Comic Book Journal

I haven’t checked up on Marvel’s first family for a while, so I thought I’d give it a try. I’m not really a Fantastic Four fan, blame Jack Kirby for that, but I was pleasantly surprised by this issue, even though absolutely nothing happened. That’s right, there was much foreshadowing, but no major events, nor a recognizable bad guy in the bunch. The collective Reed squad decide to take a trip to Mr. Fantastic’s cousin’s home in Scotland for a little rest and relaxation on Christmas. The kids play with power jet suits, Franklin designs helicopters, Ben Grimm complains about the poor television reception, and oh yeah, some neighbors bury some pets in a local cemetery and there’s a flashback about eating some woman’s baby twenty-five years ago. What I liked about the ‘nothingness’ in this issue, was Mark Millar’s plotting left room for a real sense that’s something is horribly amiss in the perfection of this quaint town. He makes this issue feel like, “Happy Holidays: the Fantastic Four visit the town from The Lottery.” The artwork was very colorful, bright, clean, and surprisingly detailed for a Marvel work, which was a nice surprise as well. The inks were a little heavy though in spots, and I almost feel like the colors took away from the balance between light and shadow at times. All in all I’d give this issue a solid seven out of ten, it’s an easy quick read, but you could easily just wait for it to be it in the collected trade paperback also. For more on Marvel, see my previous post at www.comicbookjournal.net/uncanny X-Men

It’s rare that I can find a preview that I can’t enjoy and I’m sorry to say this is one of them. Usually I enjoy this sort of other-worldly, Vertigo-esque title, but I found this title to be a bit flat. The plot is, I hate to say it typical, with a hero/heroine, demon/angel, coming to earth on a quest to find someone/something from the past, who is now perhaps, inhabiting someone/something else’s body. There’s many unknowns here and that’s my main problem with the story, there’s not enough of an introduction for me to like any of the characters or become attached to them, or their plights. Granted, this is only a preview with little room for narrative, but there’s nothing here that made me want to pick up the first issue. The artwork is of the usual indie fair also I’m afraid. There’s bold lines, sketchy backgrounds, and lack of depth and detail. Again there was never a “wow” moment with the artwork. The only bright spot in the art was the coloring. The muted tones and lack of brightness did add a bit of gloomy atmosphere to the story and added a hint of richness to the overall art, which makes me think the story might have looked far better as a painted graphic novel rather than single issues. Overall I’d have to give this one a lousy five out of ten, it was a nice attempt that fell flat on its face. I’d recommend this only to die hard fans of J.M.’s. As always for more reviews check out www.comicbookjournal.net/reviews.

I’m still believing in this series. X-Files #4, finishes up an arc involving Wilson Chan, a businessman, with some dark links to his heritage and a covert dynasty still in operation. For a past issue review see my post at http://www.comicbookjournal.net/i-want-to-believe/. This series has serious potential to be one of the biggest sleeper hits of 2009. I’m not just saying this as an X-Files fan, but also as a comic book fan, and someone who has a taste for great fiction. The team of Wolfman and Denham are hot. Marv Wolfman’s plot connected all the dots on this issue as his characterizations are true to the series and he ties up all loose ends in the mystery as well, without relying on a deux-ex-machina to just end the plot without making any explanations. Denham’s pencils are fantastic and he, unlike, some previous artists on the Topps series from a few years back, actual draws the likeness of both Scully and Mulder extremely well. It is clear he takes his time with the pencils and adds his own twist using different “camera” angles to make his storytelling dynamic and dramatic. Wildstorm has a hit in the making with this series, which really has limitless possibilities in dealing with a television universe, that was practically limitless as well. Now, this series will not appeal to fans of the traditional superhero book. There are no flashy costumes, no over-the-top evil-doers, or even any mention of saving the world. I’d recommend this for any Dark Horse or Vertigo fan. Since it won’t appeal to everyone, I’d have to give this book a nine out of ten, the only flaw really, is some readers who have never viewed the series or like this type of story might feel a little out of the loop.

This annual was, in a word, different. I have never thought of Namor being an item with Emma Frost, but lo and behold here it is. The White Queen, manipulative as ever, attempts to position herself as queen of the earth, underworld, and now the sea as she brings Prince Namor into the depths of the Hellfire Club. I am a Hellfire Club fan from way back and this latest tale, was different to say the least, but even with all the atmosphere still seemed to lack that certain refreshment that keeps me reading Uncanny on a consistent basis. See my previous post at www.comicbookjournal.net/Uncanny X-Men # 506. What I liked most about this book was the artwork the visuals, especially toward the middle of the book had a kind of Silver Age vibe I enjoyed with the fine inking and shadowed line work with several, smaller inset panels. Also atmosphere was plentiful and the ocean, beach, Hellfire club, and cities actually had depth. I was impressed with the art. If you’re looked for Japanese inspired, magna-influenced art look elsewhere, this definitely is not for you. On a whole I had a few issues with the technicalities of the plot, Tony Stark appeared for about five minutes then wasn’t spoken of again. Emma and Namor seem to have this long-standing relationship and no history of them being an item is revealed. Also, the motivation for Emma’s hatred of Shaw and dismissing of Cyclops is never explained, just simply glossed over as part of her “Dark Reign.” Other than a few sticky plot points, I’d give this book a seven out a ten. It’s still enjoyable, even if it’s a little dark and mysterious.

Why is the X-Men still a top seller after all the years? I think this issue is a prime example of why the Marvel-style script works. The plot is filled with page after page of hooks which makes this issue a page-turner and an easy read. Matt Fraction has hit his stride and with Terry Dodson along for the artwork, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more satisfying and compelling read. The plot is practically flawless and immediately made me want to not only pick up the next issue, but also check out some back issues for more background and the current situation. The team dynamic between the characters is back, and the X-Men, aren’t just mutants globetrotting haphazardly anymore, they are serving a purpose in society once more. The artwork is vivid and detailed, and largely original, with one minor exception pictured here.

Anyone think it resembles Godzilla too much?

I’m not complaining about the artwork in whole as Dodson is a fantastic storyteller. He uses staggering panel sizes and varying page layouts to keep the reader involved in each page. The characters are expressive in detail, even with Cyclops, head wear masking his eyes and Emma is always portrayed as beautiful, but deadly. Anyway this is an enjoyable read that’s refreshing and I give this book a solid eight out of ten. For more to come check out of course, www.comicbookjournal.net/reviews

This issue is the perfect prequel for the Battle for the Cowl saga. Now I confess I am not the biggest Batman fan, with that being said, understand I am stepping outside of my comfort zone and actually recommending this issue. The Batman gets his own “Funeral for a Friend treatment in this issue that leads up to the question, “what now?” Let me start by saying, this is not an unusual plot twist. Batman has died before, there have been other characters take up the mantle of the bat before. So what makes this different? Hopefully DC will let Bruce finally rest in peace and stay dead, but I fear that will not be. Anyway this issue was beautifully written and has a certain nostalgia to it, and Andy Kubert’s artwork only enhances the story. If Kubert drew every single issue of Batman, and it was as poetic and well done as this, I’d probably be more of a Bat-fan. The detail in the backgrounds and soft touches to the penciling make this book look more like a Victorian-era novel than comic book and it works. On the whole, I’d give this issue a solid nine out of ten, if you read any Batman book this year, this would be my pick. Oh, and just for fun I’ll be reviewing the Battle for the Cowl as well, despite my better judgement. Be sure to check out www.comicbookjournal.net/reviews for the latest.

I just finished reading G.I. Joe Origins #1 by IDW and I have to say I was impressed. This origin special (Snake Eyes) was an entertaining read for anyone. The storyline and memorable characterization drew me into the storyline, and for someone who doesn’t necessarily like action comics that’s remarkable. This is the perfect tie-in to the new G.I. Joe movie that’s coming soon and this is a great “jumping on” point for new readers. The story ended with a great hook, which made me actually want to discover the rest of the Joes’ origins, which I didn’t really care too much before, and the artwork was excellent. What I liked most about the artwork, is it was not over simplified and the characters did not become caricatures. There was so much detail in the interior pages and backgrounds you could almost feel the heat from the bullets and read Duke’s dogtag. IDW, I feel, will be a force to be reckoned with in the comics industry within the next year, and I’m sure will bring great new talent to some old classic series’. On a scale of one to ten I’d give this book an eight out of ten, great plot, but a little heavy-handed on the action. Oh, and when the movie comes out this fan girl will be there with the review. For more great comic book reviews check out www.comicbookjournal.net/reviews. That’s an order!

I finally went to go see Watchmen and the end is nigh because the movie is better than the graphic novel. Now, don’t get me wrong the graphic novel was groundbreaking in numerous ways, but I never thought it would be the be-all-end-all of narrative storytelling in the industry. Yes, it was long and I think probably about twenty minutes could have been cut out without giving up any essential story, but it was almost three solid hours of pure engagement. What I liked most about the film, is even though it was a wonderful retelling Zach Snyder’s scene selection. He found a way to incorporate all the irony and emotion from Moore’s story into film and keep me engaged throughout. Sure, some purists will hate the flick because of the altered ending, but come on, do we really have to see the monster to get the point? Snyder trusts his audience will make the leap and form their own conclusions concerning the “monster” that society itself has become.

Let’s be clear, the film would not have worked it bigger A-listers had been cast as any of the characters. These actors and actresses did an excellent job and their performances could be oscar fodder. They did not overact and did a solid job interpreting the material. That’s what makes Watchmen as a film work. They do not just play men and women in capes and suits, they really internalize the written word and each did a fantastic job bringing life to these ‘everyman’ heroes.

Bear in mind, though this is not a movie to take the children too. Just because there are costumed heroes, does not mean this is an all-ages film. This movie, as well as the graphic novel, is intended for an adult audience only.

Here’s the bottom line: Watchmen is an extraordinary film of substance, but die hard purists and Moore followers might not enjoy it as much. On a scale of one to ten I’d give this one a solid nine and a half of ten. Go see this movie not because it’s comic book related, but because the story is still culturally important. For more comments on the movie see the prequel to this post at http://www.comicbookjournal.net/who-watches-the-watchmen-2/

Alright kiddos, let’s have some old-fashioned family fun, the Peter Parker way. This book is not light at one hundred and four pages, but it is light-hearted. Think of this as sort of an Archie meets Spider-Man compilation. Now it does have some good writers on board, but as far as the art goes it’s awful. At 3.99 it is, however, a bargain and if you have little ones they would probably like the variety of the artwork and stories, but if you’re a die hard Spiderman junkie, you’ll probably want to pass up this issue. The only story, in my opinion, worth the cover cost is the two back-up reprints of Amazing Spiderman #s 97 and 98, which features a couple of nice Stan Lee/ Gil Kane collaborations. The former of the two is clearly a drug-awareness issue as the Goblin goes a little crazy after popping some pills. While it’s not as in-your-face as the Green Lantern/Green Arrow/Speedy stories, it does send a positive message to the youngsters who might be reading. One thing is certain, I applaud Marvel for trying to cram as much entertainment as possible into the book, making it very possible for comics to be affordable in tough times, the downside is it’s mainly for the younger, say 8-12 market. I’d have to give this book a solid six out of ten. This is a good, quick read and cheap too! For past reviews of Spiderman issues see my past posts right here at www.comicbookjournal.net just search for Spiderman.

Let the debate begin. Let me clarify I have not watched The Watchmen yet. Why? Fear. Nothing but unabashed fear that it will be nearly three hours of my life wasted. From the trailers I believe I might be right. I have, however, taken some time to look at a different type of adaptation: The Watchmen motion comic. At first I was intrigued. I thought why this is genius why haven’t more companies authorized this type of media onslaught yet. Then as the story progressed, I realized why. Comic books are not meant to be animated, especially in this narrative story. Maybe it would have been better for DC just to bite the bullet and let some anime company buy the rights and make a feature-length movie. I’m not saying the motion comic was entirely bad, it was an original twist on an old concept but it will never, I repeat, never replace the tried and true method of actually reading a comic book, or if you prefer, graphic novel. The voice acting was just ok, but the music was predictable and somewhat of a distraction. I like to create my own soundtrack in my head when reading a comic book. In short, if you’re really bored and have few hours to kill go ahead and watch it, otherwise just pretend you did. I’d give the motion comic a five out of ten. To read the official movie review see http://www.popculturebuzz.com/movie-review-watchmen/