DC Special: Raven #3 - DC

I'm starting to sense a pattern here. My only question is, why doesn't Raven see it? These emotion bases events keep happening around her. And, because of her empathic powers, her first conclusion is that, whatever the problem is somehow her fault. I know she's got a lot of angst and parent issue built up . . you know, because of Trigon and all. But almost every time, the problem has been because of someone around her doing something. Not necessarily because of her own actions. That's the case with this story. A doctor in a nearby institute is doing experiments with the Medusa mask in an attempt to bring his daughter out of a coma. He's already tried light and sound . . now he wants to try emotion. Anyways, the 2 times he's attempted to use the mask, it's caused emotional bedlam in Raven, Rachel's, nearby school. Since Rachel's been there both time . . in the middle of everything . . she assumes that she's losing control of her powers and it's bleeding over into her fellow student's psyches. That's a pretty big jump assuming that she does exercises every day to keep her emotional demons at bay. She's probably more in control, and in touch with, her powers than any other member of the team. But, it's something that she worries about at all times. She's even having nightmares, which, I guess, is the real reason she's making the jump in logic. Since Marv Wolfman created this character, I'm sure he knows her better than any of us. So he's the obvious choice to script this story. But what really stands out about this series is the artwork of Damion Scott. It's young, fresh, hip . . it's everything this series needs. He and Marv have put together a great insight into Raven's paranoia and fears. I'm really enjoying this series, and I can't wait for the Cyborg mini.

the War that Time Forgot #1 - DC

I really was on the edge about picking up this book. I never was really a big War-Story person, but then I read someplace that this title may somehow be remotely tied to the Final Crisis stuff that's going on this summer. I'm sure it will be a very remote association, but, I guess we'll just have to wait and see about that. Anyways, as I said, I was on the fence until I got to the shop and saw it sitting on the counter. First of all it has a fantastic Neal Adams cover. For regular price. Then I opened it up to look at Al Barrionuevo's art, and it is stunning. I thought Bruce Jones did a pretty decent job with the story. It's kind of hard to tell right now, because this one, really, is just the set-up issue. We see all these soldiers, or war-heroes, popping in on this island from all different time-periods. There's actually quite a few that are already there. The real problem though, is all of them getting along long enough to not be eaten by all the various dinosaurs that also live there. At the end a new warrior pops in . . a woman . . who definitely looks like she's from the distant future. Overall I liked the book. Bruce is definitely a talented scribe, and I've been a huge fan of Al's art. So with the Neal Adam's covers I thought, what the heck, I'll give it a shot. It looks like next issue's cover is by Brian Bolland. It'll be interesting to see how this all unfolds, and where they go with it. What the heck? I mean, I'm reading Western books, so why not some War stories. I might as well keep my reading interests eclectic.

Justice League Unlimited #45 - DC

This issue actually had a pretty decent message for the kids. Gorilla Grodd decides he's going to take down the Justice League. So he steals an armored car, and then, in a tractor-beam or something, he holds it over the streets of Metropolis. Then, of course, in comes the Justice League. His plan was never really to steal the Platinum in the truck . . he just wanted something to draw in the heroes, and then he turns another beam on them that turns off all of their powers. This was his real goal, so that the team of henchmen that he had assembled could ransack the city without any repercussions. But, what this issue really showed was that it's not the powers that make the hero. Even without their powers, they were doing everything they could to save the citizens that were caught in the cross-fire of Grodd's schemes. Even at the risk of their own lives. They never even hesitate. Anyways, like I said, it had a nice moral. I thought. I really enjoy the Johnny DC line . . especially Teen Titans Go!, and Justice League Unlimited. I think they're good solid stories for the kids. Keep it up!

Metal Men #8 - DC

I really like this book. The Metal Men are some of my favorite characters of all time. I have . . almost . . every appearance that they've ever made. But I gotta say, in all that time . . in all that rich history . . things were never, ever, explained is such detail as they were in this series. And, while I appreciate that . . I think that this series will be like the bible of the Metal Men for any future series . . it was a bit confusing, because we had so much stuff being thrown at us. Like the big alchemical creature with the pyramid on his head and the one eye. I'm a little confused about if he came from the past or the future. I kind of get what he was after, but then in this issue, Will and Professor Morrow take him out, but it isn't really explained what happens to him. I have a feeling this guys going to pop up again. I definitely don't think he's down for the count. Also, at the end of the issue, Will's brother, David, gets caught in the time-stream and something happens to him that turns him in to another Metal Man. He's a new one, Viridium, and he definitely has it out for Will and his band of metal miscreants. I thought Duncan Rouleau did a wonderful job with this series. Both in story and art. I'm not sure how much . . or how many ideas . . Grant Morrison gave Duncan, but there were some brilliant ideas in here. Like I said, things that will define every future story of these heroes. For that I'm thankful. There were just times that I felt like I was sitting in on a science class. Which, overall, is ok. I think everything was accomplished that they wanted to accomplish. I'm sure we'll see a new series from them sometime in the next year or so. It'll be interesting to see where they go from here. I really do love these characters.

Midnighter #19 - WildStorm

This issue wraps up the Generation 8 story-line. Remember, a couple of issues ago, somebody . . or somebodies, sicked this rabid dog on the Authority. Or more specifically, the Midnighter. I guess they thought that he was the weak point in their security. He actually made it to the ship, but the rest of the team made pretty short work of him. He tried to take them out 1 at a time, but when he got to Jenny, she simply said "door", and he was back in the Midnighter's house. However, he wasn't dissuaded, because this is literally what he had been trained, and bred, for. But, as with most protagonists, they severely underestimated the Midnighters talents and resolve. They think of the Midnighter as an "anti-hero", a thug, a fighter. But what they don't realize is that he doesn't do any of that because he has to. To him, it's not his job. That's literally, who he is. It's his whole life. He doesn't think about it, because it's every cell of his being. To him, taking out an opponent is like breathing. It's as natural as sweating, or growing your hair. At the end, as he's got him on the ropes, he tells him "You forgot one thing. I live for this. It's who I am, what I do and I . . love it. You asked me if I'd thought this through. I always think it through. Consider my options. Doesn't mean I always opt for the quickest kill. Sometimes I'm in the mood to savor the process, wring every last bit of enjoyment out of it before ending it the only way it can ever end . . . just like this." But with that, his civilian identity in Harmony is pretty much kaput. And Midnighter walks off into the sunset with "gen-8" over his shoulder, and Mindy being left behind. I think there's one more issue, but that may be the end of this series. That's to bad. I felt that Keith Giffen was just hitting his stride. Also Lee Garbett was coming along as a pretty talented artist. I hope this isn't the end, but with everything else that's going on in the Wildstorm Universe, I think it may have to be . . for a while. Sad!

Action Comics Annual #11 - DC

I really, really liked this book. I thought the story-line was incredible. And of course, Adam Kubert's art was just phenomenal. However, with bated breath, I will say that I was a bit disappointed. Not in this book, and certainly not in this story-line. No my disappointment came from the publishing. I'm sure some of you noticed that we haven't seen anything, or even been hinted at, about this story-line in quite a while. I know that part of that is because of the huge Superman / Legion cross-over that occurred in the last 6 issues. But, this is an Annual. It's not even, really, a part of the regular title. And it could've been printed at any time. Action Comics #865 is out right now, but we haven't seen or heard anything about this story since #851, over a year ago. Yes it was a huge story. And yes it had an epic creative team. But, to me, that's overkill as far as dragging out the suspense of the ending. It's almost to the point of, "Oh yeah! This story never did wrap up . . did it? I almost forgot about that one." And for the $10 variant cover, it wasn't really all that much different from the original. Anyways, having said that . . I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Geoff John and Richard Donner did a wonderful job on this one. They brought Lor-Zod, Christopher Kent, in to this world and made Clark & Lois, as well as us, care about him. He's had a tumultuous 2 years here, but he still seemed like the perfect boy for the Kent's. But all that's over now, because he's been sucked back in to the Phantom Zone. Lex set off a kind of "zone-bomb" over Metropolis, to suck back in everyone that had escaped from it. However, in order for it to be turned off, and not destroy Metropolis in the process, Christopher also had to go back. At the last minute, I think, Superman realizes that, but doesn't want to let go. Literally! Christopher has to be the voice of reason, and tell him that there really isn't any other way. However, we see at the end that he's got Mon-El scouring the Zone for him, looking. So it's definitely not the end. Overall I thought it was a great book. The whole creative team was phenomenal. At the end, as an "afterwards", we get a little 6 page back-up about the zone, and really, all the back-up characters in Superman's life. The artwork in it is by Stephane Roux. She's been doing the covers lately on Birds of Prey. I have to say, these 6 pages look stunning. I don't know if she's going to just stick to covers, or if she's going to do some interiors, but this girl has a definite future in front of her. Except for the publishing faux-pas, I thought this was the best annual we've seen so far this year.

Avengers / Invaders Sketchbook & #1 - Marvel / Dynamite Entertainment

First of all, the thing I liked about the Sketchbook, is that it's filled with lots of character sketches . . hence the title . . by Alex Ross. Although Alex is a huge part of the creative process of the book, we don't get graced with his art. Well . . except for the cover. Also we get a little insight into Alex's and Jim Krueger's thought process on putting this series together. And we get a preview of Steve Sadowski's pencils. I usually like seeing the pages in this style better, because, to me, they just seem more raw and creative. Once they're inked and colored and finished, they look more professional, but, to me, the pencilled art just shows more style. Sometimes the finished art doesn't actually help it as much as they think. I'm not say that that's the case here. This book looks wonderful. That's just an observation I've made from looking at alot of unfinished work. It's just my opinion. The first issue was about what you'd expect. The Invaders are fighting back in WWII when, somehow, on the battlefield, the green gas appears. Obviously they shouldn't just run in to it, not knowing what it is, but it appears in their path and then seems to envelope them. When they come out the other side they're right in the middle of downtown Manhattan. Coincidentally, at the same time they appear, there is a government team of "super-baddies" after Spider-man because, technically, he is still an outlaw. You know . . not having registered. Anyways, their obvious leap in logic is that this is a Nazi trick. And they fight the "seemed" villains accordingly. Since they've been fighting together as a team for years . . they promptly kick their butts. Well . . except for Spider-man. He stays out of the way. And Tony is in SHEILD headquarters when he gets news of the skirmish. He's looking at lots of images, but he's stuck on the iconic picture of Captain America standing among the debris. His heads hung low, and he's just muttering . . "Steve." Like I said, it's about what you'd expect for the first issue. We see the old team in action in WWII, and then . . magically, they're brought to the future. We don't know why, how, or who's behind it . . yet. But . . it should be epic. Just give it time. I'd like to say, if Alex and Jim weren't associated with this title . . I probably wouldn't have picked it up. I like the 2 new Avengers books, but, I'm not like a die-hard fan or anything. So the creative team is the real reason I'm buying it. Also, because of the same logic, I'm not participating in the variant covers. Well . . for 2 reasons. That being the first, and . . they're 1 in 25 and 1 in 50, so I can't see shelling out that much every month for 1 title for the next 12 months. Between the variant and the regular, you're talking at least $30 a month for the next 12. That costs more than something from the Danbury Mint. However, I will say, overall I liked the book. It'll be interesting to see how it all unfolds, and the impact these heroes from another age have upon the current Marvel Universe.

Avengers: Initiative #10 - Marvel

Don't ask me how, but somehow I completely missed this book. I didn't even realize it until I was putting a huge stack of stuff away. All my Avengers stuff is in the same box, but I couldn't find this particular issue. I also couldn't find #10 of the Mighty Avengers, but I just misplaced that one. I thought the 2 would be together, but they weren't. And when I went to the shop today, and saw the cover, I realized I'd never even seen it before. So . . I apologize. Human error . . I guess. At least that's what I'll call it. Anyways, the way the story flowed in issue #11 I thought that I had just missed something when I was reading the last issue. This issue does explain a few things for me, but really, I didn't even realize that I had missed it. When I was reading #11, I thought,"Ok! There's some jumps that have been made. I guess they just wanted to wrap up the storyline quicker than I thought." And, honestly, I still didn't see in this issue where Trauma was killed. Or the scene where Tony let's the New Warriors take off. . . . . . . . . You know what? I'm sorry. I was just looking back at the issue #'s, and I realize I'm confusing myself. Issue #11 is where most of that stuff takes place . . issue #12 is the one I'm thinking of . . that's where most of the story is wrapped up. Oops! Anyways, to point I'm trying to make is . . . . you know what? Never mind! I missed this one. I picked it up later, and . . . it answered a couple of questions for me. I'll leave it at that. There's no point in me elaborating any further because it's 3 months old already. Really, it all comes down to . . I picked it up because I like the series. Issue #13 will be coming out soon . . I'll just get back in to the story there.

Jack of Fables #22 - Vertigo

This issue didn't have it's usual ironic flavor of humor. But . . it was ok. It does go a little overboard sometimes. Anyways, we see an earlier time . . 1883 actually . . when Jack had also emancipated himself of the ostentatious walls of the Burroughs. He was calling himself Smilin' Jack, and he was the leader of the Jack Candle Gang. The reason, I think, the humor was abandoned this issue, is because this one is kind of like a history lesson. Jack had put his gang together, and was running rampant across the Western horizon. This issue, we meet each one, and learn a little of thier backgrounds. They're an eclectic lot of larceny, which includes Indian Wally Broadhome, Coldstream Angus McKee and the Jasper Kid . . who was really from Huntingburg, but they didn't think anyone would respect someone called the Huntingburg Kid. It's those kinds of leaps in logic that makes this book the facetious prose that it is. When I saw the Matthew Sturges was doing the scripts with Bill Willingham, I was afraid that we were going to lose him. But it appears that they are now a writing duo, much in the way of Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti. They've also recently started doing the House of Mystery book together. You know, my only complaint since the beginning of this series is the art. I don't really like the style that Tony Akins uses to illustrate these pages. But . . upon reflecting further, I actually think his style is perfect. These characters are, after-all . . characters . . literally, from the various fables as told around the world. To draw them in a chucky comic-book style, I now think, suits their stature and the "tongue-in-cheek" nature of their adventures. I enjoy reading this book every month. And now . . now that it's graced with these amazing Brian Bolland covers, it's a nice little gem hidden away on most comic racks.

Teen Titans Go! #54 - DC

Another great installment of our young heroes. In this issue, Cassandra decides that she wants to be the new Wonder Girl. What she doesn't know is that every year on "Paradise Island", they have a tournament. It's much like the one where Diana became the emissary to "man's-world". It seems like is kind of an honorary thing. Donna participates, and obviously there's no one that's actually going to be able to beat her . . even though they try. Anyways, Cassie, crashes the party. It seems like it would've been a lot easier if she had just asked, or petitioned, to participate. Then she would have had the same chance as anybody else. But, she has to be headstrong and, since she's a teen-ager, impetuous. However, she is there to help, kind of, when in the middle of everything Trident and his army attack the island. So even thought she doesn't take over for Wonder Girl, she still gets a Titan communicator. Donna suggests that she signs up for Cyborg's "New Teen Titan" training program. It was a fun issue. As always. Todd Nauck's been a regular on this book the last couple of issues. Although this one, he only does the cover. Ethen Beavers does the interior art. But, without looking at the credits, I thought it was Todd. The work looks that close. The only complaint I have is that we aren't seeing anymore new episodes on TV. We only got . . what? . . 4 seasons I think out of them. That's weak! And sad. It was actually a fun cartoon . . without being moronic. And I loved the theme song. Anyways, I'm just glad that the book hasn't gone the way of the show.

Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters #8 - DC

I love these characters. I was thrilled when the first mini-series came out . . about 2 years ago. I was equally thrilled when this series started. However, by the end . . I think we were floundering a little bit. I feel like the series just kind of lost it's way . . for some reason. I feel like the only thing that was really accomplished was introducing some new characters . . and a new "bad-guy". The new characters include, the reintroduction to Red Bee, Captain Triumph, Libertine, Miss Cosmos, and Neon. Red Bee is an old character, but she got amped up and re-vamped a bit. Captain Triumph and Libertine where a couple of the new characters that SHADE came up with to replace the Freedom Fighters. But Libertine doesn't really count, because he got eaten by the bugs. Miss Cosmos used to be Miss America, but when she was killed, she underwent a kind of transformation. And Neon is Ray's dad, Happy. He's also undergone a transformation . . . kind of out of necessity, to save his son. And the new "bad-guy" . . doesn't really have a name, but he's the conglomeration of all the miniaturized soldiers when Emma tried to bring them, and Lester, back to normal size. He / it was already barely controllable, but this issue she ends up pulling Lester out, leaving, they think, the rest to fate. Which they aren't very happy about. So thus we have a new "bad-guy" with a hard on for the Freedom Fighters. Also, at the end of this issue, the fate of the group is kind of up in the air. Some have already moved on, and others are thinking about it. If we get another mini-series out of this, I'm sure the line-up will be different. I, for one, would like to see them come back, sometime. Like I said, I think this particular series kind of lost it's focus, but I still love these characters. I hate to think that their futures are left to limbo. We should be able to do something about that! What do you say?

X-Men Legacy #210 - Marvel

This was an exciting issue. Both for the characters . . and for us. Scott Eaton does the pencils on most of this issue. He's actually a pretty terrific artist. I really like his style. But then, on top of that, we have Greg Land doing the art for all the mind-scape sequences. The last 2 issues, Exodus has been trying to put Charles mind back together. He's made a lot of progress. But, in order for him to take that final step, he has to push him in to battle. And not just any battle, this has to be a battle of the minds . . and on the mind's playing field. Charles takes the bait, and they start going at it. But Exodus' plan isn't actually to fight Charles or to test his mettle. Exodus has been doing all of this because, with the vacuum created by Magneto, or Eric, when he lost his powers . . Exodus is hoping that Charles will lead the Acolytes. Obviously Charles refuses, but it's mostly because, while he seems to be at full strength, power-wise, he's still got a lot of holes when it comes to his memory. As it turns out, he doesn't really want anyone to come along with him on his new journey. He feels like this is something he has to do on his own. "Exodus' strategy was to show me my own folly. My own weakness. He made me relive every mistake that Charles Xavier had ever made. Every scrap of guilt that could be laid at his door. But the man who made those mistakes is dead. His failings and his failures dies with him. I have the chance . . the possibility . . to be someone better." We also get 2 epilogues this issue. In the first we see Rogue heading out into the Australian desert for some reason. She seems to be knowing what she's doing, but . . we don't yet. And in the second we see that there's some major happenings going on inside the Hellfire Club. And of course Sebastian Shaw is right in the middle of it. I think Mike Carey is doing an excellent job with this series. This one kind of feels like the end of the other story-lines, and the beginning of new ones . . . for Charles, Rogue and probably the rest of the X-Men. It's hard to believe that this series is in the 200's already. It seems like just yesterday that all the various Jim Lee issues of #1 had just come out. But time flies when you're having fun!

Ultimate X-Men #93 - Marvel

Now this one . . this one I really enjoyed the ending. I would have to say, this was the best Ultimate X-Men book I've read in quite some time. We ended last issue with Sinister, who has turned in to Apocalypse, having beat down the entire X-Men, the Fantastic Four, and some SHIELD agents to boot. But they Jean got pissed off, as it looked like Apocalypse was going to kill Charles, and begged for the Phoenix to take over her body. Now, for the first 12 pages of this issue, we watch the Phoenix give Apocalypse the whipping he deserves. On the final page of the fight he's begging for mercy. She then informs Scott, and the rest of the X-Men, that it's time for her to leave. As the Phoenix, she's been away for far to long and she has much to do. But before leaving, she chastises Charles for not living up to his potential. "You should be ashamed of yourself. There is so much potential in you, Charles Xavier . . so much you could accomplish . . . I expect you to start over." And with that . . . everything is back to normal. The X-Men are back at the mansion. The rest of the world doesn't remember what just happened, including the FF and SHIELD. And Charles is filled with a renewed sense of purpose. The X-Men still remember, but they don't know how to process the information because they feel like they just came out of a bad dream. Charles tells them all, " . . the Phoenix is an agent of change . . driven to bring about a rebirth, literal or not, to this world. We're going to help her, my X-Men. We're going to change the world." Like I said, I really enjoyed the final chapter of this story. I like the way it all played out. Also, this issue, permanent or not, we get a new artist. Harvey Tolibao does the artwork for this issue. I've never heard of the guy before, but I gotta say . . it's fantastic. Some of the scenes on the first couple of pages, with Phoenix and Apocalypse going at it . . are breathtaking. Whomever this guy is, he's an incredible talent. They really need to hang on to him. But me? I'm just glad this book is finally coming around and keeping my interest. Thank you!

Ultimate Human #4 - Marvel

I read through this book rather quickly. The first time . . I didn't really like the way it ended. So I read it again. It's not clean, but . . really, it ended the only way it could have. The Hulk got away. The Leader is dead. We think. And Tony is none the worse for wear. Other than having his Ironworks facility destroyed, and 1 or 2 Iron Man outfits . . maybe 3 or 4 billion dollars. But other than that . . he gets to walk away. Last issue the Leader captured Tony and Bruce right after Bruce's rampage and Tony's laser shot into his brain to calm him down. That's when the leader swooped in and captured them both. Tony's been trying to call to his suits, but either somethings blocking him, or he's just to far away. His only option . . shut down the nanobots that he injected into Bruce's bloodstream. The problem is . . once he Hulk's up, his body will adapt and they'll never be able to use that system again. Which means Bruce will be stuck being the Hulk. But did you really think that it would end any other way? Warren Ellis brought some really cool ideas to this series. But that's why it's the Ultimate Universe. Things are allowed to be changed and adapted a bit. I think Warren made good use of this freedom. I also really enjoyed Cary Nord's artwork. It wasn't fancy, or overdone. It was just perfect for this series. The first couple of pages when Tony's going over the options with Bruce, you can really see the desperation and fear in his eyes. I'm not a huge Hulk fan, but I really enjoyed this series. Thanks for the fun.

Noble Causes #33 - Image

Whodathunkit? After waiting almost 8 months between issues #31 and #32, we get issue #33 about 3 weeks later. That's fantastic. Before I get in to the book, I'd like to point out 2 things in the back that I really liked. First, for lack of a letters page, Jay goes through and comments on all of his creators. I think that's fantastic. We always give credit to the writer and artist, but not very often do the inker, colorist or letterer get their deserved accolades. I give Jay incredible respect for taking the time to do that. Secondly, he starting a new feature, I'm sure it's on his web page, where he's going to be talking about the things that influenced him. Comics, media, movies, TV . . whatever. This issue he talks about the impact that New Teen Titans #25 had on him. I like hearing about what's been influential to others, especially when it's something that I liked just as much. If you have the chance, pick it up and read it. Or check out his website at www.jayfaerber.com. I'm sure you'll find lots there to read. Last issue Surge brought his new girl-friend, Amy, to Noble Island. We find out at the end that she's actually working for Crucible. He sends her there to cause some chaos, but after Frost reneges on his agreement with Crucible, he informs Amy that her new priority is to take out Frost. She doesn't go about it the way you think. What she does is go in to Frost's room, and when Surge comes in she acts like he's attacking her. There's a big fight between Surge and Frost. Then Amy fire's some kind of weapon at him that leaves him lying on the ground, in a puddle, looking like he's been dehydrated . . like beef jerky or something. Needless to say . . the story is to be continued. This is a great series. I love everything that Jay's done with it so far, and I'm sure that it'll continue in to greatness. Get it . . if you aren't!

Green Lantern #30 - DC

With all the stuff that's been coming out lately . . 1 per 10 books, 1 per 25, so on and so on, it just seems like there's been a plethora of variant covers. Some are good . . some are just ok. There's been a few that I actually liked the regular cover better than the variant. And for the most part I think I've been pretty good about what I pick up. I don't just buy to buy, I'm picky about what I'm paying extra for. Last Wednesday I did pay $25 for the Batman variant, but . . it's the start of the RIP storyline. Anyways, the point of all this is, when this book came out, I was asking my guy about variants and he showed me a copy of this one. I said "I don't get it?" What had happened was he received 2 copies of this book that just didn't have covers at all. The cover was the title page of the book. He told me he'd sell me one for $10, but I passed. I appreciate the variants. And I especially like them when they have a cover by, say . . Neal Adams. But I can't see buying a book just because it has a printing error. To my guys credit, I think he was just joking. But I know there's people out there that actually would try to sell that stuff. Anyways, time to get off of my soapbox. This was a fantastic issue. Geoff Johns is doing an incredible job with this Secret Origin story-line. When I first heard about it, I thought "How many time can we redo this guys origin?", but this one . . is completely different. This one covers everything leading up to Hal Jordan becoming Green Lantern. We even get to see the final mission that Abin Sur was on before he died when he crash landed on Earth. How come nobody else ever asked why Abin Sur was in a spacecraft when he was a Green Lantern and could fly through space under his ring's propulsion? Well . . that question is answered here. And even back then, Abin Sur was trying to figure out the mysteries of "Blackest Night". We get to see Tom and Carol again, and a Hector Hammond that . . well . . I can't say that we've ever seen him like this before. Ivan Reis is a force to be reckoned with. He is an incredible talent and I hope he never leaves this book. His stuff is perfect. There's a panel in here with Carol walking through the door in a mauve dress . . trying to look business-like, and . . she is HOT! If you haven't been picking up this book, now is the perfect time. Just start with last issue . . and you're golden. You won't regret it. Between story and art . . this is almost the perfect book. Smokin'!!

Ex-Machina #36 - WildStorm

This is a fantastic series. I think Brian K Vaughan and Tony Harris have consistently put out a gem of a book here. I like the way Brian plays with the time-line all the time. We start out this story back in 2001, when Mayor Hundred was the Great Machine. But then we go back to 2004 when he's the Mayor and dealing with all the problems of the world's greatest city. My only question is, how come none of the stories ever take place in the present. I don't think we've ever done a story past 2004. I'm not sure what the signifigance of that is. But Brian is very specific with his time-lines. A couple of things he's dealing with this issue. First, Kremlin is trying to bring down the Mayor from the inside. He's got January's sister working as the Mayor's aide, and is having her gather information on her boss. Secondly, the Mayor is trying to get people to trust the city where the attacks happened, by showing them that they can feel safe. To further that, he's gotten President Bush to hold the GOP convention there. He's worried about people thinking that he supports one candidate or another, but he knows how much faith such an event would bring back to the city. Especially if it goes off without a hitch. Just then, someone rides a bike up to the top of the south tower . . in this world, that one was left standing . . and base-jumps off the top. The act, in and of itself, isn't the problem. But on the top or her chute she's got painted . . "Bush Sucks Cock", and she's flying an American flag. This is one of those comics where the conversations between the characters is just as important as the actions that are taking place on the page. Sometimes more. This is a very cerebral comic, and I love the way it makes you think after you read it. If you don't pick this one up, you should. Or at least pick up a TPB, or 2, and check out some of the stories. You won't regret it.

JSA Classified #37 - DC

This issue was ok. I haven't really been thrilled with this story over-all. I don't know why. I can't really pinpoint the problem. It's just . . not very exciting to me. It's a story that just seems to me like it doesn't really make that much of a difference. B Clay Moore writes it, and Ramon Perez does the art. Basically, over the last couple of issues, Wildcat has found out that someone is using his old Gyms go train hired thugs, or mercs. They train them and then farm them out to the highest bidder. Ted doesn't really have anything to do with the Gyms anymore, but it bothers him that something that he started for such altruistic reasons is being sullied. All of this is happening in Gotham, but surprisingly he doesn't run in to the Batman. He does however garner the help of Selina, Catwoman. This part of the story I love. I love when these two work together. They make a great team, and they play off of each other very well. The two of them together make pretty short work of the ring-leader and his gang of graduates. And Ted has time to contemplate his role in the world. I think he's kind of felt out of touch lately, with all of the work he's been doing with the JSA. So getting out here in the alleys, and beating up a few common street thugs, has done alot for his self-esteem and self-purpose. Overall I thought it was a decent story, it was just a little boring.

Legion of Super-heroes #41 - DC

I think Jim Shooter is doing a fantastic job with this book. His stories are fantastic, and I love what he's doing with each and every on of these characters. He is obviously somebody who loves this team and know them inside and out. That being said . . I'm wondering how the Crisis special, Legion of Three Worlds, is going to affect this title. I would assume that Jim and Geoff Johns have discussed the future of the Legion and how that story will affect this. But I guess we'll have to wait and see. Aaron Lopresti fills in for Francis Manapul this issue on the art. I really like the feel that Francis has been bringing to this series, but, I gotta say, you can't really complain about someone like Aaron doing a fill-in. He's a great artist and he draws some fantastic characters. The Legion stories, lately, have seemed a bit hectic and convoluted, but . . I think that's to get us to feel what the Legion is feeling right now with the UP breathing down their throats, and overwhelming them in a pile of paper-work and red-tape. However, this issue, Saturn Girl's mother fills her in on what's really going on in the government. But more on that next issue. Also while the government has been keeping them busy, they've put together their own super-squad. They're calling it the United Planet's Young Heroes, UPYH, for short. They consist of, from what we know, the Legion wannabes who tried out an issue or 2 ago. Remember? They were the ones the UP were trying to shove down their throats. Also this issue, Brainy and Lightning Lad overstep their authority and send Invisible Kid in to the operating theatre where they are dissecting one of the alien destroyers that they fought last issue. That's where the UPYH come in to play, because they're serving as security and they capture our young voyeur. However, as is the usually the case, just as the team is starting to figure something out, or get a whiff of some conspiracy, they are asked to go off-world and take care of some Earth-shattering event. This time they're off to Rimbor to stop some alien attack. Ultra Boy is really riled up about it because that's his home-world. To top everything off, one of the kids who works in the infirmary has gotten ahold of a Legion flight-ring and is trying to sell the tech to Intergalacticorp, and it's CEO Caulfield Zander. Which is why, in the back of the book, they give us a 3 page extra on the history of the flight rings. I love the Legion, and I think this book is getting better and better all the time. Jim Shooter is the perfect writer for this series, and he's just going to take them to greater heights. Long live the Legion!

Blue Beetle #26 - DC

Of the 26 issues of this book, I'd have to say that this one was my least favorite so far. It wasn't because of the Spanish thing . . specifically. It was actually more of the way that I had to read the book. If you don't know, this issue was billed as an all Spanish issue. Blue Beetle, Jamie Reyes, is after-all of Spanish origin. Which is fine. The premise is that he's taking Traci, his new girlfriend, to their family reunion to meet his relatives. However on the Leal side of his family . . no one speaks English. Rather than subtitle everything, they just went with the flow of any other family talking and catching up. But, since they're Spanish, everything's in Spanish. I get that. But, then in the back of the book, they have each page broke down by the word balloons and everything translated for us. Which is good, because while I know a little Spanish, I don't know enough for all the conversations. The problem I had though is that I had to look at the page, and then flip back and read the word balloons. And then look at the pictures again to fit the conversations with the pictures I already looked at. It was just . . disrupting. Like I said, I get what they were trying to do. It was a neat concept. However I think the execution didn't favor a smooth reading experience. You know what I mean? Anyways, Jamie introduces Traci to the family. He finds out that his Grandma knows his secret, and that the whole family stands behind him. "The last thing you need to worry about is whether or not your family supports you, Jaime. We love you and trust you and know you're doing what's right for all of us and all of El Paso." He ends up fighting, and beating, the Parasite. He attacked the Posse and took all of their powers, and then he was going to come after Jaime. That is until Jamie came to him. Next issue Will Pfeifer comes on board as the scripter. I don't know if it's a permanent thing, but it looks like it's at least for the next couple of issues. I really like this book, and this character. I think it's come a long way since it first started.

Teen Titans - Year 1 #4 - DC

I think this is a fantastic mini-series. Much like the X-Men: First Class book, this book shows our teens back when they were carefree and full of hope. Well . . I guess it's kind of hard to imagine Robin ever being carefree. But, I think that's part of the reason why Dick Grayson didn't stay in the role of Robin. His spirit was different from that of Bruce Wayne's. Yes he's a very talented individual, and arguably the best Robin, but . . he wasn't as dark as the Dark Knight. Anyways, Wally is just a goof. It's amazing how much the young Wally reminds us of the young Bart. They were both so impulsive and impetuous. Donna is just star-struck. This was some of her first adventures into "man's world", and I think she was just overwhelmed by all the sensory input. And Garth . . Garth is literally a "fish out of water". The first couple of issues showed how these teen's friendship matured into them forming the group. They knew each other, and they worked well together. What more could you ask for in a team-mate than someone who knows exactly how you're going to react in any given situation? The team-work factor is built in. Now they're going to announce themselves to the world. But some bad-guy . . Ant-man, or Bug-man or something, he just some guy dressed in a giant ant costume . . decides that he's going to try to make the team look bad in front of such a large audience. Which he does, for the most part. But then Robin comes in and makes pretty short work of him. But then there's a little conflict between Wally and Dick, because, I think, Wally thought he was going to be the leader. But I'm sure we'll see more of this in the next 2 issues. I think Amy Wolfram is doing a fantastic job with this series and these characters. And I really like the feel that Karl Kerschl has given this series with his unique style of art. I would have to say, easily, that this is the best Year 1 mini-series so far. I think it's a great concept.

the New Avengers #40 - Marvel

This issue basically gives us the complete back-story, from the Skrull's point of view, about how and why they've decided to declare war on Earth. It's brought to us by Brian Bendis and Jim Cheung. Of course the story is incredible. Did you expect anything less of Brian? Now Jim's art? Ok, I know I've criticized his work in the past. Sometimes, I think, that all of his character faces look to much alike. And they always have the same expression. However, I have to admit, I thought he did a fantastic job with this issue. Maybe it's because the Skrull faces are different. I'm not sure. But some of the panels and layouts in this issue, I thought, were incredible. His take on the Skrull home-world, and it's inhabitants, looked great. So I apologize for any negative comments, Jim . . I thought this issue was fantastic. It also sports a great pained cover by Aleksi Briclot. In the story we go all the way back to the beginning. It starts right after the visit by the Illuminati where they warn the Skrulls that the Earth is off limits. However, the mistake they made was that they allowed themselves to get captured for a short period of time. The Skrulls took advantage of that and gathered a great many tissue samples from them all. That's when King Dorrek decided to start the program where they would learn how to copy and mimic these terrestrial interlopers. At the time though, not everyone agreed with his leadership. Princess Veranke made her objections know and was therefore ostracized to one of the other Skrull world's. But, that worked in her favor because, years later, Galactus came along and destroyed the Skrull Throneworld. This is when the Princess, now the Queen, took the program a step farther. "With our new genetic enhancements, once a Skrull spy has infiltrated the human people . . as long as the shape this Skrull has chosen is maintained in its entirety . . no existing power on Earth could detect it. One would have to become that human mentally and physically. Any change could signal detection from one such as, let's say Tony Stark." They even go as far as to show us Warrior Siri. She's the one who's infiltrated the longest as Elektra Natchios. We also see that the Queen herself has decided to immerse herself in the program. "I will be among those on Earth infiltration assignment. I will lead this initiative. I will go where I am needed. And I am needed on Earth to prepare us for that which is written." She asks her advisers to choose a position where she can do the most damage. It looks like she's here as . . . . Jessica Drew . . Spider-Woman. That really throws a kink into things . . from our point of view. It looks like the fun is just beginning. What a great issue. It really opens up the doors for where they're going from here.

Avengers - the Initiative #12 - Marvel

This issue wraps up the first year of the Initiative. It's supposed to be a joyous event, as some of the heroes that have been training will be graduating and getting their state-by-state assignments. But, after last issue, when the MVP clone picked up the Tactigon, everything has changed. First MVP, now KIA, went on a rampage that ended up at the home of the original MVP. He was finally taken down, but not before MVP's dad found out that they had been cloning his son. What he doesn't realize though, is that his son is actually dead. The boy that he thinks is his son, is the first clone. Also, recently, Justice and the rest of the New Warriors have decided to separate themselves from the Initiative. "I'm a licensed hero. We're all registered and trained. I'm not talking about breaking laws . . but we need autonomy." And KIA's attack on camp Hammond has left everybody in a somber mood as they grieve for the wounded, and mourn the dead. However, one of the deceased, Trauma, has somehow come back to life. But that's a mystery for another day. On a better note though, there is a hearing being held. It's lead by Tony Stark, with Ms. Marvel, Valerie Cooper and Senator Woodman officiating. They're looking in to all of the recent events that have happened in or around the Initiative program. Everybody seems pretty cooperative, except Henry Gyrich. Which is why the good news that comes out of it is that Henry is leaving the program. Also Tony has stated that he will take a more active role. The Graduates include Cloud Nine, Hardball, Komodo, Triathalon, Thor Girl, Trauma and I think Ultragirl. I like this series. I think that Dan Slott and Christos Gage are doing a great job with the stories. They've really gotten us in to the heads of these kids, and are great at writing the various aspects of the social dynamics within this group. We've come to care about them. The sad part is that some of our favorites will be leaving. But, the way they're doing it, a good number of characters will be staying, while I assume we'll be getting a new class of cadets. So even though there will be new faces, there's still a lot of familiar ones. Steve Yu was the artist. It was ok. It think his style actually suits this book very well. However, personally, it's not one of my favorites. It almost has a bit of a manga style to it. At the beginning I was afraid that this title would end up being a maxi-series or something, but, thankfully . . it looks like there's a lot more stories to tell.

Action Comics #864 - DC

First of all . . cool cover by Kevin Maquire. I haven't seen any of his stuff in so long, it's great to see him featured again. There's only 1 negative thing about reading a title written by Geoff Johns. And that's that the next book I read . . is going to pale in comparison. Geoff just handles his characters so expertly . . the conversations are so real . . it's hard to go back to "comic-book banter" after reading one of his books. But, he can't write everything, so . . we'll just have to fill in some of the blanks on the other stuff. I'm glad the Legion is still around though. After the last story-line, in which Superman had to go to the future to help save the Universe, by showing the people that his legends were real . . I thought we wouldn't see them in this book for a while. But then I forgot about the Legion of Three Worlds story-line coming up, in which Superman plays a major role. This issue is leading directly in to that. I really can't wait. Batman is actually the first one to bring up the fact that he's met 3 different Legions over the years. I think Superman thinks that he's just met the same Legion, but from 3 different time periods. However, I don't think the explanation is going to be that simple. Plus, the the Time Trapper is involved, and nothings ever easy with him. Like I said, this issue is setting up the Legion Crisis story. As were reading through it, we're getting dialogue from the Time Trapper, and he talking about how he's never been able to successfully separate Superman and the Legion. No matter how her tries, they always seem to come back together. So it appears that this story-line that's coming up, is his ultimate attempt to do just that. It's all a little confusing right now. But any story that brings the Legion more exposure is OK with me. By the way, I thought Joe Prado did a pretty decent job with the art this issue.

Teen Titans #58 - DC

Last issue we saw the introduction of the Terror Titans. They absconded with Kid Devil and the Ravager. Although, they took down most of Titan Tower to get Ravager subdued. This issue, the Disruptor goes after Miss Martian. Actually, all of this happens at the same time as the last issue, but there was so much action with the Ravager, they didn't have any more space to shows M'Gann's struggle. The Disruptor is just supposed to be keeping an eye on her, but she is a bit overzealous, so . . she thinks she can take her down by herself. Which, she probably couldn't, but M'Gann is also fighting with herself. When the future Titans came back and showed what these kids could possible become, it really rattled M'Gann. She's been fighting her inner demon ever since. Her White and Green nature are basically fighting over who's going to be in control. So when the Disruptor comes after her, she's already shaken enough that she ends up losing the battle. She wakes up in some kind of cell. She can feel a presence but can't see it. When she does, it's . . . Kid Devil. He looks severely tortured and beaten. All she can see in his eyes is rage, and it looks like he's ready to take it out on her. So now the Terror Titans have 3 of the original. I'm just wondering how long it'll be before some of the others start to show up. I like what Sean McKeever is doing with this series. He's only been on board for a short time, but already he's got the Titans in a place that could end up having some huge implications on the core group. This issues art is by Carlos Rodriguez. I'm not sure if he's coming on board, or just filling in. But I really liked his style. I hope we see more of him, but I guess we'll just have to wait and see. I'm really glad that this book is doing so well. I just hope they can keep it up.

DC Universe: Zero - DC

I've been looking forward to this book for a while now. Unfortunately, this particular issue is only a prelude. Or . . a tease, if you will. But the good news is that it gives us a little vision of almost every story-line that's going to be rocking the DC Universe this summer. And there's some really big stuff in store. First we get a little vision of Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds. Obviously it's in the future, and it looks like Superboy-prime is back. He's united all the villains against Superman and the Legion. The George Perez art looks incredible. Next we look in to the Batman RIP story-line. It'll be by the regular Batman team of Grant Morrison and Tony S Daniel. It has the Joker as one of it's leading characters, and it looks equally as impressive. Next we see how the gods are going to turn their back on Wonder Woman. It'll be brought to us by Gail Simone and Aaron Lopresti. The Green Lantern book with go through it's Blackest Night story-line. Again by the regular creative team of Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis. There's a Final Crisis: Revelations story-line, which looks like it'll be a major turning point for the Spectre . . and Crispus Allen. Also I think it'll be Phillip Tan's first DC work. And the book that'll tie everything all together will be the Final Crisis book, by Grant Morrison and JG Jones. I'm not sure, but it looks to me like the regular Justice League book is going to play a big part in all the happenings also. I hope they've used up their vacation time, because I think Geoff Johns and Grant Morrison are going to have a seriously busy summer. But I'll tell you what, if they're going to revamp the DC Universe . . it couldn't be in better hands than these two. But the really incredible part is, besides these two brilliant writers, they have some top-rated artistic talent lined up for the whole shebang. It's only May, but already I can't wait for summer to start. Let's get it on!

Spawn #177 - Image

I really like what David Hine and Brian Haberlin are doing with this book. David's stories have really explored the nuances of this new world that Spawn's created. It seems that his rule that the portals to heaven and hell being closed aren't exactly as specific as he thought. Everytime he turns around, it seems that he's getting some grief from someone who's been influenced by one or the other. And this Mammon . . or Malefik, as his mother knew him, as did Al and his brothers when they were kids . . really has it out for him. He's been causing him almost as much trouble as Malebogia did in the previous world. But the real problem is, by the end of this story, Al / Spawn feels like maybe it is time to quit. "He's right Nyx. Everything I touch turns rotten. This world doesn't need me any more. It's time for me to die." What does that mean exactly? I couldn't tell you because that's how the book ends. Aaargghh! I hate endings like that. On a positive note though, I thoroughly enjoyed Brian's pencils. I'm not sure what his inkers are doing differently, but it seems like every issue he gets closer and closer to looking like a painted style. This issue still isn't quite there . . but almost. And it still looks damn good. I also enjoy all the plot threads that have been started in the last couple of months. It's good to find out some more of Al's past. Long before he became Spawn. To me, Al's just as interesting a character as Spawn.

DC Super Friends #2 - DC

Ok, I really don't want to say anything negative, because I'm really trying to support this whole Johnny DC thing. I really like all the books. This one, I think, however is written for a much younger audience. I enjoy the Titans and Legion and Batman. But I think this one is geared more toward the 5 to 8 year old crowd. I guess this one is supposed to be more in sync with the toys. Which I haven't seen . . but I'll take their word for it. Anyways, long story short . . this one is definitely aimed at a younger audience than myself. Now my nephew, I'm sure, will love it. And that's ok. But anyone who was nostalgic, and thought they'd pick it up because of the great cartoons back in the 70's . . you're probably going to be disappointed. But don't fret to much. If you spent the money on it already, just give it to one of your kids, or niece or nephew or something. Let them enjoy it. And I'm sure they will. Take comfort from the knowledge that they're having the same experience as you did . . . way back when.

the Spirit #16 - DC

I have to be honest with you . . I almost fell asleep while reading this one. I found it to be completely boring. This one is a murder mystery, and while the answer wasn't the obvious one . . it was completely pulled out of left field. The most enjoyable part of the book . . I thought . . was Paul Smith's artwork. I really got into him back in the 80's, when he was hot, and then he did the X-Men for a little while. But, he really hasn't done anything noteworthy since then. I know I've said this the last 15 issues, but I really don't see what the appeal of this character is. Maybe because it was a different time when he was popular . . the world was in a different place. And, like I've also said, I know nostalgia is chic. But, I just don't get it. I'll probably stop getting this one pretty soon, because it seems like month after month I'm having a harder time having anything positive to say about it. I have huge props for Will Eisner. I just find this incarnation very lethargic.

Birds of Prey #117 - DC

This seems to be the beginning of the next chapter in the Bird's life. Last issue they started investigating Platinum Flats because of it's complete and utter lack of crime . . of any sort. It just wasn't natural. No gangs. No mob ties. To ties to any major crime or crime outfits at all. That is until Oracle runs across somebody who's wearing a Platinum Flats hockey jersey. That's when she decides to start sniffing around. Come to find out, there's actually a quite prominent meta-human gang running rampant through the city. But, they have some expert hackers on their side and they've used that to cover-up any trace at all of their existence. "We've always cleaned everything. Never a whiff of a crime having been committed, never a scrap of paper . . not even a memory. Our organization has thrived because as far as anyone knows, Platinum Flats doesn't have an organization." We don't know who all the players are yet, but it seems to be lead by a guy called the Visionary. Not to modest . . huh? Some of his people include Mind-Bullet, Topaz, Tuatara, Gangly Man and Diamond. Also Arthur, a kid, seems to be their resident hacker. We don't know all their powers yet, but when ManHunter comes face to face with them, and is in trouble, Misfit goes to join the fight and try to help save her. They are both in way over their heads. Eventually Oracle gets ahold of Huntress and Zindy to come release them from capture. But, it's not before Visionary does something to ManHunters mind to give her a really scary vision. They don't confront the gang any farther, because they just want to get their people home. But through the process of all of this, Babs has decided that they're going to move their base of operations to Platinum Flats. Plus, they haven't really decided yet, but I'm thinking that they're going to use some of that booty that they found with Killer Shark last issue to finance some of their operations. They can't count on Bruce all of the time. Right? Also, on the final page we see that Tabby isn't actually dead. Remember? She's the girl that disappeared in the vacuum of the device she was trying to use. That's what originally brought Oracle's attention to all of this. Anyways, Aurthur apparently has a bit of magic in him. That's what helps to make him such a good hacker I guess. Well somehow that magic has attracted Tabby from wherever she's at . . to him. We don't actually see her. A vortex appears in Arthur's room, and Tabby's image is inside of it. Very interesting. So it appears that Sean McKeever has decided to take this group in it's own direction, although we appear to be dealing with the same basic core group of characters. So far I like his take on things. It's ok to shake things up every now and then. Also Nicola Scott turns in another great art job. She seems to be the Birds of Prey artist for the foreseeable future. Which is ok with me. She has a great handle on these characters, and consistently turns in a solid performance. This continues to be one of my personal favorites.