The 2016 "yep, I'm still here lurking, waiting for a good book" Bought/Thought

[Will Nolte]

New Year, new thread. Still trying to find a book that will keep me interested in comics with how bad Spidey books have gotten...

So how about a theme for this year: Still do your regular reviews, but also attempt to put up a review of a book you have designated your favorite book of the week and include in it your reasoning that everyone should start reading that series/one shot over all other books. Let's show the comic companies they should keep the good books, improve the bad ones, and drop the horrible ones all together.

 

[CaptainWagner]

Going to do this quickly:

Amazing Spider-man #5&6: The Zodiac arc is sort of over now, but not really, while the "Dark Kingdom" has begun. I'm already far more interested in Dark Kingdom than the Zodiac, but Spidey's supporting cast is still a mess, with Prowler and Anna Maria still being useless. They finally follow up on the Doc Ock tease, but still no word on what's going on with Rhino and Lizard. 7/10

All-New Wolverine #3: While I was disappointed the Taskmaster fight was over so fast, it was a solid continuation to the series. Thoroughly enjoyable ride so far. 7/10

Obi-Wan and Anakin: I was less than impressed with this. It felt short, and didn't have any really memorable moments. But Soule is great, and I love the concept, so I plan to give it a second chance 6/10

Daredevil #2: Well, this story is moving along fast. Maybe a little too fast. But I'm still intrigued by the plot, even if [BLACKOUT]The Hand[/BLACKOUT] getting thrown in was monumentally disappointing, espically when it's only the sophomore entry. The writing is great, but it's the art that really steals the show here. 8/10

And the book I'd give my "weekly" endorsement to:
Ant-man #3: The writing is witty, the gags hilarious, and the characters memorable. If you haven't tried this book out yet, you really ought to give it a chance.

 

[Sithborg]

Uncanny X-men #1: First, freaking Land. But, he at least seems to be trying to differentiate M and Psylocke in art, rather then let the colorist deal with is. I do like the new costumes though. Thank god they didn't go back to the swimsuit for Psylocke. It is nice to have one of the new X series not to be lamenting Cyclops (or at least so far). Like the team so far, but they really need to tone down the M/Sabertooth interactions. Love that they haven't undone what Remender did with Archangel, even if they have changed a few things. Looking forward to see what had happened.

Plus, I think Bunn remembered that the original Dark Riders were Inhumans.

Anakin & Obi-wan #1: Pretty much set up, with a lot of art and not much text. And some of the early panels were difficult to tell what was going on. But, some nice insight into Anakin's early Temple days.

Star Wars #14: Vader Down continues to be fun. Greivbar apparently has all the skills as Greivious, so the fight with Vader is a bit predictable. The fight with Chewie and Han vs the other wookiee was fun. A bit of a homage to Star Trek there, I believe. The last panel is great. Balls of steel Leia, balls of steel.

 

[SwiftFox]

A-Force #1 - Pretty solid start. We don't get the whole team showing up here but a good portion of it. Singularity is awesome - and the real hook for me is that she remembers BattleWorld but no one else does. I REALLY want to see where they are going with this. Not sure what Medusa is up to - doesn't seem like her to me, but I trust Wilson's writing so we'll have to wait and see. The artwork is great (it has been for pretty much every Marvel book I've picked up so far).

The Ultimates #3 - Ya'll need to be reading this book. Looks like the crew got themselves into some trouble with a certain galactic empire. The art continues to be Fantastic and I am loving Al Ewings writing! This issue had several cameos and none of them seemed out of place. And that last page is a shocker. I'd say more but then I'd just give the whole thing away so read it! You won't be disappointed!

 

[Colossal Spoons]

Amazing Spider-Man #5 - Much like Slott's previous "Superior" run; this book is very well written and the art is beautiful but I think I've come to the realization that I just can't like Spider-Man. I want to, I really do, but it seems the character is destined to have his plans blow up in his face for the rest of time. Whether it's being a reporter or running a biotech company, Peter just can't catch a break. Every issue leaves me exasperated and frustrated that almost everything Peter tries to do is either destroyed or undermined from right under his nose. Why can't he just have a stable relationship, a decent career, and fight crime too? Uncle Ben's advice may have been the worst thing for Peter as he feels the need to be everywhere and save everybody. Maybe I'll have better luck with Miles. I'm not going to stop reading b/c like I said, the book is very well written but perhaps I'll start rooting for the villains like I do in Game of Thrones so some issues will end pleasantly.

 

[CaptainWagner]

The Ultimates #3: Still amazing in the third installment. There's not much to say that hasn't already been lovingly detailed out by everyone else. That last big reveal didn't really impact me (I never read the Blue Marvel miniseries) but it was undeniably cool. My only complaint is that I wish it could be longer. 9/10

Uncanny X-Men #1: I really wanted to like this. I love these characters, but it's next to impossible for me to overlook the overly posed art and awkward dialogue. I may give it one more chance, but I'm probably not going to be picking this up 5/10

All-New Wolverine #4: This may be my final issue here. I love Laura as Wolverine, but I hear Hopeless is doing much better work with her in All-New X-Men. The story was already kind of dragging, and now this issue just felt like a massive waste of time just to plug Dr. Strange. This book has really gone downhill fast 6/10

Green Lantern Corps: Edge of Oblivian #1: I kind of lost interest in Lost Army near the end, but this sequel has captured my attention. Hal is probably my least favorite Lantern, so this is a great showcase for everyone else. Hopefully this time they can maintain the quality. Also, light a candle for [BLACKOUT]Mukmuk[/BLACKOUT]. He will be sorely missed. 8/10

 

[SwiftFox]

Captain Marvel #1 - Off to a great start! Carol is still the person we loved under KSD but I feel like there's more plot going on her. And we get glimpses of Carol's take on diplomacy. Anka's art work and Matt Wilson's colors are on point. I have really high hopes for this book.

Uncanny Inhumans #4 - Holy Crap Ahura. That was badass. Reader is easily becoming one of my favorite characters ever- he never disappoints with throwing a verbal burn in Johnny Storm's direction. This book was the end of the arc and it was wrapped up neatly. Ahura is going to be one to watch! Love this book - Soule writes the Inhumans really well and McNiven's art work couldn't be better. Next month is the Quiet Room!

 

[Mad Ones]

Uncanny X-men #2: My favourite X-book of the batch. Mutant healers being targeted is a pretty good hook for this first arc and things actually happen it. Psylocke and Archangel continue to build-up, Magneto remains on point, and M and Sabretooth are actually fun together. Points taken off for art (though it is a bit better here) and Mystique's boob window.

Extraordinary X-men 5: After five issues I wish this book's team dynamics and status quo was a little better established. I want to know what conditions are actually like in Limbo and how the school is running. The highlights were Iceman saving that Inhuman and I'm still really enjoying Colossus' new design. Storm gave a knock-off Cyclops speech that totally fell flat to me. She was basically saying everything Cyclops said during Bendis Uncanny while she was hating him.

All-New X-men 3: A pretty inconsequential title, but I like it. I enjoyed these loser Ghosts of Cyclops. Framing the world as post-Cyclops is interesting. He absolutely dominated the franchise for a decade, so seeing the world react to the void he left is interesting. Funny enough, Tyke gave a speech that was way better than Storm's in Extraordinary. I still want more of Evan in the book. Idie doesn't have much personality here, maybe that's because I skipped most of WatX where she was developed I guess, but I liked her a lot more back when she was introduced.

 

[UltimateWebhead]

I don't have a specific review for one book, but the new Invincible Iron Man series has been excellent thus far. Great writing, ploting and the art work has been stellar. Though for the next arc David Marquez is off the book and they have Deodato coming in for pencil work. I have no emotional attachment to IM as a character like I do for Spider-Man so I can't really judge the series based on IM's history or previous books. I'm just going by quality as a whole. But I highly recommend it to those who haven't picked it up. As a Spidey fan, the inclusion of MJ has been a real treat too...seeing her in good character form once again. I really wish the newest Spidey books had the level of quality that this new IM series does.

 

[CaptainWagner]

Martian Manhunter #8: Continues to be riveting read. The mystery of what the heck is actually happening begins to be revealed while the various fragments of J'Onn continue to entertain. And next month promises a giant robot battle. I can't wait! 9/10

Astonishing Ant-man #4: This has to be my favorite book of ANAD so far, and there are a lot of great books. It's amazing how well Spencer can shift between uproarious humor and gut-wrenching personal drama. Marvel seems to be shaping him as one of the All Star authors and he couldn't be more deserving. I wish I had known who the "celebrity cameo" was, but that didn't at all detract from the story. Beetle was a great addition, hopefully she'll be around for a while. And now [BLACKOUT]Giant-Man[/BLACKOUT] shows up. So all we need from that Issue 1 cover is[BLACKOUT] Porcupine[/BLACKOUT]. 9/10

A great week, with arguably my two favorite titles getting released. I'd advise anyone to read both, though it would certainly be difficult to jump into Martian Manhunter at this point.

 

[Colossal Spoons]

I don't have a specific review for one book, but the new Invincible Iron Man series has been excellent thus far. Great writing, ploting and the art work has been stellar. Though for the next arc David Marquez is off the book and they have Deodato coming in for pencil work. I have no emotional attachment to IM as a character like I do for Spider-Man so I can't really judge the series based on IM's history or previous books. I'm just going by quality as a whole. But I highly recommend it to those who haven't picked it up. As a Spidey fan, the inclusion of MJ has been a real treat too...seeing her in good character form once again. I really wish the newest Spidey books had the level of quality that this new IM series does.

It really has been amazing. Loving it and Dr. Strange so it's cool to see Strange show up in Tony's book.

 

[UltimateWebhead]

It really has been amazing. Loving it and Dr. Strange so it's cool to see Strange show up in Tony's book.

Oh yes. Very cool to see Strange. The high-five panels and the moustache bros had my sides aching.

It's the only book I'm currently reading to where I am counting down the days for the next release...Bendis is killing it. Can't wait to see what happens in this new arc.

 

[SwiftFox]

Spider-Woman #3 - First of all, you should get this issue for Javier Rodriguez's art alone. His layouts are phenomenal and honestly he needs an award for his art on this book. Hopeless' story is action packed with great dialogue (Jess kicks ass and Carol is a worry wort) - but really this issue is all about the art. You need to get it.

Angela: Queen of Hel #4 - This issue was action packed and just a hell of a lot of fun. Stephanie Hans art work is fantastic.

All-New Inhumans #3 - This issue was a lot of set up for the next issue (which will be the final issue of this arc). Some interesting character development for Swain and Naja in particular, but Grid and Pan have their moments to shine too. Love Stefano Casselli's artwork here -I'd say it would be my favorite this week but see the Spider-Woman review ha.

 

[Will Nolte]

Uncanny X-men #2: My favourite X-book of the batch. Mutant healers being targeted is a pretty good hook for this first arc and things actually happen it. Psylocke and Archangel continue to build-up, Magneto remains on point, and M and Sabretooth are actually fun together. Points taken off for art (though it is a bit better here) and Mystique's boob window.

Extraordinary X-men 5: After five issues I wish this book's team dynamics and status quo was a little better established. I want to know what conditions are actually like in Limbo and how the school is running. The highlights were Iceman saving that Inhuman and I'm still really enjoying Colossus' new design. Storm gave a knock-off Cyclops speech that totally fell flat to me. She was basically saying everything Cyclops said during Bendis Uncanny while she was hating him.

All-New X-men 3: A pretty inconsequential title, but I like it. I enjoyed these loser Ghosts of Cyclops. Framing the world as post-Cyclops is interesting. He absolutely dominated the franchise for a decade, so seeing the world react to the void he left is interesting. Funny enough, Tyke gave a speech that was way better than Storm's in Extraordinary. I still want more of Evan in the book. Idie doesn't have much personality here, maybe that's because I skipped most of WatX where she was developed I guess, but I liked her a lot more back when she was introduced.

Which X-book is the one that Bagley is drawing?

 

[Marvel]

This new MCU is just as bad as before Secret Wars Redux.

Honestly, I hate most of what Marvel publishing is puking out these days. I went from something like 25+ books a month to a precious few right now.

How in the golden era of the MCU at the movies does Marvel publishing make ALL the Avengers books, Falcon-Cap, Lady-Thor and Spider-Man completely unreadable for long time fans? I guess the "kid crowd" may enjoy a few but not many long time readers can stomach the PC crap they are pedaling.

What I have liked:

Invincible Iron Man
Squadron Supreme (even after what they did to Namor)
Guardians of the Galaxy (love the idea of Ben Grimm as a member)
Hercules
Black Knight
Uncanny X-Men (old school good)
Carnage (surprisingly good read)

I'm trying to hang on to Uncanny Avengers but it's difficult.
Daredevil is the weakest it's been in decades but still readable.
Dropped Star-Lord (kid Star-Lord does nothing for me)
Thinking about dumping Dr. Strange.
Thinking about dumping The Vision.
Couldn't stomach the PC Avengers.

 

[CaptainWagner]

See, I just can't understand when people can't separate what they want a book to be like from the quality of an actual book. You don't want to read a book because Thor's hammer was given to Jane Foster, then leave it there. Don't go around calling these books crap when be every objective criteria they AREN'T. And your bias is clear when the only complaint you can muster is repeatedly calling it "PC crap".


*edit* Nothing personal, sorry, just had to get that little rant out. I have to commend you for acknowledging that you enjoy several Marvel titles, which is better than a lot of the folks I run into on the Interwebs. The "PC-crap" thing just gets on my nerves.

 

[SwiftFox]

See, I just can't understand when people can't separate what they want a book to be like from the quality of an actual book. You don't want to read a book because Thor's hammer was given to Jane Foster, then leave it there. Don't go around calling these books crap when be every objective criteria they AREN'T. And your bias is clear when the only complaint you can muster is repeatedly calling it "PC crap".

I agree with this.

 

[squeekness]

So I went to the store today with every intention of buying Deadpool #7 which was also the 25th anniversary issue, but just about keeled over when I saw the price -- $10! That is insane. Yeah it was a thicker book, but not ten bucks worth. That was nothing short of highway robbery. Guess I'll be dropping another book now....

 

[BoredGuy]

Gas went up by a few cents and people slowed down their driving habits considerably
Does Marvel really think people will tolerate full dollar increases on a single issue of a comic book and not see a decline in readership??

they need somebody with more financial wisdom up in there

 

[squeekness]

You're going to price out kids with paper routes, geez. I usually spend roughly ten bucks on my two to three books a weeks, never mind ten for just one. That's just plain stupid and greedy. Only the serious completists are going to plunk down that kind of change for a single comic.

 

[CaptainWagner]

All New Inhumans #3: Another great installment. The characters are starting to develop nicely, with their individual traits distinguishing themselves well. This chapter had some good surprises too, I can't wait for the conclusion of the arc this month! 8/10

The Ultimates #4: This issue was very heavy in Blue Marvel's backstory, which I'm completely unfamiliar with. As such, a lot of it didn't really impact with me. The art is still jaw dropping, though, and with Galactus coming after them now, it can only get more epic from here. 7/10

I agree with complaints about the prices. Kids these days just can't afford comics, and that's a HUGE problem. Myself, I've had to cut so many books I liked to fit my meager High School budget. They really need to do something to fix this.

 

[SwiftFox]

For awhile there I thought I was the only one reading All New Inhumans! Glad I"m not! The preview for #5 is up which si hte Spider-Man arc - and they brought in a new artist for those issues. Not feeling the artwork - I know it's only two issues but wish they had kept Caselli for it.

Silk #4 - Really enjoyed it. Had some emotional parts and I honestly didn't see the end of that issue coming!

The Ultimates #4 - Glad to get more background on Blue Marvel cause I know nothing about him. Like Captain Wagner said, Art is just gorgeous and the end go REALLY intriguing.

WeirdWorld #1, #2, and #3 - I don't know why I didn't pick this book up earlier. What a great story! It's a lot of fun, but there's a whole lot of social commentary going on underneath the fun. Mike Del Mundo's art is ON POINT. I heard someone compare the story to a D&D campaign (read the story and you'll figure out why) but really, it's so much more and so much BETTER than that. Really give this story a try guys. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

 

[SwiftFox]

Spider-Woman #4 - HOLY CRAP JESS. One hell of an amazing issue. A+ 10/10

I haven't gotten to the rest of my pull list yet. But I felt that needed to be said.

 

[UltimateWebhead]

For awhile there I thought I was the only one reading All New Inhumans! Glad I"m not! The preview for #5 is up which si hte Spider-Man arc - and they brought in a new artist for those issues. Not feeling the artwork - I know it's only two issues but wish they had kept Caselli for it.

I feel ya. Disliking the art can so easily take me out of a story or a comic. It's especially frustrating when this happens mid-run on a comic that I am loving--change up the art style, to something less favorable, and it dilutes the enjoyment.

 

[SwiftFox]

I'll still be picking up both issues 5 and 6 of All New because 1. Spider-man and 2. Crystal is gonna beat the hell out of every one it seems in Issue 6. So I'm definitely there for the story regardless of the art.

The thing is, this is the same artist who drew the final 2 issues of Soules previous Inhuman run. SO I don't know what's goin on.