does such a good job with the characters. Of course, there will be two new members - DC is starting to do the same kind of redacting in the solicits that Marvel does these days (really kind of annoying - either write the solicit with no spoilers or tell us if it is so important!), so who they are will be a surprise. This is a strong team with a good recent history - this issue should be a good one to pick up.
Page 64 - El Diablo #1 (of 6), $2.99, 32 Pages
Written by Jai Nitz, Art by Phil Hester & Ande Parks
Recently we have seen Jai Nitz as the writer of the “all-Spanish” issue of Blue Beetle - before that, he was writing the Batman Strikes comic… maybe not the best resume, but a series like this is a good place to start. The series is going to feature a new El Diablo named Chato Santana, a criminal, who in the present day gets involved with a somehow still living Lazarus Lane, the original El Diablo. It would have almost been preferable to get a new Lazarus Lane series set at the same time as Jonah Hex, but that doesn’t mean this series will be bad, per se. Could be worth a peak.
Page 67 - Superman #680, $2.99, 32 Pages
Written by James Robinson, Art by Renato Guedes and José Wilson Magalhaes
Robinson got his start on issue #677 this past month, and already the jitters are gone. It looks like Superman is in safe hands - and Krypto as well! Superpets in general are a bad idea, but for some reason Krypto just works, and when he is used properly, great things result. This issue might be an example of that as the Canine of Steel takes center stage to step up for a fallen Superman. Good stuff.
Page 78 - Jonah Hex #35, $2.99, 32 Pages.
Written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray, Art by J.H. Williams III
One of the only real drawbacks of this title has been the rotating art teams - well, it looks like in September, we will be getting a good one. Promethea readers will remember J.H. Williams III - and while Promethea as a complete story fell apart and ultimately was a failure, the art on that tile was always amazing. If he brings that level of quality to this issue, it is going to be a real treat to look at. The story should be good - as always - hopefully Williams doesn’t ruin us for the artists that are sure to follow on this title.
Page 87 - The Spirit: Femmes Fatale TP, $19.99, 192 Pages
By Will Eisner
So there is a Spirit movie coming out this December - heard about it? There is a teaser trailer out… go ahead - check it out…
OK, now that you are done screaming, take a little solice. This trade will be out in October - you can keep it handy and read The Spirit - clean and pure, as Will Eisner intended, instead of going to the movies to see Sin City 2.
Now Sin City was a good movie. But The Spirit is not Sin City, it should never be done in the style of Sin City, and Frank Miller shouldn’t be allowed to go anywhere near it. It is almost like blasphemy.
Sorry - so much anger about this. There are just some things you don’t ruin. It was scary enough when Darwyn Cooke started the new Spirit series, and he is someone who’s credentials when it comes to classic remakes can only be described as “impeccable.” The fact that anyone let the man responsible for All Star Batman anywhere near the Spirit is impossible to believe. What is next - Chuck Austen and Howard Chaykin on a Mary Marvel movie?
Deep breath - back to The Spirit trade… ah yes, 23 stories to wash the pain away…
IMAGE COMICS
Pre-order any of the below titles by clicking here!
Page 132 - Back to Brooklyn #1 (of 5), $2.99, 32 Pages
Written by Garth Ennis and Jimmy Palmiotti, Art by Mihailio Vukelic
Not quite the Punisher, but this looks like it will definitely satisfy those fans who are still mourning Ennis’s departure from the Punisher comic. There are a few advance pages of this comic in the recent Previews and they look pretty good. It follows one brother, under arrest and giving up his other brother to the police. Only he ends up killing all the police who are sent after him. So Bob asks to go after his brother himself. Could be an interesting, if violent read.
Page 138 - Four Eyes #1, $3.50, 24 Pages
Written by Joe Kelly, Art by Max Fiumara
Talk about a twist in a concept - this story is about a ten year old boy in Brooklyn during the Great Depression who must sacrifice to take care of his mother. Sounds like a nice, introspective, historical character story, no? Only the job he takes is training dragons in the Ring of Fire for combat! Certainly an inventive idea to say the least…
Page 144 - Kick Drum Comix #1 (of 2), $5.99, 48 Pages
By Jim Mahfood
There are few more original creators in comics today than Jim Mahfood. It has been a couple years, but it looks as if we are finally getting a new original work by him. It also looks like Justin Stewart will be doing the ink and color on at least the cover of #2 (I don’t see him credited on #1, but it is hard to miss that “Stew” on the side of the drum) - which is great news indeed.
Mahfood is a dense read just because of the pure chaos in his art - every inch of his pages is full of little tidbits. Take your time with this one, and you will enjoy it.
MARVEL COMICS
Pre-order any of the below titles by clicking here!
Page M3 - The Stand: Captain Trips #1 (of 5), $3.99, 32 Pages
Written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, Art by Mike Perkins
Page M7 - Dark Tower: Treachery #1 (of 6), $3.99, 40 Pages
Written by Robin Furth and Peter David, Art by Jae Lee and Richard Isanove
Well - it looks like the Dark Tower adaptations have been really popular, so why not try another Stephen King epic? This will most likely be the first of several mini arcs (I can’t imagine adapting The Stand in just 5 issues). Yet another Dark Tower mini begins this month as well, so there will be plenty this month to keep you King fans out there busy. If you missed the start of the Dark Tower and are now regretting it, here is another opportunity not to miss.
Page M6 - Samurai #1 (of 4), $5.99, 56 Pages
Written by Jean-Francois Di Giorgio and Jake Forbes, Art by Frederic Genet
Another new Soliel book getting its start this month is Samurai - which is quite obviously set in feudal Japan. SkyDoll has proven to be a strong opening effort for this European line. Even with the smaller pages, the art is still beautiful and the story doesn’t seem to suffer much at all from the translation. Similar hopes for Samurai - of course, samurai stories are often a dime a dozen, but this story was a bestseller in Europe for a reason. There is certainly an affinity for Japanese culture here in America - the Samurai has always been a popular subject matter in stories, so the interest is there. It will be interesting to see a European take on the genre. Hopefully it holds up well in the American format.
Page M10 - Ultimate X-Men/Fantastic Four Annual #1, $3.99, 48 Pages
Written by Aron Coleite & Joe Pokaski, Art by Brandon Peterson
Everyone else is having their spectacular events, why not the Ultimate Universe? (One might answer that one of the good things about the Ultimate Universe has been that stories weren’t constantly broken up for major events, but we will let that one rest a while). This is the first of two Annuals this month that will tie into “Ultimatum” - the second being Ultimate Fantastic Four/X-Men Annual #1. Confusing? It sure is. I see what they are trying to accomplish there, but the titles do need work. About Ultimatum, I wonder, will we get to see the Ultimate Underground Liberated Totally Integrated Mobile Army To Unite Mankind? I suppose that would be U.U.L.T.I.M.A.T.U.M…. so I guess that wouldn’t work. If you intend to be following this Ultimate X-Men and Fantastic Four crossover, you definitely need to pick up both of these issues.
Page M18 - Big Hero 6 #1 (of 5), $3.99, 48 Pages
Written by Chris Claremont, Art by David Nakayama
Big Hero 6 - basically, Japan’s Alpha Flight. This mini will feature 4 of the original members (minus Silver Samurai and Sunfire), but who the remaining two are is yet unrevealed. Probably safe to say that they will ne new characters, since I can’t seem to recognize them on the cover. I do say that I like David Nakayama’s idea to push the art in a more manga-influenced direction. Some might look at that as a bit of pandering to the fans of Manga, but it really makes some sense. Perhaps not as a permanent change, but it is something worthy trying. Overall, it does kind of have the look of a couple old Tsunami books like Sentinel and Runaways - not sure if the tone is going to be the same, but that line had a lot of good titles, so it isn’t a bad thing to hope for.
Page M34 - Marvel Apes #1 (of 4), $3.99, 40 Pages
Written by Karl Kesel, Art by Ramon Bachs
It’s a fact - when it comes to Simians, DC is miles ahead of Marvel. Is this the first step towards a level playing field? Marvel Apes recalls the old J.L.Ape crossover DC did some years back, with more of a Marvel Zombies flare. In this story, there is an alternate universe where the other simian species rule, and humans don’t exist at all. This series is going to be completely ridiculous, and as long as you go into it with that in mind, it is sure to be enjoyable. There is nothing at all wrong with silly - as long as it is fun. This should be that. High cover price, but there are extra pages, a back-up story, and no ads, so you get every penny.
Page 44 - Deadpool #1, $3.99, 48 Pages
Written by Daniel Way, Art by Paco Medina
Deadpool’s solo book is finally here. Granted - it isn’t the ideal situation. It is tough coming off of Fabian Nicieza’s excellent portrayal, but Way did a passable job with the character during his arc on Wolverine Origins. And Medina is a solid artist - way, way better than Steve Dillion, who was supposed to be on this book. Thank heaven for small favors. So it might not be perfect, but it is far and away better than no Deadpool at all, so it’s a start. This series is starting right off with a Secret Invasion tie in - also not ideal, but if anyone has experience saving the planet from an alien threat, its Deadpool, right? High hopes for this one. Two issues will be out this month, so look for them both.
Page M60 - Sub-Mariner: The Depths #1, $3.99, 32 Pages
Written by Peter Milligan, Art by Esad Ribic
A new Marvel Knights mini, this time with a darker look at Namor, the Sub-Mariner. This series looks like it could be a really good one - it will follow the story of Randolph Stein, a deep-sea explorer, who is lost deep in the sea near the Marianes trench. There he finds - well, as you might have guessed, Atlantis. His experiences will be the core of this story. This should be a more… realistic look at Namor (well, as realistic as he can be) which will make an excellent fantasy tale. Looking forward to this.
Page M64 - The Twelve #1/2, $3.99, 48 Pages
Written by Joe Simon, Joe Cal Cagno, & Stan Lee, Art by Joe Simon, Al Carreno, & Basil Wolverton
A little more color for those of you who are enjoying The Twelve, and wouldn’t mind having a little more background on some of the characters. No new material here - this issue features reprints of old stories from Daring Mystery Comics, Human Torch Comics, and USA Comics - some of the early Fiery Mask, Mister E, and Rockman stories. If you are the type who doesn’t like reprints, this is one to avoid. Considering the obscurity of these characters, there is a good chance that you haven’t read any of these stories yet, which might make it more palatable.
INDEPENDENT COMICS
Pre-order any of the below titles by clicking here!
Page 350 - T-Bird and Throttle #1, #3.25, 32 Pages, Viper Comics
By Josh Howard
If there is one indie publisher out there you can count on, its Viper. Sure there are publishers like Oni, who put out good stuff, but their products have a very narrow market. Viper generally has a universal appeal - and they consistently put out quality work that is too often under the radar. (On a side note, did you hear that the Middleman has been made into a TV show on ABC Family? I sure missed that news… I’m actually going to have to watch that channel now?)
Here is a new series from Viper’s original “star,” Josh Howard, of Dead@17 fame. This one looks like a bit of a superhero story - T-Bird being a former astronaut who gained super powers from a mysterious alien device. This one look like it might probably be a “superhero gone wrong” kind of story, at least with public perception. Should be a good one to try out this month.
Craig’s Top Five of the Month
5 - Jonah Hex #35, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics Really looking forward to seeing what J.H. Williams III will do with this issue.
4 - Samurai #1 (of 4), $5.99, 56 Pages Soliel is off to a great start in the States.
3 - Marvel Apes #1 (of 4), $3.99, 40 Pages Comics need to be more fun. Monkeys=fun!
2 - DC Universe: Decisions #1 (of 4), $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics Politics and Comics together are sometimes scary. This might have the right formula though.
1- Deadpool #1, $3.99, 48 Pages, Marvel Comics - The Marvel Universe just isn’t right unless there is a Deadpool ongoing of some kind.
NOTE: Opinions here may not reflect those of X-World Comics LLC or its staff and are solely the opinions of the writer.
Post your comments in the Forum!
June 30, 2008
The $40 Pull List - July 2008
If this is your first time reading the $40 Pull List, I invite you to see how it works by checking out some of the previous month’s editions (listed below). Those will give you a good idea of how the column works, and what you can expect month after month. If you are interested in the “rules” for the Pull-List, check out the very first column, the 01/07 edition. It isn’t too complicated, though, so just dive right in if you don’t feel like reading back issues! In addition, this column contains Spoilers, so if you are waiting for the trade, read at your own risk!
01/07 - 02/07 - 03/07 - 04/07 - 05/07 - 06/07 - 07/07 - 08/07 - 09/07 - 10/07 - 11/07 - 12/07
01/08 - 02/08 - 03/08 - 04/08 - 05/08 - 06/08
In a word - incredible. I can’t remember a month this good since the Pull List began. Every title was on time. Every issue was outstanding. Have we just reached perfection here, or was it a lucky month? Unfortunately, all good things must end - since every book was quality this month, and we have to cut one to make room for our new title this month: well, we have a tough decision on our hands. You all see the poll - more on that later!
Manhunter #31, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 06/04/08 ON TIME
Well, it is officially on time, but this issue is about a year late if you ask me. Better late than never I suppose.
The issue started off well - we had a nice 2-page recap of the entire series (for those of you who haven’t been reading from the beginning), and then it was right into the action. Andreyko started this off perfectly - a nice, single-issue threat to bring you in, then some seeds of an ongoing story to hold you over until the next issue. The Blue Beetle team-up seems natural, considering the subject matter … should be a decent arc.
The only thing that was really bothersome was the injection of politics. OK - it is natural that “immigration” is going to come up when thinking of the setting, but is it possible for a writer out there to discuss it without the clichéd “Racist white people harassing the hard working Mexican people” scene? Because really - the issue is way more complicated than that, and using that scene does little more than show a vast ignorance of the issue (meaning he has no real business talking about it). Wanting a secure border does not make one an ignorant racist - there are better ways to address a sensitive issue in a comic than resorting to baseless name-calling.
That problem aside, the issue picked right up where the series last left off. A great read, and definitely safe for a while.
Status: SAFE
Jonah Hex #32, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 06/04/08 ON TIME
Great issue, but terrible art! I have no idea what to say about it, other than Jordi Bernet has done way, way better. It seemed like he was going for a specific look, but whenever the action on the panel got too complicated, the whole layout fell apart. I don’t know if Bernet is to blame, or Rob Schwager, who was doing the colors - I know that sometimes bad ink work can ruin otherwise passable art. I really think it was a mix here - because everything seemed really muddied and scribbled, and perhaps a little restraint in the ink and color could have saved this art. It is worth mentioning, only because bad art has plagued this title for some time. The story is unbelievably good, so that usually will carry an issue, but this title could grow by leaps and bounds with a solid ongoing artist.
Like always - story makes up for quite a bit, and another great story makes another above average issue on its own merits.
Status: SAFE
Invincible Iron Man #2, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 06/04/08 ON TIME
Much like last month, this issue was surprisingly good. It shouldn’t be such a shock - issue #1 was far better than I could have possibly hoped it to be, but there was still part of me that expected it to have been a fluke. Not so.
Being the cynic I am, the first thing I always do when reading a comic book is to try and find something wrong with it. Really - here, nothing comes out. Fraction covers all the bases in the story - using characters familiar to new readers coming in from the movie, yet not talking down to the long time comic readers - tells a story that isn’t dependent upon the rest of the Marvel Universe for context, while at the same time embracing “history” and the Marvel Universe as a whole with his Iron Man/Thor interaction. Add to that some great art and a nice dose of serial storytelling (resolve last issue’s cliffhanger, develop characters, finish with a cliffhanger) makes this an all around great issue. I have a feeling this book will be on the list as long as Matt Fraction is at the helm.
Status: SAFE
House of Mystery #2, $2.99, DC/Vertigo. Due Out 06/04/08 ON TIME
You almost get the feeling reading this issue that part of the genesis of this title’s resurrection was Bill Willingham’s desire to write some new Fables all his own. Not that he doesn’t do a fantastic job - in fact, I can’t think of anyone more qualified to write those interludes, but there is a definite sense that he is trying to flex his muscles within the genre. It is well done thus far in any case - both have been extremely enjoyable with the right amount of fantasy to make it special.
This is the fourth issue this month on the list, and the fourth outstanding read. Hopefully this trend keeps up!
Status: SAFE
Nova #14, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 06/04/08 ON TIME
In some ways, this issue was almost a letdown. Oh, not that it wasn’t good - it really was. Nova at his best. The thing was - we saw his absolute best as he tangled with the Silver Surfer. Perhaps silly, but a lot of Nova fans kind of expected his power level to be a little above “desperately giving it your all just to hang with the Silver Surfer.” Still, not too shabby for a former New Warrior.
There isn’t really much more I can say about this issue outside what has been said already. Abnett & Lanning are doing an outstanding job with Nova - this issue was thrilling, wall-to-wall action. They are really establishing Richard Rider as the kind of hero who doesn’t say no to anything, no matter how impossible the task might seem. Nova hasn’t ever gotten this much respect. It is a welcome change!
Status: SAFE
The Twelve #6, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 06/11/08 ON TIME
Well, we finally find out a bit about Rockman. A little bit of a let-down to be honest… but JMS seems to be going more realistic with these characters, so I can’t say it was totally unexpected. He does still seem to be focusing more on the character development than the actual plot, which is usual for him. Also, like usual, it is to the detriment of the story. I am not sure we will come out of this series with a complete classic, but it could serve as a launchpad to bring these characters into the Marvel fold, for other writers to take them up without being hampered by their old-fashioned nature.
A decent issue - at least average, on the whole.
Status: SAFE
A Red Mass For Mars #1 (of 4), $3.50, Image Comics. Due Out 06/11/08 ON TIME
In this issue, mankind was devastated by a global pandemic, a nuclear terrorist strike, technology running amok, turning against mankind, an ethnocentric superhuman bent on establishing English as a global language, and an alien invasion of a strength impossible to repel. I think I got it all… talk about your post-apocalyptic superhero story! I don’t know if I like it yet - but I will say I am curious to see what happens next. Going to have to keep this one around at least another month…
Status: SAFE
Green Lantern Corps #25, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 06/11/08 ON TIME
Action packed - as expected - and leading to an even more explosive battle as the wounded Green Lanterns have to fight Mongul and his mutated Black Mercies in the next issue. While the Hal Jordan Green Lantern book has taken a step back and seems to be slowly introducing a few concepts that will add some depth to Darkest Night, this book has kept the action level high, and is simply chronicling the emergence of the other Power Colors. Not a bad way to handle things. Still - it keeps this title an exciting read, which is certainly what it is on the list for. Next issue’s arc climax should be a good one.
Status: SAFE
Wonder Woman #21, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 06/11/08 ON TIME
Last issue seemed to be a bit of a hiccup - and while Wonder Woman still isn’t totally back on stride, it has definitely taken a big step back in the right direction. I just get the sense that Simone rushed into this story a bit too quickly- there is a lot going on around this story, and the modern-era stuff mixed with the Beowolf realm do clash a bit. But that is just the critic in me. The characterizations is where Simone has always excelled, and even last issue, which I thought was a bit underwhelming, she is really molding the clay of Diana’s character, something many people thought long dried. It is easy to forgive a little confusion when you realize that in this story, Simone is taking everything “safe” away from Wonder Woman - her goddess and family, her diplomacy, her truth (the lasso not working), and if her “mutation” continues, her beauty. There is no better way to make a character grow than to take them completely out of their element, and a monstrous, killer Wonder Woman without the light of truth behind her is definitely that.
So the story is average, but the build I have come to love from Simone is there. I have a feeling the epic story is yet to come - once Diana is in the place as a character that Simone wants her to be. Looking forward to the journey.
Status: SAFE
Fear Agent #21, $2.99, Dark Horse. Due Out 04/30/08 RELEASED 06/11/08
Fear Agent #22, $2.99, Dark Horse. Due Out 06/25/08 ON TIME
Impossible! OK, so #21 was another week late, but it came out - and #22 on time? An issue of Fear Agent actually on time? This is starting to get a little scary - never has a month gone this well since the beginning of the Pull List. Now I am truly scared… what is to come is going to have to be really, really bad to balance what a good month this has been so far…
Both issues were solid reads. #21 was the end of the Hatchet Job arc, and #22 the beginning of I Against I. If there is one thing I have come to realize about Fear Agent, its that Heath never, ever, ever catches a break. Well, beyond managing to somehow stay alive through all the crap that is tossed his way. Remender is almost cruel - he takes the hope of something good finally catching up with Heath and uses it to bludgeon him even more. Be it Mara, or Charlotte, or Eden, or simply somehow finding peace… it just never comes. That is part of what makes the title so enjoyable, but it is almost a relief to read some of these Tales of the Fear Agent back-up stories, because then at the very least Heath isn’t clinging on to his life by a thread. It is stressful to read sometimes!
Congratulations are in order for finally catching up- let’s hope that the rest of I Against I is equally prompt!
Status: SAFE
Avengers: The Initiative #14, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 06/25/08 ON TIME
What have I been saying since before Secret Invasion even started? 3D Man! Seriously, and Tony Stark is supposed to be some kind of prep god, and this didn’t even occur to him? Though, I very much like the situation they put him in… this has been the best installment of Secret Invasion I have read thus far, continuing Marvel’s tradition of saving the real quality for the event tie-ins, rather than the event itself. Shame Prodigy was only a one-time deal, but the issue was nonetheless good.
Status: SAFE
Ultimate Spider-Man #123, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 06/25/08 ON TIME
I kind of dug the twist on Forrest Gump there - it didn’t take too long to figure out that Venom was eating the people sitting on the bench next to him, but hey - the gag was a good one. Not much Spider-Man in this issue until close to the very end - but it merited giving most of the issue to Venom to re-establish him and give a little back story to those who missed earlier symbiote stories. I have a feeling this is going to be a very solid addition to the Pull List.
Status: SAFE
Teen Titans #60, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 06/25/08 ON TIME
A nice conclusion, though it is kind of a shame that Ravager has left. I wasn’t totally a fan of the Kid Devil/Ravager dynamic - well, as long as his crush remained unrequited it was ok, but that kind of thing never persists for long. Still - a solid arc for McKeever, and hopefully Ravager will be back once the Terror Titans mini runs its course. McKeever is helming that one as well, so the temptation is there to add that book to the list too. Sadly, considering what an amazing month this was, I doubt we are going to have the space.
Status: SAFE
LATE AND UNRELEASED ISSUES
Rex Libris #12, $2.95, Slave Labor. Due Out 08/08
TITLES CARRYING OVER
Jonah Hex #33, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 07/02/08
The Twelve #7, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 08/06/08
Nova #15, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 07/09/08
Teen Titans #61, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 07/30/08
Green Lantern Corps #26, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 07/16/08
Wonder Woman #22, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 07/09/08
House of Mystery #3, $2.99, DC/Vertigo. Due Out 07/02/08
Invincible Iron Man #3, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 07/09/08
Fear Agent #23, $2.99, Dark Horse. Due Out 07/30/08
Manhunter #32, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 07/02/08
Avengers: The Initiative #15, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 07/23/08
Ultimate Spider-Man #124, $2.99, Marvel Comics. Due Out 07/30/08
A Red Mass For Mars #2 (of 4), $3.50, Image Comics. Due Out 07/09/08
NEW TITLES
Batgirl #1, $2.99, DC Comics. Due Out 07/16/08
This ongoing never should have ended in the first place - and restoring Batgirl to almost her pre One Year Later status quo is one of the best moves DC has made of late. Hopefully this series will, on its own merits, restore Batgirl to her former greatness.
JULY TOTAL: $39.38
Budget = $40.00 + $0.93 (Bank) = $40.93
$40.93 (Budget) - $39.38 (July issues) - $3.05 (tax) = [solor-red]$1.50 short for August[/color]
Well, as you can see, we are over our limit for the month, which means one title must go. And I can’t decide - so I need your help. You all see the poll at the top of this column - I ask you, which title should be cut? The Twelve, as you can see, is safe, since there isn’t an issue coming out this month. All the other titles are fail game.
The poll will close on midnight on Tuesday, and whichever title receives the most votes will get the axe. Choose wisely, please! And do feel free to let us know which title you selected, and why. The more votes I get, the easier the final cut will be.
Here is this month’s Pull-List to print out and bring with you to the store: Here you go! Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view the file, as always. If you don’t have it, you can download the latest version for free at Adobe.com.
Post your comments in the Forum!
June 26, 2008
Off the Cuff: Tell me already Blizzard!
I can’t take it.
I just can’t take it anymore. I need to know what Blizzard is up to. Of course I only have to wait a few more days and it will all be over. But those few days seem like an eternity right now!
Blizzard has a tradition of building up suspense and speculation prior to a major announcement. Last year they did it with Star Craft 2.
But this year seems particularly rough. I have been looking forward to a new Diablo for a very long time. I thought I might get my fix with the much anticipated Hellgate: London. But since that game seems to be a flop, I am stuck playing Diablo 2 several times a week.
In the end if the game announced isn’t Diablo 3 I’ll be disappointed. But I also know that Blizzard only seems to make good games, so I trust that this trend will continue. As much as I want to see Diablo 3, I want to see it done the right way. Better for it to take another decade and be done well, then come out this weekend and be a disappointment.
Post your comments in the Forum!
June 25, 2008
On The Shelf This Week - 06.25.08
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Order any of the below titles by clicking here!
AVENGERS FAIRY TALES #3 (OF 4), $2.99, 32 Pages, Marvel Comics
Written by C. B. Cebulski, Art by Takeshi Miyazawa and Craig Yeung, Cover by Claire Wedling
It really bears mentioning again - Claire Wendling does some awesome covers. Not quite a pin-up, very germane to the story, and simply gorgeous. I’d love to see her handle a Marvel Illustrated adaptation of some fantasy-genred story. It could be quite beautiful.
This issue puts Cassie Lang in the role of Alice as she journeys into Wonderland. That really says all you need to know. This is a fun series, and this has the makings of another good issue.
GREEN LANTERN #32, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics
Written by Geoff Johns ; Art by Ivan Reis and Oclair Albert
When it was first announced that Green Lantern would be taking a step back to reexamine the origin of Hal Jordan, one couldn’t help but be skeptical. The Green Lantern titles have been the absolute best DC had to offer, thanks to an exciting, original story, and an origin retelling was far from original. Added to that, they never seem to turn out that well. Thus far, this one has bucked that trend.
Of course, back when Hal Jordan was first introduced as the Green Lantern, “origins” were short - extremely short - a character would suddenly find himself a full-blown superhero within a couple pages. These days the stories are a little more mature, and this retelling reflects that. Johns deserves some praise here - while fleshing out Hal’s origin, he has managed to remain true to several decades of Green Lantern history, and has planted some seeds about Blackest Night that are sure to factor into the upcoming event. This retelling no longer seems like a dodgy idea.
While slower-paced than what we have become used to from the Green Lantern books, it is still a great read, planting a lot of seeds about what is to come.
JSA CLASSIFIED #39, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics
Written by Mike W. Barr; Art by Shawn Martinbrough; Cover by Doug Mahnke
OK, for real this time - final issue.
It would be redundant to lament this title’s passing once again - I mean, it was a great book that pretty well launched Infinite Crisis, and helped to add some depth to the Justice Society for a new generation of readers, but it seems like the market just doesn’t exist for titles like this one any longer. Sad really - it wasn’t the best title month in and month out, but it was consistently good, and far better than the terrible “blockbuster” books that survive on hype and marketability alone. Not sure if it is at all possible to reverse this trend - no reason not to keep trying though. So for the final time, goodbye to JSA Classified. You will be missed.
RUNAWAYS #30, $2.99, 32 Pages, Marvel Comics
Written by Joss Whedon, Art by Michael Ryan, Rick Ketcham, and Christina Strain
Another end of an era for the Runaways - and just about the start of a new one. Runaways seems to have bucked the trend of new Marvel “teams” that are popular for a short time, then fade away into memory. The departure of series creators Vaughan could have been the beginning of the end for this concept, but Marvel did the one thing that was sure to guarantee the survival of Runaways - putting someone with the name recognition of Joss Whedon on this book guaranteed it wouldn’t leave anytime soon. Now with Whedon’s short run at an end (really, the biggest problem this title has faced is the delays in recent months), and someone with the skill of Terry Moore taking over, you can bet this title’s strong run will continue.
Hopefully Moore will put an end to the slow shipping schedule this title has had - removing really the only drawback this title has these days.
SECRET INVASION RUNAWAYS YOUNG AVENGERS #1 (OF 3), $2.99, 32 Pages, Marvel Comics
Written by Christopher Yost, Art by Takeshi Miyazawa, Craig Yeung, and Christina Strain
Often times, when major summer crossover events happen, almost every title becomes involved in some way, even if it seems that the main character’s involvement is only distantly related to whatever the ongoing story is. In this case, though, there is a much more direct reason for this mini - both teams just happen to have a Skrull on their rosters, so this mini makes a lot of sense.
The Civil War crossover between the two teams was decent, though it was a little bit of a let-down overall. The topical nature of this event should help overcome the weaknesses that the last crossover had. A definite must have if you are closely following Secret Invasion.
SUPERMAN #677, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics
Written by James Robinson; Art by Renato Guedes and José Wilson Magalháes; Cover by Alex Ross; Variant Cover by Renato Guedes
After a one issue fill-in story, the new ongoing writer James Robinson comes aboard for his first story arc. Robinson doesn’t have a lot of credits to his name, but what few he has are outstanding (Starman being the most notable). Robinson will also be writing the upcoming Justice League title, which looks to focus on the backlash of the Martian Manhunter’s murder. Robinson has been on hiatus for a couple months, but it looks like he is being thrust right back into the heart of the DCU.
He has some giant shoes to fill - but based on his resume, Superman shouldn’t suffer much of a quality dip under the new regime.
TEEN TITANS #60, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics
Written by Sean McKeever; Art by Eddy Barrows and Ruy Jose; Cover by Barrows and Julio Ferreira
This issue is the final part of the Terror Titans arc. In many ways, it seems almost logical to say that this is the final part of McKeever’s first arc on the title, since it was only with this story that he really came into his own. A couple editorially-mandated stories did drag down McKeever’s initial start, but this arc has been running on all cylinders - from the team interactions, their individual personalities and struggles, the hint of humor and the antagonist himself - for too long, Teen Titans felt like the “mini Justice League” - McKeever has really restored a Titans tone to this title.
It is the last issue of an arc, one with will likely feature a lot of action, so it isn’t a bad choice for someone looking to jump aboard this book. Teen Titans has quite suddenly come into its own, and is looking like it is going to have a nice long, strong run.
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #123, $2.99, 32 Pages, Marvel Comics
Written by Brian Michael Bendis, Art by Stuart Immonen, Wade Von Growbadger, and Justin Ponsor
A new Ultimate Spider-Man arc is always worth mentioning. Of note is the fact that this arc incorporates elements from the Ultimate Spider-Man video game (which makes some sense, as Bendis co-wrote the script for that game and it has been mostly considered cannon since it was released) - which might help resolve some of the continuity problems the game itself had. Knowing the story from the game, it is safe to assume that this will be an action-packed arc, and a safe one to try out for the first time. If you aren’t reading this book yet (I can’t understand why you wouldn’t be), you should give it a shot - especially if the 3 times a month shipping schedule is putting you off Amazing Spider-man. This really is the best Spider-Man book on the market today, and a good buy if you want a consistent monthly dose of the Wall Crawler.
SPOTLIGHT PICK OF THE WEEK
MADAME XANADU #1, $2.99, 32 Pages, DC Comics/Vertigo
Written by Matt Wagner; Art and cover by Amy Reeder Hadley; Variant cover by Wagner
Last month, Vertigo gave us the start of House of Mystery - this month it is giving us another title with a lot of promise, Madame Xanadu. Vertigo has always been a good place for DC Magicians to spread their wings a little bit, without the confines of continuity. It worked well for John Constantine- perhaps Madame Xanadu will experience similar success.
Of course, helming this new title is Matt Wagner - of Grendel fame, most recently working on Trinity. He has the chops for an arcane tale like this one - it is a far-cry from the tone we are seeing on Trinity, but it is closer to his usual genre. Well worth a look - this could be another long-running Vertigo hit. Also an excellent buy for fans of the late Shadowpact series - while she wasn’t a member of the team, she did cross paths with that team in Day of Vengeance and Countdown.
DARK HORSE
STAR WARS DARK TIMES #12 VECTOR PART 6 $2.99 Now: $2.59
DC COMICS
FINAL CRISIS #2 (OF 7) $3.99 Now: $3.49
GREEN LANTERN #32 $2.99 Now: $2.79
JSA CLASSIFIED #39 $2.99 Now: $2.79
MADAME XANADU #1 $2.99 Now: $2.69
PROGRAMME #12 (OF 12) $2.99 Now: $2.59
SECRET HISTORY THE AUTHORITY HAWKSMOOR #4 (OF 6) $2.99 Now: $2.59
SUPERMAN #677 $2.99 Now: $2.69
TEEN TITANS #60 $2.99 Now: $2.59
TRINITY #4 $2.99 Now: $2.79
DEVIL’S DUE
WORLDS OF DUNGEONS & DRAGONS #2 $5.50 Now: $4.99
IMAGE COMICS
PILOT SEASON ALIBI #1 $3.99 Now: $3.49
MARVEL COMICS
ANGEL REVELATIONS #2 (OF 5) $3.99 Now: $3.49
AVENGERS FAIRY TALES #3 (OF 4) $2.99 Now: $2.59
BLACK PANTHER #37 $2.99 Now: $2.69
DAREDEVIL #108 $2.99 Now: $2.69
HOUSE OF M TP AVENGERS $13.99 Now: $10.99
HULK #4 $2.99 Now: $2.69
MARVEL ATLAS TP $14.99 Now: $11.99
NEW WARRIORS #13 $2.99 Now: $2.59
RUNAWAYS #30 $2.99 Now: $2.69
SECRET INVASION RUNAWAYS YOUNG AVENGERS #1 (OF 3) $2.99 Now: $2.69
SHE-HULK #30 $2.99 Now: $2.59
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #123 $2.99 Now: $2.69
ULTIMATES 3 #4 (OF 5) $2.99 Now: $2.69
UNCANNY X-MEN #499 $2.99 Now: $2.69
WOLVERINE FIRST CLASS #4 $2.99 Now: $2.69
WOLVERINE ORIGINS #26 $2.99 Now: $2.59
X-MEN FIRST CLASS VOL 2 #13 $2.99 Now: $2.69
X-MEN LEGACY #213 $2.99 Now: $2.69
YOUNG AVENGERS PRESENTS #6 (OF 6) $2.99 Now: $2.79
NOTE: Opinions here may not reflect those of X-World Comics LLC or its staff and are solely the opinions of the writer.
Post your comments in the Forum!
StillontheShelf.com - no frills, just content. Powered by WordPress
©2003-2008 Craig Reade and Mad Cow Disease