Because that's what I'd do, and I'm the guy that taught him how to run in the first place

So my appy-polly-logies to my readers. I'm sure I speak for both myself and Matt when I say, we've been busy. This is a major long post and as I mention further on that there are also a couple reviews from three weeks ago, the rest are from two weeks ago. And I'll be getting to last week's issues shortly.

Uncanny X-Men #523 **** 1/2
The X-Men have been on a wild ride in the past years, one more than the others, and it has all been leading up to the Second Coming of the Messiah. This epic event has been living up to all the expectations that I had and then some. What a great issue this was. I am loving the way that the writers have been portraying Cable and Hope's relationship. That whole hair kit scene was just a really nice touch. I am very excited to see how this all works out for Scott. The X-Force has been a clandestine operation because Scott knew that some of the X-gang would have an issue with it. And now that its existence is out in the open, not everyone agrees with their methods. And while I do have certain issues with Logan's actions in this particular issue, I think that Scott's decision to create the X-Force was the correct decision. With the New Mutants landing in, all hell's about to turn loose.

Matt Fraction has been a great asset to the X-Titles roster. I'm loving his run on the Uncanny title and I think that this issue just furthers my belief. I'm also a big fan of Terry Dodson's artwork. It has a great look and feel to it.

Necrosha

While we are at the onset of the biggest X-Men event since the turn of the Millennium, we felt it best to recap and give our takes of what has occurred in the most recent semi-major event in the X-Universe: Necrosha.

The story behind Necrosha is a long and twisted one. It begins over a thousand years ago near the height of the Roman Empire. Here existed an excellent soldier named Eliphas (who we now know as Eli Bard). He would then go on to marry one of the most powerful women in Rome, however she betrayed his love and drove him into the arms of the treacherous Selene. Selene is a mutant vampire that feeds off of the souls of people in order to live. Eliphas was coerced into working for Selene, in an attempt to capture all the souls of the people who lived in Rome so that Selene could become a God. Unfortunately, Eli failed Selene, who in turn cursed him.

Blackest Night Redux

** Writer's Note: I started this three weeks ago, but I kept putting it off because it's pretty daunting. The main story by itself is over 25 issues, which leaves a lot of information to try to summarize in a manageable blog post. But now that I'm sitting down to force the issue, hopefully we can git 'er done as a certain segment says.

In lieu of yet another Gashapon review, I'm going to be doing a Blackest Night recap/review for the masses. I promise I'll get back to weekly reviews soon, but this is a huge period of transition between old events and new, and we would be remiss if we did not reflect, however briefly, on recent happenings. Especially since this particular recent event is going to affect the DC universe for at least the next year.

Pretty Colors...

A quick note: This will deal mainly with the main story of Blackest Night, as covered in Blackest Night, Green Lantern, and Green Lantern Corps. (Some of) the tie-ins are interesting, but Arnab already reviewed all of those individually. Also, spoilers abound, so if you just want our thoughts, skip down to ***Blogger Thoughts***.

Second Coming: a 50th post special

So this is the 50th post at our little blog here, and rather than waste it on a Gashapon review (which I'm overdue on. For a change.), I thought we'd do a quick write-up on Second Coming, which starts today. This is actually a joint post, so you'll be hearing both of our thoughts.

To sum up, for those of you unfamiliar, Second Coming is about the return of Hope, both literally and (perhaps) figuratively, to the X-Men. It is the culmination of a story arc that started way, way back in 2005 with House of M. Wanda Maximoff aka the Scarlet Witch went coo-coo for cocoa puffs and long story short transformed the mutant population from the millions to a few hundred by uttering the phrase "No More Mutants." In the last 5 years there has only been one mutant born in the entire world: Hope. During the events of Messiah Complex, a mutant baby was born in Alaska which caused all hell to break lose. The X-Men were trying to rescue the baby, anti-mutant groups like the Purifiers were trying to kill it, and Mr. Sinister had his own motives. Cable managed to get the baby, and Cyclops sent him into the future to protect her. This took place at the end of 2007, and the last two years have been spent with Cable and Hope in the future, running away from Bishop, who is convinced the baby brings about a cataclysm for mutants everywhere (There was a brief period called Messiah War when X-Force jumped to the future to help Cable against Stryfe. This ended last summer). As of the last Cable issue, Hope and Cable are coming home, and from every piece of promotional art Marvel has put forth, all hell is about to break loose. It also begs to be mentioned that in the X-Force title, Bastion has risen once again and using his techno-organic technology has brought back to life the deadliest foes the X-Men have ever faced. He now controls an army of thousands and plans to eradicate the Mutant population from the face of the Earth. While the seeds to this plot were planted in the early issues of X-Force, it will come to a head in the pages of Second Coming.

About a month ago Marvel released a free "X-Men Second Coming: Prepare" teaser issue. It consisted of a several page "video diary" of a few of the X-men, and clearly showed that they were traumatized of what was happening. Oh, and there was a body. Which isn't so surprising given all of the tag line that they keep throwing out there:

One will rise.
One will fall.
One will lead.
One will sacrifice.
All will unite.

This event is being set-up as a sort of restart for the X-Men universe. Everything that was set in motion back in House of M by Wanda is coming to fruition here. We get to see if Cyclops putting all of his hope into this little girl to save mutant kind was actually reasonable or not. We get to see what the next step for Mutants are, since as a race they're getting kind of desperate. We get to see exactly who or what Hope is, and what she means for the future. But before we get there we've got 14 chapters, plus two 'Revelations' tie-ins (X-Factor and Hellbound).

Below are some thoughts, and then someday I'll actually post the checklist.

Matt's Take: 5-years worth of back-story moving towards one conclusion makes me nervous. But not as nervous as the fact that Hope is clearly tied to the Phoenix Force. Above beyond the fact that the Phoenix symbol flashed in Hope's eyes on more than one occasion, and that all of the shards of the Phoenix Force have been disappearing lately, the prologue issue had a whole section devoted to "What is the Phoenix Force?" Now, I am mighty particular about how anyone from the Grey family is treated (and let's be serious, Grey and Phoenix are kind of synonymous at this point). I loved Phoenix Endsong, and I don't want a new storyline to trample on the beauty of that arc. Also, after being terribly disappointed by how Nate Grey was treated in Dark X-Men, I'm wary. But wary does not mean I'm walking into this with any pre-judgment on how it will turn out. I am exceedingly excited for the storyline. To be honest, rumors of Second Coming are the whole reason I got back into comics recently. For now I'm keeping my hopes high and my expectations moderate, and hopefully this will pay off like it did for Blackest Night.

Arnab's Take: I am very excited folks and not just because we've hit 50 posts. Matt's already given you guys a recap on what's occurred, so that's great. House of M is really what grabbed me by my jewels and dragged me back into the Marvel world, and for that I am grateful. Second Coming is pretty much the biggest event in the X-Universe this side of the New Millennium, spanning across every single X-Title out there. I've got to say that I am not as nervous as Matt seems to be, mainly because I have faith in Matt Fraction and Christopher Yost/Craig Kyle (Plus the other writers have done pretty damn great leading up. Zeb Wells with New Mutants has gotten increasingly better with the story telling and Mike Carey has been fantastic with Legacy.) The artwork speaks for itself, I should think. With the occasional miss, the X-titles, at least the main titles, have had great artists. I can't wait to see what they come up with.

Like Matt, I also was severely disappointed with the Dark X-Men mini-series, but then again these guys know their stuff, while those guys seemed more interested in how they could completely screw up a mini-series. I can't wait to see the way these folks handle the Phoenix Force. Jean Grey is definitely one of my favorite female comic book characters and I've been known to argue that Jean Grey is the one true host to the Phoenix entity. Granted, I have been known to be wrong. My comic book guy Andy (Comic Attack) has the suspicion that Hope will be the Rachel of Earth 616. I don't know if I agree with him, I do find the thought to be very intriguing. My own personal thought is that the Phoenix got bored of relying on hosts and decided to create itself a physical representation of itself, which would naturally look like the deceased Jean Grey, who is in fact the true host. That being said I would just like to reiterate just how excited I am for Second Coming. I should also add that unlike Matt, at this point at least, I have already read the first issue of Second Coming. I loved everything and will have a better and longer review in the days to come.

Oh and a thought that I would like to leave you all with. Believe in Cyclops as he has long believed in his son and the messiah. The X-Men as an entity has meant everything to Scott since he was a teenager and the survival of the mutant race has meant even more to him since Decimation. He has united the mutant race like none before him nor any after him ever will; Fear his power. And while there will be reason to falter in your faith of him in the days to come and the battle with Bastion and his allies, know that everything he has done has been with the knowledge that the mutant race is dying and survival is the only thing he has been fighting for.

******

Since this blog clearly has more than a passing interest in Phoenix, we'll be covering the story, and we'll try not to fan-boy gush too much. Stay tuned!

Sweet dreams, Sunshine

The Rise of Arsenal ****1/2
What a way to start off this mini-series. The very first thing you see when you start reading is Lian, Roy Harper's now deceased daughter. And what a way for both the writer, JT Krull and the artists, Geraldo Borges and Marlo Alquiza to dig that knife just a little deeper. We witness some of the final moments of poor Lian's life, the attack by Prometheus, the mutilation of Roy, and that's just the beginning. Roy then awakes from his coma and not only realizes that his right arm is missing but that his daughter has been killed. Roy is leaves the League and ends up at the home he only recently shared with his daughter.
This was a great issue. The artwork was nice, the writing was great, but even more importantly the whole issue just meshed well. Roy has always had a bit of a tragic life. Nothing in comparison to the Bat folk, who are surrounded by death, but rather personal tragedy. I can honestly say, I am stoked to see how this turns out.

Can't a guy just show his kids how much he loves them?

Batman 697 ****1/2
What is there left to say about Tony Daniel that I have not been saying from day one. This issue marked the culmination of Tony's first major story, along with the culmination of Dick's first major takedown as the new Batman. Tony Daniel has been doing a tremendous job bringing out Batman in Richard and vice versa. The writing has been progressively getting better with each issue that Tony pens and his artwork has remained amazing. He's been going so great doing both the writing and the artwork, that I wouldn't want to be the writer/artist that is missing their deadline.
There are a couple of key points that should be taken away from this issue. The first is that Dick Grayson is badass. Now, taking into consideration that this was a job that Dick didn't even want to take to begin with, he has taken over for Bruce at a level that is nearly, if not already, That being said, it was particularly ocious in this issue that Dick will be a different kind of Batman, and Dic Grayson Batman. I'm looking to see how things tie up on Selina Kyle's part.

I still stick with this title being one of the best titles out there right now and anyone not reading it is severely missing out on everything.

Gashapon Reviews: March 17, 2010

I'm currently on the hunt for a new comic shop. The problem I'm running into is that I'm so opinionated about things, I don't handle it well when I consider the other patrons to be idiots.

Marvel:

Dark Avengers #15 (****)

Well, that mystery is solved. If I wasn't so lazy I'd go back and see if my guesses were right, but alas. I enjoyed this issue a lot, because it filled in more pieces to the Siege puzzle. And you really begin to see just how unhinged the Sentry really is. Osborn built such a house of cards here, and while hardly unexpected, I find it to be incredibly interesting to watch how it comes tumbling down. And I thought the art was pretty, so there's that.

Gashapon Reviews: March 10, 2010

Arnab tells me that March 17 is a big day for comics, so I figured I'd better focus on getting these reviews out of the way sooner rather than later. Final Fantasy XIII has been slowing me down.

Marvel:

Cable #24 (****)

I give this issue four stars not because it was great, but because I would tell my fellow comic book readers to read this issue and no others, as it sums up in one issue all the ridiculous water-treading of the last four or five months of Cable. Some think Hope is the savior of Mutantkind so Cable takes her into the future to keep her safe. Bishop disagrees so he tries to kill her. Wrap up the chase with a four page montage and we're set. Everything after Messiah War could quite frankly have been a one-shot if you ask me, and if it were, it would look like Cable 24. I'm very glad this ended, as I've been waiting for Second Coming for months now. Is Hope really what they've been, err, hoping she would be? Now we get to find out.

We have to stop him--before he kills again!

What a fabulous week in comics this was.

The Rise and Fall ****
I get around a lot, on the internet that is, and I've got to say that the lead into this story (JLA: Cry for Justice) has been getting mixed reviews. I read it and I thought it was good stuff and quite frankly, this issue did not disappoint. Let me run you through it.
Green Arrow has been driven to murder with the destruction of Star City (his city for those of you not in the know), the dismemberment of his son (Red Arrow-Roy Harper), and the death of his granddaughter Lian. Who could blame him really. Apparently the readers of the world and the JLA. In this book, a one shot by the way that will lead into two four part mini series, Ollie has returned to Star City in the hopes of finding and killing the Electrocutioner (the man that set off the bomb that killed 90,000.) And while the Black Canary prevents him from doing so, she is interrupted by Green Arrow and the Flash who have just found out Ollie has killed. This was a pretty good one shot. I feel that JT Krul, a relative newcomer, has captured the characters very well. Personally, I don't particularly have too much of a problem with Ollie killing Prometheus. I know as superheroes you're not supposed to kill, but there are exceptions to every rule, why not this one. I for one am very excited for boy The Rise of Arsenal and The Fall of Green Arrow.
Now the artwork. I don't particularly understand the purpose of multiple artists to a book, other than I guess maybe it's for time constraints and deadline purposes. That being said, there were three artists to this book: Diogenes Neves, Mike Mayhew, and Fabrizio Florentino. I haven't heard of two of them, but I have encountered Diogenes before (Blackest Night Green Arrow and New Mutants,) and will continue to praise him. Of the other two, one was very good and the other was decent, only time will tell me which was which.

Last Stand of New Krypton #1 ****
I need Last Stand of New Krypton and the following, War of Supermen, to be a great series. I say this because I've never been a die hard Superman fan. As a character I've always felt that he's had this over the top boy scout feel, suffice to say I was not impressed. On the contrary Superboy is one of my favorite characters and I've really enjoyed newcomers Christoper and Mon-El, Thara is decent and Kara tends to be more annoying than anything else. That being said, I shall proceed.
This issue was decent. It wasn't the greatest thing I've read this week, but there was definitely some great stuff in it. General Zod sacrificing his men in attempt to destroy Brainiac's ship, ruthless. Ending up not making a dent but killing hundred of his own soldiers instead, tragic. I find it odd that Superman goes around all the time wearing his Superman outfit under everything he wears. Conner and Mon-El blasting in with the Legion of Superheroes was pretty damn awesome. Zod ordering there arrests, however, was not. I think the best scene though was when Superman is able to penetrate Brainiac's ship, using his past encounter as a model, only to be shot by Lex Luthor. and while you may think I'm a psycho, let me explain why this was the best scene. Nearly all superheroes in the existence of time have a couple major enemies. For Supes it has always been Lex Luthor and Brainiac. And while the readers were aware of Luthor's involvement, I thought it was only fitting for Clark to find out that on the eve of devastation, his two greatest enemies have joined together.

And as a complete side note. Lois Lane is pretty bad ass and believe you me, I don't throw that phrase out just for anybody. I mean with one press of the button she can have the U.S. Army, the President of major companies, or even the JLA or the JSA at her side ready to take orders at a moment's notice. She is one lady you do not want to anger.

Batman and Robin #10 ****1/2
Now this is the Grant Morrison I've come to love. As I've mentioned in my previous Batman and Robin reviews, this series has been great except for the minor blip that was the previous story. This book was action packed. Bruce Wayne leaving clues throughout time, a hidden Bat Cave, Damien being brain washed and manipulated by his conniving mother, Dick being awesome. I think it's great that Bruce has so much faith in his minions to have these outrageous clues in hopes that they cans solve them. I feel bad for Damien, yes I said it, for having what could possibly be the worst mother in the history of time. Can't wait for The Return of Bruce Wayne.
I think that it is safe to say that Batman and Robin higher ups, maybe even Grant Morrison, are making a decisive effort to maintain a certain feel to the artwork in this whole title. Andy Clarke is yet another artist who likes his human figures to be more clay-like than muscle-toned. That being said I did find his technique to be pretty awesome.

Batgirl #8 ****
So began, or is it technically continued, the reunited efforts of Stephanie Brown and Timothy Wayne. Ex-lovers, ex-sort of partners, ex-friends, or whatever they were. Timothy is back in town after his graceful defeat of the League of Assassins and Stephanie Brown is fresh off her near death incident and assistance of the Dynamic Duo. With Ra's hellbent on taking out everyone close to Tim, he rushes back to Gotham for help, only to find Stephanie Brown. This book was a lot of fun. The dialogue between Red Robin and Batgirl were witty and amusing; Bryan Miller has been great writing Batgirl. The artwork, which included a slew of guest artists Talent Caldwell, Yvel Guichet and John Stanisci, had it's share of issues and moments of awesomeness. Unfortunately for you guys, I have no idea who did what pages. As a result, I can only say that one artist was fabulous, another was okay, and the third was a tad wonky. That being said, this issue induced memories of old, when Dick and Barb would have cross-title story lines. Also to add, Stephanie Brown's interactions with Tim made her a much more likeable character, to me at least. And man is Timothy handy with scissors and fabric.

In other news, St. Nick is in fact back in our lives. And this time, by our I mean mine and Dick's.

Red Robin #10 ****
With revelations about Tim's journey coming out left and right, Pru's arrival, and the Ra's coming to Gotham, this issue was action packed. As he has been doing so regularly, Chris Yost has been doing an excellent job writing this book. I can't stand Vicki Vale and feel her coming back to Gotham can only mean bad things. Ra's is acting like a big baby, if you ask me. I get the distinct feeling Prudence has a thing for our little Timmy and to add Stephanie seems to be falling back in love. Thomas Elliot coming in is making me feel a bit antsy, but I'm hoping his greed is enough to reject Ra's. Did I mention that I'm totally digging this cross-title mini-series? The artwork in this, Marcus To, is in my opinion getting better every issue. And here's hoping Tammy Fox has an ounce of secrecy and intelligence her father Lucius is overflowing with. Can't wait for the conclusion.

Nemesis: The Imposter #1 ***1/2
This was one of those last minute throw-ins courtesy of my Comic book guy. Walking around the store, I probably would have walked right pass this one, as the cover gives no indication whatsoever of the actual story. Turns out that this little bad boy, at least for now, is a Bat book. The book followed a fellow named Nemesis, who is driving a car with a gunshot victim passenger, the Joker. Ivan Brandon, who's another person I had not heard of prior to this issue, is pretty good writer. It flowed well and effortlessly, and certainly got me interested as to who this Nemsis is. The artwork by Cliff Richards was great stuff. It was overall a pretty good read. Consider me on the verge of being hooked. I say verge because I'm slowly running out of comic book funding.

The Flash: Rebirth

So, since I didn't really have ANY comics to read last week (actually two weeks ago, I'm just this slow), I figured I might as well whip up a review of The Flash: Rebirth! I read the whole thing last week anyway.


To be blunt, I've always found The Flash to be kinda annoying. Well, not annoying, but no where near my top 5 favorite heroes. Even in the animated Justice League cartoon. Just in the DC universe, I'd much rather talk about Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, and sometimes even Supes *gasp* instead of Flash. But then I read Blackest Night, and as Arnab accurately pointed out in his Blackest Night Tie-In Part 3, Barry Allen is kind of awesome. Add to that the fact that in a lot of the Brightest Day promotional releases there has been a strong Flash presence, and that I really enjoyed reading the new Green Lantern Secret Origin series, I thought I'd give it a go.

25 words or less: Overall I enjoyed it, even if I'm not entirely sure what was happening at any particular point.

The story opens with everyone getting ready for a party to celebrate Barry Allen's return. Having not read Final Crisis, it took me a bit (and a Wikipedia search) to realize that's when he had returned. It's kind of evident from the beginning that while Barry is happy to be back in one sense, he's not in others. I guess if you join with the very essence of speed, it's hard to slow down.

Which brings me to my "What the hell is the Speedforce?" portion of this recap. Even after reading the whole series I'm not entirely sure. To pull a Star Trek reference out of my ass, I feel like it's kind of similar to subspace, in that it's this energy that powers all the speedsters and sort of exists across all time. If you learn to control it well enough, you can enter the Speedforce and then exit it at any time? Is that how that works? I think I'm showing how green I am on Flash mythology.

Anyway, Barry suddenly finds that when he touches other speedsters they die, because he's kind of the Black Flash, but apparently that's because the Reverse Flash has started an anti-speedforce which is radiating backwards through history and has somehow infected Barry's speedforce (which we also find out was started by him). However, Barry manages to cleanse himself of the anti-speedforce by running really fast, and then he and Wally go back in time to stop the Reverse Flash from screwing up Barry's past anymore than he already has.

It just seems very convoluted to me. I'll readily believe it's because I jumped into the mythology without getting a proper backing on it. I sort of already knew about the Reverse Flash from reading Blackest Night, but on the whole I spent a lot of time going "Huh?" All that being said, I did enjoy the story, and hopping into a new hero mythology that I was completely unfamiliar with. I found the time-travel twist of the Reverse Flash especially interesting, since I love me a good paradox. Now I have a much better idea of who Barry Allen and Wally West and Bart Allen are now that I've read this, and I think I'm much better prepared to handle what comes after Blackest Night.

So in a final estimation, I'd give the whole series four stars, if I think each individual issue would only get three. I'd definitely read them all together though, as I'm not sure issue 6 was worth waiting whatever ridiculous amount of months it took after issue 5 to get released. Luckily for us, that's not really an issue. Unless you get lost in the Speedforce, of course.

Blackest Night Tie-Ins Part 3

Blackest Night: Flash ****1/2
So as has been made perfectly clear from the get go, Blackest Night is a Green Lantern event. I don't think Barry Allen got that memo. Who are we kidding kids, Barry Allen nearly single-handedly stole the show. And I don't particularly mean specifically this three part tie-in, which was awesome, definitely the best of this bunch, most definitely top 5 tie-in status (which is saying something seeing as there were 25 Blackest Night tie-in stories and 45 tie-in issues. Wow.) But even outside of this tie-in Barry has pretty much changed the direction of Blackest Night. A couple of times. He was the first to die, last to be reborn. He spread word of the Black Lanterns. He single-handedly prevented both himself and Hal Jordan, who is pretty much the leader of the Green Lanterns at the moment, from being reacquired by Nekron. He has what could be the most popular quote of the series, "All will be well." He saved his grandson Bart. I mean, c'mon people. He's pretty much the savior of everyone. Go Bartholomew Henry Allen!
And we're off. This Flash tie-in was fantastic. Seeing as Barry had just made his triumphant return, the first issue was a bit of a history lesson to help those unacquainted catch up. The whole issue takes place before Nekron's grand appearance and Barry is having to deal with the Black Lantern Reverse Flash, not to be mistaken with the currently living Reverse Flash. Barry then makes a pit stop at his old buddy Solovar, the Gorilla's town. Suffice to say Solovar has been dead for many years and is now a Black Lantern. The second and third issues follow Barry as he is becoming accustomed to his temporary role as a Blue Lantern. His being is overcome with a great sense of Hope, which is fitting because he is Hal's best friend. I know, some of you are thinking, who cares. The answer, you, or at least you should. The way the Blue Lantern rings work is that they are based off the emotional spectrum, like the other rings, but without Will, Hope eventually dies out. Thus, the Blue Lantern rings are at their full power when in vicinity of a Green Lantern.
While Barry was quick enough to evade the special Black Rings, unfortunately his estranged grandson Bart (also named Bartholomew Henry Allen II) was unable to do so. I loved, Loved, the Barry and Bart scene. I'd say that it perfectly summed up their relationship, estranged with a desire for more. And that bit of hope is exactly what saved Bart, well that and their joined connection to the Speed Force. What saved them all from the Black Lantern Reverse Flash you ask? Why that'd be the Rogues. The who? No, not those old farts. The Rogues are pretty much The Villains of the Flash-verse. And as such, they were graced with nearly a 50% stake of this series. There are a bunch of them but only two worth mentioning, because to be hones, I only know two of their names. Captain Cold is pretty much the Mr. Freeze of Keystone City. And while he's been known to have a conscience and feel guilt, he's still a Rogue at heart. He takes on an old love of his and is able to freeze his emotions before freezing her in a block of ice.
How'd he save the Flashes you ask? He froze the living Reverse Flash, who was imprisoned and as a result Black Lantern Thawne (I apologize for changing his name, I couldn't stand to write it the other way once more) froze as well. The other Rogue that I have a sliver of a connection to is Boomerang. Those of you who have read Identity Crisis and have a shred of emotion in your heart will remember him as the son of the man who killed Timothy Drake Wayne's father. Well this fool, the son, came to the conclusion that he could "cure" his father by feeding him humans. The Rogues find out and find out that he also killed women and children, which is a big no no. Nice to know even crooks have a code. Suffice to say Cap Cold threw in Boomerang Jr. into the pit where his Black Lantern father was. If you had to pick up one of these issues, it would be this one. No questions about it.
Geez, I almost completely forgot to talk about the artwork. Scott Kolin, I'm not particularly sure I completely loved the art. It's weird, because I liked it all except for their faces. And it's not really that I didn't like the faces, it's just that I thought that they were a bit too cartoony and didn't mesh well with the bodies and their surroundings. But with a different body, those faces would be just fine.

Blackest Night: Wonder Woman **1/2
I've never been a Wonder Woman enthusiast so my review may have a hint of a bias. For one thing, the first issue seemed like it didn't really belong with the second and third issues. I know why it was the way that it was, what with her becoming a Lantern and all, but I felt it still could have been tied together a bit better. Scratch that. Upon rereading the first book, I realize that there was an attempt to set things up for Diana. As she was being attacked by Black Lanterns left and right, she emanated only one emotion, Love. I didn't, however, understand how her Lasso was able to destroy all of the Lanterns, but oh well. The second two issues, in my opinion, were saved by Mera's appearance. I know, I know, you are all thinking, "What an idiot." You are wrong.
Here's what I am feeling. I do not think that Diana has the ability to overcome the powers of the Black Lantern Ring, regardless of when Matt tries to convince me the Violet Ring takes over. I did not appreciate a whole fight scene(Cassie, Donna, Hippolyta and Bruce) that was pure imagination. What a crock. And more importantly, I am displeased with the continued implications of Diana's interest in Bruce. Unless I am missing something, her love of all loves was Clark and frankly, she should keep her Amazonian parts to herself. That being said, I thought Mera's cameo in this was great. I never really knew Mera, but with her resurgence as a result of Blackest Night, consider me interested. And just to wrap things up, I think Nicola Scott is a fairly decent artist, but the man just cannot do faces. I mean, he takes wonky and turns it up a notch.

Blackest Night: JSA ***
So the first two issues of this three part tie-in series were very good. The original Flash and Green Lantern kicking ass is always awesome. The rest of the JSA, who I have only passing knowledge of, were actually pretty interesting. Major plot points. Kal-L made his triumphant return as a Black Lantern as a result of some really crafty thinking on the other Black Lantern's part. Now, the Black Lanterns have not really been zombie like throughout the entirety of Blackest Night, but in this series they were especially witty. I mean, pretending to have a conscience, then fighting other Black Lanterns to assert your trust-worthiness, culminating with a self-explosion, all in order to break the ground to open a pathway to reach Black Lantern Superman. How genius is that? I wasn't exactly a fan of the multiple artist deal, most specifically because Power Girl was god awful ugly. I don't know which artist did what, but one was fantastic and the other was a let down. Moving on, who knew that a Black Lantern ring could move from one body to the next? I certainly didn't. I didn't really think that the conclusion suited the first two issues. I know that the fight scene between Power Girl and Superman was probably meant to be more emotionally taxing, but who are we kidding, it wasn't. And while having that machine take out all of the Black Lanterns in New York was cool, it was just so anti-climactic.

Secret Six 17-18 **1/2
No offense to this series in particular, but I completely forgot this tie-in even existed for the longest while. In fact, I didn't remember about it until I came to write my review. That being said, this wasn't exactly the worst of tie-ins. Other than the fact that I didn't know anyone other than Bane(yes, the man who broke Batman's back) and Amanda Waller (who I utterly despise) and was therefore confused from time to time, the overall plot wasn't too bad. Two teams battling it out. A truck load of deaths. Truces and death threats. Ending with a gunshot and a man changing sides. That's really all you need to take out of this. Unlike the Flash and Wonder Woman tie-ins, and slightly the JSA tie-in, there is little attempt at relating to Blackest Night. This was pretty much two Secret Six issues that happened to have some Black Lanterns in it.

You ever been to New Krypton?

So this was supposed to be a light week and for the most part it was.

First Wave #1 **1/2
So I got this because on of my comic book store's owners said it was the best of the week. He's not one of the usual guys I deal with but he's nice enough. That being said, I was not very impressed. I mean, by al rights I know I should be. I mean DC has been building this new series up like nothing else, what with the preview being in nearly every DC issue I've picked up in the past two weeks. Here's what I've got for you. One, there was no Batman. And I'm in no way implying that all comics in existence need Batman, not that that wouldn't be awesome, but if he's going to be on the cover he could at least make an appearance. I mean, c'mon! That aside, I didn't find the plot to be overall all too exciting. It didn't make me want to read more. Doc Savage's plot wasn't all to interesting to be honest. Plus it didn't help that I kept mixing up his amigos. The Spirit was amusing, but his plot wasn't exciting. My comic book store has different issues that are returnable every week. This was one of them and while I toyed with the idea of returning it, I ended up not doing so.

Adventure Comics #9 ***1/2
I wouldn't particularly consider this an amazing issue or great even. However, I do think it serves it's purpose. With the Last Stand of New Krypton arriving next week, this serves as a great tie-in as well as a fairly informative issue. Brainiac 5, who I confused with his ancestors because they are all named something-dox, was pretty interesting. I did have to wikipedia him because other than Legion of Three Worlds I know next to nothing about him. Granted, it was interesting to find out that without the Legion's help Superman will die. Conner and Mon-El finally get together with the Legion. It was a tad shocking when Con's teacher ripped open his shirt. The darndest thing happened though, as I was looking up Legion of Three Worlds, I realized that Mon-El was there in the future, looking as young as ever. So that begs the question, is that the same Mon-El or is a different universe Mon-El? Also, if that's the same Mon-El, then clearly he does not die. It's times like this that I wish I knew someone that read everything I read. The final story was about a Kryptonian gal who has infiltrated General Lane's ranks. Good for her, at least the Kryptonian's will have one Ace.

Walking Dead #70 ***1/2
So this technically came out last week, but at that time I wasn't sure how I was planning on reviewing this series. As you can tell, I chose to review them by issue. I may make a separate review specifically to catch up from issues 1-69 in the near future. So this issue was pretty interesting. Rick and the gang are are at a new community, which is surprising seeing as the world has gone to hell. Rick with his new haircut, odd, Carl playing football and being happy, awesome. I don't know what to say about this new group of people. I want things to go well, but naturally I have my doubts. I am especially weary as to the past of these new folk.

Gashapon Reviews: February 24, 2010

Arnab asked last week about whether he'd be alright in spoiling comics, and I responded that in issues where something major happens, I tend to avoid it, but in a regular weekly series I have no problems. That's the rule I've tried to abide by all this time without really realizing, but now that I've put it down in writing, I'm going to make a special effort to employ it. Blackest Night continues to be a "Don't Spoil (too much)" book, because you ALL should be reading it. Wonder Woman? Not so much.

Sidenote: I finally read Siege: Embedded #2. Still maintain my lack of a review didn't really matter much.

Holy crap this was a busy week. And keep in mind Arnab reads almost everything I do plus the stuff he reviews.

Even dead, he saved us

Good day all. So I'm here early this week. I get my comics on Saturdays while I'm in school, time constraints and all that, but I got home today and I just zipped through them. I usually try to space 'em out a bit, but I was in a mood or something.

On that note, I should just add that the comics I read today were all damn good stuff.

Blackest Night #7 ****
Now I normally do not review Blackest Night, only its tie-ins, but like I said, I've been feeling crazy good today. Those of you reading know the history, those of you who aren't reading it, well, ya'll are fools. Now that we know who the fools amongst us are, I'll continue. Was that an action packed book of goodness or what. Seeing as this is my first Blackest Night review, I can't go one sentence further without praising Ivan Reis on the fabulous artwork that has graced these pages. Geoff Johns sure can write, but the artwork has definitely made an equivalent impact. One of the greatest things about comic books, in my opinion (and therefore should be your opinion,) is the symbiosis of art and literature. There aren't too many places where both the artistic and linguistic ability are of importance, and definitely not nearly as much as it is in comics. But I digress. These two men have weaved an amazing story. Not to imply in any way that the authors and artists of Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps have not made also been a crucial aspect to the Blackest Night story.

So I want to do this review, specifically this issue, in a different manner. Instead of commenting on everything that happened, which I will wishfully rely on Matt to do, I will leave you all with questions that I have.

.5. (This one is residual) Who has Parallax?
1. What happened to Scarecrow?
2. What will truly become of the Guardian who has pledged himself to Larfleeze?
3. Who is stuck in the Battery?
4. What role will Dove be playing?
5. If Black is death will White be Birth or Life?
6. Can we stop calling them the Sinestro Corps now?

And if that doesn't entice all you non-readers to reader, I have nothing left for you.

Blackest Night Green Arrow #30 ****
So a fellow comic book lover, also known as Andy my comic book store guy (which reminds me that I was going to do something) expressed that this was his best read of the week. And having read certain unrevealing reviews about Blackest Night 7 (remember I only picked them up today) I thought, hm that's interesting. But I read it, and it was awesome stuff. Gut wrenching, stomach churning, tension building, good stuff. Hence my reviewing it now and not later in my Blackest Night tie-in post.

I'm a fairly recent follower of the Emerald Archer, that's the Green Arrow to all you non-followers, and his entourage (Arsenal, Speedy, Green Lantern the second, and Black Canary.) But what I've read, I have loved. This issue, written by Los Angeles local JT Krul (who I'm told goes to my comic book shop!) was amazing good stuff. If you recall, there have been some really strange tie-ins that felt out place and were just really not good (yes, I'm looking at you especially Doom Patrol). This issue was amazing good stuff. The artwork was done by Diogenes Neves, who I will confess I had not heard of until this moment. That was both my and your loss, because the artwork was great stuff, fantastic stuff. (p.s. just looked him up, he apparently has been doing the art for New Mutants. Now I blame myself for not knowing of him)

As is the fashion of the Blackest Night Tie-Ins following the protagonist who has been recruited by the Black Lantern Corps, in this issue we are privy to the thoughts of the mind-trapped Ollie. The scenes that depicted his interactions with Dinah, Mia, and Connor Hawke were painful to read, emotionally painful. Any writer that is capable of taking a single tie-in issue and make it feel like you're skidding uncontrollably down the street, must be commended. Black Lantern forcing Dinah to relieve Ollie's affairs, forcing Connor to relieve Ollie abandoning him, and making sexually motivated indications to Mia was emotionally draining, in a most excellent way. Pick this one up folks, you won't regret it.

Gotham City Sirens #9 ****
Continuing on with the greatness that is this week in comics. Paul Dini is back on as writer, after taking a break last issue allowing Guillem March take a crack at it, and I'm liking this direction. I fear I may become redundant in saying the artwork in this series has been amazing, but I will continue to praise Guillem for it. His depictions of Harley, Selina, and Pamela are amazing enough to give any other artist a run for their money. And Paul Dini, who is back on next issue for Streets of Gotham (woot) has been doing great stuff wit this series. This mini surrounds a murder mystery, the reintroduction of the Riddler into the story, and Aesop come to life, yes the fables man. The Riddler thinking/talking to himself is great stuff. What I'm also loving about this issue is the gals' attempts at maintaining a quasi normal life. Adopting Hyenas, sparring with Wildcat, and chemically inducing a job approval, yea, normal. I'm not exactly sure how connected Streets of Gotham and Batman are, or how connected Dini and Daniel are, but I'm pretty sure I can see where things are going with the Riddler. It's fairly unfortunate, because I've been liking this Private Eye Edward Nigma.

Batman and Robin #9 ****
This was the culmination to Grant Morrison's very own Blackest Knight. I will admit to two things. I liked this story more than I anticipated I would and I can't stand the way that Morrison has portrayed Dick in this story. This story tied up a couple of loose ends that I had been thinking about, frayed ends that had come about because of Morrison mind you One, was that actually Bruce's body that Superman pulled out of the wreckage? Answer, nope. Who's body was it then? Answer, mind-fucked, crazy clone. The interactions between Dick and Damian are always entertaining, though I'm not particularly fond of the Damian of Batman and Robin. More importantly, I've greatly enjoyed Batman and Robin up through the Red Hood's story and I enjoyed having the Squire back in the mix. However, in this story specifically Morrison turned Dick into this desperate man, that I know him not to be, which is really my only issue.

Tiny Titans #1 ***
I got this free in the mail with a couple orders I made. And how fun is this series. I know it's on number 25 now, I've been meaning to pick that one up but it's no longer in my comic book store, and therefore this is not a "new" issue. But since I just read it, it will be reviewed here. Sometimes it's nice to just read for entertainment's sake. That's exactly what this is. It's fun, filled with short stories, and just pure entertainment. If any of you have kids, you should think about investing in getting them to read this. And for those of you that are still a kid at heart, pick this up for the pure fun of it. Aww Yeah!

Sam's dumb. Remember that time he bought a Rolecks?

Batman 696 ****
I don't know if I've effectively expressed just how much I am enjoying Tony Daniel's existence, so let me take the time to say just how much I am loving his presence in Batman. I've read comments here and there about his writing style and all I've got to say to those kids are, Pop off. The pacing in this issue was brilliant. The constant changing in the plot, switching from the past to the present and then back to the past, coupled with the different locales in each time frame was genius. It kept me on my proverbial toes the entire time. Dick Grayson being drugged, Robin pissed at the world, Oracle stressed over everything (maybe the finality of her words in Batgirl were not so final?), and there was the last scene where Dick came around to figuring out what we've all been wanting to know, Who the F is Black Mask. Great read, coupled with some amazing artwork, c'mon now, what more could a reader ask for.


Streets of Gotham 9 ***
So to reiterate my last review of this series, I'm not particularly sure what purpose these last two issues have had, seeing as they completely break out of the current major story. That being said, there are a couple of issues I had with the issue. The artwork was very good, as I come to expect from Dustin Nguyen. It's really the writing that I hold issue with. Not that it was bad mind you, but that it felt as if Mike Benson was writing a completely different Batman than the rest of Streets of Gotham. And while I understand that different writers have different techniques and styles, but it's one thing to have a different style and another thing to alter the personality of long-standing characters, such as Dick Grayson. All in all not a bad place holder, but I'm ready for Paul Dini to come back and finish up his story. I give this a 3 star rating for two reasons. The art was great and the cover was amazing.

Supernatural 2 ***1/2
I am so glad that I decided to pick this mini-series up. It was on a whim, there was only one issue of issue 1 on the shelf and I snatched it up like a fat kid in a candy store snatches up the good chocolate. This is a such a great show that even though I read the first issue, I wasn't sure that they would be able to maintain the feel of the show, and boy was I wrong. The writing is fun and flows well, the art is pretty cool. The issue are flowing like episodes of the show, each issue having a different villain to take care of, while still maintaining a separate long term goal. I reckon by the end of the mini-series I will be insisting this as a read for Supernatural fans, so why wait. All you fans, this is good stuff. All you non-fans, what are you thinking, read these and then watch the show.

Gashapon Reviews: February 17, 2010

Next week is going to be chock-full of comics, so I'd better get this out today. Two more weekends on this play then I'm finally done.

DC:

Green Lantern #51 (****)

I am exceedingly glad that this Jordan-as-Parallax thing only lasted one issue. It would be far too easy to drag it out for several issues, but they had them come in, do what they needed to do, and get taken away. Clearly Parallax isn't locked away for good, and will be popping up in some future story, but we don't have to deal with it at a time when all I want to see is how this whole BN story wraps itself up. The feeling that nothing will be the same is very palpable, and DC needs to be commended for the epic-ness of this event. I've said it a dozen times, but Marvel had best be taking notes for Second Coming.

Batman never fights to kill!

I'm beginning to sound like a broken record and I don't like it one bit. That being said, I will make a conscious effort to get my reviews out with a more consistent speed. Furthermore, I do have a question for the masses, ha, do my reviews make any impact in what you end up reading? Because in the past I have refrained from giving up too much information on the off chance that upon reading my review the reader may choose to pick up the issue and still have some excitement. Now though, I'm debating just review each issue in it's entirety.

Adventure Comics #7 ****
This is technically a Blackest Night tie-in and as such belongs in my forthcoming Blackest Night tie-ins part 3 review. However, I don't care. Conner has been and continues to be in my top ten favorite of all time, so he gets to bypass said rules. Also, the next issue will be focusing on the Legion of Superheroes, so look out for that.

There's so much to write about this issue I had to start a new paragraph. First and foremost this marks the end of Geoff Johns and Franics Manapul's run with Adventure Comics. Issue 7 is written by Tony Bedard with art by Travis Moore, who in all honestly I have never heard of either, but I must say that I was pleased. It started off with a basic history of who and what Superboy is and has gone through, granted I'm not particularly sure why that was there, but it did show that the writer did have some sense of Superboy's history, which is always nice. Being inside Conner's head the whole time was entertaining, his interaction with Wonder Girl was amusing, and the fact that his pal Krypto came to save him was great, 'cuz I love that dog. I thought the story was great; it was a fairly brilliant way in incorporating Conner's past to save him. And we can thank Rao for that.

Batman and Robin #8 ***
It's weird, pretty much everything I've seen on the internet, which isn't much by the way, talks about how great this story line is. So far, I must say that I enjoyed the previous story better. Not that I think this one is bad or anything, it's actually fairly good. Considering Final Crisis was Grant Morrison's baby, of sorts, it's only natural that he would use it in a pretty awesome way. A rogue, insane, double insane because of the Pit, Batman on the loose? How cool is that. I don't particularly like this desperate Dick that Grant Morrison is painting. I know why he is doing it, but I don't like it and I refuse to like it. Crazy Bats taking on Damian, who has a newly reformed spine? I'm interested, are you?

Batgirl #7 ***1/2
I can't say for sure why this is the case, but I am not particularly fond of Stephanie Brown. Maybe it's because my introduction to her has been recent, even though she's been around for years now, and she seems very annoying. Keeping that in mind, I must say that I have been pleasantly surprised with how I've enjoyed this series since issue 5. Her interactions with Damian is some of the funniest stuff I read. Having Barb around has been awesome (having her around with the rest of the Birds should also be pleasant.) A who can kill Batman first plot is entertaining enough. I just hope that St. Nick does not become a more prominent presence in our lives, and by mine I mean mine, Barbara's and Dick's.

Supernatural #1/6 ****
That's right folks. You heard it right from the source, I am now reading the Supernatural Beginning's End mini-series, and how great it is. those of you who are in the know, know how much I adore this show. It's just one of those shows that I love watching and so I picked this issue up on a whim to see how I'd like it. I've been a tad weary about comics that used to be, or in this case are currently, a show. In this case, I thought it was fabulous. The writers did a a great job capturing the feel, the tone of the show and I thank them for that. The artwork has a great look and feel to it. I can't particularly explain it, but it's got this great rough, graphic, rugged look and feel to it, not soft at all. And I think for this particular series it is very appropriate. I think the plot has a great thing going for it. The lead up to the show is a great story that should be told. I never liked John Winchester for a multitude of reasons, particularly his treatment of his children most specifically Dean. But I mean, smacking Sam? Jackass. Consider me hooked for all 6 issues.


And can I just say, what is up with all the Deadpool variant covers? I like Deadpool just as much as the next guy, but I mean, really?

Gashapon Reviews: February 10, 2010

It's a miracle this got up at all. At least it was a short week.

Marvel:

Dark X-Men #4 (***1/2)
I love anything with Nate Grey. Which I say every month. But watching him manipulate Osborn is tremendous fun. Osborn is clearly off his rocker, and it's nice to see someone call him on that shit. And can I just say "Finally!" as regards Green Goblin showing up. He's been around in the background once or twice, but once that door gets opened there's no going back. And does it seem to anyone else that we have a lot of ends to wrap up between now and the end of the next issue, which is when I thought this whole thing ended? Now if only I could figure out how this whole arc fits into the Siege storyline I'd be a lot happier. Though not as happy as I will be if X-Man sticks around for a bit.

If you need me, just yell. I'll hear you.

Many apologies my faithful, ha, readers. I will make a stronger attempt to make sure my posts come out much sooner.


Red Robin #9 ***
Tim Drake-Wayne is back in Gotham, can I get a hell yes? I've been slightly vocal about my displeasure with Tim being out of town, on his own, not in good terms with Dick, and while everything has not become all fixed and whatnot, this is definitely the step in the right direction. I'm not sure how I feel about Tim getting with Tam Fox, though she is a much better option than Stephanie Brown. Personally I think he should hook up with the Squire (Beryl.) Moving on, I'm only slightly intrigued by Vicki Vale's appearance, as my perception of her (which is a slightly sluttier, ineffective Lois Lang) is not so great. But that being said, I do wonder what is to come of Thomas Elliot's flirtations with her. My favorite part, naturally, was when Conner (with Krypto in tow) made a visit to his BFF Tim. I knew that this was a lead up to Tim and Stephanie taking on Ra's so that wasn't really a surprise. All in all, not bad for a set-up issue.

Smallville - Absolute Justice

I've had a very strange relationship with Smallville. I started watching it long about the time Green Arrow showed up the first time, because I thought Justin Hartley was hot was all the reason I needed to watch a show (although I also liked the Green Arrow costume design). Then to refresh myself with the mythology I went back and watched the first season and intended to watch the second but never got around to it. In the present day (at least present back then) I watched several of the seasons (although I'm not sure exactly which ones) until the time when Doomsday showed up. Not that I lost interest in the show, just that I didn't have enough interest to make time in my busy schedule for it. I've sorta kept up on spoilers, but in general I just don't bother much with it.

Except of course when they have a Justice Society of America episode. Or perhaps it's better to say JSA Event. One of the things I've always loved about Smallville is its examination of Superman canon. Granted that can also be one of the things I don't love about Smallville, especially when they take the canon and run away with it. Not that I've ever been the world's biggest fan of Supes, but you can't set something in a universe and then completely disregard all of the rules of said universe (It amuses me that Chloe is such a popular character yet clearly has to either die or become someone else unless they want to ret-con all of the Supes comics). Whenever there is some big event/episode that brings in other DC characters, I feel a mix of giddy and wary. Not unlike when I go to sento in Japan.

Hawkman's got the bigger weapon, Oliver. And Size Matters.

The basic plot of this story starts off with some villain killing people with ice. Or more to the point the plot starts off with this guy with a glowy staff talks to Chloe, and then gets killed by Ice. We then find out he's not the first or the last. When the next guy dies, JSA gets scrawled across the wall, and we're off on Clark's excellent adventure to find out what JSA means. They connect it to this series of arrests several years earlier, and Clark and Chloe and Arthur just can't understand why these criminals are getting killed off. Clark gets kidnapped only to wake up in the JSA Museum of Memories, and we get to meet all three of the JSA members that are currently alive. I think I have this whole plot slightly out of order, but the most important part is Clark manages to inspire them to fight again. Then we get to see Star Girl, Dr. Fate, and Hawkman in action. The episode ends with Hawkman promising to gather the troops, and vague promisings of seeing each other later.

It's no Hal Jordan, but I'll take it.

A few thoughts:

• Did Michael Shanks attend the Christian Bale School of Superhero Acting? I've met people with voiceboxes that sound less strange.
  
• However he sounded, though, Michael Shanks looks damn good in a set of wings. Even if the wings looked a little funny.
• Star Girl is a ridiculous name for a character.
• I love when the Martian Manhunter shows up.
• I love that Chloe is Watchtower, as long as I completely ignore that Barbara should be Watchtower.
  
• I continuously fail to understand why DC can't loosen up the rights to have Clark meet Bruce Wayne or Diana Prince. I did enjoy all the homages to the other Silver Age heroes, like the Flash and Green Lantern
• As a fanboy, I always love Easter Eggs. Mentioning things like "We were from a Silver Age of Heroes", seeing the cape in Doctor Fate's vision, all that stuff. It would mean nothing to the general public, but I appreciated it immensely.
• I like how we're building up the Justice League, showing them as a family more than a team of superheroes. I think it stems from my wanting Smallville to end and a JLA series to start. How awesome would that be? Too bad it can't happen with the rights issues.
  
• It's amazing how missing two seasons of this show can completely confuse the hell out of me. If it wasn't for the occasional Smallville spoiler I would be completely lost.
  
• Geoff Johns continues to impress.
  

I can't come up with anything snarky enough to truly express how
ridiculous a name I find "Star Girl" to be.

Overall I didn't think it was necessarily a great two hours of TV, but I did enjoy it a great deal. I think they did a very good job of integrating this whole team of heroes while still adhering to canon fairly well. Sure there are little things, like Shiara being dead, but on the whole it was a good outing. It helps that I know next to nothing about the JSA, so any canon misteps would completely fly over my head.

Overall, I'd give the episode four stars. Probably four and a half if you're a big DC comics fan. It's definitely enjoyable, if slightly predictable, and this is coming from someone who could care less about Supes. What did y'all think?

Gashapon Reviews: February 3rd, 2010

You'd think with the disgustingly awesome amount of snow we got this weekend, I'dve been able to finish this even remotely on time. You would be wrong.

P to the S, I am still reading the Buffy comics, but seeing as they're almost over I was going to do just one giant review article once it's finished. I enjoyed this week, and more to the point enjoy that this 'Season 8' is wrapping up, as it's been going on for like 3 years.

DC

Blackest Night: Wonder Woman #3 (***)

So, I love Diana. Wonder Woman is probably my favorite superhero of all time (although Green Lantern has certainly been giving her a run for her money lately). But all this "Love" stuff makes me a little ill. It feels a bit like a giant Sailor Moon episode compressed into a non-manga-comic form. The art didn't bother me (although I could always do with less boob on my heroines) and I've stated numerous time I love the use of color. I'm just not sure I can ascribe to the Love conquers all mentality. I enjoyed the shot of Bruce and Diana, also.

Marvel

Cable #23 (**)

I almost gave this issue three stars because it ended with the words "To be concluded." Watching Hope kick ass is fun, but not enough fun to overcome the painfully obvious stalling that the writers are forced to do. It's the same plot over and over and over, and it's honestly not a plot I was particularly interested in after Messiah War ended. I think I'd really just prefer that Cable had taken a sabbatical until Necrosha and Nation X were over, because these issues are just a waste of good trees, and more importantly my time.

Siege #2 (***)

I was talking with Arnab while reading it, and I had two things to say: "Ewwwwww" and "Holy F&#%!" Now do you see why having the Sentry around is such a terrible huge colossal mistake? I'm enjoying the action, and I enjoy seeing the Avengers coming out of the woodwork to kick ass. I'm curious to see what the fall-out will be with Sentry, and I'm still waiting to figure out how Daken stabbing Osborn fits into the storyline. You can't end an issue with the big baddie getting stabbed, and then have said big-baddie running about in a separate issue.

Siege Embedded #2 ()

I have this open on desk, but I just can't bring myself to read it, no matter how much I like the fat god. I will get to it eventually, but are any of you really holding your breath in anticipation?

Ultimate Comics X #1 (**)

I don't believe the Ultimate universe should really exist (although go them for making Northstar and Colossus gay with each other...before Northstar died (again) that is). I spent a lot of time learning the back-story of all these characters, only to have that back-story completely ignored in favor of rebooting the system to get new fans. Which I don't even think worked. As regards this issue: It's the story of Wolverine's son. Which might be a spoiler if the three claws didn't give it away on the cover. Seeing how big a fan I am of Wolverine, does this sound like the type of story I'd like? And then this kid "Jimmy" is miraculously able to cover his own claws with metal. *Insert blank stare* While I hate Wolvie, half of what could make him interesting was that he was betrayed and experimented on by the government agency he swore to serve. I'm not sure I care to read a story about how a mutant with Wolverine's powers would act if he didn't have Wolverine's past. I shall not be reading any more of this series.

Blacket Night Tie-Ins Part 2b

It's that time of the month folks. I'll give you a second to let that out of your system. This is it, Blackest Night tie-in part 2b. In case you didn't know, you've been waiting for part 2b because they are all January specials. DC decided to revive 8 series' that had previously ended. And here are my reviews. Enjoy.

Suicide Squad #67 **
This issue did next to nothing for me. I did not know anyone. They didn't get me to fall in love with any one of them. The lesbians did surprise me for half of a second and then even that was done with. Word on the street is that this issue leads into the Secret Six, here's hoping that isn't as boring.

Weird Western Tales #71 **1/2
I'm not sure exactly sure what purpose this issue served. I didn't particularly learn much of anything nor did get me excited with a bowlful of giddiness. I did not like the ending, I was bored with the beginning, and let's be honest the middle was just ok.

The Phantom Stranger #42 ****
So I took my weekly trip to my comic book shop and I was immediately told that I needed to read this issue before Green Lantern #50. It was apparently a lead-in of sorts. It was pretty interesting to have Deadman make his reappearance, and I get the feeling that he might be playing a pretty big role in the upcoming days. I mean, with the message he's carrying, it's a good thing he's already dead. And since this is called Phantom Stranger, I should add that I think the magic users of the DC realm are very cool individuals. I originally gave this 3.5 stars, but upon rethinking things I decided it'd better suit the issue to bump it up half a star.

The Power of Shazam! #48 ****
Take this from a guy who doesn't give two hoots about Shazam, this was good. There were a lot of good things about this issue. First, it really got me to care about a guy I didn't even know existed, Amon, let alone know died a while back. Yeah, you didn't read wrong, by the end I cared about a Black Lantern. See, what this issue did, for the first time if I'm not mistaken, is that it gave a Black Lantern a conscience. Now, I'm not sure if I'm just mistaken about his powers, but throughout the issue Amon narrated us through his story of love, loss, betrayal, and topped it all off with a Black Lantern feeling emotions!

Catwoman #83 ****
I love Selina Kyle. There, I said it. Now that that's been established I have to say that this was great. Definitely one of the best of the Revived bunch. The story involving Selina's sister, who is in a mental institute, was just heart breaking. The art was fantastic. And what was especially great was that Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy made a guest appearance. For those of you not in the know, the three of them make up the Sirens, so I loved that the writer incorporated them into this story. Oh, and because I'm awesome and don't want to give away the ending I'll leave you with this, the way they got rid of Black Lantern Black Mask, awesome.

The Atom and Hawkman #46 ****
There were a couple of really good things about this issue, including the art which was great. First, I never really understood Ray's compassion for Jean and I think I judged him for that. I don't anymore. Saving Indigo was not only clutch, it was also pretty damn awesome. And then there was what Indigo was doing that was also major important, in my opinion. It sets things up for a major Blackest Night #7 event. Furthermore, Ray at the very end talking to Indigo got me very interested in what Johns has in store for us. I mean, it is Shiera and Carter's destiny to do so.

The Question #37 ***1/2
These next two issues had one very specific thing in common. They both started off a bit dull but ended with a bang, or the proverbial bang at least. The only encounter I've had with the Question, as an entity not as a type of sentence, was when Renee Montona made a guest appearance in Final Crisis. Let's see, I was amused with Lady Shiva making an appearance, I was disgusted with the old man's role in the story, and I was surprised with how well Renee held her ground while fighting Lady Shiva, suffice to say I think the writer took liberties. Now the ending, that was some pure genius on Shiva's part. I'd tell you what happens but then you'd have not reason to read it. So I'll leave you with this, letting go is sometimes the only answer.

Starman #81 ***1/2
As I said, this one started off iffy, and by start off I should clarify, the first 6 or 7 pages. But before I go any further I have got to say, I loved the artwork, most specifically on page 8. It's not the typical artwork that would normally be found in a comic and it's good stuff. On to the plot. I don't know who The Shade and Hope O'Dare are but I wish them all the best. A couple of pages and here I am rooting for ex-criminal The Shade. Who, I might add, pulled off a grand Buzzinga on the Black Lantern and it was awesome.

He was my brother, my best friend. I had a job to do and I never let him down

Well hell, I'm a full week late on this review post.

Gotham City Sirens #8 ***
So this issue was both written and drawn up by Guillem March. Who, those of you with a good memory might remember, I've been absolutely giddy over with regards to his past artwork for Gotham City Sirens. Poison Ivy is probably my least favorite of the three Sirens, and as a result I probably didn't give this review 4 stars. All in all it was a decent issue for Guillem's first shot at writing.

Batman and Robin #7 ****
Blackest Knight. What can I say, this looks like it is gearing up to be a great series. I know people have had serious problems with Grant Morrison's writing in the past, but I feel overall he's done some really good stuff with this issue and series. I don't particularly care for his take on Damian, but that kid irks me so often anyway. I'm definitely intrigued about who this "Batman" is that has been resurrected via a Lazarus Pit. Plus there's the whole Damian having reconstructive spinal surgery, and by that I mean he had his whole spine removed, fixed, and then replaced. Oh to be rich. I also really enjoy Squire and am kinda hoping for a little Tim/Beryl love. I don't know much about this Batwoman, but she seems like a bore and freak all rolled up into one. I'll eventually freshen up on her.

Superman Secret Origins #4 ***
The issue was ok. The weird purple guy that tried to give Clark a hickie, absolutely disgusting. Perry pissing of Lex was amusing and entertaining. In my opinion, and let's face it this is all my opinion, the best part was the interaction between Jimmy Olsen and Superman, yes Superman not Clark. First Supes thinking Jimmy was about to commit suicide, absolutely hilarious. Them having a touching moment afterwards, great. Jimmy taking a picture of Superman in his world famous hands on the hips pose, priceless. Or gag worthy, you decide.

World's Finest #4 ***1/2
Not the spectacular finish I was hoping for, but still pretty good. Superman coming to save the day all the time will never cease to irritate me, but that's old news. Dick and Clark's first team up, successful. Or is it? Damian calling Stephanie Brown Fatgirl, hilarious. I am actually wondering where this Toyman plot will jump to, my guess is the War of Supermen. We'll see.

New Avengers #61 ***
So this was a strange issue for me. I'm not a regular reader of the New Avengers series, so bare with me. The writing was good enough. I don't know, I really enjoyed Bendis' writing on House of M and I'm thinking that I might end up liking Siege a whole lot more when everything is all said and done. Now on to the art. I've rarely ever enjoyed an issue that has multiple pencilers and multiple colorists. That being said I thought that the penciling was pretty good, granted I enjoyed one penciler more than the other. However, I did not like both colorists. One, in my opinion was far superior to the other. I enjoyed the Captain Americas story better than the Spiders, mainly because their awkward flirtations made me feel weird. Although, I will admit to being fairly amused with Spidey.

Avengers Initiative #32 ***1/2
So being that for the longest time the only thing Marvel I read surrounded the X-verse I did not know 90% of the people in this. However, I found that it was still enjoyable. Taskmaster, who reminded me of Skeletor (from He-Man), as pretty interesting. Although, I did find myself more interested in Diamondback, Constrictor, and Justice. It will be interesting to see what happens at Camp H.A.M.M.E.R. and what comes of Diamondback.

One Will Rise...

Who needs subtlety when you've got ugly art?