Tag Archives: David Grouix reviews

February 2014 Marvel Comics Diamond Previews Review

By | | ,
Leave a comment

February 2014 Marvel Comics Diamond Previews Review

 

          Marvel’s current wave of All-New titles have me even more excited than the first wave did. I cannot heap enough praise on certain key titles and I want to highlight those first.

 

Ms Marvel #3          Ms. Marvel by G. Willow Wilson (W) and Adrian Alphona (A) grabbed me with the first issue. The large supporting cast was surprisingly fleshed out for a first issue intro, and Kamala has a big family so that is no small feat. The artwork is beautiful, and an example of the way Marvel is trusting the creators with their characters and allowing them to create superhero books that have a good chance of appealing to those that have stayed away from superheroes. Ms. Marvel needs to be left in its own corner of the Marvel Universe while it finds its audience and voice, which it seemed to already do with the sold out Ms. Marvel #1. The third issue is out in April it should be going home with you, yes you, the one reading this, get this book. If the first issue is sold out be on the lookout for a second printing scheduled to hit some time in March. I have a firm belief that this book will do well in collected form as well. With the female hero sadly under represented by the big two this book deserves the attention needed to make it a hit. I hope a year from now I am still talking about this title.

 

Black Widow #5          Speaking of female heroes, another title I cannot get enough of, especially after the unexpected twist involving Natasha’s handler, is Black Widow. Nathan Edmondson is a great writer when it comes to pacing and Phil Noto truly has made this book his own within the first couple of issues. His style adds to the big screen espionage feel of this book. It also clearly illustrates how Natasha should be handled on the big screen, tight action scenes, worldwide espionage, and a body count that would make the Punisher cringe. Natasha has never come across more bad ass, or deadly as she has in the hands of this creative team. I rarely mention colouring in this article but that is another fist bump I have to give Noto, he nails the colouring with aplomb. The transitions between scenes is often handled by a change of the colour palette, indicative of the action of the scene or perhaps the mood of the main heroine of the series. If you like spy action where one woman can make the difference between our survival or extinction, this is the book for you.

 

All-New X-Factor #6          All-New X-Factor is everything I hoped it would be and more. It seems to blend the best aspects of both iterations of X-Factor that have previously struck a chord with readers. On one hand we have a superhero team that is corporately sponsored, which really isn’t that far off from a government sanctioned team, and on the other hand we have the character interactions that Peter David had in spades in his previous Madrox led title. Issue #6 of the series brings us Warlock, but Serval Industries wants him taken down and sends in X-Factor, including Cypher, who was at one time a teammate of Warlocks. This is another book that is worth picking up. With the sixth issue in April, the first trade should be out soon. If you don’t mind a second printing of the first issue, which should be coming soon, go out and find the back issues. You will not be disappointed.

 

Loki Agent of Asgard #3          The fourth title I have quickly fallen in love with is Loki: Agent of Asgard. Al Ewing (W) and Lee Garbett (A) continue to tell the story of the trickster of the Marvel Universe who is now under the guidance of the All-Mother. Issue 1 had an amazing last page reveal that I was not expecting, and I do not want to ruin it for anyone but boy the story possibilities are endless! The third issue is out in April, so it is not too late to catch up. Note though that the first issue is sold out at the distributor level so keep an eye out for a second printing as it is going back to press.

 

Original Sin #0          The Marvel summer event kicks off in April with Original Sin #0. This issue looks at who the Watcher is and what is coming for the Marvel Universe, and ultimately what his life means, all through the eyes of one of the newest heroes, Nova. This will lead into the death of the Watcher which will be rocking the foundation of the Marvel Universe this summer. This tale is brought to you by Mark Waid (W) and artist extraordinaire, Jim Cheung.

 

Amazing Spider-Man #1          Amazing Spider-Man returns, as we all knew he would, in Amazing Spider-Man #1 by Dan Slott (W), and Humberto Ramos (A). I am not personally a fan of Peter Parker but understand his importance in the Marvel Universe. I am hoping that somehow we get more Doc Ock because his time as the web-slinger has been one of the most entertaining and risky moves that Marvel has made. Perhaps Marvel could treat us to an omnibus of the Superior Spider-Man’s reign?

 

Iron Fist Living Weapon #1          While I have not always warmed up to Kaare Andrews writing, I have loved his art and he handles all of the creative duties in Iron Fist: Living Weapon. The first issue is out in April and the story of his return to his roots as K’un-Lun beckons for help and Danny answers. This is worth checking out, and with Marvel’s recent success with their All-New initiative I have expectations that are high, and will undoubtedly be met.

 

Hulk #1          Sigh….Hulk is launching again with a new #1. Bruce Banner is shot, Hulk has to figure it out. No offence to Mark Waid (W) or Mark Bagley (A) who are coming onto this book but when is Hulk going to be allowed to just exist without being drawn into cross-overs and being relaunched again, and again. At least we aren’t getting a different colour Hulk with this relaunch.

 

X-Men Legacy #1          X-Men Legacy #1 by Chris Claremont (W) and Todd Nauck (A) hits in April and focuses on Nightcrawler. It is a smart move keeping this in the X-Men Legacy book since a Nightcrawler solo book would not attract too much attention, plus throw in Chris Claremont, and you have a questionable title at best. Before Claremont fans attack I will say that I have appreciated what he has done to help build the foundation of the X-Verse we have today but his modern day work from the past 10 years has done nothing but led to me dropping titles. I find his writing style is for such a niche audience that it will be tough to see this title survive. I expect a creator team switch within the first year.

 

All-New Doop #1          Peter Milligan gets to write a character that is so perfect for him, so perfect he co-created the character with Mike Allred, and a character that could, at least in my opinion, actually support a monthly. Doop. All-New Doop #1 is the first of a five issue mini-series that looks at the Avengers Vs. X-Men saga through the eyes of who may potentially be the most powerful X-Man ever.

 

Deadpool #27          Deadpool gets married in April. Deadpool #27 is a 100 page extravaganza with a hefty $9.99 price tag. I would list the writers and artists but it is easier to say that pretty well anyone who has written the Merc with a Mouth breaking the 4th wall will bring their words to Wade’s mouth in this issue. I will admit to a curiosity about who the bride is. I will be peeking at this one on the shelf, and depending on the bride I may pick this up.

 

What If Age of Ultron #1 What If Age of Ultron #2 What If Age of Ultron #3 What If Age of Ultron #4 What If Age of Ultron #5          The What If series is back with 5 issues in April. This one looks at Age of Ultron and what would have happened if a key Avenger was removed from the time-line. We see the Age of Ultron without Wasp in issue 1, Iron Man in issue 2, Thor in issue 3, Captain America in issue 4, and even one without Hank Pym in issue 5. The last What If focusing on Avengers Vs. X-Men seemed like a snuff film, reminiscent of the wholesale slaughter of the Ultimate Universe in Ultimatum, and seemed like an old What If tale where everyone dies. This What If needs to regain some of the loss of interest that the previous volume created but the premise is strong enough that it may just get back in my good books.

 

All-New Ultimates #1 Ultimate FF #1Ultimate Spider-Man #200 Bagley          Speaking of the Ultimate Universe, what I expect is the latest attempt to breathe life into that sagging line is about to hit in April as we get the monumental 200th issue of Ultimate Spider-Man, plus All-New Ultimates #1 by Michel Fiffe (W) and Amilcar Pinna (A), and Ultimate FF #1 by Joshua Hale Fialkov (W) and Mario Guevera (A). Judging from who made it onto the rosters of this team does not bode well for many of the existing characters that are fending off Galactus in the current Cataclysm cross-over. Lets hope this iteration of the Ultimate Universe does well because there are only a certain number of times that they can relaunch the line.

 

Avengers AI #11 Avengers AI #12 Mighty Avengers #9          While a lot of Marvel has been wowing my I do have to point out a disappointing read, Avengers A.I.. Sam Humphries is a writer I have enjoyed in previous books but the 8th issue of the series, which was one of Marvel’s .Now books, meant as a good jumping on point for readers, did nothing more than confuse me as to it’s true purpose. Marvel should revisit it’s Avengers line because this book and Mighty have both left me scratching my head wondering what their purpose is in the grander scheme.

 

          Possibly the last collaboration with Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning appears in the pages of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Prelude #1 (of 2) which introduces us to Nebula before her big screen debut. Fans of DnA should pick this up because who knows when, or even if ever, these two will work together again.

 

That is my look at Marvel for April 2014.

February 2014 DC Comics Diamond Previews Review

By | | ,
Leave a comment

February 2014 DC Comics Diamond Previews Review

 

It is time once again to turn our attention to Previews Magazine, issue 305, listing items to appear in comic shops starting in April of this year. With so many changes happening in my life the one I am excited about is re-establishing a pull list. I have purchased titles here and there but with my hold pile at my comic book store having grown to huge proportions I waited until now to get back into some books monthly. April is a great example of jumping on points for the big two. First up let’s take a look at DC.

 

Batman Eternal #1         April is the month where several titles catch up to the new post-Forever Evil status quo. It is also a month of endings and some very notable starts. One of the most exciting starts is the first of two weekly series (three if you count the rumoured Earth 2 weekly). Batman Eternal is heralded by some of the strongest writers in the DC stable and specifically one writer who will always be tied to Batman, Scott Snyder. It is interesting to note that issue 3 of the weekly lists the return of Stephanie Brown but Bat-fans are probably already aware that she has made her first New 52 debut on the last page of Detective Comics #28 released on February 12th. James Tynion IV, John Layman, Ray Fawkes, and Tim Seeley are inboard as writers with Mr. Scott Snyder and Jason Fabok has the art covered.

 

Justice League #30 Evil         Forever Evil affected many characters and teams but most affected was the Justice League family of titles. Justice League #30 written by Geoff Johns with the art tag team of Ivan Reis and Joe Prado, gives us a drastically changed lineup with a couple of notable additions and three missing members. Joining the team are Captain Cold, and new leader Lex Luthor. Shazam is on the team, taking the place of the missing Superman. Flash, and Green Lantern are also missing from the lineup, which leads me to wonder what team they will eventually end up on? Maybe a book with Titans in the title? With such a changed lineup the drama in this book will definitely be notched up and I look forward to reading about a Luthor led team, while also seeing shades of Norman Osborne and his post Secret Invasion status over at Marvel. Let’s hope DC can do something a little fresh with the idea of a villain being considered the world’s greatest hero.

 

Justice League of America #14 EvilJustice League United #0 Evil         Justice League of America #14 brings an end to that series with many of the characters transitioning to Justice League United and north of the border where a new Justice League Canada sets up shop. Simon Baz, Katana, and Catwoman seem to be moving on from their Justice League status while Hawkman, Stargirl, Martian Manhunter, and Green Arrow are joined by Animal Man, a Red Lanternless Supergirl, and the newly Canadianized Adam Strange all call Justice League Canada home. While Matt Kindt is a very capable writer he has never spoken to me on a level that makes his books must buys for me but Jeff Lemire on Justice League United is a writer I can get behind. He has guided Animal Man within the New 52 since the character appeared in the first wave of 52 titles, right up to his cancellation in March so it is appropriate that he appears on a Jeff Lemire written team book. I honestly expected him to move over to Justice League Dark but assume that they are going to be given him more of a superhero edge following his 2 and a half years in the “Dark” corner of the DC Universe. Justice League United #0 is out on April 23, 2 weeks following the ending of Justice League of America.

 

Justice League Dark #30 Evil         Speaking of Justice League, the Dark team, previously led by Constantine now has him taking a passenger seat while Zatanna takes the wheel. The solicitations point to a traitor on the team. I am going to point my finger at either Nightmare Nurse or Deadman. J.M. DeMatteis is not my favourite writer but the draw of the characters is pulling me along, plus I want to see if I’m right about the traitor.

 

Nightwing #30 Evil         Before we go any further let’s look at some of the ending series. Nightwing #30 marks the end of that series written by James Tynion IV. With James moving over to Batman Eternal we have more than likely seen only the beginning of the changes in Nightwing’s life and will more than likely see the true fallout from Forever Evil in the Bat-weekly.

 

Suicide Squad #30 Evil         Another series ending as a result of Forever Evil is Suicide Squad, which bows out of the New 52 with issue #30. Amanda Waller has failed to protect the United States and must now pay for that failure. While I have not followed this book I do hope that homes are found for many of the characters, namely Amanda Waller, maybe a solo book? That is probably what the March solicited one shot is for, a testing of the waters for the character.

 

Superman Unchained #9         Superman Unchained #9 is the final issue of that series. Even though Scott Snyder has proven himself I never believed for a moment that Jim Lee would remain on the series for very long and expected this at some point. With so many Superman books this one seemed a little redundant and the story arc could have appeared in any of the other core Superman books, or they should have solicited this as a mini-series which is what most fans surely expected this book to be anyway.

 

Stormwatch #30         Stormwatch has been a troubled book since the start, never able to find it’s footing or voice but DC gave it numerous chances but it appears that those chances have run out. Issue #30 of the series closes that out with the return of the original team from their New 52 launch. Retailers and fans should take note as this book is solicited as a “Futures End” prelude. I don’t think this will be the last we’ll see of Stormwatch, and expect they will figure prominently in Futures End.

 

Teen Titans #30         Another book with a weak standing in the New 52 was Teen Titans. It too comes to a close in April with their 30th issue. Fans of the Teen Titans will get an extra issue in April as the third annual for the title also ships one week after the final issue of the monthly. The Green Team finale had an interesting last page teaser and I wonder if we will see that story thread followed up on when the title undoubtedly relaunches.

 

Secret Origins #1         With endings we also get several new series. We have already touched on Justice League United but that is not all that DC has in store for us. Secret Origins #1 brings us an origin series which will hopefully clean up some of the more confusing points of the condensed New 52 history, instead of adding more points of contention for continuity buffs. We get three origin tales; Superman, Supergirl, and Dick Grayson. The second issue in May is going to include Batman, which seems an odd choice since his origin is being told quite successfully by Scott Snyder in the main Batman book, but we’ll see who else joins the Dark Knight in the second issue to judge whether it is worth picking up. For now I will try out the first issue because of the writing of Tony Bedard, and Greg Pak drawing me in.

 

Aquaman #30 Aquaman and the Others #1         Before the New 52 I don’t think anyone expected Aquaman to be a character that could successfully maintain his own monthly for an extended period, but he has, and now he gets a second book as Arthur is joined by his former teammates, the Others. Aquaman and the Others #1 by Dan Jurgens (W), Lan Medina (A), and Ed Tadeo (A) is, quite smartly, a “Futures End” prelude, which should help boost the sales of a book that will already have high fan interest.

 

Larfleeze #10Sinestro #1         It has not been confirmed but I wouldn’t be surprised to see the last issue of Larfleeze solicited soon, and the premiere of Sinestro #1 by Cullen Bunn (W) and Dale Eaglesham (A) confirms that hunch for me. The Green Lantern family of books is a robust line but something has to give and Larfleeze being shut out of the most recent Lantern cross-over does not bode well for that book. Sinestro has been a character with so many ups and downs that it is far past time that he got his own book. This looks like a rebuilding of Sinestro, in the vein of DC’s Rebirth books. Sinestro has lost everything, and now he has to face all of his failures in the past in order to build a stronger Sinestro.

 

Smallville Season 11 Lantern #1         Speaking of Green Lantern, the mythos of the ring bearers hits the Smallville universe in Smallville Season 11: Lantern #1, the first of a four issue mini-series that sees Clark Kent don the ring for space sector 2813.

 

Sandman Overture #3         Vertigo has a couple of books of note. First is The Sandman: Overture #3. I will believe it when I see it. Just a tip to DC, when you solicit a book so far in advance, maybe, just maybe, make sure it can be released on time. DC is lucky that the Sandman character is so loved or else the delays that this book has been suffering could drastically hurt it.

 

Vertigo Quarterly #1 Cyan         DC must be taking a page from the Dark Horse book and are putting out a Vertigo Quarterly. It’s not monthly but as long as they can maintain the impressive creators who take part I will be there every 3 months. The first issue, Vertigo Quarterly: Cyan #1 features Jock, Fabio Moon, James Tynion IV, Amy Cho, Javier Fernandez, and so many others providing story and art. I am hoping this book gets strong support because the Vertigo Universe is a perfect place for an anthology. $7.99 for 80 pages is worth it as long as the creators deliver. Here’s hoping they do.

 

Well that is DC for April 2014. Some interesting stuff coming out and a perfect jumping on point for readers who stayed away during the Forever Evil cross-over. Good reading to everyone.

January 2014 Alternate Comics Diamond Previews Review

By | | ,
Leave a comment

January 2014 Alternate Comics Diamond Previews Review

Time to pay a visit to the other publishers now that we have reviewed whats to come from Marvel and DC shipping in March of 2014.

 

Star Wars #15 2013 ongoing Star Wars #6 Lucas Draft Star Wars Darth Vader & Cry of Shadows #4 Star Wars Dawn of the Jedi Force War #5 Star Wars Legacy II #13         

 

 

 

 

            Dark Horse Comics is first up and we received big news on January third that Marvel will be taking over publishing of Star Wars comics starting in 2015. Even though Star Wars accounts for less than ten percent of the indy publishers bottom line they will undoubtedly be beefing up several corners of there publishing schedule.

 

BTVS Season 10 #1 IsaacsBTVS Season 10 #1          One of those corners is the Buffy-verse. March brings us the Joss Whedon produced Season 10 comic book launch. Christos Gage (W) and Rebekah Isaacs (A) are responsible for the new season. Vampires are once again the focus of Buffy but it would seem that magic is going to play a part and maybe be a bit of a game changer.

 

The super hero corner of the Dark Horse publishing line, recently labeled with the Project Black Sky logo continues to move along, but sadly I cannot see any new Brain Boy. In recent interviews his name has been mentioned so with any luck he will be back and maybe in his own ongoing. Fred Van Lente captured the arrogance, power, and vulnerability of the title character. If you want to read a fun superhero book about a powerful man who takes down villains with his mind, while looking dapper in his suits should hit the back issue racks for the 4 issue (#0-3) series.

 

Blackout #1           Blackout is the next hero to join the lineup. After appearing in Dark Horse Presents, this new character gets to display his true power in a four issue mini by Frank Barbiere (W), Randy Stradley (W), Colin Lorimer (A) and Doug Wheatley (A). His ability reminds me a bit of Nightcrawler but instead of an ingrown ability it is a special suit that lets Scott Travers’ appear out of nowhere while really traveling through a shadowy dimension. The best part? He doesn’t know how the suit works. I will give this issue a try and see how it stands up to Brain Boy. It is nice to see Dark Horse adding to the superheroes with a completely new one.

 

GI Joe a Real American Hero #200          IDW has a couple of endings of note and a couple of landmark issues to boot. First up is the 200th issue of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. Larry Hama is appropriately the writer for the Joes during this landmark event and S. I. Gallant provides the art. Judging from the solicitation it would seem that this is a turning point, and will herald in new changes for the Joes.

 

Transformers Regeneration One #100 Transformers Regeneration One #100 sub          Another big release, and also the final issue is Transformers Regeneration One #100. Simon Furman is the writer and Andrew Wildman is on art, joined by Guido Guidi. Simon has been responsible for some of the best Transformers stories in the past and this story will surely join them.

 

Transformers More Than Meets the Eye #27Transformers Robots in Disguise #27 Dark Cybertron part 11Transformers Dark Cybertron Finale #1 part 12 Transformers Dark Cybertron Finale #1 part 12 sub          Also ending is the Dark Cybertron crossover happening in Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye #27, Transformers: Robots in Disguise #27, with the big finale in Transformers: Dark Cybertron Finale. I didn’t hop onto this storyline but look forward to the trade, hopefully one that collects the entire epic.

 

Stray Bullets Uber Allies Ed TPStray Bullets #41Stray Bullets Killers #1          One of the greatest crime comics makes its return with Image, in the form of three notable releases. Stray Bullets #41 is a book that has been a long time coming, and closes off the “HiJinks and Derring-Do” arc. We then get the first issue of Stray Bullets: Killers #1, a new set of stories starts here. Finally if you missed out on this series when it started but want to get caught up we have Stray Bullets: The Uber Alles Edition TP. This baby comes in at a whopping 1200 pages and contains issues 1-41. All of this is written and drawn by David Lapham and all are out on March 12. It should be noted that the collection is listed at only $59.99 and is totally worth it. I am making sure the collection and the first issue of the new series will be coming home with me.

 

Starlight #1 A Starlight #1 B          Starlight #1 by Mark Millar (W) and Goran Parlov (A) is apparently the first salvo in the creation of the Millarworld Universe. The artwork brings to mind a very Flash Gordon style world and characters. I am hot and cold with Millar but with early positive buzz my curiosity urges me to try it out, and I shall.

 

Real Heroes #1          Bryan Hitch’s new project that he both writes, and draws seems to be a very interesting deconstruction of what todays celebrities can actually do while playing up a group of actors in very Avengerish roles who may be our only hope for humanity’s safety. Bryan Hitch is another creator that I normally prefer in just an illustrator role but will give this a try. Something tells me that this may be a book to watch Real Heroes #1.

 

Alex & Ada #5         A book that hooked me with the first two issues is Alex + Ada. The fifth issue by Jonathan Luna (W/A) and Sarah Vaughn (W) is out in March. This book is very decompressed but it works for this title and it unfolds like a well scripted television drama. I am not sure where the story is going and the writers are very careful with what they reveal and how they reveal it. We meet the two title characters in the first two issues but their relationship is slowly being built up and the subtleties of what they are going to eventually mean to each other is so enticing I cannot help but want to come back for more. Beautiful art and the story of a lonely, shy man, who ends up developing feelings for an android is a story that has been told before but this is an entirely new way to tell it and I cannot wait to see where they take it.

 

Afterlife With Archie #5 Francavilla Afterlife With Archie #5 Pepoy          I am not going to go into too much detail, but Afterlife with Archie should be in your pull pile, it is one of the greatest books being published in the horror genre. The art is amazing, the writing is superb and anyone who hasn’t checked out this book from Roberto Aguirre Sacosa (W) and Francesco Francavilla (A) are crafting something special. It was one of the best launches of 2013 and as long as the quality holds, and I think it should, it will be one of the best books of 2014.

 

Rover Red Charlie #1 FetchRover Red Charlie #4 wrap  Rover Red Charlie #4          Over at Avatar Press the Rover Red Charlie #4 book is out. Garth Ennis is no stranger to extreme violence, and that shows in Rover Red Charlie. I am still not sure how I feel about the first issue but it definitely made me feel uncomfortable during several sequences, so Garth Ennis is doing his job, and the book fits in perfectly with Avatar’s line. I will continue with this series but watching bad things happen to our furry friends may stop me from continuing, time will tell.

 

Magnus Robot Fighter #1 Magnus Robot Fighter #1 sub          Dynamite Entertainment continues to build their superhero universe with the edition of Magnus: Robot Fighter #1 in March. I still think of Valiant when I see this character but with a writer as wonderful and talented as Fred Van Lente I am excited to sample this book. Lente knows superheroes and his recent Brain Boy series makes me anxious to see this classic hero, Magnus, in a world where he comes up against technology gone bad. Dynamite hasn’t been on my pull list for a long time and this might be there return to it.

 

That’s it for what caught my eye in the pages of the recent Previews. See you next month, which is sure to be a very interesting month for many publishers. Good reading everyone.

January 2014 Marvel Comics Diamond Previews Review

By | | ,
Leave a comment

January 2014 Marvel Comics Diamond Previews Review

 

Hawkeye #18         With DC out of the way we turn our focus onto Marvel for product shipping starting in March 2014. I still find it strange that I have switched my love from DC to Marvel. When DC launched the New 52 I loved so many of the books, the chances they were taking, the way the creators were sharing their visions of the iconic characters, but now more than two years in and the corporate control of the characters has become painfully clear and Marvel has clearly shown more trust in their creators and that has payed off with an amazing roster of creator driven books that blend the creators voice with wonderful, rich characters. Marvel is taking what has made Hawkeye a critical and fan favorite and applying it to other characters, including an amazing string of female centric titles. “Hawkeyization” is the word bandied about to describe what Marvel is doing, and it fits.

 

Daredevil #1 ANMN         Let’s dive into what they have coming up. The All-New Marvel Now initiative is still rolling out and while they seemed to be playing it safer with the first round, this new initiative is grabbing the independent bull by the horns and crafting truly creative books that combine some of the best creators in the industry and truly letting their voices shine through. One of the biggest critical and fan favorites that didn’t get an All-New banner the first go around joins the party. Daredevil #1 takes the Man Without Fear and moves him from the mean streets of Hell’s Kitchen and transplants the hyper sensed lawyer to San Francisco. The creative team that made the previous volume a hit are back. Mark Waid writes and Chris Samnee provides the art for what is sure to be another smash.

 

Moon Knight #1 ANMN         Not that long ago Moon Knight had a Bendis written series that came and went without much fanfare. They are giving the character another go. This time the writer is one of my favorites, and one sure to bring allot of focus onto the character, namely Warren Ellis. Declan Shalvey is nothing to sneeze at when it comes to an artistic vision. The combination of Ellis and Shalvey will bring a completely new take on the multi personality defender of New York, and one that you should check out.

 

Silver Surfer #1 ANMN         Silver Surfer has long been absent in the Marvel Universe, making sparse appearances here and there, but nothing devoted to him only, until now. Dan Slott, the man who made Doc Ock as Spidey work, writes the stories of the herald of Galactus, and Michael Allred, the creator who made us love the quirkiest X-Force lineup ever, draws the adventures of the bearer of the power cosmic. The preview in All-New Marvel Now Point One made me laugh and excited to try the first issue of Norrin Radds new series Silver Surfer #1.

 

All New Ghost Rider #1 ANMN         One of the most radically redesigned characters to appear in this series of launches is in the pages of All-New Ghost Rider #1. Felipe Smith (W) and Tradd Moore (A) have replaced the motorcycle with a sports car and the slight horror appeal with a manga sensibility. I don’t know allot about this series but the redesign is enough to pique my curiosity, and the East LA based hero will be in my reading pile for at least the first issue.

 

Captain Marvel #1 ANMN         Carol Danvers is a busy lady, working with the Avengers, joining up with the Guardians of the Galaxy, and soon she can add her own comic book to the list. Kelly Sue DeConnick is back as writer and with her is David Lopez on art. The book had a very vocal, but small, fan base the first time around, and with strong hints at her appearance in the Marvel movie-verse in the future this series may just stick. The only thing that kind of threw me off in the solicitation is the mention of a new romance. I’m not saying that romance isn’t needed in comics, it absolutely is, but it should never be at the forefront of a solicitation. Comic books are sadly still a boys club. There are female readers but the bulk of the readers, especially of superheroes, are male. Men will not buy a comic book to see the blossoming relationship of a hero but want to see a character who grows, kicks butt, and takes names. Hopefully that will be seen in Captain Marvel #1. The first issue will be joining my reading pile and if it embodies a feeling like the first issue of Black Widow it may just find itself on my pull list.

 

Iron Patriot #1 ANMN         Poor James Rhodes, he hasn’t got much love in his War Machine persona but Ales Kot (W) and Garry Brown (A) are going to give it another go, this time though in his Secret Avengers persona of Iron Patriot. After breaking off from the Secret Avengers he brings the war on the bad guys to the home front, while a new villain makes his presence known. This will be worth a look at on the shelf and if the writing is as strong as the art looks it may just make it home with me.

 

Magneto #1 ANMN         Magneto has long been a vital part of the Marvel Universe and Cullen Bunn (W) and Gabriel Hernandez Walta (A) break Magneto away from Cyclops and his group of X-Men and takes him on a more proactive journey and one that Wolverine’s kill squad (X-Force) once went on. A journey that sees him take down threats, new and old, to mutant kind. Magneto has shined as a leader of the darker side of mutantdom and he has lost allot of that recently. Don’t get me wrong he is still pretty bad ass but it will be a nice change to see him return to a darker Magneto. The first issue of this book will be worth checking out.

 

Secret Avengers #1 ANMN         Ales Kot is writing Iron Patriot and fittingly he is also the writer of the 3rd relaunch of the Secret Avengers. I was a huge fan of the first Secret Avengers but the recent volume did little to excite but with any luck this volume will rekindle the love I once had for this title. The lineup is similar to the last go around so I am not getting my hopes up. Either way I will try out this first issue out of loyalty, and hopefully the magic that has been created in the pages of Hawkeye and Black Widow is magic that Ales and Michael can bring to this once great title.

 

Avengers Undercover #1 ANMN         I did not like the wholesale slaughter that littered the pages of Avengers Arena, but Dennis Hopeless (W) and Kev Walker (A) may redeem themselves in my eyes with an intriguing concept that may not have been possible had it not been for Avengers Arena, and that is Avengers Undercover. Anachronism, Deathlocket, Bloodstone, and Hazmat are broken from their experience and them turning to the dark side is believable. They hope the Masters of Evil think so too. In a bid to take down some of the deadliest Avengers enemies they decide to play evil themselves. How long before their pretend evil begins to become reality and the urge to take down the Masters of Evil becomes an urge to fully join their ranks? I look forward to seeing how Dennis Hopeless explores what could be the darkest chapter of these characters lives in Avengers Undercover #1.

 

Fans of Doc Ock Spidey take note, Peter is returning. With the very close, inevitable relaunch of Amazing Spider-Man with Peter in the drivers seat, it gives limited time to enjoy the tale that Slott has been crafting. I will be sad to see Peter return but look forward to a hopeful future omnibus collecting Dan Slott’s amazing story.

 

Black Widow #4         A new series that I will be hyping as long as the quality is retained from the first issue is Black Widow. The fourth issue of this recent go at the Widow’s tale hooked me with Phil Noto’s beautiful art and Nathan Edmondson’s guiding words. Even with only the first issue out it is clear that this is the team that can make this book a hit, and I can’t imagine anyone else on the book, even this early in its run. Black Widow’s solo titles have always dealt with retribution for a dark past and this one continues that tradition but in a way that is fresh and new. If it wasn’t for Hawkeye’s recent success we wouldn’t have this addictive take on one of the deadliest women in all of comics.

 

All New X-Factor #4         Another title I cannot rave about enough is the Peter David written and Carmine Di Giandomenico drawn All-New X-Factor. A corporate sponsored team is nothing new but the way Peter David keeps the true nature of Serval Industries covered by a thin veil of mystery is going to keep me coming back for more. Like Black Widow this book will be on my pull list for the foreseeable future. The series double ships in March with issues #4 and #5 bringing Danger to the team.

 

Well that concludes our look at Marvel for the March shipping issues and already has me excited for what the April solicitations might bring.

January 2014 DC Comics Diamond Previews Review

By | | ,
Leave a comment

January 2014 DC Comics Diamond Previews Review

Well a combination of computer issues and high volume at work has led to a slight delay but it is now time take a look at issue 304 of Previews Magazine for items shipping as early as March of 2014. There are many changes taking place in comics and it points to even more readers and an increase in interest in the art form and I for one am so excited about what is coming up.

 

Forever Evil #7           One of the publishing lines that will be going through many changes and is in a state of flux is DC Comics. The Forever Evil storyline comes to an end in March with all titles that have not been directly involved catching up to the new status quo in April.

 

          Let’s start with a look at the Forever Evil storyline. The main event mini-series closJustice League of America #13 EvilJustice League #29 Eviles with the seventh issue. It is evil vs. evil. Lex Luthor and his Injustice League goes head to head with the Crime Syndicate and when the dust settles the DC Universe will be a very different place, which will apparently lead to allot of changes.

 

Forever Evil Rogues Rebellion #6Forever Evil Arkham War #6Forever Evil Argus #6          The event also draws to an end in Justice League #29 where Cyborg and the Metal Men making their move against the Syndicate. Martian Manhunter and Stargirl‘s fate hang in the balance while the fate of the Justice League is revealed in the pages of Justice League of America #13. Waller and her Suicide Squad do their best to stop The Thinker from delivering OMAC to the Syndicate, while dealing with the betrayal of one of their own.   The three associate spin off mini-series; Forever Evil: A.R.G.U.S., Forever Evil: Arkham War, and Forever Evil: Rogues Rebellion all close of with there sixth issues.

 

Trinity of Sin the Phantom Stranger #17 Evil Trinity of Sin Pandora #9 Evil Constantine #12 Evil Justice League Dark #29 Evil          The event within an event: Forever Evil: Blight also comes to a close with the final chapters appearing in Trinity of Sin: The Phantom Stranger #17, Constantine #12, Trinity of Sin: Pandora #9, and finally comes to a close in Justice League Dark #29. With internet rumors buzzing about the cancellation of Pandora in the next couple of months it makes me wonder what will be left of the darker corner of the New 52, and if there will even be one when the smoke clears.

 

Suicide Squad Amanda Waller #1           A side effect of Forever Evil is the weak, almost non existent state of the Amanda Waller run ARGUS and Suicide Squad and that is explored in the one shot; Suicide Squad: Amanda Waller #1 where Waller is tracked by an enemy who wants to see her dead and she is forced to rely on herself to survive. The Amanda Waller of the New 52 has not quite grown on me yet but this may be the moment she shines, and could possibly be the comic book equivalent of a back door pilot.

 

Aquaman #29           Aquaman #29 introduces us to the New 52 version of Atlas while this issue hints at a run in with Swamp Thing. I have liked some of the work done to finally give Aquaman the respect he deserves, and this may be the issue I dip my toe into the water again. Jeff Parker is off and on with me but the idea of seeing Swamp Thing up against the King of Atlantis is enticing to say the least.

 

Justice League 3000 #4           Justice League 3000 #4 is out in March and I am going to stick with it for a couple more issues. The creative team of Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis normally brings me enjoyment but after reading the first issue I am left scratching my head. Keith Giffen is a pro at writing likable, quirky characters but there was not a likable character in the entire first issue. The art was excellent, and I saw shades of our Batman in the 3000 Batman but there has to be some way to relate to the characters or this title is going to shed readers faster than any Justice League title that has come and gone.

 

Wonder Woman #29          Wonder Woman #29 continues the journey for Diana, the new God of War. Azzarello (W) and Chiang (A) have crafted one of the strongest titles in the New 52 and has broadened who this character is and her place in the DC Universe. If anyone can carry the mantle of God of War, it is Diana and I cannot wait to continue the journey with her.

 

Batman #29 Zero Year          The second arc in the Zero Year origin story, Dark City, comes to a close in Batman #29. Scott Snyder will always be considered one of the definitive Batman creators and Year Zero is a landmark story that highlights what makes the Dark Knight Detective so great. I have my fingers crossed that we will see an Absolute Edition of Zero Year, because if there is one, I will be the first one to order it.

 

Detective Comics #29 Gothtopia Talon #17 Batman the Dark Knight #29          The attempt to bolster sales of the lower rung Bat-titles, Gothtopia, ends in Detective Comics #29. Judging from the cover I am guessing that Scarecrow is behind this false, perfect world of Batman’s. The coming months will show whether struggling titles were saved by the cross-over. With Talon ending in March with the 17th issue and Batman: The Dark Knight drawing down the curtain with issue #29, it is clear that not even being part of the Bat family can save a book. No offense to the Batwing creative teams but I wonder how much longer that title has.

 

Batgirl #29          A book I haven’t really got into, has got my attention with the 29th issue of Batgirl. Gail Simone (W), Fernando Pasarin (A), and Jonathan Glapion (A) bring us a story about a new villain. This new villain Silver has ties to Andrew Bennett from the under-rated I, Vampire goes up against Barbara and the Talon known as Strix. My love of I, Vampire dictates I bring this home, and I hope an appearance by Bennett will follow shortly after.

 

Animal Man #29          A cancellation that caught me off guard was Animal Man #29. Jeff Lemire (A) and Travel Foreman (W) introduced us to Buddy and his New 52 world and are bringing it to an end. Buddy has been put through the wringer and with any luck the series ends on a good note because he needs it. Even if it doesn’t we can look forward to him joining Adam Strange, and others in Justice League Canada when it launches later in the year.

 

American Vampire Second Cycle #1          One of the critical and fan favorites of the Vertigo line arrives with American Vampire: Second Cycle #1. Scott Snyder writes with art provided by Rafael Albuquerque. I did not hop on board with the first run but since Batman has definitely woken my up to the talent of Snyder, I will be giving this book a try. Vampires and one of my favorite writers make this a must have.

 

See you soon with our look at Marvel and the other Publishers. These were some of the highlights for me so don’t be afraid to pick up a Previews and check it out for yourself, there is allot of good product out there.