ARCHIVE
A
ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN 627 Rucka & Clark
Despite Matthew Clarks admirably clean art, something is just not quite right
about this re-vamp; and Greg Rucka may have something to do with it. Right off the bat he forgets one of the golden rules,
neglecting to introduce all the main players convincingly - so who the hell is Replikon (hes cover featured, so he must be
important), and why should I care? I almost audibly groaned when I saw that this was the first part of an arghhhc, so what
you get for your monies is the barest bones of an actual story, some character bits, but no honest hook for the casual reader.
Ruckas preoccupations with the crime genre are much in evidence (which is a tad dispiriting in a spandex book), but he does
portray Superman in a positive, forceful, light. Not the greatest of starts.
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ACTION 789 Kelly & Rouleau
Ok, I admit it! I bought this for Krypto, but I was hoping for a good
read too. Unfortunately, whatever story there was, is lost amidst a welter of undefined protagonists and slip-shod storytelling.
Joe Kelly inconveniently forgets to establish his characters (in favour of some trite dialogue), while the manga influenced
Duncan Rouleau singularly fails to adequately move the plot from panel to panel in a coherent manner. On some pages it was
impossible to decipher the action. He does, however, draw a cute Krypto.
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ACTION 814 Austen &
Reiss
The first of the Super titles to get a kick up the arse, which Austen achieves
with a fast, efficient, self-contained day-in-the-life story; with just a garnish of soap-operatic sub-plot. The Superman
here is reminiscent of Siegel and Shusters creation, in attitude and bearing,
which makes a pleasant change from what has gone before. Ivan Reiss art is of the hyper-realistic school, a zillion miles
away from the anonymous manga-lite that comics have suffered for a while. Promising.
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ACTION COMICS
816 Austen & Reis
Action is what it says on the cover, and action is what you
get. Supes dukes it out with Gog, and while Ivan Reis art is a little scratchy, it is still head and shoulders above the other
Super titles.
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AQUAMAN 15 Pfeifer & Gleason
After the false start to Aquaman's new series under Rick Veitch, a new team
jump on board, and it's all hands to the deck. San Diego falls beneath the ocean, burying and drowning thousands, and a familiar
looking Aquaman shows up to help. No more straggly beard, and a nice orange shirt and green tights too. He seems to have a
water hand now, instead of the hook, but I have no idea what that's about. Will Pfeiffer writes a fast read, but with sufficient
mystery and suspense to pique interest, while Patrick Gleason provides some nice visuals.
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AQUAMAN 16 Pfeifer + Gleason
The mystery surrounding the disaster that plunged San Diego into the ocean, deepens, as first a young boy struggles
from the depths, only to die, followed by a young girl whom Aquaman quickly rescues. Aquaman may be wearing retro colours, yet
the storytelling is anything but. Patrick Gleasons blocky, but sensitive pencils, perfectly captures the air of impending
menace that Will Pfeifer's script ably conveys.
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AVENGERS
68 Johns + Coipel
Geoff Johns' take on The Avengers is finally
starting to gel, but the padding for future collection is noticeably prevalent; and though Olivier Coipel's art is distinctive,
at times it is a little lacking in focus. The real villain of the peice is finally revealed, as previous red herrings are
discarded, and "The Red Zone" draws towards to it's conclusion.
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AVENGERS 73 Johns + Sadowski
Tacky. Yellowjacket gives the Wasp some oral relief (or perhaps he was doing
something else down under those bed sheets) and Whirlwind beats up a call girl dressed as the Winsome Wasp. Geoff Johns takes
full advantage of his lack of captions and scene shifts to lead the reader into believing that Hank has once more taken to
beating his wife Jan, conveniently tying sex and marital abuse up into a sordid little package. Other than that, it's business
as usual on the Geoff Johns decompressed storytelling gravy train. 22 pages to find out that Jan and Hank still love each
other, but that she wont marry him.
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AVENGERS 75 Johns + Kolins
He and She Hulk get into a ruck, and kick the snot out of each other until
Jack of Hearts does something with his radiation powers that sorts the whole mess out. Johns is probably not sure how, either.
5
AVENGERS 77 Austen + Coipel
A surprisingly good start to Chuck Austens stint at the helm and a breath of
fresh air after Geoff Johns' mediocre run. A good solid super-hero team book, some nice dialogue, and it's set in an England
where not everyone talks like Dick Van Dyke. Surprisingly. Coipel's art is still not as good as it was on Legion, but pleasant
enough. I'm enthused.
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AVENGERS 78 Austen & Coipel
This one has it all; drama, action, humour, mystery and pathos, as housewife
Kelsey Leigh uses Cap's shield to defend both he and the Wasp from Thunderballs big, erm, ball, while indulging in a spot
of philosophical banter. Some really nice art in places, but a word in yer shell-like Chuck; sort out the kids dialogue will
ya? The little girl saying "Most people wouldnt give two shillings for him" was just a tad suspect.
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AVENGERS 79 Austen & Chen
An interlude moment, and a chance for Austen to flex his soap opera muscles.
Captain America behaves like a bit of a chump, the Wasp and Yellowjacket are going over some old history, again, and Hawkeye
gets dumber. Not a bad thing by any means, but Sean Chen's art is woefully inadequate in conveying convincing emotion, let
alone normal looking people. Cap looks as if he's suffering from piles in one panel.
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AVENGERS FINALE Bendis &
Various
Brian Michael Bendis puts a
cork in it, and plugs up 40 odd years of Avengers history with some silly nonsense. Bendis patented characters (believe me,
no true Avengers have appeared in the travesty that was Avengers Dissed) stand around going “Er…um, well it’s
like this, er….F%@k” or something similar, and talk about their best times with the team, as opposed to the, like,
erm, er, the worst one day they just had. A very sad end to an illustrious title. New Avengers? No thanks.
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B
BEWARE THE CREEPER
1 Hall & Chiang
If you're expecting the loon
in yellow pancake with the insidious laugh, then relax. Jason Hall writes a story encompassing the café society and art world
of 1920s Paris, as two sisters, one a good time girl, the other not so, flirt and mingle with the Surrealist movement of the
day. Unfortunately, despite the intriguing setting, Halls script is a bit ordinary. It lacks any real bite, and the characters
are singularly un-involving. Cliff Chiang's art, on the other hand, is gorgeously lush, with a rich, fluid line. The Creeper
only makes the barest of appearances, and therein lies the mystery to be played out over the next four issues, methinks.
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BIRDS OF PREY 56 Simone and Benes
New writer, new art team and a fresh approach. Hallelujah! This series was
tired and listless for the longest time, but Gail Simone has rejuvenated the usual gimmicks with some smart dialogue and a
fresh view, while Ed Benes gives the book a dose of pleasantly drawn cheesecake. Nothing extraordinary here, but if you're
looking for an oestrogen driven action injection, you could do worse.
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BIRDS OF PREY 62 Simone + Benes
Black Canary travels to Hong Kong to visit her dieing Sensei, and crosses paths
with Lady Shiva, the meanest, bestest, warrior in the whole wide world, who demonstrates her skill by biting a guy's finger
off. BoP is a solid action comic, with some smart dialogue, and clean, sexy, art.
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BLOODSTONE 4 Abnett/Lanning & Lopez
Elsa and her gang get into a smack down with some vampires, and much merriment
ensues.
This may be Buffy-rivative, but it has a charm all its own and a likeable lead
character. It's just plain, good, old-fashioned fun.
The visuals have grown on me, and have a very pleasing, chunky, straightforward
quality. So bite me!
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C
CATWOMAN 5 Brubaker & Rader
Catwoman investigates a drug smuggling operation that exploits children as
mules, and hooks up with Slam Bradley in the process. Replacement artist Brad Rader continues the animated/noir feel that
Darwyn Cooke initiated, with a nice juxtaposition of an almost Kurt Schaffenberger sensibility with Ed Brubakers mature tone.
Brubaker has an assured understanding of Catwomans many facets, purr-fectly blending crime with the need to wear black leather.
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CATWOMAN 6 Brubaker & Rader
This title is consistently excellent, and the first part of four chapters focussing
on Holly-Selinas eyes and ears on the street-is no exception. Ed Brubaker's characterisation is deft, as he delves into Holly's
past, her recovery from drug addiction, and her romantic relationship with Jenni. Brad Rader's art is expressive, while remaining
uncluttered with unnecessary detail-unlike some I could mention.
A treasure.
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CATWOMAN 21 Brubaker + Stewart
Holly and Selina are on the road, and Captain Cold has a cool heist in mind.
Can Catwoman help him lift a flashy artefact; and if she does, will he get to keep it? Brubaker & Stewart have a great
synergy, easily crafting one of DC's more satisfying monthlies around a well-developed and engaging cast.
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CODENAME:KNOCKOUT 10 Rodi
& Paquette
I came to this through word of mouth, and was pleasantly surprised by the tongue
in cheek, cheesecake spy spoof. Robert Rodi effortlessly characterises his protagonists-Angela and her gay chum Go Go Fiasco-as
they switch sides from G.O.O.D. to E.V.I.L, and take a vacation in Paris. Yanick Paquette (with Juan Martin) gives good art,
and Ill be back next month for more.
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D
DC COMICS PRESENT….GREEN
LANTERN 1 Azzarello/Breyfogle & Pasko/McDaniel
Azzarello’s tribute is spoilt by a mean streak of contempt for the source material, saved - just - by the last
page punch line to the 'joke'. The kindest thing that can be said for Pasko’s
effort is that he tried. The art on both stories is indifferent, though Breyfogle is good on expressions.
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DOOM PATROL 5 Arcudi & Eng Huat
The two competing Doom Patrols fight some mystic nasties, but it's not the
plots that keep me returning each month. Rather, the ever-escalating mysteries, and this issue ends on a good one. Did Paul
Kupperberg's Doom Patrol revival never happen?
Tan Eng Huat is a great find, and I wouldnt be surprised if Marvel are trying
to poach him as I write.
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DOOM PATROL 6 Arcudi & Eng Huat
The all-new, all original team for dysfunctional heroes, slowly falls apart
with the disappearance of Cliff Steele, and wrangling over ownership of the team name. Negative Man hits the bottle, Fever's
temperature rises, Freak gets more, erm, freakish, and who is that in the hospitable bed? Phew! Ill be back next month for
more of John Arcudi's smart dialogue, Tan Eng Huat's dynamic draughtsmanship, and to feast my eyes once more on Dave Stewart's
sumptuous colours. I'm doomed!
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DOOM PATROL 7 Arcudi & Eng Huat
The team take a road trip in search of Robotman's, er, remains. What they find
is his head, and presumably a brain. What a disturbing thought that is, poor Cliff's brain whirring away while buried for
the last 4 years. Tan Eng Huat gets to design Robotman an imposing new body, and John Arcudi continues to impress with his
sparkling dialogue and sublime characterisation.
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DOOM PATROL 9 Arcudi &
Eng Huat
It is vaguely disconcerting the way in which John Arcudi teases the eager reader
with information, peeling away one mystery only to reveal another beneath. The fake Robotman is revealed to be an illusion
of sorts, but the answer only necessitates further questions. Arcudi's pacing shudders & jolts, dispensing with seamless
segues, but tantalising the reader with numerous concurrent plotlines. I cannot imagine this comic visualised by anyone other
than Tan Eng Huat, whose unique style so elegantly captures the twitchy atmosphere Arcudi has crafted.
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DOOM PATROL 11 Aracudi & Eng Huat
This book isnt for everyone, which is a pity. Criticism that could be applied,
is that, though stylish, the story doesnt seem to be progressing anywhere. I disagree with that assessment, and intend to
follow this title as long as it continues to focus on character development and plot building over standard fare super-hero
slugfests. John Arcudi takes the Doom Patrol to hell, and gives us a peak at what makes the individuals tick, while Tan Eng
Huat does what he does best, which is produce some of the best looking art on a monthly basis.
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DOOM PATROL 1 Byrne & Hazlewood
Surprisingly readable, but Byrne’s Doom Patrol team suffers from including a few too many (OK, all of ‘em)
characters with shit names like Grunt, or Vortex. Where’s the romance? An inker with a sharper line would also be appreciated.
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E
EMPIRE 4 Waid + Kitson
So far, this series has been an exceptional roller coaster. Waid and Kitson
have created a thoroughly stimulating scenario examining what would happen if one of those megalomaniac villains ever achieved
their goal of world domination. Though all the main players are just plain nasty, and absolutely despicable, one cant help
but be enthralled by their antics. Whats more, as this issue proves, none of them are indispensable. Good stuff.
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EMPIRE 6 Waid + Kitson
Waid & Kitson are producing some of their best work, as they draw Empire
to a satisfying conclusion after six issues of shocking twists and turns. Golgoth once more stands triumphant, but the personal
price paid was high, and one has just a smidgen of sympathy for the devil.
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F
FALLEN ANGEL 1 David + Lopez
An intriguing premise with a few nice hooks. Peter David invites us onto the
streets of Bette Noire, a city without scruples, and a heroine equally suspect. David still has a light touch to his scripts,
but here tempers it with a darker vein. The art by newcomer David Lopez is fine, but with some small room for improvement.
A good start.
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FANTASTIC FOUR 60 Waid
& Wieringo 9cents
I dont know about the Kennedy clan, or the Addams Family, on this showing the
FF are Marvels answer to The Cosby Show; all thats missing is a canned reaction soundtrack. Perhaps Im the wrong audience
for this jumping-on-point, but this re-hash of who the FF are, and their powers, seemed tired and jaded. Mike Wieringos art
is of the cute, wide eyed and Bigfoot sort, but serviceablethough if Johnny gets any younger, hell be attending school with
Franklin.
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FANTASTIC FOUR 67 Waid
& Weiringo
Dooms back! Two words that
would usually have me stifling a yawn, but to Waids credit he actually made me care, with this story of an egotistical outsider
who gave up true love, but then found a use for it in his own inimitable, and shocking, way. I still reckon Mike Weiringo
is unsuited to this strip (Id prefer a harder edge) and I hope Doom doesnt get laughed at too much in his new romper suit.
The logo is as crappy as ever.
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FANTASTIC FOUR 500/71
Waid + Weiringo
Unthinkable 68-71: Eek! What the bloody hell is that abomination of a cover
doing on the Anniversary issue? Surely the budget would have stretched to someone with a talent for paint? Unthinkable has
been an enjoyable ride, with some nice character observations of Reed Richards and Dr Doom along the way; but Waid fumbles
by providing Reed with an Ultimate Nullifier in the final stretch, and blows it in the finale. Doom falls foul of his ego
(again), while Mr Fantastic (hello?) is left looking like a before advertisement for Botox injections.
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FIRESTORM 1 Jolley & ChrisCross
Goodbye to Ronnie Raymond
and puffy sleeves, hello to a Firestorm for the
Noughties. Teenager Jason Rusch is having money problems, home life isn't
much
better, and things are about to get worse. Jolley crafts a sympathetic
and engaging principal lead, while ChrisCross provides
some nicely understated
visuals. The bad press this re-launch has garnered might just be a storm
in a tea-cup.
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THE FLASH 200 Johns + Kolins
Blitz 196-200: Geoff Johns seems more at home on The Flash than on any other
title he writes. Blitz has generally been an involving emotional roller coaster for the assembled cast, as the new Zoom teaches
Wally West what it takes to be a hero in his own inimitable reverse fashion. Unfortunately, the conclusion, as with many of
Johns arcs, falls a little flat in the telling. Johns had an agenda to change the status quo, which diminishes some of the
more dramatic events, and sadly does away with the last 30 odd years of character development; all to satisfy his own vision
of what (and where) The Flash should be.
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FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE JUSTICE LEAGUE 1 Giffen & DeMatteis + Maguire
Like the 80s never ended, Giffen, DeMatteis and Maguire return to one of the
highlights in mainstream comics of that over-hyped decade. Though this motley collection of B & C grade characters wore
out their welcome long before their first five years were up, the original spark is thankfully back. Giffens irreverent take
on the absurdities inherent in the super-hero medium still raises a smile and the occasional titter (Ive never been one for
BWA HA HAs), and Maguires flair for capturing facial expressions hasnt diminished. Pity then, that the colours are muddy and
dull when they should shine and sparkle.
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GENERATIONS III 1 Byrne
Say what you like about John Byrne, and hes had his fair share of stinkers
over the last decade or so, given his own little playground to play in, with recognisable characters, he can turn in a very
enjoyable, light-hearted romp. This will particularly appeal to those of us of a certain age, but doesnt need an encyclopaedic
knowledge of DC continuity to appreciate. This is the third part of Byrnes Generations Elseworld, that takes as a starting
point the conceit that well loved characters age and die, marry and give birth, with a predominant focus on the Superman and
Batman dynasties. The only niggle is that Byrne should really think about working with an inker that might help smooth out
some of his rougher edges.
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GENERATIONS 4 Byrne
OK, Im not about to give
up on this series yet, but the narrative structure is seriously getting on my tits. With each successive issue focussing on
a hundred year jump in continuity, Byrne has to contrive ways to keep a recognisable cast around, and I freely admit to being
confused as to who some of them are. In this issue, Wonder Woman returns after her daughter falls in battle (a scene were
never shown, so theres no emotional involvement) and those rascally Parademons attack once more. This could get real old,
real fast.
5
GOTHAM CENTRAL 7
Rucka + Lark
Detective Montoya is outed
at work, and her life turns to crap. Rucka writes an intelligent character study of a woman being pushed to her limits, while
Lark draws like an absolute dream.
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GRADUATION DAY 1,2
& 3 Winick + Garza
A rotten example of comics
by committee; Winick may have the writers credit, but editorial fiat seeps from every fibre of this cobbled together plot
that really has no redeeming value other than to facilitate a couple of senseless deaths and a couple of new series. Ugly
art, ugly words, and an ugly premise; dont wait for the inevitable trade paperback.
2
H
HAWKMAN 1 Johns + Robinson & Morales
After being revived through the power of love-cue Jennifer Rush-in the pages
of JSA, Hawkman (hes the one with the mullet) wings his way into the fifth attempt at an ongoing title, with neurotic partner
Hawkgirl. Geoff Johns and James Robinson write a fairly uninspired excuse for some two-fisted Hawk action, but thankfully
Rags Morales draws some very pretty pictures. He has a fine feel for anatomy, which comes in very handy when dealing with
a bare-chested, mace-wielding, wing bearing crime-fighterand Im not referring to Hawkgirl.
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HAWKMAN 4 Johns + Robinson & Morales
Phew! Theres so much testosterone floating around, that this title is beginning
to reek. Quite why Geoff Johns & James Robinson write Hawkman as a bone crunching, grunting oaf of a barbarian is beyond
me, and his constant pestering of Hawkgirl is getting creepy. Hawkman & companions hack their way out of the Battlelands,
while Hawkgirl has another tussle with Tigress. Rag Morales is a credit to this title; I just wish the material he has to
work with were more compelling.
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HAWKMAN 22 Johns + Rags
Johns is finally putting some energy into this title, as the Headhunter comes
calling, and Hawkman goes a bit wack. Not sure what to make of Hawkgirl finding Buster Keaton films hilarious, though. Perhaps
it illustrates what a humourless character she is generally. Rags continues to prove his worth as an artist with some lovely
figure work.
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HAWKMAN 26 Siegal &
Byrne
Stop me if youve heard this one before. Old friend returns as a vampire, fights
hero and heroine, heroine gets sucked on, hero defeats blood - sucker. A ruthlessly clichéd story, only lifted by Byrnes return
to form on art.
4
H.E.R.O DOUBLE FEATURE
Pfeifer & KATO
Bless em, DC come to my rescue
and release the first and second issues of the H.E.R.O series in a collected edition, otherwise I may not have discovered
this little gem. A simple premise-what if your life is in the toilet and then you get super-powers? -written intelligently
and engagingly, with some lovely evocative art that positively drips atmosphere. Based on the old Dial H for Hero strip, but
examining the effects super-powers have on the life of the individual, slacker Jerry Feldon is working as a soda jerk, until
one night he discovers a Hero dial amongst the dirty dishes. The consequences are both touching and tragic. Will Pfeifer writes
with a refreshing honesty as the hero calls a crisis hotline on the brink of suicide, and were made privy to the events that
have led to his despair. Recommended!
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H.E.R.O 3 Pfeifer & KATO
Not much more to say, really,
being the penultimate chapter of a four issue story, but KANOs art is still terrific, and well complimented by the excellent
colouring of Dave Stewart, whom I first noticed on early issues of Doom Patrol. In fact, if you like Doom Patrol (and everyone
should-bah!) then this just may be the book for you.
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H.E.R.O 4 Pfeifer
+ Kano
A satisfying, though slight,
conclusion to Jerry Feldons story, which still managed to bring a lump to my throat. Bless. Kanos evocative art, and Dave
Stewarts sumptious colours, are an absolute pleasure.
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H.E.R.O 6 Pfeifer + Kano
Andrea is trying to fit in at her new school, and the HERO dial may just be
what she needs to nurture those all important friendships. A touching tale that explores the bittersweet and difficult bonds
between children, with Kanos wonderfully expressive line-work effortlessly capturing the emotions that Pfeifer conveys in
a sparkling script.
HERO 11 Pfeifer + KANO
Oot! Oot! Hurm! Oot! Hurm! Hurm! Oot! Well, if it was good enough for Pfeifer..Nearly
22 pages of Neanderthal grunts before the Super Caveman meets his poor Future Shock ending. Nice art though.
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I
IDENTITY CRISIS
1 Meltzer & Morales
The anticipated death is sign-posted from the very first panel,
but Brad Meltzer draws the reader in with some very pleasing characterisation. Rags Morales has done better work, but still
captures the requisite emotion. The Michael Turner cover is cack.
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IDENTITY CRISIS 2 Meltzer & Morales
< + > A well told, if icky, tale of rape, retribution and revelation.
Meltzer walks a fine line between compelling drama and voyeuristic shocks, which might just lead to the baby being thrown
out with the bath water.
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IDENTITY CRISIS 3 Meltzer & Morales
<-> Uh oh! Plot flaws are starting to show; why was the silly (and not particularly well staged) fight with Slade,
not pre-empted by Zatanna the very moment he appeared? Why hasn’t Zee simply exclaimed "rellik s'euS em wohs, stirips
hO" and been done with it? Meltzer is keen to tell us she’s the most powerful of the lot, but so far she’s been
a bit of a boob. Morales’ art is slowly deteriorating, with some pretty useless head - shots of Supes to wince at, and
the earlier promise is rapidly evaporating, along with the hero’s supporting casts. A chicken drew the cover.
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IDENTITY CRISIS 6
Meltzer & Morales
The penultimate issue of DC’s extraordinarily successful whodunit, and Red Herring (sometimes partner of The
Blue Tuna) is revealed to be the killer. If so, some of Brad Meltzer’s conceits might not bear up to too close a scrutiny.
Rags Morales is good at capturing emotion, but there’s some clumsy figure work in evidence. Perhaps he is working under
too near a deadline.
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THE NEW INVADERS 0 Austen/Jacobsen & Smith/Walker
A disappointing start, if for no other reason than C P Smith’s art lacks any dynamic verve, drawn with lines
that all carry the same weight, sometimes crudely, and flattened out by the awful colouring process inflicted by Chris Walker.
It’s too early to tell how the writing will pan out, but Allan Jacobsen takes over full scripting chores next issue.
5
J
JLA 63 Kelly & Mahnke
The truth is out there, but Wonder Woman broke it!
While Diana is on a quest to mend her broken lasso, the JLA deal with the ramifications.
Joe Kellys dialogue may be flip at times, but his narrative is compelling.
The visuals are excellent and Doug Mahnke proves he was ideal for the job.
Isnt that the truth?
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JLA 82 Kelly + Rouleau
The White Rage 80-82: What started out as a mildly diverting comic book WACO analogy, finally descended into a miasma
of incomprehensibility. Kelly loses the plot, amidst a welter of unexplained, and not terribly interesting, antagonists, and
over eggs the pudding by tying in Faiths murky past. Thankfully the arc wasnt needlessly drawn out, and the pace was reasonably
brisk. Rouleaus pencils are a little on the cartoony side, without the quirky, but solid, stylings of Mahnke, and lack clarity
where some would be appreciated.
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JLA 91 Dennis ONeil +
Tan Eng Huat
If, as editor Mike Carlin believes, everyone has a great JLA story within them,
Dennis probably wrote his around 30 odd years ago. Theres nothing new here; a strange alien arrives and the JLA get involved.
Tan Eng Huats work is also a let down after his amazing stint on Doom Patrol. There is none of the incredible page layout
work that really lifted that title out of the ordinary, and his figure work looks uncomfortable at best.
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JLA Byrne & Claremont
Oh, dearie me, more of DCs ubiquitous blood suckers (see Hawkman this month), and Byrne gets to draw em again. At least this is a fairly decent read, with
some good art (Byrne inked by Ordway), and the re-introduction of DCs original team of misfit heroes (bringing on convulsive
fits amongst the continuity minded as I write).
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JLA 110 Busiek & Garney
The fourth part of an aborted (I wonder why?) Crime Syndicate of Amerika mini-series
that has so far been an utter yawn fest. As someone said to me the other day, “I’ve always thought that JLA would
benefit by the removal of the team and a focus on The Weaponers of Qward”. Something tells me he was flirting with irony.
Kurt Busiek’s dialogue is so effin dull, that it is left to Ron Garney, and his well-honed storytelling skills, to inject
some excitement. For anyone interested, the CSA are masquerading as our heroes, and The Thunderers stand around, a lot, pontificating
on something or other. It may all make sense, somehow, but I’ve truly lost the will to live.
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JLA CLASSIFIED 1 Morrison &
McGuinness
A stonkin’ good read.
Grant Morrison ploughs right in with man-eating, psychic Gorilla Grodd, a floating Super City of Superbia, infant Universes,
and Bats riding around in his dinky flying saucer. Oh, and lest we forget, we get a peek into Batman’s Sci-Fi closet.
So that’s where he’s kept all that tat from the 50’s! Grant is delivering high-octane, by the throat superhero
adventure, while Ed McGuinness channels the ghost of Jack Kirby with some action packed visuals that fairly leap off the page.
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JLA: CLASSIFIED 3 Morrison & McGuiness
Where do you go to hear Superman address a bunch of apes with “…a few bananas and you belong to anybody
it seems”? Only in a Grant Morrison written hymn to superheroes will you find dialogue that snaps, crackles and pops,
as Gorilla Grodd and The Ultramarines get their arses handed to them on a silver platter, and Ed McGuiness channels the energy
of Kirby with some bombastic pencils and layouts. As Wonder Woman would say, “HOLA!”
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JLA-AVENGERS 1 Busiek + Perez
Well, its no literary masterpiece, thats for sure, with plots lifted from countless
similar comics before. All the usual boxes are ticked; Universe spanning threat? Check; a quest for various objects of power?
Check; the teams controlled by a higher power? Check; misunderstandings and punch-ups? Check; which gives the whole thing
a slightly shop worn feel. The most fun will come from future interaction between the two teams, but for now there are a few
nice moments not to be sniffed at-Batman taking the Punisher to the cleaners between panels was priceless. The trick is to
imagine that youre a 13 year old again (hard for some of us, I know), put aside any cynical reservations, and just go with
the flow. George Perez does his usual thing, and certainly wont disappoint his many devoted fans.
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JUSTICE LEAGUE ELITE 1 Kelly & Mahnke
The Justice League’s new deep cover team gets to work, tackling the dirty jobs that Superman et al can’t.
Very readable, in that ironic Noughties way, but the overlapping dialogue boxes are wretched in their placement.
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JSA 37 Goyer + Johns &
Kirk
The pay-off to Stealing Thunder is slightly disappointing-I am still unsure
when the change was made to the Ultra Humanite only controlling Johnnys mind, instead of the old brain swapping routine. Issue
32 distinctly shows Johnny with bolts and stitches to the base of his cranium-are we in bait & switch territory here,
or mid-plot revision? Nevertheless, the resolution to Johnnys death is quite unexpected and joyful. The numerous Super-Folks
littering the pages serve as little more than panel filler, the usual consequence of multi character story lines-is it too
much to ask that they do something rather than stand around gawping?
7
JSA 39 Goyer + Johns & Gleason
To parody an Image comic is a redundant exercise, yet Geoff Johns & David
Goyer hand over a spotlight issue to Power Girls ample assets and fall flat on their respective arses. Bugger all happens
here of consequence, but an extended punch em up and some witless introspection on PGs part. Patrick Gleasons art is of the
soulless manga-ish variety, and he more than manages to perpetuate the locker room joke that is PGs chest. Puerile!
3
JSA 50 Goyer & Johns + Kirk
Princes of Darkness 46-50: Remember
when Anniversary issues told self contained stories, or tied up a long running plot? Goyer & Johns dont. Like a summer
blockbuster, full of sound and fury, short on plot and substance, but a few kewl moments thrown in along the way, so has been
Princes of Darkness; and its not over yet. Goyer & Johns might think there was too much story to tell in five issues,
but if theyd cut out all the redundant panels of the walk-on extras fighting (Oh look, theres Iron Munro, and theres Uncle
Samwho cares?), improved the pacing, and refined the focus, this might have made a reasonably exciting three issues; but then
it might not have been a natural fit for the obvious trade-paperback collection. Goyer and Johns have descended into laziness,
too enamoured of their kewl factor to fully concentrate on turning out a well constructed and plotted story. Leonard Kirk,
on the other hand, has been doing some of the best work of his career, and developed a real flair for interesting visuals
(Power Girls ample assets aside).
6
JSA: ALL-STARS 1
Goyer & Johns + Velluto
Not much cop this! An excruciatingly
underwritten (considering it involved the efforts of two writers-what do Johns and Goyer do? Meet up for lunch and write this
stuff on the back of a napkin? I imagine the conversation goes something like; ..and then they, like, fight, OK, and itll
be really rocking, butoh, dont forget to give Hawkgirl a smart one-liner, will you? Kewl!) set-up issue for a mini-series
showcasing the talents of other writers and artists. The JSA are attacked and trounced by the Injustice Society, which is
working for (youll love this one) a demon called Legacy! And we all know that the JSA theme is legacy; how piss poor and contrived
is that? Anyway, I got the impression that the next six issues are going to revolve around some of the JSA members getting
in touch with their feelings, and maybe, if were really lucky, theyll all have a lovely group hug for a finale. The art is
merely pedestrian.
3
JSA: ALL-STARS 2
Goyer & Johns + Winslade / Loeb + Sale
In the words of Hawkgirl
That is so incredibly lame, as she visits her <choke> adopted daughter, and the Golden Age Hawkman is late for dinner.
While the retro art on the GA Hawkman vignette has a certain charm, both stories were so slight I reckon they were suffering
from a particularly virulent eating disorder.
3
L
THE LEGION 5 Abnett/Lanning & Snejbjerg
A small band of Legionnaires return to the Galaxy of Legion Lost, to ostensibly
lay a few ghosts to rest, and end up defending the Progeny against annihilation.
The Legion renaissance continues admirably under the guest pencils of Peter
Snejbjerg, though I miss the regular artist Olivier Coipel.
If you were turned of by the Legion re-boot, then now is the time to get turned
back on again. LLL.
6
THE LEGION 6 Abnett + Lanning & Coipel
The Legion investigate President McCauley and discover something rotten in
the State of Denmark. Ras Al Ghul stands revealed as the villain of the piece, and it all ends with yet another explosive
climax. This title continues to build in intensity, as Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning invest the Legion with some much-needed
excitement. However, the real joy is in Olivier Coipels exquisite pencils. Look out for the small details, as when Chameleon
gives the thumbs up to Quantum Kid, and his assured sense of pacing and design. I realised I was smiling when I put this comic
down, and that doesnt happen often enough today.
8
THE LEGION 25 Abnett & Lanning + various
Its 45 years of The Legion, so any excuse for an anniversary issue, yes? Unfortunately,
this isnt much of one. Instead of a story, Abnett & Manning opt for a series of sub-plots drawn by their various collaborators,
but only two really shine. Eric Wright draws and colours a lovely three pages that captures the naïve early years of The Legion,
and Paul Rivoches deceptively simple style effortlessly evokes Element Lads sad story. Dave Cockrum, a seminal Legion artist,
has sadly seen better days, while the work of Harris & Feister is too darn clever for its own good. Regular artist Chris
Batista still suffers from some rather pedestrian character work and storytelling. Some of the sub-plots are intriguing, and
if one is a Legion fan, one will be interested in following them. Otherwise, its not a particularly satisfying read.
6
THE LEGION 29 Abnett & Lanning + Batista
So let me get this straight. As a result of 31st Century Darkseid
transporting his younger self into the future for a punch-up, all time is now unravelling, and everything that is, will now
be gone. In, like, a matter of minutes. So why are Violet, Kid Quantum and Superboy standing around grinning like a bunch
of loons? Is Batista not being given the correct art direction for the scripts, or does he not know how to draw anything else
but shit eating grins? This whole issue seriously lacks any element of tension, and I cant wait for the arc to be done.
4
LEGION 30 Abnett + Lanning
& Batista
Foundations concludes without any noticeable consequence to the last six issues
of sound and fury (but very little substance). Batista urgently needs to work on his composition to highlight what is important
(especially during the numerous fight scenes, as they are confused and tiresome), while DnA need to improve their dramatic
structure to prevent the Legion descending into a mindless series of events without tension.
4
LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES 2 Waid & Kitson
Someone has taken away the ability of young Naltorians to dream, and Dream Girl, Braniac 5,
Karate Kid and Shadow Lass will find out why. The new series kicks into high gear, as Mark Waid writes a teenage super
group for the 31st Century, today, and Barry Kitson realises that concept with a panache not seen since Levitz
& Giffen. It’s not your father’s Legion; it’s far too sexy for that.
8
M
THE MONOLITH 2 Palmiotti + Gray & Winslade
From what at first seemed a fairly unpromising premise (an everyday story of
a girl and her Golem), Palmiotti & Gray have spun an intriguing tale of Depression era New York, modern day crime, the
repercussions of an old lady's will upon her street-living niece, and the secrets harboured within the house left to her.
Palmiotti & Gray's intelligent script is well served by the atmospheric pencils and inks of Phil Winslade, who manages
to perfectly define the world in which these characters exist.
6
N
DC: THE NEW FRONTIER 3 Cooke & Stewart
Darwyn Cooke is one of the new breed of comic book creators that can, and does,
see the romance in the super-hero genre. Not for Darwyn the broken spirited heroes of today, but rather a time when those
gaudy men and women fought the good fight, and flirted, and gave some colour back to the world. Dave Stewart should get a
special mention for the colour, an expressionistic palette that he washes across the panels, held in check by Cookes solid
blacks; like a stained glass window into a world of adventure. Cooke is writing a period piece for DCs heroes of the 50s,
ostensibly telling the story of how the Justice League came to be; but it is so much more than that. It reads as a love letter
to our childhood, and to Darwyns belief in Hal Jordan as a man of courage and conviction. Highly recommended.
8
NEW
X MEN 142 Morrison + Bachalo
Cyclops is in a strop over his love life and drowns in self pity at the Hellfire Club. Wolverine shows up to drink
him under the table, while imparting some love- lorn advice. Grant Morrison's words carry a character piece that would have
been better served by an artist team capable of depicting true emotion, and less reliant on claustrophobic solid blacks.
7
NEW X MEN 150 Morrison + Jimenez
Magneto, all but abandoned by his Brotherhood
of Ugly Mutants while rushing on Kick, is finally despatched as Planet X draws to a brutal close. As promised, an X Man dies,
but probably not for long, eh? Morrison has had fun with all the familiar X obsessions, greeting them head on with a fresh
eye and producing (at times) a thoroughly gripping soap opera.
7
NEW X MEN 153 Morrison
& Silvestri
150 years into the (possible) future, the Beast has supposedly gone bad, The
Phoenix has hatched, Cassandra Nova (Chucks evil twin sister) is leading a rag tag team of X Men, and sundry anonymous mutants
are running around. Honestly, I tried, but this was one of the most confusing comics I've read in awhile (ahem, after Superman
200). Disjointed, obscure, dialogue, coupled with Marc Silvestris inarticulate art, had me scratching me head looking for
some illumination.
4
O
THE O-MEN 24 Martin
Eden
Let's be clear about my prejudices; mainstream spandex is my
tonic, and photocopied pamphlets exist somewhere below getting the dog de-loused and a visit to the dentist. Having said that,
Martin seems like a nice guy, and a quid wouldn't have bought me another Seventies Supergirl. The O-Men certainly kept me
entertained on the train back from Bristol, and while Martin still has a fair way to go in the art department (the figure
work is a bit ropey, and the backgrounds leave a lot to be desired), his storytelling is accomplished. The pacing was fine,
and the characters immediately drew me in. I might suggest that Martin try using a few more spot blacks to add some extra
depth to the panels, and to look at how a greater focus on composition might improve the look of individual pages. The O-Men
also has something mainstream comics don't; an (enthusiastic) letter page. I'll
be looking out for issue 25. Is that an omen?
6
THE ORDER 1 Busiek /Duffy & Haley
This is a strange kettle ofish. Marvel fumbled the ball with The Defenders
re-launch, but this doesnt quite work either. Kurt Busiek & Jo Duffy set up a status quo reminiscent of The Authority,
but without that titles dubious panache. Matt Haleys pencils are pleasant enough and adequately convey the words, which are
unfortunately lettered in hard to read lower case. This is not a good idea. At least favourites Nighthawk, Hellcat and Valkyrie
have a homefor now.
5
R
ROSE AND THE THORN 4 Simone + Melo
Gail Simone continues her renovation of Robert Kanigher's Seventies creation,
but with modern sensibilities. One may have some slight difficulty recognising the psychotic heroine who likes to play with
sharp thingies (while pursuing associates of the 100), but Simone impresses with her assured storytelling and vividly drawn
protagonist. Adrianna Melo seems an artist cut from the classic mold, with some slight Jerry Ordway influences. That's not
a bad thing.
6
S
SEAGUY 1 Morrison
& Stewart
I approached this with caution, imagining an obscurity in the tradition of
The Invisibles or The Filth, but was thoroughly surprised to find that Grant has worn his super-hero love on his sleeve for
all to see, and produced a lovely whimsical confection. Seaguy (accompanied by his buddy the talking tuna) is a hero in a
world that has no more need for heroes after a final cataclysmic battle with The Anti-Dad. He may just find things are about
to change. Cameron Stewart perfectly captures Grant's whimsy, with a toon style that served him well recently on Catwoman.
Please buy this, so we can have a Volume 2.
TS 8
SEAGUY 2 Morrison & Stewart
Morrisons frivolity is infectious, and superbly complemented by Cameron Stewarts effective pencils. I challenge anyone
not to giggle at the octopus shepherd, or choke back a sob by the final panel.
8
SHE HULK 1 Slott & Bobillo
Third time lucky for Bruce Banner's more glamorous cousin? On the evidence presented here - a smart, funny and perfectly
paced script- let's hope so. The high concept (Ugh!) is Ally McBeal with superheroes, so Shulkie parties, shags, wins important
cases, and saves the world with The Avengers, but is nowhere near as drippy as Ms Flockhart. Juan Bobillo is a find, with
an extremely attractive style that matches the mood perfectly.
7
SHE-HULK 4 Slott & Bobillo
Another pleasing issue as Dan Slott effortlessly infuses Marvel continuity with witty courtroom drama. Juan Bobillo
captures the tone of this series with panache, which is more than can be said for the technically skilled, but samey (and
sludgy) covers.
7
1602 3 Gaiman + Kubert
A dull, pompous, and lacklustre load of twaddle for the too cool for school
kids. Step back in amazement as some overly familiar Marvel faces wander around in Elizabethan drag doing, erm, well not much
of anything really. Nowt more than a trumped up What If?, with even an off panel cameo from The Watcher (did you miss it?
Dont worry; Im sure someone will annotate it). Id recap the plot, but my mind wanders so much while reading this that Ive
redecorated the bathroom twice over. Buy it, if you must, for the rather fun covers.
2
SUPERGIRL 69 David
& Kirk
Thats more like it! This title has been meandering for a while now, but the
final page promises an imminent resolution to Peter Davids over-extended plot line. Leonard Kirk turns in his usual solid
performance, as Supergirl picks a fight with the two lesser members of the Marvel family. While never essential, this book
often rewards the faithful.
6
SUPERGIRL 71 David + Igle
Sometimes I wish Peter David would quit with the flipping comedy routine. On
an occasional basis it can be refreshing, but used regularly it becomes mundane and trite. I find it especially hard to relate
to his characters and the presumably dire situations they encounter, when any tension is routinely dismissed with a jokey
one liner. This is part 199 (or so it seems) of Davids search for the Earth Angel plot, with a few pertinent plot dialogues
thrown in to enliven the otherwise tired, old, Aztec sacrifice scenario. Jamal Igles pencils are mostly competent, but lack
any character.
6
SUPERMAN 10 CENT ADVENTURE Seagle & McDaniel
Just how many bloody Supergirls does the DC Universe need? Sheesh! Superman
knocks around with the instantly forgettable Amok, while contorting himself into positions to make the Elongated Man proud.
How the heck is his arse connected to his torso on page one? Buggered if I know. Touted as a jumping on point, Im jumping
back off. Steven T Seagle seems to have little of interest to say, and Scott McDaniel understands anatomy as much as I do
quantum physics.
4
SUPERMAN 200 Seagle + McDaniel & Various
Huh???!!! No, seriously, can someone explain this comic to me?
0
SUPERMAN 204 Azzarello & Lee
This is just a bit odd,
and not a lot of fun. One might expect a comic
called Superman to feature a hero doing something, er, super. Azzarello,
instead,
is content to play out a conversation between Supes and a Priest,
agonising over a lost of faith and generally being miserable,
while making
obtuse references to an event that happened 'one year ago' (whenever that
might be). Lee, inked by Williams,
does his usual thing with lots of lines,
which while not bad, certainly has some rough edges and kinks to iron out.
Not
super enough for such a fanfared re-launch.
6
SUPERMAN 205 Azzarello & Lee
Issue 204: take 2. Superman carries on the same tiresome conversation with the priest, but this time, just to liven
things up a tad, he eats a peach. Dull, witless, and beyond comprehension.
3
SUPERMAN/BATMAN 8 Loeb & Turner
In the spirit of DC's new philosophy of giving the readers what they want (now there's a challenge), everything old
is now new again, as a once familiar face crash lands in Gotham City. Jeph Loeb, bless 'im, bludgeons home the sad fact that
Superman is >sob< alone in the world (apart from his superdog-get over it you big wuss) in the first few pages, before,
surprise, surprise, a perky cousin from a long dead world shows up for a family reunion. Awwww... Michael Turner's art is
kinda scratchy and spiky (his men are hollow-cheeked and the women weirdly eyed), but isn't worth the price of admission when
a fair proportion of the dialogue is (infuriatingly) in Kryptonese. If Loeb wants
to be clever, couldnt DC at least provide a glossary?
5
SUPERMAN/BATMAN 9 Loeb & Turner
My eyes! My eyes! Strewth, the art in this book is barely more competent than
fan art (check out the final page with an anorexic Wonder Woman, and a Kara that by rights shouldnt be able to stand up properly,
considering she has an abdomen that goes on for miles), heavily disguised by garish computer aided colouring effects. I could
almost get behind Jeph Loebs overblown dramatics, if they made any sense; as it is, this is Event lead pap, with a glossy
veneer.
3
SUPERMAN/BATMAN 11 Loeb & Turner
Supes,
Bats, and Wondy, accompanied by an anorexic Big Barda, travel to Apokolips to rescue Kara in a furiously trite example of
crap comics. Turner’s art can only be described as adolescent chicken scratching.
2
SUPREME POWER 5 Straczynski + Frank
The pace has picked up somewhat, but where exactly is this series going? Is
there a story unfolding as one character after another is slowly introduced? Theres no denying its written and drawn well,
but a little impetus would be nice, otherwise itll be 2006 before Lady Lark shows up.
7
SUPREME POWER 14 Strsczynski & Frank
Near enough 20 years ago, Alan Moore wrote Miracleman 15, in which the eponymous
‘hero’ and his ‘sidekick’ Johnny Bates, kicked the living snot out of each other. If you read that
comic, chances are, Déjà vu may not be the only sensation you’ll experience. Gary Frank does well to capture J.Michael’s
‘tribute’ to that past classic, but surely Straczynski has some new ideas to offer?
6
T
TIGRA 1 Christina Z & Deodato Jr
Tigra begins an investigation into a vigilante group, The Brethren of the Blue
Fist, and discovers a connection to her long deceased husband. While not the most original of plots, Christina Z tells a compelling
story, ably assisted by Mike Deodatos
luscious pencils and inks. The dialogue is taut and effective; the art is moody
and evocative, and best of all, opens with a moonlit cemetery scene. Thatll do me.
7
THE TITANS 38 Faerber & Kitson
Epsilons dark secret is revealed (he
washes with Head & Shoulders?), Nightwing declares he knew all along, and Argent gets to express herself. Oh boy.
Probably the best issue in some time, and a perfect example of a skilled artist
lifting a mediocre writer. Barry Kitsons pacing has worked wonders for Jay Faerbers script.
6
THE TITANS 39 Faerber
& Kitson
The Titans and the JSA gather at what was Titans Tower for a bit of a chin
wag, and new baddies Dark Nemesis get taken down by the Titans while trying to steal some (plot development) files. Not much
in the way of a plot, but some pleasant down time characterisation. Jay Faebers dialogue is nicely played; while Barry Kitson
continues to elevate this title above its previous level of mediocrity.
6
U
ULTIMATE WAR 2 Millar & Bachalo
War. What is it good for? Ultimately nothing! I shant say it again. But I will
berate this comic for Mark Millars camp dialogue (is Magneto auditioning for the next Bond villain?), and the art. What you
can make out of it, anyway. Its far too dark, with too many spotted blacks (with black borders yet), and some seriously slack
storytelling. Consequently, what should have been a truly dramatic scene was lost to obscurity. Did Pietro die at Magnetos
hands? Who knows, and ultimately, who cares.
Anyway, Magneto attacks the Ultimates in their base, the X Men talk shop, and
the appalling cover reminds one of the shiny loo roll that one used to find in school bogs.
5
THE ULTIMATES 12 Millar + Hitch
Maybe the wide screen blockbuster, with kewl throwaway lines, approach to comics
is getting a tad too last week. Cap battles it out with the Chitauri big wig, while the others do what they can to stem the
invasion. But like a kebab from the dodgy shop opposite the all-night garage after a night on the bevy, reading The Ultimates
can sometimes only seem like a good idea at the time. Hitch has a nice Joe Kubert thing going on in places, though.
6
THE ULTIMATES 13 Millar & Hitch
Hahaha! Mr Millar, you had me going there for a while, but I finally got the
joke. The last issue of The Ultimates (Volume 1), in all its glory hogging grandeur, beautifully illustrates the shallowness
of modern pop culture, and comic book super-heroes in turn. From the banal, bubblegum dialogue, to the crass deconstruction
of your fathers heroes, the parody explicitly works as an essay on pointlessness, strengthened further in its reach by Mr
Hitchs inimitable, over-rendered pencils. The pompous preoccupations of yoof culture have never been summed up better, than
in the legend Hulk straight! The Ultimates has been a work of true genius, and deserves a re-reading cast in this new light.
8
UNCANNY X-MEN 446 Claremont & Davis
<-> What a bloomin’ let down. Claremont had the perfect opportunity to kill of annoying characters like
Bishop and Cannonball last issue, by letting Fury, the unstoppable killing machine, do its’ job. Still, there’s
always hope.
6
W
WONDER WOMAN 178 Jimenez
& Martinez
Our woman of wonder goes on a date, and gets all fruity with potential new
boyfriend Trevor Barnes, a man who never seems to smile. Meanwhile, Wonder Girl mopes over a letter from an estranged relative.
I smell a sub plot.
New artist Roy Allan Martinez has a sedate, but expressive style, perfectly
suited to Phil Jimenezs soap operatics.
But dont forget the Troia short. I did.
6
WONDER WOMAN 179 Jimenez & Martinez
Wonder Woman and her damsel in distress, Trevor Barnes, begin their adventure
in Skartaris; encountering dinosaurs, munchkins with dialogue impediments, and Giganta of the newly formed Villainy, Inc.
Roy Allan Martinezs art is lovely to look at, though he isnt too assured on action sequences, working best in the quieter
scenes. The real problem here is Phil Jimenezs pedestrian plotting and dull dialogue. Perhaps a stronger editorial presence
would be of benefit to the overall quality of this title.
6
WONDER WOMAN 180 Jimenez
& Martinez
Oops! I think the plot fell out of my copy of this book. Anyway, Phil Jimenez
strings together some Villainy Inc. Secret Files and laces them with tedious exposition. Roy Allan Martinez turns in some
uneven art, and the most interesting thing around is Trevor Barnes new, erm, fey look. You go girl!
4
WONDER WOMAN 184 Jimenez
& Jimenez
An absolutely stunning cover by Adam Hughes, that made me want to read the
darned thing. After months of fill-in artists, Phil Jimenez returns to full art chores, and what a difference it makes. His
pacing improves considerably, though the story itself is apparently a farce; that will account for Wonder Woman twirling into
Miss America then. Yep, its a time travel story, with all the usual fan boy nonsense about not interfering with the time stream,
and a herd of comedy dinosaurs.
7
WONDER WOMAN 188 Jimenez
& Jimenez
Did we really need this? For his final issue, Jimenez indulges himself by incorporating
just about every naff costume the saintly Lynda Carter ever wore, in the TV show that will forever live on in the minds of
certain fans. Anyone for a skateboarding Princess of Themyscira? When not satisfying this unnatural urge, Jimenez took some
time to wrap up some dangling plotlines (but not all), and ends on a cheery high note to end another day in the life of Wonder
Woman.
5
WONDER WOMAN 189 Simonson & Ordway
Hurrah! Walt Simonson takes over for a six-month story arc, and my interest
increases ten fold. Simonson opens with an intriguing premise, with enough foreshadowing and plot to keep me guessing. Wonder
Woman has vanished without a trace, but who is that woman dressed in white with a warriors heart? It was great to see Diana react instinctively and decisively for once, despite her apparent confusion,
and Jerry Ordways (with P Craig Russell on inks) pencils are fluid and dynamic without fussy attention to detail. Above all,
this was just a rollicking good comic book.
7
WONDER WOMAN 194 Simonson + Ordway
The Game of the Gods 189-194: Always meant to be an interim period between
creators, Walt Simonson focused on telling a story exploring who Wonder Woman is, her relationship to the gods, and to generally
have fun with DCs, supposedly, premiere heroine. To that end, he stripped her of her powers, gave her a new do (OH MY GOD,
THEY CUT WONDER WOMANS HAIR!), instilled in her a sense of humour, and gave her a badass opponent in the form of The Shattered
God. This generally played out well, but the first and last parts were definitely the strongest, while the middle was, sadly,
a bit flabby. That said, the conclusion was more than satisfying, and laid to rest a supporting cast member who took more
than his fair share of criticism. Jerry Orways art invoked a time when storytelling was more important than over rendered
panels, but never seemed to quite gel with the inks of P Craig Russell, a usually very sensitive inker.
6
WONDER WOMAN 195 Rucka + Johnson
Another new creative team, and another new direction; this time Diana does
The West Wing-which is no bad thing when one remembers that it wasnt so long ago that it was Diana does Sunset Beach. This
is an introductory, getting to know you, scene setter, and fulfils its obligations in a perfunctory, but entertaining, manner.
Theres a new cast, and a new status quo, and Rucka seems to have a firm grasp on his themes and direction; which hopefully
will be bought into sharper focus when the main event begins. The biggest disappointment is Drew Johnsons art, which is not
entirely up to professional standards. His anatomy and perspective are poor, and he doesnt exactly imbue his characters with
any real sense of being. He may grow into the job, but Id rather not pay to see someone learn on the go on such a high profile
project.
6
WONDER WOMAN 196 Rucka + Johnson
Oh dearie me! Perhaps in an effort to prove that the pen really is mightier
than the sword, Wonder Woman publishes a book of her essays and pious thoughts, the local chapter of a kids WW club gets closed
down as a result, and some Machiavellian scheming is undertaken to discredit Diana through her words. As if. It wont set any
hearts racing with pulse-pounding action, but Ruckas deft words and Johnsons improving pencils are a start in the right direction.
7
WONDER WOMAN 197 Rucka + Johnson
Eek! Madame Ambassador, after risking repetitive strain injury during yet another
book signing, has a friendly little chat with an agitated Bluebird, and rushes to the scene of a forest fire, presumably to
save all his friends. Once there though, she doesnt do much of, erm, anything, apart from convince The Flash that it is best
to do nowt but protect property. How <choke> ironic that this issue was released the same month that vast acres of California
were devastated by wildfires. Its competently written, and adequately drawn, but just a tad worthy and dull.
6
WONDER WOMAN 199 Rucka + Johnson
The penultimate issue before the, supposedly, grand conclusion to Down To Earth,
and still the story is bogged down in ideology. Some great characterisation, and Rucka has succeeded in making the gods interesting
at long last (no more moping about in togas), but there doesnt seem to be any real sense of drama. Johnsons pencils, when
hes not drawing some ropey looking figure work, have a smooth, plastic quality thats not very endearing, nor interesting.
6
WONDER WOMAN 200 Rucka + Johnson & Various
Hey ho, so its issue 200, and the old girl celebrates being 60 and a bit years
old. But quite frankly, she hasnt got a great deal to celebrate at the moment. Rucka is a fine writer, but hes not suited
to super-heroics (and no, Wonder Woman should not be an Ambassador) and seems to have a vague repulsion at the thought that
she might actually have to hit someone, sometime, somewhere. Johnson is particularly bad this time around, with stiff, unnatural
figure work, fluffed fight scenes (what exactly was happening during the fight with Silver Swan, eh?), lousy layouts and a
splash page of Paradise (floating) Island crashing into the sea that looks like nowt more than a kiddies toy being knocked
over in the bath. It would be incongruous to describe this as the conclusion to Down To Earth. Its nothing of the sort. The
Golden Age and Silver Age pastiches are generally fun, but arent really anything more than filler, and Wonder Girl narrating
the story of Medusa is a snore. There are some text pages made up to look like pages from a Newspaper that purport to give
some insight into that book that Dianas been writing, but I couldnt be arsed to read them.
5
WONDER WOMAN 201 Rucka & Davis
A much needed step in the right direction, as Rucka ups the ante in the aftermath
of Themysciras destruction. Guest artist Shane Davis is a vast improvement on regular artist Drew Johnston, providing clear,
action-packed visuals to complement Ruckas strong script; I am, however, still mystified as to how Diana stops the Tsunami
from laying waste to the Carolinas? Did she use her Wonder Scream, perchance?
6
WONDER WOMAN 203 Rucka & Sadowski
Hi, Im Veronica Cale, and this is my story; so that bitch Diana can bog off
for the month. Rucka gives us the inside story on Wonder Womans new nemesis, and its all very (yawn) interesting. Her motives
are mundane; poor little girl makes good, has her thunder stolen by the perfect woman, so turns to Machiavellian scheming
and murder. Boo hoo!
5
WONDER WOMAN 212 Rucka & Raiz
This comic might just have passed the grade, if I accept that everything leading
up to this point was Ruczka’s idea of foreplay, but it was blown by the execrable inks of Ray Snyder over guest artist
James Raiz. Page 8, top panel; are there really editors at DC that pass this work of as professional? Wonder Woman is blind,
so the JLA have to beat her up to prove a point, she trots off to say to say
something at a Memorial service (her role in the DC Universe nowadays, it seems), and then gets god-napped into her next adventure.
This comic is the reading equivalent of waking up next morning, after the night before, and realising you should have taken
the night bus home instead.
3
NOW GO READ SOMEONE ELSE'S THOUGHT'S.......