Comic Book Journal

IDW publishing is turning out to be quite a good publisher. They’re already nailed down some pretty good liscenses and Angel:After the Fall is no exception. First off, I’m a diehard Buffy fan, but never got too much into Angel. I saw maybe two episodes of the tv show and read only a couple books before. So what’s the point? You do not have to be a fan of the series to enjoy this book. The story, plot, and pacing is exceptional. Lynch’s writing skills are showcased as the characterization and dialogue from the leading cast are dead on (especially Spike). The artwork is equally as gorgeous and the sketchy sytle, combined with dark, heavy linework sets the tone for the end of all things very nicely. While this is number fourteen, and I feel that I lost most of the storyline and jumped in at a bad point for new readers, it’s involving. I’d have to give this book a solid seven out of ten. Definitely check out this issue, then wait for IDW to lanuch the TPB of the series. I’m sure it’ll be worth every dollar. As a rule, I generally don’t like angsty vampires, but if you want to check out even more fangy goodness or see why the vampire genre should be staked in the proverbial heart check out http://www.toybender.com/twilight-ruins-toys-like-it-does-vampire-books-and-flicks/.

Well, I’m just finished reading a title I think could in the running for worst of 2008. The Ambush Bug limited series #4 of 6. Sigh. Let’s see where do we begin? Hmm. Let me start by saying ( to much probable disapproval) Keith Giffen’s fifteen minutes of fame are up. They ended with Lobo, which in turn should have been the end of comic books making fun of themselves. I don’t like tongue-in-cheek stories, which could be the reason I didn’t like this issue in particular. I also don’t like the genre poking fun at the medium itself or the creators. I think enough “mainstream” critics and reviewers already simplify the material enough and turn new readers away from established titles. So there’s my two sense on that particular topic. If you enjoy this type of story then Ambush Bug might just be for you. I thought the storyiine was weak, and extremely silly and also over-the-top. On the plus side, however, the art did match the tone and pacing of the story well and the colorist, in particular should be commended for giving the issue that gooey pulp flavor, which is unusual to see in a quite modern work. All in all, I’m giving this book a five out of ten. One word can describe it. Mediocre. For some folks who know things about real life bugs check on the science and nature blogs at http://www.dailysciencedose.com/water-water-not-anywhere-nor-any-drop-to-drinkin-2050/.

Matt Fraction and Terry Dodson are doing spectactular things in the Marvel Universe. With their run on Uncanny X-Men they are weaving the old guard of the X-Mythos and incorporating it into the new futuristic storylines and a beautiful tapestry is starting to unfold. Following the aftermath of the Mutant X saga, the Hellfire club has been reborn and is now the Hellfire Cult. There is still hope for mutantkind with the one mutant birth. Nightcrawler is a bit of a mystic priest and Colossus has his own crosses to bear. The relationship between Emma Frost and Scott Summers, takes a turn for the worst as secrets emerge that will tear them apart. It’s just good pure drama and it makes for a fun, quick read that leaves you wanting more. Dodson’s art is also dead on point as he excels at the difficult task of conveying characters emotions when they are not speaking directly to each other and the atmosphere is tense and the pacing is perfect. I’ll end by saying in this issue my favorite part was the exchange via psychic speak between Emma and Scott as she steps into his psyche. Now if you want to see how a real psychic operates hope on over to Paul’s blog at Toybender and check out the old posts from his toy psychic days. It’s at : http://www.toybender.com/toy-psychic-the-future-of-halo-collectibles/

usagi fun

I don’t think I have ever officially reviewed an issue of Usagi Yojimbo. But I figured why not? So now is the time. I had extremely high expectations from the masterful Stan Sakai, and I was not disappointed. Now I confess, I am not what you would consider a history buff, I don’t know much about Samuri, ninjas, or feudal Japan; but I do know a great story, and this is a classic example of pure storytelling. Sakai does, with simple line drawings, and black and white panels, what most creators need glossy paper, high art coloring, and a team of production designers to create. This simple tale of a beggar who proves to be more than he seems, not only makes you feel warm after reading, but also is a great parable. After all, you never know who the beggar on the corner could really be. This book is a buy and Dark Horse, again, is cranking out work from some of the best creators in the industry. As a publisher this will lead to success, even in tough economic times. People should invest in this company’s quality. On a scale of one to ten, This is definitely a ten. Buy this book, then buy back issues and catch up on this truly wonderful series.

The truth is out there, or should I say at Wildstorm. I was highly anticipating the release of the X-Files #1 from Wildstorm, as I was a HUGE fan of the show and also a monthly reader of the Topps series a few years back. So how do you compare oranges to oranges? Why their taste of course. See, the Topps series, despite its honest attempts to match the atmosphere of the show, always seemed to fall flat, with the art being at times goofy and the writing to seem forced. The Wildstorm series is quite the opposite. From opening “credits” to ending cliffhanger Spotnitz’s writing is dead on, as it should be since he worked on the series. The art is equally matched, though. This was a pleasant surprise. From the deadpan expressions of Mulder, to the annoyed looks from Skinner, and even the dead on accuracy of the Lone Gunmen (see below), it was a joy to read. I want to believe in this series. And this is a good start for anyone, whether a fan of the show or not. This could possibly be the title that launches Wildstorm back into the limelight of the comics world and also back into the top sellers list. I’m anxious to see how this one fares. One my scale I’d give this one a solid 9 of 10. This one’s a buy. Also if you want to see the trailer for the newly-released movie sequel, hop on over to http://www.popculturebuzz.com/the-x-files-i-want-to-believe-movie-trailer-is-awesome/