New Comics - Week of November 11, 2009

Spider-Man and Deadpool! Together! Written by Joe Kelly! This is a match made in heaven. Not only has Joe Kelly been the best writer on the Spidey staff, but he also has a masterful feel for Deadpool and writes the funniest dialogue at Marvel. Spider-Man #611 is a must-buy for all comic lovers.

Another book to look out for is Cable #20. I know this series sucks, but stick with it just a little longer. This is the final chapter of the lame Brood story and hopefully Bishop will finally die off. Next issue will be the big one where Cable and Hope return to the present, so something important has just got to go down here.

Green Lantern Corps #42 also comes out this week. An Indigo Lantern finally showed up in the last issue, meaning the corps will probably do some ass-kicking for a change. Expect some emotional moments from the key members of the corps too.

Some good mini-series start tomorrow. Strange #1 begins Dr. Strange's journey after losing his title as the Sorcerer Supreme. Realm of Kings: Imperial Guard #1 follows Gladiator after the events of War of Kings left him as the leader of the Shi'Ar empire.

Read more!

Reviews - Week of November 04, 2009

***Book of the Week***

Captain America: Reborn #4
Writer: Ed Brubanker / Artist: Bryan Hitch
If you liked the last two issues, you will definitely enjoy this one. We're treated to more of the amazingly written flashback sequences and the progressing sinister plot of bringing back Captain America. Both parts are done better than ever in Reborn: #4. The most emotional moment of the series has to be Steve Rogers reliving his biggest failure. Brubanker does a phenomenal job not only writing Rogers' torment, but finally showing that he can't handle Bucky's "death" and his freezing again. The developing plot is just as great. No one writes the Red Skull better than Brubanker and although the twist at the end could have been seen coming from the very first issue, it's still pretty darn cool when it happens. Also, Dr. Doom is awesome in this book and I can't see any possible way for the heroes to defeat him and the Red Skull together. Bryan Hitch's art continues to improve. With every issue his style gets closer to that of Captain America's regular art team and his splash pages are stunning. The many developments in this issue are not only cool, but also set up brilliantly for the final chapter of this amazing series.
IGN - 8.8/10
Comics Bulletin - 4/5

---

Black Widow: Deadly Origin #1
Writer: Paul Cornell / Artist: John Paul Leon, Tom Raney
I'm a little ambivalent about this book. The flashback sequences do a great job of creating one cohesive account of Black Widow's past (which is incredibly hard to do), but some events come out of nowhere and just happen for the sake of having it in the book. Cornell does a great job of making Widow a cool and capable soldier, but some of her dialogue was a little corny. Widow's origin tale was great, but her present day situation is sooooo cliche. Even the art is divided. Whereas the flashbacks, done by Leon, are stylistic and eye-catching, the present-day sequences, done by Raney, are generic and odd. In one panel Black Widow actually looks like a twelve year old. I hope the next issue builds more on the cool things in this issue and less on the cliche.
IGN - 8/10
Comics Bulletin - 4/5

---

Amazing Spider-Man #610
Writer: Marc Guggenheim / Artist: Marco Checchetto
At no point was this story ever good. I wouldn't have minded if the series just skipped the finale of it as if the first two chapters never happened. This issue is definitely the worst. Raptor never becomes anything more than a tool to revisit the clone saga. The flashbacks are idiotic and at no point could anyone, even a dumbass like Raptor, could have possibly come to the conclusion that Ben Reilly was a murderer. Probably the most atrocious thing about this issue is a remake of said flashback. The only point of Kane being in this story is just to recreate that sequence of events? Are you kidding me? And if Kane has a degenerative cell condition, why is still around and stronger than ever after all these years? Checchetto's art continues to be disappointing. Half of the time I couldn't tell if I was reading a flashback and I couldn't distinguish between anyone unmasked. Nothing about this issue made sense except the not-so-subtle theme blatantly stated on the last page - and that was just lame.
IGN - 5.8/10
Comics Bulletin - 2.5/5

Read more!

New Comics - Week of November 04, 2009

Finally! Another chapter of Captain America: Reborn. If you can remember from way back in September, Cap has just devised a plan with Vision that may solve his time-problems, Bucky has escaped from Osborn's capture, and Dr. Doom and Red Skull go into cahoots together. Dang that sounds cool. Expect more of the same in Captain America: Reborn #4

Another interesting book this week has to be Black Widow: Deadly Origin #1. This mini-series is supposed to act as some source material for fans eagerly anticipating her big screen debut in Iron Man 2 next Spring. In it, her past will be retold to make sense of a present danger facing her. Natasha is a secondary character in practically every book nowadays and I am glad to see her get some star treatment for a change.

Not much else coming out this week. Things may be bad in "Who was Ben Reilly," but at least they come to an end in Amazing Spider-Man #610. One book to look out for is Psylocke #1. She's always been a fan favorite for X-Men fans and because of her recent resurrection, everyone's favorite telepathic Asian-assassin gets her own mini too. The book will act in much the same way as Deadly Origin will to Black Widow.

Read more!

Reviews - Week of October 28, 2009

***Book of the Week***

Green Lantern #47
Writer: Geoff Johns / Artist: Doug Mahnke
On a week when Blackest Night and its most prominent tie-in are both released, I have to admit that I enjoyed this book just a tad more than the its big brother. Whereas Blackest Night advances the story (albeit in a formulaic way), Green Lantern tells a side story of the seven Lantern Corps building an offensive strategy. That's important for two reasons. I love strategizing. Sometimes the creation of a plan is cooler than the implementation of it, and this issue doesn't disappoint. Given the huge amount of hatred amongst some of the Lanterns, of course getting them to work together would be a difficult task. Johns doesn't falter on that premise as he builds on the tension between Sinestro and Hal, Larfleeze's envy of the Blue Lanterns, and Atrocitus's unique situation with Black Lanterns. The other reason I enjoyed this book more than Blackest Night is because it actually has the Lantern Corps in it. Pretty much the only thing I like about the DC Universe is the story of the Lantern Corps and its emotional specturm; and both are featured wonderfully. One way in which this book doesn't match up with Blackest Night is the art. Don't get me wrong, Mahnke's art is impressive, although his Larfleeze is lame, but no one can top Ivan Reis. This book has the coolest developments of the week and that's what makes it the best.
IGN - 8.8/10
Comic Book Resources - 4/5
Comics Bulletin - 3/5

---

Blackest Night #4
Writer: Geoff Johns / Artist: Ivan Reis
My preference for Green Lantern is no knock on this book. Blackest Night #4 is brilliant. Although every issue of this series has followed the same basic premise (tough fight, a B-Lister takes center stage, horrific last page), Johns does an amazing job making each issue actually feel fresh. This week has an unlikely group of heroes attempt to hold down the fort while they wait for Hal Jordan to finish his mission in the pages of Green Lantern. Of course, with this being Blackest Night, they end up on the losing side of the fight because of a stunning event, but what's impressive is the character development. Before this issue, I never cared about, or maybe even heard of, Flash, Mera, or Atom, but I found myself rooting for them. Flash truly shines in this issue and even has a line I look forward to repeating to my friends for years to come. The best thing about this issue is the amazing work of Ivan Reis though. With so much going on in every panel, it's actually surprising how good they all look. No character is under detailed and no battle is blurrily glossed over. And there is one splash page that is so gorgeous, I almost wanted to rip it out of the book and tape it to my wall. This book is amazing in every way and I cannot wait until the plots from it and Green Lantern come together and really rock the DC Universe.
IGN - 9/10
Comic Book Resources - 2/5

---

Ms. Marvel #46
Writer: Brian Reed / Artist: Sana Takeda
You let me down, Brian Reed. I may not have been a fan of this story, "Death of Ms. Marvel," or her "Resurrection," but he has always had a great grasp on Moonstone. In an attempt to show a different side of her, he completely misses the boat with her characterization this issue though. Moonstone has never been a sympathetic character. She's cool because she's ruthless, nonchalant, and selfish. I don't want to see her abandon those "qualities." Ms. Marvel's victory over Moonstone was kind of cool though. Everyone knew she was going to win, but the way she did so was creative, even though it did eventually lead to Moonstone's travesty of a emotional overhaul. Takeda's art is a bad as ever. Everyone is still shiny and doll-like, action is uneventful, and Norman Osborn is darn near unrecognizable. This whole arc has been pretty bad, but next issue is sure to be great. If you remember the first chapter of "The Death of Ms. Marvel," Spider-Man agreed to help Ms. Marvel if she agreed to go out on a date with him. It's showtime next issue.
*No major comic book site reviewed Ms. Marvel this week

---

New Avengers #58
Writer: Brian Bendis / Artist: Stuart Immonen
Once again, almost nothing happens in these pages. This issue amounts to one big chase scene, a la Matrix Reloaded (and we all know how that turned out). Some cool moments did take place in the chase though. Ares fighting Captain America was definately one of the highlights. No one else shined though, and I was actually a little disappointed by how useless Bullseye turned out to be. The plot development with Luke Cage is utterly ridiculous, but at least it seems like a tie-in to Thunderbolts. I'm not a fan of Immonen's art. Some of his panels are cool looking, but far too many are silly. Hopefully things will start picking up with the Siege right around the corner, because this series has been floundering as of late.
IGN - 8.5/10

---

Secret Warriors #9
Writer: Jonathan Hickman / Artist: Alessandro Vitti
"God of War/God of Fear" has worn out its welcome. The story may have started out good, but without Nick Fury at the center of it, things went downhill fast. Actually, this issue is a lot like New Avengers this week in that the whole thing is just a chase scene with the Dark Avengers, except I don't really know the title team as well as I do the New Avengers. Even the art takes a dip in quality. I've enjoyed Vitti's art for the past few issues, but his resemblance to Caselli's isn't present this week. Some characters looked a little awkward and most of the art appeared a little murky. We have one of more issue of this story before things get back to Nick Fury's mission with Leviathan. I hope the last issue properly sets the stage for what is sure to be a cool story.
IGN - 8.3/10
Comics Bulletin - 4/5

Read more!

New Comics - Week of October 28, 2009

Blackest Night #4 comes out tomorrow. That's really enough said, but I'll continue anyway. The Lanterns have finally figured how to defeat a Black Lantern thanks the exciting debut of the Indigo Tribe. Also the cover shows the mastermind behind the new rings, Nekron. How did he come to power and what are his reasons for this abomination? Answers tomorrow.

Heating things up on the Marvel side, Ms. Marvel #46 brings the conclusion to "War of the Marvels." How will Ms. Marvel finally defeat Moonstone? What's in store for Catherine Donovan? And who the hell are those light creatures? I hope all these questions will be answered as Ms. Marvel gets ready for her big date with Spider-Man next month.

Some other huge titles are Green Lantern #47, New Avengers #58, and Secret Warriors #9. In Green Lantern, Hal Jordan's searches for the leaders of every corps and confronts Atrocitus. The Hood seems to be back in power and extremely angry at his old gang in New Avengers. Luke Cage's deteriorating heart condition continues too. And if you read The List, you know Nick Fury has just found the names of the remaining members of a super-secret group of people running the world. The new Secret Warriors picks up from there.

Read more!

Reviews - Week of October 21, 2009

***Book of the Week***

Mighty Avengers #30
Writer: Dan Slott, Christos Gage / Artist: Sean Chen
I almost considered dropping this book. Funds are getting tight and this book doesn't really have much to do with the greater Marvel Universe. Thank goodness I kept it in my "buy pile." From the hilariously written opening recap page, I remembered why Mighty Avengers is one of the funnest books to read. Slott and Gage are quickly becoming some of my favorite writers, as they create an awesome story with plenty of action, character development, and humor (probably the 3 most vital parts to a successful comic book). I'm not even a big fan of Hank Pym, but the writing duo actually manages to make him a character worth reading about. The "call to arms" also was very exciting to read. Some fans might see this as a slap in the face to the title team, seeing as how they're a rag-tag group of heroes and needed the help of the A-listers. I, however, do not. The Mighty Avengers are the first to notice the global threat, the only ones who know how to defeat it, and will lead Marvel's greatest characters in battle. What's cooler than that? Sean Chen also manages to impress in this issue. I was a fan of Khoi Pham, but Chen recreates Pham's style, except better. His characters are more dynamic and detailed and his action is smooth and easier to follow. Unless this book drastically changes for the worse, I will gladly keep it in my "buy pile."
IGN - 6.8/10

---

Amazing Spider-Man #609
Writer: Marc Guggenheim / Artist: Marco Checchetto, Luke Ross
Ultimately, this issue amounted to nothing more than filler. Not one significant thing happens. We don't find out why Kane is in town, what happened between Ben Reilly and Raptor, and the story story between Raptor and Spider-Man doesn't progress any. As a matter of fact the only action takes place in the first four pages (a pointless fight between Spider-Man and Kane). The only reason I can come up with for even having this issue is maybe so Marco Checchetto can show how slutty he can draw Peter's roommate, Michelle. Man, does she look like a porn star. As you can imagine, none of his art really fits with the comic. It's a little too dark and realistic for the tone of this book. At the end of the day, I wouldn't blame you for skipping this issue. Heck, I'd congratulate you.
IGN - 6.8/10
Comics Bulletin - 3/5

---

Dark Avengers #10
Writer: Brian Bendis / Artist: Mike Deodato
Before reading this, I stumbled upon an interview with Brian Benids raving about how the issue was so great. Naturally, that got me excited for it. Boy was I fooled. Once again, nothing significant happens, except maybe at the end of the issue (and that's a stretch). The whole issue is just the team bickering with each other until an outlandish threat pops up. Now I know that I said I love the interaction between the team members, but I want results, not just talk. I want to see Bullseye attack Venom for being a wuss, or Moonstone manipulate a man into helping her and then punishing him for it. Venom's wuss act was mildly funny, but I don't read the book to see him be funny. I read it to see sociopaths pretending to be heroes explode (figuratively speaking...maybe literally too). The threat I spoke of earlier never really shows itself, but it does provide a potentially cool battle and puts Osborn in an interesting situation that could, if used properly, lead to the inevitable meltdown we've all been waiting for. No complaints can be made for Mike Deodato's art. As always, his characters are dynamic and cool, his shadows create an ominous atmosphere, and his action is pleasantly chaotic. Come to think of it, maybe I misread the aforementioned interview. Maybe Dark Avengers #11 is going to be the best book Bendis has ever written. It certainly looks to have a lot of potential.
IGN - 8/10
Comic Book Resources - 2.5/5

---

Invincible Iron Man #19
Writer: Matt Fraction / Artist: Salvador Larroca
Here we go! A book that doesn't disappoint! It's hard to believe that this story has been building for a year, but I must say, it was worth it. During a time when Tony Stark could not have been more hated, Matt Fraction creates a plot that makes a hero of him to us (the fans) and Marvel's civilians. The battle between Iron Patriot and Iron Man was also impressive. From Osborn's arrogance to Stark's barbaric strength, every scene hit an emotional note that really had me rooting for the hero. I think I finally know what Maria Hill's mission was and hope it ends with the destruction of Iron Patriot, a lame concept from the get-go, let's face it. The ease of her escape, with Black Widow and Pepper, from HAMMER was a little disappointing, but then again, it was just Victoria Hand they were up against. Who is this girl anyway? She needs to get her ass beat. Larroca's art this issue is really hit or miss. His action and panels with Iron Man armors are amazing. His character work and facial expressions are not. Let's get back to the good stuff though. The best thing about this issue is its setup for the next. It seems like Tony has thought this plan through to the very end, managing to get even his old comrade and foe, Thor, involved. Will he help? Is he still furious? I really can't wait to see him in these pages. Invincible Iron Man is actually turning into the best Avengers book on the market, which is the highest of any praise I can give.
IGN - 8.4/10
Comic Book Resources - 3.5/5
target="_blank" - 4.5/5

---

Spider-Woman #2
Writer: Brian Bendis / Artist: Alex Maleev
The mood and feel of this book really gives off a sense of danger and anxiety. I love the way Spider-Woman describes the pain of battle and strategy of a prison break. However, that's the only thing that happens. As a matter of fact, the events of Spider-Woman #2 take place within the span of minutes. This issue basically serves as an introduction to Spider-Woman's pheromone powers to new readers. Her narration of how the power works is extremely well written, but I feel the issue would have been better served if it was just supplementary material in the back of the book. That way we can get more story in the meat of the book. Once again, Alex Maleev's art is fantastic. He really does a great job depicting Spider-Woman's ambivalence and anxiety while also drawing some awesome venom blasts and action panels. I am a little worried about how dark the look is though. I wonder if his style will translate to a scene that actually takes place in daylight. This issue may not have been everything I was hoping for, but I what I got was a very well written character piece, which is always a good thing.
IGN - 8.8/10
Comic Book Resources - 3.5/5

Read more!

New Comics - Week of October 21, 2009

No slow one this week. Marvel decided to unleash most of its biggest titles tomorrow, with Invincible Iron Man #19 topping the list. This issue will be the conclusion of "World's Most Wanted" and features the long awaited battle between Stark and Osborn. I have a feeling the events in this issue will tie in strongly to Siege, which will greatly affect these two gentlemen.

Another book I am very much looking forward to, is Dark Avengers #10. This series has been at its best when focusing on the relationships amongst its team members and Osborn's loosening grip on reality. Also, Brian Bendis has said that this issue is probably one of the greatest books he's ever written. Strong words considering Bendis is also the man who reinvented Daredevil and wrote Civil War: The Confession.

Some other good books coming out are Amazing Spider-Man #609, Mighty Avengers #30, and Spider-Woman #2. Spidey continues his battle with Razor in his book, as we learn just what went down between the new villain and Ben Reilly. In Mighty, we get a huge battle featuring a number of Avengers against The Unspoken. And the first issue of Spider-Woman was stellar. I have no reason to doubt that Bendis won't be at his finest writing this series.

Read more!