Bought Thought? The Dickens You Say?!... December 7, 2011

[JewishHobbit]

So I picked up the four I planned on, the one I was debating on, and one that I wasn't planning on. Here's what I thought about them....

Swamp Thing #4 - This was good but the title is starting to drag a bit. I'm not much on gross, dark books and this book fits that bill but it was interesting enough in the beginning to make me overlook that. The problem is that it's getting darker but the plot isn't really moving that quickly so I'm starting to become bored and the darkness of the book is starting to annoy me. I know a lot of people like that feel but it isn't for me. I'm still on the book but I'm thinking about dropping it in favor of some other things I'm interested in trying. I don't want to do that just yet but it is an option.

That said, the issue itself was decent but slow. I'm interested what happens but kinda want it to just get there. Sadly though, I care less and less with each issue. That's not a good thing.

X-Club #1 (of 5) - This was the issue I wasn't planning on getting. I just skimmed it on a whim and something about it just caught my eye and I debated quickly (because my wife was waiting in the car) and finally said screw it and bought it. After reading it I did find it enjoyable but I don't know if it's enough to keep me on the book. I figure I'll skim it issue by issue to decide whether I'll finish it or drop it. It also depends on how expensive the weeks it falls on are.

But it wasn't a regretable buy at least, so that's good. I really like Danger and her taking front and center here has me curious.

X-Factor #228 - I really liked this issue. I think Bloodbath is an interesting villain (though he screams '90s) and I'm curious what's going on with this Guido plot and the Madrox death/not death plot. My earlier complaint was that I was bored of all the demonic plots of late but this issue shows that that might have actually been for a reason, which makes it better.

I've jumped back onto this book of late with a fresh mindset and I think that's for the best. I suddenly, for the first time in a year or so, actually enjoy the book and am curious what's to come. I dreaded hearing Havoc and Polaris were joining the crew but now I'm excited for it.

Good issue.

X-23 #18 - Dead book walking and it's a darn shame. This is one of my favorite titles each month and it's getting the shaft since it sells higher than some of the titles that aren't being canceled. This title has given us the best Gambit in a decade, great character progression with Laura (imagine that... Marvel showing progression in a character), and great storylines.

This one's a bit light in that Laura has been forced to try her hand at babysitting Franklin and Valeria Richards only to get pulled into an adventure involving dragons and the Collector. That sounds a bit odd to me but the New X-Men fan in me loves it because it also brought Hellion along for the ride, dealing with the subplot of his and Laura's feelings for each other.

I'll honestly be sad to see this go and expect that Gage will not do as well with the character. Not that he isn't a good writer but he won't have the time to focus on her like Liu does in this title. I hope I'm wrong though because she's one of the best new characters of the past decade.

Venom #10 - Not quite as good as last issue but definately just as enjoyable. Venom vs. Captain America was good to see but my favorite scenes were with Jack O'Lantern. I really like the building rivalry between him and Flash and how Flash's loved ones are being threatened. This is definately a good book and Remender is becoming one of my favorite writers. I'm looking forward to his Secret Avengers run.

Defenders #1 - This was the book I was debating on and I ended up enjoying it. Iron Fist, my main reason for wanting it, gets some good time here and was pretty awesome in it. We also get enough time and character moments from the rest of the team to make me think Fraction might be doing a good thing here. Dodson's art was good and I look forward to seeing where the title goes from here.

Question though... the name sounds familiar but I can't place it. Who's Prester John?


Best and Worst of the Week

Best: Defenders #1 - This was nearly a 3-way tie with X-Factor and X-23 but I do think Defenders beat them out by a hair. Fraction seems to have a great grasp on all the characters and the team is very interesting. The plot was good, there was some good humor involved, and the art was great. All in all this was a very well rounded book and I'm very glad I picked it up. I'm likely on board for the long run.

Worst: Swamp Thing #4 - This series quickly became one of my favorites when it first launched but it's losing it's value at an alarming rate. I'm kinda wanting to see Swamp Thing back and the plot move forward within the next issue or two or I may be done with this title. It's a shame too because the first issue was amazing for me and I think it's maintained its consistency... I'm just losing interest in it.

 

[Themanofbat]

Prestor John is a minor Marvel villain that appeared in an early issue of the original Defenders book, as well as an early FF issue...

 

[runawayboulder]

I think Laura is only going to be with Avengers Academy for a short time. She'll end up in Westchester with Logan before it's all said and done.

 

[Shockdingo]

If that's how it has to be, I wouldn't mind so much. I briefly peeked at W&tXM#1 and it looked like a lot of fun. It reminded me of when I used to just eat up the X-men as a kid. I love Aaron's work.

 

[CrimsonMist]

While Swamp Thing was nowhere near the worst book of my week, I do agree that the pace is beginning to slow down a bit. I feel alot of the info given in this book was rehashed from the previous two books. It really needs to move forward now. I believe this arc is 7 issues. So it kind of has no choice but to pick up the pace, or atleast do something different. That said, I still really enjoyed it and my biggest problem this issue was the artwork. That isn't to say that Marco Rudy is a bad artist, but letting Rudy and two others ink his work was probably a mistake. Sean Parsons and Michael Lacombe also do inking chores and they're all inconsistent with one another. I would have preferred that Michael Lacombe do all the inking, given that he's Yannick Paquette's regular inker and that Rudy's artwork, under Lacombe's brush looked closer to Paquette than when Rudy inked himself or had it done by Parsons. However, I must say that in the two page-splash where the Parliament of Trees reveals their battles with The Rot, the artwork was very reminiscent of Rick Vietch and Alfredo Alcala's art on the title back in the 80's. Cool stuff, but I also can't help but wonder what Paquette would have done with it.

Animal Man was AWESOME however. This and Swamp Thing remain DC's two best titles(although, given how Swamp Thing seems to be teetering on the edge, Batman may take it's place...I'm not complaining.) and every month, I seem to alternate between these two for my pick of the week. Last month, it was Swamp Thing. This month it's Animal Man. The pacing is great, the tension and suspense is taut and the dread is looming ever so closely. I REALLY love Travel Foreman's artwork. It's so simple, yet so incredibly grotesque and frightening. Also, the seeds for the eventual Animal Man/Swamp Thing team-up have begun to blossom here, what the Parliament of Limbs telling Buddy Baker to seek out Alec Holland of The Green so that they might defend the world against The Rot. That made me all giddy. I can't wait for that.

All in all, Swamp Thing #4 and Animal Man #4 mirror each other in that we learn about the history of battles between The Rot and The Reed & Green. I think Animal Man, given it's pace, and the length of the arc(5 issues to Swamp Thing's 7) succeeded in pulling it off and making it the most effective.

Action Comics #4. I really don't know how to feel about this book anymore. I love the Social Crusader aspect of the character, but I don't like how quickly that became overlooked. We get an issue or two of that, a snippet of people protesting Superman and then instantly, the story becomes an Alien Invasion story that'll probably end with all of Metropolis embracing Superman as their savior. That's all good and well, but how many damn times do we need that same story? I really wish the first arc focused more explicitly on Superman as the Social Crusader and then once that arc is done, focus on the more sci-fi elements. As it is, the story up to now feels like "Superman fights for the people but who cares because the people are protesting him but who cares because aliens are invading!" Everything is so briefly touched upon that it doesn't quite achieve it's full effect. Add to it that the consequences of the end of this issue won't be dealt with until issue 7, I don't really care what happens. Because I'm not given reason to.

That said, the Steel back-up story was pretty fantastic. Brad Walker's art was great. The soft inking was nice and the coloring was really lush. It looked great and read great. I think maybe he should replace Morales on the main story's art duties. Where Rags Morales usually kicks ass, since issue 1, alot of his faces look really off. People have lazy eyes or their eye balls are uneven and faces are weird looking. I know he's a bit slow, but it feels rushed and not even his inker(Sean Parsons again) can save him.

Andy Kubert's doing art duties for the interlude arc starting next month so I may pick it up just to see that. But as it is, I don't really know how to feel about this book. It's just missing that extra dimension to it to make me care.

Punisher #6: I love this book. While the current plot isn't anything revolutionary, why should it have to be? The bride, Rachel Cole-Alves is setting out on her on war against the people that killed her family and left her for dead, which also happens to be the same people on Frank Castle's list of garbage to take out. Rucka shows how masterful he is a story-teller her, with very little dialogue being used in the second half of the book and manages to get out of his two artists(telling dual narrative stories) some really suspenseful moments. That's what makes this book work. Rucka knows how to tell a damn story and knows how to get his artists to do the same. Again, nothing revolutionary. Just damn good writing.

My biggest peeve? Bryan Hitch's covers. They suck. Especially this one: Frank Castle sliding out from under a car and shooting two guys. There is such a blank look on Franks' face that it looks more like it stemmed out of laziness than it did to show how fearless or detached Frank is. Most of the covers that Hitch has done for the series shows Frank with the same look. Add to it that the covers just aren't exciting to look at either.

 

[Blaktin America]

I think Laura is only going to be with Avengers Academy for a short time. She'll end up in Westchester with Logan before it's all said and done.

Laura joins Cyclops imo. Every team needs a Wolverine

 

[TheCorpulent1]

Avenging Spider-Man reminded me of why I used to love Spider-Man back in the day, surprisingly. That scene where Ross is all, "F*** these moloids, they initiated hostilities so they're opposition forces!" and then Spider-Man is like, "No, f*** you, guy! I'm gonna go help these little yellow bastards with or without you," and Ross is like, "You think you can actually do anything useful here on your own?" and Spider-Man's like, "Probably not, but I'm still gonna try." Awesomesauce.

 

[chamber-music]

Swamp Thing and Animal Man were once again the best books this week.

 

[JewishHobbit]

With my buy list swelling due to double shippings and with the Avengers/X-Men event next spring I decided to just cut some books I was iffy on. Just put up my Grifter, Swamp Thing, and Daredevil (Waid) comics on ebay. I'm going back and forth on selling my Justice League Dark too but I haven't decided yet.

So as good as Swamp Thing has been, after giving it a lot of thought I think I was honestly enjoying the art moreso than the story and that's not enough to maintain my buying a book with today's prices and quantity. Daredevil was the hardest one for me because I love the character but not THIS depiction of the character and after looking to the solicitations through February I just find that I am not interested in any of the stories (or a crossover with Amazing Spider-Man). So My Daredevil days officially end with Diggle.

 

[runawayboulder]

Avenging Spider-Man reminded me of why I used to love Spider-Man back in the day, surprisingly. That scene where Ross is all, "F*** these moloids, they initiated hostilities so they're opposition forces!" and then Spider-Man is like, "No, f*** you, guy! I'm gonna go help these little yellow bastards with or without you," and Ross is like, "You think you can actually do anything useful here on your own?" and Spider-Man's like, "Probably not, but I'm still gonna try." Awesomesauce.

Yeah, I love how Spider-Man was the professional there. He's been on the receiving end of talks like that by Cap (as have many) and it's nice to see him learn from it and give it to somebody else. "This isn't the military, we don't have orders. We're Avengers...it doesn't get to be that simple. Think you can be a hero without being told to?" I LOVE when writers treat him like an absolute pro and a f***ing adult.

 

[bored]

It was a nice counterpoint to how Bendis writes him, as the scared little newbie among the Avengers.

 

[Dread]

This a full week for me; 7 books in total across three companies. Let's get the reviews and spoilers underway!

DREAD'S BOUGHT/THOUGHT FOR 12/7/11: Part 1

ACTION COMICS #4: Grant Morrison and Rags Morales once again unite for another issue of the premiere Superman title. The lead story not only introduces the New 52's version of Brainiac (or "The Collector" as he calls himself), as well as John Corban as a Metallo-esque figure, but also John Henry Irons as the armored hero Steel. Sholly Fisch writes and Brad Walker draws an 8 page back-up strip which embellishes Steel after the 20 page lead story - thus, unlike previous issues, this offers 28 pages of story for $3.99, which is more justified than 20 pages and some "director's cut" material. The lead story seems to take inspiration of several things. It seems as if Lex Luthor had mad some secret deal with Brainiac, and now the evil alien is betraying him; this is a rehash of a subplot from Morrison's ALL-STAR SUPERMAN. The concept of an army of robots smashing into jewelry stores and museums to steal things might also remind some of "THE MECHANICAL MENACES", the second of the 1940's Max Fleischer SUPERMAN cartoons. And finally, Superman switches his blue S-tee with a white one, which is basically what Supergirl used to wear, only without exposing his belly. The concept here is that Brainiac collects key data from civilization for his records while destroying the original - which is again akin to the 90's animated series. To this end he has shrunken a large chunk of Metropolis into a jar like Kandor, in which Lois and Jimmy are included! While Luthor and the city's elites had successfully turned the public against Superman, the mayor and even General Lane turn to him in their hour of need. While this young Superman has some spunk to him, he's not vindictive and is eager to get rolling on saving the day. With Steel alongside him, he's no longer alone in that endeavor. In the back up strip, we get an extended look at the battle between Steel and Corban, who is possessed by Brainiac and is essentially his "pawn". The fact that Lane and Corban were once lovers makes this confrontation more personal. This was an exciting chapter, although it seems to be slated to pick up in issue #7, and the next two issues will be a "rocket interlude". Does this mean a fill-in run by another artist/writer already? Is Morrison bringing momentum to a dead stop to do an origin sequence? Morales and Walker, as well as their assembled colorists, made this a very pretty book to behold. While I think ALL-STAR SUPERMAN was a better work even by issue four, ACTION COMICS is enjoyable to me. It isn't the best thing I am reading, but I'm usually entertained for my money. That said, if both Morrison and Morales are gone for the next two issues, I will be a bit irritated.

JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL #4: Writer Dan Jurgens and artist Aaron Lopresti continue on the penultimate issue of their opening arc for this series. Unlike the regular JUSTICE LEAGUE book, this title has a more diverse cast - Batman, Booster Gold, Guy Gardner, Lady Godiva, Vixen, Fire, Ice, Rocket Red, and August General In Iron - nine members, 4 of them women, with one Asian man and one African woman. However, unlike the regular JUSTICE LEAGUE title, they are not fighting a well known villain. While they are also involved in an alien invasion plot, instead of it being something well known like Parademons or Darkseid, they are fighting a new villain Jurgens has come up with called Peraxxus. He's a large alien in some knock-off Kirby-armor who is employing large Signalmen to ravage and destroy planets for scrap, basically. While this has allowed Lopresti to draw no end of alien creatures and locations, from caverns to space-ships, I think some more well known villains would have served this book well. This issue also finally brings Guy and the rest of the JLI together, as before, Guy refused to join because he felt Booster Gold was a poor leader. However, the story isn't shy of showing how Guy hasn't accomplished much more as a "lone wolf". Many of the characters still fall to type a bit - August General is the Analytical Asian, Rocket the Russkie Who Talks In Broken English, and Godiva as the Sexy British Lass, for instance - but they still are an interesting mix together. This series could be seen as playing things too safe; it offers meat and potatoes DC superhero action with a taste of humor and doesn't do anything drastic or daring. However, this is probably better than some of the final BOOSTER GOLD issues were. Godiva, who seems the weakest link of the team - she is basically like Madam Medusa, only without it stated that her "prehensile hair" is any more durable than normal hair - gets a moment to shine. The next issue claims a finale, which means JLI runs through arcs as quickly as Ed Brubaker usually does on CAPTAIN AMERICA. I like this book overall, although I think it could benefit from maybe one or two less characters so they don't all slide into stereotype aside for the big guns (Booster, Batman, Guy), and genuinely needs more high profile villains instead of Generic Alien Baddie #14A.

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES MICRO-SERIES #1: IDW's new TMNT series co-written by Kevin Eastman (the co-creator of the franchise in 1984) has been very successful in terms of IDW's usual sales. In October 2011 it was the third best selling "indie title" after Dark Horse's BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER and Image Comics' WALKING DEAD. The first few issues of it have been reprinted, and the third issue actually regained sales lost from the second issue drop. Sensing a hint, IDW have decided to branch out with additional material - works for the X-Men, Batman, and the Avengers, right? Thus, Brian Lynch has been tasked to write a four issue mini series alongside Franco Urru on art and Fabio Mantovani on colors. It takes place after TMNT #5, but the back cover states that issue isn't essential for enjoying this; which is good, since the previous issue was TMNT #4. In truth this statement proves true, as thus turns out to be interesting and near essential secondary material for the main ongoing title. Each issue focuses on a different Turtle, in a similar fashion as the series of one-shots that Mirage released at the start of the series in the 80's. This issue focuses on Raphael, as he and Casey Jones run into another mutant character while thrashing some criminals on the streets. At first she - an artic fox mutant ninja names Alopex - appears to be a friend, but Raph has his suspicion. This issue alone alludes to the Shredder and the Foot Clan - something the ongoing series hasn't done much - but also has an appearance by old school cartoon villains Bebop and Rocksteady! Even the angle of Raph running into a ninja fox woman may remind some fans of Ninjara, his lover from the ARCHIE COMICS series which ran into the mid 90's. Lynch captures the "voice" of Eastman and Tom Waltz from the ongoing series, and Urru's art works well running parallel to Dan Duncan's on the ongoing series. Perhaps the biggest spoiler from January's TMNT #5 involved bandanna colors, which is minor. While investing in a second $3.99 Turtle series for four months may be a chore for some readers, it is of the same quality of the ongoing series, and may prove to be critical reading in terms of IDW's continuity. The IDW editorial team seems to be picking and choosing the best or most interesting bits of the 27 year Ninja Turtle lore across various media and finding a new "ultimate" may to re-tell them. Many big franchises publish spin-off material at the drop of a hat to suck more cash from readers without giving as much attention to quality. This TMNT micro-series bucks that trend, and any Turtle fan reading the ongoing should make some effort to grab this, too.

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #675: This is the conclusion of a two part arc which focuses on one of Spider-Man's oldest enemies as well as provide the first regular story after the end of the SPIDER-ISLAND crossover event. Picking from the previous issue, Adrian Toomes has decided to utilize a gimmick from "OLIVER TWIST" and utilize a gang of teenagers to steal for him rather than do it himself. It is a simple idea that makes a lot of sense - Toomes has been an "old man" flying around on a winged harness since the 1960's, and even in "Marvel Time" he'd be pushing 80 at best. While the newest of Vulture's "flock" is having pangs of guilt over the vicious crimes the gang must perform in exchange for their flight tech, both Spider-Man and Carlie Cooper happen to be investigating the crime spree from different angles. The damper is that they split up at the end of SPIDER-ISLAND over Peter Parker keeping his identity secret from Carlie for so long. So while Peter and Carlie are attempting to solve the crime and put a stop to it, they're sharing the sorts of barbs and quips that only two recently split people can dish out. Dan Slott naturally remains as writer while Giuseppe Camuncoli (the new official "third regular artist" of the series), Klaus Johnson and Frank D'Armata handle the artwork. The showdown between Vulture and his gang is thrilling, but the real entertainment is seeing Carlie and Peter/Spidey interact to do something for the greater good no matter how awkward it is. It may be unintentional, but it is actually difficult to sympathize with Peter Parker here. His feelings are the usual for him; he is always hesitant to share his secret identity with anyone, even someone he loves, because it endangers them or complicates their lives. However, Carlie Cooper was not simply a normal civilian or so on; she is a member of the NYPD who is already heavily immersed in the "superhero" crime community who not only was a fan of Spider-Man, but accepted when her commanding officer became a vigilante as well. Peter had been dating Carlie officially since ASM #648 and had every chance to reveal it to her naturally. Instead he chose to hide it from her despite every possible piece of evidence that Carlie could have handled it and absolutely hates when people she loves/trusts deliberately keep secrets from her, and allowed the situation to implode. SPIDER-ISLAND had some interesting details suggesting Peter Parker's well intentioned desire to "protect" his lovers is actually due to him not being able to handle a woman who is truly his equal who can battle alongside him with equal power. Naturally, if a marriage to MJ that lasted 20 years was not sacred enough to undo, no relationship any writer makes for Peter can last long term, so Slott is merely following editorial sign-posts. But it does make for some interesting subtexts beneathe the action and snippy dialogue.

DEFENDERS #1: The Defenders are one of Marvel's team franchises which has endured for a very long time - starting in MARVEL FEATURE #1, circa 1971 - but which the company has attempted several times to revive after the original series called it a run in the mid 1980's after over 150 issues. There was the less-than-memorable SECRET DEFENDERS of the 90's that lasted roughly two years. Within the past decade alone, Marvel have published no less than three ongoing series or mini series attempting to spark interest in the property again. Technically, their last stab at an ongoing series was from 2001-2002, when a series written by Kurt Busiek and drawn by Erik Larson run for a year before being axed and finishing it's subplot with a six issue mini series. Thus, despite there being several mini-series with DEFENDERS in the title since then, this is the first time since 2002 that Marvel have invested in another ongoing series attempt with this team. In a market in which second string WOLVERINE spin-off's can't survive anymore,Marvel are attempting to revive a franchise whose entire schtick was a loose team structure - something the Avengers has ran with since. Fortunately, this time there is some hope; the series was promoted at the end of FEAR ITSELF #7 and POINT ONE #1, and features the popular creative team of Matt Fraction on story with Terry Dodson on art (with Rachel Dodson on inks and Sonia Oback on colors).

Matt Fraction's shining star of quality has fallen quite a bit in recent years. Originally well known for CASANOVA as well as his run on THE ORDER, IMMORTAL IRON FIST (alongside Ed Brubaker) and the start of INVINCIBLE IRON MAN, he seemed to devolve before reader's eyes as a writer incapable of finishing a subplot in timely fashion nor focusing enough on one idea long enough to execute it effectively. Brian Bendis has undergone such a devolution since, arguably, 2004. Once a staple of this column, INVINCIBLE IRON MAN faded under dragged out subplots and was dumped from the pull list. Most critics would claim his run on UNCANNY X-MEN was a mixed bag, at best. And while FEAR ITSELF was one of Marvel's top sellers when it was out, it was the worst selling "big event" yet and was generally terrible in terms of a narrative product. So, why was THE DEFENDERS even a consideration? In interviews, Fraction stated that this book was produced in Stan Lee's old "Marvel Style", in that the artist actually has major power over layouts and scripting and Fraction essentially writes enough narration and dialogue to make the panels work. In a sense, Terry Dodson is a co-writer (or co-plotter) as much as he is the artist. I have always had fondness for the Defenders, and their rag-tag assembly of powerful heroes such as Dr. Strange, Namor, Silver Surfer and the Hulk. But more to the point, this was also going to reunite Fraction with Iron Fist again, and with noFist series on the horizon, this was the only chance to read him in a book that "counted".

The result is an over-priced, but still very entertaining, comic book featuring great art, well realized characters and fantastic themes. While the seeds of this series were planted in the aforementioned previous material, Fraction uses enough narration to summarize the past stories that led up to this to make it relatively new reader friendly. Dr. Strange, who occupies his time with casual flings and mystical philosophy, has sensed some major magical mojo on the horizon, but can't place it. In reality it is Nul, the Breaker Of Worlds, being loose on earth in general (and Bucharest in particular). Nul was one of "The Worthy", evil Norse gods who possessed various heroes and villains during FEAR ITSELF. Nul had possessed the Hulk, and while Hulk is free from Nul's influence, Nul is now lose upon the earth - the literal dark side of the "strongest there is". Nul's existence on earth is causing all sorts of magical stuff to happen, which Strange is slowly getting a bead on. Once notified of this by Hulk, Strange goes about re-assembling the team "OCEAN'S 11" style. Old stalwarts like Namor and Silver Surfer quickly come together in interesting ways, with Hulk's estranged wife Betty Ross/Red She-Hulk being recruited to replace Hulk early on in terms of sheer power. The most awkward recruitment is that of Iron Fist; Strange comes to him essentially because they're team-mates on NEW AVENGERS and because they need his new experimental jet to travel in. To a degree, this may remind older fans of Nighthawk, who was originally part of the Defenders because he often bankrolled the team. Not many stories in a debut issue can offer illegal whalers, "Power Cosmic" snowstorms, the running of the bulls, kung-fu in space, and animal-people and have it all flow properly, but this one does.

Fraction and Dodson have some interesting character beats here. Steven Strange is no longer the Sorcerer Supreme and thus not as powerful as he used to be, but he's still weird about philosophy and abstract mystical forces, which links him to Iron Fist's mindset. Betty Ross is getting used to being a "hulk" of her own, who doesn't need someone to save her all the time. Namor is his usual zealous, arrogant self, who has kinship with the Hulk which actually borders on sweet. Silver Surfer is perhaps the biggest departure from some recent stories; no longer the herald of Galactus, is a zen-like cosmic figure who appears out for new experiences, such as turning into snow or making googly eyes at Ross. The figure at the end is a former Defenders villain, who last appeared in CABLE & DEADPOOL a few years ago. The Defenders often battled mystical threats, and this incarnation is no exception.

The biggest downside is the fact that it is vastly over-priced. It is 20 pages of story for $3.99, which for a monthly comic is a bit much. AMAZING SPIDER-MAN has shifted to a similar format, but it ships twice a week and thus arcs wrap quicker. There also is something odd to see anyone other than Jennifer Walters called simply "She-Hulk". Given that FEAR ITSELF sold worse than SIEGE sold a year earlier and that Fraction's books don't sell like they used to, it is a mystery how well this will debut and thus how long it will last. However, a major creative team like this should ideally have at least two or three arcs on a book like this, which will be promoted heavily. Despite some less than stellar stories in recent years, Fraction has found his muse with Dodson and produced a debut issue which is strong enough to encourage investment despite the high cover price. Above all, the humorless tone which helped plague FEAR ITSELF is nowhere here. At least for now, the journey to where THE DEFENDERS are going is a legitimately interesting one.

 

[Dread]

DREAD'S BOUGHT/THOUGHT FOR 12/7/11: Part 2 of 2 - V for V-Books

VENOM #10: With the SPIDER-ISLAND crossover finished, writer Rick Remender once again has a chance to steer this spin-off title in his own direction again without having to follow in lock step with what AMAZING SPIDER-MAN is doing. This naturally means that he is picking up on plot threads that have been mostly idle for about 3-4 issues. Remender skillfully followed through on some of Flash Thompson/Venom's subplot during the crossover - such as the death of his alcoholic father - but now has more elbow room to continue on his own course. This means that the new Crime-Master, who has blackmailed Flash into doing his bidding via threatening Betty Brant and his other loved ones, has returned. The new Jack O'Lantern, who Venom mutilated, is Crime-Master's top underling and this issue paints him more as a chilling rival to Flash instead of just a foil. The scenes where "Jack" poses as an "old friend" of Flash's to get close to him at a funeral not only work as suspenseful scenes by themselves, but may remind some readers of the time the Eddie Brock version of Venom did that with Aunt May back during the Todd MacFarlane era of ASM. Rather than play errand boy for Crime-Master, however, Flash decides to steal the Venom symbiote and go AWOL to take his enemies down - an act that simply creates more of them. This issue puts an end to the status quo that launched the book - that the Venom program was another outreach of the military's "Operation: REBIRTH" wing where every host got 20 missions with the alien symbiote. Given that this is issue ten and the series will soon begin a second year, now is a good time to upend the status quo a little to keep things fresh. Captain America (and his motorcycle) have a guest appearance and Lan Medina takes over for Tony Moore and Tom Fowler as the new regular artist. While having his own style, his work meshes well with a series established by the other two and isn't a drastic departure (such as when Humberto Ramos and Stefano Caselli trade off in ASM). Nelson Castro's inks and Marte Gracia's colors enhance the art even further; VENOM if anything has always had great art and Medina continues that pattern. In February, Marvel plans to literally publish 5-6 issues of VENOM within a month and desperately use him to promote Red Hulk, X-23, and the new Ghost Rider - two of which are now canceled. It will remain to be seen if VENOM is popular enough to do so, but it remains one of the most effective spin-off's in years. Remender has made an engaging lead out of Flash Thompson to the point that Venom barely has to appear for an issue to work. If SCARLET SPIDER in January is only half as good as VENOM has been, it'd be lucky. I had abandoned SECRET AVENGERS for dead months ago and am considering returning to that $3.99 book simply because Remender is next to write it; that alone should hint at how consistently good VENOM has been.

VILLAINS FOR HIRE #1: Despite the number one on the title, this is the continuation of the HEROES FOR HIRE that writers Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning ended with issue twelve and then continued in a SPIDER-ISLAND one shot and VILLAINS FOR HIRE #0.1. This is also a bit of an example of Marvel’s belt tightening as 2011 comes to a close. Within the last two months, Marvel has axed 16 staffers, canceled five ongoing series and declined to publish two mini-series they had invested some effort into producing. VILLAINS FOR HIRE was once solicited as a 5-6 issue mini series, and now has shrunken to four. While this may help the story overall in terms of pace, it is a sign of Marvel cutting costs across the line on anything that isn’t a “sure bet” like mainstream X-Men, Avengers, Spider-Man, or even Venom (which will ship a staggering five times in February). In the wake of DC seeing massive short term success with their New 52, in which they’ve mixed obvious relaunches with awkward bets like OMAC, VOODOO or HAWK & DOVE, Marvel’s strategy seems to be doubling up on more of the same and trimming costs, and risk.

At any rate, this is akin to what Marvel did with several canceled series; mini-series were immediately drafted to allow the writers to wrap up their subplot. In HEROES FOR HIRE, Misty Knight was brainwashed into restarting a new incarnation of the “business” to properly organize heroes against street crime. It was ultimately revealed that she was being controlled by Puppet Master, who was himself working with/for Purple Man. Misty, along with aid from Paladin and Iron Fist, broke free and reclaimed control of the business. She then took the idea on her own, coordinating heroes to break up the racket that Puppet Master had organized. Now, Purple Man is out of prison and seeking to re-take the streets and his “gimmick” by organizing what the title says – Villains For Hire.

To this end, his “gal Friday” is Headhunter, a minor villainess from John Bryne’s NAMOR run from the early 90’s who stalked Wall Street and mesmerized people. Given that Namor and an Atlantis drug came up in HEROES FOR HIRE, she makes sense here. Purple Man assembles Shocker, Avalanche, Scourge (who may or may not still be Nuke from THUNDERBOLTS), and a new female Death-Stalker to steal a critical piece of evidence from a transport. Things are going well for the rogues until what appears to be a rival team of villains – Bombshell, Nightshade, Tiger-Shark, and Crossfire – show up and botch the operation. It seems a new rival boss wants to take out Purple Man’s cartel just as it is getting started. Who can it be? Even without a spoiler, various news sites have revealed it in interviews, and the summary should make it clear. The artwork by Renato Arlem alongside Jay David Ramos’ colors is very effective with the action as well as detailed yet kinetic figures. Suffice it to say, this seems to be a similar premise for a certain character as DAREDEVIL had a few years ago – the only way for a hero to stop organized crime is to control it.

Abnett and Lanning’s love for obscure villains shines brightly here, and it is very good to see appearances by obscure types such as Bombshell or Headhunter. The only caveat is wondering why Purple Man’s “rival” has hired genuine villains like Crossfire and Tiger-Shark rather than more mercenary types such as Batroc or Taskmaster. Bombshell, one of the “Death Throws” (a team of evil jugglers who battled Hawkeye), at the very least is technically a mercenary.

The dialogue is crisp, it has a wide variety of characters and terrific art; if this is the last hurrah of Abnett & Lanning on FOR HIRE type material, it looks like it will end on a peak.

 

[RockSP]

Valen the Outcast #1: Cool new book from Boom! Studios. I think it was over on CBR where a reviewer described it as "Conan meets The Walking Dead". The protagonist (Valen) is a former king whose soul was stolen by the evil necromancer Korrus Null. He's trying to get it back but faces plenty of obstacles, as former friends, subjects and just peope in general hate him now that he is undead.

Batwing #4: We learn about David's childhood in this issue with fill-in art by ChrisCross D). I'm hoping Massacre (the villain of this first arc) doesn't turn out to be David's long lost (presumed dead) brother. That's just tired.

The Strange Talent of Luther Strode #3: Luther officially tries to become a hero in this issue, with some interesting results. Issue ends with him coming into contact with the book's main antagonist for the first time. Can't recommend this mini enough.

 

[Phaedrus45]

Okay. Finally sitting down to some reviews. Things have been busy, especially with Christmas approaching. Tomorrow, I have to finish work at 3:45, catch a ferry, and try to get over to Seattle with my son to catch the Seahawks game. The key will be getting the kids at school on the bus fast enough.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1-4 and TMNT Micro-Series: Raphael #1

I finally took time away from the DC and Marvel books to catch up on some independant series I have been collecting, but not reading. I always worry I'm just wasting my money by not keeping up with stuff that may be horrid when I finally get to it. Luckily, I was not disappointed in the least with this new ongoing TMNT title. I love that the main title started back from the beginning, making it accessable to new readers; and, even better, the newest issue, Micro-Series: Raphael, picks up right where the current series left off. I didn't feel as if I'm getting some half-hearted attempt by IDW to just grab my buck.

Huge kudos for this title! If you're not reading it, grab a trade somewhere down the line.

Blood Red Dragon #1-2

I should just learn to stay away from titles associated with Stan Lee. Luckily, I'm only 2 issues into this title, and haven't blown too much money on it. (There was also a Zero issue, I guess; but, I missed that.) This title is bad. I'm dropping it on Wednesday.

The Last Of The Greats #1-3

Another independant title I caught up on; and, I'm a bit glad I waited so long to read it. The first issue didn't impress me a whole lot; but, since issue #2, the book has gotten gradually better. The current one had me hooked. First, how great to see Oprah banging the "last of the Greats;" and, then, the twist with the young girl at the end of the issue had me begging for the next issue to come out.

Another recommendation!

Deadpool #47

I hate this title. It's a little better than the previous storyline; but, Evil Deadpool just isn't doing much for me. Simply put, I want them to either cancel this title or replace Way. Heck, Liefeld's series was better than this.

Green Arrow #2-4

I cancelled this title; but, kept getting it after you guys let me know that a new writer would come in with issue #4. Well .... I should have just kept it cancelled. Giffen and Jurgens do a bit better than Krul; but, nothing to warrant me wanting to stay with this book. (Since this was co-written, will a different writer be taking later?)

I'm starting to up my cancelled New 52 titles. From this week, I had committed to not continuing with Stormwatch or Static Shock. I think Stormwatch is the worst of these three, though. For DC fans, there is very little introduction to these Wildstorm characters; and, there just isn't enough DC characters to keep people around.

Animal Man #2-4

This book is still just as good as the first issue. Lemire's style works so much better with Animal Man than with Superboy; and, Animal Man's children are so much more interesting than what we've seen in The Flash's previous series. Even the quirky art works well with Lemire's writing. This is one of the true highlights of the New 52.

Moon Knight #7-8

I love this book and what Bendis has done with the character. I think most of the people who complain about it and Bendis really haven't read it or given it much of a chance. It's especially so much better than the previous series. For me, the change in Moon Knight's personality (and split personalities) make sense; and, teaming him up with Echo was a fantastic idea. I'm really hoping this is the "little book that can," and Bendis' name alone will keep it going.

Action Comics #4

Where as I've complained about this title three times before with each previous issue, this one just gets a little worse by letting readers know they have to wait for issue #7 before Morrison and Morales continue the extremely subpar storyline. Those who still rave about the book should feel disenchanted a bit with that revelation.

DC's New 52 is starting to lose some steam for me. (And, looking at November's sales chart, many books are starting to plummet in sales.) This title will still do alright; but, there are too many of these books that seem to have started out a bit strong and are now petering out. Even though Action Comics isn't the worst of the group, it still is one that DC put one of their top writers on; so, its awfulness is only made more glaring.

I hate this book. Sadly, I will keep getting it; because, I have a complete collection of Action Comics from the early 80's to today. Damn my comic addiction and completist attitude sometimes!

 

[Phaedrus45]

Valen the Outcast #1: Cool new book from Boom! Studios. I think it was over on CBR where a reviewer described it as "Conan meets The Walking Dead". The protagonist (Valen) is a former king whose soul was stolen by the evil necromancer Korrus Null. He's trying to get it back but faces plenty of obstacles, as former friends, subjects and just peope in general hate him now that he is undead.

Batwing #4: We learn about David's childhood in this issue with fill-in art by ChrisCross D). I'm hoping Massacre (the villain of this first arc) doesn't turn out to be David's long lost (presumed dead) brother. That's just tired.

The Strange Talent of Luther Strode #3: Luther officially tries to become a hero in this issue, with some interesting results. Issue ends with him coming into contact with the book's main antagonist for the first time. Can't recommend this mini enough.

Strange Talent of Luther Strode is my next Independant title to catch up on. I haven't read any of the issues; but, it always looked so good. I hope I like it as much as you recommend it.

 

[hippie_hunter]

That said, if both Morrison and Morales are gone for the next two issues, I will be a bit irritated.

Grant Morrison will still be writing Action Comics for issues #5 and 6. Andy Kubert will be doing the art though.

 

[Dread]

Grant Morrison will still be writing Action Comics for issues #5 and 6. Andy Kubert will be doing the art though.

Very well. So long as it wasn't a complete fill in run. Giving Morales two issues of a break isn't so bad.

I do question the logic of stopping a story dead in it's tracks to devote 2 issues to a fancy pants reboot of, literally, the superhero origin that every single man, woman, child, zygote, and donkey on the face of the earth knows. Lord knows Morrison will likely have a chance to play with a lot of his weird sci-fi elements. That's like if a Batman arc stopped dead center just to devote 2 issues to muggers, torn beads, and alleys.

Still, least it isn't a total fill in one. And in fairness, it will likely be used to develop elements from Brainiac and the bottle city stuff.

 

[RockSP]

Strange Talent of Luther Strode is my next Independant title to catch up on. I haven't read any of the issues; but, it always looked so good. I hope I like it as much as you recommend it.

It's gory. Just a warning...I know some people have a problem with comics like that.

 

[Phaedrus45]

It's gory. Just a warning...I know some people have a problem with comics like that.

I didn't get around to reading many more of my new comics; but, I did get to issues #1-3 of Strange Talent of Luther Strode. It reminded me a bit of Kick-Ass and another comic that is slipping my mind at the moment. I'm hooked, though. It's just a fun read, and I hope it goes beyond a six issue mini. It was definitely one of my favs for this week.