Monday, July 25, 2011

San Diego Comic Con 2011

As you all must know by now, San Diego Comic Con was this past weekend and my sister and I went on Saturday. As usual the place was packed with people, there were a lot of great costumes and more importantly, we got to meet up with some of our favorite creators!

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Things were in full swing for the upcoming Arkham City game (though nothing on The Dark Knight Rises)

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Transformers had a major presence as well, but there was nothing quite like the Lego sculptures spread out throughout the hall.

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Marvel had some pretty cool things strewn about, though I can't help but think Odin's throne last year was much cooler than the SHIELD stage.


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There were a group of cosplayers that dressed up as heroes, but the opposite gender. Unfortunately, I only got pictures of these two. 

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And bunches more!

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Here's me with writer's Jonathan Hickman (FF, S.H.I.EL.D., Red Wing) and writer Nick Spencer (Morning Glories, T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents)

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Here are Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Scott Snyder (American Vampire, Detective Comics), Francesco Francavilla (Detective Comics), Tony Daniel (Batman), and Jim Lee

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We got these sketches from Francavilla and Albuquerque

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And we bought these prints from Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman (Undying Love), and Albuquerque

Comic Con is pretty much the best place in the world for comic fans!
If you can, make sure you get there some time.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

They brought arms...to an arms control conference

Hello all. My sincerest apologies for being absent for a couple of weeks. I was at the Grand Canyon lat week and well, I was distracted. In an attempt to keep things fresh, I've decided to change things up when it comes to reviews starting next week. From now on, I will be choosing my favorite books of the week and reviewing those only. 

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #2 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Sean Murphy
Cover Artist: Sean Murphy
Publisher: Vertigo

Sometimes a spin-off story comes out of a book and you're left questioning whether that was a good idea. In this particular case, it was an amazing idea. Not only has Snyder kept the original series fantastic, this spin-off is absolutely brilliant stuff as well. The story is great. A search for a cure, sounds simple right? Believe me, it's anything but simple. And the art is gorgeous, really gorgeous. Murphy does an amazing job of enhancing Snyder's story.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Writer's Pull List 07/06/11

Hey everyone! In case you were wondering, comic books DO come out today. So go pick some up!

Arnab's Note: I have no notes for you guys this week. Have fun reading!

Matt's Note: Last week's post was so late because of me. Sorry team.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #25
Flashpoint #3
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #2
Superboy #9

Marvel
Fear Itself #4
Uncanny X-Men #540
X-23 #12
X-Men #14

Image
Chew #27

Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #25
Batman Beyond #7
Flashpoint #3
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #2

Marvel
Fear Itself #4
Uncanny X-Men #540
X-Men #14

Image
Chew #27

Writers' Pull List 06/29/11

Hello readers! How's it goin? This here is our weekly pull list. It's our way of giving you guys a heads up on all the great books we'll be reading and reviewing!

Arnab's Note: There are a lot of books this week. It's as if all the books that rarely come out, decided, why don't we all just come out on the same day. And then they did.

Matt's Note: Children's Crusade Children's Crusade Children's Crusade


Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #7
Detective Comics #878
Flashpoint: Green Arrow Industries #1
Gotham City Sirens #24
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #11
T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents #8

Marvel
Avenger's Children's Crusade #6
FF #5
Uncanny X-Men #539
X-Men: Prelude to Schism #4

Vertigo
American Vampire #16
Image
Last Mortal #2
Walking Dead #86

Top Cow
Artifacts #8

Matt's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #7
Flashpoint: Green Arrow Industries #1
Flashpoint: Project Superman #1
Gotham City Sirens #24
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #11
Wonder Woman #612

Marvel
Avenger's Children's Crusade #6
Uncanny X-Men #539
X-Men: Prelude to Schism #4

Vertigo
American Vampire #16

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

He's one of us. That's all that matters.

New Mutants #26 ***
Writers: Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning
Artists: Leandro Fernandez and Andres Mossa
Cover Artist: Marko Djurdejevic
Publisher: Marvel

My review for this book is quite simple. The story is great. This group of junior X-Men are on a mission to locate and rescue Nathaniel Grey. It's an interesting concept and while there hasn't been much action, that looks like it will pick up next issue. The art is not great. The figures are often distorted and warped and at times is a distraction. However, the alien freak and the graffiti did end up looking good, but it wasn't good enough to save the art.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Writer's Pull List: 6-22-2011

Hey everyone! Today is new comic book today. Which means you need to go out and buy some books, and this here list will let you know what books you should be buying.

Arnab's Note:The unfortunate news of the Green Lantern movie's well, unsuccessful nature has deterred me from watching it, which is a shame, because I had wanted it to succeed.

Matt's Note:  I do not agree with the existence of a "Wolverine & The X-Men" book.

Arnab's list:
DC
Batman: Gates of Gotham #2
Flashpoint: Kid Flash Lost #1
Green Arrow #13

Marvel
New Mutants #26
X-Men Legacy #251


Matt's List:
DC
Brightest Day Aftermath: The Search for Swamp Thing #1
Flashpoint: Kid Flash Lost starring Bart Allen #1
Flashpoint: Reverse Flash
Superman #712

Marvel
New Mutants #26
Secret Avengers #14
X-Men Legacy #251

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

That means Storm has had enough

 Gladstones School for World Conquerors #2 ****1/2
Writer: Mark Andrew Smith
Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Cover Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Publisher: Image

If you love a quirky, fun book, than this one is for you. This school of villains in training is great fun, because the characters are terribly amusing. The major plot twist is that the villains of the world and the superheroes of the world have made a pact, a peace pact. Every now and then they'll put on a show for the world, but for the most part they're acquaintances of sorts. The kicker, is that these kids training to be supervillains have no idea. This is just an overall terribly amusing and light-hearted book. Great characters, interesting story, and terrific art means excellent read.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Writer's Pull List 06-15-11

Hey everyone! Today is new comic book today. Which means you need to go out and buy some books, and this here list will let you know what books you should be buying.

Arnab's Note: All 52 DC books have now been announced and I can't tell you how disappointed I am in all of this.

Matt's Note:  Here's hoping Green Lantern isn't as big a pile of shite as the reviews are claiming it is.


Arnab's list:
DC
Batman #711
Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #1
Teen Titans #96

Marvel
Generation Hope #8
Uncanny X-Men #538
X-Factor #221
X-Men #13
X-Men Prelude to Schism #3

Image
Gladstones School for World Conquerors #2
Undying Love #3


Matt's List:
DC
Batman #711
Flashpoint: Wonder Woman and the Furies #1

Marvel
Generation Hope #8
Uncanny X-Men #538
X-Factor #221
X-Men #13
X-Men Prelude to Schism #3
Invincible Iron Man #505
Avengers #14

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

There is a world behind the one we know

I figured that since I was late enough as it was, I would just combine last week's books with this week's.

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Sean Murphy
Cover Artist: Sean Murphy
Publisher: Vertigo

At this  point in time, I think it's perfectly safe to say that Scott Snyder can do no wrong. From the American Vampire series, to Detective Comics, and now to the American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest, this man is a literary genius. This mini-series follows Jim Book's daughter, Felicia, who is struggling with being an enhanced, but not vampire, human. At the same time, Cash, (remember him?), is having to deal with a monstrous child. What appears to be the driving plot for this story is a cure for vampirism. We get to see things from the point of view of the vampire hunters, those that have dedicated their lives to eradicating the creatures. When you start reading the book you get reintroduced to characters that have been gone for a while, but it's so well written it's almost as if they never left to begin with;  it's like catching up with an old friend. And that's a major testament to how well this book is written. Sean Murphy is handling the art for this and his work is fantastic. The linework, the gritty feel, everything about the art is fantastic and it really enhances the story.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Writer's Pull List 06/08/11

What up folks! This is our pull list. It's pretty self explanatory, it's what we will be reading and reviewing. It's pretty consistent, but with a whole new batch of DC books coming your way, things are bound to shake up soon.


Arnab's note: I absolutely hate what DC has done with Dick and Barbara. Hate.

Matt's note: This DC Reboot news makes even less sense than it initially did. It's reached the point of absurdity.

Arnab's list:
DC
Batman and Robin #24
Birds of Prey #13
Red Robin #24

Marvel
X-Men Legacy #250
Vertigo
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1

Matt's List: 
DC
Batman and Robin #24
Birds of Prey #13
Red Robin #24
Booster Gold #45

Marvel
X-Men Legacy #250
Vertigo
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1

Friday, June 3, 2011

Writer's Pull List 06/01/11

Hello good people of the world. This is our pull list. That means it's a list of books that we will be reading and reviewing. It also means it is the time for you to freshen up your own lists as well as recommend some great books to us.

Arnab's Note: How many of you heard DC's big news? If you haven't, well it's a big one.

Matt's Note: X-Men First Class this week! I cannot wait.


Arnab's List:
DC
Flashpoint #2
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #1
Superboy #8

Marvel
Fear Itself #3
S.H.I.E.L.D. vol. 2 #1
Uncanny X-Force #11
X-23 #11
X-Factor #220
X-Men #12


Matt's List:
DC
Flashpoint #2
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #1
Flashpoint: Abin Sur Green Lantern
Superboy #8
Batman Beyond #6
Wonder Woman #611

Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. vol. 2 #1
Uncanny X-Force #11
X-Factor #220
X-Men #12

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Let's cut all the babies in half!

American Vampire #15 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

Holy shit on a shish kebab. If you want lessons on how to create a brilliant book, you read this one. This arc has taken this series to a whole new level in so many ways. For the first part, this story has been absolutely fantastic. There's a new breed of vampire, or rather a very old breed that has gone unnoticed, and apparently they can wound Skinner. How sweet of a plot twist is that? (No pun intended) Pearl, sweet Pearl, is on her way to save her beloved Henry, but after that reveal I can only imagine she's being led into a trap. Speaking of Henry, he and his army pals have all been herded into some type of torture building. This whole story is so flipping amazing. And the art is absolutely gorgeous. Albuquerque has stepped it up a whole mess of notches for this arc and this issue. There are a whole mess of vampire stories out right now, across all mediums, but by far this story stands out as brilliant. Snyder and Albuquerque, issue after issue, redefine everything you know about vampires and not only that, but the vampires are then integrated into world history. Absolutely riveting stuff here.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

I think you're probably too young and too stupid to be scared.

Generation Hope #7 ***
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salvador Espin
Cover Artist: Salvador Espin and Morry Hollowell
Publisher: Marvel

I can't exactly put into words what it is about this series that isn't grabbing onto me. I think a large part is that I find these characters to be tremendously boring. The lights, who I still find to be highly unoriginal, are just so cutoff from the rest of the X-Men, both emotionally and physically. Normally I wouldn't really have a problem with a team that works independently, but let's get one thing straight, this gang is a team of kids. I don't understand what direction the writers are trying to go with this series, but I'm still hoping that we get an inkling of that sometime soon.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Writer's Pull List 05-25-11

Hey guys! It's time for the pull list. Our chance to let you know what we read and your chance to let us know if we should be reading something else.

Arnab's Note: You may have noticed my reviews haven't gone up yet. It's because I've been a tad busy graduating. Fear not, they will be posted soon.

Matt's Note:  First, congrats to Arnab! Second, I hope to be getting a new job soon, which should hopefully make me hate life less and thus blog more.


Arnab's List: 
DC
Detective Comics #877
Gotham City Sirens #23
Green Arrow #12
Green Lantern #66
Green Lantern Corps #60
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #10
Marvel
FF#4
Uncanny X-Men #537
X-Men Legacy #249
Vertigo
American Vampire #15
Image
Walking Dead #85


Matt's List:
DC

Gotham City Sirens #23

Green Lantern #66
Green Lantern Corps #60
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #10
IDW
Dungeons and Dragons #7
Marvel
Secret Avengers #13
Uncanny X-Men #537
X-Men Legacy #249
Vertigo
American Vampire #15

Writer's Pull List 05-18-11

Hey folks! It's that time again, the time for us to let you all know what we will be reading and reviewing. It's also the time for any of you to recommend anything you think we should be reading.

Arnab's Note: It feels like I'm reading more and more books every month.

Matt's Note: This is a week late all because of me. Sorry folks. The proper one for this week will also be up momentarily.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #710
Batman and Robin #23
Batman: Gates of Gotham #1
Teen Titans #95
Thunder Agents #7

Marvel 
Generation Hope #7
Namor First Mutant Annual #1
Uncanny X-Force #10
X-23 #10
X-Factor #219
X-Men Giant-Size #1
X-Men Prelude to Schism #2

TopCow
Last Mortal #1

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #710
Batman and Robin #23

Booster Gold #44

Marvel 
Generation Hope #7
Uncanny X-Force #10
X-Factor #219
X-Men Giant-Size #1
X-Men Prelude to Schism #2

Avengers #13
Invincible Iron Man #504

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Bring him home

Chew #27 ****
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

One of the best things about this series, in my opinion, is that even after two years the creative team has the ability to surprise use readers at every turn. With this issue we get a bit of a flash forward preview of what is in store for us and it is all exciting stuff. I think, if done properly, a flash forward is a great way of setting up the upcoming story lines. It gives readers an idea of what's to come, but it also builds up a whole bunch of tension and anticipation, all good things in my opinion. Issue after issue, this series kills it every single time, in both the writing and the art.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Writer's Pull List 5-11-2011

Hey everyone!  Did you make it to free comic book day?

Here it is, our weekly list of the things we're reading. Let us know if we are crazy for our choices, or if there's some gem out there we're both missing.

Arnab's Note: I am pretty excited about this week's batch of books.

Matt's Note: Thor was great fun for the comic geek. Stay until after the credits for a teaser for Avengers that I thought was awesome.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #6
Birds of Prey #12
Flash #12
Flashpoint #1
Red Robin #23

Marvel
FF #3
New Mutants #25
X-Men #11
X-Men Legacy #248

Image
Chew #27
Undying Love #2


Matt's List
DC
Batman Incorporated #6
Birds of Prey #12
The Flash #12
Flashpoint #1
Red Robin #23
Superman #711

Marvel
New Mutants #25
X-Men #11
X-Men Legacy #248

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

You have become a greater man than I

Undying Love #2 ****1/2
Writers: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Cover Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Publisher: Image

I know by now a great deal of you no longer want anything to do with vampires, but if you're not reading this, then you're truly missing out. Now, technically this issue is set to be released this Wed. but because I had the great opportunity of meeting these guys at FCBD, I also got an early copy. And because I've read it already, I know what I'm talking about when I say you should pick this book up. Issue #1 is already in it's third printing, so that should mean something.
As I was saying. Not only is this a great, and different, take on vampires but what sells this book is the storytelling ability, in both the writing and the art (which, by the way, the same two guys do both.) There is a significant amount of violence, which is to be expected, but it just works with the story. The underlying story though, is a love story, and it is apparent, even amidst the severed body parts and gushing blood.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Free Comic Book Day

So as most of you know by now, Saturday was Free Comic Book Day.  My local comic book store, Collector's Paradise, has a fantastic event every year. They recently opened a second store, so this month they had two major events. Unfortunately, I could only get to one store. Check out some pictures after the jump!

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Writer's Pull List 5-4-11

Hey everyone! And a happy Star Wars day to you all! You've found yourself in a galaxy far far away, wait no, this is just our pull list. Our way of letting you know what you should be reading, what we're reading, and what we'll be reviewing.

Arnab's Note: No note, wait no. Saturday is free comic book day, so find a participating Local Comic Book store and have fun!

Matt's Note: Brightest Day and Age of X are over, so let's gear up for Schism and Flashpoint.



Arnab's List: 
DC
Superboy #7
Marvel
Fear Itself #2
Uncanny X-Force #9
X-Men Prelude to Schism #1

Top Cow
Artifacts #7

Matt's List:
DC
Superboy #7
Batman Beyond #5

Marvel
Uncanny X-Force #9
X-Men Prelude to Schism #1

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

You have to find a way to get me to that island

American Vampire #14 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

I'm beginning to sound like a broken record whenever I talk about this series. Henry and his army pals do a little bonding, before trouble sneaks up on them. Never having seen Skinner before is a major setback for these guys and it's actually a fact that I had forgotten about. I am so damn excited for Pearl getting into the action. I am a sucker for a badass female and Pearl is one of them. Snyder has done an amazing job of getting the readers to be emotionally invested in these characters. his characterizations and personal touches make reading this book a fantastic experience. Rafael Albuquerque's art continues to get better and better with every issue. If you had asked me in the beginning if his art could have gotten better I would have been hard pressed to say yes. But this issue is proof that his work can and is constantly getting better. 

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Writer's Pull List 04-27-11

Howdy friends and readers! Here's a list of all the cool books we will be reading and reviewing!


Arnab's Note: Holy hell folks. That is one major awesome group of books we have this week. I am super excited!

Matt's Note:  What is everyone's opinion of all the Comic Movie trailers flying around the interwebs? The international trailer for X-Men gives me some hope...

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #5
Brightest Day #24
Flash #11
Green Arrow #11
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #9

Marvel
Age of X Universe #2
FF #2
New Mutants #24
Uncanny X-Men #536
X-23 #9
X-Men #10

Vertigo
American Vampire #14
Image
Walking Dead #84

Matt's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #5
Brightest Day #24
Flash #11
Justice Leage: Generation Lost #24
Wonder Woman #610
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #9

Marvel
Age of X Universe #2
New Mutants #24
Uncanny X-Men #536
X-23 #9
X-Men #10
Avengers #12.1
Secret Avengers #12
Secret Avengers #12.1

Vertigo
American Vampire #14

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

I'll Kill You

Daken: Dark Wolverine #8 ****
Writers: Daniel Way and Marjorie Liu
Artists: Marco Checcetto and Frank D'armata
Cover Artist: Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

From the moment I first learned about Daken, I knew he couldn't be trusted. X-23 and Gambit have made it to Madripoor where Daken has become a powerful overlord. X-23 and Daken fought it out in the first part, but seem to come up with a truce in this issue. Unfortunately for Laura and Gambit, Daken is double corssng them. This crossover event has been really good. The writing has been great, smart, interesting. And the art has been fantastic. With four more parts to the story, I'm sure we'll see a couple more twists and turns which will probably be just as entertaining.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Writer's Pull List 4-20-11

Hello readers! Here's our pull list; our chance to let you know what we are reading and what you should come to expect in the form of reviews.

Arnab's Note: It's another big week this week.

Matt's Note: While the Age of X twist wasn't surprising, I'm still not sure I like it.

Arnab's List: 
DC
Batman #709
Gotham City Sirens #22
Green Lantern #65
Green Lantern Corps #59
Teen Titans #94

Marvel
Generation Hope #6
Uncanny X-Force #8
X-Factor #218


Matt's List:
DC
Batman #709
Gotham City Sirens #22
Green Lantern #65
Green Lantern Corps #59
Teen Titans #94

Marvel
Generation Hope #6
Uncanny X-Force #8
X-Factor #218
Avengers #12
Invincible Iron Man #503
Scarlet #5

IDW
Dungeons and Dragons #6
Image
68

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Some kind of enormous fight's happening behind me, isn't it?

S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity ****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Zachary Baldus, Kevin Mellon, Nick Pitarra, Gabriel Hernandez Walta
Cover Artists: Gerald Parel, Dustin Weaver, and Christina Strain
Publisher: Marvel

Those of you who enjoyed the first arc of S.H.I.E.L.D. and are waiting patiently for the next arc to start must pick up this book. It was so great. Hickman is doing a fantastic job integrating science fiction into the human history and it is mindblowing at how well how everything flows seamlessly. While the issue does leave the reader wistfully wishing for Weaver's art, it gets the job done.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Writer's Pull List 4-13-11

Well hello readers! This is our pull list. Basically just a preview list of the books we shall be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Last week was a nice breather, but we're back to business this week with 11 books.

Matt's Note:
What is everyone thinking about Age of X?

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #22
Birds of Prey #11
Flash #10
Red Robin #22
Superboy #6
T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents #6

Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity
Steve Rogers Super Soldier Annual #1
Uncanny X-Force #7
Uncanny X-Men #535
X-Men Legacy #247


Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #22
Birds of Prey #11
Flash #10
Red Robin #22
Justice League: Generation Lost #23
Superboy #6

Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity
Uncanny X-Force #7
Uncanny X-Men #535
X-Men Legacy #247

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

I almost don't even care that you're about to start yelling at me

Avengers Children's Crusade #5 ****1/2
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artists: Jim Cheung and Mark Morales
Cover Artists: Jim Cheung, Justin Ponsor, and Art Adams
Publisher: Marvel

This is without a doubt one of the best books coming out of Marvel right now. The only thing going against it is that it is bi-monthly, which means it won't be ending till November. Regardless, this issue, like all those that came before it, were fantastic. We get to see the return of not one, but two characters, though I care significantly more about one of them. Plus there's a slew of ridiculously beautiful battle scenes. With as much work and effort going into this, I just hope it makes a significant impact on the Marvel Universe as a whole.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Writer's Pull List 4-6-11

Hey everyone! Welcome to the pull list, where we tell you what we will be reading.


Arnab's Note: Not much here. Yay for Children's Crusade!

Matt's Note: My life needs more Children's Crusade.

Arnab's List:
DC
Brightest Day #23
Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade #5
Uncanny X-Men #534.1

Image
Chew #18
Nonplayer #1



Matt's List:
DC
Brightest Day #23
Batman Beyond #4

Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade #5
Uncanny X-Men #534.1

Image
Chew #18
IDW
Dungeons and Dragons #5

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

I'm writing this to say goodbye, baby

American Vampire #13 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

American Vampire enters its second year in brilliant fashion. The issue starts us off with a short review of what has happened (which makes this a great place for new readers to start,) but it's done in a way that sets up wonderfully for the future. Snyder weaves us into WWII, as Henry and Pearl find themselves on the cusp of two wars. Henry's role in this issue is a pivotal one, as it is his worries and fears that have led to this moment; his fear for Pearl's life, his feelings of sorrow over growing old, feeling left out of the action in the war, all of it has led up to this. Snyder writes a compelling story filled with moments of love, terror, and suspense. Rafael Albuquerque's art has never been better, in my opinion, or it could just be that the break from his art has brought a stronger sense of adoration for it. His ability to transition from a loving scene to dark and seedy one is near unparalleled. His washes and line-work are absolutely astounding in this issue and do a remarkable job of accentuating Snyder's words.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Pull List 3/30/2011

Howdy yall! Welcome to another week of our pull list. Our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Well hot damn, kids. I've got a bunch of books this week, which has been the situation of late. 

Matt's Note:  Not so alone in the office, so comics not so much getting read yet. BUT Children's Crusade next week!!!!

Arnab's List:
DC
Detective Comics #875
Gotham City Sirens #21
Green Arrow #10
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #875
Teen Titans #93

Marvel
Age of X Universe #1
X-#23

Image
The Walking Dead #83
Veritgo
American Vampire #13


Matt's List:
DC
Gotham City Sirens #21
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #8
Wonder Woman #609

Marvel
Age of X: Universe #1
Avengers #11
Cyclops #1
Scarlet #5
Secret Avengers #11

Vertigo
American Vampire #13

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Even if the rest of our soul is a butcher's shop

New Mutants #23 ****1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Steve Kurth, Allen Martinez, and Brian Reber
Cover Artist: Leinil Yu and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

Mike Carey has been on a roll since Age of X started. This issue reveals quite a lot, but still leaves you questioning everything. Legacy and Gambit team up with Magneto in an attempt to figurer out what is going on in the world. Personally, I'm beginning to think that maybe this whole new world that they are living in, is possibly a creation of Legion's doing. Admittedly I'm not exactly sure if it is in his power set, but considering the boy can absorb powers like nobody's business, it is a possibility.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Writer's Pull List 03-23-10

Howdy yall! Welcome to another week of our pull list. Our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Batman Streets of Gotham is ending, booo!

Matt's Note:  I'm alone in the office next week.  Which translates to comics getting read.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #4
Batman Streets of Gotham #21
Batman The Dark Knight #2
Green Lantern #64
Green Lantern Corps #58

Marvel
FF #1
New Mutants #23
Uncanny X-Force #6
Uncanny X-Men #534
X-Men #9


Matt's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #4
Green Lantern #64
Green Lantern Corps #58

Justice League: Generation Lost #22
Marvel
FF #1
New Mutants #23
Uncanny X-Force #6
Uncanny X-Men #534
X-Men #9

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

And those feelings are terror and Nausea

Avengers Children's Crusade Young Avengers #1 ****
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artist: Alan Davis
Cover Artist: Alan Davis
Publisher: Marvel

Allan Heinberg is absolutely brilliant. He writes these kids like no one else. And I don't mean that because no one has really written them. Quite the contrary. Heinberg has been able to create such a wonderful story for these guys. The flashback story was absolutely hilarious. It was fun, it was a great friendship story, and it throws an interesting twist into this whole story. The art, well that's really another story. For the main story we've been getting some stunning artwork and unfortunately, that was not the case. It's been a while since we've got the actual series and while this issue was nice, I want some more of the other stuff.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Writer's Pull List 11-17-10

Well hello readers. This is the pull list. It is where we tell you what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's note: It's not really Children's Crusade, but I'll take what I can get.
Matt's Note: I haven't even read last week's yet!

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #708
Brightest Day #22
Red Robin #21
T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents #5

Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade Young Avengers #1
Generation Hope #5
Uncanny X-Force #5.1
Uncanny X-Men Annual #3
X-Factor #217

TopCow

Artifacts #6

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #708
Brightest Day #22
Red Robin #21
Superman #709
Young Justice #2
Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade Young Avengers #1
Generation Hope #5
Iceman and Angel #1
Invincible Iron Man #502
Ruse #1
Uncanny X-Force #5.1
Uncanny X-Men Annual #3
X-Factor #217

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

It means I've joined the hunt myself

Walking Dead #82 ****
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artist: Charlie Adlard
Publisher: Image

The zombies have invaded Alexandria and no one is safe. What you need to know about this series is that, it's not really a book you want to start in the middle. While there are points in the series that would be good jumping on points, but I wouldn't recommend it. The success of the book rests on the development of the characters over time. This issue has a coupe of those moments. Like, Glen fearing the outcome of this attack, Andrea standing strong, Rick's line at the very end. Survival has always been key for these guys and right now they're in for the largest onslaught of zombies since the very beginning, only this time they have experience on their hands. As a side not, I just thought it was worth mentioning that it was great to have badass Michonne back.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Writer's Pull List 03-09-11

Hey all! So another week, another list. The pull list is our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Batman Inc #3? Finally. I am most excited for the Walking Dead #82 and X-Men Legacy #246.


Matt's Note:  My life is empty without Young Avengers.


Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #21
Batman Incorporated #3
Birds of Prey #10
Superboy #5
Image
Walking Dead #82
Marvel
X-23 #7
X-Men Legacy #246



Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #21
Batman Incorporated #3
Birds of Prey #10
Superboy #5
Justice League Generation Lost #21
Wonder Woman #608
Marvel
Sigil #1
X-Men Legacy #246

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Are you suggesting I mark Rictor by urinating on him?

Chew #17 ****
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

It's been months since we've had a taste of Chew, but the minute you start reading it is as if no time has passed at all. It is truly a testament to the creative staff, when a series is as creative as this one and has remained consistently great. The creepy lights in the sky remain at the back of our minds in this issue. But we also get some great insight into the characters, specifically Tony and his relationship with his daughter. There are so many little great bits and pieces, humorous moments, and interesting revelations that the pacing of the issue never falters. The art plays just as important a role in the story and by that I mean, is absolutely great. At this point, if you're not reading this book, you're just wrong in so many ways.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Writer's Pull List 03-02-2011

Here is our weekly look at what comics we'll be reading this week.  We're always open to suggestions!  Unless those suggestions involve the word Wolverine.

Matt's Note:  I'm loving Age of X.  I have no idea what's really happening, but I'm loving it.

Arnab's Note: Chew! Finally. Geez.


Matt's List
Marvel
X-Factor #216
DC
Batman Beyond #3
Brightest Day #21
Green Lantern #63
Image
Chew #17

Arnab's ListDC
Batman Streets of Gotham #20
Brightest Day #21
Green Lantern #63

Marvel
X-Factor #216
Image
Chew #17

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

...but the best problems are only ever solved with violence

American Vampire #12 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Danijel Zezelj
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

There comes a time in every writer's run where they either begin to falter or they maintain their level of excellence to such a consistent degree, there's little new to say from issue to issue. As far as I'm concerned, Snyder has yet to make any mistakes in this series. This issue is a one-shot that reveals quite a bit about Skinner Sweet's past, taking place between the birth of vampire-Sweet and the birth of vampire-Pearl. Skinner takes a bit of a break, from whatever it is he does, and takes in some culture, also known as Buffalo Bill Cody's Wild West Show. Unfortunately for Buffalo Bill his facts aren't so factual, naturally Skinner sets him straight. The scene between Skinner and his past love was great, it showed a slightly different side to Skinner. I think the best part of Snyder's writing, is his ability to make the reader care and even root for Snyder, regardless of sadistic tendencies. For those of you readers who think 11 issues is too much to catch up on, this 12th issue is a great starting point.