Secret Invasion: the Amazing Spiderman #1 - Marvel

Ok, 1 more Spider-man book out this week. But honestly, this one really revolves more around Jackpot . . I almost called her Slingshot . . than necessarily Spider-man. Actually it's a Secret Invasion book, but . . we don't actually see a Skrull until the final couple of pages. Jackpot has gone to the DB to try to explain herself when the offices are attacked by . . something that looks like . . Spider-man. Jackpot puts up a noble fight, but you just knew she wasn't going to have it in her to stand up to this Super-Skrull. On the final page of the issue, it looks like he's getting ready to pound her into the floor. This mini-series is being brought to us by Brian Reed and Marco Santucci. Marco's pencils really show a lot of promise. He's one of those talents that's not quite there yet, but . . he's really close. Some of his panels in this book are really sharp looking. But then others . . are just mediocre. But that comes with experience and practice. He'll get there. He really shows a lot of promise. This should be an interesting story. But really, I bought it because it's a Spider-man book, not necessarily because it's a Secret Invasion book. I think you all know by now what I think about that. It was an interesting first issue. I guess we'll just have to wait and see if all 3 issues have the same intensity. Hopefully!

the Amazing Spider-man #569 - Marvel

Dan Slott is putting a good effort into this book. And, I'm not sure what the problem is. I don't know if it's because of the schedule, or if it's because of the switching of writers every 3 issues . . I'm not exactly sure what it is, but the stories just don't seem the same as when the title was only coming out once a month. There's little holes . . and inconsistencies. That's the best way I can think of to explain it. Like last issue . . when Peter made a comment about MJ. It was something that he shouldn't know anymore. And there's other things too. Ok . . I know . . it's a comic book. By definition . . it's a stretch of the imagination. But, this is more than that. In comics there's always going to be the leap in logic that leaves you sitting back in confusion and asking yourself . ."Huh?" But they should be few and far between. I kind of feel like these first 12 or 15 issues were more about the introduction of new characters, both antagonists and protagonists, than necessarily about the story. I mean think about it. In the last 6 or so months we really haven't made any headway in Peters life, or with his problems. However, while I'm saying this, I realize that now we're onto a new story-arc. It's a story that seems to involve more of Peter's life . . and problems. And, with John Romita Jr. doing the pencils . . the book has a feel that it's had before . . nostalgia, if you will. Now don't get me wrong . . I love this book . . and I love this character. I just don't think the book is at the level that it's been at in the past. Oh yeah, and most of this particular issue revolved around Venom, Eddie Brock and another new character . . . Anti-Venom. Really . . you have to see it to believe it. All I'm asking is, "Please! Get this book back on track." Please quit trying to do the quick stories that have no substance.

Ultimate Spider-man #125 - Marvel

I really think that Brian Bendis has an affinity for this character . . . well, maybe it's just for this book. This title did, after all, begin the expansion universe of the Ultimate heroes. And, all the books in it have been fantastic. But this book, and Brian's efforts, have really been at the forefront of this character . . and this series . . and this expansion of the Marvel Universe. His is the mind that's been the driving force behind this evolution. When you read his stories, you can just tell how much he loves this character. I mean, yes he does a good job over in the Avengers books also, but . . I really think he has a special place for this one. It just seems like there's so many more ideas that are presented in this title. When you step back and look at it . . the whole series as one large tome . . he really hasn't changed all that much about Peter Parker or Spider-man. That is of course, other than putting these stories into his teen-age years. No, I really think that Brian's strength lies in getting the reader to look at things from a different perspective. Honestly, he didn't reinvent the wheel here. But, he has made things more interesting by giving us new ways of looking at things. In the beginning of this story, after Venom has beaten Peter up pretty badly . . and Sable has sped away from the scene with Venom . . you think that Spider-man is on the verge of finally getting arrested. He's not putting up much of a fight. But, we find out that actually . . he's stalling. He's trying to give his body a couple of minutes to strengthen itself and recover. So rather than get into another fight, or use up energy swinging away from a spray of bullets . . he chooses a display of weakness and humility to force the police to underestimate his recuperative powers. I think that's very smartly played, and very deftly written. But Brian didn't do all this alone. Mark Bagley gave this book a distinct style and feel. Which is why, when he left the book, I was concerned about it's future. However, with Stuart Immonen now doing the pencils . . I realize I worried needlessly. Yes the feel is a bit different. But . . honestly . . the artwork is better. So in my eyes this book has really just moved to the next level. This is a fantastic character, in a superbly written and drawn book. And if you're not reading it . . . you should. I haven't been disappointed by a single issue yet.

Ultimate X-Men #97 - Marvel

A lot of startling discoveries are thrust upon us this issue. We find out some more about this Banshee drugs that's hit the streets lately. Basically it's a mutant DNA hormone that temporarily gives mutant powers to anyone that takes it. But it takes a pretty hefty toll on the body of the participant. Also, mutants are taking it because it makes them essentially . . gods. It doesn't last forever, but it is very addictive. We found earlier in this story-arc that the Canadian super-team . . Alpha Flight . . were all on the cocktail in some form or another. That's why, when Peter put his team together to find out where this stuff was coming from . . that's the first place they went. But in order to stand up to them, they all had to take it also. It seems like the biggest one tweaking off of it is Scott. Anyways, long story short, Wolverine put some of the pieces together. It seems like the original research was done by Charles and Moira. Charles found a way to manipulate Logan's DNA, but . . he says . . he quickly abandoned the research. However, Moira couldn't let it go. She says that she was doing it for mutant-kind . . to make the world safer for them, but really, she was in league with Magneto. After Logan blows up the island, and all the Banshee, Quicksilver comes to pay Moira a visit. "This is very . . . disappointing. My father has a new plan on how to deal with these . . humans." I'm enjoying Aron E Coleite's stories on this title lately. They're a far cry from the last couple of story-arcs. And I much prefer Mark Brooks' pencils. I really was about to give up on this book. But it really seems like it's improving . . as it gets closer to this Ultimatum story-line. I just can't wait to see what they have in store for the Ultimate Universe with this one. Remember . . that's why I like this concept . . anything goes!

New Exiles #10 - Marvel

This issue finally wraps up the current story-line. More or less. Psylocke has broken free from the influence of Ogun . . who was actually getting her incredible power under his influence so that he could help the French. Meanwhile, After attempting to reprogram Sage, Purge finds out that she's not that easy to take down. Especially considering that she has an entire other personality living inside her head. They have a pretty heated battle, but Sage is still trying to hang on to her soul so she makes it pretty rough on both of them. And Rogue's team, with the help of Emma Frost's Force-X, actually do quite a bit of damage to the French Armada. Something interesting happens during the battle though. One of the 'werewolf' type creatures attacks Rogue and rips her sleeve. When that happens we see this intricate tattoo that she has all up and down her arm. But it seems like she doesn't want anyone to know that it's there, let alone what it is or why. So I think that's something that's going to pop up in the future when Chris starts putting together her story, and the planet she came from. It's all a mystery right now. But not as much a mystery as Cat's origins. So, more or less, this pretty much wraps up this story-line. And our team came out on top again . . without any losses. But, they still don't know what Cat's discovered back at the Crystal Palace . . the Omniverse is slowly dying. I've said this before, but I think Chris Claremont is the perfect writer for this story. We all know how good he is at the team books, and he seems to have a real passion for this one. I also thoroughly enjoy Tom Grummett's artwork every issue. This book has continued to be everything that I hoped it would be.

X-Men Legacy #215 - Marvel

There's a lot of retrospect that goes on in this series. Charles is perusing the remains of the school, and mansion, and thinking about how this whole thing started. Rogue is basically doing the same thing, but at the X-Men's one-time base in Australia. Even the Hellfire Club is thinking about the past as they look towards the future and what it holds in store for them. Also, Sebastian still hasn't told them about his new companion, the female Sinister. However, as Charles thinks about his students, he decides that he should confront Scott and try to talk to him. Of course in Charles case, that involves a mental nudge to get Scott to show up wherever Charles is at. I'm starting to think he does that a lot more than any of them ever realized. But I like how it ends. Scott turns the tables on his old mentor. As the Professor tries to walk away, Scott stops him . ."Professor . . . I'm afraid it's not going to be nearly that easy. Not after what you just told me. Think about it. You say you made mind-contact with Sinister, after he was dead. You don't throw out a remark like that and then just walk away. I didn't come here alone. Someone else has visiting rights inside my head these days. Someone who'd spot a thought that didn't belong there and know it for what it was. So strap your self in, Professor. You're about to get a taste of your own medicine." Mike Carey does a fantastic job with team books. And he's really exceeding himself on this title. I really like the intricacy of the stories that he's been weaving here. I like how he's tying all of the X-Men past, present and future together. And with Scot Eaton on the pencils, I really like the direction that this book is heading right now. I also enjoy how closely they're trying to tie this title with the Astonishing book. That didn't happen with Joss' stories, but it seems to be more and more prevalent every month. Did you ever think that the X-Men would have 3 main titles that were all this strong? Fan-frikkin-tastic!!

Wolverine #68 - Marvel

This book is really blowing me away right now. But then . . did you expect anything less when you heard that Mark Millar and Steve McNiven would be doing this story arc? But, whatever my expectations were . . these guys have multiplied that. There are so many nuances about this story . . I absolutely love it. Like when Hawkeye and Logan come upon Clint's ex-wife's place. Her companion now is . . one of the Ultron units? I don't thing they're romantically entangled . . could they(?) . . but, he(?) does seem to be her best friend, or confidant, or something. I there such a thing as a robo-hag? Also the Ultron actually seems to express some feelings when it gives Logan the 'X' medallion. " For luck, sir." Then when the boys show up in Salt Lake City. They have to break Clint's daughter out of the Kingpin's custody. It seems she's a super . . having Peter Parker for a grand-parent will probably do that for you . . and the Kingpin wants to make an example out of her. As soon as the boys break her out, she grabs a lead pipe and bashes the Kingpin's brains in and then turns on her dad. "I'm doing what I came here to do . . seize control of the Kingpin's quarter. I killed the Kingpin like I killed Magneto. Now it's time to show these boys what their new boss is made of." . . and it looks like she's about to smash her old-man's head in. Logan's watching from behind the wheel of the 'Spider-car'. "Damn you to hell for making me do this, Hawkeye." He may be going off the wagon on that abstinence code that he adopted. Oh . . uh . . I'm sorry . . I meant the non-violence code. No aggressive acts from this man. Yeah . . right! You knew it was only a matter of time. The only question was, what was the contributing factor going to be? You just had to know this story-arc was going to be fantastic. But what the boys have produced here is so far beyond my expectations . . it's amazing. I even bought the second printing for these first 3. I don't ever do that. If you're not getting it . . you should. It's destined to be a classic.

Avengers: the Initiative #16 - Marvel

This issue, 3-D man hooks up with Ryder an Riot . . the Skrull Kill Krew. If it sounds ominous, it's because it is. These guys aren't playing around. Ryder kills them, and then Riot rips them into little pieces. It's kind of gruesome, really. And now, with the addition of the 3-D man, they have a fool-proof radar system. "I pity the fool" that crosses these guys path. But there's still a lot of stuff going on back with the Initiative at Camp Hammond. It appear that there's a lot more Skrulls there than we ever imagined. They've decided to make it their base of operations. Then, in New York City . . where it appears that a full-scale invasion is taking place . . Nick Fury has show up with his hand-picked group of Skrull fighters. I thought it was also kind of interesting that Ryder and Riot got their powers, and, I guess, this unquestionable hatred for the Skrulls from the ones that Reed hid way back when. Remember when he had the group of Skrulls he didn't know what to do with? And then he made them turn in to cows and hid them in the mid-west? Well, eventually those cows ended up in the food system and people actually ate them. I guess it affected the people that actually partook differently . . and for different lengths of time. But, Ryder and Riot were 2 of the ones that were permanently affected. Riot is stuck in this crazy alien/gargoyle type figure. I can't believe I'm saying this, but, right now . . out of the 3 different Avenger books . . I'd have to say that this is my favorite of the 3. I think I just like the vast variety of characters that this book offers. Plus I think that Dan Slott and Christos Gage are really doing a great job with this book. Also, at first, I thought that Stefano Caselli's artwork was just . . ok. But I gotta say, as this book goes along, his style is really growing on me. I think this guys got a pretty bright future ahead of him. Overall, I thought it was a good book.

the New Avengers #44 - Marvel

I thought this was another interesting issue, but . . of course it's all Secret Invasion. This one shows how the Skrulls came up with the plan . . or I should say idea, for a new way to infiltrate the human race. After the whole humiliation for them with the Illuminati, they put some of their soldiers in their place to see if they could provide some insight for themselves . . I guess. However, as is the case with the 'real' Reed Richards . . his brain is always working. During one of the sessions the group starts to talk about how they would detect the Skrulls if they decided to launch an invasion. To which Reed respond that he would have to look into all of the various ways that they could impersonate us so that he would have a way to detect them in any possible scenario. This process of thinking eventually came around to the point where he came up with the idea of how they could adapt themselves to become undetectable. Unfortunately, before he could finish that thought, as with many of the other sessions, the dupes realize that they don't actually have the Illuminati's powers and start to question what's really going on. That's when one of the Super-Skrulls have to come in and take out the participants once they've gone past the threshold. But then . . all they have to do is make another one. The try to torture the concept out of him, but 'Reed' isn't budging. So they decide to take a more 'natural' course . . they put Reed, Sue and Franklin into a 'home' situation. It's supposed to simulate a lazy early morning where Franklin comes in to talk to his dad. Eventually the conversation leads to them talking about hypothetical things . . to which Franklin steers the conversation towards Reeds idea. They just listen while Reed spills everything to Franklin. It's really quite ingenious. This is another issue that I could take or leave. I thought it was interesting that the Skulls 'master plan' actually came from a 'human' mind. So I guess you could say that the Illuminati were the masters of their own destruction. But, again, since I'm not following this storyline . . I could take it or leave it. I did however like Billy Tan's pencils. I thought they were pretty good.

the Mighty Avengers #17 - Marvel

It appears that Marvel either had a screw-up in their postings or . . they just changed their minds on this book. It's advertised as a special story about Mar-vell, but . . it ends up being a story about Henry Pym. Actually, not even the real one . . the Skrull imposter. I think what Brian Bendis is trying to show us is the inherent weakness' in the Skrulls plans. The problem arises that the people that they're impersonating are heroes. They live, breathe and drink it . . 24/7 . . 8 days a week. So when they assume one of these characters lives and personalities . . they become completely immersed in who they're supposed to be. The problem therefore arises that in order to 'become' their target, and immerse themselves completely into their established lives . . they have to think like them . . they have to make the same choices they would make . . they associate with their friends and family . . they have to adopt their morals and constitution. That being said, it's only a matter of time until they start to question their purpose . . their goals . . their ultimate plan. That's what's happened here with Dr. Pym. And, apparently, it's not the first time. Dum Dum Dugan has to try to make him see the error of his ways, or . . take him out. Which is what he ends up doing in this case. And then, we're back to the Skrull home-world, where they're already working on making a new one. It was an interesting story. The only thing I didn't quite understand was right at the end where there's this scene with Henry and Tigra. I assume this is one of the Skrulls. But it's not really clear. And then . . SHIELD agents come to get him at Janet's request. Khoi Pham did a pretty decent job with the art on this issue. It was . . . ok. I appreciate the story . . or message, that Brian was trying to get across, but . . I'm not really following the whole Secret Invasion thing so . . . I could take or leave this issue.

Jack of Fables #25 - Vertigo

This issue focus' mainly on the Page sisters. And most specifically on Robin. Why? Because she's fallen in love with Jack . . she thinks . . and foregone her duties as head of security at the Golden Boughs. I don't think Jack's intention was to pull her away from her duties. I think he just sees her as another conquest. Plus, he wants to say he slept with all of the Page sisters. But, her absence is causing a huge problem because the Bookburner is on his way there right now. He's got many Fables, and Hillary Page is his posse, but . . with the help of Humpty Dumpty . . she gets away to call Hillary and warn her of their crusade. The problem is, if Bookburner gets to the Golden Boughs, he will erase every fable, and all the administration from existence. So now she has to find a way to get Jack to help her out. She has to convince him to fight the good fight, and help defend the place that he continues to treat as a revolving door. He obviously has very little respect for the hierarchy of the Fables, and their community. This issue is filled with the usual wackiness and wry humor of the Bill Willingham and Matthew Sturges stories that have graced this book since it's inception. It's a bit . . out there. The art this issue is brought to us by Russ Braun. It's not a whole lot different than the usual art in this title, but . . there are a few panels that look really nice. But it's supposed to be 'cartoony'. That's the overall theme of the book. Right? I like this title. It's a nice diversion from the regular super-hero fare. Plus . . it's just crazy. And, I can't complain about those Brian Bolland covers. Fantastic!

Madame Xanadu #3 - Vertigo

I'm enjoying this book a lot more than I thought I would. I knew Matt Wagner was an incredible talent, so the stories would pull me in. But, I never expected the talent of Amy Reeder Hadley to be such a draw. I really like her style a lot. It's simple yet very detailed. I think the art, combined with the colors, create a fantastic mood for the book. Nimue, or as the Phantom Stranger calls her . . Madame Xanadu . . for the last 10 to 15 years, has been living in the summer palace, Xanadu, of Kublai Khan. She serves as his favored sooth-sayer. Then one day the Khan is visited by the Polo brothers, on an expedition from Europe. Khan saw them as an opportunity to form a line of communication and peace between himself and their leader of their Christian faith . . the pope. Now, several years later, the Polo brothers are once again returning, but this time the Phantom Stranger is riding along as a companion. Nimue doesn't know why, but she warns the Khan to be wary of the rider wearing the large gold medallion. All of this is happening as there is some treachery and treason beginning to bear it's head in Kahn's court. The perpetrators see it as a chance to blame it on the Western explorers. I think it's neat that Nimue is popping up during these important times in history. The first story arc takes place in the time of Camelot, and now she's bearing witness to the great opulence of Khan's rein. I assume, that until she arrives in the present time, she'll probably be present at a few more important points in history. She seems to be an agent of change, or at least a catalyst. She's going to have an awful lot of knowledge, and experience, by the time she reaches the present. Right now though, I'm enjoying her tale.

WildCATS - World's End #2 - WildStorm

They've been talking, the last couple of issue, about how Majestic has gone crazy. This issue, he starts out by attacking the Halo Building, but then, after Charis puts a sword through him, he tries the diplomatic approach. I don't know that he's necessarily insane . . but, he is driven. He's goes on about his story . . he was near Hawaii went everything started going loopy. He ended up defending the islands when a gaggle of, what he considered insane 'supers' . . heroes and villains alike . . tried to attack the island. The locals were so happy that he was able to save them the same fate as the rest of the world, they made him the king of the islands. He saw it as the chance to shape the society that would inherit the Earth. He wants to combine the best of Earth, and the best of Khera, which he thinks will " . . one day herald a new golden age for mankind." Right now he doesn't care much about the rest of the world, he's going to focus his attention on the little corner of it where he feels he can make the most impact. If you want to call that insane . . then I guess he is. Basically, this whole issue is spent sorting out this whole thing with Majestic. Really the only thing that happens with the WildCATS, or even at Halo, is that Majestic takes a plane-load of the survivors back to the islands with him. This story was brought to us by Christos Gage and Neil Googe. In the back-up, we're seeing the Wetworks team as they fight for the independence of Europe. Eastern Europe belongs to the Vampires and the night tribes. Wetworks is leading the resistance in the rest of Europe . . the sunlit zones . . battling to liberate what remains of humanity. They appear to have won . . at least this part of the conflict, but Dane is contacted by Lynch . . about that whole trouble with Tao . . he wants to put Team7 back together. This part of the story is brought to us by Christos Gage and Brandon Badeaux. Overall I enjoyed the book, but I would've liked to have seen some more about WildCATS and Halo, in the first story, rather than spending the whole thing concentrating on Majestic. I know it was a necessary story, but I think we could've covered other areas also. I enjoy Christos' stories, but I think this is one of his weakness' . . having multiple story-lines going in the same book. He gets alot of information across in his tales, but it tends to usually be very singly focused. Although I'm sure he'll get better as he gets more experience under his belt. I'm really looking forward to this book, and . . if that's the worst complaint I have . . that's not to bad.

Secret History of the Authority: Hawksmoor #6 - WildStorm

I have to say, the only thing I didn't really like about this book was the Cully Hamner covers. I don't know . . they just didn't seem right on this book. Anyways, this issue wraps up the mini-series that's been brought to us by Mike Costa and Fiona Staples. I thought Mike did a good job with this story. I expected it to be an origin story, or maybe a 'year 1' of sorts, but really it was just a story from the early years of Jack Hawksmoor. We got a sense of how he was made and what he went through to get there. We didn't get all of the details, but . . I don't think we really want to know all of the details. Plus we got a pretty good idea of how he talks, and relates, to all of these cities . . all cities actually . . whether it's a great metropolis like Tokyo or just a 2 shack little community in the Russian countryside. I think he enjoys human contact and relationships, but I really think that the cities are the only ones that really get him. We've seen Jack in action in the Authority books, but this series, I think, really helps us to understand just how it is that he is able to do the things he does . . and how he solicits the help from his mistress' around the globe. I thought Mike and Fiona put an excellent effort into this series. Your hard work paid off. Thank you!

Blue Beetle #30 - DC

I think Matthew Sturges has done a pretty decent job with this story since he's came on board. I like the way that he's handling Jamie . . and his whole cast of characters for that matter. Also he's proven to me that he can write a pretty decent story without Bill Willingham. Jamie's trying to have a personal life . . good luck with that . . and keep his other job from affecting his friends and family to much. But as he learns while on a double-date, it doesn't take to much for one to bleed over into the other. I also like how his 'relationship' with the scarab is progressing. I just hope he doesn't come to rely on it to much and can make some decisions on his own. Actually, that's what kind of leads to the end of this issue. Jamie is chasing down the 4 guys that came across the border the other day. He's really worried about them because of the drugs, or whatever, they took that gave them abilities. He's worried about the destruction they could cause in his city. Anyways, he has them confronted and they're at an electrical sub-station. They have magnetic powers, and he remembers from physics that he can use the electricity to make an electro-magnet. It should cancel their powers out. He checks with the Scarab to make sure he's not over doing it. After getting the green light, he gives it a shot. He takes them down, but then he finds out they're on the brink of death. He feels guilty for what he did, but he also knows that he listened to the Scarab. The issue ends with he, and the 4 guys, surrounded by police and ambulances. Matt does a good job of expressing Jamie's frustration and lack of experience. Also, I have to say, I'm not a big fan of Rafael Albuquerque's art, however . . I thought he did a nice job on the most recent issue of Superman/Batman. So I know he has it in him. I think he just tries to give this book a certain feel. Which I can appreciate, but . . it's not always my favorite. However, it is consistent. This book has really come a long way since it's inception. I really didn't think it was going to make it this far.

Reign in Hell #2 - DC

All I can say is . . Keith Giffen must have a chart up on one of the walls of his study because, otherwise, I don't know how he could possibly keep track of everything that he has going on in this book. The main gist of this issue is that Lilith has called back all the earthbound. There is no more dark magic on Earth. However, the mystics and familiars are not rejoicing because it's never good when the balance of power shifts that significantly. Lilith wants to use the earthbound to bolster Neron's forces. Most of this issue is spent seeing how everybody on Earth is dealing with the impending war. Basically, everybody is picking a side . . Neron's or Satanus/Blaze. Surprisingly though, they aren't all picking the same sides. Most of them are going with the side that they feel will benefit them the most . . when all is said and done. Most of them also feel that sitting on the side-lines will diminish them, when all's said and done . . they feel they must get involved . . in one way or another. The artwork of Tom Derenick and Bill Sienkiewicz is astounding. Tom's work is already very good, but Bill's influence on him is really giving us something special. The images that they're giving us of hell are . . well . . infernal! I'm really surprised that this book is this good. I really didn't expect it. The complexity of this story . . how well thought out everything is . . really awes me. I'm thinking, when this is over, this series will be the blue-print upon which this aspect of the DC Universe is drawn upon. I also think we're going to see a lot more 'magical' influence after all of this. I'm sure we'll see some characters fall, while others will gain even more power. It's all pretty interesting . . and intense.

Justice Society of America #18 - DC

First of all I'd like to say that I think Geoff Johns and Alex Ross are doing a fantastic job with this story-arc. I like the way that they're showing everyone's reaction, or feelings, about receiving Gog's gifts. He feels that he's 'fixing' them, but . . is he really? The 'gifts' haven't always brought about the enjoyment, or enlightenment that's been expected. You know the old saying . . "Be careful what you wish for. You may just get it!" Well that seems to be the theme of this book right now. My only confusion with this issue is I don't understand why most of the story is being told from Hawkman's perspective. He hasn't received the 'gift', or really been paid any particular attention to . . until this issue. But now, he seems to be filled with rage . . with little self control. And when the JSA's actions lead to the killing of Lance Corporal David Reid . . you know, the great-grandson of Roosevelt . . Gog fixes him by bringing him back to life . . and turning him into . . Magog. Hence the cover. Which really brings all of Superman's warnings to light. Meanwhile Damage is making a play for Judomaster. And on the world that Power-girl has been sent to, she's trying to figure out just where it is that she's been sent, and she's looking for help from wherever she can get it. In this case it's Professor Michael Holt. The other thing . . besides the story . . that really stands out on this story-arc is Dale Eaglesham's impressive artwork. This guy has really become a force to be reckoned with. His artwork has really been stellar, and it's come to define this series. I've always liked the JSA. But, to me, it's always played second fiddle to the JLA. I think all of that may be changing. This has easily become one of the best series DC has on the stands right now.

DC Special: Cyborg #4 - DC

What's the deal with this Mr. Orr character. He's the one that was behind Equus . . and now, obviously, all the other cybernetically enhanced beings in the DC Universe. But, apparently, he works for the government. Or so he claims. Is he being groomed to be the next Slade? He seems to be right up there with Cain or Deathstroke. It also seems as if he's been popping up more and more frequently. Vic's friend Ron showed up at Vic's ex-fiance's wedding to spoil the occasion. It seems that Sarah's new beau, Deshaun, while working on Vic at STAR labs was also stealing his tech . . claiming it was for the betterment of war casualties. But, that part is a little vague for me because Mr. Orr claims that Vic's father sold his tech, and inventions, to the government. It was part of the price he paid for saving Vic's life . . way back when. It seems that somewhere along the line, the story has been muddied . . or twisted around. Anyways, Ron is wearing a version of Vic's armor, and it looks as if next issue Mr. Orr is going to unveil Cyborg . . version 2.0. But, you also have to take into account that a lot of the upgrades that have been done to Vic over the years were his own designs, or inventions. So he may have a few things up his sleeve . . sort of . . that none of the others that have been cybernetically enhanced will have access to. I think this is an interesting story by Mark Sable. And one that should've been told a while ago. But right now, I think it's a little . . blurry. I don't think we have all the details, or the complete story yet. There seems to be a lot of variables that we, or Vic, didn't know about. Plus, I have to say I'm a little disappointed about the art. Originally this series was billed as having Ken Lashley art, but then in issue #2 . . Carlos Magno takes over. Carlos is a pretty talented guy, and a decent artist in his own right, but . . we haven't been delivered what we were expecting. I know. It's a minor complaint. But these things bother me. Overall I think this is just an average series. And you really don't know how hard it is for me to say that. It could become better, depending on how it resolves itself, but . . we have 2 more issue to wait for that. We'll see.

Legion of Super-heroes #45 - DC

Right now, I don't think this book could be in better hands than Jim Shooter's. I really like the different directions that he's taking these characters in. I mean . . he's got Saturn Girl having an affair with Ultra-boy. Whodathunkit? And, he's got this kid . . this comic-book reading kid . . M'rissey, who's single-handedly taken care of all of the Legion financial and political problems. He's definitely a whiz-kid, and he really seems to be a likeable character. I'm just wondering, ultimately, what his goals or motivations are. I mean, what brought him to the Legion in the first place? He seems wise beyond his years. So who is he really? RJ Brande, or just an RJ Brande 'wanna-be'? Anyways, I'm sure Jim will unfold his secrets in the issues to come. I think it's cool that the most interesting new character in the book is technically on the team . . but has no powers. I can't wait to see what other new characters Jim dreams up. I'm also impressed with Francis Manapul's art. It really gives this book a nice feel. Yes it's different from anyone else that's done this book, but . . so what? With the new creative direction, it also gives the book a new feel. And so far . . I like it. Yes his art isn't as crisp or 'artsy' as some others out there, but . . for these characters, and these stories set in the distant future . . I think he's a perfect fit. I'm still questioning, though, how the Legion of 3 Worlds story-line is going to impact or affect this title. Or if it will at all. Don't get me wrong, I think the more Legion stories . . the more exposure . . the better. I don't really care if they tie in at all. I just think it's a question that eventually will require an answer. For now, though, I'm just enjoying this great book.

Teen Titans - Year One #6 - DC

The more I read this series, the more I absolutely love Karl Kerschl's interpretation of these characters. I think he's done and absolutely fabulous job with the look and feel of this mini-series. Of course Amy Wolfram has also done a good job with the stories. I really like how, in this issue, the theme being presented here is that no matter what the talents or abilities of the individual characters . . the group will always stand stronger as a whole. And, ultimately, they are a family. No matter how much they bicker, or fight, or just disagree . . any of them would put any of the others above themselves should the need arise. And Robin, the most 'lone' character of them all . . still operates better in the group, and as their leader. However, no matter how strong that theme is . . or how well written Amy wrote it . . it's still Karl's art that brings it all together and conveys the feeling that Amy's trying to express with her words. I think, together, they did an incredible job with this series. We really got the feel and emotions of these characters. It was also nice seeing how they eventually congealed as a team . . a family . . rising above their individual concerns and motivations. This is why I love the Teen Titans. I think they're one of the best teams out there.

Catwoman #82 - DC

This is it. The end of an era. After 176 issues, Catwoman's solo books will cease to exist. Well . . except for maybe a mini-series here or there. This character is just to flamboyant to keep locked away in a closet. Or, resigned to the occasional guest appearances in Detective or Batman. Maybe she can hook-up with the Outsiders, or the Birds of Prey for a little while. It's sad really. I just think she has so much potential. Hopefully some writer will come along and pitch a story that will get some Editor's interest. Of course the problem may just be the current direction of the book. She's kind of been locked into a series of events, for quite a while now, and maybe they need this separation to get her going in a new direction. Hey, a guy can be hopeful. Right? Anyways, Selina also seems to be frustrated. This issue, she decides to take that out on Batman. She acts like she's having fun, and being playful, but really she's just venting. And, I think, the only thing saving her from Batman's full wrath is that, unbeknownst to her . . he 'gets her' more than she realizes. They really are the perfect pair. The thing that separates them, is also the thing that attracts them to each other. I think there's aspects of both characters that the other would like to be like, but can't. Also, unfortunately, this is also what prevents them from ever being 'together'. So they'll just continue playing this 'cat-and-mouse' game with each other, and know that either would be there for the other if the situation demanded. Which is why, it's perfect, at the end of this issue . . Catwoman steals the Bat-mobile. I think Will Pfeifer and David Lopez had a great run on this series. It was definitely a piece of work that they can be proud of. I'm sorry it's over. Truly!

Batman - Gotham After Midnight #4 - DC

This book is a bit . . 'freaky'. If you don't believe me . . it clearly states it on the cover. I appreciate Steve Niles story. I know he's trying to craft a Wrightson-esque tale here, but ultimately . . I think it's just fun. I don't think Steve has the freedom here that he's usually used to, so I don't think he can take the 'horror' aspect of things quite as far as he would like. I actually think that Kelley Jones' art makes the story much more 'creepy' than the story necessarily does. Well . . except for the part where this Midnight character takes the hearts of his victims. Also, Batman, and the Commissoner, are both thinking that this guy . . minus the killing . . could be Batman. Perhaps he thinks of himself as a 'vigilante'. But they still don't know what motivates him, or triggered this series of events. Also, to me, Batman's character is more of one that's trying to make Gotham a better place to live in. His actions are motivated by the events that occur on a daily basis in Gotham's dark alley's and underbelly. This Midnight character, on the other hand, clearly has a set agenda and list of victims that he feels deserve his measure of 'justice'. At least that's the feeling I get. So I think, comparing him to the Batman is a gross misjudgement of character. Actually, this argument could really stoke a healthy debate that I just don't have time for here. So I'll just say that, to me, these 2 characters really have nothing in common. And, ultimately, this way of thinking exemplifies Steve's talent. The story may not be as horrific as his normal fare, but . . it still stokes a healthy amount of thought and analysis. What more could a writer ask for from one of his stories?

Superman #679 - DC

With this story . . were being very slowly spoon fed the pieces. Really, all I've figured out so far is that somebody in the military establishment has, somehow, brought this Atlas character forward in time. I guess they're looking for someone, or something, that they can use to take down Superman if necessary. I don't think this is the confrontation they had planned. This seems more like an exercise . . a test. The irony is . . there's no way, ultimately, that they're going to be able to control this guy. Just like what happened with Doomsday. Things will escalate out of control and Superman will eventually be the one that has to pull their fats out of the fire. But I'm wondering who is really behind all of this. So far it seems to be a military thing, but, I'm guessing, there's someone a bit more 'influential' that's pulling their strings . . or 'motivating' them. That, I think, is going to be the real revelation. So far I think James Robinson is doing a great job with this title. I'm really happy that both of Superman's titles have been so strong over the last couple of years. Jim, I feel, is going to be an excellent addition to that legacy. I'm still not thrilled with Renato Guedes artwork, but . . I am becoming more accustomed to it. I'm thinking that maybe they just haven't found the right inker for him yet. Keep trying though. He obviously has talent, I just don't think the finished product looks as good as it could. But I am diggin' this storyline. Keep up the good work guys.

Final Crisis: Rogue's Revenge #2 - DC

I'm enjoying this story. How could I do any less? It's written by the incomparable Geoff Johns. In my opinion, he's really given these characters new life. This issue they deal with the 'wanna-be' impostors that Penguin created when he gave out all of the 'lost' equipment during Gotham Underground. The 'wanna-be' rogues make a move on the real Rogues, which, in retrospect, may not have been their best idea. Especially since the real Rogues, in retaliation, came to them . . and killed them all. These guys are a bit on edge. First of all because of all the pressure that's been put on them after what happened to Bart. Secondly because it was Inertia that got them into this whole mess in the first place. Third, they turned down Libra's offer to join his organization, which is what caused the 'wanna-be' rogues to come after them in the first place. And then, on top of all of that, they have the audacity to dig up Lenny's father and try to use that against them. Not a good move at all. So when they were so boldly confronted by their fake heirs . . they had no choice but to send a message to Libra and the rest of his organization. Unfortunately, with the crowd that both sides of this conflict travel in, it's never a good thing when hostilities are amped up. Now . . Libra has the Weather Wizard's son. We do find out this issue though that Libra thinks that the 'speedsters' are the key to this whole Crisis. Which is why he's so adamant about the Rogues. They've had experience with them. And he doesn't want to take any chances. Which is also why he has Zoom training Inertia. He's got him dressed up in the Kid Flash costume and he's been training them. I'm not sure what that's all about, but it should play out to it's entirety next issue. Scott Kolins, having been the Flash penciller for such a long run, was the perfect penciller for this series. I like this down and dirty style that he's using, and I really think he's outdone himself on this series. This run is an excellent companion to the Crisis mini . . or to the Flash series, for that matter. I'll say it again . . I really like the way all of these minis are so closely woven together.

Final Crisis: Superman Beyond - 3D #1 - DC

In the last issue of Final Crisis . . issue #3 . . . a woman shows up in Lois' hospital room claiming that she knows Clark is Superman, and that she can save Lois. Basically she's frozen time on our world, and asks that Superman comes with her to try to help her save the multiverse. This is the story of what happens in the space of nanoseconds there. She has to illuminate Superman as to how the multiverse works. She explains to him about the bleed and how it keeps the various universe's separate, but can also be used to heal his wife. However, her, and her people, are the only one capable of touching or bottling it. I'm thinking that she's a Monitor. There's really nothing to suggest that . . other than maybe a little bit with her looks . . but that's what I'm thinking. It's actually a little hard to get the comprehension of what's going on in this issue because Grant Morrison has really thrown a lot of ideas in to this one. Throughout the whole issue it feels like there's so much stuff coming at us that it's hard to keep it all straight, let alone figuring out how it all works and is related to one another. There's a whole lot of fantastic ideas going on in here. So anyways, I guess, Superman has to figure out how to save the multiverse and thereby save Lois. But it hasn't really been explained to him what it is he has to do. It really feels like he's just kind of 'winging it'. However, the one thing I do understand is that we start to get a little of the history of the Monitors. We find out a little this issue about the first one . . the unknowable Monitor. Basically it was his intervention that caused the universe to split. Or, I guess, the original split. Because obviously it split more after that. Doug Mahnke does the art on this issue and it really is fantastic. After the next issue comes out, I'll probably have to go back and read this one, because, like I said, I really don't know how this one all fits together. I'm sure the next issue will help to illuminate that. By the way . . the 3-D effects were also incredible.

Teen Titans #62 - DC

I love this book . . and I love the Teen Titans. What little there are left of them, that is. This issue starts out with 5 members, and ends with . . 4. M'Gann decides that she needs to leave for a little while to address some personal issues. I imagine we'll probably see her in a mini-series somewhere. Before I move on, I'd like to say that I think Eddy Barrows is doing an incredible job with the pencils here. I knew he had talent, and that he was a serious 'up-and-comer', but this issue . . the art in this issue simply blew me away. This was easily his best work to date. Simply fantastic! Anyways, I wanted to say that while I was thinking about it. Most of this issue was actually about Wendy and Marvin . . and their new . . Wonderdog? Suffice it to say, by the end of the issue, it looks like the dog has killed Marvin and eaten Wendy. We don't know for sure, but that's the way it looks right now. And from the previews . . . the Frank Frazetta looking guy who's stroking his Wonderdog on the final page . . appears to be called Lycus. I have no idea who he is or where he came from. But apparently the Wonderdog thing was some kind of preemptive strike. I guess he was trying to soften them up. Literally! The good news is that Cyborg is back in the house. He's helping with the reconstruction and is upgrading the security, defenses, infra-structure . . well, I guess everything. To bad he couldn't have finished it before the dog arrived. It looks like next issue . . Lycus attacks. Sean McKeever is really taking these kids on a roller-coaster ride of trouble. It seems like they've gone from bad situations to worse ever since he came on board as the scripter. As long as they come out stronger on the other side . . it'll all be worth it. Titans Together!

Trinity #13 - DC

Kurt Busiek and Mark Bagley continue to turn in some incredible stories here. We're only on issue #13, but I can't believe that they've been keeping up with everything so far. And it's not a rushed job . . or at least it doesn't appear to be. The story seems very well thought out and planned, and Mark's been turning in some incredible pages . . especially considering how much work he's been doing week after week. I have nothing but respect and awe for you guys. Anyways, this issue our group makes some headway against the Crime Syndicate. Superman makes the conscious decision to tap into the influence of Wonder Woman and Batman rather than fight it. By doing that, he single-handedly takes down the Crime Syndicate's version of our trinity. The problem is, they might've made things worse. After the rest of the planet find out the the Crime Syndicate is no long in charge . . there's planet-wide riots and looting. This is definitely not the outcome they were expecting. We also find out that it's not what Enigma wanted to happen either. He decides to head back to the world and take care of matters personally. Although we don't find out this issue what it is he has planned. Meanwhile in the back-up story, Oracle, and her rather large group of operatives, have decided to stake out all of Wonder Woman's known enemies. As far as they can figure, that's the only piece of the puzzle missing for, whomever is doing this, to create the mystic alignment for each of the trinity. And indeed, they find out that they're going after Maxwell Lord's deceased body. However, Hawkman made have made things worse. He's a bit overzealous because he's tired of being one step behind on this whole thing. He strikes the guy with all the tattoos . . apparently holding a sun-god within his body . . and may have enabled the sun-god to escape. We're going to have to find out more about that next issue. This was another fantastic effort by Fabian Nicieza and Tom Derenick.

DC Universe - Last Will and Testament #1 - DC

Well, Brad Meltzer is back . . and he did a fantastic job with this book. The whole thing is really about Geo-Force, but we also see a lot of other people's point-of-views . . they're thinking that tomorrow may be the last normal day they see for a long time . . or maybe . . forever. Geo-Force is contemplating the decision to kill Slade. He's still upset about how Slade manipulated his sister and how's he's messed with his own powers. He doesn't feel that he's been adequately punished . . if at all . . for his crimes. Long story short, they confront each other, but, come to find out, Slade has been manipulating Brion for quite a while. He ends up beating the crap out of him, and knowing that he'll never beat him, Brion takes Slade's sword to his own throat. Then when Slade comes up to gloat . . Brion puts Slade own sword through him. Somehow they both survive. Black Lightning is convinced that Slade did all of this to Brion . . even the throat . . and that Brion purposefully made sure that the sword wasn't a killing stoke. He's commending him for not giving up and finally beating Deathstroke. But we all know what really happened. And I'm not convinced that Brion wasn't trying to kill him. I think he . . and his soul . . just got lucky. But, we'll probably never know for sure. The art for this issue was done by Adam Kubert, John Dell and Joe Kubert. It was incredible. We already know that Joe's an icon, but the work that Adam and John did was fantastic. Everything . . throughout the whole book . . was perfect. And now, hopefully, Brion can move on with his life and be a productive member of either the Outsiders or the JLA. I think he can finally put his demons behind him. Well, most of them anyways.

Uncanny X-Men #501 - Marvel

First of all, I'd like to say that I think Matt Fraction and Ed Brubaker are doing a fantastic job with this story. I'm not sure which to credit, or both, but I really like the way they're handling these characters. In the beginning, when Pixie goes through her trauma . . you can really feel her pain. When she finally does make it back to the X-Men, I love the way they handle each person's reaction to her incident. "What I remember most . . . the image that stuck with me more than anything else . . . wasn't the blood. Wasn't the gore. It wasn't my teammates helping the poor girl . . it was her wings. These poor, sad fairy wings, trying so hard to catch the sunlight and reflect it. Just bashed all to hell. These magical things . . . ruined." I appreciate writers who, whether through story or dialogue, can make you feel what the characters are feeling. The same was true for the scene where Emma and Scott are talking, and flirting, in the bedroom. I think it's fantastic that Greg Land is doing the art. Obviously he's very talented and gives this book a fantastic feel. The only problem I have is that I know, unfortunately, that he won't be here for ever. I imagine that he'll probably be here for this story arc, and then he'll be moving on. Don't get me wrong, I love his stuff. But, his participation is also sad because you know it'll have to end. When I saw Beaches for the first time . . you know, that movie with Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey . . I thought the ending was sad as hell. However, the second time I saw it . . knowing how it was going to end . . I thought the whole movie was sad. Unfortunately, that's how I feel. You just know it's going to have to end. So I guess I'll just have to try to enjoy what we get along the way. But, if nothing else, Pixies trauma has prompted the group to be pre-emptive. It turns out the mutant-haters are a group called the Hellfire Cult. The X-Men are going to try to set up some traps for them to take them down. Also, it appears that the group is being led by a woman who calls herself the Red Queen. She kind of looks like Jean in a dominatrix outfit. That should be an interesting development. Overall I thought it was a great book and I can't wait to read more. I also can't believe that we're over 500 now. Wow!

X-Men - First Class #15 - Marvel

As usual, Jeff Parker writes this story. However, Karl Kesel and Val Staples step in as the artists in residence. I'm a big fan of Karl's. I like that he's adapted his style a little bit, for this book, to give it it's youthful, playful feel that it always has. He's a great artist, but if he'd done his usual style here . . it probably just wouldn't have felt right. You know what I mean? Anyways, this appears to be the teams first encounter with Medusa. This is back when she was running around with the Frightful Four. She had amnesia and she wasn't really sure how she fit in. Plus, sensing her intrinsic power, the Wizard was taking advantage of her situation. There's not really any mention of the Inhumans though. She does have one flash of memory that involves Gorgon, but that's about it. Anyways, sensing that she's lost and confused, the team takes her in. They're like the County Animal Shelter of the mutant world. She's an X-Man, temporarily . . probably like 2 day tops . . until the Wizard shows up to reclaim his 'asset'. There's a fight, they beat the Wizard, and his hold is broken on her. Oh yeah, also Warren has come back from his 'retreat'. This is a fun book. Like I keep saying, it's nice to see these characters when they were young and vibrant and full of hope. It's a welcome change from recent years.