Tag: New 52

Arrow is #1 at CW…Who’s Next?

May. 09 Comic Books, Editorials, News, Press Release, Television 2 comments

Arrow, the television series based on the Green Arrow character from DC Comics is nearing the end of its first season and is officially the network’s #1 show! Not surprising, the show is actually pretty good. Creators Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim, Andrew Kreisberg have woven a tale about an every-man hero in a dark and dangerous environment. Starling City is corrupt, dark, and filled with adventure. It is somewhat reminiscent of another DC Comics City with a “non-powered” vigilante protector.

 

Arrow

Arrow Television Cast

 

This show is not about your father’s Green Arrow. It’s an updated, younger version that deals with today’s issues in a hip and often sophisticated way. The young Oliver Queen was a spoiled trust fund kid, who cared little about his effect on the world. He lied, cheated, and used his name and family to justify the behavior. That is, until a shipwreck cost him, his friend, and father and stranded Oliver in a frightening 5 year fight for his life. The show weaves flashbacks to Oliver’s island ordeal alongside the current time stories showing how he gained the skills and knowledge that he uses as Starling City’s vigilante. The Arrow identity is used, by Queen, to hunt down men on a list of criminals that his father gave him before he died. This all translates into a ratings success for CW and a successful comic translation for DC who really wanted to stay in the game post Smallville.

 

Smallville

Smallville

 

So, What’s next for DC Comics on television? There has been a lot of talk out there that Nightwing should be next. He fits the mold of the non-powered vigilante hero in a grim city that DC seems to like to produce. Gotham City itself could be the basis of a show for that matter. With the murderer’s row of villains, heroes and even the police department to base stories on the possibilities seem endless. It seems, though that DC and the CW want to stay less mainstream, and more edgy with their choice, which could possibly be The Suicide Squad. Andrew Kreisberg commented recently about A.R.G.U.S. appearing in Arrow, “we carefully chose A.R.G.U.S. and did not make Lyla Michaels work for the FBI or CIA.”  A.R.G.U.S. is a government agency that deals with superhuman issues in the DC Universe. They have been tied to the Justice League as liaisons, support personnel and even clean-up squads.

 

ARGUS

Seal of A.R.G.U.S.

 

The inclusion of A.R.G.U.S. in the world of the Arrow could be a hint into DC’s thinking for the future. With Marvel releasing their TV property, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., soon, DC could certainly be looking to counter with a similar but opposite offering. Marvel’s S.H.I.E.L.D. are the good guys. They are the G.I.Joe of the Marvel Universe. DC’s Suicide Squad couldn’t be more opposite. The Squad is composed of  a group of long-time criminals and misfits who were coerced into doing jobs for the government that no one else would do. Under the thumb of Amanda Waller, and the threat of immediate death, the squad performs covert jobs and often do not return, as the title would imply. The more recent version of the group started in Legends #3 in 1987 as written by John Ostrander and has changed drastically in the three series since. The team was dysfunctional, but effective. There have been many roster changes throughout the years, but at least one connection to Arrow is there,  Deadshot. We have a government agency, and a member of the Suicide Squad both tied to DC’s current TV property. Looks like DC may be using their #1 rated show to field test their next one. If written correctly Suicide Squad could be a great show. There is certainly nothing like it on TV today, with the possible exception of Jersey Shore. Potentially good shows like Birds of Prey failed in the past due to writing that wasn’t exciting or inspirational, and a lack of use of the powerful roster of characters DC has at their disposal. Let’s hope if they do produce Suicide Squad, they make it a freak show of characters and stories that make us beg for more every week. I will certainly make room in my day to watch truly good comics translations on TV.

 

Suicide Squad

Suicide Squad: Deadshot (far left)

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Earth 2 Batman: Who’s Behind The Cowl?

May. 08 Comic Books, News, Press Release, Previews 1 comment
Batman of Earth 2

Earth 2 reveals Batman

 

Earth 2 will be getting a new Batman, but who will don the cape and cowl and carry the mantle of the Dark Knight? Everyone is being very hush-hush, of course, but that is not going to stop Bat-Fans or Earth 2 fans from speculating. James Robinson has been slow-playing the readers for months. He’s taken his time to introduce and develop the characters, as he is known for doing. His run on Starman remains among my favorite series, and I have been reading comics since the mid 1970s. He developed a rich and beautiful environment in Opal City with the city itself becoming an integral character. The other main character, Jack Knight, was born to be a hero, and grew into the role like no Starman before him. Robinson also breathed life into a relatively unimpressive villain, making The Shade an interesting adversary, foil, and even partner for the enigmatic Starman. When it was announced that Earth 2 would be Robinson’s playground for the Justice Society, post New 52, I was all-in!

 

Earth 2

Earth 2 by James Robinson

 

At the beginning Earth 2 was an action movie on paper. Darkseid sent his parademons to Earth 2 under the command of Steppenwolf. The war was devastating to Earth 2. The Trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman were left practically alone to stop the final onslaught. It looked grim for this alternate Earth until Batman devised a plan. It ended with the sacrifice of all three heroes and was still barely enough to stem the tide. Earth 2 was not without heroes for long, almost as if nature itself, with the help of some powerful benefactors, had to find worthy vessels for powers otherwise lost. As the world and characters developed the action slowed a bit. The subsequent issues drew the reader in, just as the various JSA heroes found themselves drawn to each other. Now, we’re a year in and it only makes sense that some brave hero would pick up the mantle of the Batman. But who? I have a few possibilities…

 

Wildcat

Wildcat, Ted Grant

 

1. Ted Grant (Wildcat) is a natural to eventually appear in Earth 2 continuity. Why not as the Batman? He has the right skill set, and this war-torn world could sure use a Batman. Regardless of the parallels, I’m not sure how likely this is. Robinson loves to take the underdog character and breathe new life into him. This could play either way for Wildcat. On the one hand, Robinson could really make Ted Grant a robust and full character, as Wildcat. On the other hand, he could just make him the Batman, and run with it. I’m sure Wildcat will have a home in Earth 2, I just don’t think that it will be as The Dark Knight.

 

Damian Wayne

Damian Wayne

 

2. My next possible New Batman is the Earth 2 version of Damian Wayne. We know Bruce Wayne had a daughter on Earth 2. Helena, aka Robin, daughter of Bruce and Catwoman, ended up on New Earth after the climactic battle of the Apokoliptan invasion. Could Earth 2′s Batman have had another child? A son? Why not? It would be a bit of a cop-out to kill Damian in Batman Incorporated #8, then resurrect him fairly quickly into the Earth 2 continuity. Then again, maybe that was the plan all along. There were so many stories left untold when the young Wayne died. So many stories that I wouldn’t mind James Robinson telling. As much as I would like to see the character back, I’m not sure this is the right time or place.

 

Dick Grayson

Dick Grayson

 

3. My final possibility, and most likely in my opinion, is Dick Grayson. This is just a logical choice. Many fans were disappointed when, after the 1993 story arc entitled Knightfall, in which Batman was gravely injured, Grayson was not tapped as his replacement. Instead, Jean-Paul Valley, better known as Azrael was chosen. Years later in 2008, following the events of Final Crisis, Dick Grayson actually does become Batman, with Damian Wayne as his Robin. His attempt at being Batman was half-hearted at best, and was interrupted by Jason Todd, who had also assumed the role of Batman. Earth 2 could be just the place for Dick Grayson to finally get a true shot at the cowl. He could assume the mantle and give back to his world a hero that they so desperately need.

Personally, I hope that it’s Dick Grayson because I grew up idolizing his Robin character, and later his Nightwing persona. It would certainly satisfy the unfulfilled desires of the fan base without alienating anyone. It’s Earth 2, and James Robinson is at the wheel, so anything can happen. Maybe I should have considered Bruce Wayne himself as the “New” Batman. It wouldn’t be the first time he survived sure death and returned against all odds. I really hope this isn’t the case. New Earth has a Bruce Wayne/Batman. Earth 2 Batman should be different, and should be the basis for epic adventures well into the future.  Robinson himself said, ““He’s a huge part of ‘Earth 2,’ he’s going to be a huge part of the DC Universe, and everything he does from the Annual onward will have huge implications for the DC Universe. This isn’t some new person coming in to be Batman. This is definitely a part of Batman lore.” We will all find out as soon as Earth 2 Annual #1 hits the shelves. I only have one question left…Is it here yet?

 

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More Continuity Challenges In The New 52?

Apr. 29 Comic Books, News, Press Release 1 comment

Is DC setting themselves up for more continuity challenges in the New 52 universe? As if they aren’t already boggling the minds of longtime DC Comics readers, there is a new rumor in the air. Bob Harras, Editor In Chief at DC Comics, teased the possibility of a Cyborg Superman in the New 52. He stated, “As I’ve been telling you, all bets are off. Everything’s on the table.”

 

Cyborg Superman New 52 Continuity

Cyborg Superman circa 2013 by Kenneth Rocafort

 

Such a general statement could mean just about anything.  For example, it could mean that continuity is now irrelevant. This would allow DC writers to run wild without concern for past stories. It could also mean that the power brokers at DC are hurriedly trying to shore up continuity gaffs. They may be trying to reintroduce fan favorite characters, or even crucial story lines to their confusing pantheon.

 

Cyborg Superman Original DC continuity

Cyborg Superman circa 2007 by Ethan Van Sciver

 

The original Cyborg Superman, then known as Hank Henshaw, was introduced in Superman #42. He was part of an ill-fated NASA space flight where his human body died, but he was able to save his consciousness in a LexCorp mainframe. He used it to create a new cyborg body, left Earth, and didn’t return until after Superman died at the hands of Doomsday. Convinced Superman was involved in the destruction of his body, he decided to become the new Superman when he supposedly died. The Eradicator, however, challenged him for the title of the new Superman, so Cyborg Superman decided to destroy Coast City and frame Eradicator. This plot resulted in both the death of Eradicator and the restoration of the original Superman’s powers.

These story lines were epic and critical to the old continuity of the DC Universe. They were also thrown away as if they had never happened when DC launched The New 52. While I’m certain that the residents of Coast City appreciate the reprieve, fans of Superboy, Eradicator, and dare I say… Cyborg Superman, might disagree. I’m not sure how the brilliant minds at DC will attack this continuity problem. As a longtime fan of comics, I have one simple request: Do not simply retell the original story to bring the continuity into the New 52. Be original. Be brilliant. Make history.

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Review: Batman and Robin #19 (Spoilers!)

Apr. 10 Comic Books, Reviews no comments

br19

When they announced the WTF twist for this month’s Batman and Robin, I was a tad livid. I am not the biggest fan of The Dark Knight Returns, and I am still of the vehement opinion that the recent death of Damian Wayne was incredibly unneeded. So my reaction upon seeing the WTF cover was something that is not fit to print. Why her?! And Damian wasn’t even cold in the grave yet! Did Tomasi owe money to Miller or something? This has to be a feint! And so forth.

So imagine my surprise when I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Much as I suspected, the cover was a “bait and switch”, but Carrie is important to get the ball rolling. We meet the now college aged redhead driving down a road reciting Shakespeare and dealing with cat-calling jerks (PIZZA TO THE FACE!) before dropping off a stack of college level lessons for Damian, establishing a connection to be explored. Alas, she doesn’t know that her pupil has taken a leave of absence from life. And Bruce, still dealing with his loss, is not happy. So he decides to return them to her.

batman-and-robin-19-pg04

Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
Artist: Pat Gleason
Release Date: 4/10/13

Needless to say, her costume that she’s wearing to the party at her apartment was probably the worse thing he could see. The confrontation is quick, ending with her screaming out the window asking where Damian is. This then brings us to the meat of our story. Batman kidnaps everyone’s favorite flesh golem and agent of SHADE, Frankenstein, and returns him to the Arctic lab of Dr. Frankenstein. Batman’s purpose is clear: He is going to resurrect Robin, and Frankenstein’s body holds the key for doing that. Needless to say, a worried Alfred has dispatched Red Robin (this month’s guest star former Robin) to stop Bruce before he does the ungodly. In the interim, Frankenstein tries to talk Batman out of it, using his own past, and events similar to what happened in Batman Incorporated #8, to show that Batman is going about things the wrong way. This falls on deaf ears, and by the time Red Robin arrives, a still conscious Frankenstein is on the table. Red Robin tries to reason with him, but Batman is beyond reason, and Tim has to destroy the experiment and experience the extreme amount of anger radiating from his mentor and father-figure.

A final coda with Carrie leaves us with a couple of questions.

I actually liked Carrie here; she is concerned about her prized pupil and is gutsy enough to stand up to Bruce in her brief confrontation with him. It also allays my fears that even if she does become Robin, or not, it will not be anytime soon. As for the main part of the story, Frankenstein’s trying to reason with Batman will make you want to cry. Not just because they have a similar recent past, but because Batman has given himself into his grief and rage. His look at Tim at the end is one of utter betrayal. However, I think this dive into grief might be a tad over the top. Granted, Damian is his son but the fact that he’s cutting family ties this quickly when Tim stands up to him is a bit much, even for Batman.

As for art, Gleason is excellent. His Batman sequences have the right amount of darkness and gloom, not to mention a two page spread referencing the patchwork flesh of Frankenstein. His bits with Carrie has a much brighter color palette, as if to divide the world of Batman and his grief from Carrie and her hunt for Damian.

With my worse fear about the issue removed from the plate, I can say this is a strong issue with as much, if not more, emotional impact as the previous issue.

And I might like the new Carrie Kelley over the original.

Notes:

-The pizza to the face…sorry but that is all kinds of awesome

-Frankenstein on the table to Tim: “I would appreciate a hand getting myself together”. Many of the great lines this issue comes from the undead agent of SHADE

-Carrie as a film student, that gets bonus points from me. It suits her.

-Did Damian consider taking up acting after the events of Batman and Robin Annual #1?

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DC Comics And Beyond – Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files: Ghoul Goblin #3

Mar. 14 DC Comics And Beyond, Reviews no comments

Publisher: Dynamite!
Writers: Jim Butcher & Mark Powers
Artist: Joseph Cooper
Release Date: March 13, 2013

DC Comics, Jim Butcher, Wayne Hall, Batman, New 52, The Dresden Files, Harry Dresden, Damien Wayne, RobinI’ve been a big fan of The Dresden Files ever since Syfy created a television series based on the novels several years back. To prepare for watching the show, I caught up on the books. I loved the program and wish it had survived more than one year!

Fortunately, Jim Butcher has been giving wizard-for-hire Harry Dresden stories in comics as well as in the written word (and audiobooks). Dynamite has been working with Butcher to fill in some of the gaps in Harry’s previous escapades.

The latest foray into comics, Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files: Ghoul Goblin, issue #3 (of 6), is written by Jim Butcher and Mark Powers with pencils from Joseph Cooper and Ardian Syaf back for the covers.

Here’s the series’ description: “An original comic series set in the official Dresden Files continuity! Harry Dresden has survived the events of Fool Moon - barely – but all is not well in his world. He’s still alienated from his closest friend, Karrin Murphy, and on exceedingly poor terms with Chicago’s number one gangster, John Marcone. And that’s just the small stuff – the creatures of the Nevernever don’t take vacations and aren’t particularly worried about Harry’s friendships or love life.”

Since Mr. Butcher is involved, we get healthy doses of Harry’s self-deprecating humor as well as his pop culture awareness. The pacing is quick, and the art is strong and steady, fitting what’s happening to the characters (and monsters) in the book.

In Ghoul Goblin, Harry’s actually traveled out of Chicago (a rare thing) to help someone in need of his special abilities. Of course, things don’t go according to plan. This month, Harry continues his efforts to save a cursed and influential family to survive supernatural attacks that are thinning the herd pretty seriously! Who’s behind what’s going on? I have my suspicions, but you need to read the series to figure out what’s up for yourself!

Comics like these help fill the time between novel adventures. The latest release is Cold Days, and things are in a very different place there than in the comic, but Harry is the anchor that keeps us interested in everything that takes place, so it’s not difficult to land in difference places in Harry’s life and know just what’s happening.

BM_Cv18_standardIf you’ve considered getting into The Dresden Files, this comic might be a good place to give it a try. Some stores will likely still have the previous issues for sale. If you enjoy it, Fool Moon (the second novel) came out in comics adaptation. Or you can go to the novels and catch up that way!

For more information on other Dresden Files comics, go to dynamite.com.

This Week’s “New 52” Reviews: The death of Damian Wayne influences Batgirl #18, Batman #18 and Batman and Robin #18, all out this week. Deathstroke gets around, appearing in his own title as well as The Ravagers #10 and Team 7 #6, the latter two having both been canceled. Demon Knights has Jason Blood turning the tables on Etrigan. Katana #2 has the former assassin continuing her noble quest to restore the Outsiders to their former glory. Suicide Squad #18 shows the team discarding a battle cry that goes, “Suicide Squad, Assemble!” Green Lantern Corps #18 continues the “Wrath of the First Lantern” event. Superboy takes on a psychic adversary. Threshold #3 has renegade Green Lantern Jediah Caul fighting the Blue Beetle with Larfleeze’s back-up continuing to be great fun.

Also out this week worth buying are:

BOOM!

  • Garfield #11
  • Supurbia #5

DC

  • Batman: Arkham Unhinged #12
  • Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #6 of 6
  • Earth 2 HC Vol. 1 “The Gathering”
  • Green Lantern: The Animated Series #12 (Final issue)

Dynamite!

  • Bionic Man Annual #1
  • Dejah Thoris & The Green Men of Mars #2

IDW

  • Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror #2

Image

  • Hoax Hunters #8
  • Manhattan Projects #10
  • Walking Dead #108

Valiant

  • Archer and Armstrong #8
  • Bloodshot #9
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Wallpaper of the Day

Mar. 14 Features, Wallpaper no comments

 

Today’s wallpaper is courtesy of Wallbase

 

 

 

Download this wallpaper here

 

 

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Comics Portal: Batman’s The Zero Year Coming

Mar. 13 Comics Portal 2 comments

Batman, Robin, DC Comics, Bruce Wayne, New 52, Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo

No, it won’t replace Batman’s origin story. Instead, it will fill in the gaps of how Batman became the hero he is! It’s an 11-part story called “The Zero Year,” and it will begin in June.

On Monday, Scott Snyder told the Associated Press the following: “It’s time for a new story showing how Batman became who he is in the New 52.”

“It’s not ‘let’s redo the origin,’” he said. This decision was based on the success of the New 52 since it began a year and a half ago. Fans will see how the crime fighter found his calling and what challenges he faced when first donning the mantle of the Dark Knight.

“We tried to preserve as much of Batman’s history as we could and keep what we could of this history intact,” Snyder said of this event he’s creating with ongoing artist Greg Capullo. “It’s ‘The Zero Year,’ the one that no one has told the story of before. We see how Bruce became the Batman, built the cave, faced off with his first super villain.”

“We’re not going to take apart ‘Year One,’” Snyder said, referring to the Frank Miller/David Mazzucchelli four-issue tale. Instead Snyder, an Eagle Award-winning writer, will give readers new glimpses into the Bob Kane-created character who made his first appearance in the pages of Detective Comics #27 way back in May, 1939.

“It’s time for a new story showing how Batman became who he is in the New 52,” said Snyder. “It builds up the mythology.”

Of course, not everyone is happy to hear about this. Some feel that many of the New 52 stories have gone on too long, including the Court of Owls tale that took a year.  Also, others think this story shouldn’t interrupt the current tales being told in Batman.

But I think Mr. Snyder and Co. have known just how long a story will take, such as the Joker’s recent battle with Batman and family. So I’m willing to let the gang tell the stories they want to tell.

And as a long-time Batman fan, I couldn’t be happier! I’ll be ready for to June arrive and for “The Zero Year” to get underway!

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DC Comics And Beyond – Road to Oz #6 of 6

Mar. 07 DC Comics And Beyond, Reviews no comments

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, L. Frank Baum, Oz, Eric Shanower, Marvel, Age of Ultron, Skottie Young, Road to Oz

I’ve long said that I’m a fan of what I call Marvel’s “fringe” comics, and this week is a perfect example.

This time, I’m much happier diving into the conclusion to the Road to Oz miniseries than I am the first off of the “Age of Ultron” event. (I could list many comics I’ve previously read in which a villain takes over the world, like Mark Waid’s Empire or Geoff Johns’ JSA: Stealing Thunder, but they say the rapid turnover in comics means many comics fans won’t have read those great titles. Their loss.)

Here’s the description: “Time to party! When the celebration is for Ozma of Oz, you know it will be the most extravagant bash in all of fantasy literature … lots of food, lots of magic and a guest list that includes Santa Claus! Plus: the best way to go home? Magic bubbles, of course!”

Eric Shanower and Skottie Young have been translating L. Frank Baum’s Oz novels into comics for several years now, and they never fail to be enchanting (as well as telling me what I missed). I mean, nearly all of us have seen The Wizard of Oz motion picture, but beyond that? I know I didn’t go any further!

Many times the pacing in a book that focuses on children like Dorothy and her companions will be slow-moving. That’s not the case with Shanower’s scripts for these comics! And Young’s fanciful and breezy art fits the time period these stories first appeared in, as exemplified in the cover above.

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, L. Frank Baum, Oz, Eric Shanower, Marvel, Age of Ultron, Skottie Young, Road to OzWe see characters we’ve met previously in the Oz books, including the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Wizard, Billina the Hen, Tik-Tok the Clock-Work Man, Jack Pumpkin-Head and Mr. H.M. Woggle-Bug, among others. And we meet some folks I’d never seen before.

I happily buy monthly comics before waiting patiently for the hardcover version to come out so I can add it to my collection.

I hope this isn’t the last of the Oz comics. Baum crafted 14 in all, and this is only the fifth in the series. More, Marvel, more!

This Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Detective Comics #18 and World’s Finest #10 both spin out of Damian Wayne’s death last week in Batman Incorporated #8. Swamp Thing and Animal Man each conclude the “Rotworld” story. (This is Scott Snyder’s last issue on the first book.) Green Arrow #18 continues the great new direction started last month. Green Lantern has the next chapter of the “Wrath of the First Lantern” event. Earth 2 continues the origin of Dr. Fate in the “New 52!”  Batwing #18 has the hero trying to impose justice in a land that may not want it. Stormwatch has OMAC guest-starring. Superman #17 finally concludes the “H’El on Earth” event. The Phantom Stranger plays cards with several demons. Also, the new Dial H continues its odd ways. Good reading all!

Also out this week are:

DC

  • Ame Come Girls #1
  • Human Bomb #4
  • Insurgent #3
  • Legends of the Dark Knight #56
  • Smallville: Season 11 #11

BOOM!

  • Hypernaturals #9
  • Planet of the Apes: Cataclysm #7

Dynamite!

  • Kevin Smith’s Bionic Man #17
  • Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris #23

Image

  • Bedlam #5
  • Great Pacific #5

Valiant

  • Shadowman #5
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DC Comics And Beyond – Batman, Incorporated #8

Mar. 01 DC Comics And Beyond, Editor's Pick, Reviews 2 comments

DC Comics, New 52, Grant Morrison, Batman, Robin, Damien Wayne, Bruce Wayne, Rocketeer

If there’s one thing that Batman, Incorporated #8 tells us, it’s that death in comics still sells.

Here’s the comic’s description: “Everything Grant Morrison has been planning since the start of BATMAN, INCORPORATED leads to this stunning issue! You must not miss this one!”

This issue has received a lot of attention in the media the last several days. I understand a goodly number of comics shops, who of course didn’t know ahead of time this would be a landmark issue, sold out in the first few hours they were open on Wednesday.

So, what happens? Well, since newspapers and websites galore have covered it (and the cover above spoils it), I doubt many will be shocked to learn that Damian Wayne, the latest Robin, appears to be killed near the end of the issue.

Many fans will remember that the Joker murdered Jason Todd when he was Robin. Jason later came back from the dead to be the new Red Hood in Red Hood and the Outlaws.

Marvel has made boatloads of money off character deaths. Recently, Peter Parker died so Doctor Octopus could take over his body. (And now Peter’s a ghost “haunting” Ock. Good money says Peter will be back in his own body before Amazing Spider-Man 2 swings into theaters.) Also, the press went crazy when Captain America really died and was replaced by Bucky Barnes. (But, oh wait! It was all a big misunderstanding. Steve Rogers never died, just was knocked out and captured.) Anyway, you can probably see why I’m not excited by these kinds of events any longer.

Anyway, back to this issue. The “monster” that kills Damian is actually a much larger and stronger clone of him. Even the cocky, overconfident Robin can’t stop him.

The issue is a very fast-paced, quick read. It continues the story of Leviathan, an organization headed by Ra’s al Ghul’s daughter Talia, who’s Damian’s mother.

Those of us familiar with Morrison’s run might remember stories that circulated the Internet stating Morrison’s intention to kill the upstart Boy Wonder not long after the character was introduced several years back.

But something unexpected happened. Fans began to like Damian.

Guess Mr. Morrison finally gets to do what he wanted to make happen so long ago.

My biggest concern about all this is that, as many others on the Web like me are guessing, his death will be short-lived. After all, Ra’s has had something called the Lazarus Pit, which can bring one back from the dead. All it will take is one dip in that pool and Robin will be back to pester heroes and villains alike.

Another thing to remember is that there’s an ongoing monthly comic called Batman and Robin. What, are they going to change the title of the book to Batman and … ? Not very likely!

DC Comics, New 52, Grant Morrison, Batman, Robin, Damien Wayne, Bruce Wayne, RocketeerDon’t get me wrong. It’s a good chapter in a years-long story by Morrison and all. It’s just that I can’t take the deaths of characters seriously anymore. Oh, well. I’ll keep buying the book even after Morrison’s departure, which will take place before long. I am a Batman fan, after all!

This Week’s “New 52” Reviews:  Batman: The Dark Knight #17 continues a new tale about the Mad Hatter. Teen Titans deals with the aftermath of the “Death of the Family” event, with a very changed Red Robin returning to the team. Aquaman features an epilogue to the “Throne of Atlantis” event. Talon #5 has Calvin Rose being attacked by the Gotham Butcher. The Flash #17 has the finale to the “Gorilla Warfare” storyline with Gorilla Grodd. The Savage Hawkman  shows the hero battling one of the best in his rogue’s gallery, the Shadow Thief! The members of the Justice League Dark find themselves in a dimension where magic has been outlawed. The Fury Of Firestorm #17 has the aforementioned Teen Titans as guest stars. All-Star Western shows the secret history of Jonah Hex! Red Lanterns #17 continues the “Wrath of the First Lantern.” I, Vampire has Cain and Mary getting a little too close for comfort as the plan to rescue Andrew Bennett nears its end. Fun reads all!

Also out this week are:

BOOM!

  • Deathmatch #3
  • Freelancers #4
  • Peanuts Vol. 2 #6
  • Steed and Mrs. Peel Ongoing #5

DC

  • Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan #4
  • Injustice: Gods Among Us #2

Dynamite!

  • Warlord of Mars #23

IDW

  • Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror #1
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DC Comics And Beyond – Justice League of America #1

Feb. 21 Comic Books, DC Comics And Beyond, Reviews no comments

JLA1cover

Okay, I didn’t buy all those covers, but I did enjoy another jewel in the “Justice League” crown at DC!

Here’s the description for Justice League of America #1: “The march toward TRINITY WAR begins with part one of ‘WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS!’ Green Lantern! Green Arrow! Catwoman! Katana! Vibe! Hawkman! Stargirl! They aren’t the world’s greatest super heroes—they’re the most dangerous! But why does a team like the JLA need to exist? What is their ultimate mission? And who is pulling the strings? Plus: Find out why Martian Manhunter is the most dangerous of them all. Period.”

Mentioned in this week’s 5 Comics not to Miss column, this book adds a new focus to the already successful Justice League and Justice League Dark titles. (Can there be a huge crossover in all three books far away?)

Geoff Johns does his usual superlative job of setting up what’s happening, and David Finch’s art is strong and powerful, working well with the script.

There are a couple of characters in the book that I’ve long liked, including Hawkman, Green Arrow, Green Lantern (Simon Baz), and Stargirl. Mr. Johns has already worked wonders with three of the four, so it’s nice to see him telling stories with them again. And the Martian Manhunter deserves to be back in a League, so I’m happy to see that!

How is Justice League of America different from the other Leagues? Well, this group is intended to be a more “public” team, unlike the others, who have their own, more private ways of doing things. Steve Trevor is involved, and people keep flaunting Superman’s new relationship with Wonder Woman in his face, which is something interesting to see. How long can he stand people doing that to him?

Also, Katana and Hawkman are clearly identified as killers, but ones who can be useful to the team. How can that take place? I have to see how they do that!

The member that gives me pause is Vibe. I understand the desire to have a diverse group, but I still cringe when I see his “superhero shorts” on DC Nation. I’m anxious to pick up his special, which was sold out at the store I visited.

Still, Justice League of America is off to a dynamic start.

NTW_Cv17This Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Justice League #17 features the conclusion to the “Throne of Atlantis” event. Nightwing and Red Hood and the Outlaws show us the aftermath to the “Death of the Family.” Batwoman’s team up with Wonder Woman concludes this time. Wonder Woman’s regular comic has the amazon, War and Orion joining forces to save Zola’s baby from Hermes. Green Lantern, Green Lantern Corps and Green Lantern: New Guardians begin the “Wrath of the First Lantern” event. Catwoman starts a new crime spree. Birds of Prey has the team adding its first male member. Action Comics #17 has one of the last Grant Morrison stories. Next, I enjoyed DC Universe, which features a story about Arsenal. This book has been cancelled, so only a few more issues to go. Legion of Super-Heroes features the Fatal Five. Supergirl #17 provides more of the “H’El on Earth” story but doesn’t conclude it. Sword of Sorcery #5 also approaches its abrupt demise. Justice League of America’s Vibe #1 is co-written by Geoff Johns, so that’s good news!

Also out this week are:

DC

  • Batman Beyond Unlimited #13
  • JSA Liberty Files: The Whistling Skull #3
  • Young Justice #25

Dynamite!

  • Bionic Woman #8
  • Lord of the Jungle #13
  • The Spider #9

IDW

  • Jericho Season 4 #2
  • Locke & Key Omega #3
  • Star Trek: Countdown to Darkness #2
  • Star Trek Ongoing #18

Image

  • Happy #4
  • Thief of Thieves #12

Oni Press

  • Sixth Gun #29
  • Sixth Gun: Sons of the Gun #1

Marvel

  • Captain America #4
  • Daredevil  #23
  • Indestructible Hulk #4

Valiant

  • Harbinger #9
  • X-O Manowar #10
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5 Comics Not to Miss This Week

Feb. 20 5 Comics Not to Miss This Week, Comic Books, Editor's Pick, News, Previews 1 comment

The Avengers go sci-fi, the Justice League expands its ranks, and Wonder Woman’s Shakespearean family drama keeps on trucking in this week’s 5 Comics Not to Miss!

 

dec120632AVENGERS #6

Jonathan Hickman’s interesting sci-fi take on Marvel’s Mightiest superteam continues. So far, his plots seem to be as much about science fiction concepts as they are about superheroes fighting supervillains, which is a unique tone for the Avengers. This week’s issue promises an exploration of the Captain Universe origin, which should be interesting under Hickman’s pen, as he seems poised to give an often underutilized, minor Marvel character an upgrade in relevance.

dec120174JUSTICE LEAGUE #17

The conclusion to the entertaining “Throne of Atlantis” storyline comes this week. Geoff Johns’ writing on the series has really taken off with this latest tale as he simultaneously reinvigorates Aquaman’s underwater world while he puts the League in the middle of a stunning adventure that changes the dynamic of the team and expands it as well. The Atlantis-surface conflict has prompted the government to grow the League’s ranks, which leads into this week’s debut issue of the new Justice League of America #1 spin-off.

dec120189JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #1

This is it! The much-anticipated expansion of the Justice League, the Justice League of America. This book comes as a direct result of “Throne of Atlantis,” and the friction between this new team and the other Justice League is probably what starts the also much-anticipated “Trinity War” storyline, the New 52′s first big crossover event. This new Justice League stars Wonder Woman’s spurned ex-lover Steve Trevor and the Martian Manhunter, a character who, in the relaunch, has fought against the League in the past. It’s probably safe to say that the two Leagues won’t be friends initially, and the drama will probably make for great storytelling.

dec120240JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA’S VIBE #1

Yes, I put a Vibe comic in here, dammit! Can the New 52 version of this often misunderstood character from the Justice League’s vastly underrated Detroit era (yeah, I said that too, and meant it) pick up enough readers to keep his own solo series going? We’ll see. The DC Universe’s creative architects, including the extremely talented Geoff Johns, have rebooted Vibe from a 1980s breakdancing stereotype (although a likeable 1980s breakdancing stereotype) and are attempting to make him more modern and relevant for today’s audience. His vibrational powers are supposedly linked to the frequencies between dimensions (think Earth 1 and Earth 2 and all those others). Let’s see if Vibe 2.0 can take off in ways Vibe 1.0 never did.

dec120244WONDER WOMAN #17

Wonder Woman’s been a consistently good read, thanks to Brian Azzarello’s writing and Cliff Chiang’s and Tony Akins’s art. Issue #17 continues the series’ second story arc, which brings the popular New God Orion to the New 52 DC Universe just in time to mix it up with the Greek gods and all of this epic lost-child-prophecy type stuff that’s been going on in Wonder Woman’s book over the past several months. Check out this title is you’re looking for Shakespearean family drama with some cosmic, otherworldly stuff thrown in.

Do you disagree with any of our choices? Did something from your pull-list not make it here? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

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DC Comics And Beyond – Batman #17

Feb. 14 Comic Books, DC Comics And Beyond, Reviews no comments

DC Comics, Theshold, Wayne Hall, Batman, New 52, Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Jediah Caul, Green Lantern, Joker

“I HATE nothing more on this Earth than you, Joker. NOTHING.”

Here’s the description for Batman #17: “This is it: The stunning conclusion to ‘DEATH OF THE FAMILY!’ Who lives? Who dies? Who laughs last? Find out as Batman and The Joker face off one last time!”

The initial paragraph is a direct quote from the Dark Knight as he discovers just what the Clown Prince of Crime has been saving for him in this issue. It takes a lot for Batman to react that way, and the Joker has accomplished it in spades!

First up, some broad strokes from me. “Death of the Family” will be the gold standard by which all other Joker stories will be measured. I’ve always felt that the Joker’s appearances should mean something, be something important when they happen. Too often, he’s shown up just to be silly or stupid and to sell more issues than the average Batman family comic. This story kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last panel, and even then has me wondering what might happen next.

Scott Snyder’s script is fast-moving and shocking, making us think certain actions have taken place. If you think you know what’s going on, just wait until you turn the page! There are stunning developments on nearly every page of this last chapter of “Death of the Family,” appropriately titled, “The Punchline.”

Greg Capullo’s art matches the script, at times revealing just what’s going on instead of using word balloons. I love that! And the cover (which you can see above) is creepy to the max, with the Joker dancing with a blood-stained Bat-costume.

This story, like the “Night of the Owls” hardcover that also came out today, needs to be collected into a big volume as well! Wow!

If you don’t want to be spoiled, now’s the time to bail out!

Several sequences simply took my breath away, including:

  • The “first course” showing the faces of Batman’s allies after we saw their heads wrapped in bandages. I could see the Joker doing that to them as he did to himself! And the resolution to that portion of the book also had me gasping.
  • Alfred appearing in Joker-like pale skin. On some levels, I was reminded of when he became The Outsider back in the 1960s.
  • The Bat-family attacking each other, with Alfred coming to their rescue.
  • Batman taunting the Joker, trying to whisper the Clown Prince of Crime’s real identity into his ear, calling him “Darling,” something the Joker has called Batman many times in the past. Chilling!
  • The explanation for why Batman wasn’t worried about the Joker knowing his secret identity.
  • The family needing time apart to recover from whatever it was Joker told them.
  • Finally, the name and element symbol for the isotope Joker used on the family. And the fly inside the Batcave. I still get chills thinking about that!

Really, if there was a way to give this a higher grade, I would, but the best I can do is:

Rating: 5 out of 5.

I simply can’t wait for more from Batman’s newest dynamic duo, Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo!

DC Comics, Theshold, Wayne Hall, Batman, New 52, Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Jediah Caul, Green Lantern, JokerThis Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Batgirl #17 shows the character’s role in the DCU after the “Death of the Family” event. Batman and Robin features the duo having to protect Gotham City in the week leading up to the 300th anniversary of the city’s founding. Demon Knights shows Vandal Savage trying to rescue Jason Blood. Katana #1 has the former assassin on a noble quest to restore the Outsiders to their former glory. Superboy continues the “H’el on Earth” event. Threshold #2 has renegade Green Lantern Jediah Caul fighting the Blue Beetle. Deathstroke is hired by a corporation to track down an attacker. Suicide Squad has a dangerous surprise from Yo-Yo’s past awaiting the Squad. Team 7 shows the secret history of the original Cyborg program. The Ravagers #9 has the team wondering if Caitlin is helping Thunder or killing him.

Also out this week worth buying are:

Archaia

  • Mouse Guard: The Black Axe #6 of 6

BOOM!

  • Garfield #10
  • Planet of the Apes Special #1
  • Supurbia #4

DC

  • Ame Comi Girls #5 (featuring Supergirl)
  • Batman: Arkham Unhinged #11
  • Before Watchmen: Comedian #5
  • Green Lantern: The Animated Series #11

Dynamite!

  • Bionic Man Vs. Bionic Woman #2
  • Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files: Ghoul Goblin #2
  • Kevin Smith’s Bionic Man #16
  • Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris #22

Image

  • Fatale #12
  • Hoax Hunters #7
  • Manhattan Projects #9
  • Morning Glories #24
  • Walking Dead #107
  • Walking Dead: The Governor #1

Valiant

  • Archer and Armstrong #7
  • Bloodshot #8
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DC Comics And Beyond – Flee GN

Feb. 07 DC Comics And Beyond, Editor's Pick, Reviews no comments

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, Flee, Raphael Moran, Dream Reavers, Valentine's Special, Earth 2, If it seems I’m a big fan of Raphael Moran’s work, it’s because I am! He and the folks he works with always deliver something creative and fresh when it comes to comics stories. Previously, he created Dream Reavers, a great series you should already have read. (Shame on you if you haven’t done that.)

Now he’s got a new graphic novel out called Flee, and you should be reading it as well!

Here’s the description: “Bug Exterminator Rigby Pinkerton is one of the biggest losers in the world. His ex-wife left him penniless, and now he’s stuck at home living with his plastic surgery-obsessed Mom. His life suddenly gets more complicated when he unwillingly gets caught in a intergalactic war that literally crash lands into his backyard. He’s the only one that can stop a deadly alien swarm and help a lone alien hero save the universe. Too bad Rigby has better things to do… like fawning over the hot new single mother that moved in next door. It’s a sci-fi alien invasion comedy unlike anything you’ll see. It features artwork from Ed Waston, Marc Borstel and Atul Bakshi. E T Dollman is doing the lettering. It’s all from the mind of artist/writer Raphael Moran.”

Flee contains two storylines that just couldn’t be more different. The space tale is very powerful sci-fi, full of interesting alien races and artifacts upon which the fate of many relies. On the other hand, Rigby’s experience is much more focused on interpersonal conflicts and everyday life on Earth.

The person I was most entertained by was Rigby’s mom, who is unlike any mother I’ve ever seen in comics. She’s sassy, funny and quirky, the perfect foil for her more standard son. Rigby’s best line is, “Prepare to be exterminated,” something a person in his line of work might say! Then, too, new neighbor Rita is everything Rigby would want in a woman… even though he’s not certain he’ll ever be able to win her over.

Even his dog Mensa (his name made me smile!) has some great bits in the story as he gets involved in the invasion. Both fun and funny stuff!

If you are ready for an enjoyable read that is both way out in outer space and down to earth, pick up Flee. You won’t be disappointed, believe me!

If you can’t get it through your local comics shop, you can go to Amazon and buy it!

Don’t forget to follow Flee at http://www.facebook.com/fleecomics and on Twitter @raphaelmoran. (And by the way, the title of this graphic novel could also have been spelled Flea, in my opinion! But it works both ways!)

To listen to my interviews with Raph during my Wayne’s Comics podcast, you can listen to the first one here and the second one at this location!

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, Jeff Lemire, Green Arrow, Detective Comics, Valentine's Special, Earth 2, Oliver QueenThis Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Green Arrow #17 is a terrific jumping-on point for fans of the Emerald Archer! Wow! Detective Comics #17 has Batman tracking down the League of Smiles, a criminal group of psychotic killers that worships the Joker. Earth 2 premieres Dr. Fate for the first time in the “New 52!” Swamp Thing and Animal Man each continue the “Rotworld” story. (Be sure to read Animal Man first, though.) World’s Finest #9 is another great outing from Paul Levitz, this time with both Phil Jimenez and George Perez, among others. Batwing #17 has the hero trying to impose justice in a land that may not want it. Stormwatch sees their headquarters get destroyed. The Phantom Stranger meets the Spectre. Also, the new Dial H continues its odd ways. Just in time for the holiday comes Young Romance: A New 52 Valentine’s Day Special #1, featuring stories with Superman/Wonder Woman, Batman/Catwoman, Nightwing, Apollo/Midnighter, Aquaman/Mera and Batgirl. Oh, and you get DC Valentines you can give away if you want! Good reading all!

Also out this week are:

DC

  • Human Bomb #3
  • Insurgent #2
  • Legends of the Dark Knight #5
  • Smallville: Season 11 #10

BOOM!

  • Hypernaturals #8
  • Planet of the Apes: Cataclysm #6

Dynamite!

  • Green Hornet #33

Image

  • Great Pacific #4
  • Perhapanauts: Danger Down Under #4
  • Super Dinosaur #17

Marvel

  • All New X-Men #7
  • Hit-Girl #5
  • Road to Oz #5

Valiant

  • Harbinger #0
  • Shadowman #4
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Green Arrow #17 Review: Arrows of Outrageous Fortune

Feb. 06 Comic Books, Reviews no comments

Publisher: DC Comics
Writer Jeff Lemire
Artist: Andrea Sorrentino
Release Date: Feb. 6, 2013

 

Well, after a busy end to the fall semester and a busier-than-average break, I’m back to give you my 2 cents on an issue, good or bad. This week, I take aim (pun INCREDIBLY intended) at DC’s Emerald Archer, Green Arrow. With his new creative team of Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentio fresh off of Animal Man  and I, Vampire respectively, this is the third creative team for Oliver Queen since the reboot. With Arrow being a critical and commercial hit on TV, interest in Ollie has been on the rise, and of course fans of the show might head towards the source material.

Green Arrow #17  begins on a somber note. Ollie is alone in what seems to be the Australian Outback without his trademark bow and arrows, and his uniform has been reduced to his hood. He seems to be at an all time low and thinks of himself as a failure whose entire life is a lie. His becoming Green Arrow, a game. And being alone, all he wants to do is DIE alone.

Why? In flashbacks, we find out that three weeks beforehand, someone bought out Queen Industries and Q-Core, and Ollie wants an explanation from Emerson, a man who has been bashing Ollie this entire time at every possible opportunity. It turns out that Emerson’s actually been trying to look out for Ollie and because of that Queen Industries has fallen into malicious hands. Emerson begins to reveal that he was trying to prepare Ollie for a special destiny, a true birthright. But of course, in true film noir fashion, an arrow permanently silences Emerson, and a second pulls him out the window, framing Ollie for murder.

This is where Ollie’s life starts its downward spiral. When he tries to get help from his associates, he finds that they are compromised. An explosion at Q-Core forces him to go to a safe house and get his gear. Of course, he’s attacked there by our mystery archer, a man calling himself Komodo; and he knows Ollie’s secret. He also has Ollie’s trick arrows, which he uses on Green Arrow to great advantage. Komodo also talks about Ollie’s supposed destiny. The final showdown, which includes another new face, gives us more questions than answers. Like any good story, it leaves you wanting more.

Lemire gives us a noir style story wrapped up in superhero clothing. We get mysteries, people framed for crimes they didn’t commit, explosions, assassins, and more questions that will only be partly solved next time. In contrast to the book’s previous writer, Ann Nocenti, who wrote Ollie like a 20-something James Bond, Lemire wants to take Ollie down the path to a mature hero.

The artwork by Sorrentio looks a bit like live action rotoscopted into a comic book, which is interesting. Keeping with only a few colors, it seems to set up the story’s darkness. It’s stunning while being simple. Sorrentio also uses the perspective of both Green Arrow and Komodo to add to the drama and the tension. Small squares within panels show us the little things Ollie is notices and shows his thought process as he takes advantage of what he has and figures out what to do (it’s easier to see than explain). It shows that Ollie has a tactical mind, reinforced when he refers to two security guards coming to arrest him as targets rather than people. However, it feels like they looked at the House That Stan Built (aka Marvel) and cribbed some ideas from the cover to Hawkeye.

Of course the big mystery of the day is “Who is Komodo?” He’s set up to be the big villain, or the major enforcer for whoever is pulling the strings.

Who is our likely baddie? My money is on Tommy Merlyn. Seen on the picture on the right next to Ollie (taken from Green Arrow #0), Tommy was hired as Ollie’s archery teacher and was his friend. Of course, when all hell broke loose, Tommy was badly injured and blamed his injuries and the deaths of those around him on Ollie. At the end of the issue, Talia Al Ghul finds Tommy, and the issue hints that his own training will begin soon. Given the popularity of the character on Arrow, it wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to think this is our introduction to the New 52 Merlyn. Only time, and Lemire, will tell. Until then, we, like the readers of a pulp novel, are sitting on the edge of our seat.

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Comics Portal: DC Hopes Fans Will Ask, “WTF?”

Feb. 05 Comic Books, Comics Portal, Editor's Pick no comments

DC Comics, WTF?, Nightwing, Talon, Batman, Creeper, Steve Ditko, Booster Gold,

Any comics reader today knows that events are big business. A publisher like Marvel and/or DC will have up to four of these going at any time. Why? Because they sell!

For example, at DC we’re currently seeing “Death of the Family” and “Throne of Atlantis.” At Marvel, “Age of Ultron” is about to kick off.

I’m not a huge fan of such things. I prefer to plunk down my money on a great monthly title instead of having to track down all the pieces/parts in “events,” but some of them are surely worth the buying.

Recently, DC has announced that April will be “WTF Certified.” Since I prefer family-oriented language, I’ll define WTF as “What the frell,” à la Farscape. DC has said that the “New 52″ issues during April will “leave readers in a state of shock.” In other words, there will be big surprises ahead.

If you don’t like hints or spoilers, don’t venture any further! If you’re still around, here are some of the hints that have been sent our way as to what will go on then:

  • Booster Gold reappears while an entire team disappears
  • One team is trapped in a bottle while another is changed completely
  • Some heroes change their colors and others change allegiances
  • Pandora battles to the death
  • A close encounter of the Dark Knight kind
  • There’s a new, old Creeper and some old New Gods
  • One hero quits, and another hero dies

Solicitations for April make it pretty easy for me to guess some of these. Time-travelling Booster Gold will meet Jonah Hex in All-Star Western, if the cover is any indication. Orion from the New Gods has already begun appearing in Wonder Woman, so it’s likely where the rest will appear.

DC Comics, WTF?, Nightwing, Talon, Batman, Creeper, Steve Ditko, Booster Gold, Trapping a team in a bottle sounds like the city of Kandor, so Superman must be involved somehow. Batwing apparently hangs up his ears as well. Sounds like Stormwatch will be the group to disappear into another dimension, while it seems the Steve Ditko creation the Creeper will appear in Nightwing, who is surrounded by laughter – a trademark of the character (see the cover above).

Regarding the close encounter of the Dark Knight kind, I’d have to put my money on Batman appearing in Talon. When I interviewed James Tynion IV during a recent episode of my Wayne’s Comics podcast, he mentioned that the Dark Knight just might get wind of a talon running around without his approval. Sounds like a great confrontation to me, if it’s true!

Will ALL fans go WTF? to every “surprise?” It’s doubtful, but DC’s had their share of success with the number one and zero issues as well as their smaller events. I’ll be anxious to see what kinds of curveballs the creators want to throw our way. And hey, who knows what DC has in mind for the second anniversary of the début of the “New 52″ in September?

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DC Comics And Beyond – Batman and Robin Annual #1

Jan. 31 DC Comics And Beyond, Reviews no comments

DC Comics, New 52, Scott Snyder, Batman, Talon, Court of Owls, James T. Tynion IV, Peter J. Tomasi, Dark Knight, Robin, Damien Wayne, Bruce Wayne

This week was DC-intensive for me, but the book that stood out for me, a long-time fan of the Dark Knight, was the first Batman and Robin annual.

Here’s the comic’s description: “Robin leads Batman on an unrelenting hunt across the globe for family secrets that promise to change them both forever. If you think you know Bruce Wayne … think again!”

I’ve read stories about Batman and the various Robins for years. It’s really rare when a story tells me things about my favorite hero that I don’t know.

This comic does that, in spades!

Damien proves his detective skills by showing his father elements of the Wayne family’s past that Bruce has either forgotten or never knew. He also understands his father enough to know that it won’t do to simply show what’s been discovered. He has to lead his “dad” on a merry chase around the globe to make them worth something.

This is the very first appearance of Damien where I actually believed he truly is Bruce’s son. What Damien has in store for Bruce, and us as well, adds a lot of interesting facts to the Wayne family history. It reminds me a lot of the Gates of Gotham miniseries in that there’s still a lot of mythology around Gotham and the Waynes that has yet to be told.

Peter J. Tomasi has crafted a powerful, dynamic story that features Damien wearing a Gotham by Gaslight-style costume, another fascinating thing for those of us who are long-time fans to enjoy.

Ardian Syaf’s art matches the tale with powerful, clear graphics that propel us along quickly.

Everything wraps up with a wonderful Alfred moment that made me laugh! Nicely done!

I hope all the “New 52″ annuals are as good as this one! Wow!

Rating: 5 out of 5

This Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Batman: The Dark Knight #16 introduces new artist Ethan Van Sciver, who joins Gregg Hurwitz in a tale about the Mad Hatter. I also really enjoyed The Flash, in which the Scarlet Speedster fights Gorilla Grodd with the help of the Rogues. Teen Titans continues the “Death of the Family” event, squaring Red Robin off against the Red Hood. Aquaman takes us deeper inside the “Throne of Atlantis” event. Talon #4 has Calvin Rose trying to survive an attack by the Gotham Butcher. Next, I enjoyed Superman #16, which draws us closer to the end of the “H’El on Earth” story. Green Lantern Corps Annual #1 concludes the “Rise of the Third Army,” and also leads into the “Wrath of the First Lantern.” The Savage Hawkman  shows Hawkman wrapping up his battle with Shayera! Justice League Dark has the team back on their heels, and Deadman back as a ghost again. The Fury Of Firestorm #16 has more greatness from Dan Jurgens. Batman, Inc., continues Talia’s all-out war on Batman. All-Star Western shows Jonah Hex being driven mad as he recuperates at Dr. Arkham’s house, where he meets more of the Arkham family than anyone would ever want to! Red Lanterns #16 sees a significant change happen to the Manhunters. I, Vampire reveals the true origin of vampires in “The New 52″ through the life and times of Cain!

Also out this week are:

DC

  • Batman Beyond Unlimited #12
  • Before Watchmen: Dollar Bill #1
  • Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #5
  • Injustice: Gods Among Us #1

BOOM!

  • Deathmatch #2

Dynamite!

  • Green Hornet #33

Image

  • Invincible #100

Oni Press

  • Sixth Gun #28
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DC Comics And Beyond – Stumptown Vol. 2, #5 of 5

Jan. 24 DC Comics And Beyond, Reviews no comments

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, Star Trek, Stumptown, Greg Rucka, Justice League, Batman, Oni Press

If you’ve been reading my columns or listening to my podcasts, you know that there are certain writers and artists I follow religiously! This week, one of my favorite writers wraps up his latest miniseries from Oni Press.

Here’s the description for Stumptown Vol. 2, #5 of 5: “The conclusion of Eisner Award-winning writer Greg Rucka’s and acclaimed artist Matthew Southworth’s latest STUMPTOWN mystery! Stupid skinheads, angry DEA agents, and extremely irritated Portland Police are all focused on ‘Baby’ — rock star Mim Bracca’s most precious guitar! Can Dex navigate the politics, egos, and attitude to get the axe back without producing even more tabloid fodder?”

I’m a huge fan of mysteries and crime drama. Greg Rucka has penned some of my favorite comics in the past several years, including Gotham Central, a DC Comics book I still miss.

About three years ago, Rucka began Stumptown, which is described this way: “This four-issue American comic-book limited series launched on November 4, 2009. This comic book is a modern-day detective fiction series based in Portland, Oregon, featuring Dex Parios, a female private investigator with a gambling problem. It takes place in the same continuity as Rucka’s novel Fistful of Rain and Atticus Kodiak novels (by the virtue of sharing minor characters). A second volume began in September 2012 and ran for five issues.”

Southworth’s art completely fits the tone of the story, so I’m thrilled that he ‘s been able to work on both miniseries. I hope that he can do so again when (I truly hope it’s NOT “if”) we get more Stumptown.

This time in “The Case of the Baby in the Velvet Case,” it’s been a lot of fun for Dex to venture into the music world in Portland. Rucka has made me both laugh out loud and worry about whether the folks in this book will survive to see another day. And making a guitar the focus of the tale has lead to a lot of wonderful moments, not the least of which included finding out that “Baby” IS a guitar.

For most readers, last issue seemed like the conclusion to the story. But Mr. Rucka had a lot left to share, so we thankfully received this fifth issue, which has its own twists and turns.

One sequence made me call out, “Oh no!” when I read it. It has to do with Dex’s “new” car, but I simply can’t spoil it here! It’s got to be read to be properly enjoyed!

DC Comics, New 52, Wayne Hall, Star Trek, Stumptown, Greg Rucka, Justice League, Batman, Oni PressSo, Mr. Rucka and Mr. Southworth, when can we visit Stumptown again? Soon, I hope!

Rating: 5 out of 5!

This Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Justice League #16 features the next chapter in the “Throne of Atlantis” event. Nightwing and Red Hood and the Outlaws continue their participation in “Death of the Family.” Batwoman has some of the best art in comics today, and it’s so good that ads are forced to appear in the back of the book. Wonder Woman guest stars in Batwoman, but the amazon’s own comic continues her recent story in an interesting way. Green Lantern, Green Lantern Corps and Green Lantern: New Guardians bring us closer to the conclusion of the Third Army storyline. Catwoman wraps up her clash with Eclipso in the “New 52.” Birds of Prey has the team adding its first male member. Next, I enjoyed DC Universe, which concluded a “black and blue” story, teaming Black Lightning and Blue Devil. This book has been cancelled, so only a few more issues to go. Legion of Super-Heroes features the teens taking on Validus … or do they? Supergirl #16 and Superboy Annual #1 provides more of the “H’El on Earth” story but doesn’t conclude it. Constantine appears in Sword of Sorcery #4. Sadly, the last issue of Blue Beetle has arrived, but that character’s tale will continue in Threshold in the near future.

Also out this week are:

DC

  • Before Watchmen: Minutemen #6 of 6
  • JSA Liberty Files: The Whistling Skull #2
  • Young Justice #24

BOOM!

  • Peanuts Vol. 2, #5
  • Steed and Mrs. Peel Ongoing #4

Dynamite!

  • Bionic Woman #7
  • Lord of the Jungle #12
  • Masks #3
  • The Spider #8

IDW

  • Star Trek: Countdown to Darkness #1

Image

  • Chew #31

Valiant

  • Harbinger #8
  • X-O Manowar #9
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Comics Portal: Will Comics be Censored?

Jan. 23 Comics Portal 1 comment

DC Comics, New 52, Catwoman, gun control, Washington, Seduction of the Innocent, Comics Code Authority

Several gun-related mass killings have the U.S. government considering stricter gun control laws, but many people blame violent video games and believe that the gaming industry desensitizes players to real-life mass murder with actual firearms.

Some cities and states have already introduced legislation to tax these games in an attempt to make them less available to children and teens. People on both sides of this issue have strong opinions about whether this deterrent will be effective.

Can censoring of comics be far behind?

Before you laugh at this notion and say, “They’ll NEVER do that!” it’s already happened once in the history of comics in America.

There was a time when all comics had to bear the seal of approval from the Comics Code Authority (CCA), an organization set up to ensure the book was okay for children to read, as noted here. (This began in the 1950′s, when children were the largest block of comics readers.)

This code banned graphic depictions of violence and gore in crime and horror comics as well as sexual innuendo. Fredric Wertham‘s 1954 book Seduction of the Innocent was considered the catalyst for the outrage felt by parents across the country. The code was an attempt to prevent government intervention and censorship.

DC Comics, New 52, Catwoman, gun control, Washington, Seduction of the Innocent, Comics Code AuthoritySpecific restrictions were placed on the portrayal of kidnapping and concealed weapons. Depictions of “excessive violence” were forbidden, as were “lurid, unsavory, gruesome illustrations.” Vampires, werewolves, ghouls and zombies could not be portrayed. In addition, comics could not use the words “horror” or “terror” in their titles. The use of the word “crime” was subject to numerous restrictions. Depictions of “sex perversion,” “sexual abnormalities” and “illicit sex relations,” as well as seduction, rape, sadism and masochism were specifically forbidden. Instead, more “wholesome” images, including the sanctity of marriage and resolving conflicts in ways besides violence, were required.

It took several decades, but eventually the market changed, and the Comics Code Authority lost its influence. By the early 2000s, newer publishers bypassed the CCA, and Marvel abandoned it in 2001. By 2010, only three major publishers still followed their rules: DC Comics, Archie Comics and Bongo Comics. Bongo broke with the CCA in 2010. DC and Archie followed in January 2011. Today, adults consume the vast majority of comics, and stores try to separate books for kids from those for adults, but it doesn’t take much imagination to see that once video games are cowed, movies, TV and comics are likely not far behind.

I’m reminded of a recent Washington, DC, Fox TV report on DC’s “New 52″ in which the reporter went after the Catwoman comic specifically for being sexually graphic. She actually took a copy of the book and stood across the street from a local school, showing it to pre-teens who would talk with her. (Of course, this took place months after the book had been released. Also, I’m sure she was far from the school because they wouldn’t allow her to do this inside their walls.)

The report is no longer available online, but you can check out the commercial for it here:

Sound familiar? It should!

Am I jumping the gun here, so to speak? Are comics in the sights of lawmakers in the States? Not yet! Of course, things aren’t the same as they were during the Comics Code Authority’s heyday, but personally I can see some handwriting on the wall. I hope I’m wrong, but I wouldn’t be at all surprised if you start seeing reports of how bad comics are on your local television screen before long.

We may want to enjoy the freedom of reading today’s comics as long as we can, in my opinion!

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DC Comics And Beyond – Threshold #1

Jan. 18 DC Comics And Beyond, Editor's Pick no comments

DC Comics, Theshold, Wayne Hall, Larfleeze, Batman, New 52, Keith Giffen, Jediah Caul, Green Lantern

I could rave on and on about Batman, but instead I thought I would talk about one of the new ongoing books in DC’s “New 52.”

Here’s the description for Threshold #1: “The disgraced Green Lantern Jediah Caul has been stripped of his power ring, but even worse, he’s being hunted for sport on a televised reality show. Plus, Larfleeze steals the spotlight in his first series of backup stories! What happens when Larfleeze, the ultimate hoarder, is robbed … of everything!”

This title is a serious attempt to give more of the DCU’s space-faring characters a chance to shine. I’m as big a sci-fi fan as I am a fan of Keith Giffen’s writing, so I enjoyed this comic a lot. Of the two stories, though, I loved the back-up with Larfleeze, the Orange Lantern of Avarice, most.

Larfleeze reminds me of myself and my fellow collectors. He can never have enough, and he never keeps anything he collects safe very long!

This time, Larfleeze creates a book about his own history before he’s summoned away, only to return and discover that the worst possible thing has happened to him! But I doubt it’ll take him TOO long to find his lost possessions. We also learn some interesting tidbits about him when he dictates his personal story in the issue.

The first story, with Jediah Caul was good but not great. It’s the latest in a line of concepts in comics that try to combine The Hunger Games and reality TV into an action/adventure storyline. There’s Giffen’s usually fun dialogue, and the art by Tom Raney fits the tale quite well.

DC Comics, Theshold, Wayne Hall, Larfleeze, Batman, New 52, Keith Giffen, Jediah Caul, Green Lantern It’s always tough to judge a book by its first issue, and it may take a couple more months for me to warm up to this tale, but Larfleeze stole the show. Still, I think it’s well worth $3.99!

This Week’s “New 52” Reviews: Batman #16 continues the epic “Death of the Family” event, as do Batgirl and Batman and Robin. This week, we say “goodbye” to three comics I’ve enjoyed reading: Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E, Legion Lost and Grifter. Demon Knights shows what has happened to the team after they’ve been separated for 30 years! Superboy continues the “H’el on Earth” event. Deathstroke has Slade’s son Jericho attacking. Suicide Squad shows the group resetting under Amanda Waller’s watch. Team 7 features the secret origin of Deathstroke! The Ravagers #8 has Rose Wilson and Warblade hunting a rogue Ravager when it accidentally infects an entire community.

Also out this week are:

BOOM!

  • Freelancers #3

DC

  • Batman: Arkham Unhinged #10
  • Green Lantern: The Animated Series #10
  • Insurgent #1

Dynamite!

  • Bionic Man Vs. Bionic Woman #1
  • Green Hornet Year One Special #1
  • Kevin Smith’s Bionic Man #15
  • Lord of the Jungle #11
  • Warlord of Mars: Dejah Thoris #21

Image

  • Hoax Hunters #6

Marvel

  • Daredevil #22
  • Indestructible Hulk #3

Valiant

  • Archer and Armstrong #6
  • Bloodshot #7
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Comics Portal: Me and my ‘Arrow’

Jan. 15 Comics Portal no comments

DC Comics, New 52, Justice League, Arrow, Green Arrow, Stephen Amell, Neal Adams, Denny O'Neil, Batman

Green Arrow (GA) is enjoying something of a renaissance these days!

While his new comic has changed hands pretty consistently, the new CW series Arrow has been doing well on television, garnering good-sized audiences and a strong fan base. I particularly enjoyed the recent discussion on the show that instead of being called “the Hood,” the vigilante should get a better name. “How about Green Arrow?” said John Barrowman’s character. “Lame!” responded Stephen Amell, who plays the titular character. Nice inside joke. If you aren’t a comics fan, you probably don’t care about lines like that, but if you are, it’s a fun bonus!

Based on the success of Smallville: Season 11, DC immediately started up an Arrow digital series, which comes out in print a certain amount of time after the chapters have been released online. (A great way to double dip, in my opinion.) Longtime Green Arrow comics writer/artist Mike Grell has been involved, a treat for fans.

Recently word came that rising star Jeff Lemire would take over writing on the Green Arrow comic that’s part of the New 52. I’ve been buying the book regularly anyway, but I’ll buy with more interest with him involved. (Hey, I’d do that no matter what comic he was working on!)

DC Comics, New 52, Justice League, Arrow, Green Arrow, Stephen Amell, Neal Adams, Denny O'Neil, BatmanAs a “seasoned” comics reader, I remember Green Arrow’s glory days. He was originally a Batman-like hero who even had an Arrow plane, an Arrow cave, and an Arrow car. Thankfully, he didn’t have an Arrow dog named Ace.

Neal Adams revamped his costumed in the late 1960s, then the artist joined Denny O’Neil to send the hero going across the country with Green Lantern in an attempt to make the Lantern’s book more “relevant.”

Green Arrow became more liberal politically as time went on, and we saw (and some of us even enjoyed) his occasional debates with Hawkman, who was perceived to lean more to the right.

When Smallville couldn’t bring on Batman because the character’s TV rights belonged to another company at the time, the show’s producers brought in Justin Hartley to play the Emerald Archer. Hartley had previously played Aquaman in a failed TV pilot.

After appearing on Justice League Unlimited quite a bit, Green Arrow became a semi-regular in the Batman: The Brave and the Bold animated series on Cartoon Network.

DC Comics, New 52, Justice League, Arrow, Green Arrow, Stephen Amell, Neal Adams, Denny O'Neil, BatmanSince the 1970s, Green Arrow has been romantically tied to Black Canary, who came to Earth-1 from Earth-2. They’ve teamed up in the comics several times, although Mr. Lemire has said in recent interviews that he would prefer to keep her out of the picture for now.

One similarity the actors Hartley and Amell share is their inability to remember to put their shirts on when the camera runs. Maybe we should take a collection of funds to buy shirts for those actors. (Just kidding! I know the ladies enjoy shirtless scenes no matter how often they make guys gag.)

Where will Green Arrow go from here? I hope his star continues shooting high and that he’ll carve out his own place in comics, TV and the movies.

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