Invincible

[LouFerignoDemon]

IMO Kirkman should move his comic to darkhorse, and also get a cartoon series on TV, to increase popularity.


I dunno about the cartoon. Image is pretty much the only company that'll let someone pretty much do what they want. Stations tend to demand a lot of control to ensure ratings.

[Eros]

Just out of curiosity Eros, how often do you read non-Marvel/DC books?


well Im currently reading Buffy the vampire slayer season 8 from Darkhorse, so that would be the first Non-Marve/Dc title I have read in long while.

[Elijya]

Buffy is currently the #1 monthly non-Marvel/DC title. Issue Number 3 placed 12th on the diamond list with sales of over 100,000. As far as I know, this is the first time a Dark Horse comic has done that since... well, possibly ever, I'm not sure, I can't think of any other DH book that's sold anywhere NEAR that.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

yup. Came out last weekwell i got it today

[Dread]

To bump, here is the early solict for October's issue #47, from Comics Continuum.com:



http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0707/17/invincible47.jpg

INVINCIBLE #47

Written by Robert Kirkman, art and cover by Ryan Ottley and Bill Crabtree. story ROBERT KIRKMAN

Tether Tyrant and Magmaniac return! After months on the run, these two dastardly villains have decided to make their move. Unfortunately for our hero, he's in the wrong place at the wrong time. Invincible is in for the fight of his life -- and this is just a bump in the road on the way to the status-quo-altering events of the big issue 50 in a few short months!

32 pages, $2.99, in stores on Oct. 17.

Interesting, as in one of his letters pages, Kirkman noted that Titan would be returning eventually.

[Phoney Bone]

Yay! Tether Tyrant!

[Elijya]

Invincible manages to have a rogues gallery full of awesome guys who have never actually done anything awesome

[LouFerignoDemon]

Battle Beast.

[Phoney Bone]

Invincible manages to have a rogues gallery full of awesome guys who have never actually done anything awesome

I know. They've been in all of one issue so far, and got beat up by Invincibe and Titian. Well Battle Beast didn't, but, yeah somehow with that being all they've done in the series so far, we like them so much.
I hope this cover signifies the reappearance of the "mob" storyline. Get us some more Titan, and more importantly, more Isotope!
And I hope Battle Beast isn't back. He probably isn't. He left all stuck-up.

[Dread]

Bumping with a review of issue #44. Heavy spoilers.

INVINCIBLE #44: Man, it is weird seeing a Viltrumite besides Mark without a moustache, even if it is a woman. It's another simple cover from Ottley (whose art continues to be awesome) and another great issue from Kirkman. Everyone who reads it knows what I am talking about, and it seems ever week someone on SHH discovers it for themselves (I can relate to people who "caught up" via trades or whatnot and then having to make the shift from reading tens of issues at once to having to wait a few weeks for every 22 page installment; Invincible will make you an addict, but in a good way). Kirkman manages to delve into the Eve/Mark "will they/won't they" romance and use a wrinkle that even I didn't see coming; Mark mentions the time-travle stuff and it BACKFIRES. Now Eve isn't sure whether his feelings are genuine. Talk about a romantic twist that could only happen in a superhero comic! However, the Viltrumite affair, re-introduced back into Mark's life by Allen's visit last month, comes to a head here, as we meet a female member of their race. At first she runs the risk of "estrogen syndrome", i.e. being more merciful or understanding simply because she is a woman and the cliche is women are "nicer", but the end of the issue blows that to hell, which felt appropriate, so I approve. One thing that does get slightly irksome is that Kirkman isn't usually quick to name these Viltrumites that show up; out of the trio that popped up back some 15-20 issues ago (who roughed up Allen and battled Nolan & Mark), only one actually had a name (Lucan, the bald black guy), and this gal goes through that process. I'm not sure if it is deliberate, as Kirkman doesn't name certain characters who are expendable (as the trio were), but I doubt she is so hopefully she gets a name next issue. I did like how Kirkman played around with her, keeping us guessing as to whether she was "for real" or not. At first she acts all war-mongerish, then tries to sympathize with Invincible and even is impressed by his strength and dedication, before fighting him anyway at the end. Considering that Viltrumites live for thousands of years, Mark, at 18-19 years old, is almost a baby compared to some veteran warriors (I'd imagine) and it explains how some of his species, despite being foes, are impressed by his might. The pair also team up to stop a sea monster (does this mean later adventures with the Merman race again?) and saving an ocean cruiser. Invincible has improved over his earlier issues but lifting something THAT huge is still more than he can do alone (real world fact; cruise ships can weigh anywhere from 40,000 to over 50,000 tons). The last time Mark fought one of his own kind, he needed Nolan to carry him, and the cover of the next issue implies that Allen may end up saving his bacon. At this rate, Mark may need to pull-a-Goku and train in advanced gravity for a while. This book is always reliable for an enjoyably superhero universe, and I really can't praise it enough. Some of the letters Kirkman gets, however, are mind-boggling in how naive they are. One writer actually CRITICIZED Kirkman for being "tacky" with the $1.99 issue two months ago. Dude, are you retarded!? INVINCIBLE is an Image book, which owns less than 5% of the market share; they're outsold by DARK HORSE. It sells within the Top 130's-150's of the Top 200, which may be fine for Image, but isn't even a glimmer in the eyes of Quesada or DiDio. How the hell can anyone blame Kirkman for what he does to promote his flagship solo effort? Hell, I'd even accept a hologram cover. And last month we had a writer who claimed Invincible would sell better if Kirkman "didn't take the Lord's name in vain" in dialogue. Considering how many people in the actual industry seem to fail to "get it", sometimes these letters almost shock me by how ignorant some fans are. Ironic, huh, that I post on the Internet yet need a letters page to make me realize that sometimes. Least Kirkman has noted sales for the book slowly improving, least in it's own respect. In some alternate reality, this book sells over 100k and is in the Top 10 like it deserves, and that is a reality I'd like to visit. This is my holy grail of comic titles, and I doubt it could ever outright displease me. Some issues are better than others, but I doubt I will ever absolutely hate an issue of this. It's too solid, too action packed, dramatic, poignant, with good dialogue and manages twists even in the age of cynicism and "having seen it all" fanboyism. Take the cover at face value; it is probably the best superhero comic in the universe. Can't wait to see Allen bust some heads next ish. Not too many characters can blend "calm/laid back" with "bad-ass", but Allen does.

[ihateusernames]

You know, every issue I read of this just gets better and better, but, I wish I just collecte the trades.

It seems I open the book, enjoy it so much, and then it's finished, when I read the first 4 trades to catch up on it, they lasted a whole lot longer, and felt like an hour long tv show insted of a 20 minute cartoon.

the cover for the october issue looks ****ing awsome.

[Dread]

You know, every issue I read of this just gets better and better, but, I wish I just collecte the trades.

It seems I open the book, enjoy it so much, and then it's finished, when I read the first 4 trades to catch up on it, they lasted a whole lot longer, and felt like an hour long tv show insted of a 20 minute cartoon.

the cover for the october issue looks ****ing awsome.

I understand the feeling. I read the first two HC's and trades #6 & 7 to catch up to the monthlies, and going from reading 6-14 issues in one sitting to 22 pages a month can be jarring at times. But I've never regretted it.

Every issue to me looks ****ing awesome. ;)

[ihateusernames]

Really?
some of the latest covers have been a little lack luster, like the "low low price!" one, and the parade one.

Honestly though, I don't care about the covers, I'm not complaing because I know the stories inside are what count.
It's my favourite book, next to Runaways.

[Erzengel]

Finally read #44.

Enjoyed the Mark/Eve will they/won't they angle.

Also interesting seeing the female Viltrumite. Can't wait to see how Allen joins the fight. :up:

[The_Mystery]

Y'know, I picked up the first trade of Invincible early last year. Then I bought the next one...and the next...then the individual issues...DAMMIT KIRKMAN!!! I was tryin' to cut down on books.


Stupid quality comic book :(

[Erzengel]

My friend got me into it.

He leant me like the first 2 tpbs.

Then I borrowed the next 3.

And then the next 2.

Then I started buying individual ones.

I think I might have to ebay the first 7 tpbs. :o

[Anubis]

Or just Ebay the Omnibus

[Upset Spideyfan]

Yeah it took me a while to get all the trades and everything (I'm not a fan of big hulking volumes) but it is so worth the effort.

[Dread]

It definately is.

#45 is next week, at least according to Diamond. Nice to see new fans here, too.

[Anubis]

We get a new one every month.

[Dread]

We get a new one every month.

Hopefully one day INVINCIBLE will sell within the Top 100 again, like it more than deserves to. :dry:

[Anubis]

A man can dream.

[Upset Spideyfan]

Nice to see new fans here, too.

I've been disappointed by the smaller companies in the past (especially Image) so these days I rarely venture forth from Marvel and DC, who ironically enough have also let me down pretty badly in the past as well but they're "iconic" I suppose so that's that.

Eventually, I started to feel like I was missing out after seeing everybody raving and raving about this book (and I was) so I decided what the hell, I've read House of M, what's the worst that could happen?

What struck me was that it really felt like Kirkman tapped into the same creative energy that Stan, Kirby and Ditko did when they created the Marvel Universe. It really made me go and say "Wow, this is something special".

I wasted no time getting my younger brother hooked on this thing.

[Dread]

I've been disappointed by the smaller companies in the past (especially Image) so these days I rarely venture forth from Marvel and DC, who ironically enough have also let me down pretty badly in the past as well but they're "iconic" I suppose so that's that.

Eventually, I started to feel like I was missing out after seeing everybody raving and raving about this book (and I was) so I decided what the hell, I've read House of M, what's the worst that could happen?

What struck me was that it really felt like Kirkman tapped into the same creative energy that Stan, Kirby and Ditko did when they created the Marvel Universe. It really made me go and say "Wow, this is something special".

I wasted no time getting my younger brother hooked on this thing.

Very nice.

Yeah, I can understand some hesitancy to try a comic outside the comfort zone of the "Big Two", especially as Image has that 90's stereotype of over-the-top art and technobabble cliches to live down. But these days two of my favorite superhero titles are Image books (INVINCIBLE and DYNAMO 5).

Heh, yeah, HOUSE OF M really lowered the bar for many of us.

[The_Mystery]

You guys need to go to Comic Book resources.com and check out the cover for Invincible #50. Wow...just...wow.

[Upset Spideyfan]

Yeah I just saw it. Wow.

It looks like Invincible is going to turn against the government because of they're support the Reani-men (I know I did that wrong) project.

If that's the case, his life is about to change dramatically. Really looking forward to this one.

[The_Mystery]

Yeah I just saw it. Wow.

It looks like Invincible is going to turn against the government because of they're support the Reani-men (I know I did that wrong) project.

If that's the case, his life is about to change dramatically. Really looking forward to this one.

I would give alot of credit to Kirkman if he changed the status quo from what it is now to Invincible being considered a traitor and outed by the Government. That would take some serious brass balls.

[Dread]

I just saw it as well. It naturally looks like a logical culmination, and that is part of the appeal of the book, that as popular as the character and his status quo is, it can change as Kirkman desires, but he does it in ways that make sense. I mean, all of us were wowed when within the first year (or HC vol. 1), Invincible changed so dramatically. It helps make the book.

Can't wait.

I mean, how often can the good times last?

[PWN3R]

Scary. Mark actually looks quite terrifying in that. Emotionless. Cold.

:heart:!

[Upset Spideyfan]

I think there has to be a shakeup of this sort for Invincible to continue to grow. His personal life has clearly become aimless. He and Amber mutually ended their relationship, he screwed things up with Eve and quite honestly it seemed as if he was only going after as sort of a consolation prize, his education has stalled and he's really not interested in continuing it any further.

He's got some desire to go and find the things his dad talked about in his novels but outside of that Mark's lost direction. This should change all of that quite nicely.

[Dread]

I think there has to be a shakeup of this sort for Invincible to continue to grow. His personal life has clearly become aimless. He and Amber mutually ended their relationship, he screwed things up with Eve and quite honestly it seemed as if he was only going after as sort of a consolation prize, his education has stalled and he's really not interested in continuing it any further.

He's got some desire to go and find the things his dad talked about in his novels but outside of that Mark's lost direction. This should change all of that quite nicely.

Exactly. The appeal of the book is that it CAN change and thus avoid running on spin cycle for decades like too many Big Two franchises that essentially rinse, reuse, and recycle mostly the same angles over and over.

[Upset Spideyfan]

I'm still trying to figure out angle Kirkman is trying to play with Invincible's younger brother. Is he going to die? Is he going to become a friend or foe? The cynic in me is leaning to the latter just because I can't see him letting Mark's life become easy by having backup like that in his corner.

I'm sure Cecil's keeping a close eye on that kid.

[Dread]

I'm still trying to figure out angle Kirkman is trying to play with Invincible's younger brother. Is he going to die? Is he going to become a friend or foe? The cynic in me is leaning to the latter just because I can't see him letting Mark's life become easy by having backup like that in his corner.

I'm sure Cecil's keeping a close eye on that kid.

Any option is better than death. Killing Oliver would be a waste of potential, and Kirkman rarely does that.

However, a possible conflict between Invincible and a shady government may shake some of his beliefs to their core, which may be bad if the Viltrumite empire starts nosing around.

I look forward to seeing this develop into 2008.

[Upset Spideyfan]

However, a possible conflict between Invincible and a shady government may shake some of his beliefs to their core, which may be bad if the Viltrumite empire starts nosing around.



Certainly. I think Mark has obviously been naive so far, his world view a little bit too simplistic and narrow when compared to the role that he's taken on. I expect Kirkman to certainly touch on that in the near future.

On a quasi-related note I got the Astounding Wolf-Man today, haven't gotten around to reading it yet but certainly am looking forward to it.

[Dread]

Certainly. I think Mark has obviously been naive so far, his world view a little bit too simplistic and narrow when compared to the role that he's taken on. I expect Kirkman to certainly touch on that in the near future.

On a quasi-related note I got the Astounding Wolf-Man today, haven't gotten around to reading it yet but certainly am looking forward to it.

It certainly has been a while since Mark's value system has been shaken to the core, at least in a way about as large as the one with his father.

Besides, he's sometimes done things without Cecil's permission, including the adventure that brough Oliver to Earth in the first place. He's torn between the two heritages, and his "Viltrumite Temper" has flared up at times. :p He's spent a while easily working with a government that seemingly had no dark underbelly so it is about time that view was challenged.

Thankfully, Mark at least has a good mother and friends to support him. Right?

Wolf-Man has been great so far. I've enjoyed it a bit. It is a nice blend of horror and superhero action.

[Dread]

The last issue came out, so it gets a review repost bump. Spoilers!

INVINCIBLE #45: The ride to the pivotal issue 50 continues here and in a way the anticipation for the issue from the cover, solicts, and cliffhanger was better than the issue itself, which is mostly about developping the clash to come. But that's not a bad thing. The Lady Viltrumite, who still doesn't have a name (Kirkman seems to have a bad habit of not naming them) tries to make her point with Mark, who actually jokes with her after a bodyslam, Spidey-style. Either because of her personal philosophy, or the fact that the Viltrumite Empire is stretched thin as is, she doesn't waste Invincible and allows him to live, telling him that if he doesn't comply within a period of 5 months to 5 years, his replacement will, erm, replace him. Her ship happens to pass Allen, on his way home from Earth, when he turns being noticed into an advantage to explore the Viltrimute prison (and presumably scout potential allies to use against them). In a subtle way his new physical prowess is showcased; Invincible was no challenge to her, but Allen was able to clearly rock her and draw blood, and merely faked losing consciousness from her haymaker. Back at home, Mark talks to his mother and William again, losing more interest in college and settling into a preferred life of being a government paid superhero for the rest of his life. Even without some of those WIZARD sneak peaks, you can easily tell that the status quo of the book is being due for a rock. The moment Cecil chose to secretly employ the Reanimen creator behind Invincible's back (who naturally was appalled at his lack for value of human life, much less hurting his friends), that line was drawn and a showdown over it was inevitable. Kirkman is timing it for his 50th issue and I can see the simple logic of that. Of course the great thing about this book as it is creator owned so it can change. Will Mark turn his back on humanity and begin to side with the Viltrumites over Cecil's sins? Or will both sides merely end up creating a far more independant Invincible (and possibly other heroes who may agree with him?). Plus, you know the Mark/Eve situation is due for more exploration. The book is a universe unto itself and yet in the old school fashion it has REMAINED one good book, rather than, say, the Global Guardians in one book, and Allen in another, linked by endless crossover like the Big Two, commercially locked in cyclical stories. This book has a freedom many mainstream superheroes lack and uses it for great effect. Ottely's art seemed rushed in places, or at least sometimes his figures seemed "gummier" than usual, but it wasn't by much and it wasn't a major issue. The more issues of Invincible that ship, the better, and Ottley's their core artist. What makes the book tick is ramfications and reactions, the sense that everything that happens will be touched upon and explored as it moves along, and every story leaves many threads for further stories. I can't wait to see this story develop and then explode in a climax. Yet there never will be sense of bridges so burnt that they can't make for even more compelling stories that feel very organic. INVINCIBLE is my favorite book, and hardly anything comes close.

[Upset Spideyfan]

Seeing Allen kick some Viltrumite ass was a welcome change of pace to the usual beat downs that they hand out. :)

Apparently, now he's MUCH stronger than them, I mean he schooled her silly.

And Mark's right. He needs to start working out more.

[Dread]

Seeing Allen kick some Viltrumite ass was a welcome change of pace to the usual beat downs that they hand out. :)

Apparently, now he's MUCH stronger than them, I mean he schooled her silly.

And Mark's right. He needs to start working out more.

My friend Mixairian has been wondering when Mark will start training in an enhanced gravity chamber like in DBZ. :p

He does need to work out more, it seems he focused on speed more than strength, which is useful, but added cuts won't hurt.

Allen's a tank. :)

It looks like Omni-Man may be willing to fight against the empire if given the chance. Although I wonder what may happen if the Viltrumites figure out Mark isn't the only one of them in his family. Oliver may not be the "pinnacle" of their blend (the Mantis people were not as compatable as humans), but as they are "stretched thin" they may reconsider...:csad:

[Elijya]

(Why is Mixie's name bolded? :confused:)

[Dread]

(Why is Mixie's name bolded? :confused:)

I do that when I mention a SHH poster, for some reason.

[Erzengel]

Just picked up #45.

I really wish these issues were longer. It always leaves me wanting more.

I think I miss my wife.

[Upset Spideyfan]

Then why are you posting here? :confused:


Ba-Dum Pssssh!

[Artistsean]

Can anyone tell me if Science Dog has had his origin story actually shown in the comics?

[Anubis]

I believe so, but I forgot what issue it was in, or what it was exactly for that matter. I think he's an actual dog, just super smart. (Or was that Ceasar from Top Ten?)

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

I'm just curious, I'm a bit behind on the series. Around issue 34 right now and am wondering how it is going? Still as good as it ever was?

[Anubis]

yup.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Sweet :up:

[Dread]

I'm just curious, I'm a bit behind on the series. Around issue 34 right now and am wondering how it is going? Still as good as it ever was?

Yes, and with the lead up to issue #50 and what comes beyond, it may even get better. :wow:

[GoldenAgeHero]

Exactly. The appeal of the book is that it CAN change and thus avoid running on spin cycle for decades like too many Big Two franchises that essentially rinse, reuse, and recycle mostly the same angles over and over.


well lets see what happens to invincible after 40+ years in production, if kirkman goes that long...


anyways i wonder what kirk has planned out for oliver, maybe he'll team up with his big bro in whatever descsion he makes in issue 50.

[Dread]

well lets see what happens to invincible after 40+ years in production, if kirkman goes that long...


anyways i wonder what kirk has planned out for oliver, maybe he'll team up with his big bro in whatever descsion he makes in issue 50.

Don't make it too hard to be a jaded fan for me. :dry:

I'm not sure how Oliver will fit in with the big #50. Maybe his innocence helps keep Invincible from going TOO far over after the feeling of moral betrayal from Cecil? Who knows. I just hope the kid sticks around a bit.

[Dread]

Newsarama reports that Atom Eve is getting her own 2-part mini from Image to explain her origin, called INVINCIBLE PRESENTS: ATOM EVE. Written by Benito Cereno, art by Nate Bellegarde, and editted by Kirkman himself (much as he edits THE BRIT).

http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=128655

I'll definately get it. I wonder if this means other characters may get the treatment? Allen seems like an eventual no-brainer. And maybe the hope of that Science Dog comic for some ain't as nil as expected.

They also had some minor news about INVINCIBLE that is already known:


-Moving to Invincible, Keatinge said that Robert Kirkman has been setting elements up since the beginning that will be coming to a head for issue #50. Val Staples will be coloring the series beginning with issue #48, and the cover to #50 shows Mark standing over a bloody Cecil.

New colorist, eh?

[Superman_]

I love this book but sometimes wish they would give The Guardians of the Globe their own book. Because even though I know Invincible (Mark) TGOTG are in this book an awful lot. I know they probably wouldn't really have a to successful solo/team book but I do think they need to cut back on how often they are in this series.

[Dread]

I personally like the fact that so many characters are in INVINCIBLE besides Mark. It feels like an entire universe in one book, which reminds me of times way back when good books were just that; ONE GOOD BOOK, before the age of everyone trying to branch out and have a "line" of comics.

That said, the occasional mini doesn't hurt, especially for an origin.

[PhotoJones]

Yeah, the first issue of the Brit ongoing was all aces. I'd be down for a Guardians of the Globe mini or ongoing. :up:

[Dread]

Yeah, the first issue of the Brit ongoing was all aces. I'd be down for a Guardians of the Globe mini or ongoing. :up:

THE BRIT is different, he started out before INVINCIBLE or around the same time, didn't he? Kirkman just intermingled him like he has for most of his Image characters, like Tech Jacket and whatnot. THE BRIT was a seperate thing that crossed over, not the same as a mini about one of Mark's supporting characters.

But, I'm buying Eve's story so no biggie.

[PhotoJones]

I'm totally getting this shirt:


http://images.comicbookresources.com/solicits/imagecomics/122007/invincible_cast_t-shirt.jpg

[Elijya]

THE BRIT is different, he started out before INVINCIBLE or around the same time, didn't he? Kirkman just intermingled him like he has for most of his Image characters, like Tech Jacket and whatnot. THE BRIT was a seperate thing that crossed over, not the same as a mini about one of Mark's supporting characters.

But, I'm buying Eve's story so no biggie.

Sorry to be technical, but there's no "the", it's just Brit. Brit is his real name

[PhotoJones]

Brittany, to be even more technical.

[Elijya]

didn't want to spoil it

[PhotoJones]

It's nothing you won't learn from a quick glance at the Wiki. Besides, he's not going to read it anyway. :whatever:

[Elijya]

Who, Dread? Why wouldn't he?

[Dread]

I should get more comic related T-shirts. They just usually are $20 a pop and I spend that money elsewhere.

Here is a solict for December's INVINCIBLE #49. Spoilers!

http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0709/19/imagedec.htm

[PhotoJones]

Hmm...that solicit for Brit makes me wonder if Brit is really dead. It'd be interesting if the series was really about Brit's sister. I wonder if Kirkman has the balls to do that. Create a solo ongoing, kill the star in the first issue and continue on without him. Stupid or ballsy?

[Dread]

Hmm...that solicit for Brit makes me wonder if Brit is really dead. It'd be interesting if the series was really about Brit's sister. I wonder if Kirkman has the balls to do that. Create a solo ongoing, kill the star in the first issue and continue on without him. Stupid or ballsy?

I don't know.

Least at Image he can afford to be ballsy and have a comic ship a #13. :o

[PhotoJones]

Huh? I think I missed the reference. :(

[Dread]

Huh? I think I missed the reference. :(

Eric O'Grady was original. Some could say Ballsy. Look where that got Kirkman.

At Image, he has more freedom without the fear of a cutoff after a year.

[PhotoJones]

Oh. Heh, yeah.

:(

[Dread]

To stay on topic, the solict for #49 seems to hint that Invincible's relationship with the government may cave in before the climatic issue 50...:wow:

[PhotoJones]

I wouldn't doubt it. Cecil's keeping more than a few things from Mark.

[Dread]

I wouldn't doubt it. Cecil's keeping more than a few things from Mark.

I am curious as to how some of the other heroes may react. I mean I am sure not all of them would side with Cecil if they found out about some underhanded stuff. Right?

I mean the more gov't affiliated types like Brit, Rex Splode, and so on would. But there would have to be one who may be appalled about the Reanimen thing.

[PhotoJones]

Brit's not one to blindly side with his government.

[Dread]

Very well then.

[PhotoJones]

I don't think it's been discussed, but what does everyone think about Bill Crabtree leaving the book? Most people don't glance at the colorist's name or even know who they are, but there's a pretty big difference in the way Crabtree colors the book and in the way we've seen the incoming Val Staples color the book. Me personally, I'd rather see Crabtree continue on with it. His colors are superb.

[Capes-Crusader]

Has anyone heard any more news on the Invicible movie?

I've found a guy who could play Mark.

Here is a link to my post in misc. comic films: http://forums.superherohype.com/showthread.php?t=284766

Tell me what you think?

[Dread]

I don't think it's been discussed, but what does everyone think about Bill Crabtree leaving the book? Most people don't glance at the colorist's name or even know who they are, but there's a pretty big difference in the way Crabtree colors the book and in the way we've seen the incoming Val Staples color the book. Me personally, I'd rather see Crabtree continue on with it. His colors are superb.

I agree.

[GoldenAgeHero]

what do you guys think on the future of invinicble? definite ongoing or has an ultimate end?

[Anubis]

What do you mean?

[GoldenAgeHero]

like does robert plan on making it an ongoig , is the comic going to be published for the forseable future or does robert have a definite ending for the comic? like rising stars or planetary.

[PhotoJones]

I'm pretty sure it's an indefinite ongoing.

[Dread]

like does robert plan on making it an ongoig , is the comic going to be published for the forseable future or does robert have a definite ending for the comic? like rising stars or planetary.

Kirkman has gotten asked that in some letter pages and he usually replies with some answer of, "I wouldn't want the book to last forever but I probably wouldn't get tired of it until after 300 issues or something", or words to that effect.

So, I doubt Kirkman has a set limit in mind. He'll keep writing it so long as he can, much like Erik Larson's SAVAGE DRAGON.

[Anubis]

That books pushin 200 at this point.

[PhotoJones]

For anyone that missed it the first time around, Newsarama put up the entire first issue for Brit #1.

http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=130785

[GoldenAgeHero]

can't say i like that issue,i really want to like this book, i like kirckman's invincible alot, kinda dissapointed that he's not writing this. the dialogue doesn't grab like kirk's does. I'll give issue 2 a shot tho.

[Anubis]

I didn't think issue 1 was all that good either, but 2 was much better.

[GoldenAgeHero]

just read issue 2, loads better then 1. hopefully some cool supporting characters will be added soon.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Just read up to issue 38, I know I am a bit behind. But damn, was I glad that Mark beat the hell out of Armstrong Livingston and killed him

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Kirkman has gotten asked that in some letter pages and he usually replies with some answer of, "I wouldn't want the book to last forever but I probably wouldn't get tired of it until after 300 issues or something", or words to that effect.

So, I doubt Kirkman has a set limit in mind. He'll keep writing it so long as he can, much like Erik Larson's SAVAGE DRAGON.

With a comic like this after 45 issues I couldn't imagine this getting boring or bad or not as good until at least issue 100. I've never enjoyed reading a comic run so much. I look forward to every issue and try to fall behind 10 issues or so, that way when I read one I don't have to wait for a month or so for a new one to come out.

But now that I am all caught up...well I'm screwed because once the new issue comes out, there is no way I am not reading it right away. I say as long as the series stays well written Kirkman should keep doing it.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Oh...and does it get any better than Allen The Alien?

[Dread]

Oh...and does it get any better than Allen The Alien?

Rarely. Yeah, Allen is very cool.

INVINCIBLE has a little world unto itself and many cool characters besides the star.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Rarely. Yeah, Allen is very cool.

INVINCIBLE has a little world unto itself and many cool characters besides the star.

Yeah I like all of the additional stories and how they seem to all come together.

[Superman_]

I personally just want to see Mark and Eve end up together. I like Eve much better then Amber.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

They will eventually. But there was nothing wrong with Amber, she was one tough chick to have to put up with all of that and she was really into Mark. His dilema is understandable.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

When does issue 46 come out?

[PhotoJones]

Just read up to issue 38, I know I am a bit behind. But damn, was I glad that Mark beat the hell out of Armstrong Livingston and killed him

Haha...."Armstrong Livingston." It's Angstrom Levy. ;)

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Haha...."Armstrong Livingston." It's Angstrom Levy. ;)

Yeah...well it doesn't matter now....or does it....?

[Roughneck]

I love this book but I am a little choked because I discovered it late....so when i first staarted reading it I got to read through six Trades.....now I have to wait for the next trade all the time....I really should start getting this monthly.

[Dread]

I love this book but I am a little choked because I discovered it late....so when i first staarted reading it I got to read through six Trades.....now I have to wait for the next trade all the time....I really should start getting this monthly.

I know what that feels like. I caught up via the 2 HC's and two trades and then the move to 22 pages monthly can be jarring. But you adjust. :D

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

I love this book but I am a little choked because I discovered it late....so when i first staarted reading it I got to read through six Trades.....now I have to wait for the next trade all the time....I really should start getting this monthly.

What issue are you up to Rough?

[Roughneck]

Uh....the 8th TPB, so issue 41...I think

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Uh....the 8th TPB, so issue 41...I think

Ah, so you're not that far behind at all. :up:

Let me know if you need issues 42-45 :up:

[Roughneck]

Nah....I might keep going on Trades for now.....when will 9 be coming out?

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

No idea

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

So I'm curious. Allen the Alien, so it seems he gets stronger after he has a near death experience. Was this the only time? Or is it possibly he can continue to become stronger and more powerful?

[Dread]

So I'm curious. Allen the Alien, so it seems he gets stronger after he has a near death experience. Was this the only time? Or is it possibly he can continue to become stronger and more powerful?

So far, that was the only time. However, he has said to Mark that after a beating like that, little else likely can kill him.

He is stronger than many lone Viltrumites now.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

So far, that was the only time. However, he has said to Mark that after a beating like that, little else likely can kill him.

He is stronger than many lone Viltrumites now.

So are we to assume that little can kill Viltrumites? Actually I guess that was a stupid question. It makes sense if they are conquering planets.

So Allen is basically at the top of the totem pole now?

Sweet :up:

Hey has anyone seen the covers to issues 46-50?

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Issue 46 Cover
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b81/spazz_hero/invincible46.jpg

Issue 47 Cover
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b81/spazz_hero/Invincible47.jpg

Issue 48 Cover
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b81/spazz_hero/invincible48.jpg

Issue 49 Cover
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b81/spazz_hero/Invincible49.jpg

And, I knew this was coming......

Issue 50 Cover
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b81/spazz_hero/Invincible50.jpg

[Dread]

So are we to assume that little can kill Viltrumites? Actually I guess that was a stupid question. It makes sense if they are conquering planets.

So Allen is basically at the top of the totem pole now?

Sweet :up:

Hey has anyone seen the covers to issues 46-50?

I've seen the covers before, but thanks for putting them in one handy post. Issue #46 may be running a week or two behind, which has happened frequently. Kirkman has admitted that each issue, from start to finish takes about 6-7 weeks to be written, drawn, inked and colored (and they just changed colorists to boot), so this essentially is nearly a bimonthly depending on lead-in time. Always worth the wait, though.

As for more Allen discussion:
Allen personally stated that he is stronger than Invincble now and in the last issue, took a haymaker from a female Viltrumite who was perhaps twice Invincible's strength (or at least stronger; he was huffing and puffing after trying to life an ocean liner, and she was fine. Mark claimed she'd "done all the work" in lifting it) and fiegned unconsciousness, while a blow from him made her bleed.

The three Viltrumites who tried to assassinate him (only one, the black one, was named; Lucan) were all strong enough to challenge Nolan on the Mantis Planet. Apparently Allen is a sort of Ubermench; whatever doesn't kill him makes him physically stronger & more durabile after a period of recovery.

As for what can kill Viltrumites, that is still unknown, although they can die from enough blunt trauma in combat; just depending on their power level, it varies. They live for thousands of years; Mark, at 18-19, could be considered a "baby" in terms of their lifespans yet for the age his strength has impressed some. Nolan wrote about planets & objects that were seen as threats to the Viltrumites in his sci-fi novels, which he told Mark to read and Allen scanned. One was a sort of disintegrator gun owned by a space traveller (I think the Space Rider or another name); another was a planet whose gravity was so intense that even a Viltrumite's ability to fly was hampered dramatically, which also had beasts adapted to said gravity level that were lethally ferocious.

In a bit of a plug, I recently read Kirkmman's CAPES this week, which came out in trade. It was a superhero title connected to the same sort of universe as INVINCIBLE and TECH JACKET (which I haven't read), so I decided to give it a whirl. The title lasted 3 issues in 2003 (before INVINCIBLE was beyond issue #6) and had a back-up strip in 18 issues of INVINCIBLE over the past year or so that amounted to an additional 3 and 1/3rd issues. It is about a team of superheroes who work for a company named Capes, Inc. that is funded by the government (and probably private souces too) and they have salaries, overtime pay, even rules regarding resurrections and such. It is drawn by Englert, whose style resembles that of Erik Larson (only a bit cruder; say a bit of Frank Miller mixed in), which may not be for everyone. It isn't a masterwork, but it is entertaining. Plus, the Capes characters crossed-over a few times in Invincible. These instances were during the 2nd Hardcover (issues #14-24), the 6th Trade (issues #25-30; the battle with Omnipotus), and two future verisons of the characters pop up in the 7th trade (issues #31-35, the issue where Mark is trapped on that world after killing Angstrom Levy). Just figured it was worth a mention to those interested. The Image website says it is $14.99, but the copy I have has a retail price of $17.99 (which is a bit steep considering 6 issues at normal cover price would be $17.94), but it likely is cheaper at Amazon or something.

[Elijya]

(and they just changed colorists to boot),
So that explains the different look. couldn't' quite place it

[ampersand]

The new colorist is going to have to grow on me. Right now the new coloring makes me le sad.

[Dread]

So that explains the different look. couldn't' quite place it

At least I heard they are changing colorists. Some of the cover credits still are the same, so who knows? Maybe they were just in a rush.

[PhotoJones]

They've changed colorists. Bill Crabtree is out. Val Staples is in.

[Dread]

They've changed colorists. Bill Crabtree is out. Val Staples is in.

Gotcha. I thought I/we were correct about the colorist change.

Diamond listed issue #46 for the 17th and then the 24th, but Image doesn't list it as coming out this week and neither does Midtown Comics, which is probably THE biggest comic shop in Manhattan and seems to get EVERYTHING (even stuff like Gold-Digger). Which means it is running late again. Every week without it makes me sadder. :csad:

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Hmmmm, so I'm curious as to why Mark beat the **** out of Cecil.

[PhotoJones]

Gotcha. I thought I/we were correct about the colorist change.

Diamond listed issue #46 for the 17th and then the 24th, but Image doesn't list it as coming out this week and neither does Midtown Comics, which is probably THE biggest comic shop in Manhattan and seems to get EVERYTHING (even stuff like Gold-Digger). Which means it is running late again. Every week without it makes me sadder. :csad:

Midtown's lists are almost always screwy. I've had this converstaion with Brian Wood (shameless name drop) and Midtown gets it wrong a vast majority of the time.

[Elijya]

Hmmmm, so I'm curious as to why Mark beat the **** out of Cecil.

The cover to the previous issue pretty much spells it out. He's going to find out Cecil has D.A Sinclair working for him

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

The cover to the previous issue pretty much spells it out. He's going to find out Cecil has D.A Sinclair working for him


Ah, that's right. Forgot about that. :up:

Well done Peck :up: :D

[Dread]

Midtown's lists are almost always screwy. I've had this converstaion with Brian Wood (shameless name drop) and Midtown gets it wrong a vast majority of the time.

Name-dropper. The only comic person I met once was Dave Cockrum at a NY Convention around when X2 was out in theatres. He loved rehashing about Nightcrawler. When he died a few years later it hit me harder because I actually had talked to him for like half an hour or something. Still a shame the X2 DVD people didn't include him on a featurette considering he created or co-created a lot of characters in those films, including Kurt.

Anyway, no list is infallible. I'll just have to keep my eyes open for #46. The fact that no preview has seemed to come out yet means it may be a few extra weeks.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Hey does anyone know how much a copy of Invincible #1 goes for?

[Dread]

Hey does anyone know how much a copy of Invincible #1 goes for?

A quick eBay search found one seller selling a varient edition for $4.99 and another a signed one for $2.25. Granted, neither was CGC graded, which can double or quadruple a book's value. Still, I'd say not much. :(

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

I tried searching for one on ebay and all I found were trades.

Damn that's it? Stupid consumers. :(

So i would guess a legit copy from a comic book store not graded would go for no more than $20?

[Dread]

I tried searching for one on ebay and all I found were trades.

Damn that's it? Stupid consumers. :(

So i would guess a legit copy from a comic book store not graded would go for no more than $20?

Considering a VARIENT was going for under $5, I'd say you would have to be lucky to get more than cover price if it is not CGC graded.

Still, I am no expert. There is an OVERSTREET COMICS GUIDE thing that goes over values of books, since Wizard mostly stopped providing those years ago to focus on more articles.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Yeah but Overstreet is so damn expensive.

Wizard still does, just not very many comics.

[Elijya]

Hey does anyone know how much a copy of Invincible #1 goes for?

A quick eBay search found one seller selling a varient edition for $4.99 and another a signed one for $2.25. Granted, neither was CGC graded, which can double or quadruple a book's value. Still, I'd say not much. :(

It helps if you check completed auctions

Non-CGCed $90
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-Mint-Kirkman-Movie-High-Grade-9-8_W0QQitemZ110177119689QQihZ001QQcategoryZ32735QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

BIN for $75
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-NM-signed-by-Kirkman_W0QQitemZ300161899182QQihZ020QQcategoryZ70 965QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Not nearmint $56
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-by-Robert-Kirkman-of-Walking-Dead_W0QQitemZ220159470756QQihZ012QQcategoryZ70965 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

The reprint generally goes for under $15

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

It helps if you check completed auctions

Non-CGCed $90
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-Mint-Kirkman-Movie-High-Grade-9-8_W0QQitemZ110177119689QQihZ001QQcategoryZ32735QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

BIN for $75
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-NM-signed-by-Kirkman_W0QQitemZ300161899182QQihZ020QQcategoryZ70 965QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Not nearmint $56
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-by-Robert-Kirkman-of-Walking-Dead_W0QQitemZ220159470756QQihZ012QQcategoryZ70965 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

The reprint generally goes for under $15

Thanks Peck :up:

How did the whole fighting the son of satan thing go?

[Dread]

It helps if you check completed auctions

Non-CGCed $90
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-Mint-Kirkman-Movie-High-Grade-9-8_W0QQitemZ110177119689QQihZ001QQcategoryZ32735QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

BIN for $75
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-NM-signed-by-Kirkman_W0QQitemZ300161899182QQihZ020QQcategoryZ70 965QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Not nearmint $56
http://cgi.ebay.com/Invincible-1-by-Robert-Kirkman-of-Walking-Dead_W0QQitemZ220159470756QQihZ012QQcategoryZ70965 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

The reprint generally goes for under $15

Wow. I think I'll call "pwned!" on myself because this knocked my inept research out like a grand slam. :cool:

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Wow. I think I'll call "pwned!" on myself because this knocked my inept research out like a grand slam. :cool:

At least you can admit it :up: :D

[GoldenAgeHero]

http://www.newsarama.com/ImageComics/Invincible/51/lee_invin.jpg


all star invincible and the boy wonder:o


hate the costumes tho,they'll probably grow on me.

[Upset Spideyfan]

I'm not feeling the new look. :(

[Superman_]

Since when could Nightwing fly.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

has the next one come out yet?

[Upset Spideyfan]

Next week.

[Dread]

http://www.newsarama.com/ImageComics/Invincible/51/lee_invin.jpg


That is the cover to issue #51, which Image is claiming will come out in Feb. 2008, which seems iffy as #46 was delayed at least a month at this point. But, who knows.

Here is the rest of the article from Newsarama:

Creator Robert Kirkman and Image Comics are promising a lot of “new”ness in February’s Invincible #51, the start of a new story arc and change in direction for the series.

As a preview of all the promised new stuff, Image has provided Newsarama readers the very first look at the character’s new costume, in a cover by none other than Jim Lee.

Click on the link to see the full image…

INVINCIBLE #51
story ROBERT KIRKMAN
art RYAN OTTLEY & BILL CRABTREE
cover JIM LEE & BILL CRABTREE
New costume! New beginning! New home! New Partner! Everything is all-new starting with this issue. Featuring an all-new cover by comic book super-star JIM LEE! If you’ve ever thought about reading INVINCIBLE this is the jumping-on point you’ve been waiting for. The next fifty issues start here!
FEBRUARY 20 32 PAGES FC $2.99

It certainly looks the the promises of "his world crumbling" after issue #50 are true. After all, this is Kirkman's character and universe, and he is free to make changes. I'll wait to read the story.

As for Invincible's new costume, I actually kind of like it. Of course, I'll wait until I see Ottley & Crabtree draw it, rather than just Jim Lee. Blue and black go well together, and it may make sense with Invincible's new attitude. The costume design is mostly the same, just the colors have changed, and some tweaks with the boots/gloves. Basically, the elimination of yellow to his color scheme.

"Omni-Boy"? Priceless. But will Mrs. Grayson approve?

[O'Haire]

I don't care for the new costume. It just looks plain and boring. Doesn't stand out like the original.

[Anubis]

It's the same costume, just a different color.

[JackRembrandt]

It's not exactly the same. The boots and gloves a bit different. Costume aside, that's one of the worst Jim Lee covers I've ever seen.

[Kevin]

http://www.newsarama.com/ImageComics/Invincible/51/lee_invin.jpg


all star invincible and the boy wonder:o


hate the costumes tho,they'll probably grow on me.
I'm not into this book, like at all. I got that 50 cent issue some years back, didn't like what it was about.

But because of this outfit, with the Blue and Black, I want to read it. I may still not like it, who knows, but the outfit is too cool to pass up. I'll have to at least give it another try.

[JackRembrandt]

You're weird.

[Kevin]

I try.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Next week.

It's about ****ing time!

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Saying you're not into Invincible is like saying you didn't like Michael Jordan when he played. It's weird and controversial but there are those people out there.

[JackRembrandt]

And then following that up with, "The new costume makes me want to read it" is weird, times 10.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

Touche

[Kevin]

And then following that up with, "The new costume makes me want to read it" is weird, times 10.
Hey, My reasons for wanting to read a comic becase of a new costume are completely gay. As in "Gay." Weird, but honest.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

I just don't understand why you don't like Invicible. But to each their own.

[Kevin]

It just unnerved me that his father was the greatest hero ever, but really was a villian, then beat the cra pout of his son. I know that was only a small part of the story, but it was enough to turn me away. Plus its a giving that if he hasn't already, he'll have to fight his father.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

It just unnerved me that his father was the greatest hero ever, but really was a villian, then beat the cra pout of his son. I know that was only a small part of the story, but it was enough to turn me away. Plus its a giving that if he hasn't already, he'll have to fight his father.


I don't understand how that could turn you away. If anything it makes the story even more interesting. Life is not nice and the Universe is a violent place.

And since you stopped reading you would know that the exact opposite has happend since they fought. I don't want to ruin it for you but if you had kept reading you would know that in fact there is no such fight going to happen between Mark and his father.

[Kevin]

I'll give it another chance before #50. I'm not saying it's bad writing, just that that one part unnerved me.

[Elijya]

It just unnerved me that his father was the greatest hero ever, but really was a villian, then beat the cra pout of his son. I know that was only a small part of the story, but it was enough to turn me away. Plus its a giving that if he hasn't already, he'll have to fight his father.

But you were only told about this and didn't actually read it yourself, right?

[LouFerignoDemon]

I'll give it another chance before #50. I'm not saying it's bad writing, just that that one part unnerved me.


I dunno if you read it or not, but if you haven't, I say you should, because it really fleshes out what happened, why, and where it's all headed.

[Elijya]

The 50 cent issue was a recap, so it doesn't flow like the regular ongoing story

[LouFerignoDemon]

Wakka wakka wakka. I haven't read comics in a few months, someone fill me in with what's going on with Invincible, until I can go buy it?

[Anubis]

Where did you leave off?

[LouFerignoDemon]

With the issue that female Viltrumite came to Earth.

[BAH HUMBBUG!]

But you were only told about this and didn't actually read it yourself, right?


If you are going to take anyone's word, take Peck's :up:

[Dread]

With the issue that female Viltrumite came to Earth.

I think you've only missed an issue since then. INVINCIBLE has been running behind.

Newsarama has a preview for issue #46, finally shipping tomorrow, and it has some spoilers:

http://www.newsarama.com/ImageComics/Nov07/previews/21st.html

According to the preview, Dupli-Kate actually DID survive the Serpant Squad attack. Still nada on Shrinking Ray, though. No one seems to miss that poor dude. If he decided to turn evil, I'd totally understand.

[LouFerignoDemon]

I see Multi-Paul!

[Dread]

I see Multi-Paul!

Heh, Multi-Paul. Such a cheesy pun, and yet it works.

The preview also show that Invincible can bench press "almost 400 tons". It should be noted that bench pressing is not the same as lifting or pushing, so he could lift more, depending on the situation and pose. But, DAMN.

[JackRembrandt]

Multi-Paul and Dupli-Kate are great names. Cheese is good. ;)

[LouFerignoDemon]

Heh, Multi-Paul. Such a cheesy pun, and yet it works.

The preview also show that Invincible can bench press "almost 400 tons". It should be noted that bench pressing is not the same as lifting or pushing, so he could lift more, depending on the situation and pose. But, DAMN.


Dead lifting, or a fit of desperation.

Either way, the bio on him was either inaccurate, or his strength increase from the bio was nearly ten fold.

[Dread]

Dead lifting, or a fit of desperation.

Either way, the bio on him was either inaccurate, or his strength increase from the bio was nearly ten fold.

That, and the Invincible Handbook was made out of homage to the Marvel ones less so than graining down actual stats.

[LouFerignoDemon]

Yeah, he was weighted at like thirty to forty tons? Woefully inadequate.

But yeah, homage to DC/Marvel handbooks. Get the history down decent, screw up the stats.

[Dread]

Yeah, he was weighted at like thirty to forty tons? Woefully inadequate.

But yeah, homage to DC/Marvel handbooks. Get the history down decent, screw up the stats.

The second one "updated" Invincible to "70 tons". But not for long.

Here is my review of issue #46, with spoilers:

INVINCIBLE #46: Running about a month or so behind, Kirkman blames it on Comic-Con, and hopefully that means things can kick up to a normal schedule. Of course, each issue takes about 7 weeks to complete, and Kirkman does write another 5 or so books, and edits some more, so, he is a busy bee. Waits between issues of "probably the best superhero comic book in the universe", especially when Kirkman & Image are promoting issue #50 rather heavily, can be hard to bare, but are worth it for as great a read as this is. I say it every month, but it bares repeating: if you like superhero comics, once you're "into it", INVINCIBLE really is one of the best examples around. It mixes all the elements of the genre together in a blend that is both homage and innovation. I mean, check out Rex Splode "doing the Spidey fingers" to shoot out kinetic-orbs from his new cyborg hand on the cover. INVINCIBLE has suspense, and drama, and sometimes a LOT of gore, but it also can be colorful and fun, and few comics can blend both so easily. As with most issues, this is jam-packed with events and while some comics are slow or have "middling" issues, INVINCIBLE rarely does, or at least has them less often than other comics, while still having an endless supply of subplots either develop or be created. It turns out that some fan speculation was right; Dupli-Kate DID survive her battle with the Lizard League via "hiding a copy of herself", or in this case her "Number 0", and telling Immortal the good news before wanting to rush out and stop her brother Multi-Paul from avenging her. Kirkman also allows Invincible to flex his muscles, literally, at a training exercise in the Pentagon with Cecil. All those Vs. Debate Fanboys who gush over the Hulk and Sentry being 100 ton class? Well, Mark's shown benching almost 400 tons, man! Ottley does a great splash page of the machine, too. At least Invincible isn't in "hyper gravity" like in DBZ. He talks with Rex Splode about Eve and the pair team up to stop some new baddies; martial arts time-travelers who go on about a "mission" and swipe the Declaration of Independence to do it! The pair can't thwart the theft because Multi-Paul shows up and thinks Rex had something to do with Kate's seeming demise, and Mark gets to put in some "dopple smashing" moves that'd put Neo to shame. And you have to love names like Fightmaster & Drop Kick; at least Fightmaster is fast enough to impress Invincible, if only for a page. Naturally, seeing Invincible rely on Cecil even more as we build to #50 will make the turn of events even more harsh. And finally, Nolan proves himself "worthy of public execution" as a Viltrumite by kicking a lot of ass. I wonder when Allen will stage his inevitable jailbreak? Next issue promises the return of some rogues from the second hardcover, which means hopefully seeing Titan & his mob is forthcoming. That subplot's been left to dangle a while. And a letter writer shares my sense of disbelief at someone claiming INVINCIBLE would sell better if Kirkman used "Jesus" in vain less in a prior column. Really, that assertation was pretty out there, even in the realm of fanboys. Anyway, so the rest is the usual story. INVINCIBLE is my favorite comic, this was a cool issue, I look forward to more, the only negative is the schedule sometimes being iffy on it. But it is far better than some Big Two schedules.

[Dread]

More important tidbits from issue #46's letters page from Kirkman:

- Issue #47 will have both Titan and Isotope in it.
- The female Viltrumite from the prior 2 issues is named Anissa; her name simply never got into any of the lines. Sometimes Kirkman makes little goofs (like the Mantis People never being named in the comics) and sometimes his sketch sections in HC's joke about this.

Anyway, Kirkman fans may think the name "Anissa" sounds familiar, because it is. During his "Titannus War" storyline in MTU, the Trelllian alien woman that Titannus was devoted to was named...Amissa. M instead of N. Guess he likes how the name sounds. ;)

[JackRembrandt]

That's interesting. Good catch, man. :up:

[Dread]

That's interesting. Good catch, man. :up:

Thanks. Sometimes the letters' pages have neat info, although I usually just skim them, least before a re-read.

The name thing caught my attention because I did enjoy Kirkman's MTU and the Titannus War finale, where Dr. Strange gathers Spider-Man, Nova, Ms. Marvel, She-Hulk, and Hulk to fight Titannus in Japan (where Wolverine happened to pop up, too), was among the series' high-points for me. So I re-read it a few times.

And if you think about it, Titannus in MTU, Titan in INVINCIBLE? Kirkman reuses some names, or at least changes minor things. It's kind of cute. I used to try to draw my own comics during my younger years, so I relate.

[GoldenAgeHero]

anyways. what do you guys think isgoing to happen to nolan? will he come back to earth and be together with debbie or something else?

what are your thoughts about the future global guardians? rudy had now taken rex's role or is it the other way around? and what is rudy's pase 2 project?


lastly, what do you think will finally make mark go over the edge?

[Dread]

anyways. what do you guys think isgoing to happen to nolan? will he come back to earth and be together with debbie or something else?

Interesting question. I am presuming Allen may help him escape, but the real question would be, would Debbie HAVE Nolan at all?

what are your thoughts about the future global guardians? rudy had now taken rex's role or is it the other way around? and what is rudy's pase 2 project?

Robot seemed to have grown up in the "future" guardians, and as he was cloned from Rex's DNA (because Monster Girl found Rex attractive), he'd end up looking like Rex.

lastly, what do you think will finally make mark go over the edge?

More than likely Invincible finding out that not only is Cecil allowing the creator of the Reanimen to operate for the government, but that Cecil helped him avoid being detected by the law for months.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

Paul is a dick

[JackRembrandt]

He's not a dick, he's just nuts.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

He's not a dick, he's just nuts.
no i think that rex was right hes an *******.

[JackRembrandt]

His nutsiness makes him a dick.

[Anubis]

heh, good issue. Vince poped him in the jaw and was like, "I'm takin' your ass to jail jerk!" Awesome.

[Dread]

heh, good issue. Vince poped him in the jaw and was like, "I'm takin' your as to jail jerk!" Awesome.

Yeah, that was cool.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

so i went into the comic shop to day and what did i find but ish 47, and in the letters section kirkman says that they will be getting it out once every 3 weeks (heres hoping they can).

anyone think that the Cecil will try to take Oliver now that he knows he has powers, and that he will use the Reanimen to do it?

[Anubis]

Nah, doesn't seem like Cecil's style.

[HR-PUFF&STUFF]

Nah, doesn't seem like Cecil's style.Maybe DA's as a way to get back at Mark and to get in good with Cecil?

[Dread]

Reposting my review of the latest issue, as usual:

INVINCIBLE #47: Image has been promoting issue #50 for a while now, and claiming it will ship on 1/08, but given that Invincible had run into delay, that seemed unlikely for me. Finding this issue suddenly on the shelves at least shows Image may be trying to give it the ol' school try, and Kirkman in the letters pages claims to try to get out the next few issues every 3 weeks, which means we should have another issue at the end of the month and hopefully that goal of #50 before Feb. 2008 is possible. Considering "One More Delay" 's woes, it would be cool to see Image succeed here. Naturally, this is my favorite book right now, so any week with this shipping is a good week. The mafia type baddies, who last showed up maybe 1-2 years ago, finally re-appear as it seems Multi-Paul was an agent of the Asian branch of "the order", and since he was arrested on Titan's inheritated turf (taken from Machine Head back in HC #2), it is up to him to get Multi-Paul freed, a task that Titan vows to perform. Nolan runs into Allen in their space-prison as the Viltrumites are starting up on executing him. And Robot is trying to get Monster-Girl who be able to control a robot like he does, so she doesn't have to shape-shift and risk growing younger than she is. But the book has quite a lot of humor amongst the subplots, such as William awkwardly KUNG FU FIGHTING in Mark's spandex, and the first team-up of Mark &, uh, "Purple Omni-Boy" against Magmaniac & Tether Tyrant, who decide that robbing bank trucks beats hunting for legal work. The pair are quickly dispatched with, which is nice to see as once upon a time, they were an average challenge for Invincible (back before he could bench 400 tons). More of Oliver's unique perspective is revealed and the little scamp's pretty good in a fight. The last page naturally reveals what should be the trigger for the earth-shattering #50, which is Cecil employing D.A. Sinclair to create more Reanimen, only for the USA. I'm sure that Cecil's intentions aren't evil; he likely wants to bolster the U.S. defense force, since superheroes are finite and can be prone to things like death or being off-world. It could also mean that Cecil's realizes he is relying on Invincible as much as he did Omni-Man and may want to hedge bets against another betrayal. Naturally, D.A. Sinclair was a maniac who mutilated both the living and the dead to make his Reanimen, and employing him won't be seen as kosher by Mark, and possibly other heroes, too. Imagine of SHIELD employed Arnim Zola. Granted, they employed a messload of criminals for CW, but you get my drift. This is just more "classic Invincible"; some comedic moments, good art & colors, good characters that by now you care for, and some great action sequences. A building subplot are icing on the cake (and after all, who eats a cake without icing?). To me, it IS the best superhero comic in the universe, and I can't wait to see what issue #50 brings. I even don't mind the altered costume that is coming soon for Invincible (for those who haven't seen it, it basically gets rid of the yellow in his design). Calling Invincible the "Spider-Man" of the 21st century may be a bit of a stretch this soon in, but it certainly has captured some of that "magic in a bottle" of that era, all while homaging that era and what those comics used to do so well. And the T-shirts in the back look cool, even to someone like me who wearly wears something that isn't black (unless it is for work). 3 issues within 7 weeks? We'll see. But no matter how long or short the wait, Invincible is always worth it.

[LouFerignoDemon]

You sorta forgot to mention Monster Girl is still becoming younger anyway. o.o

[Dread]

You sorta forgot to mention Monster Girl is still becoming younger anyway. o.o

True. But it seemed as a slower rate.

I figure, she gets younger the more often she uses her Monster Girl form, but even if she refrains, it may be gradual. Then again, she has shifted quite a few times despite herself. ;)

[Elijya]

Hey, to any fans of the Invincible expanded universe (Brit, Capes) there's a new trade out of Tech Jacket. It was previously only released in a black and white digest. It's just a little miniseries about a kid who gets an alien suit of armor that's pretty fun.

[Dread]

Hey, to any fans of the Invincible expanded universe (Brit, Capes) there's a new trade out of Tech Jacket. It was previously only released in a black and white digest. It's just a little miniseries about a kid who gets an alien suit of armor that's pretty fun.

I've seen TECH-JACKET being sold before, and have considered getting it. Thanks. One day I just might.

[Dread]

Figured it was worth a bump for a review of THIS:

I went into Manhattan and finally got my copy of INVINCIBLE PRESENTS: ATOM EVE #1 (of 2) today @ Cosmic Comics. Whenever the corporate bungling of the elites mangles my childhood hero again and again, Invincible seems to always be there to lift be back from the doldrums and remind me why I bother with superhero comics in the first place (besides all the other great Marvel books out there, including AVENGERS: THE INITIATIVE). It is written by Benito Cereno and drawn & inked by Nate Bellegarde (with the always-reliable Bill Crabtree on colors, and Kirkman himself as editor). It is 24 pages without ads with a bonus 1-2 pager back-up by Kirkman & Bellegarde noting why Mark Grayson isn't part of the story. Cory Walker returns to the characters he co-created on the cover. Having longer than the 2-4 pages that Eve's origin had maybe 2-3 years ago (I believe it was the second HC for me), it has time to breathe and allows us to literally follow her from the womb to adolescence. Having been the subject of a government experiment to create superhumans, Eve was switched at birth for a stillborn baby so her "creator", Dr. Elias Brandyworth, could save her from a life of government servitude. Naturally, she is born incredibly intelligent, which doesn't gell with her blue-collar family, especially when she wants a life of her own and discover her power to, essentially, create or reorganize any matter. She starts off as a young heroine who actually wears a domino mask (which we know she will abandon, for some reason, by the time she nears 18 and joins Robot's Teen Team). The government, meanwhile, is furious about losing her and wants to recollect her. Had this been released years ago when Kirkman wanted, it may not have had the effect it has now. That is, it is coming on the hells of an arc in INVINCIBLE where Mark will inevitably find out about Cecil & the government's dirty dealings, and have some sort of falling out. Eve wasn't their first attempt at creating a super-soldier and she wasn't the last. In the wake of something like CIVIL WAR where heroes peddle for the fed or go to jail, this will be a VERY intense storyline in the Invincible-verse and Eve is a key cog of it, as Kirkman admits in a 2 page notation about the character. The timing is perfect for this mini.

There is a bit of me that is dismayed that INVINCIBLE, which is one great book, may do what every single "one great book" has done; expand to 2, 3, 4, and more into an entire "franchise" that stretches things out and creates a heap of problems. That is perhaps putting the wagon before the horse at this stage, but, as OMD proves, comic fans usually are justified in being paranoid. Still, for the moment it is a solid story without any ad-breaks in the pages about a cool supporting character for INVINCIBLE. I can imagine ALLEN THE ALIEN could also be due down the pipeline. There's a lot to like here, especially with Benito's dialogue, which captures the heart of Kirkman's very well. The art is great, too. If you love INVINCIBLE, you'll enjoy this, so snap it up. :up:

A much needed upper after OMD.

[GoldenAgeHero]

screw OMD. and the backup was cheap. still a nice issue tho.

whens the next ish of Invincible is being released?

[Dread]

No clue. :(

[PWN3R]

We need a Battle Beast mini now.....

[GoldenAgeHero]

No clue. :(


sucks, I really can't get enough of that book.

[fifthfiend]

as OMD proves, comic fans usually are justified in being paranoid.

I should really sig that.

[Dread]

I should really sig that.

If you want to, you have my permission. ;) I've never been "sigged".

[Elijya]

There is a bit of me that is dismayed that INVINCIBLE, which is one great book, may do what every single "one great book" has done; expand to 2, 3, 4, and more into an entire "franchise" that stretches things out and creates a heap of problems. That is perhaps putting the wagon before the horse at this stage, but, as OMD proves, comic fans usually are justified in being paranoid. Still, for the moment it is a solid story without any ad-breaks in the pages about a cool supporting character for INVINCIBLE. I can imagine ALLEN THE ALIEN could also be due down the pipeline. There's a lot to like here, especially with Benito's dialogue, which captures the heart of Kirkman's very well. The art is great, too. If you love INVINCIBLE, you'll enjoy this, so snap it up.

Why would this dismay you? I would LOVE for this to be the case, as long as the story quality was kept up. It already has a shared universe with Brit, and Kirkman had originally said he wanted CAPES to be a sister book for Invincible, but it didn't take off. IT takes a long time for any character to be able to support a long term spin off book, and it's impressive that so far Invincible has a number of sister minis along side it, and I hope they continue.

[PhotoJones]

Science Dog returns in #50. From Kirkman's website:

http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/01_ink.jpg

[PhotoJones]

Brit #9:

http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/brit9clr-flatb.jpg

[Anubis]

Oh Hellz Yeah!!!

[GoldenAgeHero]

awesome!!!! can't wait.

[Dread]

I don't read BRIT. Much for the same reason I haven't read TECH JACKET yet; haven't had the time or money to buy extra trades at the moment.

Why would this dismay you? I would LOVE for this to be the case, as long as the story quality was kept up. It already has a shared universe with Brit, and Kirkman had originally said he wanted CAPES to be a sister book for Invincible, but it didn't take off. IT takes a long time for any character to be able to support a long term spin off book, and it's impressive that so far Invincible has a number of sister minis along side it, and I hope they continue.

Yes, I know about CAPES. I read the series & the back-ups in the trade.

"Dismay" was maybe too strong a word. But what I can say is that historically, every single time a comic book has gone from being one, single, great comic into a many-comic, inflated franchise, it has drained on the original core book and things got worse. Happened to UXM, ASM, and so on. The fact that FF and Hulk usually maintain one ongoing isn't for lack of trying, but sales on the sister books. INVINCIBLE is one solid book, but once it becomes like 3, 4, 7, then things get drained.

Like I said in the review, I am jumping the gun a bit, akin to an alien perhaps watching a caveman invent the spear and then fearing the humans are about to become galaxy-destroyers. But I have seen the writing on the wall and I have seen things take this turn again, and again, and again. Branching out did nothing for SPAWN during the 90's, did it? For the moment, it is just one short mini, and all it going well. But every disaster has a moment, a moment where things started going too far, and I don't want INVINCIBLE to dare near one.

There's a difference between a few interconnected books that Kirkman also writes or edits, I know, than there being Invincible and then 2-5 INVINCIBLE PRESENTS series going side by side. But, I think OMD is but one example that franchises can be treated horribly when a quick buck can be smelled. I'd hate to see INVINCIBLE become likewise, is all. It's all I got left in the comic world that isn't tainted yet. :p

[Elijya]

Well, 2-5 is a bit much. That sounds more like what happened with Ghost Rider and the whole Midnight Sons expansion (although, Darkhold was a REALLY underrated series). The scenario with the Hulk, Spider-Man, and FF examples you give is different in that attempts for a second title still star the same characters (The X-Books obviously have a different dynamic since it's such a large group of people, and you more or less NEED to have multiple books for all the characters in the x-universe. (Can you imagine writing just one X-Book and trying to meet the demand for decent screen time for forty popular characters? Nevermind the 700 less popular ones).

The difference in the scenario of, say, Guardians of the Globe getting their own series is that they'd be on their own. It's comprable to, say, when the Punisher was popular after having appeared in Spider-Man and Daredevil, so he was given his own title. Likewise, the Silver Surfer after appearing in the Fantastic Four. I don't think there are any single characters in the invincible universe that could support their own solo title, but a group book is possible. An "Invincible Presents" logo would merely be to capitalize, and could be dropped after awhile, or just appear on the first issue.

[Anubis]

I think you're crazy Dread.

[Spike_x1]

Brit #9:

http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/brit9clr-flatb.jpgI think I've just found a new wallpaper. :up:

[Dread]

Well, 2-5 is a bit much. That sounds more like what happened with Ghost Rider and the whole Midnight Sons expansion (although, Darkhold was a REALLY underrated series). The scenario with the Hulk, Spider-Man, and FF examples you give is different in that attempts for a second title still star the same characters (The X-Books obviously have a different dynamic since it's such a large group of people, and you more or less NEED to have multiple books for all the characters in the x-universe. (Can you imagine writing just one X-Book and trying to meet the demand for decent screen time for forty popular characters? Nevermind the 700 less popular ones).

Ultimate X-Men actually tried to be a lone X-book again for quite a few years, and carried things off rather well, sticking to a streamlined cast, until the Kirkman run, when he decided to split up the team and retrend over territory hardly any X-Fan wants to revisit, like the Outback days, or the days when Time Jockies like Cable & Bishop ruled the day and all the other characters just towed along. Ah, such a shame. Kirkman's great on literally every book but that one.

But, you have a point.

The difference in the scenario of, say, Guardians of the Globe getting their own series is that they'd be on their own. It's comprable to, say, when the Punisher was popular after having appeared in Spider-Man and Daredevil, so he was given his own title. Likewise, the Silver Surfer after appearing in the Fantastic Four. I don't think there are any single characters in the invincible universe that could support their own solo title, but a group book is possible. An "Invincible Presents" logo would merely be to capitalize, and could be dropped after awhile, or just appear on the first issue.

And I am sure after Punisher got 3 titles and guested everywhere during the 90's, plenty of people wished he'd never spun off in the first place. I suppose some people might say there is a difference between potential and mishandling/overdoing things, but how quickly one becomes the other in this biz sometimes is astonishing. Castle's resurgence has been relatively recent (barely 5 years).

If they are off on their own book, that means I have to pay an extra $3 to follow the Guardians, and that would be annoying. And what if said other writer, even with Kirkman editting, doesn't handle them as well? Things get complicated. I think the GOTG are working just fine as they are. But, to each their own. I'd likely read a spin-off anyway.

I think you're crazy Dread.

The line between genius and insanity is often blurry, and naturally the non-geniuses assume it is insanity. :o

"Some people can read War and Peace and come away thinking it's a simple adventure story. Others can read the ingredients on a chewing gum wrapper and unlock the secrets of the universe."

[Anubis]

Yeah, but those guys unlocking the universe on a chewing gum wrapper often Soil themselves in public and think the CIA is trying to steal their thoughts through the telephone wires.

The only guy that can pull of Paranoia is Batman.

[Dread]

Yeah, but those guys unlocking the universe on a chewing gum wrapper often Soil themselves in public and think the CIA is trying to steal their thoughts through the telephone wires.

It was a line from SUPERMAN I figured was appropriate. ;)

[Anubis]

I said the same thing when I read that line the first time. Though I've long since forgotten where I read it.

[MetalloX]

#48 Preview:
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4801_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4802_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4803_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4804_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4805_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4806_col.jpg

[Dread]

#48 Preview:
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4801_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4802_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4803_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4804_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4805_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4806_col.jpg

Thanks for posting that preview. Naturally it is good to bring back Rick to remind us of his Reanimen nightmare just in time for the showdown over ethics with Cecil.

And, nice way to promote WOLF-MAN, SAVAGE DRAGON, DYNAMO 5, BRIT, and his CAPES TPB (which I bought, it was fun).

Hopefully that means we'll be getting the issue within a week or two.

[PhotoJones]

#48 Preview:
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4801_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4802_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4803_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4804_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4805_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4806_col.jpg

It's good to see Mark and Will having the time to hang out again. It seems like Mark has been so tied up with superhero and family stuff, he hasn't had too much time for his buds.

[Andy C.]

Damn, I can't believe I waited so long to actually start reading this series. Picked up vol. 1 today, and I'm already planning on going back tomorrow to get vol. 2. I'm freakin' hooked.

[Spike_x1]

#48 Preview:
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4801_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4802_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4803_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4804_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4805_col.jpg
http://www.kirkmania.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/inv4806_col.jpgI love Ryan's Wolf-Man here. I really do like Jason Howard's art in the actual Wolf-Man book, for its simplicity (although sometimes Gary's face can look more like a bear than a wolf), but this just looks so much cooler IMO.

[Dread]

Damn, I can't believe I waited so long to actually start reading this series. Picked up vol. 1 today, and I'm already planning on going back tomorrow to get vol. 2. I'm freakin' hooked.

That's how I was after I got the first HC. Welcome to the club. :)

[SpandexFan]

Damn, I can't believe I waited so long to actually start reading this series. Picked up vol. 1 today, and I'm already planning on going back tomorrow to get vol. 2. I'm freakin' hooked.

You haven't even gotten into the best parts yet. Invincible just gets better as it goes along and I have yet to see it slide.

[Dread]

You haven't even gotten into the best parts yet. Invincible just gets better as it goes along and I have yet to see it slide.

Quoted for truth, as the kids say these days.

[Spike_x1]

I just noticed that it's a full moon in the preview pic with Wolf-Man. :huh:

[Dread]

I just noticed that it's a full moon in the preview pic with Wolf-Man. :huh:

Y'know, there is. He should be going loco. :o

[SuGarRush]

Man I bought TPB 1.
The next day I went back and bought 2 and 3.
It's been a month and I own 1-7 and I'm out of money.

Out of curiosity, how many trades have been released at this point?

[ihateusernames]

What do you guys think of the new costume?

[LemonSunday]

It's alright. I like the old (current) one better.

[Dread]

What do you guys think of the new costume?

I'll need time to get used to it, and to see Ottley & Crabtree draw & color it first.

Issue #48 finally came out. Here's my review, with spoilers:
INVINCIBLE #48: Late comics suck, especially when they involve "probably the best superhero comic in the universe". Image has been trying to promote issues #50-51 and they have had to push those back from Jan. to Feb. and so on due to the schedule; as Kirkman himself admits, things have gotten off the rails and they struggle to produce 10-11 issues a year. Still, though, devoted fans are loving this series and I am one of them, and after this issue finished I could see where the "earth shattering" arc leading up to #50-51 is going. Mark, Will, and Rick go out for a manly night of bowling and Rick starts to fall apart, still emotionally shattered by his experience of being kidnapped by Sinclair and turned into a cybernetic Reaniman. Meanwhile, Doc Seismic launches his grandest scheme yet, organizing an army of underground creatures to attack and then capture just about EVERY known superhero in the little Image Kirkman-iverse, including the teams from Dynamo 5, Capes, Savage Dragon & his pals, Brit, and Wolf-Man & Zechariah from AW-M. As well as the Global Guardians. Invincible & Atom Eve are forced to unite despite the recent hassles in their relationship to launch a rescue, but even they aren't enough for the task. Meanwhile, Cecil visits Mrs. Grayson and admits he knows that Oliver has started to gain superpowers and has even helped Mark on occasion, and he feels miffed that she didn't inform them immediately. Mrs. Grayson feared the boy would be whisked away to training or pressured into the superhero biz when she wants him to not engage in such danger at his young age. It has been a while since Invincible was TKO'd by a threat so it was shocking that Seismic's monsters were able to do so. Granted, the Earth's "monsters" have often been tough enough to give Mark issues, even as recently as a few issues ago when he needed Anyssa the Viltrumite woman to kill one. Wolf-Man and Zechiriah get in a quick team-up, but they are unable to turn the tide. Considering the bimonthly nature of WOLF-MAN even when it is on time, it was cool seeing him show up. But, yeah, I can see where this is going, especially by the cover to issue #49. With all the U.S. and, heck, the planet's superheroes captured, Cecil unleashes his Reanimen to bail them out, and naturally that is when Mark will find out that Sinclair is working for the government, and take issue (to say the least). The series has stated how comfortable Mark has gotten in working with them, to the point where he finds college pointless, and this naturally be a wake-up call that he will need to become more independant and self-sufficent. I imagine that it could split the superheroes a bit too, since I imagine not all of them would approve of giving a wack-job like Sinclair a gig just because he can build cyborgs for the U.S. It is in character for Cecil to do, as Omni-Man is the ultimate example of placing too much trust in a superhero for him. Still, even if I can see what is coming, or believe I can, that doesn't make it bad; Kirkman will naturally add details I don't expect and the fallout should be gorey. The letters column also notes that action figures may be upcoming, and that Shrinking Ray is indeed dead. Poor little fella wasn't even mourned by the Guardians with half the vigor that Dupli-Kate was (and she wasn't even dead). He's the Spoiler of the Guardians (being that she was the Robin that Batman doesn't mourn nearly as much as Jason Todd, who isn't dead anymore). This is my favorite superhero comic right now and while the lateness is annoying, it doesn't put me off (plus, it isn't nearly as late as some other titles I could mention; we at least got issues within this year before this one). Ottley's art is great and Crabtree's always the man on colors, they're so symbolic and one with Invincible that I couldn't imagine the book without them, even if Corey Walker is still creditted as a co-creator. Hopefully the wait for #49 won't be so long.

[ihateusernames]

He already has drawn it, it looks a lot better, to be fair.
I still don't like it as much as the old one though.
http://ryanottley.com/archives/93

Did you read the letters pages, btw? Not sure if anyones intrested, but Kirkman say he can "almost promise" Invincible action figures within the next year.

EDIT: Ok, I just read your review, I see you did infact read the letters page, sorry.

[Dread]

He already has drawn it, it looks a lot better, to be fair.
I still don't like it as much as the old one though.
http://ryanottley.com/archives/93

Did you read the letters pages, btw? Not sure if anyones intrested, but Kirkman say he can "almost promise" Invincible action figures within the next year.

EDIT: Ok, I just read your review, I see you did infact read the letters page, sorry.

S'okay.

Thanks for the link. Hmm. Naturally, Ottley's more "natural" in the Invincible universe than Jim Lee so it gives me a better idea of the new look. While it is jarring I guess, it basically makes minor tweeks and eliminates the color yellow from the costume, so it isn't as drastic as, say, New Captain America or Iron Spidey. I will probably get used to it after a few issues.

I wonder if that action pic is just that, or could Cecil possibly convince Oliver/"Omni-Boy" to work for him while Invincible no longer does, leading to conflict? We'll see.

Action figures will be sweet. :up:

[ihateusernames]

Yeah, I'm kinda torn on between what I want form Oliver, he'd have been a cool character to watch develop his powers from such a young age, where as Mark got his in his teens, we could have seen the down sides of a child being given them.

I still can't settle on the new costume, I just don't think it suits the light heartendness of Mark as a character and the book, I always assosiated the book with Yellow, for some reason.

It kinda made yellow less gay.

[Dread]

Maybe that is the point of removing the yellow. Having Cecil turn out to be not what Mark believed him to be and that causing a split should have some effect on his character, and hence the costume change. I doubt he's about to become Marv from SIN CITY, but he may lose some of his naivety.

[nite-owl]

Where's a good point to start with Invincible issue wise? because I'm getting the third hardcover and a couple of trades for my birthday.

[Colossal Spoons]

Just read the first issue(how late am I?) and I LOVED it. Def gonna plow through this series tomorrow :D

[Elijya]

Just read the first issue(how late am I?) and I LOVED it. Def gonna plow through this series tomorrow :D

Very. I'm fairly certain I've told you about nit at least a few times :P

[Dread]

Where's a good point to start with Invincible issue wise? because I'm getting the third hardcover and a couple of trades for my birthday.

Do you have the other two hardcovers? Because the HC's will get you up to issue #35 and then there are only 2 trades and some single issues to go.

I think issue #42 was considered a "jumping on" issue.

Just read the first issue(how late am I?) and I LOVED it. Def gonna plow through this series tomorrow :D

Better late than never.

[Colossal Spoons]

Very. I'm fairly certain I've told you about nit at least a few times :P

haha, you and everybody else. I had so much other stuff to read. Fables, Dark, Tower, Preacher, etc

Better late than never.

Damn right

[Anubis]

You aint seen nothing yet.

[Colossal Spoons]

Holy Jesus, just read about Mark's dad's true origin. :eek:

[Elijya]

Holy Jesus, just read about Mark's dad's true origin. :eek:

Welcome to the addiction, brother! Aren't you glad you avoided spoilers for 6 years?

[November Rain]

looks like i should get in on this, are there any trades available for it yet.

[Colossal Spoons]

Welcome to the addiction, brother! Aren't you glad you avoided spoilers for 6 years?

I'll be at it again all day today :D

[Elijya]

looks like i should get in on this, are there any trades available for it yet.

Um, like, 10 softcovers, three hardcovers, and an Absolute

http://www.amazon.com/Invincible-Ultimate-Collection-Vol-1/dp/158240500X/ref=pd_bbs_sr_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1204045419&sr=8-5

[Colossal Spoons]

What the heck is an Absolute?

[Anubis]

A big ass hardcover collecting just about the whole series.

[Colossal Spoons]

Wow

[Anubis]

Yeah, pretty on the shelf, but you'll throw your back out trying to lift it.

[Colossal Spoons]

Yeah, you'd have to read it on a podium lol

[Elijya]

What the heck is an Absolute?

Absolutes are massive hardcovers DC started doing a few years ago that cost between $50-$100. They're 13 inch tall slipcases and weigh a good 5-10 pounds each. Generally, they'll have between 12-25 issues from a series and a boat load of extra features. Technically, DC owns the term "Absolute", so the Invincible Volume I'm talking about doesn't use the word (it instead goes under the title The Complete Invincible Library) but it's the exact same format. Here's the list of all the volumes released so far

Absolute League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Volume 1 - (Released July 1st, 2003)
Absolute Danger Girl - (Released December 17th, 2003)
Absolute Authority Volume 1 - (Released February 1st, 2004)
JLA/Avengers: The Collector's Edition - (Released December 1st, 2004)
Absolute Planetary Volume 1 - (Released January 1st, 2005)
Absolute Authority Volume 2 - (Released January 26th, 2005)
The World's Greatest Super-Heroes - (Released July 6th, 2005)
Absolute League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Volume 2 - (Released August 1st, 2005)
Absolute Batman: Hush - (Released October 1st, 2005)
Absolute Watchmen - (Released October 5th, 2005)
Absolute Crisis on Infinite Earths - (Released November 16th, 2005)
Absolute Kingdom Come - (Released July 26th, 2006)
Absolute Dark Knight - (Released August 23rd, 2006)
Absolute Sandman Volume 1 - (Released October 11, 2006)
Absolute DC: The New Frontier - (Released November 8th, 2006)
Absolute Batman: The Long Halloween - (Released April 4th, 2007)
Absolute Sandman Volume 2 - (Released October 31st, 2007)
Absolute Sandman Volume 3 - (Due for release May 28th, 2008)
Absolute League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Black Dossier - (Due for release June 11th, 2008)
Absolute Sandman Volume 4 - (Due for release November, 2008)
Absolute Justice - Confirmed by Alex Ross and Bob Wayne with no release date
Absolute Ronin - Confirmed by Bob Wayne with no release date
Absolute Superman: For All Seasons - Confirmed by Jeph Loeb with no release date
Absolute Batman: Dark Victory - Confirmed by Jeph Loeb with no release date

Also, The Complete Invincible Library and The Walking Dead Volume 1 Deluxe Hardcover

[Anubis]

I own Kingdom Come, Hush (it was only 20 bucks, so I felt I had to grab it.), and DC: New Frontier. All of which are worth the money spent.

Also, you got those Marvel Omnibus' like Captain America, New X-Men, and some others that I've blanked on at the moment.

[Dread]

Holy Jesus, just read about Mark's dad's true origin. :eek:

Indeed; for many they call that the "turning point" of INVINCIBLE, when it went from being something that could have simply been a niche into a full blown superhero opera where ANYTHING could happen and any status quo could end violently. When it went from good to great.

I'll be at it again all day today :D

I can relate; when I first got into the seriers I read the first two HC's within the same day and then by the week after I'd bought another 2-3 trades. Getting used to single issues took a short while.

[Colossal Spoons]

I kinda dislike how abruptly Mark was thrusted into full-out superhero mode. Not dislike it as in Kirkman shouldn't have done that, but I feel bad for Mark. His mom drinking sucks BIG TIME, and he and Eve need to shack up and make w/ the love :heart:

Yeah, I'm gonna be spoiled. Having to read the book monthly is gonna suck


I'm on issue 20 now. Mark just got to college :up:

[Dread]

I kinda dislike how abruptly Mark was thrusted into full-out superhero mode. Not dislike it as in Kirkman shouldn't have done that, but I feel bad for Mark. His mom drinking sucks BIG TIME, and he and Eve need to shack up and make w/ the love :heart:

Yeah, I'm gonna be spoiled. Having to read the book monthly is gonna suck

You get used to it.

Between the Omnibus and pre-emptively buying back-issues (since I expected to like it), I literally read issues #1-30 of Brubaker/Perkins/Epting's CAPTAIN AMERICA before I had to actually wait a month per 22 pages. But I got used to it.

Waiting for Eve & Mark to shack up, eh? Heh heh...:word:

[Colossal Spoons]

Yeah, i'm not diggin this Amber chick at all.

"Mark's selling drugs" :dry:

[Dread]

Considering the delays per issue (from how Kirkman describes how long it takes to complete each issue, it is an unofficial bimonthly, shipping 10-11 issues per year on a good year), you could catch up pretty quickly, especially before issue #50, when another big status quo change has been promised, complete with a costume alteration.

[Colossal Spoons]

Damn, should I slow down then lol?

I'm down for shaking things up with issue 50. It amazes me how Kirkman can write a great Invincible, and good Ant-Man, and an abysmal Ultimate X-Men.

[Dread]

Damn, should I slow down then lol?

I'm down for shaking things up with issue 50. It amazes me how Kirkman can write a great Invincible, and good Ant-Man, and an abysmal Ultimate X-Men.

Yeah, it is astonishing how awkward Ult. XM was. Not even I could hang on for his entire run.

I think Kirkman is best when he is given a chance to establish his own world, characters, and rules. When he is in something more mainstream he tends to sometimes over-rely on stuff that was done before, which was fun in MTU but led to rehashes in Ult. XM. I liked his ANT-MAN.

He also had a run on JUBILEE, which lasted 6 issues and wasn't well recieved.

[Colossal Spoons]

I keep reading his run on UXM only out of love for my X-Men. His last arc has been really good; he must ave been saving all his talent for Apocalypse.

I'd NEVER EVER hand my comic shop guy money for a Jubilee comic book haha.

[Dread]

looks like i should get in on this, are there any trades available for it yet.

You definitely should. :up:

I keep reading his run on UXM only out of love for my X-Men. His last arc has been really good; he must ave been saving all his talent for Apocalypse.

I'd NEVER EVER hand my comic shop guy money for a Jubilee comic book haha.

I couldn't stick around for Ult. XM and even if it is good, I just don't like Kirkman's direction. I don't like that he has shoved in details from 616 that only hampered the X-franchise like time-travel when Ultimate was a chance to just get to the fundamentals. He split the team and imitated the footnote Austrialian era for what, homages? He is easily the worst writer that series has had, and I include Austen's two issue fill-in among that distinction. It is a shame as I have liked everything else of his that I have read.

[Colossal Spoons]

Would you check it out after this arc; when Kirk leaves? Some Heroes writer is takin over.

[Dread]

Would you check it out after this arc; when Kirk leaves? Some Heroes writer is takin over.

I'm not sure. I've lost interest in the Ultimate line as a whole. I just stick with UFF as a lark.

[Colossal Spoons]

USM is the only book I don't read. I'm kinda pissed at him for stealing all the good villains(Deadpool, Omega Red, etc)

[Dread]

USM is the only book I don't read. I'm kinda pissed at him for stealing all the good villains(Deadpool, Omega Red, etc)

Yeah, that was rather awkward of Bendis to use X-villains. But I guess Austen started the trend by introducing Hammerhead in his 2-issue stint on Ult. XM that introduced Gambit.

Right now Ultimate is past it's prime but has too many fans to go away for good. Kind of like Shaq. :p