The Ongoing Bought/Thought! 2013

[Dread]

I agree, Venom has regained it's footing after a near disastrous first arc by Cullen Bunn. Quietly, it has regained it's excellence.

Indeed. His first arc with Hellstorm and the monsters wasn't that hot, but ever since the U-Foes arc, Bunn's really rebounded. He's always had the voice of the character down, but I don't think the weird magic stories worked for him. This stuff is better. Sure, it delves into some crazy symbiote action, but that stuff's always been involved with Venom.

It's not... the big deal for me is that there really wasn't any way that the two would meet. I mean, there are a LOT of people on Earth. What are the coincidences that the two of them would even meet? At least with other hook ups, we're shown how they crossed paths. I don't care if there was a moonlight dinner or a long friendship... I just want a narrative as to how they came to that place. Otherwise, I feel it's just lazy writing to shoehorn Marvel Boy into the series.

And not only that, but what the heck happened to Marvel Boy's girlfriend? I didn't read the AvX stuff that showed Marvel Boy getting exiled so maybe it was dealt with there, but he had a girlfriend since just prior to Bendis' adjectiveless Avengers title starting.



And yet, those examples all had lead up... something establishing the hook up. This one doesn't. That's what bothers me. It's not the pairing, it's the lazy writing. Again, it's a lazy shoehorn and Gillen is better than that.



Again, you're misreading what I've stated. The hook up's never been a problem for me (though I don't like it, I understand it). It's that there has to be a premise when two established characters have nothing to do with each other and have never crossed paths, save for one time when he was trying to kill her, to randomly meet and knock boots. It could be a simple one page scene, but anything would be better than just having it happen. In that way, it makes the hook up and Marvel Boy's spot in the book feel horribly forced, and I find that distracting.

I'm sure Gillen could do a little flashback at some point, but I can't stand stories when they leave things open like that for issues and months at a time and THEN give you the explanation. I don't have to have things spoon fed to me, but I've never cared for hindsight storytelling.

I see where you're coming from. I don't think an explanation of the hook up is something I am missing for myself, but we'll have to disagree there. I don't think it's so jaw droppingly out of character that the story misses something with out it. As you said, to do one now might seem a bit like sloppy writing, so it is probably best to keep moving forward.

Young superhero team books are odd things. Do the straightforward thing of just having them fight crime or traditional super villain plots and, frankly, nobody notices. YOUNG ALLIES is a good example of that. Thus, this series is doing the opposite, going for some off the wall stuff for some cult appeal. It won't be for everyone, but at least it's trying something different.

Although of course as fans of NEW WARRIORS probably know, it is somewhat of a shame that a "traditional" set up executed well has seemed to become a lost art sometimes. Now that's a franchise which has technically seen about 3 stabs since the year 2000 and neither one of them embraced the standard characters and/or set up, and all failed. Considering the last version which had almost no characters from previous incarnations still staggered to a 20th issue is amazing considering how few series tend to do that these days. Hell, I wouldn't bet money on Gillen's YA seeing a 20th issue unless it double ships a few times.

Heinberg just wrapped a mini series which saw the YA kids tackling straightforward stuff like Dr. Doom and all that, so perhaps that is also why Gillen and company chose to do some off the wall cult stuff.

 

[Phaedrus45]

I've been trying to catch up on my reading, as usual. Thankfully, the school year only has 10 more days, and I'll be doing lots and lots of reading after that. (Not to mention, I have to get something out to TMOB still.) Slowly, I've been trying to catch up on my DC reading, and I've come to the conclusion that I'll be dropping a great number of their books. I liked like to keep my Bat-books, but I'm not enjoying Nightwing and Catwoman much. (Batwoman got a little better recently; but, with a new writer, Red Hood's book has really suffered.) I was ready to finally drop Swamp Thing and Animal Man; but, both books got better with the last issue.

Onto the summer movies. (Saught/thought?)

1. Star Trek Into Darkness
2. Furious 6
3. The Great Gatsby
4. Epic 3D
5. Iron Man 3
6. After Earth
7. Hangover 3

I think that's all the summer movies I've seen. Later this week, I still have to see "Now You See Me." Critics haven't been kind to it, but the regular movie-going public give it an A-. Star Trek is easily the best of the bunch; and, Hangover is easily the worst. It's difficult to judge Great Gatsby, as it's so different from the rest of those movies. For that reason, I might rate it higher, though. It's nice to have something different than the usual summer blockbuster. Furious 6 was an awesome movie, only made better by the final scene during the credits. (That surprise appearance by a certain actor made me desperate to the next movie. My son and I love that actor.) Also, I want to note that After Earth isn't as bad as people are making it out to be. My son and I enjoyed it; but, we went in thinking it was going to be a huge stinker. (No, that's what Hangover 3 was.) Sure, you can nitpick the film; but, it simply isn't intended to be an action movie like the public was thinking it would be.

 

[Themanofbat]

Stop it... you owe me nothing...

 

[runawayboulder]

I heard Hangover 3 was completely awful. I still kinda want to see it though. I lived through part 2, how bad could it be?

 

[THANOSRULES]

Indeed. His first arc with Hellstorm and the monsters wasn't that hot, but ever since the U-Foes arc, Bunn's really rebounded. He's always had the voice of the character down, but I don't think the weird magic stories worked for him. This stuff is better. Sure, it delves into some crazy symbiote action, but that stuff's always been involved with Venom.



I see where you're coming from. I don't think an explanation of the hook up is something I am missing for myself, but we'll have to disagree there. I don't think it's so jaw droppingly out of character that the story misses something with out it. As you said, to do one now might seem a bit like sloppy writing, so it is probably best to keep moving forward.

Young superhero team books are odd things. Do the straightforward thing of just having them fight crime or traditional super villain plots and, frankly, nobody notices. YOUNG ALLIES is a good example of that. Thus, this series is doing the opposite, going for some off the wall stuff for some cult appeal. It won't be for everyone, but at least it's trying something different.

Although of course as fans of NEW WARRIORS probably know, it is somewhat of a shame that a "traditional" set up executed well has seemed to become a lost art sometimes. Now that's a franchise which has technically seen about 3 stabs since the year 2000 and neither one of them embraced the standard characters and/or set up, and all failed. Considering the last version which had almost no characters from previous incarnations still staggered to a 20th issue is amazing considering how few series tend to do that these days. Hell, I wouldn't bet money on Gillen's YA seeing a 20th issue unless it double ships a few times.

Heinberg just wrapped a mini series which saw the YA kids tackling straightforward stuff like Dr. Doom and all that, so perhaps that is also why Gillen and company chose to do some off the wall cult stuff.

I bought the first couple issues of YA and wasnt impressed..it literally blew my mind the comic was getting such great reviews.

Marvel clearly overthinks a lot of stuff...the new Nova series is much the same as your examples, everything under Joe Q has needed some quintessential hook..it's like no one can take a clear look at why New Warriors volume 1, Thunderbolts, or DnA's Nova eventually failed..it wasnt any complex formula..it was a simple matter of stagnation due to a number of issues that were all clearly fixable by numerous traditional means.

I'm so tired of everything needing some hook to relaunch..I'm also dog tired of marvel's take on what a "teen book" should be.

First off, young teens are not a significant buying force..they don't have the presence in the market or the disposable income to support the large scale comic buying power of the days of old (like the 90s)..and their appeasement will not carry a book (plain and simple).

(let alone the factor when you take a book that was generally straightforward fare and turn (or regress) it into a teen book..ala Nova, New Warriors, and many others)

I'd argue that the appeasement is also unwarranted, because teens (like I was) read a broad range of titles like Avengers, Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy.. and New Warriors. (which wasnt really the same loony teen vibe as the current stuff). In other words, as a teen I didnt flock to "teen books"..I flocked to "good comics".

Loeb's new Nova is like reading "Old hat New Hat" to my daughter..I'm pretty sure teens can handle bigger words, and stomach a comic that takes more than 3 minutes to read. (nice "teen" book for 3.99 marvel, thank god for Ed McG's art)

Young allies was a solid book...but it just didnt have the history and enough promo to work. It also didnt have relevance...which is THE most (underrated) important thing in a comic's downfall...is this book important to the marvel U? Do the character's in Bendis X-men or Hickman's Avengers give a crap about these heroes...I've grown to see how the "rock stars" lack of noticing things like Richard Rider's resume as Nova effect how readers began to feel about following a book.

As for YA getting to issue 20, man I'm not real pleased with the book, but marvel does need to stick with titles to about that length almost always IMO. I mean we are backed by disney now and making billions on films every summer, marvel can afford some books to creatively or financially languish IMO.

Letting the last NW book linger to issue #20 was cool. Honestly the book finished out quite nicely as a standalone vehicle for Night Thrasher, I thought it was creative..although the first 10 issues were too decompressed and the roster was not what everybody was looking for. It probably should have been a mini...but I like the commitment to letting a plan play out, and the guts to accept low sales when there is something good going. (IMO)

 

[Phaedrus45]

I heard Hangover 3 was completely awful. I still kinda want to see it though. I lived through part 2, how bad could it be?

Personally, I thought #2 was better than this one. It's really unfair to have After Earth be right next to it, because that might suggest that it's just a little bit worse than it. I cannot see another summer movie being worse, so I should just list it around 30.

 

[Dread]

I bought the first couple issues of YA and wasnt impressed..it literally blew my mind the comic was getting such great reviews.

Marvel clearly overthinks a lot of stuff...the new Nova series is much the same as your examples, everything under Joe Q has needed some quintessential hook..it's like no one can take a clear look at why New Warriors volume 1, Thunderbolts, or DnA's Nova eventually failed..it wasnt any complex formula..it was a simple matter of stagnation due to a number of issues that were all clearly fixable by numerous traditional means.

I'm so tired of everything needing some hook to relaunch..I'm also dog tired of marvel's take on what a "teen book" should be.

First off, young teens are not a significant buying force..they don't have the presence in the market or the disposable income to support the large scale comic buying power of the days of old (like the 90s)..and their appeasement will not carry a book (plain and simple).

(let alone the factor when you take a book that was generally straightforward fare and turn (or regress) it into a teen book..ala Nova, New Warriors, and many others)

I'd argue that the appeasement is also unwarranted, because teens (like I was) read a broad range of titles like Avengers, Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy.. and New Warriors. (which wasnt really the same loony teen vibe as the current stuff). In other words, as a teen I didnt flock to "teen books"..I flocked to "good comics".

Loeb's new Nova is like reading "Old hat New Hat" to my daughter..I'm pretty sure teens can handle bigger words, and stomach a comic that takes more than 3 minutes to read. (nice "teen" book for 3.99 marvel, thank god for Ed McG's art)

Young allies was a solid book...but it just didnt have the history and enough promo to work. It also didnt have relevance...which is THE most (underrated) important thing in a comic's downfall...is this book important to the marvel U? Do the character's in Bendis X-men or Hickman's Avengers give a crap about these heroes...I've grown to see how the "rock stars" lack of noticing things like Richard Rider's resume as Nova effect how readers began to feel about following a book.

As for YA getting to issue 20, man I'm not real pleased with the book, but marvel does need to stick with titles to about that length almost always IMO. I mean we are backed by disney now and making billions on films every summer, marvel can afford some books to creatively or financially languish IMO.

Letting the last NW book linger to issue #20 was cool. Honestly the book finished out quite nicely as a standalone vehicle for Night Thrasher, I thought it was creative..although the first 10 issues were too decompressed and the roster was not what everybody was looking for. It probably should have been a mini...but I like the commitment to letting a plan play out, and the guts to accept low sales when there is something good going. (IMO)

I wouldn't consider the Abnett & Lanning NOVA a failure. It ran for 3 years and 36 issues without any double-ship cheating or late issues. It is to date the longest run any NOVA series had, which includes the original in the late 70's as well as the oddball Erik Larson one in the 90's. The Loeb era NOVA will struggle to last as long even with double shipping. And having analyzed sales at the time, the numbers for NOVA were rock solid for a full year until Marvel decided to escalate their price war by making all #1 issues $3.99 and making the majority of their line $3.99 an issue years back. It forced both fans and retailers to abandon the smaller books to save cash for the big books, and that doomed NOVA. Even still, sales for the final issue of it weren't anywhere near as embarrassing as they'll be for MORBIUS THE LIVING VAMPIRE or DARK AVENGERS #190. Plus, the work that "DnA" sowed into NOVA and the other space books from 2006-2010 or so have proven to be the ore for at least one feature film. It is a shame that Loeb and Bendis - who could literally sell anything but MOON KNIGHT - have managed to reap the benefits.

As for the NEW WARRIORS and some general statements, you're right that Marvel (and DC) bigwigs as well seem to miss the point sometimes. The first volume of NEW WARRIORS ran six years and 75 issues. That's a mighty long time and losing steam after a while is natural. Not every fictional franchise is intended to tell 12 stories a year every year forever. But the big two have managed to do that for so long with so many characters that they assume every franchise is equal, but they're not. Sometimes things just need a rest. Sometimes a creator is out of ideas and you need to wait for someone with fresh perspective.

Marvel continues to fail to learn the lesson of THOR. Back in 2004 or so, sales on THOR were historically bad so they canceled it. Intended to relaunch it quickly, various creator woes caused it to sit on the shelf for some 3-4 years. But in the meantime, this caused something to happen. It allowed the fanbase to miss THOR for an extended period. It also told them that Marvel wasn't just going to spit him back into comics to keep him in print like a zombie franchise; they were waiting until the right pieces were in place because he's worthy of it. Deliberate or not, it worked big for JMS' run. Marvel have subsequently failed to realize that for many franchises since - such as their running of MOON KNIGHT or BLACK PANTHER or GHOST RIDER or even DEADPOOL into the ground. WOLVERINE for heaven's sake doesn't sell anywhere near what he used to, but Marvel are convinced he can sell 2 ongoings now.

The dilemma of the NEW WARRIORS as a concept is that it it essentially wanted to be what TEEN TITANS was to the JUSTICE LEAGUE for DC Comics. While that worked for a while, in the modern day other franchises like YOUNG AVENGERS and AVENGERS ACADEMY filled that void. At the same time, Marvel has displayed that they're not interested in letting any new blood character rise to relevance or importance unless it's a blood oath to Jeph Loeb. AVENGERS ARENA is busy wasting most of the better characters from the RUNAWAYS or ACADEMY franchise, and nobody in the MU misses them. Justice and Firestar's tenure as AVENGERS is a forgotten footnote, but Jessica Jones' era is treated as if she was the bloody Wasp. Younger characters always hit a bump because they can't supplant the ageless, eternal stars of the Marvel Universe, so once they're no longer "fresh", they're just spare heroes. Hence why they are so routinely used as canon fodder, such as in NEW X-MEN or AVENGERS ARENA or crossover events.

Still, NEW WARRIORS is one of those franchises which hasn't been allowed to relaunch to its strengths in literally over a decade, and Marvel wonder why it doesn't sell. Imagine relaunching WOLVERINE, only taking away his powers, making him 17, and a pro-wrestler. That's really no different than some of the wacky, off the wall premises that the NW have seen. I gave the Kevin Grevioux era on NW more time than many (although I still love his Blue Marvel character), but aside for having Donyell Taylor take over for his brother as Night-Thrasher and some interesting development with Jubilee (which was instantly ignored so she could become a stock vampire, which now Brian Wood is ignoring), it was a bit of a misfire.

The best thing one has going for it is that aside for Rich Rider and Dwayne Taylor, most of the founders are still in circulation. Justice and Speedball left midway through AVENGERS ACADEMY into limbo. Firestar was last seen around FEAR ITSELF in a spare mini with a long title (FEAR ITSELF: YOUTH IN REVOLT; that'll move copies, won't it?) two years back. And via a time fluke in NOVA, a time displaced version of Namorita is still around. Even secondary members like Rage and Silhouette are still around.

A series having a premise is good to have, but at the same time it should feel organic to the characters, not just an oddball premise that Marvel is too scared to make into a new franchise, so they lump into an old one to keep the trade mark alive. Due to that - renewing trademarks - a new NW series is inevitable, same as a new SCARLET SPIDER or MORBIUS were. The question will be whether it is handled by writers and editors who care about the characters and which to extend from them, or if they just think the name NEW WARRIORS can stand for whatever their whim is. The dilemma is of course whenever one of them does manage to rise to the fore - such as Richard as Nova Prime - eventually it is ignored and becomes worthless. And, essentially, that is how indie snobs are born.

 

[JewishHobbit]

Note: Why do you think Woods is ignoring Vampire Jubilee? She's been in one issue and it didn't come up, but he's acknowledged in interviews that he's using her as she was last seen... as a vampire (though he'd prefer her not to be). So I expect it to be referenced and shown, but not focused on.

Also, you mentioned Blue Marvel. Revealed today, he's making a return in that Mighty teaser deal that Marvel's been doing this week.

 

[JTStarkiller]

So with the news that DC is changing its digital price drop structure (books now drop $1 after two months, not one), I'm completely re-evaluating my digital pull list. Two months is way too long, so I've decided to just go day and date. I'm having to drop titles to keep my expenditures about the same, but on the bright side, I'll actually be reading books when they release!

I'm a little behind on both Superman and Action Comics. Is anyone enjoying one over the other?

 

[THANOSRULES]

I wouldn't consider the Abnett & Lanning NOVA a failure. It ran for 3 years and 36 issues without any double-ship cheating or late issues. It is to date the longest run any NOVA series had, which includes the original in the late 70's as well as the oddball Erik Larson one in the 90's. The Loeb era NOVA will struggle to last as long even with double shipping. And having analyzed sales at the time, the numbers for NOVA were rock solid for a full year until Marvel decided to escalate their price war by making all #1 issues $3.99 and making the majority of their line $3.99 an issue years back. It forced both fans and retailers to abandon the smaller books to save cash for the big books, and that doomed NOVA. Even still, sales for the final issue of it weren't anywhere near as embarrassing as they'll be for MORBIUS THE LIVING VAMPIRE or DARK AVENGERS #190. Plus, the work that "DnA" sowed into NOVA and the other space books from 2006-2010 or so have proven to be the ore for at least one feature film. It is a shame that Loeb and Bendis - who could literally sell anything but MOON KNIGHT - have managed to reap the benefits.

As for the NEW WARRIORS and some general statements, you're right that Marvel (and DC) bigwigs as well seem to miss the point sometimes. The first volume of NEW WARRIORS ran six years and 75 issues. That's a mighty long time and losing steam after a while is natural. Not every fictional franchise is intended to tell 12 stories a year every year forever. But the big two have managed to do that for so long with so many characters that they assume every franchise is equal, but they're not. Sometimes things just need a rest. Sometimes a creator is out of ideas and you need to wait for someone with fresh perspective.

Marvel continues to fail to learn the lesson of THOR. Back in 2004 or so, sales on THOR were historically bad so they canceled it. Intended to relaunch it quickly, various creator woes caused it to sit on the shelf for some 3-4 years. But in the meantime, this caused something to happen. It allowed the fanbase to miss THOR for an extended period. It also told them that Marvel wasn't just going to spit him back into comics to keep him in print like a zombie franchise; they were waiting until the right pieces were in place because he's worthy of it. Deliberate or not, it worked big for JMS' run. Marvel have subsequently failed to realize that for many franchises since - such as their running of MOON KNIGHT or BLACK PANTHER or GHOST RIDER or even DEADPOOL into the ground. WOLVERINE for heaven's sake doesn't sell anywhere near what he used to, but Marvel are convinced he can sell 2 ongoings now.

The dilemma of the NEW WARRIORS as a concept is that it it essentially wanted to be what TEEN TITANS was to the JUSTICE LEAGUE for DC Comics. While that worked for a while, in the modern day other franchises like YOUNG AVENGERS and AVENGERS ACADEMY filled that void. At the same time, Marvel has displayed that they're not interested in letting any new blood character rise to relevance or importance unless it's a blood oath to Jeph Loeb. AVENGERS ARENA is busy wasting most of the better characters from the RUNAWAYS or ACADEMY franchise, and nobody in the MU misses them. Justice and Firestar's tenure as AVENGERS is a forgotten footnote, but Jessica Jones' era is treated as if she was the bloody Wasp. Younger characters always hit a bump because they can't supplant the ageless, eternal stars of the Marvel Universe, so once they're no longer "fresh", they're just spare heroes. Hence why they are so routinely used as canon fodder, such as in NEW X-MEN or AVENGERS ARENA or crossover events.

Still, NEW WARRIORS is one of those franchises which hasn't been allowed to relaunch to its strengths in literally over a decade, and Marvel wonder why it doesn't sell. Imagine relaunching WOLVERINE, only taking away his powers, making him 17, and a pro-wrestler. That's really no different than some of the wacky, off the wall premises that the NW have seen. I gave the Kevin Grevioux era on NW more time than many (although I still love his Blue Marvel character), but aside for having Donyell Taylor take over for his brother as Night-Thrasher and some interesting development with Jubilee (which was instantly ignored so she could become a stock vampire, which now Brian Wood is ignoring), it was a bit of a misfire.

The best thing one has going for it is that aside for Rich Rider and Dwayne Taylor, most of the founders are still in circulation. Justice and Speedball left midway through AVENGERS ACADEMY into limbo. Firestar was last seen around FEAR ITSELF in a spare mini with a long title (FEAR ITSELF: YOUTH IN REVOLT; that'll move copies, won't it?) two years back. And via a time fluke in NOVA, a time displaced version of Namorita is still around. Even secondary members like Rage and Silhouette are still around.

A series having a premise is good to have, but at the same time it should feel organic to the characters, not just an oddball premise that Marvel is too scared to make into a new franchise, so they lump into an old one to keep the trade mark alive. Due to that - renewing trademarks - a new NW series is inevitable, same as a new SCARLET SPIDER or MORBIUS were. The question will be whether it is handled by writers and editors who care about the characters and which to extend from them, or if they just think the name NEW WARRIORS can stand for whatever their whim is. The dilemma is of course whenever one of them does manage to rise to the fore - such as Richard as Nova Prime - eventually it is ignored and becomes worthless. And, essentially, that is how indie snobs are born.

Hmm agree with everything here. I have made that same point before about DnA's Nova in terms of it's non-status as a failure. I even think Marvel may have been justified in taking DnA off the book for a bit and give someone like Waid a shot (but not relaunch the core DnA concept and series)...couple that in with some cred in Avengers or an event, and RR Nova could have shot up to the 40k range once again. It had certainly lost significant readership by the time it was "non-canceled". But Marvel seemed to think there was some sort of opportunity cost at it dipping to 23 K.

But in fact , whats been executed completely proves they were wrong in this matter, outside a hot selling issue#1...New Nova is going to be well below sales for RR Nova at there given times. As writers and creative staff does not seem stable I expect this book to tank by issue 15 unless "drastic Richard Ridian" measures are taken. Hopefully they will, and after we see Wells do his arc we'll get someone like Waid announced with some sort of return of RR.

 

[Slick]

Green Arrow #21
Since Jeff Lemire got on this book it's been amazing. Secerts are revealed and the mythology that Lemire is building gets deeper really if your looking for a dark gritty superhero book this is it.

East of West #3
Ok so.... For me Hickman is killing it on all the books he is writing Marvel and Image. Please check out this book.

Avengers #13
Loving this book that is all lol.

 

[Mad Ones]

All New X-men #12: It was an enjoyable issue despite some characterization seeming off, and the Mystique plot developing slowly. The Uncanny Avengers confront the O5 plus Wolverine and Kitty. By "confront" I mean taking their jet down, sounding angry, talk, and leave. There were two highlights during the groups' interaction. The first was Havok and Cyclops meeting, and actually liking each other. The hugs and love was very tender, and Havok wasn't nearly as unlikable as he is in Uncanny Avengers. The second was Jean going ballistic on the Avengers after she found out what Wanda did and was appalled that she was allowed to become an Avenger. Jean gives voice to a lot of fans who are annoyed at the hypocrisy the Avengers show regarding Wanda, and the lack of real redemption Wanda has earned. Jean continues to experience shocking blow after blow, and is really driving this series.

Captain America was absolutely atrocious this issue, to the point where Havok even told Cyclops to ignore him. He came across very closed minded and authoritarian. He defintely has a sense that he wants mutant issues dealt his way, and uses UA as a tool to do so. Wolverine wasn't even Cap's lapdog this issue, with Logan explaining that their relationship consists of him doing whatever he wants with Cap not doing anything about it. I wasn't sure why Havok was so appalled about what adult Cyclops was saying at the beginning of the issue. Cyclops basically said that if there are any mutants out there that need help, his team will go out and help them. What's so bad about that? And finally, Rogue was a little off with her interaction with 05. She hates Wanda right now, but they seemed like best friends this issue.

Another satisfactory issue, though with some bumps this time. Hopefully next issue we get into Mystique and her plans.

 

[Specter313]

If Dennis Hopeless had something happen to him where he couldn't write anymore, or go as far as lose the use of his hands, I wouldn't feel sorry. Hack.

 

[JewishHobbit]

Bought/Thought for 6-5-2013

So I was undecided on whether I should buy Daredevil: Dark Nights or not and opted not to. It looked good but nothing really jumped out at me on a skim and I wasn't really wanting to lay down money on a pointless mini for the next 8 months. If I hear great reviews, I might go back and pick it up, but I don't think I will. And I was debating on Abe Sapien as well. I bought the first two issues and liked them, but titles needed dropped and I considered that book dropped. A skim through the third issue made me realize that, although I liked the issues I read, I can get buy without it just fine. So I passed on it.

I did pick up the newest Walking Dead trade and read that. I've been spending the past four or five months getting caught up through trades and am officially caught up. It's a great series, though this Negan guy's language is annoying the crap out of me. Otherwise, it's fantastic. I bought the first volume of Remender's Venom at half priced books earlier this week. I started and loved it but dropped it during the Circle of Four crossover and missed it. I don't need another title so I won't be picking it back up, but as I come across the trades I'll probably continue that as well.

And next month, the fourth trade of Stuff of Legend comes out. I've LOVED the first three trades. They're gorgeous and the artwork inside is the best being put out right now. The story is captivating and I can never get enough. It's been a bit of a wait between the 3rd and 4th trades, so I've been eagerly anticipating this one. Can't wait.

No one ever talks about it on the hype and even the people at my comic shop don't know what it is. I STRONGLY encourage people check this stuff out. HERE IS A REVIEW of the second volume. It gives a little away from the first trade, though a minor thing really, but it gives a fantastic overview of why this is a great story and samples some art pages. Having read all three volumes, I can tell you that this is one of the best things I buy. I can recommend it without any hesitation.

Now...On to the issues I did buy.

Green Lantern 21 - I've been going back and forth on whether to buy this or not. Issue 20 was Geoff Johns' final issue, and for as great as it was, he sorta stumbled to it. I've not been enjoying Green Lantern as much as I used to, and needing to cut titles, this was a great opportunity to jump off. But remembering how much I liked the book from Rebirth through Blackest Night, I thought maybe a new writer could get that back.

I decided to skim it at the shop and saw Larfleeze, so I thought I'd be fair to Venditti and give it a shot. It wasn't a bad ready by any means but I don't know that it sucked me in enough to continue. I honestly get nothing out of Hal as the leader of the Corps. I feel it's a strange choice, being that while important to it, he's never really been a leader. I'd rather Guy have been made the leader of the Corps, or Salaak, and then see Hal bounce off of them. Beyond that, I felt Larfleeze's attack on Oa was out of left field. He's a selfish character, but he's not really a bad guy. He was rough in the beginning, but since allying with Hal during Blackest Night and after, he's always come across as a decent, comedic, but greedy character. I'm not sure I like how Venditti's playing him. And then there's Billy Tan. I don't mind his art, but why must he always give people lazy eyes. It bugged me when they'd show up in Avengers or X-Men, and several times in this one issue alone. He can't fix that?

So yeah, I may or may not get the next issue. I've not decided yet, but I don't know if I saw anything here to make me want to keep coming back. I figure I'll skim the next issue and decide then. Issue 21 wasn't bad, I just don't know that it was for me.

Phantom Stranger 9 - After confronting the demonic form of the man whose identity he stole, Phantom Stranger gets a little help from Justice League Dark and then invades Hell to find his family. He's guided by Etrigan as he takes on Sin-Eater (formerly Phillip Stark, the man whose life Phillip Stark adopted). Etrigan plays the middle between the two and in the end Phantom Stranger makes a great sacrifice to save his family. He relinquishes his love for them so that they would no longer suffer, a deal that the Sin-Eater offers after Phantom Stranger's crucifixion and torture proves unfulfilling to him. The deed is done and Sin-Eater leaves. Etrigan, however, turns out not to be Etrigan at all but the dog that represents the Voice of God in the book. Heh, I just realized why it's probably a dog. Dog backwards is God

God gives Phantom Stranger back the love for his family and states that his family is indeed freed from Hell, but they are no longer alive. They are in Heaven, and the Phantom Stranger is prepared to now invade Heaven to get them back.

This story is really enticing me and the angel that Grant Morrison created in his JLA run comes into the story next issue (I forget his name) so that has me excited. While starting slowly, this title has really picked up. It's shot up my list of favorite books each month and I'm always eager for the next one. Also, I really liked Fernando Blanco's art here. It fit the story really well, better than Tan or whoever it is that normally draws it.

All New X-Men 12 - While this issue was good, I'm starting to feel like this book is dragging on. It's telling a story without really getting or going anywhere. This arc sees the X-Men confronted by the Uncanny Avengers and the best moments were between young Scott and Alex. Scott of that time believes that his brother is dead, and Alex misses his brother since 616 Scott's gone 90s extreme. So it was nice for the two of them to reunite.

Other than that it was just a basic stand off. There's a little action when Jean reads Wanda's mind and learns about the Decimation and attacks her, completely appalled that she can do that, undoing the the X-Men fought for for years, and still be accepted back into the Avengers.

It was definitely a good issue, but I'm ready for it all to lead somewhere. Fortunately, it looks like it's doing just that with the X-Men heading out to tackle Mystique's brotherhood. I don't know if it's just building toward the upcoming crossover or if it's leading to an actual confrontation in this title, but either way, I'm ready for some conflict.

Thought I will note that a second look through made me enjoy the story for what it was a lot more. I think this is an issue that gets better with second and third readings.

And man, Stuart Immonen HAS to be one of the best, most timely artists out there right now. THIS is the type of artist that Marvel needs more of and needs to treat like gold. He's top-notch quality in a timely manor, meeting his deadlines. Make a big deal when HE'S on a title and leave people like Cassiday, Coipel, and Hitch on the sidelines, doing events, one-shots, or minis that they have time to finish without delays.


Best and Worst of the Week

Best: Phantom Stranger - While All New X-Men was comparable, I felt this one just barely won out as a standalone story. I thought the emotions were just as good, and the Etrigan twist was certainly unexpected. It was both sad, good, and horrifying at times, and just a really good read. The art wasn't as good as All New, but I still think it barely eeks out a win.

Worst: Green Lantern - Again, not a bad issue by any means, but it wasn't stellar either. A good effort by Venditti, but it just didn't quite grab me. I'll decide when I skim issue 22 whether I'll give him another chance or not.

 

[Specter313]

And next month, the fourth trade of Stuff of Legend comes out. I've LOVED the first three trades. They're gorgeous and the artwork inside is the best being put out right now. The story is captivating and I can never get enough. It's been a bit of a wait between the 3rd and 4th trades, so I've been eagerly anticipating this one. Can't wait.

No one ever talks about it on the hype and even the people at my comic shop don't know what it is. I STRONGLY encourage people check this stuff out. HERE IS A REVIEW of the second volume. It gives a little away from the first trade, though a minor thing really, but it gives a fantastic overview of why this is a great story and samples some art pages. Having read all three volumes, I can tell you that this is one of the best things I buy. I can recommend it without any hesitation.

Happy to see you recommending and reading this. I've been on it since it started, and I love it. The creators have also been at the Baltimore Comic-con every year since it started, and I've always stopped by to talk to them, or buy something that they're selling, (I got a cool shirt with the Jester on it last year), and they've always been incredibly appreciative of any support that they get and go out of their way to all sign any of the issues I bring with me.

 

[JewishHobbit]

I was hooked from the very first FCBD preview. My shop ended up not ordering the title, having never even heard of it, but I eventually came across the first trade at Half Priced Books. I was in love from the first read, and each volume after that just keeps getting better. LOVE this series.

 

[THANOSRULES]

If Dennis Hopeless had something happen to him where he couldn't write anymore, or go as far as lose the use of his hands, I wouldn't feel sorry. Hack.

I've read a few issues of AA in Barnes and Noble (i wouldnt do that to my local comic store)..

in general the core of the concept is horribly flawed and crappy, but I must say aside from Darkhawk, he does have some talent in terms of plotting and dialogue..I've not checked out his X-force stuff..but he's OK. I agree though that he still took this concept and ran with it so thats on him.

Jenkins Deathmatch is so much better...

 

[runawayboulder]

There was a lot of angry people over this week's "death". I still think this is all a swerve.

Aside from that I'm really shocked at how the book has done critically. I guess Hopeless is really working hard on the characterization front. I think for those not reading it we want to assume that it's AvX or Civil War on some kind of snuff comic steroid but it seems to be nothing like that...

 

[JewishHobbit]

Yeah, I skimmed the newest issue and shook my head at the ending. Hated that death. If I were buying the book it'd be for five characters, and three of them are dead now. If this doesn't ultimately swerve in some way, I'll be ticked.

 

[Dread]

Average sized week to kick off June. Spoilers ahoy.

DREAD'S BOUGHT/THOUGHT FOR 6/5/13:

ARCHER & ARMSTRONG #10: It is nearly a year since the relaunch of this 1990's era franchise by Valiant Entertainment, in the "summer of Valiant" from 2012, and writer Fred Van Lente wastes no time kicking off his third arc. Events pick up so much from last month's zero issue that it is a mystery why that issue wasn't considered a regular numbered issue to begin with. The immortal drunkard/poet Armstrong and his teenage ally, the religious fundamentalist assassin Archer, have become friends despite all odds and saved the entire world twice. They've faced evil bankers, ninja nuns, ancient spirits of possession, and no end of minions. Now, Archer seeks out the truth about his abilities and unique capacity for information (usually used to master all combat techniques which exist), and such a task brings them right to the heart of strangeness for the nation - "Area 51" in Nevada.

Each arc brings on a new artist, and this one brings in Pere Perez, alongside regular colorist David Baron. Whether due to the design of the hiring strategy for artists or Baron's consistent colors, all three artists who have drawn for this series all have their own unique styles, yet the series overall maintains a particular look. As with most opening chapters to story arcs, this is a set-up issue in which the location is set up and various parties are gathered from across the country. Not only do Archer and Armstrong breach the compound, but Archer's old flame Mary-Maria has returned as well. Having become immortal in the first arc, Mary-Maria is now host to the souls of Archer's corrupt and deceased parents - which is as awkward as it seems. They uncover aliens, soldiers, and a bizarre portal with ties that reach back to 1955.

The fundamental strength of this issue in particular and series in general - besides the consistent artwork - is Fred Van Lente's great scripts. In particular, his ability to seamlessly shift from straight comedy to drama or suspense without any element seeming out of place makes this series every bit as enjoyable as his run co-writing "Incredible Hercules" for Marvel Comics. Few writers can mingle ancient conspiracies, exaggerated villains, aliens, and dinosaurs without it seeming complicated or ridiculous, yet this remains a true action/comedy yarn. The series sells in the top 175 with over 11,100 copies sold, which is a shame. Van Lente's "Incredible Hercules" often averaged about twice this even at its cancellation, and this series has far more liberties than that did while maintaining the successful tone. Regardless, Valiant Entertainment is committed to it and hopefully, more fans will be, too.

AGE OF ULTRON #9: The penultimate issue of Brian Bendis' latest misfire of a crossover event commits the cardinal sin of many sub-par comics; revealing the climax in the cover and then treating it as a surprise. After having spectacularly screwed up the time stream by killing Hank Pym before he could create the mad robot Ultron, Wolverine is the sole survivor of a galactic battle in NYC between Morgan LeFey and earth's heroes. He somehow staggers back to the Savage Land time machine in Antarctica (and one thought Batman's ability to travel the world quickly by foot was uncanny) and convinces himself to spare Pym in the past. The two Wolverines decide that much like with "Highlander", there can only be one - proving that Logan is a jerk even to himself. The art by Brandon Peterson and Carlos Pacheco is fine, although this aimless series has already been ignored by promotional exercises for the latest thing, and one wonders if fans have already done so as well. Since 2005, Bendis has either written or co-written the majority of crossover events that Marvel have published, and they all range from mediocre to embarrassingly terrible. Sadly, this lurches more towards the latter category. To refer to it as excrement would be ignorant to the usefulness of excrement in nature. Bendis has written worse, but this series is a poor display of the talents of one of Marvel's so-called premiere writers of the past decade. Thankfully, there is only one issue to go.

FEARLESS DEFENDERS #5: After a bonus tie-in crossover issue with "Age of Ultron" which revealed some character tidbits, writer Cullen Bunn artist Will Sliney, and colorist Veronica Gandini continue their story where they previously left off. The evil Caroline LeFey (daughter of Morgan LeFey and Dr. Doom) has utilized Dani Moonstar and the Valkyrie to resurrect the "Doommaidens", who were a brutal previous generation of valkyrie. Despite allying with Misty Knight, Hippolyta, and archeologist Annabelle Riggs, Valkyrie is hopelessly outmatched. Thus, as the cover notes, they organize a team-up with an additional dozen super-heroines. Large scale team-ups against mythical enemies have long been a part of the "Defenders" legacy, and it is good to seen among the dozen guest-stars previous Defenders such as Hellcat and She-Hulk, as well as Misty's longtime ally Colleen Wing. On the whole this isn't a deep series, but it is a fun one which offers a lot of action and some witty dialogue. Sliney's art has improved in relying less on broke-back poses, although obviously Brian Wood's "X-Men" has captured most fans' imaginations in terms of "a superhero team with only women on it". While hardly the most notable comic out there, it is still a perfectly enjoyable straightforward action story with some crisp dialogue and bright colors.

IRON MAN #11: Writer Kieron Gillen continues with his retroactive continuity origin revolving around Tony Stark's birth, and thankfully remains teamed with artist Dale Eaglesham and Guru eFX's colors as opposed to Greg Land. It may be easy to see some hints of Orson Scott Card's "Ultimate Iron Man" series from 2005, as this origin suggests that Stark's exceptional genius for engineering isn't simply due to him being smart or determined; it was literally a result of genetic tampering by an alien robot. Decades ago, Tony's parents made a deal with the robot Recorder 451 to save the life of their child due to complications with pregnancy, and wound up sparking a war with alien mobsters who run a casino. This issue is a middle chapter which goes over the details of Tony's fetal growth as well as raises the stakes of how important both he and his influence on earth has in a very large and violent universe. While Gillen's juggling of pulp elements and weird sci-fi elements isn't as strong as Fred Van Lente's, he still manages to pen a better yarn out of rewriting history than he probably should. It helps that the dialogue remains crisp in between extended flashback moments.

SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #11: Longtime "Amazing Spider-Man" writer Dan Slott teams with frequent co-writer Christos Gage to begin the latest arc in the "Dr. Octopus possessing Spider-Man's body" saga of this new Spider-Man relaunch. While this may be a new series in title, it ties into the start of Slott's "Big Time" run from 2011 in regards to focusing on Alistair Smythe, who has become the cybernetic Spider-Slayer. Having murdered Marla Jameson (J. Jonah's Jameson's wife), Smythe has been imprisoned at the Raft and is waiting execution. Naturally, Jonah (as mayor) suspects that the villain will try something on this eve, and insists that his favorite violent Spider-Man be on hand as security. Sure enough, Smythe rigs some cybernetic invaders to free him as well as empower three villains who Ock (as Spidey) recently maimed. Giuseppe Camuncoli returns on art and as always seems to channel the best of Sal Buscema with his pencils. Ock-as-Spidey continues to alienate most of Peter's old cast while remaining as arrogant as possible, which may rub some fans the wrong way.

The issue does have some hiccups. Some odd pacing sees J.J. arrive twice by helicopter to the same island in two different scenes. And while New York's real life billionaire mayor has displayed enormous political power both at home and abroad, it does border on a super power that mayor Jameson could not only close a SHIELD installation such as the Raft, but reinstate the death penalty in a state where it was ruled unconstitutional in 2007. Such a plot would have been more seamless in "Scarlet Spider", which is set in execution happy Texas. Quite why Smyhe was able to keep his cybernetic helmet and thus the source of his powers remains a plot convenience. The fact that the public never supported the genuinely noble Peter Parker as well as they slavishly embrace the corrupted murderous version likely leads credence to the theory that the citizens of the Marvel Universe are the dumbest citizens in any fictional universe - even more so than those of DC's Metropolis. While this mind-swap premise has officially begun the era of being stretched too far, this remains a satisfying installment for a new arc. The art is good and overall the story is slowly progressing to things starting to break down around Ock - even as he smugly ignores it.

 

[Dread]

I don't read AVENGERS ARENA; I did that thing that so many people say to do with things they dislike or hate or aren't into. I voted with my dollars. I know about some of the deaths which took place within and that includes the recent blowing up of Nico. RUNAWAYS was once a franchise I beloved, and read for all of BKV's run. I caught up on the second volume via the cheaply priced digests and adored it. At the time it was the one Marvel comic which never disappointed me. I left after Joss Whedon's delayed six issue run because I didn't want to watch the series go downhill. I wasn't angered when Marvel canceled it. I do get angry when newer, younger characters are used as canon fodder because they can't ever unseat the immortal corporate demigods in their position. That's why I hated AVENGERS ARENA to the core when it was announced. Not only is it a shameless rip off, but it does what Marvel always does with younger or less mainstream characters - use them as canon fodder for gore fests.

I was pissed to know that some of the characters from AVENGERS ACADEMY would be sacrificed for a rip off slasher fest, and I'm no less pissed that the RUNAWAYS were seen as such. Nevermind that the RUNAWAYS is the perfect gateway franchise to launch on TV. Never mind that AVENGERS ARENA is becoming a good place to watch characters of color die. Or that Hopeless is more willing to kill off other people's characters than his own.

I recall when Molly started appearing in some stories without the rest of the RUNAWAYS some people talked me down when I thought it was a bad idea to split them up. Well, **** like this happens when you do that to closer knit teams who aren't top sellers. Some wind up in larger teams but the rest just go to limbo or die. Look at the graveyard formed from those ACADEMY X characters.

I'm not saying characters should never die; I do believe that "death" has itself become such an empty plot detail or editorial stunt that it's hard to see when it serves a narrative purpose and when it's there to make headlines. I believe it should be rarer than it is in comics and I don't like seeing potential squashed, as it tends to always be with newer characters.

The big franchise characters and some of their core supporting casts are immortal. Everyone else, though, isn't. Peter Parker will be back no matter how loudly Dan Slott screams he won't and everyone knows it. But Stature? Mettle? Nico? Hornet? They're dead, gone, and are hardly editorial priorities. And I think fans are smart enough to realize this which is why outrage tends to spike when a cult fave is sacrificed.

AVENGERS ARENA's sales are falling. Unfortunately, it hasn't been as fast as those for MORBIUS or FEARLESS DEFENDERS, so I doubt the series will be retconned or that the deaths won't stick. Disney doesn't care what happens in the comics and whatever happens in them won't effect how these characters are used in other mediums.

Note: Why do you think Woods is ignoring Vampire Jubilee? She's been in one issue and it didn't come up, but he's acknowledged in interviews that he's using her as she was last seen... as a vampire (though he'd prefer her not to be). So I expect it to be referenced and shown, but not focused on.

Also, you mentioned Blue Marvel. Revealed today, he's making a return in that Mighty teaser deal that Marvel's been doing this week.

I saw the preview and wondered how a vampire takes a commercial flight in daylight without dying.

I did hear about Blue Marvel, and am excited. He's Sentry done right to me.

Hmm agree with everything here. I have made that same point before about DnA's Nova in terms of it's non-status as a failure. I even think Marvel may have been justified in taking DnA off the book for a bit and give someone like Waid a shot (but not relaunch the core DnA concept and series)...couple that in with some cred in Avengers or an event, and RR Nova could have shot up to the 40k range once again. It had certainly lost significant readership by the time it was "non-canceled". But Marvel seemed to think there was some sort of opportunity cost at it dipping to 23 K.

But in fact , whats been executed completely proves they were wrong in this matter, outside a hot selling issue#1...New Nova is going to be well below sales for RR Nova at there given times. As writers and creative staff does not seem stable I expect this book to tank by issue 15 unless "drastic Richard Ridian" measures are taken. Hopefully they will, and after we see Wells do his arc we'll get someone like Waid announced with some sort of return of RR.

Marvel could have just relaunched the book like they relaunch everything from Spider-Man to Wolverine to Morbius to Young Allies.

I'm actually not angry that Rich Rider isn't on "ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN"'; he'd have been butchered. It is a bit absurd that everyone from the climax of THE THANOS IMPERATIVE survived but him and a lot of the subplots from his run were left ignored. I actually thought it was an mistake that DnA had all of the Nova Force leave the rest of the corps in that series and head into Rich; if they'd not done that, then it would have been easier to continue the franchise without him and Loeb would've have had less continuity to ignore. But, now that it's back anyway it is a shame to leave a lot of those characters in the ether to be replaced by another cabal of Corps.

DnA forged the ore for a lot of space stuff as well as film adaptations for years, yet Loeb's comic is the new lynchpin for higher profile and poorer written space books, and it sucks.

 

[JewishHobbit]

I saw the preview and wondered how a vampire takes a commercial flight in daylight without dying.

I don't remember the details but I don't think that's been a problem with Jubilee. Plus, she went off to train with other vampires last we saw her so she might have learned some new tricks.

I did hear about Blue Marvel, and am excited. He's Sentry done right to me.

Correct me if I'm wrong but you never did read Jenkins' original Sentry series, did you? Because THAT was Sentry done right. Sadly, people who insanely hate Bendis' take on the character seldom give it a shot.

And I never did read Blue Marvel. People always refer to him as a Sentry-type character but Sentry was already captured to perfection in Jenkins' mini. I just always felt like I'd be reading a cheap knock off, so I never bothered to spend the money on it.

 

[chamber-music]

Average sized week to kick off June. Spoilers ahoy.

DREAD'S BOUGHT/THOUGHT FOR 6/5/13:

AGE OF ULTRON #9: The penultimate issue of Brian Bendis' latest misfire of a crossover event commits the cardinal sin of many sub-par comics; revealing the climax in the cover and then treating it as a surprise. After having spectacularly screwed up the time stream by killing Hank Pym before he could create the mad robot Ultron, Wolverine is the sole survivor of a galactic battle in NYC between Morgan LeFey and earth's heroes. He somehow staggers back to the Savage Land time machine in Antarctica (and one thought Batman's ability to travel the world quickly by foot was uncanny) and convinces himself to spare Pym in the past. The two Wolverines decide that much like with "Highlander", there can only be one - proving that Logan is a jerk even to himself. The art by Brandon Peterson and Carlos Pacheco is fine, although this aimless series has already been ignored by promotional exercises for the latest thing, and one wonders if fans have already done so as well. Since 2005, Bendis has either written or co-written the majority of crossover events that Marvel have published, and they all range from mediocre to embarrassingly terrible. Sadly, this lurches more towards the latter category. To refer to it as excrement would be ignorant to the usefulness of excrement in nature. Bendis has written worse, but this series is a poor display of the talents of one of Marvel's so-called premiere writers of the past decade. Thankfully, there is only one issue to go.

My favourite part was when Wolverine talked about killing Pym as a baby

When Bishop pulled the stuff Wolverine pulled he was called a villain yet Wolverine is supposed to be in the right in some way in this story

This event could of been two issues shorter if they just cut to the other wolverine turning up telling him it doesn't work

 

[Dread]

I don't remember the details but I don't think that's been a problem with Jubilee. Plus, she went off to train with other vampires last we saw her so she might have learned some new tricks.

Or she might have some magic trinket or whatever. More than one reviewer noted how Jubilee's vampirism seemed to not be mentioned.

X-MEN #1 was the best selling comic of May, so it obviously didn't matter.

Correct me if I'm wrong but you never did read Jenkins' original Sentry series, did you? Because THAT was Sentry done right. Sadly, people who insanely hate Bendis' take on the character seldom give it a shot.

And I never did read Blue Marvel. People always refer to him as a Sentry-type character but Sentry was already captured to perfection in Jenkins' mini. I just always felt like I'd be reading a cheap knock off, so I never bothered to spend the money on it.

I never read the original SENTRY. The premise didn't appeal to me, and what I have read of it in Handbook Bio's doesn't lead me to believe I missed much. The fact that Marvel, Jenkins, and WIZARD collaborated to mislead and outright lie to retailers and consumers about the origins of the character in order to sell it also forever left a bad taste in my mouth. It wasn't a marketing gimmick or half-truth. It was a bold faced lie, with greats such as John Romita Sr. and even Stan Lee if I recall adding in some two cents to it. I get that new series and characters need a push, but that was always too far for me. The angle of "a Superman cypher who goes insane" has never been a good premise for me, whether it's Jenkins or Waid doing it. Bendis utterly destroying the character just was the icing on the cake.

Still, perhaps it does take lies to fool the direct market into daring to try out a new character, and to a point Blue Marvel proved it. ADAM: LEGEND OF THE BLUE MARVEL was launched not long after Kevin Grevioux's NEW WARRIORS came to an end and wasn't received well, and right at the start of CIVIL WAR. It had no baring on the event and wasn't promoted at all, so the mini tanked. The character kept appearing in some anthologies and now he's in the relaunch of MIGHTY AVENGERS. He lacks Sentry's ridiculous origin, some of the infinite power (although he's still damn powerful), and a better reason for never having been heard of until now as well as a superior design. Also unlike Sentry, who like a good Mary Sue was EVERYONE'S bestest friend EVAR from Hulk to Wolverine, Blue Marvel only befriended Namor and the Watcher in his past. Grevioux did kill off Adam's wife at the end of the launch mini which I thought was a mistake, but aside for that it was a solid character. I'm thrilled to see him return, even if it means enduring Greg Land's art again. I wonder which photos from magazines or the AP that Land will shamelessly photoshop and copy for Brashear. His origin did remind me a little of New American from the Wildstorm series THE AMERICAN WAY (which came out about the same time), but Adam Brashear was less militant than Jason Fisher was so I thought it wasn't a huge deal.

I'm starting to feel like this book is dragging on. It's telling a story without really getting or going anywhere.

Dragging on? Not really going anywhere? A Bendis title?

Sorry, couldn't resist.

My favourite part was when Wolverine talked about killing Pym as a baby

When Bishop pulled the stuff Wolverine pulled he was called a villain yet Wolverine is supposed to be in the right in some way in this story

This even could of been two issues shorter if they just cut to the other wolverine turning up telling him it doesn't work

Wolverine's advocated the murder of children more than once. Even in AVX he was totally willing and eager to murder Hope. In AVENGERS: THE CHILDREN'S CRUSADE not only did Wolverine attempt to kill Wiccan for being Wanda's son, he all but claimed he'd enjoy it. Now he and Wanda are best friends in Uncanny Avengers and he's the bestest headmaster ever in WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN.

And Bendis never makes any story shorter. The man couldn't even write a grocery list in fewer than six issues. He all but should be personally blamed for the decompression which has crippled a lot of comics since. He made it hip and marketable.

As for Wolverine, he's become akin to Shrek; a character whose real life popularity is mirrored in his fictional universe, to the detriment of logic, sense, or drama. Even during his peak in the 90's, other characters rightly kept him at arm's length not only due to his abrasive nature, but the fact that he often murdered criminals, which is an issue for many superheroes. But once he became an Avenger in 2004 and it stuck for a while, suddenly not even Spider-Man cares that Wolverine's killed more people during his life span than Carnage. He merrily drinks beers with a character he was lecturing on morality merely a few years earlier. Seriously, why IS Wolverine accepted and Punisher not? My best guess is superheroes are fine with killing villains so long as you don't do it with guns. If Frank Castle switched to a 7th century Japanese gardening tool, then he too could be accepted again. Even Elektra, an unabashed mafia assassin, is occasionally teamed up with by mainstream heroes.

Thus, it doesn't matter if Wolverine went back in time to conquer the universe so he could rule over an empire of Asian brides and brewski's. He'd still be slapping hands with Steve Rogers at the next FF BBQ the next month anyway as if he were Ronald McDonald. I suppose considering Wolverine's long life and connections, it could be due to sheer nepotism, but even that only takes it so far. He's never held to task for any of his actions and if he is, it's forgotten about immediately because he needs to appear in those Avengers team up shots as if he was a founder.

He's the best there is at what he does, and what he does is expose the hypocrisy in most Marvel heroes.

I mean, hell, take UNCANNY AVENGERS. The world is aghast that Rogue killed Grim Reaper on TV? The same world that merrily accepts Wolverine as an Avenger appearing in many a photo op shot with squeaky clean heroes? Seriously!? Seriously.

 

[JewishHobbit]

I never read the original SENTRY. The premise didn't appeal to me, and what I have read of it in Handbook Bio's doesn't lead me to believe I missed much.

You are wrong

The fact that Marvel, Jenkins, and WIZARD collaborated to mislead and outright lie to retailers and consumers about the origins of the character in order to sell it also forever left a bad taste in my mouth. It wasn't a marketing gimmick or half-truth. It was a bold faced lie, with greats such as John Romita Sr. and even Stan Lee if I recall adding in some two cents to it.

I'll agree that was crap, and if I paid enough attention to comics outside of the world of X-Men at the time it might have bothered me. Fortunately, I later borrowed the mini from my brother-in-law. It's still to this day one of my favorite stories in comics... maybe my favorite. Heck, it's probably one of my favorite stories in any media. Loved it!

Fact remains, if that bothered you then, there's no reason not to enjoy it now. Marvel doesn't make a dime on back issues, nor on trades that are out of print. If anything, you're helping the comic shops out.

I get that new series and characters need a push, but that was always too far for me. The angle of "a Superman cypher who goes insane" has never been a good premise for me, whether it's Jenkins or Waid doing it. Bendis utterly destroying the character just was the icing on the cake.

Then good news. He wasn't insane. That was a Bendis addition.

Still, perhaps it does take lies to fool the direct market into daring to try out a new character, and to a point Blue Marvel proved it. ADAM: LEGEND OF THE BLUE MARVEL was launched not long after Kevin Grevioux's NEW WARRIORS came to an end and wasn't received well, and right at the start of CIVIL WAR. It had no baring on the event and wasn't promoted at all, so the mini tanked. The character kept appearing in some anthologies and now he's in the relaunch of MIGHTY AVENGERS.

I've not read Blue Marvel but I just always felt like it was them trying to copy the Sentry formula. I wasn't necessarily dodging it, but I sure couldn't afford it at the time. I wouldn't mind giving it a shot, though.

See look... that's called open-mindedness there. I mean, I could just crap all over Blue Marvel as a Sentry knock off at a time when Sentry was at his popularity peak... but I don't hold that against him or the series.

He lacks Sentry's ridiculous origin,

Sentry was designed as a golden age character (early Marvel... that's golden right? Or was that silver?) and therefore he had a golden aged origin. For what he was intended to be, it was a perfect origin... no more strange than Spider-Man's or the Fantastic Four's. It didn't get all convoluted and weird until Bendis got ahold of him.

... and a better reason for never having been heard of until now as well as a superior design. Also unlike Sentry, who like a good Mary Sue was EVERYONE'S bestest friend EVAR from Hulk to Wolverine, Blue Marvel only befriended Namor and the Watcher in his past.

Wow... you really don't know anything about Jenkins' mini do you? The reason why no one remembers him is a HUGE part of the story, and it makes perfect sense as to why it happened. Before using this as an argument again, I HIGHLY recommend reading Jenkins' mini... because (and I promise this is not intended to sound offensive) stating it makes you sound foolish and uninformed.

His origin did remind me a little of New American from the Wildstorm series THE AMERICAN WAY (which came out about the same time), but Adam Brashear was less militant than Jason Fisher was so I thought it wasn't a huge deal.

So he's a rip off of TWO characters?

Dragging on? Not really going anywhere? A Bendis title?

Sorry, couldn't resist.

I'd be annoyed if you weren't right.

Though in Bendis' defense, he's greatly improved since his early Avengers days. These days he lets the story roll from issue to issue without having 6-issue arcs. I mean, from Siege on he's been more flexible with his stories and it's shown. Even All New X-Men hasn't been written for trade, it's just dragging on a bit too long before coming to some major conflict. Fortunately, it's heading there now.

Wolverine's advocated the murder of children more than once. Even in AVX he was totally willing and eager to murder Hope. In AVENGERS: THE CHILDREN'S CRUSADE not only did Wolverine attempt to kill Wiccan for being Wanda's son, he all but claimed he'd enjoy it. Now he and Wanda are best friends in Uncanny Avengers and he's the bestest headmaster ever in WOLVERINE & THE X-MEN.

And Bendis never makes any story shorter. The man couldn't even write a grocery list in fewer than six issues. He all but should be personally blamed for the decompression which has crippled a lot of comics since. He made it hip and marketable.

As for Wolverine, he's become akin to Shrek; a character whose real life popularity is mirrored in his fictional universe, to the detriment of logic, sense, or drama. Even during his peak in the 90's, other characters rightly kept him at arm's length not only due to his abrasive nature, but the fact that he often murdered criminals, which is an issue for many superheroes. But once he became an Avenger in 2004 and it stuck for a while, suddenly not even Spider-Man cares that Wolverine's killed more people during his life span than Carnage. He merrily drinks beers with a character he was lecturing on morality merely a few years earlier. Seriously, why IS Wolverine accepted and Punisher not? My best guess is superheroes are fine with killing villains so long as you don't do it with guns. If Frank Castle switched to a 7th century Japanese gardening tool, then he too could be accepted again. Even Elektra, an unabashed mafia assassin, is occasionally teamed up with by mainstream heroes.

Thus, it doesn't matter if Wolverine went back in time to conquer the universe so he could rule over an empire of Asian brides and brewski's. He'd still be slapping hands with Steve Rogers at the next FF BBQ the next month anyway as if he were Ronald McDonald. I suppose considering Wolverine's long life and connections, it could be due to sheer nepotism, but even that only takes it so far. He's never held to task for any of his actions and if he is, it's forgotten about immediately because he needs to appear in those Avengers team up shots as if he was a founder.

He's the best there is at what he does, and what he does is expose the hypocrisy in most Marvel heroes.

I mean, hell, take UNCANNY AVENGERS. The world is aghast that Rogue killed Grim Reaper on TV? The same world that merrily accepts Wolverine as an Avenger appearing in many a photo op shot with squeaky clean heroes? Seriously!? Seriously.

I'd say a lot of this is over exaggerated because most people, and especially the public, don't KNOW how many people Wolverine's killed. The majority of his early publication days saw him kill very few. Then when his past was revealed, most of it had been erased from his mind and he'd sorta redeemed himself of it. Then when he kicked it into high gear with X-Force, it was kept secret and only the team, Cyclops, Emma, and Beast knew (or found out). In fact, no one ever found out about either X-Force run before Wolverine declared it all a mistake and vowed to stop that direction. It actually wasn't until an issue or two ago in Uncanny Avengers that anyone found out about it due to the hints dropped by the Apocalypse Twins, and that story is still playing out.

Honestly, he's returned a bit to the way of the samurai and is being portrayed how Wolverine should have been all along and is the FIRST person to tell you he shouldn't be teaching kids... but he's stepping up because no one else was, and the task is changing him for the better. The rest of the situations where he's acting blood thirsty is due to horrible portrayals and absolutely ridiculous editors letting it happen.

Honestly, people should probably only pay attention to Wolverine from Uncanny X-Force, Wolverine & the X-Men, and Uncanny Avengers. Those are the titles that are driving his character forward. Everyone else are just writing the cliche Wolverine and destroying the progress Aaron and Remender have been building for years.