Bought/Thought Aug. 23rd 2006 *SPOILERS AS ALWAYS*

[PWN3R]

I must say the cover to AXM was rather nice.

 

[hippy fascist]

I must say the cover to AXM was rather nice.

Is it just me or is this the hottest version of Kitty so far

 

[PWN3R]

Was Heroes for Hire #1 any good?

Alright since I knew you guys have been waiting:

52 #16


I dunno what it is. I am really enjoying this series. I know we haven’t really learned anything that big, and some plots disappear for weeks, but with every issue, I can’t wait for the next. It was much better than last week.

8/10


Batman #656

Ah Morrison, you can write anything really, and fanboys all across the, to quote Stephen Colbert, “internets” would go ape nuts over it. And if my comic shop is any indication, they apparently are. This issue was sold out when I got their at 3:30, good thing I have it on my list. Much better than last issue, and I don’t care what any of you guys say, I like the Ninja Man Bats. The art is great, and the last page was a kick. Solid issue, although its not ground breaking earth shattering must read stuff. But that could change soon.

8/10


Justice League of America #1

It is finally here, the new JLA. It opens up exactly where issue #0 ends. This books is looking good, I enjoyed it a lot, although I am worried it is going to take at least 6 issues until we see the team together. Red Tornado looks to be the focus of the first arc, and while I have never cared about “Reddy” I wasn’t bored by this issue which focused on him a lot. And also, Billy and Power Girl on the team is sweet.

8/10

Wonder Woman #2

Good god this book is finally here. And as good as it was, there is only 3 issues with Alan left. It starts of with Dianna spying on Donna and lamo Cassie, Bruce shows up to offer her a “job”. The art is great, although some shots were odd, like Robin’s face.This issue was great. I liked the cheesy twist into Wonder Woman at the end.

9/10

Batman & The Mad Monk #1

Monster Men was so supercalifrajalisticexpialiducious, I had high high hopes for The Mad Monk. Did this issue deliver? Heck yeah. This is looking to be another fantastic early tale of Batman, and it always ties in nicely to Monster Men. I liked that a lot. Wagner’s art is so great. It is so clean yet gritty, so old school yet looks totally new. It was great, it had action, mystery, do yourself a favor and pick this up.

10/10

Eternals #3

I’m kinda shocked out how much of Civil War related material is in this. It is clear that this is happening during Civil War. Iron Man is more than just a guest start in this, he is everywhere. I remember reading a post on here a while back, someone was saying about how Sersi was a former Avenger, and wouldn’t she remember that? So I guess this issue answers that, Sersi doesn’t recall having powers or being an Avengers, and that doesn’t Tony when he comes asking her to register. I am really enjoying this issue, although I don’t get why its $3.99.

9/10

New Avengers #23

Of course we all know that New Avenger sucks. Darth likes to say this over and over. But no one can arugue the fact that all the Civil War tie-ins, starting with Cap’s, then Luke’s, now Jessica’s have been superb. I mean this issue was awesome. Although as one of you said, Tony is always finding new ways to prove he is a moron. Triple agents, Fury bots, explosions, and oh yeah Coipel’s art is so great. Excellent issue. (its been weird saying that every month about NA.)

9/10

Ultimates Annual #2

This was the best Annual yet IMO. Although I won’t lie, it was awkward. As you all know it takes place AFTER Ultimates 2, which we most likely won’t see the end till December (hey I can wish). Seeing the wreckage (was that the new Iron Man suit?) and Cap trying to put back the pieces was cool, but sort of felt empty because we don’t know how he and the Ultimates won. We do learn that Quicksilver is going to survive. Charlie was good on this, and my respect for him has gone up since Chuck Berry was in this. What has Chuck Berry got to do with the story? Nothing. But he is in a panel and I thought that was awesome.

Fun issue, mostly good Cap fun, not a must read, but still enjoyable.

8/10

Wolverine #45

Wolverine throws down with Namor. The same Namor that threw down with the one big mad green guy. Basically Wolverine is an Eternal/Celestial/Omega Mutant/Super Solider/Weapon X/ God/ Last of Krypton combined. I think people need to let Wolverine disappear for a few years. Maybe all these writer will loose their hard ons for him. This issue brought up a plot involving the CEO of Damage Control. According to Namor, he is the one who doped of Nitro to explode in Stamford. I dunno know if this will tie in to the main book or not, and I don’t see how Namor was so patient with Wolverine. All that aside, I kinda enjoyed it.

7/10

Ultimate Spider-Man #99

It is funny, Joe Q has been saying all over in interviews(due to the Spiderman unmasking) that Ultimate Spiderman is for fans who want classic Spiderman/Secret Idenity fun. In this issue, Peter tells Aunt May he is Spiderman. LOL. Gwen is back, MJ is with some wacked out Peter with a messed up face, the FF has scorpion Peter, and Peter’s dad shows up. Yes you can call this issue crazy.

8/10

Daredevil #88

Oh sweet sweet Daredevil, how I have loved you from month to month, never leave me mkay?

Another great issue. New artist David Aja fills in, and his has got a very Maleev/Lark style. Can’t wait to see his work in the new Iron Fist. This was a Foggy issue, and I thought it was going to be filler, but this was good filler. It touched up on things from the last arc, while hinting at what may be to come. I love this book.

9/10

Astonishing X-Men #16


“Yeahbuhwhat?”



I can honestly say I did not see that coming. And the same goes for the “destroyer of worlds”. I thought for sure it would be Kitty. Being a huge Colossus fan, I really love Whedon, he not only brought him back to life, he has made him a destroyer of worlds.

As for Emma, I really don’t know what is happening. And for once Joe Q better keep is mouth shut, I am shocked we didn’t already know of this through some dumb solicit. If only Marvel could be so secretive about other books.

9/10

 

[Doc Destruction]

i definetely need glasses

completely didnt see her in the scene where they go to pickup roy.

now if only hawkgirl appeared in this issue....

HOW could you miss it? Holy monkey!

 

[Dread]

Dear Dread,

You are totally wrong about this issue of Astonishing X-Men. It was fantastic. Iffeminate child Logan hasn't worn thin, it was great. Kitty's "huh" shot was perfection in a panel. I read it 20 minutes ago and now I have just grabbed it to re-read it after your post. Just so you know, it appears to me a brilliant beacon of quality against the vast sea of your whiny text. I think your choice to forego paragraphs in favor of screen-length blocks of text really accentuates the massive downer that accompanies reading your reviews.

Ever your lovehole,

Jake

My opinion on ASTONISHING X-MEN #16 is just that, my opinion. Everyone will feel differently about it, such as the "emasculated Logan" bit. I was initially amused by it last issue because, well, as the "archetype for maniless" that the furry midget has become, you rarely see him this swishy (even when telepaths muck with his head), but by the time it started again this issue it got old. I didn't say the issue was BAD, not at all. It just obviously is a set-up issue, and with a bi-monthly schedule, set-up issues read worse then they are when you first get them. It'll read better all together, but all stories do, so that doesn't count.

The theory of "all of it being Frost going bonkers" is an interesting one that I hadn't thought of, but if so, then this simply was another arc of an X-book of, "The X-Men never leave their Mansion, crap happens" which is so overplayed that I'd almost want a reappearence of Magneto, teamed up with Norman Osborn, in comparison. Yes, THAT overplayed. Stories that end in "just a dream" basically are overdone and usually worthless, meant as excuses for why hardcore stuff can be negated (just look at DALLAS for that classic example). Whedon has already tried writing an overdone story with DANGER and while I can live, somewhat, with him endlessly homaging the 80's, I don't want this to be another "dream/psychic illusion" story unless he just so happened to be able to do what countless other writers who've done this sort of story fail to do or something. Almost every plotline in life has been done, the trick is finding that one hook or twist somewhere to make your own. As overrated as DANGER was, I'm not holding my breath.

I agree with someone that his "original" villians Danger and Ord aren't the best, but I won't fault him too much as original villians are not easy. Was JMS's Morlun anything to write home about? How about The Collective? They're not easy for any writer and Whedon's not the first to run into some issues. At least Ord is a fun tanker for Colossus to box, and Danger is not only potent, but an interesting design for Cassaday to draw.

Just with agrueably the best roster in an X-book, one'd hope that more would happen. The next ASTONISHING arc looks to be explosive, but all that says to me is, "why am I bothering wading through THIS one to get to it?" Writers do that all the time and I hate it. "I'll build up something awesome, but first I'll string you along with something mediocre in comparison!" Gah! Especially when even fans of some of Whedon's TV shows have criticized him of wasting heaps of episodes to "build to the good stuff". And all this is magnified when you have a 2 month gap. This is something that, say, JUSTICE at this point has done a better time with.

That said, I again state that I like the fact that ASTONISHING is better able to keep secrets and have some bonafide twists here and there than a lot of other books. And naturally even with a confusing, set-up or overdone story, Whedon and Cassaday can make it look and read better. And it's the only 616 X-book that I'm reading at all, so that has to count for something.

To each their own, of course.

More notes:

- I agree with Brainiac 8 that ANNIHILATION #1 was good and deserves more attention. The entire event has had more wholesome hero stuff then CW at times to me, and instead of come classic characters being mutilated or going about personality-altering changes (Reed, Stark, both acting more like the very villians they've been fighting, and for Stark that's saying something), in ANNIHILATION you have classic characters being revisioned to greatness like Drax or stepping up like Nova. Considering I'm hardly a space buff and I'm liking it, I'd recommend it. Shame it's not getting as much promotion.

- As for Morrison's BATMAN, I'm not saying it's "dross" or something, just that in comparison to Dini's DETECTIVE and now Wagner's MAD MONK, and considering this is DC's equalivent to a NEW AVENGERS-esque creative team and title, it's underwhelming. I understand Morrison's points about how in the last decade Batman's at times been almost borderline psychotic, but the fact remains that that "brooding grimness" that came on in the 70's-80's made him a lot more interesting. It would be like if a new writer on DAREDEVIL wanted to return him to the "wisecracking, acrobatic poor man's Spider-Man" that he was circa the 60's and 70's may times. DD found his niche as a gritty hero in gritty urban noir stories, and would be less interesting to many if you had him wisecracking while fighting Asborbing Man again. I feel the same with Batman. That darkness is part of his appeal. There can be a happy medium, of course, which can be best shown in the JUSTICE LEAGUE/JLU cartoons, but I'm not seeing that in Morrison. His Wayne is snarky and has sitcom-like bickering with Alfred, and his Batman is in "standard superhero mode" that a half dozen "karate and gadget" heroes could do. That said, I liked this issue better than the first, namely because of the action and the neat trick with the art gallery. I still think "Ninja Man-Bats" are something right out of a Saturday Morning Cartoon. But, what do I know? I don't heap praise on any book with a ninja or a gorilla like WIZARD does.

- I can harp on DC too when warrented, I simply read less of it and am less immersed in the universe. I will say that despite the fact that IDENTITY CRISIS was good as a whole, they made the trend of "attaching dispicable backstories onto old-style 'goofy' characters to apologize for Silver Age hamminess" popular. From making rape "in" again to turning Maxwell Lord from an excentric businessman to Satanic supervillian, DC made this sort of thing game. Naturally, Marvel is going to follow suit, and now we have Mr. Fantastic looking more like a stretchy Nazi yes-man and Damage Control, the "sitcom" of the MU about to be turned into another piece of your "evil corporations/governments/conspiracies-are-trendy" sort of stories.

- I did actually like USM #99, I claimed it was a "B" book in my review, and if "B" is bad, then I want to see all of your grade school report cards. I just feel it could be better and because I was actually initially jazzed about CLONE SAGA, I was very irked when Joe Q and Marvel just went about with spoilers on it last issue. With other books and writers I can understand, Marvel doesn't give a fig about you unless you can pull a 6 figure readership, but Bendis is their #1 guy! Out of all writers whose work should be given more leeway, you'd think it'd be him. You'd think his work'd be safe, as it is from his teet that Marvel's been suckling for years. But no, it's not. He's game to have his mysteries undermined before they see print just the same as Brubaker or anyone else. That irks me.

Plus, CLONE SAGA is hitting a point of no return and it getting very complicated, which depending on the next chapters will either justify it or we'll just have Nick Fury and the Ultimates come in to save the day and explain everything, which'd really, REALLY suck (because "having an outside source show up, solve the problem with zero effort and explain everything to the hero(s)" is an ending that Bendis has done WAY too often that needs to bloody stop). Still, no USM storyline has gotten me to anticipate issues as readily in ages (even when I was buying it in trade), so that says something. USM was a book I liked more than the 616 Spider-Man books because it kept his forumla. No, I don't mean high school; I never had an issue with Peter in college or grad school or even just out working. By formula I mean the fact that Peter actually has a seperate social life from being Spider-Man, and his heroic life causes hassles with his personal one. That's been his draw for generations, because it works. But once you merge both lives into one, like CW has done to 616, then he becomes less interesting and more generic. I would hope for Bendis to steer "his baby" into so deep a corner. I hope it'll pay off.

Still, at this point I'd probably say that USM is better than Kirkman's Ultimate X-Men so far. With Millar gone from UFF, we'll see how Carey stacks up. Carey's stories for UFF in his 2 issue fill-in, the annual, and the UX4 series are good & fun, just not as snazzy as Millar's were.

 

[Brainiac 8]

I agree with Brainiac 8 that ANNIHILATION #1 was good and deserves more attention. The entire event has had more wholesome hero stuff then CW at times to me, and instead of come classic characters being mutilated or going about personality-altering changes (Reed, Stark, both acting more like the very villians they've been fighting, and for Stark that's saying something), in ANNIHILATION you have classic characters being revisioned to greatness like Drax or stepping up like Nova. Considering I'm hardly a space buff and I'm liking it, I'd recommend it. Shame it's not getting as much promotion.

This is what I'm saying Dread. There are many people knocking Annihilation because the enemies are kinda generic, and the main badguy is a second string FF villian, but what they don't see is that's not the point.

They are bringing back characters long forgotten by most modern comic book readers. Nova, who was kinda a B hero to begin with, is really stepping into his own as a leader, to the point that he gained the respect of Drax, which is not something that happens often. They are bringing Thanos back to being the big intergalactic badguy that he used to be.

Plus it has been way to long since Silver Surfer has been around. He used to be one of the heavy hitters of Marvel, I hope he will be again. Then for once we are getting new characters and they are interesting creations. The Galactus battle was exciting and really showed you the power that the heros are going to be up against.

Unlike you Dread, I grew up reading alot of the cosmic books, and I hadn't realized how much I missed those characters until this story came out. But Civil War came, and suddenly Annihilation was not a big thing to advertise any longer...and THAT SUCKS. That is the lamest thing that Marvel can do.

Personally I enjoyed the first issue of Annihilation better than the first three of Civil War, and I think it is the whole feel of it. We have epic battles and the heros and villians are acting in character. In CW, like you said, we have hero fighting hero, hero acting like villians, and other heroes whole ideals stripped to fit the story.

Peter Parker would not, and I repeat WOULD NOT reveal his identity because some big shot says he should. And his family would not have pushed him into doing it. It alienates the readers that continue to stick with Marvel and their characters. It's just lame, that's all I can say.

Annihilation though, if you haven't picked it or the minis up yet, do so, your missing out. Let Marvel know we appreciate real story and character development. Not character switches to fit the story at hand.

Plus I hated Ronan, and in one issue I'm on his side...that has to say something.

 

[hippy fascist]

This is what I'm saying Dread. There are many people knocking Annihilation because the enemies are kinda generic, and the main badguy is a second string FF villian, but what they don't see is that's not the point.

They are bringing back characters long forgotten by most modern comic book readers. Nova, who was kinda a B hero to begin with, is really stepping into his own as a leader, to the point that he gained the respect of Drax, which is not something that happens often. They are bringing Thanos back to being the big intergalactic badguy that he used to be.

Plus it has been way to long since Silver Surfer has been around. He used to be one of the heavy hitters of Marvel, I hope he will be again. Then for once we are getting new characters and they are interesting creations. The Galactus battle was exciting and really showed you the power that the heros are going to be up against.

Unlike you Dread, I grew up reading alot of the cosmic books, and I hadn't realized how much I missed those characters until this story came out. But Civil War came, and suddenly Annihilation was not a big thing to advertise any longer...and THAT SUCKS. That is the lamest thing that Marvel can do.

Personally I enjoyed the first issue of Annihilation better than the first three of Civil War, and I think it is the whole feel of it. We have epic battles and the heros and villians are acting in character. In CW, like you said, we have hero fighting hero, hero acting like villians, and other heroes whole ideals stripped to fit the story.

Peter Parker would not, and I repeat WOULD NOT reveal his identity because some big shot says he should. And his family would not have pushed him into doing it. It alienates the readers that continue to stick with Marvel and their characters. It's just lame, that's all I can say.

Annihilation though, if you haven't picked it or the minis up yet, do so, your missing out. Let Marvel know we appreciate real story and character development. Not character switches to fit the story at hand.

Plus I hated Ronan, and in one issue I'm on his side...that has to say something.

To be fair though launching two massive events at the same time was just stupid scheduling. One was always gonna get underplayed and surprise surprise the one with the least issues that will therefore generate the least $$$ is the one that suffers. They should have either started it earlier or waited till civil war was out of the way.

 

[Phaedrus45]

My comic shop didn't get Heroes For Hire #1 in yet. Anyone else have this problem?

 

[hippie_hunter]

I think that Whedon is throwing us off. Until it actually happens. I still think that Jean will be the destroyer of the Breakworld.

 

[hippy fascist]

it's gonna be kitty, watch this space

 

[Darthphere]

Justice League of America #1- Or, the first issue of "Go get 'em Roy". Ive *****ed about the line-up but now the real *****ing begins........maybe not since the team isnt even assembled yet. I liked the issue as everyone got their own little spotlight. Ima big Roy Harper fanboy and glad to see him in the League again. The Hal/Roy scene at the boxing ring was great, loved every second of this issue. If Meltzer can keep this up, we'll be ok. And some people say that the League is forming behind the big 3's back, but it may not be the case I think, its all pretty vague. Meltzer knows how to write characters and dialogue, but if JLA is anything its a book for some epic battles, I dont think we'll get the full grasp or feel for his JLA until we see them in action and hopefully none of that IC Deathstroke crap. Benes art was good, not really my favorite artist but he'll be fine. Overall I give this book 9 PWN3R RANGERS out of 10.

Eternals #3 (of 6)-I freaking love this title and Neil Gaiman is really going all out in this. I think I know where theyre going and then I dont. Its keeping me on my toes and I like that. The scenes with Mark Curry and Thena were amazing, and John Romita Jr. is really doing some of his best work ever on this book. The last page leaves me wanting more, what are theyre plans? Who is they? Why does this book rock so much? Why am i asking so many questions? I give this book an: 8.5 Dread's out of 10.

52 Week #16-Quite possibly the best issue yet. Black Adam and Isis get married and Billy and Mary Marvel, and Freddy as well are in attendance. Meanhwile, Montoya and "Charlie" (ugh.) are holed up in a train after escaping from prison and Montoya somehow figures a bomber is up to no good, thankfully she has a gun and is able to stop the bomber from ruining Black Adam's wedding. And in a set-up portion the Lost in Space gang lift-off and no doubt will run into Lobo next issue. Also, another origin I didnt bother reading (thanks Wikipedia ). 8 Brian Willy's out of 10

Batman #656-Grant Morrison continues his tale of Batman;s son with a interlude that includes ninja Man-Bats. Yeah, Ninja Man-Bats. The issue was entertaining, the dialogue crisp and charming and Morrison continues to play it straight, even with, Ninja Man-Bats, say it all together now, Ninja Man-Bats. The best part of the issue was Kubert's art (I forget which one, the one with an A) as he uses pop art references for his breakdowns and panel layouts. Excellently drawn issue. Makes me wish Steranko would do a Bat title, or another one, not sure Elijya? Anyway this issue gets: 9 Leaguer's out of 10.

Astonishing X-Men #16-Ok WTF? White Queen, im confuzzled, either way solid issue. Wolverine as little James Howlett is great, but James Howlett was a sick boy not a huge *****. Either way Kitty kicks ass, and plot points are further developed. Nothing really spectacular or to write home about as I feel this arc has been somewhat underwhelming. Either way, a good, solid issue. 8 Not Jakes out of 10.

More to come.....

 

[Not Jake]

My opinion on ASTONISHING X-MEN #16 is just that, my opinion. Everyone will feel differently about it, such as the "emasculated Logan" bit. I was initially amused by it last issue because, well, as the "archetype for maniless" that the furry midget has become, you rarely see him this swishy (even when telepaths muck with his head), but by the time it started again this issue it got old. I didn't say the issue was BAD, not at all. It just obviously is a set-up issue, and with a bi-monthly schedule, set-up issues read worse then they are when you first get them. It'll read better all together, but all stories do, so that doesn't count.

The theory of "all of it being Frost going bonkers" is an interesting one that I hadn't thought of, but if so, then this simply was another arc of an X-book of, "The X-Men never leave their Mansion, crap happens" which is so overplayed that I'd almost want a reappearence of Magneto, teamed up with Norman Osborn, in comparison. Yes, THAT overplayed. Stories that end in "just a dream" basically are overdone and usually worthless, meant as excuses for why hardcore stuff can be negated (just look at DALLAS for that classic example). Whedon has already tried writing an overdone story with DANGER and while I can live, somewhat, with him endlessly homaging the 80's, I don't want this to be another "dream/psychic illusion" story unless he just so happened to be able to do what countless other writers who've done this sort of story fail to do or something. Almost every plotline in life has been done, the trick is finding that one hook or twist somewhere to make your own. As overrated as DANGER was, I'm not holding my breath.

I agree with someone that his "original" villians Danger and Ord aren't the best, but I won't fault him too much as original villians are not easy. Was JMS's Morlun anything to write home about? How about The Collective? They're not easy for any writer and Whedon's not the first to run into some issues. At least Ord is a fun tanker for Colossus to box, and Danger is not only potent, but an interesting design for Cassaday to draw.

Just with agrueably the best roster in an X-book, one'd hope that more would happen. The next ASTONISHING arc looks to be explosive, but all that says to me is, "why am I bothering wading through THIS one to get to it?" Writers do that all the time and I hate it. "I'll build up something awesome, but first I'll string you along with something mediocre in comparison!" Gah! Especially when even fans of some of Whedon's TV shows have criticized him of wasting heaps of episodes to "build to the good stuff". And all this is magnified when you have a 2 month gap. This is something that, say, JUSTICE at this point has done a better time with.

That said, I again state that I like the fact that ASTONISHING is better able to keep secrets and have some bonafide twists here and there than a lot of other books. And naturally even with a confusing, set-up or overdone story, Whedon and Cassaday can make it look and read better. And it's the only 616 X-book that I'm reading at all, so that has to count for something.

To each their own, of course.

Look...just insult me, I'm not reading this.

 

[Dread]

This is what I'm saying Dread. There are many people knocking Annihilation because the enemies are kinda generic, and the main badguy is a second string FF villian, but what they don't see is that's not the point.

They are bringing back characters long forgotten by most modern comic book readers. Nova, who was kinda a B hero to begin with, is really stepping into his own as a leader, to the point that he gained the respect of Drax, which is not something that happens often. They are bringing Thanos back to being the big intergalactic badguy that he used to be.

Plus it has been way to long since Silver Surfer has been around. He used to be one of the heavy hitters of Marvel, I hope he will be again. Then for once we are getting new characters and they are interesting creations. The Galactus battle was exciting and really showed you the power that the heros are going to be up against.

Unlike you Dread, I grew up reading alot of the cosmic books, and I hadn't realized how much I missed those characters until this story came out. But Civil War came, and suddenly Annihilation was not a big thing to advertise any longer...and THAT SUCKS. That is the lamest thing that Marvel can do.

Personally I enjoyed the first issue of Annihilation better than the first three of Civil War, and I think it is the whole feel of it. We have epic battles and the heros and villians are acting in character. In CW, like you said, we have hero fighting hero, hero acting like villians, and other heroes whole ideals stripped to fit the story.

Peter Parker would not, and I repeat WOULD NOT reveal his identity because some big shot says he should. And his family would not have pushed him into doing it. It alienates the readers that continue to stick with Marvel and their characters. It's just lame, that's all I can say.

Annihilation though, if you haven't picked it or the minis up yet, do so, your missing out. Let Marvel know we appreciate real story and character development. Not character switches to fit the story at hand.

Plus I hated Ronan, and in one issue I'm on his side...that has to say something.

FYI, I don't mind "generic" villians if they're entertaining at least. Chronok from MTU's "League of Losers" was fairly simple, but I liked him anyway. I mean you need them to offset your more sympathetic villians or whatnot. Besides, these are "cosmic" enemies, whose motives and emotional states would be altered from human understanding. Thanos has no need for daddy issues when he worships Death herself.

The only mini I got was NOVA and I enjoyed the heck out of it (even after Quasar died; I wasn't a big fan of his). Could anyone have imagined a former B-List FF villian like Annihilus moving up the charts into a Thanos-worthy bad-arse? I've even considered getting DRAX in trade as well. Wasn't a big Surfer fan, but the NOVA CORPS FILES got me all caught it. That thing's essential if anyone missed some of the mini's. I really hope Nova survives the whole shebang, because he'll leave it a far greater hero than he was entering it (after yet another sub-par NEW WARRIORS run, no less. Least he got in some good moments in MTU's TITANNUS WAR).

To be fair though launching two massive events at the same time was just stupid scheduling. One was always gonna get underplayed and surprise surprise the one with the least issues that will therefore generate the least $$$ is the one that suffers. They should have either started it earlier or waited till civil war was out of the way.

Fair point. CIVIL WAR was obviously going to be the bigger event out of the two, encompassing the entire Marvel universe and starring more "big name" heroes. Hey, as cool as Nova, Drax, and Surfer are in ANNIHILATION, they can't hold up to Spider-Man, Iron Man, New Avengers, Cap, etc.

That said, I think it started around when PRELUDE was going on and I think running it concurrently isn't a bad idea as there are going to be SOME readers who may want a break from CW crossovers and read other stuff, like BEYOND! or HULK. Some could say that ANNIHILATION did get some buzz, as you had titles starring C-list characters like Ronan and Super-Skrull selling in the Top 80 or better, which isn't shabby at all when you consider that's not much different than Marvel's last stab at GAMBIT. NOVA and SURFER were the best selling of the lot. They got buried in CW/OYL stuff, but they still sold moderately well considering that both are hardly as popular or well known to the "general" audience since the 80's or early 90's.

Still, Marvel's capable of jazzing up interest in two things at once, even against an event. Look at the hype that USM #100 has been getting for months. I haven't been reading PLANET HULK in HULK's book, does anyone think involving that with ANNIHILATION, at least for an issue or so, would have been interesting or tedious? I have no opinion so I'm curious. Some could say, "No, Hulk'd overshadow Drax, Surfer, Nova, etc" but I just mean, maybe some Annihilation bugs landed on Planet Hulk for an issue or Surfer notices that his "Old Defenders ally" is conviently off planet for the crisis, or whatever.

Plus, it wasn't immediately clear for a while that RANN/THANAGARIAN WAR over at DC, then a sequal to ADAM STRANGE, would become part of IC, but they heavilly promoted it and it sold well anyway. Of course...it was related to IC after all with Superboy-Prime "punching" through time or something. Sheesh, I want Pre-Crisis power levels, too. I'd punch through time and stop myself from selling my Nintendo.

 

[Darthphere]

Annihilation blows Civil War out of the water, easily. Its sad its not getting more attention.

 

[Dread]

Look...just insult me, I'm not reading this.

Then...NO SOUP FOR YOU!

That just ran across my mind.

 

[Sentry2005]

Justice League of America #1- Or, the first issue of "Go get 'em Roy". Ive *****ed about the line-up but now the real *****ing begins........maybe not since the team isnt even assembled yet. I liked the issue as everyone got their own little spotlight. Ima big Roy Harper fanboy and glad to see him in the League again. The Hal/Roy scene at the boxing ring was great, loved every second of this issue. If Meltzer can keep this up, we'll be ok. And some people say that the League is forming behind the big 3's back, but it may not be the case I think, its all pretty vague. Meltzer knows how to write characters and dialogue, but if JLA is anything its a book for some epic battles, I dont think we'll get the full grasp or feel for his JLA until we see them in action and hopefully none of that IC Deathstroke crap. Benes art was good, not really my favorite artist but he'll be fine. Overall I give this book 9 PWN3R RANGERS out of 10.

Eternals #3 (of 6)-I freaking love this title and Neil Gaiman is really going all out in this. I think I know where theyre going and then I dont. Its keeping me on my toes and I like that. The scenes with Mark Curry and Thena were amazing, and John Romita Jr. is really doing some of his best work ever on this book. The last page leaves me wanting more, what are theyre plans? Who is they? Why does this book rock so much? Why am i asking so many questions? I give this book an: 8.5 Dread's out of 10.

52 Week #16-Quite possibly the best issue yet. Black Adam and Isis get married and Billy and Mary Marvel, and Freddy as well are in attendance. Meanhwile, Montoya and "Charlie" (ugh.) are holed up in a train after escaping from prison and Montoya somehow figures a bomber is up to no good, thankfully she has a gun and is able to stop the bomber from ruining Black Adam's wedding. And in a set-up portion the Lost in Space gang lift-off and no doubt will run into Lobo next issue. Also, another origin I didnt bother reading (thanks Wikipedia ). 8 Brian Willy's out of 10

Batman #656-Grant Morrison continues his tale of Batman;s son with a interlude that includes ninja Man-Bats. Yeah, Ninja Man-Bats. The issue was entertaining, the dialogue crisp and charming and Morrison continues to play it straight, even with, Ninja Man-Bats, say it all together now, Ninja Man-Bats. The best part of the issue was Kubert's art (I forget which one, the one with an A) as he uses pop art references for his breakdowns and panel layouts. Excellently drawn issue. Makes me wish Steranko would do a Bat title, or another one, not sure Elijya? Anyway this issue gets: 9 Leaguer's out of 10.

Astonishing X-Men #16-Ok WTF? White Queen, im confuzzled, either way solid issue. Wolverine as little James Howlett is great, but James Howlett was a sick boy not a huge *****. Either way Kitty kicks ass, and plot points are further developed. Nothing really spectacular or to write home about as I feel this arc has been somewhat underwhelming. Either way, a good, solid issue. 8 Not Jakes out of 10.

More to come.....

I want a rating named after me

 

[Darthphere]

Perhaps sooner than later.

 

[Colossal Spoons]

What I dont get about Exiles this week, is that Zombie Wolverine, is supposed to be tha Wolverine from Marvel Zombies. How can that be, that Wolverine went on to eat Galactus and moved on to other planets with Giant Man, Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk, and a few others. Is this Wolverine from a parallel Earth that is very similar to the Marvel Zombie-verse?

....and where are his cosmic powers? Those would have come in handy during that brawl.

 

[Sentry2005]

Perhaps sooner than later.

Hurrah!

 

[Colossal Spoons]

Here's a another I have been able to read...

Exiles #85: This issue is more fallout from the fantastic "World Tour" arc. The Exiles have been fired and stranded on Heather Hudson's world, and the Time breakers decided a new team of Exiles are needed to finish the work of repairing the Multi-verse. So what do they do?

They make a team of characters who are the best at what they do....that's right....a team of nothing but various Wolverines! As much as Wolverine already graces too many books, Bedard found a new, unique, and downright ingenius way to use them.

The unique team dynamic presented is wonderful, each Wolverine having their own personality that tells them apart. It even has a zombified Wolvie from a very popular mini. (Chances are though, he is just from a similar universe as that mini.) It works well, especially when you see the villian the timebreakers are sending them to defeat. The villian is quite intriguing also. (He is a mixture of Wolverine, Magneto, Quicksilver, Mesmero, and Scarlet Warlock, or this universes Scarlet Witch..only male)

The team realizes that they are not the first team of Wolvies to be sent, as it is shown that the timebreaker's first Wolverine team failed, so their only answer to fix it is to send another, and another, and another. It really shows why the real Exiles work so well, and the timebreakers are so limited in imagination or creativity.

It ends with two of the Wolvies going to get the "Successful" Exiles so that they can come and save the collective that is all of the Wolverines.
It's a wonderful read, and I really hope they keep Bedard on the title, and maybe give Claremont some other project.

10 out of 10!

Eh, I think the Wolverines could have been a bit more different. The one with the patch and the main one with the jacket acted almost the same. And Weapon X Wolverine is like a wild dog.

 

[MyPokerShirt]

Question on 52: The power flux all the marvels suffered: Cap having all the power, them having none; and the madness we saw on Cap Marv's face a few issues back: where's THAT gone?? They didn't explain it! And we're supposed to just buy into this??

 

[Doc Destruction]

That happens OYL, that's why.

You read a preview of the upcoming Captain Marvel book.

 

[Manic]

Question on 52: The power flux all the marvels suffered: Cap having all the power, them having none; and the madness we saw on Cap Marv's face a few issues back: where's THAT gone?? They didn't explain it! And we're supposed to just buy into this??

About the madness: I'm thinking Marvel is only crazy when he's near the Rock of Eternity. It seems like he can hear all of the sins bickering all the time, and I just assumed he was crazy in the sense that a parent is crazy when they're surrounded by terrible children all the time.

Anyway, I just think the man needs a valium.

 

[MyPokerShirt]

That happens OYL, that's why.

You read a preview of the upcoming Captain Marvel book.

oh yeah i merged my memories. thanx. i'm gonna go take my medicine now. he was defo crazy though..

 

[MyPokerShirt]

Anyway, I just think the man needs a valium.

or 5

This joke was supplied by Brian Michael Bendis. Brian Michael Bendis(BMB), Jinxworld and Brian Michael Bendis' wife are all owned by Marvel. All uses of BMB, Jinxworld and BMB's wife must only be used with written permission by Marvel.