BOUGHT/THOUGHT June 6, 2007

[PhotoJones]

This is a huge week. Avengers: Initiative, Invincible, Dynamo 5, Black Summer, Fear Agent, Ant-Man, New Warriors, Loners, Scalped, ect....my wallet actually shed a single tear of both joy and sorrow.

Anyway onward....

Avengers: Initiative #3 - The thing that runs through my mind after reading this is Dan Slott needs to write Spider-Man on a monthly basis. We all know this, but he really hammers it home in this book. The entire second to last page is gold.

We also get an appearance by Dr. Conners, who's less than thrilled the Initiative is planning to use his lizard formula (in the form of Komodo) on a top secret mission that he's not privvy to. It's nice to see the good doctor again.

The secret mission in question is one hell of a doozy. It's called S.P.I.N. technology (Super Power Inhibiting Nanobots), and they're adamantium tipped darts that take away a person's powers...for good. The Initiative's first target is Spider-Man (or second if you count She-Hulk), which I'm assuming is based on Stark's grudge against him. Of course, they're unsuccessful, but that doesn't make the scene any less fun to read.

Caselli's artwork contiinues to be a treat. He's perfect for this series, and you can tell he's having a good time. My one drawback is that I don't like the way he draws Ben Grimm, although he makes up for that with his take on Spider-Man. Rudoni's colors work flawlessly over the pencils. This is one solid art team.

I think at the moment, this is one of Marvel's most important books. It's THE book that showcases the aftermath of their biggest event in years. This is the one to get if you want that full flavor of the entire Marvel Universe. The continuity is amazing for contintuity hounds like myself. Slott manages to reference what's currently going on with Spider-Man, She-Hulk and what's happened to Mirage in the past. I'm eating this stuff up.

 

[PhotoJones]

New Warriors #1 - This is actually not a bad start. It's not perfect, but it's not bad. There's at least one surprise in here that you will not see coming.

The first thing I noticed while reading this is the characterization. It's very good, especially with Sofia Barrett (New X-Men's Wind Dancer, currently powerless thanks to M-Day) and her supporting cast. I actually found myself being more interested in her interaction with the people around her then the big superheroics at the center of the story. She's a simple girl, working a simple job in a big town. Somehow, Grevioux manages to make that outshine the mystery of the remaining New Warriors members. I hope these side characters aren't forgotten when the action kicks into gear.

The issue pretty much focuses on her, and the New Warriors' cryptic messages to her trying to get her to join. There's a few scenes inserted here and there of New York's Costume Division handling the aftermath of the Warriors' exploits, and references to Spider-Man and if you look close enough, the kids from Avengers: Initiative, as well as ads for Thunderbolts toys.

Oh, and that surprise? One of the Warriors is revealed. It's [BLACKOUT]Beak[/BLACKOUT]. I smiled when I read that page. It's nice to see him again, and I have to give major props to Grevioux for bringing him back. When Sofia realizes who he is, she asks all the questions I had swirling in my head, and it looks like we'll have to wait for future issues to get some answers.

Paco Medina's artwork is a good fit for the book. It's like a hybrid of Ringo and Ramos circa Crimson. Actually...let me rephrase that. The artwork is a good fit for this issue. The scenes with Sofia are light and fun, and the art reflects that with the bright colors and cheery faces. I have a feeling the tone might shift to a more serious, politcally charged book, and if that's the case, I'm not sure if Medina's the right now. For now though, it's fun to look at.

What I really came away with between this and the already reviewed Avengers: Initiative is a strong sense of continuity and direction. The latter has seriously been lacking within the Marvel Universe, and Civil War for all it's faults has been a godsend in that department. I'm also very pleased to see mutants (albeit depowered) in roles outside of the X-Mansion. It gives the Marvel Universe a sense of oneness; that everything really is happening in the same New York City, and that's really fun to read.

I was a little anxious to see how the writer of Underworld (a terrible movie, if you haven't seen it) would fare in the Marvel Universe, and I've been pleasantly surprised. I'll definitely be picking up at least the rest of this story arc.

 

[Zoken]

Avengers: The Initiative- Wow, I love Dan. His Spider-Man and Rogues were great, also the emotions show through in these character's dialogues. Casselli's art is so amazing and wonderful, also helping those emotions to burst through.

Spoiler

What's really gets me is the "Scarlet Spiders". I was offended on behalf of Peter Parker. I want to harm Tony for calling them that. Pisses me off to high hell. Oh, and why do they have four waldoes each when Spidey only got three?

New Warriors:
Wow, I like this. it's slow, but I like that, it's working for me. The art is good, familiar, but good. Kind of nice to see some old faces again including one of my favorites. to put it alleteratively

Spoiler

BARNELL "BEAK" BOHUSK IS BACK BABY! BOOYAH!

Can't wait to see the next issue

The Loners:

Okay, a lot in this issue, I didn't see coming, I like how we rotate our narrator, getting knowledge from each Loner.

Marvel Zombies Vs. Army of Darkness:
This continues to rock and rule. there are no more words for it.

Invincible:
Not much new, yet not boring. I liked it. a good issue for people to jump in on. Good to know that the sentiment "Every comic is someone's first comic" is alive and well.

Dynamo 5:
Wow, who knew a comic book about five teenagers could make such use of Father's Day? I like it. Raises questions and developes the characters.

 

[PhotoJones]

Loners #3 - Of the three issues so far, this one was the worst. Considering the quality of the first two, that still puts it above the majority of titles on the stands. It seemed short. I think I read through the whole thing in less then 10 minutes and that's with me oogling Moline's artwork.

And the story didn't progress as much as the first two issues either. Basically, it begins in the emergancy room of a hospital and ends in the parking lot of said hospital. I dunno. It just seemed off to me.

That's not to say there weren't highlights, because there were. For one, Penance-I mean "Hollow" returns. We're still not sure how she figures into everything, but my guess is that it's not going to be much different than what Emplate used her for in Generation X. Something else that stands out is what might be Phil's build up to putting on the Goblin threads again. He's been having some control issues lately, and it looks like that's where he's headed.

This still remains one of Marvel's better ideas for a "team" book, and that credit can equally be shared with BKV and Cebulski. Cebulski's got a very good handle on the character's and their motivations. He's not reinventing the wheel, just expanding upon it which is refreshing to see in a writer.

 

[Kevin]

took you jackholes long enough to make this thread.

 

[Marcdachamp]

Avengers: The Initiative- PICK OF THE WEEK! Man, what a book. Slott and Caselli are killing on this title. The art is great, the characters diverse and entertaining... This book really is one of the best things to come out of Civil War. 9/10

New Warriors- Slow start, but a good one. I love the premise, and I love one of the book's characters already. This could be a big surprise. Here's hoping. 8/10

Ant-Man- Kirkman loves the Wii. Eh, who doesn't? Another good issue. I really hope this little book keeps getting its chance. Eric really has some great conflicts that are gonna hit a boiling point very soon. Makes for great reading. Nice Mini Marvels back up, too. 8/10

Marvel Zombies/AoD- I love this mini, but I just can't get into the AoD elements as much. Maybe it's because I just don't have any real connection to it. Have to wonder how this mini will end, though. 7/10

Dark Tower- I like this book, but I find it really hard to follow. Beautiful art, but I get really lost so often. 7/10

I also just finished Watchmen. Damn. Gotta let it all sink in, but figured I'd get some thoughts in, first.

I love and hate the ending. The bad guy wins, but there's a bittersweet hope.

The context is so strange. I find myself wondering exactly what Moore was going for. With V for Vendetta, there is a timeless indictment of political power in its highest form. Both works question acts that seem to be for the greater good, which is interesting, but in V for Vendetta, we, as readers, really side with V, the one that kills to bring about the greater good. Interesting.

What was Moore's motivation for the changed history? Was he attempting to differentiate this world of heroes from our own, or show us the impact that weapons (in all of their forms) could have upon our history?

What do you guys think of the Watchmen movie? Do you think Hollywood can do it justice?

 

[PhotoJones]

Dynamo 5 #4 - Yeah, I think I was right. Last month, I predicted that this title hit it's stride. Issue four is even better than three, and if this track continues Dynamo 5 is going to be one hell of a book.

It's all about the characters. Characters, characters, characters. It is the Holy Grail of storytelling, and Faerber knows this. It's only been four issues, and already the kids are showing signs of growth. They're even getting along better like a, you know...family.

All that and it's Father's Day. I wonder if Faerber was smart enough to plan the book around the real time holiday, or if things just worked out that way. Whichever it is, the book gives an interesting take on it. What would your first Father's Day be like knowing that your "real" father is a stranger (and seemingly dead one, at that)? It's tough and awkward, but they soldier through it. I like these kids.

I specify "seemingly" because the mystery Captain Dynamo from last issue is back, and he's saving people all over the city. He's so authentic, it's even got Maddie a little shaken up. We're introduced to another character, a villian: Chrysalis. It seems she might have been another of Dynamo's lovers and on the last page, we're shown that that might not have ended with Dynamo's "death".

There's a lot of mystery in this book, but none of it feels forced. Faerber seems to know exactly where the book is going, which makes his pacing very strong and natural. Asrar's artwork continues to shine. He's good at making the characters have individual traits instead of using cookie cutter character designs (say that three times fast).

If you're already reading this book, then you already know it's one of the most enjoyable books out there. If you're not, then shame on you. You really have no excuse to not be reading this. We've all got at least one book on our pull list that isn't worth a damn. Due yourself a favor and drop a bad book to pick this one up. I can promise you that you won't regret it.

 

[PhotoJones]

took you jackholes long enough to make this thread.

Hey no one was holding you back from reviewing some books, were they?

 

[Kevin]

I'm forever broke.

 

[PhotoJones]

Then get a job.

 

[PhotoJones]

The Robert Kirkman Double Header!!
​

Invincible #42 - I read this book and then my mind goes blank when I'm trying to write a review. It's like, "How can I express everything that is good in the world in comic book form?" Reviewing this title is...pointless? It's not like you can find flaws. There are none. This book is literally perfect. If you've ever wanted to pick it up but haven't, now's your time. It's a dollar cheaper, and it's got several pages in the back that recap the entire series thus far.

One thing: I can't wait until the first Mark/Oliver team up.

Irredeemable Ant-Man #9 - Well, it didn't take long for Eric to screw things up with Abby. To be fair, she kinda did deserve...maybe a little bit. I'd be upset if my girlfriend of, we'll call it a month, didn't tell me about her son. I don't think I'd be upset so much at the fact that there's now a kid, but the fact that she felt the need to hide it from me. I think Eric felt the same way times 100. I really hope he can patch things up. It would be tough, but I liked reading where he was going. I liked the brief 50% less dickhole Eric.

The Black Fox thing is admirable for no other reason then Kirkman's brought another character out of obscurity. Other than that, I'm kind of growing tired of him. Thankfully his presence is limited. I DO like Monstro's increased role. He's such a tragic character, and a hell of a good role model for Eric. I'm glad to see Kirkman was able to find a place for him in the Marvel Universe. I also liked Eric's way of getting around the Registration. It seemed a little forced, but still clever.

This is still Marvel's most fun book. I know it's just about hopeless, but I really do not want this series to end. It's such a great take on SHIELD, as well as Marvel's New York in general. It's silly, but it almost makes me resent the people that aren't picking it up. I don't want to sound like an elitist, but too many people read garbage while genuinely great books like this are left to flounder until they're axed. I know people are going to read what they like but...damn...show some taste once in a while, you know? Who are you out there picking up Wolverine: Origins every month, putting it in the Top 100?

 

[Kevin]

Then get a job.

It doesn't start until next month.

 

[PhotoJones]

Black Summer #0 - If you're a Republican, a fiscal conservative, a neo-con, a social conservative, a capitalist, a religious person, a Bush fan or just plain old pro-war, then don't read this. You would do well to just pretend like it does not exist and do not even think about.

But if you're not one of those things...you need to pick this up. It's spectacular.

 

[Ikaris-Eternal]

hafta second the feelings on invincible 42 - solid ish all around, but more of a
"jumping-on" point than anything. at 2 bucks, you'll hear absolutely no complaints from me

Buffy #4 - i could maybe nitpick a couple plot points, but the fact that i was literally on the edge of my seat while reading it trumps any negatives. for a fan of the show, this series has been absolute candy.

 

[Kevin]

Was Invincible only cheaper for one issue?

 

[PhotoJones]

Daredevil: Battlin' Jack Murdock #1 - I'll admit, when I first heard about this, I laughed. It honestly sounded...terrible. Then I saw some preview art and read some interviews and it started to warm a little bit to me. I already had a big stack of comics on the table today and figured one more wouldn't do me any worse, so I threw this one in.

I like it. It's a story that we already know, but that's okay. It's very...human. There's a lot going on in Jack's head and it's all relatable without being cliched. It's co-written by Zeb Wells (rising star) and Carmine Di Giandomenico (never heard of him) with Carmine providing the art (colors included). The art is fantastic. It's like Caselli and Kaare Andrews had a love child. I even see hints of Frank Miller. Not only do the words give the book that down to earth feel, the colors and backgrounds do the same. It feels like a Ron Howard movie, you know? That timeless, human emotion type of thing.

One of my other thoughts upon first hearing about this was that no one is going to buy it. Sadly, I think that's going to remain true.

 

[PhotoJones]

Was Invincible only cheaper for one issue?

Yes, to encourage new readers to come aboard.

 

[Marcdachamp]

Daredevil: Battlin' Jack Murdock #1 - I'll admit, when I first heard about this, I laughed. It honestly sounded...terrible. Then I saw some preview art and read some interviews and it started to warm a little bit to me. I already had a big stack of comics on the table today and figured one more wouldn't do me any worse, so I threw this one in.

I like it. It's a story that we already know, but that's okay. It's very...human. There's a lot going on in Jack's head and it's all relatable without being cliched. It's co-written by Zeb Wells (rising star) and Carmine Di Giandomenico (never heard of him) with Carmine providing the art (colors included). The art is fantastic. It's like Caselli and Kaare Andrews had a love child. I even see hints of Frank Miller. Not only do the words give the book that down to earth feel, the colors and backgrounds do the same. It feels like a Ron Howard movie, you know? That timeless, human emotion type of thing.

One of my other thoughts upon first hearing about this was that no one is going to buy it. Sadly, I think that's going to remain true.

I'm trade-waiting. I always find that stories like this work better in that format. Daredevil: Father, for example.

 

[PhotoJones]

I'm trade-waiting. I always find that stories like this work better in that format. Daredevil: Father, for example.

Daredevil: Father didn't work because Joe never found the time to do it. I don't think this is going to suffer from lateness.

 

[Darthphere]

I don't think Battlin Jack Murdock will work because it's a stupid and boring premise.

 

[PhotoJones]

Did you read it?

 

[Darthphere]

What part of premise did you fail to understand? I know you have to start an argument with everyone about everything, but at least read the ****ing post you're trying to start an argument with. Yeesh.

 

[PhotoJones]

What part of premise did you fail to understand? I know you have to start an argument with everyone about everything, but at least read the ****ing post you're trying to start an argument with. Yeesh.

Dude, what the ****?

I just asked if you read it...

 

[Marcdachamp]

Daredevil: Father didn't work because Joe never found the time to do it. I don't think this is going to suffer from lateness.

Either way, I think it was a great read as a trade. It's lateness will cause many to avoid it short term, but it's one of the best Daredevil stories I've read outside of Miller and Bendis.

 

[Eros]

I have to agree with Darthphere. Anyway I don't want comics about the deceased parents of superheroes to become a regular thing.