Last Week In Comics: Earth’s New Inconvenient Truth
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
Bizzaro is a backwards Superman vs Non who’s name is Non backwards.
Action Comics Annual #11 is the conclusion to the Last Son arc that originally started in 2006. When the arc started I was enjoying the new take on the Zod, the Kryptonian criminals from the Phantom Zone, and even the young Chris Kent.
Seeing Lex Luthor share with Superman all the ways that the evil genius had concocted to kill the Kryptonian so that together they could put Zod and his army back into the Phantom Zone was classic. The only part, other than waiting so long, that I have questions about from this issue is where is Chris?
In the stories that take place after the first parts of this story line in the monthly series we see Chris living as Lois and Clark’s adopted son, yet he goes missing at the end of this annual… so how did he come back? Wikipedia has an interesting take on this story and the fact that Chris has been featured in recent Superman comics: “Interestingly, due to the pronounced scheduling problems with the arc, a line of dialogue was incorporated into Action Comics Annual #11 (”I even got to meet Robin.”) that insinuates that the invasion of Zod’s army took place after Chris received his wristwatch, which would place the events of Superman #664, 668, and 673 chronologically before those of Action Comics #846 (despite the fact that the latter was released earlier).”
If not for the dialog and story that is all the Atom would do
“shrink and punch stuff really hard.”
All New Atom #23 continues the saga of the monster from Ryan’s blood. Last issue Ryan enlarged a monster from in his blood that was making him ill. The monster then rampaged through Ivy Town attacking people. In this issue we see that the monster did not eat/kill it’s victims, but instead sent them to a microscopic savage lane. I still don’t get the whole “monster in the blood” aspect and that makes this “savage land” story weird.
I liked this concept better when it was (and still is - read below) called The War That Time Forgot.
I know that Spidey has always been slightly Emo, but drugs?
Amazing Spider-Man #558 features both new villains from Brand New Day: Menace and Freak…both of which I hate. Menace may be a good villain after the connection, or no connection, to Osborne and the Green Goblin is made but this is dragging on too long. And don’t get me started on the mutated stem cell drug addict… Bring back the Mayan Snow Ninjas, they made Spidey the best comic of that week.
Three words: Childs Play - Chucky
When I started to get back into comic in the ’80s one of the first Batman arcs I purchased was the Grant and Breyfogle Scarface origin. Detective Comics #844 gives the origin of the new, and possibly now deceased, Ventriloquist and Scarface. Even though the action was limited in this issue I enjoyed the detail and intricate nature of the origin. The only gripe I have is where is Jezebel Jet, the woman that is rumored to make Bruce give up the Bat, instead we get the continued flirtation with Zantana.
Iron Man: Manowar - A Valiant/Marvel Crossover and Game - Part 2
Invincible Iron Man #1 had a cover that made me think of big Joe’s work at Valiant Comics yet the inside featured a story that most people could just pick up and enjoy. This was not my favorite issue of Iron Man, but with the success of the movie this comic is a great starting point for new readers.
In the words of Indiana Jones and Silent Bob: “No ticket!”
Nightwing #144 featured some of most fluid action shots of a hero who was a circus acrobat prior to being a vigilante. Not only has Nightwing been confident, smart, and high on action the story has also been engaging. It may be developing slowly but I like the character moments - this was a great read.
Veterans from every war fighting a T-Rex - SWEET!
The War That Time Forgot #1 was exactly what I expected - soldiers fighting in Jurassic Park. I never read the original title and I am not sure if the original featured soldiers from all different wars stuck in this savage land. I loved this book until the end… I am looking forward to the next issue hoping to explain and make sense of this issue’s last page.
and…
THE BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK:
Rann-Thangar Holy War #1
I thought former Vice President Al Gore was worried about humans ruining the Earth.
I love good Science Fiction, hence the site’s name: SpaceBooger. You know a comic is automaticaly the best comic of the week when imediately after reading it you pull out the Adam Strange, Rann-Thangar War, Mysteries in Space, and 52 to reread in preperation for the rest of the miniseries.
Last Week In Comics: LOSH Times Two
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
Blue Beetle #26 breaks the language barrier and still gives us the best comic of last week.
Batman and Disneyland in the same pop-up books is something beyond even my imagination.
Action Comics #864: I used to hate any story that involved time travel and didn’t include Marty McFly. I think the reason that time travel used to annoy me when I was younger revolved around my grasp on comic book continuity and not having the ability to research stories via Wikipedia. Now that I have collected a large run of Supberboy and the Legion of Super-Heroes from ebay, I am loving almost everything LOSH.
In Action Comics #864 once again the LOSH that I know and love returns from the last arc to bring a villain that has been featured here as the recipient of a Superboy punch on Friday Night Fights. I look forward to how all of this ties into the upcoming LOSH Final Crisis miniseries. Speaking of Final Crisis…
DC Universe 0: The reviews on this comic have been mixed. There is not much that I can say about it that has not already been said… I will add that I enjoyed the one page teaser/titles for all the Final Crisis stories more than the actual comic.
Green Lantern #30: I felt like I was reading “Ultimate Green Lantern #2″ instead of Green Lantern #30. I have always been a fan of Hal Jordan as the Green Lantern, and because of SuperFriends he will always be the one true Green Lantern. Since his “Rebirth” I have enjoyed the return of Hal Jordan. I have even enjoyed the idea that there will soon be many other different colored rings… but messing with his origin without a Crisis, come on!
Braniac has a thirst for knowledge…
… or maybe just dissection.
Legion of Super-Heroes #41: This may not be the Legion I grew up reading or am the most familiar with, but it does share the same writer - Jim Shooter. I decided to start reading LOSH when Shooter came back on board as the writer and I have to say I could not be happier. I have noticed since Shooter started writing this series that there has been a weird emphasis on cursing and teenage sex, weird/kinky sex (I recently purchased the Harbinger hardback and noticed a similar concept).
I am enjoying the woes of Super-Heroes working with politicians, the mystery of the possible Flight Ring espionage, and the continued Alien Destroyer saga.
For some reason when I see this image I think of Aquafresh toothpaste.
Teen Titans #58 showcased Miss Martian and her future self… sister… or other personality. This issue takes place three issues ago which is confusing to begin with, but seeing how the future version of Miss Martian is trapped within the younger brain is straight up confusing. I found myself wondering if these two Martians were sisters after reading the flashbacks. After reading the comic again today to write this review and researching on Wikipedia that the future consciousness is trapped in the present mind of Miss Martian helped make the issue easier to read… but I don’t know if this title will be purchased until the next story arc.
and…
THE BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK:
Blue Beetle #26
I spent more time with this book than any other this past week. I read it once, well more like tried to read it once using body language and context clues, on Wednesday.
I then read the script once chuckling at the dialog and trying to remember the images.
The third time I read the issue it became clear that this was the best comic of last week when reading the Spanish dialog and remembering loosely what the translation was. The dynamic of all the characters in this book made it an amazing comic, whether it is written in your native language or not.
This issue takes place at a family reunion alomst all readers of any age who has ever been to a large family gathering will get some chukles out of the situations, especialy the speach that is given my the most respected member of the family: Grandma.
This is a must read for everyone, no matter what the age or what language you speak, this is a pure “hero” comic… the type of hero we all dreamed of being when we were younger, someone our grandmother would be proud of.
Last Week In Comics: The Science of Super-Heroics
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
Superman and Batman running moonshine during prohibition?
No, they were just trespassing in a government warehouse of kryptonite weapons.
Batman #675 was a trip back to 1994 with exagerated anatomy and millions of little lines on every male face. Chris at the ISB said it best: “it starts to read like a very well-colored issue of X-Force.” I myself did not mind the art that much, but after hearing rumors that the Batman R.I.P. storyline would involve Bruce Wayne choosing love over playing Dark Knight, the revelation of Batman’s secret identity and seriousness of the relationship between him and Jezebel Jet seems quite forced.
On a side note: I like the interaction and teamwork shown by Morrison during the Nightwing and Robin scenes… It makes me wonder about who will become the next Batman since these two former Robins work together so well as a team reminiscent of the original Dynamic Duo.
Ahh a main and stable cast! Lets sing: “We are family! I’ve got all my sisters with me…”
Ok, I’ll stop and move on to the review now.
Birds of Prey #117 is starting to have that family feeling again that made it so enjoyable in the past. Since the inception of this book it has always been part of the “Bat-Family” of books, focusing on many of the females in the Gotham. Since Black Canary left to wed Green Arrow the family dynamic has not been that strong with a rotating cast of female characters. Now with the full inclusion of Misfit, who I have to admit has grown on me, the family dynamic made this issue one of the best of last week.
Oh, and how could I not mention the awesomely stereotypical nerd from Birds of Prey 117 who wears glasses so thick they magnify his eyeballs!
Jimmy your relationship is not the only thing heading to the dumpster!
Countdown to Final Crisis #1 is finally over. One year later and about $160 spent the build up is over… or is it. 52 was awesome and set a high standard for Countdown. I think DC planned for Countdown to be a let down so that the upcoming Final Crisis will look awesome compared to it. Yeah… I have nothing else to say about it…
Superman still refuses to remove his Metal Gear Solid Ninja costume.
Superman Batman #47 continues the Kryptonite Crusade to rid the planet of Superman’s only weakness. This issue is a little “Men in Black” and a little “The Untouchables” with an underground government facility built to house weapons to take down Superman facading as a small town diner. This arc started out strong, and I don’t know if its just me or the story, but it seems to be dragging on too long. I am afraid that this is one of those stories that will be better read in on sitting as a trade, which if that is the case then release it as a trade from the start…
Ok, back to issue 47…
In this issue we see that the government is afraid that one day Superman will go nuts and take over the world, so they created a task force to take him out just in case that ever happens. This story works and was awesome when I saw it the first time on the animate Justice League Unlimited. Anyway even if it seems to be dragging, I am still enjoying it and wonder exactly what the origin of the Kryptonite Doomsday is.
and…
THE BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK:
Justice League of America #20
Justice League of America #20 featured a solo Wally West story with a supporting cast of Wonder Woman and Black Lightning. I used to love the thought balloons in early comics when they shed insight on the character and not the storyline. Thought balloons were great to show what a character was really like, but many times were misused as a story telling devise. This issue of Justice League of America Dwayne McDuffie does a great job of using the narration boxes to build the character of the Flash. We get to see the reasons behind his actions, not to tell us what his actions are or will be. My favorite part of the whole issue was when Wally was reminiscing of the humorous story behind the science of putting out a fire. Its little touches like that along with the prescience of Superman and Batman thorough the dialog that makes Justice League of America #20 and it’s phenomenal character portrayals the BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK.
Last Week In Comics: God Calls Collect
This week’s feature may be a little shorter than normal since most of my time has been dedicated to building my arcade cabinet… I don’t know if it is because I am grumpy, tired, or sick but I had a hard time liking many of last week’s comics…. anyway, lets begin:
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
and I was just wondering why God only appeared and talked to all of those ancient folks…
The above dialog was the only shining moment of Batman and the Outsiders #6. The series continues to focus on action without too much in the way of plot. I understand that it will take Chuck Dixon time to reshape a book created and originally planned by another writer to his personal vision, but six issues later and the only thing consistent about the book is the bickering between characters and stealth missions… And… where the hell did Ralph and Sue Dibny, the Ghost Detectives, that joined the team last issue go?
Nothing says “drama” like an interrogation with a phone book. Catwoman #78 delivers great Will Pfeifer action, plot, dialog, and characters… too bad I am not interested in the Jail Planet anymore. I just hope Selina gets back to Earth for a couple issues before her series is canceled.
Countdown to Final Crisis #2 Was freaking awesome. We finally got to see freaking Darkseid fight his freaking son Orion. The horror of Final Crisis if finally freaking here! Plus on one panel two characters couldn’t seem come up with more than one freaking adjective… some super-heroes should play more Mad-Libs.
Gotham Underground #7 has the war between the Penguin and Tobias Whale escalate and then abruptly end. When this series first started it was a great slug fest featuring all of the Bat-family and some, and issue 7 seemed as if too much plot was squeezed into a couple pages. The art is fantastic, energetic, and reminiscent of the late 80’s and early 90’s eye candy (and I am not just saying that because I know the inker - Jack Purcell). This issue was not as good as the previous six, but with the next issue being the conclusion second to last issue, I am looking forward to seeing how this all ties together and more dynamic artwork showcasing the heroes and villains of Gotham.
I have said before that Robin is becoming the Worlds Greatest Detective that Batman was in the late ’70s, and Robin #173 is an example of that. I used to be upset when DC would bring back a dead character, but with Hal Jordan, Jason Todd, Ra’s Al Ghul, and other once dead characters running around the DCU I am not shocked with the possible return of the Spoiler. Chuck Dixon is a great writer and I have faith in his return to the book he created that the return of the Spoiler, whether it is Stephannie or not, will be handled well.
Yes Joker we get it… now lets get these villains back on Earth… I don’t know about you but I find it awkward that psychopath street wise villains, such as the Joker, are on an alien planet in Salvation Run #7. The Joker just does not strike me as a “cosmic” type of guy…
Superman #675 shows Superman “teaming up” with the enemy he was fighting when aliens choose to attack him. Superman lives up to his “ultimate boyscout” image by attempting to help the injured Daxamites who a couple pages earlier tried to destroy the Earth. The best part was the art when Mon-El was telling the history of the Golem that was released to destroy the planet.
and…
THE BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK:
Amazing Spider-Man #557
No Mayan Snow Ninjas, instead it was Spidey vs a Mayan Snow God! Last week Spider-Man was the best of the week based almost solely on the “extremely unexpected supernatural storyline and classic dialog.” Again these reasons are why Wells’ and Bachalo’s take on Spider-Man is not only the Best of Last Week, it is also THE BEST SINCE BRAND NEW DAY! Because of the last three issues I am not looking forward to the return of the Freak and the Menace I will be forever wishing for more Mayan Snow Ninjas.
Last Week In Comics: Mayan Snow Ninjas!
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
All New Atom #22 continues to entertain us with the attack of the killer virus, or subatomic monster. No, I am not referring to the virus that was built up in Countdown to Final Crisis and wiped out a whole Earth in one issue… No this virus is from the blood of one superhero know as the Atom. The monster that was enlarged from Ryan Choi’s blood continues to ravage Ivy Town like something out of a “B Movie.” As much as I want to pull a MST3K on this issue, I can’t because it was a fun read:. Te best part of the issue is a tossup between the angry homeowner and the demise of the forced romantic interest.
Amazing Spider-Man #555 had the Webhead being all emo like, cracking jokes with Wolverine, and then fighting Mayan Snow Ninjas… Yeah… I said Mayan Snow Ninjas… At first I was disappointed by the continual whining by Peter Parker and even more annoyed by the random encounter with the Mayan Snow Ninjas… But after thinking about all of the Avengers books and this Secret Invasion crap… I decided this silliness is just what Marvel needs. Reading this issue again for the review I decided that I liked this randomness from a Marvel book… it was kind of different… it was fun.
Detective Comics #843 almost made Best Comic of Last Week. It’s dialog was superb from the interaction of Batman and the scared security guard to the flirting of Zatanna, shown above. The issue showed the return of Scarface with a new Ventriloquist, any comic with a well written Scarface is a good comic in my opinion. As I already mentioned the best part of this issue was Zatanna almost begging Bruce to “go steady” since she was the one to erase his memory.
WTF!
As much as I would be interested to see how writers would handle a Batman/Zatanna love affair I think it is quite odd that Batman would be willing to fool around with someone who could, and already had, erased his memory during Identity Crisis. If it was not for that little weirdness this comic and the inclusion of the Moose, this comic would have easily been the best of last week.
Tec 843 also has the return of the recipient of one of Batman’s best KO punches as shown in Friday Night Fights: Knockout! Round 12.
Nightwing 142 again plays the strengths of Dick Grayson well. Nightwing is a master detective like his mentor, but unlike his mentor he is a people person and a leader. All of these character traits are played out well in this team up with Robin to infiltrate the base of those responsible for reanimating dead super-villains. The interaction between Nightwing and Robin was funny it almost reminded me of a Wonder Years episode. Even though it was a sub par ending to the story arc the interaction between the original Boy Wonder and his newest replacement made this issue a fun read.
Secret Invasion #1… Crap! I should have not flipped through it before I read it because once I came to this checklist for 33 crossover issues with more to come after summer I decided not to read it. Thanks Marvel way to scare me off. I only buy Spider-Man comics and was willing to give this “big event” a chance so that maybe I would get back into the Marvel universe upon the completion of the crossover, but NO you had to scare me away with too many tie in titles.
and…
THE BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK:
Action Comics #863
Action Comics #863 was the final issue of the saga of the future Justice League and its crusade against aliens. When this story arc first began it started off slow and I still had an awkward taste from the last interaction of Superman and the Legion in “The Lightning Saga,” but as the story moved on I really began to like it more. The ending seals the deal. Now after seeing Superman being the Superman I remember and enjoy from my youth (see the above image) and stopping a war with just his presence and command, I have to admit that this is my favorite Superman arc since Infinite Crisis… yes this even surpasses the phenomenal “Up Up and Away!” story arc.
Other comics worth mentioning… but maybe not worth buying:
Countdown #4: Ok, we apparently are back to the Jason, Kyle, Dona, Mary, and Ray Palmer story… well after a couple issues of non related content to their cause I completely lost interest. There is only three issues to go so I will finish the series, but I have to admit that the writing and pacing of this weekly series will make me think twice before picking up the next weekly series.
Supergirl #28: MMM DROP!
Last Week In Comics: Amazing Spider-Man 554 was better the first time as the “Death of Superman”
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
In Batman and the Outsiders #5 Geo Force says enough is enough… a crisis looses meaning the third or fifth time around. I miss the Barr and Arparo Batman and the Outsiders, no matter how much I like Chuck Dixon’s work this new series doesn’t have the same appeal.
Amazing Spider-Man #554 was better than the last two issues together. This issue had it all: Spidey still hated by the public, the dumb Parker luck, and a Meth smoking super villain. Not only is he hopped-up his origin revolves around Stem Cell research.
Where have I heard this before?
Yeah, I liked this idea the first time when Doomsday killed Superman and didn’t offend any pro-life organizations.
I am resisting the urge to make the obvious “fastest man alive” joke. Instead I will say that since the death of Bart Allen the Flash is quickly running out of time on my pull list. The Flash #238 may have been the last straw. Not only is Wally’s family hampering the story the main villain takes National Enquirer headlines and makes them come true…
There is something about juvenile humor that keeps cracking me up this week. In Robin #172 we see the return of my favorite mortal who believes he is a god: Maxie Zeus. The story moves slowly with a great scene between Tim and Zoanne’s father. The issues ending threw a hint at the upcoming Robin/Spoiler one shot… but the solicit for next weeks issue said “Bizarre Love Triangle” showing images of Robin, Violet, and Spoiler… since when did Tim inherit Dick’s womanizing Robin trait? Or is it just a bad solicit? I guess we will have to wait until next week.
Superman/Batman Annual #2 was the BEST COMIC LAST WEEK!
This issue takes place in the past, a past where Alfred just learns of Superman’s secret identity and Robin goes all “fanboy” when he first meets the Man of Steel. This issue was hands down the BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK, and even the best DC comic featuring the Big Two in a while. S/B Annual #2 was a stand alone issue where Superman becomes powerless and Bruce shows his human side. With Superman powerless Batman and Robin are watching the chaos erupt in Metropolis when Robin gives one of the best quotes in comic history: “Gotham needs Batman and Robin, but the WORLD needs Superman.”
Batman proceeds to train a powerless Clark Kent to fight crime again, but he does not just strengthen Clark’s body Batman focuses on Clark’s spirit. In the end the training of Clark’s spirit and Robin’s reminder of who Superman really is powers our hero up just in time to save the day.
Other Stuff I Read Last Week
Birds of Prey #116: Ready for the next story arc, but I may not buy it.
Catwoman #77: Can we get Selina back to reality? There were some good character building moments in this issue, but if I have to read about Catwoman in an virtual reality I should only have to buy it with virtual cash.Countdown 6: This was a good issue and it reminded me that there really are writers for this series. The narrative of Earth ?’s Buddy Baker was informative and entertaining. I could follow the story clearly and now know that Karate Kid released a virus that will wipe out every human on every of the 52 Earths. The best part was that the narrator was Buddy Baker - Jack Kirby’s original OMAC.
Justice League of America #19: Blah… I am really getting tired of all this Salvation Run stuff… It’s not that good of a story to be crossing over into Gotham Underground, Catwoman, and Justice League of America.
Last Week In Comics: Hot Dogs and Aikido
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
Tiny Titans #2 again makes me chuckle. For a comic intended for smaller children this comic was in the running for best of last week against grownup comics. I’m sure that this comic is entertaining and fun for younger readers, but for us old timers who are familiar with the Titans continuity there is many a laughs for us, including the above picture of Terra throwing rocks at her fellow Titans.
Batman Confidential #14 was pretty darn good and a second Spacebooger Aikido reference in five days. This is the second issue of a story continued from a 1984 Batman story. A recap of that 1984 story can be found here. For those of you that are even more behind in the reading of last weeks comics I may spoil the issue, so skip to the next image please.
The original 1984 story told the tale of two Batmen; both born by their parent’s death and both sworn to put fear into men similar to their parent’s murderers. At the end of the original story the Wraith falls to his death. In this issue we find out that once the Wraith learned that he and the Batman were exactly the same/opposite he wanted everything that the Batman had. With Nightwing, the original Robin, at Batman’s side we find out that this new Wraith is younger and about the same age as Nightwing… I can’t wait for the next issue!
Booster Gold #7 was good, but not up to par with the previous seven (remember last issue was #0). In this issue we find out that the Blue Beetle from the future, that led Booster and the other Beetles to rescue Ted Kord, is not a “Blue Beetle” but instead named the “Black Beetle” who is working with the current Supernova, who is Booster’s evil father. Confusing huh… well that is why I am not a professional comic book writer because it all makes sense in this issue. This issue is definitely a set up for something big and fun because Rip Hunter is ask Daniel Carter to don the Supernova persona again to fix the error in the future caused by Booster going back in time to save Ted… Ok, I am going to stop now… just read the issue yourself it will all make sense.
Gotham Underground #6, like Booster Gold #7, was another set up issue. Not too much happened: Batman escapes from prison, the Penguin/Whale war begins, and Nightwing gets shot. I think this issue is the calm before the storm, matter of fact I know this because I talk with the series inker Jack Purcell often and he said “I am cranking on GU#8 and its a really kick ass fight between Batman and *****!! You’ll love it!” (I edited out the name, you will have to read it yourself or wait until the week after.)
Green Arrow & Black Canary #6 was the BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK!
The last couple of issues of GA&BC have been character builders with Ollie sulking over his son Connor being shot. The sulking is over and now the newlyweds are now in action trying to find out who the mysterious shooter was that put Connor in a coma. Angst is out and an accent is now in. This issue starts out with the couple undercover in a humorous situation with arms dealers inquiring about a mysterious ship with cloaking ability. An interesting motorcycle ride later and the issue ends with something that I don’t think anyone, including Black Canary, saw comming: the true identities of the shooters. Great issue, great pacing, and importantly great character building. Green Arrow & Black Canary #6 may not have been the most exciting or intriguing, but it was the BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK not just because of the ending but the overall content of a solid stand alone story that makes the reader want to come back next month.
JLA Confidential #54 closes out the series as expected of a feel good group of goody goodies. In the end Titus, the self proclaimed god and ruler of everything, ends up losing to the JLA in a feel good type of way. Titus may have lost, but to beat him the JLA made him one with everything… something he always wanted. Yeah a little odd and over the top but a good ending to a series that was intended to be a “greatest hits” sort of comic.
Wonder Woman #18 was purchased only because Gail Simone is writing, and it was highly recommended. I am a fan of almost everything that Gail has written especially her run on The All New Atom. So expecting something Secret Six meets the out of touch warrior princess, I was not let down. The opening scenes where Wonder Woman forces her courtship upon Nemesis was classic Simone and the trend continued to the alien planet. The issue also put Wonder Woman in a different light, it showed her a warrior that is happy being herself intermingling with human not trying so hard to be a human. I have never been a regular reader of Wonder Woman’s solo series, but with Gail Simone writing I will definitely give it a chance for a while.
Some More Comics…
Amazing Spider-Man #553: This issue was better than the first outing of the 3rd rotation of the Brand New Day Spider-Man. Even though it was a better issue the same things happened: Spidey hated, Peter dwelling on the fact that everyone hates his alter ego, and another issue with web fluid. The references to the previous issues was almost the only tie to any other issue since the split up of the Parkers. At least Spidey has the big McFarlane eyes again.
Countdown #7: I have been complaining about pacing for the last couple issues, this issue I will finally shut up. By shutting up I can’t tell you that the putting together all of the characters seen throughout the series together to “save the day” feels real forced. With 45 issues invested I wont give up yet. Plus Final Crisis, as horrible as another company wide “big” crossover event sounds, with Morrison and Jones at the helm I have to admit that I am excited… if only this countdown would end now.
Salvation Run #5: I am not a big fan of the off world jail that seems ripped out of Marvel’s Civil War, but with the Joker as one of the main characters it is a must read. This must read is also a must forget. The only interesting thing is that Apokolips uses the same planet to train the Parademons. This story ties into Gotham Underground and looks as if now Salvation Run ties into Countdown and Final Crisis so I will probably continue to buy it… but that does not mean I have to enjoy it.
Superman #674: This issue has the perfect ingredients for a horible review: third rate villain, outrageous science, and an alien encounter. Instead of a being a negative these three things were the exact opposite. It seems as if there is going to be a corny story that starts out with the perfect home that Superman built for the Kents after Chris trashed the original. We also see Superman trying again to cure Mon El’s lead poisoning while listening to how Mon El escaped against his race’s will. The story continues with a third rate villain who’s power copies the powers of those around. This is definitely a loser because he once lost to the Justice League and is now seeking revenge on Superman for locking him up. Any way… Superman was about to outsmart the villain when aliens appear recharging the powers of the copycat. At first I thought this was a corny issue, but upon its completion I changed my mind. Instead of corny it was fun in a Silver Age way.
Last Week In Comics: Who Cares What World We’re On?
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
The All New Atom 21 continues it reliance on scientific inner dialog, minus all the quotes. With Ryan being the only character in two thirds of the book inner dialog is a must. I remember when almost magically the thought balloons disappeared from comics, I miss them at least I have inner dialog… and the Head!
The Head loves old sitcoms, who doesn’t… and why was Buddy never left in charge?
The All New Atom 21 showed Ryan Choi dive into a sample of his own blood looking for problems caused by using the dwarf star material that allows him to shrink. Some great science is explained as to why he modifies his costume to swim with cells in his own blood. Inside his blood the Atom finds an unknown microbe a fight ensues leaving Ryan ill. Great set up and a great first issue by the new creative team… almost the best comic of last week.
Well said Rip Hunter!
Justice League - New Frontier Special #1 was a great! The only reason I will not give it the honors of being the best comic last week is that everything in this issue has been done before. Just because it has been done before… some of this seems better. I remember reading the Dark Knight Returns and watching that monumental battle where the mere mortal Batman defeats the god-like alien Superman. The first chapter of the New Frontier Special is a missing chapter depicting the battle briefly mentioned in the original mini-series. The battle is what you expect, but Darwyn Cooke adds the nostalgia and appeal from of the New Frontier Series. The other two stories were great reads and in today’s comic market they can be hard to find. As
Nightwing #142 was the Best Comic of Last Week!
Many people like to talk about Nightwing… or complain that he was going to be the martyr death of Infinite Crisis yet complained that his solo series sucked since Chuck Dixon left. I have always loved Nightwing and it seems that Peter Tomasi realizes who Nightwing really is and what fans expect of him.
Many say that Tomasi is finally understands the character and understands how a Nightwing solo series should be written, but I think its more of a rebuilding. I loved the Dixion & McDaniel run but it was about Dick becoming his own hero. Tomasi is not continuing that, instead he has turned Nightwing into a full fledged hero deserving his own book. No more is Nightwing “Batman Lite” he now is forging his own way as a hero.
In this issue we see Nightwing being a detective, not a dark knight detective like his mentor, but a detective that is well liked by the whole DCU. In Nightwing’s quest of the metahuman grave robbers Dick asks for help from Doctor Mid-Nite, borrows equipment from Batman, and jokes with the newest boy wonder who has joined on this quest. Nightwing 142 is the Best Comic of Last Week because like the title character it is likable, has all the bells and whistles, and its a hell of a lot of fun.
Other Mumbles
Amazing Spider-Man 552: The third creative team makes it debut… and nothing happens. Peter has more bad luck, gets even more bad publicity, is shot at by NYPD, and a new lackluster villain appears. The only thing keeping me around is the big picture, and that is still looking good.
Countdown 8: For the last couple of weeks I have been complaining that the story was OK, yet the pacing was too fast. This issue the pacing finally slows down enough to realize that many events may tie together nicely, yet they seem random. I am ready for the ending… real ready!
Detective Comics 842: Filler!
Yup thats about it. This comic is a perfect example of a Fill-In Issue. Batman decides not to worry about his own hallucinations in his self titled series or the fact that his creation Brother Eye took over Apokolips last week, instead he is traveling around the world to learn about his new “cursed” armor.Green Lantern 28: I don’t know what to say other than I liked it. I’m not too sure of my opinion on the multi colored lanterns, but the dialog between Hal and Sinestro was great. The fact that the Alpha Lanterns were created so that the Green Lanterns would fear doing wrong is a great concept. Geoff Johns has weaved a great tale since the Rebirth of Hal Jordan and I look forward to reading more.
Last Week In Comics: Beetle Mania
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
Two weeks ago I went on about how Booster Gold was one of the best monthly comics around, and it is one of the best around. The other in that same category is the Blue Beetle. If you read this column (which is posted every Monday) you will know that Jaime Reyes is one of the best new characters in ages. Blue Beetle 24 is the BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK and it tells a tale of one teenager and his phenomical supporting cast trying to dismantle an alien armada that plans to take over the Earth. Yeah, I know standard comic book stuff, but what makes Blue Beetle so great is the dialog, the personality of the main character, and the distinct personality of his supporting cast.
At the end of issue 23 the Reach (the crazy aliens hellbent on taking over the Earth) removed their alien technology from Jaime that gave him the sweet powers for the previous 22 issues. In this issue we see the power of the human will from Jaime who has planned to be all kamikaze like and take out the Reach’s mothership from the inside.
This image alone shows why Blue Beetle 24 was the
BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK!
High-five from Batman. Thats about the only thing that I enjoyed from Batman 674. I think that Grant Morrison is a great writer but these last two hallucination filled issues really confused me. As far as I can tell someone was manipulating Gotham Police Officers bodies so that when Batman finally dies someone could take his place. I think thats the plot… but I am not sure… and right now I don’t care because I can read Blue Beetle instead.
JLA Classified 53 showed Aquaman blasting a self proclaimed god in the face… I got my three dollars worth right there. The story… well I keep making the flashback to a flashback reference and I will do it one more time by saying this is the longest flashback in a flashback series ever. I love Roger Stern’s work but this it taking too long… especially for a flashback in a flashback series.
Legion of Super-Heroes 39 had everything I expected from a superhero team book.
- Team dynamic - Check
- Individual Characterization - Check
- Overlaying Continuing Story with a Mystery - Check
- Closure for the individual issue - Check
With Jim Shooter back I am enjoying “relearning” his take on the characters he used to write.
Did I mention that I am a fan of Blue Beetle? Did I mention that his solo book is the best monthly book… until the next issue Booster Gold comes out. In Teen Titans 56 Blue Beetle again makes an apperance. I call it an apearance because I am not quite sure that he is on the team, I think he is just around to tick off Kid Devil. Speaking of Kid Devil this issue focuses on him annoying every other Titan. This issue, and the last couple, seem to be back on track of what I expect for the Teen Titans, but… Terror Titans! I am sick of all these Bizzaro Titan teams.
Quick Mentions
Action Comics 862: Many of today’s comics seem to be written in chapter type arcs that will work great in the trade but suck royally as individual issues. This Action Comics and Legion of Super-Heroes run is an example of a great modern comic. Each individual issue is a great chapter in the larger story, yet each issue has its own smaller story with closure. This issue we learn a couple of important facts mixed in with some action that gives this issue a solid start and end. I am looking forward to seeing what the next “chapter” brings.
All Star Batman & Robin 9: I really don’t want to talk about it since everyone else on the internet has either proposed marriage or condemned it to hell already. I will say that I do take this series for what it is and because of that the whole yellow scenes and the banter between the two “heroes” was great. But as a Batman fan Frank Miller does not want me to be comfortable. So in this issue we see Robin heartlessly almost kill a man… and then everyone cries.
Countdown 9: I am glad to see that everything is coming together and making sense… but it’s moving too fast. The series had a different, and better, pace in the middle. I miss that pace. There is too much going on with too little explanation or character development in issue 9.
52 The Crime Bible 5: What a great ending. If you have trudged your way though this miniseries the ending was satisfying. Thats all I have to say is satisfying. Being a huge fan of the O’Neil run on the Question I am quite satisfied with the way this ended… I didn’t see that coming.
Last Week In Comics: Full of Bat-Stuff
SpaceBooger’s weekly review of last weeks comics is back giving a fresh take on 5-day-old comics:
How can I resist a Monty Python reference… or the fact that the dino is easily seen in every Bat-Cave shot.
Superman & Batman 46 was the BEST COMIC OF LAST WEEK!Last month we saw Aquaman stand up to both Batman and Superman laying a little “Eco-Guilt” on both heroes, mainly the Man of Steel. Apparently Aquaman’s guilt trip only lasted as long as his monthly series because Bats and Supes are once again ridding the world of Kryptonite. This month’s quest puts Superman in contact with what Red Arrow calls “Magic-K.” What is magic K you ask, well it seems to be the equivalent to marijuana to Kryptonians. Superman Batman #46 is the JLU meets Half Baked, with a little Monty Python and the Holy Grail to make it easily the best comic of last week.
Batman Confidential 13 Scooby-Doo mask wearing Batman gave me happy flashbacks of the Jim Arpo days, which is appropriate since this series takes place during the Disco Nightwing days.
I always wondered how Batman’s ears fit under those masks?
Birds of Prey 115 put me through the same trite arguments I hear from my middle schoolers everyday. The plot between Misfit and Black Alice does nothing for me and seems to be moving too slow to be going anywhere either.
Robin 171 marks the return of the “Red Bird.” I find it awesome that Chuck Dixon is back and all of a sudden so is the Red Bird. Dixon can write a good story but the Spoiler stuff seems forced, but I like the detective work and am glad that Dixon is continuing the detective aspect of the book from before his return.
Quick Reviews
Amazing Spider-Man 551: This issue gets my “Meh” award for the week. The dialog is great as is the humor, but the story is so-so. I would highly suggest reading this issue and continuing the series because since Brand New Day began each issue ties together smoothly without the “wait for the trade” feel.
Batman and the Outsiders 4: Lets bring in a new character to the team to fight another member of the team - twice. Yeah, thats about it other than a reprogrammed “good” OMAC named “REMAC” that can shape shift in the same visual manner as Mystique from the X-Men movies.
Catwoman 76: A great read, a fun read with Selina having Superman type powers on an alternate Earth. Like I said fun, but I see no real point to the issue.
Countdown 10: This was so bad that I… purchased and read it anyway. I am so invested in this series and yet it has so let me down recently. I have been complaining for the rushed story the last couple of weeks. I feel that the rushing of the story is ruining characterizations that were formed at the beginning, now the art is joining in. The art for this issue was horrible… no witty criticisms, it was that bad.
Justice League of America 18: Slow and action packed… This story could have been done in one issue instead of being broken into three parts (the third part coming next month) instead we get what could be the middle of a great story with a better back-up. Yes the Red Tornado story is far better than the extended version of Sanctuary.
Superman Confidential 12: Yeah, this one is not doing it for me. Both Confidential books are hit or miss with me so I will not be picking up the rest of this Toy Man story. I’ll try again next arc.
Quick Updates
About...
Categories
- Ads
- Advice
- Art
- Blog
- Comics
- Forgotten
- Friday Night Fights
- Last Week In Comics
- Links
- Meme
- Review Question
- Reviews
- Site News
- Sports
- Video Games
- WebComic
- Writing
Store
Links
- Always Bet on Bahlactus
- Angry Zen Master
- Bad Simian Blog
- BeaucoupKevin
- Bully Says: Comics Oughta Be Fun!
- Chris’s Invincible SuperBlog
- Collected Editions
- Dave’s Long Box
- Extra Life
- Hero Sandwich
- Jimmy Olsen’s Blues
- Mike Sterling’s Progressive Ruin
- Near Mint Heroes
- Polite Dissent
- Slay, Monstrobot of the Deep!!
- The Legion Omnicom
CBR Feed
- The Buy Pile
- Marvel's "American Dream" #1 sells out
- Ray Harryhausen's "Flying Saucers VS The Earth" #1 sells out
- Mercy Rule: Spurrier talks Ghost Rider Annual #2
- FIRST LOOKS: Twilight Guardian #1, Madame Mirage #6
IGN Comics Feed
- Iron Man Recruits Brian Bendis
- Secret Invasion: The Second Interrogation
- Iron Man #29 Preview
- Mighty Avengers #14 Preview
- Wolverine Origins #25 Preview
Respect
Recent Comments