Writer: Rick Remender
Pencils: Daniel Acuna
Inker: Daniel Acuna
Colorist: Daniel Acuna
Letterer: Clayton Cowled
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
I can finally walk away from an issue from this series and say, with confidence, that I understand what the hell is going on. I see what Kang is trying to do, I see what the Apocalypse Twins are attempting and I understand how Red Skull ties in to everything that is presented, which is great. With all of that under my belt, I can finally sit back and start to enjoy the ride that is Uncanny Avengers.
This issue dealt with a ripple effect from the appearance of the new four horsemen as well as the twins trying to convince Wanda to work with them to rapture the mutant race off of the planet Earth. This rapture actually makes sense other than the fact that it would be giving up Xavier's dream of everyone living in peace. Also, if all of the mutants were to leave the planet it would leave everything open for the Red Skull to take over with minimal heroes to stop him and ultimately for Kang to get what he wants.
The individual battles with the horsemen was done very well but I specifically enjoyed the romp between Wolverine and Daken. There is a lot of hate and regret between the two of them and it is interesting to see Wolverine actually suffer for one of his decisions. I only wish I knew where in canon this story falls because I am not certain if Wolverine has his healing factor anymore (he doesn't in Wolverine) because if he doesn't...well he isn't long for the Earth even if they don't rapture.
Remender has, once again, pulled me into one of his dark tales and has made me hungry for so much more. For a book that was originally shakey for me and close to my drop list, this has blown my socks off and is slowly pushing its way to my pick of the week.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Uncanny X-Men #11
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Pencilers: Frazer Irving and Kris Anka
Colorist: Frazer Irving and Kris Anka
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
Broken and a little confused, the X-Men enter this story ready to battle a strange new Sentinel. They had previously arrived at a rally of a group of humans that actually support Scott's cause and are not sure why everyone is so mad at him. Of course, the bad seems to follow this team and there is obviously something a little off as to what is going on. Why can these Sentinels always find them? Who exactly is torturing them?
Well, I suppose we will get to that. The main part of this story is that we are starting to see a little growth in the newly introduced characters. The new mutants are showing their powers and their limited knowledge of what they can do. Heck, Goldballs (not sure if he is going with that name but I love it) blasts the Sentinel with his golden balls of power and knocks it back. There is also a focus on how well the old members of the team bounce off of one another and can work without real orders. This is lucky, because otherwise Scott would be dead after the first few pages of this story.
The question is, who is really doing this to them? We know it isn't the Hellfire Club because they are busy messing with Wolverine's school. We actually get a glimpse of who is doing it but it is an unfamiliar character. I have no idea who it is but they obviously have a grudge against Scott. I wonder if it ends up being Xavier? (That was a joke...it better freggin not be)
Overall, this book is starting to find a direction and is allowing us to see that there is a story growing here. I am definitely in Bendis' corner when it comes to these current X-Books. With the huge Battle of the Atom event starting next week, that is a good thing. I am beyond excited to see what (and who) it brings.
Pencilers: Frazer Irving and Kris Anka
Colorist: Frazer Irving and Kris Anka
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
Broken and a little confused, the X-Men enter this story ready to battle a strange new Sentinel. They had previously arrived at a rally of a group of humans that actually support Scott's cause and are not sure why everyone is so mad at him. Of course, the bad seems to follow this team and there is obviously something a little off as to what is going on. Why can these Sentinels always find them? Who exactly is torturing them?
Well, I suppose we will get to that. The main part of this story is that we are starting to see a little growth in the newly introduced characters. The new mutants are showing their powers and their limited knowledge of what they can do. Heck, Goldballs (not sure if he is going with that name but I love it) blasts the Sentinel with his golden balls of power and knocks it back. There is also a focus on how well the old members of the team bounce off of one another and can work without real orders. This is lucky, because otherwise Scott would be dead after the first few pages of this story.
The question is, who is really doing this to them? We know it isn't the Hellfire Club because they are busy messing with Wolverine's school. We actually get a glimpse of who is doing it but it is an unfamiliar character. I have no idea who it is but they obviously have a grudge against Scott. I wonder if it ends up being Xavier? (That was a joke...it better freggin not be)
Overall, this book is starting to find a direction and is allowing us to see that there is a story growing here. I am definitely in Bendis' corner when it comes to these current X-Books. With the huge Battle of the Atom event starting next week, that is a good thing. I am beyond excited to see what (and who) it brings.
Wolverine and the X-Men #35
Writer: Jason Aaron
Penciler: Nick Bradshaw
Inker: Walden Wong
Colorists: Laura Martin, Guru eFX, Thomas Mason, Matt Milla, Sotocolor
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
Finally I am done questioning this title. I was smiling from cheek to cheek when I closed the final page, then reopened it to look at the teaser for Battle of the Atom on the last page. I am also glad to see that the Hellfire Academy stuff is done. It was a little too goofy for me at points and I really didn't like the Snot mutant. I am also not certain how I feel about the Hellions as a whole but see that a few of them will still be functional with the help of some of the staff of the academy.
I guess I got ahead of myself a little bit. We left Quentin Quire and Idie trying to escape the Academy while the Jean Grey school was coming to get them. There is just pure chaos within the walls of the Academy and Kade is convinced that he has won because what he has done has set in motion great changes for the X-Men. I think he may be right there considering the changes in Quentin (he likes being a hero), the relationship with Quentin and Idie as well as what happened with Broo.
Of course everything turned out okay. Villains got away, heroes returned to their school and Logan decided to keep the place open. There are a few new students (Hellfire Club kids) and Broo is back to being himself after biting a Bamf. It seems to be truly a calm settling before the storm that is going to be The Battle of the Atom.
Now...look away if you hate spoilers.....
Seriously....
SPOILERS......
We see after Broo bites the Bamf that someone dressed in a white cloak is sitting there as well. On the final pages of the book we see this character again with his long blue tail flicking from beneath his outfit. He mutters a few words: "Let's hope you're right. Let's hope the X-Men still remember their old friends. And that they're not afraid to risk their lives on more time...to save a dead man..." So...it seems that Nightcrawler will be back and THAT, my friends, is why this book made me smile and excited to see what is to come.
Penciler: Nick Bradshaw
Inker: Walden Wong
Colorists: Laura Martin, Guru eFX, Thomas Mason, Matt Milla, Sotocolor
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
"The Hellfire Saga Conclusion"
Finally I am done questioning this title. I was smiling from cheek to cheek when I closed the final page, then reopened it to look at the teaser for Battle of the Atom on the last page. I am also glad to see that the Hellfire Academy stuff is done. It was a little too goofy for me at points and I really didn't like the Snot mutant. I am also not certain how I feel about the Hellions as a whole but see that a few of them will still be functional with the help of some of the staff of the academy.
I guess I got ahead of myself a little bit. We left Quentin Quire and Idie trying to escape the Academy while the Jean Grey school was coming to get them. There is just pure chaos within the walls of the Academy and Kade is convinced that he has won because what he has done has set in motion great changes for the X-Men. I think he may be right there considering the changes in Quentin (he likes being a hero), the relationship with Quentin and Idie as well as what happened with Broo.
Of course everything turned out okay. Villains got away, heroes returned to their school and Logan decided to keep the place open. There are a few new students (Hellfire Club kids) and Broo is back to being himself after biting a Bamf. It seems to be truly a calm settling before the storm that is going to be The Battle of the Atom.
Now...look away if you hate spoilers.....
Seriously....
SPOILERS......
We see after Broo bites the Bamf that someone dressed in a white cloak is sitting there as well. On the final pages of the book we see this character again with his long blue tail flicking from beneath his outfit. He mutters a few words: "Let's hope you're right. Let's hope the X-Men still remember their old friends. And that they're not afraid to risk their lives on more time...to save a dead man..." So...it seems that Nightcrawler will be back and THAT, my friends, is why this book made me smile and excited to see what is to come.
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #26
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Art: Dave Marquez
Colors: Justin Ponsor
Lettering: Cory Petit
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
These last few issues of Ultimate Comics Spider-Man have been really impressive. Then again, this series has been impressive from the beginning. I remember, about a year ago, wondering how I could ever like someone other than Peter Parker as Spider-Man and now, I can't seem to find a Spider-Man that is Peter Parker and oddly enough, I am not upset about it. The story telling that is able to happen by putting someone else under the helm is a lot of fun.
Anyhow, enough gushing about my favorite superhero (Spidey as a whole). These last few issues of Spider-Man No More have been a great way to get introduced to some more people in the Ultimate Universe that we haven't really seen. This issue was no different in that we got the back story to both Bombshells and received a little more information about the Roxxon Corporation and their drive to create their own super soldier. This story ends with the introduction of Taskmaster who is bound to make things difficult for Spidey, Bombshell and Spider-Woman.
I think the reason I am so drawn to this title is because the characters really start to feel real. I have compassion for what Cloak and Dagger are going through, I feel bad that Bombshell was forced into her life because of her mother (and Roxxon) and I definitely feel bad for Miles after his mother was killed. Even with the minimal exposure to the title character in this issue, I felt love for the characters in it. If Bendis can keep up this pace (as he has so far), I think this book will be around for a long time.
Art: Dave Marquez
Colors: Justin Ponsor
Lettering: Cory Petit
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
"Spider-Man No More"
These last few issues of Ultimate Comics Spider-Man have been really impressive. Then again, this series has been impressive from the beginning. I remember, about a year ago, wondering how I could ever like someone other than Peter Parker as Spider-Man and now, I can't seem to find a Spider-Man that is Peter Parker and oddly enough, I am not upset about it. The story telling that is able to happen by putting someone else under the helm is a lot of fun.
Anyhow, enough gushing about my favorite superhero (Spidey as a whole). These last few issues of Spider-Man No More have been a great way to get introduced to some more people in the Ultimate Universe that we haven't really seen. This issue was no different in that we got the back story to both Bombshells and received a little more information about the Roxxon Corporation and their drive to create their own super soldier. This story ends with the introduction of Taskmaster who is bound to make things difficult for Spidey, Bombshell and Spider-Woman.
I think the reason I am so drawn to this title is because the characters really start to feel real. I have compassion for what Cloak and Dagger are going through, I feel bad that Bombshell was forced into her life because of her mother (and Roxxon) and I definitely feel bad for Miles after his mother was killed. Even with the minimal exposure to the title character in this issue, I felt love for the characters in it. If Bendis can keep up this pace (as he has so far), I think this book will be around for a long time.
Scarlet Spider #21
Writers: Christ Yost & Erik Burnham
Artists: Carlo Barberi & David Baldeon
Inks: Pallot & Olazaba
Colors: Chris Sotomayor
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
I was excited for this book the instant I saw the cover which touted Ben Reilly. That's right, the sleeveless hoodie clone of Peter Parker seemed to be making some sort of triumphant return while battling his..err...brother which carries his namesake. Considering how quick people are to return from the dead in comic books, I felt pretty confident that we were getting to see the return of a fan favorite from the 90's. Also, with the recent return of the Jackal, it seemed that this would be a fitting time to see him reappear.
The book mostly consisted of the people around Kaine getting hurt while he was battling his "brother". The constant struggle that Kaine suffers with to not be a killer anymore and being a hero is truly focused on during this book. He continues to apologies to Ben and refuses to kill him when he finally has the upper hand. The fight between the two was also incredibly intense and put a lot of emotional strain on Kaine.
In the end we learn the future fate of Ben Reilly and are teased to the story arc that is coming. I really don't want to ruin it, even though I am bursting at the seams. I am really happy this book is continuing considering we are seeing the end of Venom and now that the book is picking up momentum again. I am truly excited for next month's issue.
Artists: Carlo Barberi & David Baldeon
Inks: Pallot & Olazaba
Colors: Chris Sotomayor
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 28th, 2013
"Into the Grave Part 1"
I was excited for this book the instant I saw the cover which touted Ben Reilly. That's right, the sleeveless hoodie clone of Peter Parker seemed to be making some sort of triumphant return while battling his..err...brother which carries his namesake. Considering how quick people are to return from the dead in comic books, I felt pretty confident that we were getting to see the return of a fan favorite from the 90's. Also, with the recent return of the Jackal, it seemed that this would be a fitting time to see him reappear.
The book mostly consisted of the people around Kaine getting hurt while he was battling his "brother". The constant struggle that Kaine suffers with to not be a killer anymore and being a hero is truly focused on during this book. He continues to apologies to Ben and refuses to kill him when he finally has the upper hand. The fight between the two was also incredibly intense and put a lot of emotional strain on Kaine.
In the end we learn the future fate of Ben Reilly and are teased to the story arc that is coming. I really don't want to ruin it, even though I am bursting at the seams. I am really happy this book is continuing considering we are seeing the end of Venom and now that the book is picking up momentum again. I am truly excited for next month's issue.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Weekly pulls for 8/28/13
This week I haven't been as focused on comics as I normally would be. I am a huge Final Fantasy fan and this week marked the launch of Final Fantasy XIV a Realm Reborn. It has been riddled with errors and issues and it has made it very hard for me to play but for some reason I have been borderline obsessed with it. If you randomly play I am on the Leviathan world with the handle Blazing Soul. I am worried that when they get their server issues sorted (supposedly by next week) I will lose a lot of my comic book time.
With that said, I am rushing to the conclusion of my Amazing Spider-Man retro-read. As of last night I closed the chapters of Grim Hunt with issues #634 and feel pretty confident that I will be finishing the whole read within a month. It is hard to believe that I started tackling this around a year ago and I really do not regret the decision. There has been a lot to love, quite a bit to be sad about, and it helped grow my love for my favorite Marvel hero to date. When I have finished the retro-read I intend to put a relatively comprehensive blog post up, but I am sure I will lose details while gushing.
In other comic news, we are in the last week before the Battle of the Atom X-event and I have to admit I am excited. The X-books have been so consistently good as of late that it is hard to not get a little slap-happy about an event that is connecting them. Oh, and did I mention another X-title is to come during this time-frame? I am a bit excited about it because we should get some Nightcrawler action again.
One last thing that I can't remember if I mentioned or not, but Venom has been cancelled. Right after it starts getting good again and I really start connecting with Flash it is over in..well a Flash. I hear issue #42 is the final book but it will tie into The Superior Spider-Man somehow which could be very dark, and very interesting.
Anyhow, here are my pulls for today:
Scarlet Spider #21
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #26
Uncanny Avengers #11
Uncanny X-Men #11
Wolverine and the X-Men #35
Seems to be that I am averaging five-six books a week anymore. I would love to find some more fat to trim (and am still battling with Wolverine and the X-Men) but I haven't found anything yet that I feel confident dropping. Okay, reviews will come after I have had the chance to read my books! Until then, happy reading comic fans.
With that said, I am rushing to the conclusion of my Amazing Spider-Man retro-read. As of last night I closed the chapters of Grim Hunt with issues #634 and feel pretty confident that I will be finishing the whole read within a month. It is hard to believe that I started tackling this around a year ago and I really do not regret the decision. There has been a lot to love, quite a bit to be sad about, and it helped grow my love for my favorite Marvel hero to date. When I have finished the retro-read I intend to put a relatively comprehensive blog post up, but I am sure I will lose details while gushing.
In other comic news, we are in the last week before the Battle of the Atom X-event and I have to admit I am excited. The X-books have been so consistently good as of late that it is hard to not get a little slap-happy about an event that is connecting them. Oh, and did I mention another X-title is to come during this time-frame? I am a bit excited about it because we should get some Nightcrawler action again.
One last thing that I can't remember if I mentioned or not, but Venom has been cancelled. Right after it starts getting good again and I really start connecting with Flash it is over in..well a Flash. I hear issue #42 is the final book but it will tie into The Superior Spider-Man somehow which could be very dark, and very interesting.
Anyhow, here are my pulls for today:
Scarlet Spider #21
Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #26
Uncanny Avengers #11
Uncanny X-Men #11
Wolverine and the X-Men #35
Seems to be that I am averaging five-six books a week anymore. I would love to find some more fat to trim (and am still battling with Wolverine and the X-Men) but I haven't found anything yet that I feel confident dropping. Okay, reviews will come after I have had the chance to read my books! Until then, happy reading comic fans.
Friday, August 23, 2013
X-Men Legacy #15
Writer: Simpon Spurrier
Penciler: Tan Eng Huat
Inker: Craig Yeung
Colorist: Jose Villarrubia
Letterer: Cory Petit
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
This is yet another strong and emotional showing from Simon Spurrier in his telling of the David Haller story. This issue we get the chance to see David interact with his human mother, Gabrielle Haller and allows him the chance to ask her a few questions about his childhood.
Spurrier does an incredible job giving more back story on David through the short story telling moments drafted through flashback images. We get a taste of his being "raised" at Muir Island as well as the whole Age of X story arc. David obviously has issues with the fact that his mother handed him over into his "father's world" instead of allowing him to just exist in her world.
There is a quick and emotional twist at the end that shows what David can do when he is truly upset and the first place that he goes quickly after. It is hard to not feel bad about David because of what has happened to him in the past and the fact that he isn't exactly having the easiest life now. I have said before that Spurrier has made it possible to actually care about a character that I had once basically forgot about and he just keeps doing it. There is no doubt that X-Men Legacy is standing with the flagship titles and proves every month that it deserves to be there.
I am beyond excited about the drums...if you read this issue, you will know what I mean.
Penciler: Tan Eng Huat
Inker: Craig Yeung
Colorist: Jose Villarrubia
Letterer: Cory Petit
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
"The Place of Broken Things"
This is yet another strong and emotional showing from Simon Spurrier in his telling of the David Haller story. This issue we get the chance to see David interact with his human mother, Gabrielle Haller and allows him the chance to ask her a few questions about his childhood.
Spurrier does an incredible job giving more back story on David through the short story telling moments drafted through flashback images. We get a taste of his being "raised" at Muir Island as well as the whole Age of X story arc. David obviously has issues with the fact that his mother handed him over into his "father's world" instead of allowing him to just exist in her world.
There is a quick and emotional twist at the end that shows what David can do when he is truly upset and the first place that he goes quickly after. It is hard to not feel bad about David because of what has happened to him in the past and the fact that he isn't exactly having the easiest life now. I have said before that Spurrier has made it possible to actually care about a character that I had once basically forgot about and he just keeps doing it. There is no doubt that X-Men Legacy is standing with the flagship titles and proves every month that it deserves to be there.
I am beyond excited about the drums...if you read this issue, you will know what I mean.
X-Men #4
Writer: Brian Wood
Penciler: David Lopez
Inkers: Cam Smith w/ Norman Lee
Colorist: Cris Peter
Lettering: Joe Caramagna
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
I think the best way to describe Brian Wood's creation with X-Men is by calling it family. So far it has really focused on the relationships with the long time members of the X-family and this issue was no different. At the end of the last issue and the close of the last arc, Storm hesitated to kill another character and Rachel is not a big fan that she even considered murder. There is a bit of a struggle between those two for not only that, but for Storm's natural urge to run the team as she sees fit.
On the flip side, three other well known X-Men were working closely together to save a plane full of passengers. We got more of Wood's interpretation of the personalities of Kitty, Psylocke and Rogue. Their interactions and feeding off of one another's powers was enjoyable and impressive. Wood is truly building them as characters rather than just fill in powers when needed.
The third part of this story takes place with Wolverine and Jubilee going around California where Jubilee originally grew up and joined the team. It showed that there is still a very strong relationship between Wolvie and Jubilee and that he will do whatever he can to take care of her. There were also a couple moments with her dealing with being a mother with Shogo.
This was obviously a calm before the storm type issue that is leading into The Battle of the Atom that is starting next month. I am digging Woods interpretation of this part of the X-team and am excited to see where he goes with them. Considering we are only four issues in, this is a great start.
Penciler: David Lopez
Inkers: Cam Smith w/ Norman Lee
Colorist: Cris Peter
Lettering: Joe Caramagna
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
I think the best way to describe Brian Wood's creation with X-Men is by calling it family. So far it has really focused on the relationships with the long time members of the X-family and this issue was no different. At the end of the last issue and the close of the last arc, Storm hesitated to kill another character and Rachel is not a big fan that she even considered murder. There is a bit of a struggle between those two for not only that, but for Storm's natural urge to run the team as she sees fit.
On the flip side, three other well known X-Men were working closely together to save a plane full of passengers. We got more of Wood's interpretation of the personalities of Kitty, Psylocke and Rogue. Their interactions and feeding off of one another's powers was enjoyable and impressive. Wood is truly building them as characters rather than just fill in powers when needed.
The third part of this story takes place with Wolverine and Jubilee going around California where Jubilee originally grew up and joined the team. It showed that there is still a very strong relationship between Wolvie and Jubilee and that he will do whatever he can to take care of her. There were also a couple moments with her dealing with being a mother with Shogo.
This was obviously a calm before the storm type issue that is leading into The Battle of the Atom that is starting next month. I am digging Woods interpretation of this part of the X-team and am excited to see where he goes with them. Considering we are only four issues in, this is a great start.
Venom #39
Writer: Cullen Bunn
Artist: Kim Jacinto w/ Mike Henderson (pages 16-20)
Color Art: Lee Loughridge
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
I am so happy I didn't give up on Bunn's run on Venom. There was definitely a rocky point there a handful of issues back but I think he has finally hit his stride with Flash in Philly. I feel that Bunn has allowed us to get a fresh look at Flash trying to start over and build himself as a hero instead of trying to simply follow in the shoes of Spider-Man in New York.
We left last issue with Flash battling Jack-o-Lantern again and while in an attempt to save his student and neighbor Andi, accidentally gave her a piece of the symbiote which created the new character Mania. This issue basically dealt with Andi trying to get revenge for the death of her father and Flash trying to balance her out so that the symbiote didn't take her completely over. It was interesting how Bunn decided to let Andi gain control over the alien so quickly and she even seems to have good control over it which is insanely uncommon for someone new to the symbiote. It may have something to do with her age or even that Flash has made his own symbiote docile enough that the piece had the same attributes.
It seems there is a lot out there trying to get Flash and it doesn't really hurt to have another buddy to take some of the brunt of it. Even though Andi is no longer located in Philly at the end of this issue, we are bound to see her again as Mania. I highly doubt Bunn would have introduced her and then never use her again. I am sure there are going to be a lot of fights in the coming issues with the seeming promise of a return of the true Jack-o-Lantern and Ogre coming at Flash full force. I am truly digging this direction of Venom and hope that Bunn can keep it up.
Artist: Kim Jacinto w/ Mike Henderson (pages 16-20)
Color Art: Lee Loughridge
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
I am so happy I didn't give up on Bunn's run on Venom. There was definitely a rocky point there a handful of issues back but I think he has finally hit his stride with Flash in Philly. I feel that Bunn has allowed us to get a fresh look at Flash trying to start over and build himself as a hero instead of trying to simply follow in the shoes of Spider-Man in New York.
We left last issue with Flash battling Jack-o-Lantern again and while in an attempt to save his student and neighbor Andi, accidentally gave her a piece of the symbiote which created the new character Mania. This issue basically dealt with Andi trying to get revenge for the death of her father and Flash trying to balance her out so that the symbiote didn't take her completely over. It was interesting how Bunn decided to let Andi gain control over the alien so quickly and she even seems to have good control over it which is insanely uncommon for someone new to the symbiote. It may have something to do with her age or even that Flash has made his own symbiote docile enough that the piece had the same attributes.
It seems there is a lot out there trying to get Flash and it doesn't really hurt to have another buddy to take some of the brunt of it. Even though Andi is no longer located in Philly at the end of this issue, we are bound to see her again as Mania. I highly doubt Bunn would have introduced her and then never use her again. I am sure there are going to be a lot of fights in the coming issues with the seeming promise of a return of the true Jack-o-Lantern and Ogre coming at Flash full force. I am truly digging this direction of Venom and hope that Bunn can keep it up.
The Superior Spider-Man #16
Writer: Dan Slott
Penciler: Humberto Ramos
Inker: Victor Olazaba
Color Art: Edgar Delgado
Letterer: Chris Eliopoulos
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 21st. 2013
There is so freggin much going on in the world of Spider-Man right now that it is hard to not get excited every time an issue comes out. This week's book was no exception with the cover showing an image of Hobgoblin with his own sword jammed into him. I was smiling cheek to cheek when I opened the pages and didn't stop until I closed the book.
We last left our hero when he was announcing to New York that the Hobgoblin was no other than famed photographer Phil Urich. The beginning of this issued showed him inside the Bugle, trying to figure out what to do while quickly losing his cool. He was found out, Spidey was after him and there was really not much that could stop him.
There is a glorious moment in the issue that has Spidey talking to Robbie Robertson about the irony that he wont believe that Phil is Hobgoblin while the Bugle had been known to hunt Spider-Man with no just cause in the past. This reference to when J. Jonah Jameson ran the paper was wonderful and made a ton of sense. As for the battle between Phil and Spidey...well I really don't want to ruin it so pick up the book.
At the end of the issue there is no doubt that the Goblin King is getting ready to move and that there is something massive going on. It is also noted that Carlie Cooper is getting much closer to figuring out that Spider-Man isn't exactly who he seems to be anymore.
Everything that is happening in this book is so well orchestrated and connected that it is impossible to not bow to Slott. I know a lot of people were initially angry at his idea to get rid of Peter, but it has made for some intense reading and a truly different look into how Spider-Man can be if his morals were a little looser. If you gave this up after the first issue or two and you consider yourself a Spider-Man fan, give it another chance. You are missing out on a truly fun story.
Penciler: Humberto Ramos
Inker: Victor Olazaba
Color Art: Edgar Delgado
Letterer: Chris Eliopoulos
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 21st. 2013
There is so freggin much going on in the world of Spider-Man right now that it is hard to not get excited every time an issue comes out. This week's book was no exception with the cover showing an image of Hobgoblin with his own sword jammed into him. I was smiling cheek to cheek when I opened the pages and didn't stop until I closed the book.
We last left our hero when he was announcing to New York that the Hobgoblin was no other than famed photographer Phil Urich. The beginning of this issued showed him inside the Bugle, trying to figure out what to do while quickly losing his cool. He was found out, Spidey was after him and there was really not much that could stop him.
There is a glorious moment in the issue that has Spidey talking to Robbie Robertson about the irony that he wont believe that Phil is Hobgoblin while the Bugle had been known to hunt Spider-Man with no just cause in the past. This reference to when J. Jonah Jameson ran the paper was wonderful and made a ton of sense. As for the battle between Phil and Spidey...well I really don't want to ruin it so pick up the book.
At the end of the issue there is no doubt that the Goblin King is getting ready to move and that there is something massive going on. It is also noted that Carlie Cooper is getting much closer to figuring out that Spider-Man isn't exactly who he seems to be anymore.
Everything that is happening in this book is so well orchestrated and connected that it is impossible to not bow to Slott. I know a lot of people were initially angry at his idea to get rid of Peter, but it has made for some intense reading and a truly different look into how Spider-Man can be if his morals were a little looser. If you gave this up after the first issue or two and you consider yourself a Spider-Man fan, give it another chance. You are missing out on a truly fun story.
Cable and X-Force #13
Plot: Dennis Hopeless
Script: Cullen Bunn
Art: Salvador Larroca & Gerardo Sandoval
Letterer: Joe Sabino
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
I was sort of shocked to realize that I have already read 12 previous issues to this series. I also am quick to admit that it hasn't been the easiest ride considering my initial excitement for a book with Cable on the front lines and Hope as a promised main. I really don't know what I was expecting and can still say I am never sure what each book will contain. I will say that we are starting to get some questions answered.
This issue showed Hope picking up in the future talking to...well her future self and finding out why exactly Cable has been having his "premonitions". She is, understandably, confused and not really happy with...herself? At least we know the who is doing and why they are doing stuff to Cable.
The other sections of the book dealt with where all of the other members of the team are and what their game plan seems to be. They are trying to figure out the best way to free Cable from his imprisonment from the Uncanny Avengers and by the end of the book they seem prepared to do so.
This issue gave me a little hope for the coming books. These little glimmers of hope have appeared before and have been a little let down in the past. I am not sure how much longer I can ride this roller coaster of mediocrity, but I suppose I can give it another month or two.
Script: Cullen Bunn
Art: Salvador Larroca & Gerardo Sandoval
Letterer: Joe Sabino
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 21st, 2013
I was sort of shocked to realize that I have already read 12 previous issues to this series. I also am quick to admit that it hasn't been the easiest ride considering my initial excitement for a book with Cable on the front lines and Hope as a promised main. I really don't know what I was expecting and can still say I am never sure what each book will contain. I will say that we are starting to get some questions answered.
This issue showed Hope picking up in the future talking to...well her future self and finding out why exactly Cable has been having his "premonitions". She is, understandably, confused and not really happy with...herself? At least we know the who is doing and why they are doing stuff to Cable.
The other sections of the book dealt with where all of the other members of the team are and what their game plan seems to be. They are trying to figure out the best way to free Cable from his imprisonment from the Uncanny Avengers and by the end of the book they seem prepared to do so.
This issue gave me a little hope for the coming books. These little glimmers of hope have appeared before and have been a little let down in the past. I am not sure how much longer I can ride this roller coaster of mediocrity, but I suppose I can give it another month or two.
Weekly pulls for 08/21/13
It is that time of the week again, comic book time! Wow, that was cheesy... Anyhow, this week was a little special for me because it was one of those rare weeks that I do not simply buy comics but also buy Heroclix. I had been waiting with bated breath for the Wolverine and the X-Men set to come out and had a case ordered and paid for a while ago. I am not normally one to invest in clix to that extent, but this is X-Men! I guess I just wanted to share that. If anyone is interested in what I pulled, ask after Saturday because I am waiting to bust the case open for when I am with my buddy who plays the game with me.
In other news, I am pushing on in the ASM retro read and am on issue #610! That's right, 90 more issues of the book to go. I know that sounds like a lot but when you have already read 610, it really isn't. I assume I should be done with the whole retro read by (at latest) end of September...which is really exciting for me. I will probably do some sort of gushing blog post OR just go crazy on the podcast about it. Only time will tell for sure.
Okay, enough about that. I guess it is time for the glorious list of pulls for this lovely week:
Cable and X-Force #13
The Superior Spider-Man #16
Venom #39
X-Men #4
X-Men Legacy #15
Once again, all X-Men and Spider-Man related books. I guess I have my interests... Reviews shall follow shortly. Until then my lovely readers, enjoy your books.
In other news, I am pushing on in the ASM retro read and am on issue #610! That's right, 90 more issues of the book to go. I know that sounds like a lot but when you have already read 610, it really isn't. I assume I should be done with the whole retro read by (at latest) end of September...which is really exciting for me. I will probably do some sort of gushing blog post OR just go crazy on the podcast about it. Only time will tell for sure.
Okay, enough about that. I guess it is time for the glorious list of pulls for this lovely week:
Cable and X-Force #13
The Superior Spider-Man #16
Venom #39
X-Men #4
X-Men Legacy #15
Once again, all X-Men and Spider-Man related books. I guess I have my interests... Reviews shall follow shortly. Until then my lovely readers, enjoy your books.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Wolverine and the X-Men #34
Writer: Jason Aaron
Pencils: Nick Bradshaw
Inks: Walden Wong
Colorist: Laura Martin
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
This recent arc in Wolverine and the X-Men has made me uncertain. I had basically given up on this title but decided to stick with it through the Children of the Atom event coming up but I am starting to remember what I liked about it in the first place. There are undercurrents of comedy in serious situations (specifically Doop in this issue with his "Home Movies") and at the same time there is a lot of emotion present.
This issue focused on the teachers of the Jean Grey School coming to stop the Hellfire Academy from being a thing. They storm the school using their Krakoa as well as Ice-Man creating a giant, Voltron looking, ice-robot to try to handle Kade's Krakoas. In all reality, this issue was just a giant fight. There are a few exchanges between people that needed to happen but it was just a lot of fists flying around. I am not saying that is a bad thing, I am just saying that is what it was.
The thing that is concerning is that Kade is still so certain that he is winning when everything seems to be a loss. I know that this will be answered in the final issue of this arc that is coming soon, but it leaves me questioning. I think that is what is renewing my faith with this title. The fact that I am still thinking about the events and trying to figure out what they mean means that there is actually some story to enjoy here. Hopefully that means that we are back on an upward swing and I can start enjoying Aaron's work here again. Only time will truly tell.
Pencils: Nick Bradshaw
Inks: Walden Wong
Colorist: Laura Martin
Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
"The Hellfire Saga Part 4"
This recent arc in Wolverine and the X-Men has made me uncertain. I had basically given up on this title but decided to stick with it through the Children of the Atom event coming up but I am starting to remember what I liked about it in the first place. There are undercurrents of comedy in serious situations (specifically Doop in this issue with his "Home Movies") and at the same time there is a lot of emotion present.
This issue focused on the teachers of the Jean Grey School coming to stop the Hellfire Academy from being a thing. They storm the school using their Krakoa as well as Ice-Man creating a giant, Voltron looking, ice-robot to try to handle Kade's Krakoas. In all reality, this issue was just a giant fight. There are a few exchanges between people that needed to happen but it was just a lot of fists flying around. I am not saying that is a bad thing, I am just saying that is what it was.
The thing that is concerning is that Kade is still so certain that he is winning when everything seems to be a loss. I know that this will be answered in the final issue of this arc that is coming soon, but it leaves me questioning. I think that is what is renewing my faith with this title. The fact that I am still thinking about the events and trying to figure out what they mean means that there is actually some story to enjoy here. Hopefully that means that we are back on an upward swing and I can start enjoying Aaron's work here again. Only time will truly tell.
Uncanny X-Men #10
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Art: Frazer Irving
Lettering and Production: Joe Caramagna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
I have to start this by saying that I am loving the direction that Bendis is taking the X-Men. His books are giving me connections to heroes that I haven't really cared about before, introduced new heroes to me and reminded me why I have always had a love for my mutants,
This issue, although not the most action packed, continued to build the relationships between the characters. I think one of the more interesting things in this issue is the focus on Magneto and Maria Hill. His odd betrayal not betrayal of the X-Men is interesting. I want to know if he is actually trying to play S.H.I.E.L.D. or if he is actually upset enough with Scott to give information to the government.
I also really enjoyed seeing a basically civil rights protest about mutants being treated equally. There is a nice reference to how the mutants during AvX started trying to make the world a better place instead of destroy it which proved that not everything Scott was doing was terrible. It is also refreshing to see Bendis actually refer to the event instead of just ignoring that it went down fairly recently.
I am insanely interested to see what is going to happen with the sentinels, the new students of the school and the old X-Men members. Bendis has done a masterful job to keep my attention and it has been a pleasure to pick this and All-New X-Men up every month.
Art: Frazer Irving
Lettering and Production: Joe Caramagna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
I have to start this by saying that I am loving the direction that Bendis is taking the X-Men. His books are giving me connections to heroes that I haven't really cared about before, introduced new heroes to me and reminded me why I have always had a love for my mutants,
This issue, although not the most action packed, continued to build the relationships between the characters. I think one of the more interesting things in this issue is the focus on Magneto and Maria Hill. His odd betrayal not betrayal of the X-Men is interesting. I want to know if he is actually trying to play S.H.I.E.L.D. or if he is actually upset enough with Scott to give information to the government.
I also really enjoyed seeing a basically civil rights protest about mutants being treated equally. There is a nice reference to how the mutants during AvX started trying to make the world a better place instead of destroy it which proved that not everything Scott was doing was terrible. It is also refreshing to see Bendis actually refer to the event instead of just ignoring that it went down fairly recently.
I am insanely interested to see what is going to happen with the sentinels, the new students of the school and the old X-Men members. Bendis has done a masterful job to keep my attention and it has been a pleasure to pick this and All-New X-Men up every month.
Uncanny X-Force #10
Writer: Sam Humphries
Aritst: Ramon Perez
Color Artists: Jay David Ramos and Rachelle Rosenberg
Letterer: Cory Petit
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
I am really uncertain about this title. The previous arc with the strange Fantomax love story thing with Psylocke just felt blah. I was debating dropping the book after that but decided to give it another arc with the promise of more Bishop in my life. I remember really enjoying my time with Bishop in the past and came into this hopeful that Humphries can give him a better voice than he has for Psylocke thus far. I say that about Psylocke because he still doesn't seem to understand how she works i.e. her calling some of the Revanants "scrubs". Ugh...
One of my other main issues with this title thus far is the seemingly forced use of censored swears. I know that Uncanny X-Force is supposed to be a much darker look into the X-universe but there is no need for swearing so heavily and using a blank out technique which seems to smear the page and break up the flow of dialogue.
There is a little good peaking through in this issue though. We gain a better understanding as to what the Revanants really are and what Bishop has been up to. We also get a look into the minds of the heroes of this title toward the end. I am just uncertain as to the inconsistent flow of story telling and wavering personalities. I intend to give this book until the end of this arc with the hope that Humphries gets a feel for these characters but in all honesty, it isn't looking too good.
Aritst: Ramon Perez
Color Artists: Jay David Ramos and Rachelle Rosenberg
Letterer: Cory Petit
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
I am really uncertain about this title. The previous arc with the strange Fantomax love story thing with Psylocke just felt blah. I was debating dropping the book after that but decided to give it another arc with the promise of more Bishop in my life. I remember really enjoying my time with Bishop in the past and came into this hopeful that Humphries can give him a better voice than he has for Psylocke thus far. I say that about Psylocke because he still doesn't seem to understand how she works i.e. her calling some of the Revanants "scrubs". Ugh...
One of my other main issues with this title thus far is the seemingly forced use of censored swears. I know that Uncanny X-Force is supposed to be a much darker look into the X-universe but there is no need for swearing so heavily and using a blank out technique which seems to smear the page and break up the flow of dialogue.
There is a little good peaking through in this issue though. We gain a better understanding as to what the Revanants really are and what Bishop has been up to. We also get a look into the minds of the heroes of this title toward the end. I am just uncertain as to the inconsistent flow of story telling and wavering personalities. I intend to give this book until the end of this arc with the hope that Humphries gets a feel for these characters but in all honesty, it isn't looking too good.
Superior Spider-Man Team Up #2
Writer: Christopher Yost
Artist: Marco Checchetto
Color Art: Rachelle Rosenberg
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
I probably shouldn't have written these blog posts out of order considering this book is the part one to the Sibling Rivalry story arc but I have gotten in the habit of writing these in alphabetical order that I sort of dropped the ball...oops.
Anyhow, as mentioned in the Scarlet Spider #20 review, this team up is Spider-Man and Scarlet Spider taking on Jackal and his clones...sort of. This first issue is more about Spider-Man versus Scarlet Spider because Otto has some bad memories of Kaine when he was still the "evil" clone. It is a little concerning how Otto just cuts loose even though he is supposed to still be putting on a show that he is Peter and it is also a little surprising the Kaine doesn't question the situation more but I guess the jumping in of the other clones distracted him enough to not question it.
I am happy to see Otto start to have more run ins with Peter's past and this story arc was fun, I just want to see it happen a little more consistently. I hope that something sparks in Kaine's mind later to make him really question what is going on with Peter, rather than just accepting the much more aggressive hate that his "brother" is showing him.
Artist: Marco Checchetto
Color Art: Rachelle Rosenberg
Letterer: Joe Caramagna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
"Sibling Rivalry Part 1"
I probably shouldn't have written these blog posts out of order considering this book is the part one to the Sibling Rivalry story arc but I have gotten in the habit of writing these in alphabetical order that I sort of dropped the ball...oops.
Anyhow, as mentioned in the Scarlet Spider #20 review, this team up is Spider-Man and Scarlet Spider taking on Jackal and his clones...sort of. This first issue is more about Spider-Man versus Scarlet Spider because Otto has some bad memories of Kaine when he was still the "evil" clone. It is a little concerning how Otto just cuts loose even though he is supposed to still be putting on a show that he is Peter and it is also a little surprising the Kaine doesn't question the situation more but I guess the jumping in of the other clones distracted him enough to not question it.
I am happy to see Otto start to have more run ins with Peter's past and this story arc was fun, I just want to see it happen a little more consistently. I hope that something sparks in Kaine's mind later to make him really question what is going on with Peter, rather than just accepting the much more aggressive hate that his "brother" is showing him.
Six-Gun Gorilla #3
Created and Written By: Simon Spurrier
Art By: Jeff Stokely
Colors By: Andre May
Letters By: Steve Wands
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th. 2013
I did not get the opportunity to gush about this book when I started reading it. The story is not like anything I have ever read before and is outside of my normal superhero comic that I normally read. Not only that, but it isn't published by Marvel! I guess I should give something of a rundown of what it is about.
We get this character who calls himself Blue, on a planet that is pretty harsh. The sun burns people alive if they are caught in it at high noon, there is basically no vegetation and the people that actually live there are suffering and dying. Well the people of Earth don't care too much and consider these people (brown coats) to be terrorists and are at war with them. Now the interesting thing about this world (because everything else is relatively standard) is that people can sign up to die. The people that sign up to die get a life insurance premium, go to war against the brown coats and are intended to die. These people get a camera/implant behind their eyes (making them blue) to record the things that they see to broadcast to the people of Earth. These recordings are a highly rated television show.
The interesting thing about Blue (not his real name of course), is that he took the life insurance out on himself to give the money to his now ex-girlfriend. He considers himself a loser and thinks this is the best thing to do. While on the planet and while on his mission to die, he comes in the possession of a mysterious watch that he is tasked to return to base and to send it the previous owner's wife. While on his mission to return it, he is attacked and saved by a massive Gorilla that happens to have a gun. For some reason the Gorilla is protecting him.
Okay, that wasn't the BEST synopsis but it gives the general idea of what the story is based on. I left out a lot of details because I think everyone should buy this book. I can't even scratch the surface of all of the cool things that happened in the first two books and the art is something that has to be seen. Jeff Stokely captures the emotions of the characters so well and the environments are insanely vivid. The only thing that makes it better is Simon Spurrier's slightly insane and interesting writing that floats over the images.
Issue three was not an exception as to how amazing this book has been. I am feeling incredibly attached to "Blue" and am loving learning about the environment. There is a moment in here with some weird, zombie-esque guys riding bicycles that is just quirky, sick and engaging that I had to re-read that part of the issue to make sure I didn't miss anything. Also, the Gorilla rocks. I am having issues waiting between each issue because I want to see how this story plays out. Sadly, it is only going to be six issues so I am already halfway there but this ride is one that no one should miss.
Art By: Jeff Stokely
Colors By: Andre May
Letters By: Steve Wands
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Price: $3.99
Release Date: August 14th. 2013
"Episode 3: Dyin Ain't Much of a Livin"
I did not get the opportunity to gush about this book when I started reading it. The story is not like anything I have ever read before and is outside of my normal superhero comic that I normally read. Not only that, but it isn't published by Marvel! I guess I should give something of a rundown of what it is about.
We get this character who calls himself Blue, on a planet that is pretty harsh. The sun burns people alive if they are caught in it at high noon, there is basically no vegetation and the people that actually live there are suffering and dying. Well the people of Earth don't care too much and consider these people (brown coats) to be terrorists and are at war with them. Now the interesting thing about this world (because everything else is relatively standard) is that people can sign up to die. The people that sign up to die get a life insurance premium, go to war against the brown coats and are intended to die. These people get a camera/implant behind their eyes (making them blue) to record the things that they see to broadcast to the people of Earth. These recordings are a highly rated television show.
The interesting thing about Blue (not his real name of course), is that he took the life insurance out on himself to give the money to his now ex-girlfriend. He considers himself a loser and thinks this is the best thing to do. While on the planet and while on his mission to die, he comes in the possession of a mysterious watch that he is tasked to return to base and to send it the previous owner's wife. While on his mission to return it, he is attacked and saved by a massive Gorilla that happens to have a gun. For some reason the Gorilla is protecting him.
Okay, that wasn't the BEST synopsis but it gives the general idea of what the story is based on. I left out a lot of details because I think everyone should buy this book. I can't even scratch the surface of all of the cool things that happened in the first two books and the art is something that has to be seen. Jeff Stokely captures the emotions of the characters so well and the environments are insanely vivid. The only thing that makes it better is Simon Spurrier's slightly insane and interesting writing that floats over the images.
Issue three was not an exception as to how amazing this book has been. I am feeling incredibly attached to "Blue" and am loving learning about the environment. There is a moment in here with some weird, zombie-esque guys riding bicycles that is just quirky, sick and engaging that I had to re-read that part of the issue to make sure I didn't miss anything. Also, the Gorilla rocks. I am having issues waiting between each issue because I want to see how this story plays out. Sadly, it is only going to be six issues so I am already halfway there but this ride is one that no one should miss.
Scarlet Spider #20
Writer: Chris Yost & Erik Burnham
Art: K-Studio's In-Hyuk Lee
Dream Sequence Art: Olliffe, Bit & Loughridge
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
It is hard to admit this but I was super happy to see that this book tied into Superior Spider-Man Team Up this month. Considering I have been reading a ton of Spider-Man books (retro-read of doom), I should really be concerned when I start seeing storylines being split between multiple books but I have always felt that the Spidey team up book existed to do exactly that.
Art: K-Studio's In-Hyuk Lee
Dream Sequence Art: Olliffe, Bit & Loughridge
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Price: $2.99
Release Date: August 14th, 2013
"Sibling Rivalry Part 2"
It is hard to admit this but I was super happy to see that this book tied into Superior Spider-Man Team Up this month. Considering I have been reading a ton of Spider-Man books (retro-read of doom), I should really be concerned when I start seeing storylines being split between multiple books but I have always felt that the Spidey team up book existed to do exactly that.
I think the best part of this little story is seeing Kaine interact with the new "Peter Parker". It was also incredibly fitting to see Jackal playing a massive role to the two of them interacting. I am always a tad nervous when there is a clone based story of any sort and especially when one key clone continues to show (a lady...not saying who) there is potential for bad storytelling.
With a few flashy fight scenes, some gorgeous artwork and a tight story, this issue was a must read for Scarlet Spider AND Spider-Man fans. I think there is a solid trickle down in at least Kaine's world of things that are to come after this book (more clones? his health?) and would be a good jumping on point for anyone who was nervous to start this title. I can't express enough, however, that you MUST read the team up book before this or you are bound to be lost.
Weekly pulls for 08/14/13
It has been months since I have done one of these weekly pull blogs and to be honest I am not really certain where to start. I know I usually go on some sort of tangent about something going on in the world of comics but I can't pull too much out of my back pocket.
Did anyone see Wolverine? No? Me either....
I will note that I am finally reading a book that is outside of the Marvel spectrum. I (luckily) followed my gut and started picking up Six-Gun Gorilla while I was on hiatus and have been very pleased with the work within. I will discuss that further when I review issue #3.
Oh well, since I am a bit lost for words I will just jump into my books for the week:
Scarlet Spider #20
Six-Gun Gorilla #3
Superior Spider-Man team Up #2
Uncanny X-Force #10
Uncanny X-Men #10
Wolverine and the X-Men #34
Notice the heavy amount of Spider-Man and X-Men. I think I may need to start re-evaluating my pulls to build up more variety. At this rate I do have a book or two teetering on the drop list so I may find space soon enough. Okay, enough of that...reviews will follow soon. Happy to be back everyone and happy reading!
Did anyone see Wolverine? No? Me either....
I will note that I am finally reading a book that is outside of the Marvel spectrum. I (luckily) followed my gut and started picking up Six-Gun Gorilla while I was on hiatus and have been very pleased with the work within. I will discuss that further when I review issue #3.
Oh well, since I am a bit lost for words I will just jump into my books for the week:
Scarlet Spider #20
Six-Gun Gorilla #3
Superior Spider-Man team Up #2
Uncanny X-Force #10
Uncanny X-Men #10
Wolverine and the X-Men #34
Notice the heavy amount of Spider-Man and X-Men. I think I may need to start re-evaluating my pulls to build up more variety. At this rate I do have a book or two teetering on the drop list so I may find space soon enough. Okay, enough of that...reviews will follow soon. Happy to be back everyone and happy reading!
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
The End of a Hiatus
After nearly two months of taking a break I think I am finally ready to start tackling this blog again. I am sorry to all of my readers out there that used my blog to find out if current comics are worth your time but I really believe that I needed the mental break.
Anyhow, now that my summer break is long over (I have been back to work for a month now) and that my brain seems to be firing on all cylinders, I am ready to start talking comics again! There is a lot going on out there and there is a lot that I missed discussing while away. I am going to briefly cover the things I remember happened while I was gone here in this entry.
First, Age of Ultron came to an incredibly underwhelming conclusion. I came into the event with relatively high hopes considering how awesome Ultron is but was let down to see he only ended up gracing around five-seven pages of the whole thing. I don't understand how an event can claim the name of a villain and in reality not truly use the villain. I get the concept that the world wouldn't be the way it was without Ultron, but that isn't why I decided the event was going to be worth my hard earned money. I don't even want to delve into the "tie-in" books for the event and their pointlessness. The last thing I want to say about the event is that they teased Angela as if she was going to actually have something to do with the event rather than just a page spread at the end as a ripple effect from all of the time traveling.
Second, my retro-read of Amazing Spider-Man is going insanely well. It is one of the things I focused heavily on while not writing the blog. I am (as of last night) on issue #577 of 700. I am so close I can taste it. After the painful slump in the 90's that basically forced readers to read every Spider-Man title out there (which I didn't, I am focused on ASM only) and contained The Clone Saga, the book really picked up. Peter Parker is such a relate-able character considering he is a superhero. I am also liking the way that the staff at Marvel is sprinkling in small bits of detail after Brand New Day to make insanely clear what moments from the web-head's history is still intact. I think I may do a total retro blog when I hit issue #700 or once I have totally caught up with Superior Spider-Man re-reads after. This has been a fun adventure regardless.
Third, Infinity has started and I am bowing out. I have spent WAY too much money on Marvel events in the past year and a half (AvX, AoU) that I think it is time for me to let one play all the way out before I consider purchase. Don't get me wrong, the idea that Thanos is out there whooping tail and I am missing it makes me sad, but I am not really reading any of the tie-in books and I know that I will be able to get my hands on the books through friends in the future. I also thought that after my ridiculous rants about events it would be hypocritical to purchase this one.
Finally, there are a lot of great comics out there and I have missed reviewing them. I have to say that I am still loving the X-books, digging the Spidey books (even the Superior Foes of Spider-Man) and have tackled on book outside of the Marvel Universe, Six Gun Gorilla. There is a lot to discuss in the coming weeks and I am happy to be back! Happy reading comic book fans!
Anyhow, now that my summer break is long over (I have been back to work for a month now) and that my brain seems to be firing on all cylinders, I am ready to start talking comics again! There is a lot going on out there and there is a lot that I missed discussing while away. I am going to briefly cover the things I remember happened while I was gone here in this entry.
First, Age of Ultron came to an incredibly underwhelming conclusion. I came into the event with relatively high hopes considering how awesome Ultron is but was let down to see he only ended up gracing around five-seven pages of the whole thing. I don't understand how an event can claim the name of a villain and in reality not truly use the villain. I get the concept that the world wouldn't be the way it was without Ultron, but that isn't why I decided the event was going to be worth my hard earned money. I don't even want to delve into the "tie-in" books for the event and their pointlessness. The last thing I want to say about the event is that they teased Angela as if she was going to actually have something to do with the event rather than just a page spread at the end as a ripple effect from all of the time traveling.
Second, my retro-read of Amazing Spider-Man is going insanely well. It is one of the things I focused heavily on while not writing the blog. I am (as of last night) on issue #577 of 700. I am so close I can taste it. After the painful slump in the 90's that basically forced readers to read every Spider-Man title out there (which I didn't, I am focused on ASM only) and contained The Clone Saga, the book really picked up. Peter Parker is such a relate-able character considering he is a superhero. I am also liking the way that the staff at Marvel is sprinkling in small bits of detail after Brand New Day to make insanely clear what moments from the web-head's history is still intact. I think I may do a total retro blog when I hit issue #700 or once I have totally caught up with Superior Spider-Man re-reads after. This has been a fun adventure regardless.
Third, Infinity has started and I am bowing out. I have spent WAY too much money on Marvel events in the past year and a half (AvX, AoU) that I think it is time for me to let one play all the way out before I consider purchase. Don't get me wrong, the idea that Thanos is out there whooping tail and I am missing it makes me sad, but I am not really reading any of the tie-in books and I know that I will be able to get my hands on the books through friends in the future. I also thought that after my ridiculous rants about events it would be hypocritical to purchase this one.
Finally, there are a lot of great comics out there and I have missed reviewing them. I have to say that I am still loving the X-books, digging the Spidey books (even the Superior Foes of Spider-Man) and have tackled on book outside of the Marvel Universe, Six Gun Gorilla. There is a lot to discuss in the coming weeks and I am happy to be back! Happy reading comic book fans!
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