Star Wars: Life Day #1
Written by Cavan Scott, Justina Ireland, Steve Orlando, Houser
Art by Ivan Fiorelli, Georges Jeanty ,Paul Fry, Kei Zama
Published by Marvel Comics
Don’t let the title deter you. This is a fun, well executed issue. A collection of short stories that celebrates what has become a phenomenon derived from Star Wars’ darkest hour: The Star Wars Holiday Special, Life Day.
Set after the events of Return of the Jedi, Han reflects on his friendship with Chewbacca while on a mission during this important Wookiee holiday. A reminder to us all that family and tradition is what we all have in common and is what brings us all together.
My biggest compliment is the lack of spoonfeeding on behalf of the writers. Not a word wasted complemented with on-point imagery that takes us inside Han Solo’s head when appropriate. (– Anthony Sword)
Grade: A
Action Comics #1037
Written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson; Art by Miguel Mendonca
Published by DC Comics
Action Comics really has heated up over the course of the last year! Writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson is doing the work of his career on this title. There is a lot of action and also a lot of character. I have to say that this book is only seemingly getting better with each passing issue and I am totally loving it.
Superman is on Warworld ready to take on the new Mongul!
But this is a Superman that is weaker than normal. Together with the Authority, he still takes the fight to Mongul! This is an action packed issue. It is basically a brawl on Warworld and it is fantastically drawn by Miguel Mendonca. All in all, this is another excellent issue of this series. (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: A
House of Slaughter #2
Written by James Tynion IV, Tate Brombal; Art by Wether Dell’Edera, Chris Shehan
Published by BOOM! Studios
Most spin off series are never as good as the series that it originates from. This one is. It pays tribute to the original series but it is totally it’s own thing. The story here is smart and the whole mythology that the creators have come up with is pretty perfect indeed.
This issue focuses on Jace Boucher. It shows us his training in the House of Slaughter and all of the various hoops that he has to jump to be a part of it. It is very intriguing and we do learn a bit more about this world. It is very well designed to be sure. The story is good and the artwork is fantastic. You can’t ask for more than that! (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: A
Vinyl #6
Written by Doug Wagner; Art by Daniel Hillyard
Published by Image Comics
This has been a smarter series than the usual fare. I love the twists and turns that the creative team have come up with. It is almost a shame as this book was great fun. I had no idea that it would end like this so it was a really nice surprise to read through and through.
This issue is literally just a fight between Walter and Madeline. It is no holds barred and it is quite brutal. One or both may not make it to the end. I have to say it is a pretty perfect wrap up to the whole thing. The story is smart and the artwork is pretty perfect. Well done overall. (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: B+
Task Force Z #2
Written by Matthew Rosenberg; Art by Eddy Barrows
Published by DC Comics
The first issue of this series was quite a trip. It was kind of like reading the Suicide Squad written by a deranged lunatic. And hey, I don’t mind that all. The first issue ended in quite a bloodbath and this issue picks right up from that. It also goes into some truly unexpected places.
The Red Hood is rethinking his strategy after last issue. He has an extremely volatile team and he has to figure out a way to make them function. That actually provides much harder than he originally thought. Madness ensues from there. The story is fun and the art by Eddy Barrows is awesome. I am having fun with this for sure. (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: B+
Batman: Reptilian #6
Written by Garth Ennis; Art by Liam Sharp
Published by DC Comics
This series has been the subject of some real controversy lately of how Batman treats his “victims.” I really enjoyed the different take on Batman but I can see what the critics mean. It is a Black Label book but I have to say that, while I enjoyed it as a whole, maybe writer Garth Ennis just doesn’t like Batman? It shows a lot here.
This final issue shows us Batman’s final fight against the Reptilian creature. It is a less than satisfying ending and it is a bit abrupt. The whole story went a bit fast and not as well paced as it should have been, having read all the issues now. Oh, well. The art by Liam Sharp is the best of his career here. It evokes the Dave Mckean art in the Arkham Asylum graphic novel. It’s seriously that good. (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: B+
Aquaman/Green Arrow: Deep Target #2
Written by Brandon Thomas; Art By Ronan Cliquet
Published by DC Comics
This is a pretty okay series. It’s not going to change the world or anything, but it does have some nice qualities to it. It is pretty fun to see two heroes who normally don’t team up get together. The first issue was pretty decent and this one picks up right where that one left off.
Aquaman and Green Arrow find themselves in an altered timeline as this issue begins. It is fun to see all of the changes that are in this story. They are trying to find out who is responsible. But are they too late? The story by Brandon Thomas is okay and the art by Ronan Cliquet is good. Overall, this isn’t too bad. (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: B
Night of The Ghoul #2
Written by Scott Snyder; Art by Francesco Francavilla
Published by comiXology
Man, it is truly awesome to see these two powerhouse creators still working with each other. This truly horrific comic has a lot going for it. I love how it references the old film Night of the Ghoul into it’s main plot line. The whole story kind of has a butterfly effect from that reference that is very intriguing to say the least.
It’s 1918 and America is celebrating now that the Great War has ended. But what have the soldiers brought back with them? Can it be stopped? We get to see a bit more of a glimpse of this horrifying thing and it is gruesome. The script by Snyder is well done and the art by Francavilla is something else. This is a strong issue for sure! (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: A
Joy Operations #1
Written by Brian Michael Bendis; Art by Stephen Byrne
Published by Dark Horse Comics
I have to say that I am very excited to see writer Brian Michael Bendis working at Dark Horse Comics. His DC Comics work was less than inspired. He has always been a creative force, so I was hoping for something more with his work here. Luckily, this debit issue is really good and it feels like something special from Bendis.
This book takes place 55 years from now. We are introduced to the character of Joy. She is a special agent of the Jonando Trust. Joy is the person who rights all of the wrongs committed against the trust. That is, until one day she gets a voice in her head to do otherwise. This book becomes a fun and exciting comic quite quickly from that point. The script from Bendis is a joy and the artwork by Byrne is fantastic. I am looking forward to seeing where this goes from here. (– Lenny Schwartz)
Grade: A
Radiant Black #10
Written by Kyle Higgins; Art by Marcelo Costa
Published by Image Comics
“Truth is in existence” we learn as Marshall is on a trip with a possibility of saving his best friend Nathan.
“Truth is in existence” is just repeated over and over again. As the first half of this comic feels like you’re watching a friend get trippy while you’re totally sober. They’re tripping the light fantastic while you just want to go home. It really left this reader a bit impatient.
But the last half features a reunion that makes it all almost worth it. Two friends reunited and we get the feeling that Marshall is a better hero for it.
With a vibe that felt self indulgent, this issue doesn’t totally work. But if you’ve been along for the ride it’s an integral part of the journey. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade: C+
Checkmate #6
Written by Brian Michael Bendis; Art by Alex Maleev
Published by DC Comics
With a couple of more twist and turns, Checkmate heads into its final chapter.
If you felt as if this book was a bit repetitive or lack movement, this last issue jams in a lot. Almost too much. Remember when COVID hit and a bunch of shows had to rush or change scripts in anticipation of a shut down. Checkmate has that same feel.
I enjoyed Checkmate overall. This series seems to be the most comfortable work I have seen from Bendis while at DC. His dialogue, mood, and pacing here has been just right. It doesn’t hurt that he has one of his long time artist in Alex Maleev.
This last issue just suffered from a bit of a rush though. Still entertaining though. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade: B-
DC vs Vampires #2
Written by James Tynion IV and Matthew Rosenberg; Art by Otto Schmidt
Published by DC Comics
I started this series with low expectations. Two issues in and it’s a pleasant surprise. I mean, as pleasant as a blood thirsty vampire Hal Jordan could be.
This second issue is setting up which of our favorite heroes have been turned. While Batman gathers his family for the rare “bright light of day” meeting. While Hal Jordan aims to stop the hero who could become the most destructive vampire.
It’s horror, with a dash of humor, but this book goes to dark places. It’s not quite “Black Label” but close. Yet it’s oddly fun. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade: A
Deathstroke Inc #3
Written by Josh Williamson; Art by Howard Porter
Published by DC Comics
This series feels oddly forgettable. Not bad that you’ll hate it, but not good enough that you’d recommend or read it again.
Deathstroke and Black Canary are after Cheetah, but Deathstroke has to go into a story via the Queen of Fables to find her. Meanwhile, we find that the organization called T.R.U.S.T. Is more than it seems.
Deathstroke’s battle doesn’t move the meter for me. I’ve enjoyed Porter’s work previously but here it comes off as too sloppy or rushed.
If you can’t trust TRUST, who can you trust? (–Alex Vaello)
Grade: C+
Detective Comics #1045
Written by Mariko Tamaki; Art by Dan Mora
Published by DC Comics
Detective Comics isn’t necessarily breaking the mold. But it’s a well built story with a satisfying conclusion.
Mora’s art and Tamaki’s script give us a decent urban monster tale, while setting up the future for DC universe’s most interesting mayor. Most Gotham City Mayor’s are written as either rabidly anti Batman or overwhelmingly corrupt. Mayor Nakano is a different breed, and I hope we get to see more.
The back up tale features Arkham Tower. The only thing worse than rebuilding Arkham Asylum is making it into a mid city tower. David Lapham’s art is stylish and moody, but I still think rebuilding Arkham feels foolish. A better story would make it make sense. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade: B+
Robin #8
Written by Joshua Williamson; Art by Gleb Melnikov, Max Dunbar
Published by DC Comics
Eight issues in and this feels like a storyline that could have been wrapped up in 5 issues. At the most.
Damian Wayne is a character that can be fresh and fun. I’m glad that Connor Hawke has been reintroduced. The moments between he and Damian have been highlights.
But Robin versus C Listers isn’t an interesting proposition. Robin as a series is feeling a bit flat right now. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade: C
Superman ‘78 #4
Written by Robert Venditti; Art by Wilfredo Torres
Published by DC Comics
Luthor’s plan comes to light as Krypton lives. And Brainiac is not done with Metropolis.
I genuinely wonder how this series plays for someone who has no experience with this iteration of Superman. As for me, this series continues to click.
The Lois and Superman are a true pair. Romantic but humorous “Superman, it’s really you. Why’d you change your hair?”
Jor El and Lex Luthor are just two mad scientists, and I’d love to see that juxtaposition play out. But there’s a lot going on with Brainiac.
Superman ‘78 is quite a ride. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade : A
Harley Quinn #9
Written by Stephanie Phillips; Art by Riley Rossmo
Published by DC Comics
This story feels slightly adjacent but not beholden to Harley Quinn. To its credit, this series places Harley in the DC Universe without it being overly reliant on that aspect.
Stephanie Phillips has a fun feel for Harley and the dynamic between Harley and Poison Ivy. Riley Rossmo’s work is cartoonish but not overly silly.
This book has a fun energy and vibe. Some of Harley’s villains have been lackluster. But overall, a good book and a fun issue. (–Alex Vaello)
Grade B
Wonder Woman: Black and Gold #6
Written by Marguerite Sauvage, Liam Sharp, Michael W. Conrad, Christos Gage, Dr. Sheena Howard;
Art by Marguerite Sauvage, Liam Sharp, Noah Bailey, Kevin Maguire, Jamal Campbell
Published by DC Comics
One of the more difficult things about writing Wonder Woman may be when she is depiction as an angel among us. Not simply the immortal demigod she is and the full-power godhood she is destined to attain, but an angel – an agent of shining, untouchable virtue.
Several stories in this latest issue of the anthology series depict Diana as a guardian angel, but they also infuse that angelic quality with some edges. This angel is one of empathetic diplomacy, yes, but also of swift, righteous violence when necessary. Savage’s “Role Model,” and “A Lesson in Truth” by Conrad and Bailey, best capture those notes in the character by connecting Wonder Woman to interactions with real people. I almost called them everyday people, but they are people of extraordinary reach whether defended by Wonder Woman or emboldened to find their greatness.
Those were my favorite stories in this issue, and not really connected to her superhero lore in much of any significant way. The remaining stories don’t hit on that level, and that’s OK. “Attack of the 50-Foot Wonder Woman” gives Gage room for a self-aware Giganta to understand what actually makes Wonder Woman great while Maguire clearly has a ball drawing this tale, and “Fresh Air in Philly” breathes more life into Nubia and Diana’s sisterly rivalry, thanks to Howard and Campbell. Sharp’s “The Prophet” falls flat for me as a story, but Sharp’s art is breathtakingly fantastical. ( – Marvin Pittman)
What’s the Furthest Place From Here? #1
Written by Matthew Rosenburg; Art by Tyler Boss
Published by Image Comics
What places do you think of when asked about imagining a post-apocalyptic world?
We’ve seen so many of them in our recent fiction: The Walking Dead, Mad Max: Fury Road, Last Man on Earth, 28 Days Later, I Am Legend, Y: The Last Man, The 100, and so on. But did you ever see the end of society from the ruins of a record store with a gang of teenagers and no adults? In this world, the vinyl record you pick becomes your identity, the artifact of who you are when you “grow old” and leave the gang for whatever else is out there.
It’s an intriguing story so far meeting the kids in the Academy: Sid, Slug, Oberon, Alabama and Prufrock. Amid sudden violence of gang skirmishes, and a very pregnant Sid who seems not to know she’s pregnant, an old friend reappears and we also see the mysterious Strangers who are somehow connected to the state of the kids’ world. Boss’ art comes from the David Mazzuccelli school of slight detail on the people, heavy detailing on the backgrounds, and the stylized colors add to the dread and bleakness of these dumb, lost souls. I didn’t get the benefit of listening to the limited vinyl records being released along with the issues, but crank up your punk playlists and get lost within this triple-sized issue. ( – Marvin Pittman)
Black Panther #1
Written by John Ridley; Art by Juann Cabal
Published by Marvel Comics
Marvel follows up famed author Ta-Nehisi Coates’ run on T’Challa by pulling out another set of big guns with John Ridley.
Coates took T’Challa on a journey by which Wakanda was transformed into its first ever parliamentary government, while developing Wakanda as an idea that grew from a nation to an empire across the stars, and back again. Ridley has the unenviable task of balancing all of this, and it shows in how T’Challa himself chafes as king (and former solitary decision-maker) under governmental debates while also leading the Avengers.
T’Challa may be a virtuous man, but he is an imperious one and a calculating one who has plans within plans to protect Wakanda. This time, Wakandan sleeper agents are being targeted by unknown assassins, and it’s sure to unleash many more secrets for the Black Panther. Or at least I hope so, because the “agents have been made” plot device has gotten pretty old post-Skyfall. But here Ridley focuses that trick through T’Challa’s love of secrecy and trouble with trust. Cabal’s art is detailed, cinematic and fluid. ( – Marvin Pittman)
Hulk #1
Written by Donny Cates; Art by Ryan Ottley
Published by Marvel Comics
I won’t lie – I was kinda lost with this one. I haven’t followed any Hulk storylines in the past few years apart from the She-Hulk series.
So all I knew was that at one point Bruce Banner was killed by Thanos. But now he’s back, and there was an Immortal Hulk run in which a third Yellow Hulk personality emerged and a long meditation on how the Hulk cannot die no matter how much Banner may try to banish him. So where is there left to go with the Hulk? Well, Cates writes, what if the person to fear isn’t the Hulk, but Banner the mad scientist? Best to flip things on their head! And this time, Banner has fractured his psyche into three parts, allowing for Banner to pilot the Hulk’s nanotech-enhanced body while trapping the mind of Hulk in a “mind palace” fighting an endless string of tanks and helicopters.
What does all this mean? I don’t know. My mind hurts just conceptualizing all that. But you’re here for Ottley, whose vicious and gory fight scenes got people going with Invincible. He does not disappoint here, with a brutal centerpiece fight between Hulk and Iron Man in the Hulkbuster armor. Frank Martin’s multihued color work really makes Ottley’s artwork pop, especially in the fight scene showing to what lengths Banner is committed to victory combined with Hulk’s indestructible body. ( – Marvin Pittman)
Hawkeye: Kate Bishop #1
Written by Marieke Nijkamp; Art by Enid Balám
Published by Marvel Comics
With Kate Bishop about to make her MCU debut in the Hawkeye TV show, the Clint Barton protégé was due to reappear with her own solo title.
I haven’t read of Bishop’s exploits since the Matt Fraction and David Aja’s groundbreaking 22-issue Hawkeye comic began nearly 10 years ago. So it’s nice to return to the snarky Bishop, all of her misadventures in private-eye superheroing, and fan favorite Lucky the dog. Fraction so clearly set the tone for Kate Bishop that Nijkamp’s story felt like it jumped right from the ones I remember, which may be a good thing or a bad thing if the character hasn’t evolved much since then.
Balám draws such good blow-by-blow action, and the intriguing case of Bishop’s sister calling about a mysterious, possibly hypnotic evildoings at a creepy mansion spa for the wealthy just begs to be explored further. What a sticky, fun read. ( – Marvin Pittman)
The Flash #776
Written by Jeremy Adams; Art by Fernando Pasarin
Published by DC Comics
Sometimes reading superhero comics can be a real “oh this again” experience. There’s nothing new under the sun. I’m sure if I go far enough, I’ll find another book that experiments with storytelling the way this issue does. But it’s been a while since I’ve experienced the gleeful fun from that this issue provides.
I hesitate to share too much of the plot. In short Dr Fate and The Flash are trapped in a dimension. They help they need comes from the most unexpected of sources. This issue grabs and demands the reader’s attention and does not let go. I don’t generally buy original art but the second page is quite the attention grabber
Jeremy Adams has spent the last few issues rebuilding Wally West. This issue is where you feel this creative team cut loose.
The Flash #776 could easily be read on its own. It’s a blast that I hope gets the attention it deserves. (– Alex Vaello)
Grade: A+
