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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 8, 2016 20:31:17 GMT -5
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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 9, 2016 9:44:26 GMT -5
Batgirl and the Birds of Prey #4 Written by Julie and Shawna Benson Art by Roge Antonio Colored by Allen Passalaqua Summary: The search for the devious Oracle takes a back seat to the origin of the Huntress.
Plot: While I've been enjoying the Benson's story the last few issues as well as the interplay between the girls I was left cold by this issue. In the last issue Huntress decided to part ways with Batgirl and Black Canary, and it felt rich and organic and I was really looking forward to how the Benson's would rebuild that bridge...but instead of a deeply complex emotional journey it happened in single page and after that it was as if it never happened. It was just a very flat affair and so was the telling of Helana's origin as well it didn't feel connected to what was going on and it lacked a sense of emotional resonance that hooked you in. Normally I'd drop a book after a bad issue like this but I'm going to stick it out long enough to atleast see the reveal of oracle next issue.
Art: Antonio's art continues to be fun and energetic but it isn't really a big enough draw past the reveal.
Conclusion: An enjoyable enough serious takes a serious fall and unless something changes quick in the next issue I'm unsure if I'll continue on.
Grade: 5/10 |
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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 9, 2016 10:58:38 GMT -5
Wonder Woman #10 Written by Gregg Rucka Art by Nicola Scott Colored by Romulo Fajardo Summary: Wonder Woman get's her first real taste of the modern world as Steve, Etta and Minerva take Diana to the mall for margaritas and Mexican food when terrorists strike.
Plot: Rucka's Year One story just keeps on making me smile. The pacing might be slow,for comparison Batman: Year one told his complete origin in just four issues while at the same page count we're really just starting the story here but the character work being done with Diana is fun. The way she reacts to the new stimuli at the mall was fantastic and her surprise at discovering her powers was palpable. I wish we knew more about the SEAR group but what we do have is well worth the price of admission.
Art: I seriously don't think the art by Nicola Scott has ever been any better, the expressions on the characters faces are perfect and the fluid movement in the action is great.
Conclusion: Although the pacing is slow the character work is fantastic and hopefully the revelation of what the SEAR pays off.
Grade:8/10
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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 9, 2016 14:17:28 GMT -5
Star Trek: Boldly Go #2  Written by Mike Johnson Art by Tony Shasteen Summary: Resistance is Futile! Seemingly sensing the disturbance the Narada caused by entering the past the Borg have come to investigate the Alpha Quadrant bringing them into conflict with Kirk and company.
Plot: While in the last issue Johnson gave us great characterizations of Kirk, Bones and the new crew this issue largely focused on Sulu and his recollections of the Borg attack. Just as in the past Johnson shows great skill in bringing the characters from the films to the screen as reading it you can almost swear you hear Jon Cho's voice in your head. I'm still not entirely sold on the Borg showing up, especially looking to be just as advanced as they did in the Next Generation but this issue at least gives them a rational reason to be in the area: that they picked up the damages done by the Narada and wish to understand it. It's a smart move in that it neatly ties in the plot of the films while giving an interesting story hook.
Art: While the characters continue to be excellent portrayals of the actors from the films the back grounds remain almost entirely non-existent and the coloring completely flat.
Conclusion: If the art were even just a little bit better this book would be enthralling, the narrative feels like the films and if the art could meet that you'd have a fantastically immersive reading experience.
Grade:6/10 |
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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 9, 2016 17:00:06 GMT -5
Mother Panic #1  Written by Jody Houser Art by Tommy Lee Edwards Summary: Socialite Violet Paige has returned to Gotham and she's she's out to prove that there's more than one way to go about being a vigilante.
Plot: In this introductory issue Jody Houser gives us a look at the new vigilante in town: Violet Paige. She's strong, independent and mysterious and the Gotham she inhabits is instantly intriguing; which is fitting because when done right Gotham is a place that is a character in its own right and Houser really gets that as she makes the world around the characters every bit as important as the characters them selves. There isn't a whole lot to go on here plot wise and we only get the lead character in broad strokes but the feel of the book is perfect in creating a noir feel without turning the lead into a femme-fatale. In a lot of ways it reminds me of Greg Rucka's Batwoman from Detective Comics, there's a richness here that just draws you in and I'm excited to see where Jody goes.
Art: Edwards art is a perfect fit for Houser's narative; it's smoky black shadows and scratchy line work highlight the noir feel that Houser beautifully weaves. His expressions are subtle, and his nuanced body language is even better at conveying meaning than his faces which is wonderful to see. But my favorite part is the overall design of Mother Panic, the all white color pallet in contrast to all the blacks is beautiful and the over sized padded gloves with studded knuckles and the angular helmet say dangerous while still being feminine. In a world where most super heroes look the same a new visual language is really refreshing.
Conclusion: While light on details this book as jam packed with atmosphere and mood making it a fantastic read. It's more straight forward than the other Young Animal books and has the closest ties to the main stream DCU(Batman and Alfred both appear) so if you were put off my the more experimental feel of the other Young Animal books than this is for you.
Grade:9/10 |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 9:29:43 GMT -5
Betty and Veronica #2: After several months since the release of #1, we finally pick up with the best friends at odds. Veronica's dad is aiming to tear down Pop Tate's Soda Shoppe to make way for a hipster infested chain coffee shop. Betty rallies and wants to save Pop Tate's. Most of Riverdale backs Betty while in Veronica's corner, we have Reggie and Kevin. Veronica one ups Betty throughout the issue and we see Betty's grades begin to slip as she is devoting so much time to her cause--as well as seeing the friendship between the 2 girls unravel.
The art was solid. Lots of good expressions and body language. Veronica looks sleek and stylish. Betty is messy looking, but cute. I didn't care for the colors. Very washed out and muted. Maybe the darker colors are to complement the story's somber mood.
The scenes with Hot Dog narrating weren't distracting. I do take issue with Veronica's characterization in the new series. Veronica has always been competitive and spiteful, but here she is depicted as downright cruel. Her motivation is that she always wins even if it means Pop Tate's livelihood.
Midge and Moose appear and I caught glimpses of Big Ethel and Dilton as well.
7.5/10
Wonder Woman #10: Wonder Woman continues to be a great read since Rebirth. Steve, Barbara, and Etta take WW out into the world. Wonder Woman's expressions at lingerie, womens' shoes, and margaritas are great to see. This issue has lots of character moments and tons of action towards the end with an unfortunate realty (terrorist attack) that we deal with appearing in WW's world. She springs to action along with Steve and Etta. These two are no longer relegated to the sidelines, but help as best they can. What I enjoyed so much was seeing Wonder Woman being Wonder Woman. Running, jumping, bullets and bracelets, the lasso.....it was awesome!
The art is absolutely stunning. Nicola Scott really poured her heart out into this one. Very detailed artwork with several splash pages throughout (that don't skimp on the story). The shopping center/mall opening scene reminded me of the Venetian in Las Vegas and the people in the 2 page scene--Nicola didn't skimp on details at all. There is another double page splash of Wonder Woman using her bracelets to deflect bullets. Another page consists of several quick panels that show just how fast WW is. It is amazing. The colors are muted, could have been brighter--a minor complaint.
If you have ever been a fan of Wonder Woman, pick up this issue. To me, this is how Wonder Woman should be. I love seeing Steve and Etta being capable and I loved the scene of Steve with the hearts around his head (there is a scene with the magic lasso that I am referencing here). Give me brighter colors and Diana Prince and I will be a happy WW fan!
9.5/10
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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 10, 2016 14:27:10 GMT -5
Betty and Veronica #2: After several months since the release of #1, we finally pick up with the best friends at odds. Veronica's dad is aiming to tear down Pop Tate's Soda Shoppe to make way for a hipster infested chain coffee shop. Betty rallies and wants to save Pop Tate's. Most of Riverdale backs Betty while in Veronica's corner, we have Reggie and Kevin. Veronica one ups Betty throughout the issue and we see Betty's grades begin to slip as she is devoting so much time to her cause--as well as seeing the friendship between the 2 girls unravel. The art was solid. Lots of good expressions and body language. Veronica looks sleek and stylish. Betty is messy looking, but cute. I didn't care for the colors. Very washed out and muted. Maybe the darker colors are to complement the story's somber mood. The scenes with Hot Dog narrating weren't distracting. I do take issue with Veronica's characterization in the new series. Veronica has always been competitive and spiteful, but here she is depicted as downright cruel. Her motivation is that she always wins even if it means Pop Tate's livelihood. Midge and Moose appear and I caught glimpses of Big Ethel and Dilton as well. 7.5/10 Wonder Woman #10: Wonder Woman continues to be a great read since Rebirth. Steve, Barbara, and Etta take WW out into the world. Wonder Woman's expressions at lingerie, womens' shoes, and margaritas are great to see. This issue has lots of character moments and tons of action towards the end with an unfortunate realty (terrorist attack) that we deal with appearing in WW's world. She springs to action along with Steve and Etta. These two are no longer relegated to the sidelines, but help as best they can. What I enjoyed so much was seeing Wonder Woman being Wonder Woman. Running, jumping, bullets and bracelets, the lasso.....it was awesome! The art is absolutely stunning. Nicola Scott really poured her heart out into this one. Very detailed artwork with several splash pages throughout (that don't skimp on the story). The shopping center/mall opening scene reminded me of the Venetian in Las Vegas and the people in the 2 page scene--Nicola didn't skimp on details at all. There is another double page splash of Wonder Woman using her bracelets to deflect bullets. Another page consists of several quick panels that show just how fast WW is. It is amazing. The colors are muted, could have been brighter--a minor complaint. If you have ever been a fan of Wonder Woman, pick up this issue. To me, this is how Wonder Woman should be. I love seeing Steve and Etta being capable and I loved the scene of Steve with the hearts around his head (there is a scene with the magic lasso that I am referencing here). Give me brighter colors and Diana Prince and I will be a happy WW fan! 9.5/10 The sense of wonder they brought to Wonder Woman is great, I hope the film manages to capture that feel. |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 14:49:39 GMT -5
 Script by Gerry Conway. Art and Cover by Ryan Stegman. This title takes place in the alternate reality that last years mini series was set in. The story basically picks up where the 2015 series ended. Regent is gone. This world is settling into a new normal. Peter has found a way for MJ to have powers so the family can protect them selves. The good: LOVED the family scenes at home. LOVED the scenes at the Bugle. The art was cartoony but fit the style of the story. The villain at the end. The bad: the redesign of the Scorpion. Somehow things feel "off" in this different reality. 2 backups that felt unnecessary & only served to jack up the price. My take on this series: I HATED OMD & BND. I felt that they regressed Peter backwards. Stopped reading Spider-Man for years until last years RYV mini series. Also was a BIG fan of the MC2 Spider-Girl series. I feel this series will be good & an alternative to the current ASM title. I just have to get beyond the feeling that everything feels "off" & learn to accept this version of a married Peter with a family. Score: 7/10. |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 14:56:36 GMT -5
Best of the week: Written by Greg Rucka. Art and Cover by Nicola Scott. The Year One story continues & it is freaking perfect! Rucka really gets these characters. He writes them so well. But Nicola Scott's art is the highlight. Man it is so beautiful. Especially the 2 page spread of the classic bullets & bracelets scene. Just. Perfect. Awesome. Beautiful. 10/10.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 15:02:06 GMT -5
 Written by Phil Jimenez. Art and Cover by Emanuela Lupacchino and Ray McCarthy. I don't how this series started with so much potential & has become such a confusing mess. The story jumps around & Jimenez adds yet another mystery. There is way too much going on. It has turned this story into an incoherent mess. And normally Lupacchino's art is usually great but this issue's art felt rushed. I am going to finish this arc & hope Jimenez nails the ending. Score: 4/10. |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 15:08:16 GMT -5
 Script by Nick Spencer. Art by Javier Saiz. Cover by Stephanie Hans. This issue was a set up issue. We get glimpses of Steve's plans to take Hydra away from the Red Skull. We also see the Red Skull's plans. The chess pieces are being put into place. Spencer is setting up an epic battle. One that hopefully restores Steve to his normal persona. Saiz' art is stunning. Can't wait for the next issue! Score: 7/10. |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 15:14:48 GMT -5
 The Speed of Darkness: Part 1. Written by Joshua Williamson. Art by Felipe Watanabe and Oclair Albert. Cover by Carmine Di Giandomenico. The Shade returns. The story continues with Wally 2 as Kid Flash & the conflicts this creates between him, Iris, Barry. I am glad to see an old villain being used. The story sets up a new status quo. The art is much much better than last issue's travesty. Williamson feels like he has settled in & hopefully this arc will be better than Godspeed. Score: 6/10. |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 15:22:44 GMT -5
 Written by Charles Soule. Art and Cover by Ron Garney. This issue is Blindspot vs Muse. When this volume of DD started one of the things I disliked was Blindspot. Slowly Soule has made the character more intriguing. With this issue he finally sold me on Blindspot. I want to read more about him. He is a welcome addition to the DD mythos. And Muse? He is a sick, twisted new villain. Marvel was at the bottom on my pull list the last few years but they are slowly pulling me back in to some of their titles. Score: 7/10. |
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Post by Deleted on Nov 10, 2016 15:33:41 GMT -5
 Story, Art and Cover by Adam Hughes. Issue #1 came out in July! Betty tries to raise money to save Pop's Shop. Veronica has her own fundraisers (which are over the top & more successful) in order to change Pop's into a Starbucks type of coffee shop. The good: the art is beautiful. The characters are likable (except Veronica). Riverdale is the ideal small town in America. The bad: Hughes has made Veronica totally unlikable in this story. It's too much. This would have been OK for Reggie but not Ronnie. Also the colors look too faded. So I really like Hughes portrayal of all the characters & Riverdale. Hopefully he will find a way to redeem Veronica next issue. I also hope they get rid of the faded coloring effect. Score: 6/10. |
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Post by thwhtguardian on Nov 10, 2016 17:15:49 GMT -5
Mr. Quinlan: Vampire Hunter #3 Written by David Lapham Penciled by Edgar Salazar Inked by Keith Champagne Colored by Dan Jackson Summary: Now Serving the Old Masters, Quinlan now leads a legion of Rome into battle in northern Africa but his men are under siege by creatures of the night.
Plot: While I was hoping to see more of Quinlan's interactions with the Old Masters as teased in the last issue (they appear only briefly here before sending him to Africa) the friendship that Lapham builds between Quinlan and Decimus was fantastic. While the action is great it's the quiet moments between Decimus and his vampire commanding officer Quinlan that make it worth reading. Both know of the Old Masters but their motivations for serving them and the frank way they discuss them was fantastic.
Art: Salazar's art is never really thrilling but it tells the story well enough.
Conclusion: While the art lacks a sense of mood that would match the story's tone the characterization is strong.
Grade: 7/10 |
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