Comic Book Journal

With the release of The Incredible Hulk Marvel Studios has cemented its place within Hollywood as a major contender and also silenced critics who thought that one superhero blockbuster was not possible–yet alone two back to back. Riding the success of Iron Man, the Hulk, whether loathed or loved was at least a financial windfall for Marvel who plans to release more titles in the future with the possibility of Captain America. The Hulk has already made over 54.5 million dollars in its first week. So DC now has to up the ante to compete with Marvel in film. The release of The Dark Knight on July 18th is a good starting point.

So why are comic book movies so compelling and successful this summer. I think that has to do more with the state of the nation than stories alone. Sure, they are all fairly entertaining, but can you think of any other vacation day that you spend less than going to the movies? With gas prices skyrocketing no one is going anywhere, The movies are local, affordable, and does provide that sense of escape that travel often does. What else are portable, affordable, and provides entertainment and escapism–comic books. Comic books plus movies equals summer vacation family fun that’s entertaining and inexpensive. Now is the time for the industry to really boom again and if publishers can capitalize on the market at this time, they could rebuild a loyal fan base for generations to come.

That’s this blogger’s view. With the economy being in its current state, it’s important for everyone to try to contribute to the health of the environment to use less expensive fuel and maintain the health of the planet. That’s why I’m going to have a bit of a contest. I have a comic book collection. I do not read all the titles I have every day. So I’m looking for some inventive ways to recycle my old comics. For the person who can come up with the most creative and original way to recycle or use old comic books will win–you guessed it, a HUGE stack of my old comics. Some could be valuable, some may not. They’re really not organized nor in alphabetical order. I’ll leave that to you. I’m running this contest until the July 4th, so put on your thinking caps. I’ll link to this post every so often for a reminder, and as always leave comments or send emails for entries.

Looking for cool things to customize your ride this summer check this out: http://www.comicbookjournal.net/top-ten-comic-book-auto-accessories/

Ok. For starters, I don’t know all that much about the character of the Atom, just that DC has relaunched the title before, so how does this fairly reincarnation stack up? With this title, DC might have also reinvented classic sci-fi in comics. The story was engaging, and the plot fast-paced throughout. The scripting and dialogue was also tight and Rick Remender’s use of caption drew me into the story. This dynamic interaction between written word and reader erased the fourth wall, leading to a thoroughly enjoyable read. Also–the art. Kudos to Pat Olliffe. The panels, the cover, the splash page, the detail, and the backgrounds, all virtually flawless. His style meshes perfectly with this genre as well, at times I felt I was reading a vintage pulp as the clear joy the artist has while drawing seems to seep through the pencils and inks. The only flaw I have with this book, and as I do with many runs on a series, is the lack of character introduction and a “previously” section in the beginning. With that said, I’d have to give thie book a solid nine out of ten. DC has stepped up their game, especially in sci-fi. Do they have any competition? I guess we’ll see, huh? For the skinny on other DC titles, see my recent review of the Action Comics annual at http://www.comicbookjournal.net/action-comics-annual-11/

In the not-so-distant past I reviewed an Action Comics annual didn’t I? Time flies when you’re having fun. Well this year’s annual wasn’t as light-hearted, nor attractive to new readers I fear. Here’s the scoop. That ne’er do well General Zod escaped from the Phantom Zone once again and it’s up to Kal-El, Last Son of Krypton, to save the world from the Kryptonian invasion. The twist at the end is, however, that lovable scamp, Christopher Kent saves the day instead, sacrificing himself into the Phantom Zone to save Earth. This issue is much darker than last year’s annual, and the story is more poignant then fun. Clark laments the fact he cannot bear children with Lois, and Lex Luthor falls deeper into madness, feeling invalidated by not receiving recognition in his part to design the weapons to take out Zod. All in all, I’d have to give this issue a xix out of ten (which to my recollection is what I gave the last annual) The story, with the exception of the biographies in the back, is not really a great jumping on point for new readers. While Richard Donner and Geoff Johns create a fairly good story about Superman’s heritage versus his role on Earth, it’s just all a little…depressing for an annual. On the plus side Adam Kubert’s artwork is outstanding and his different panel viewpoints and camera angles make for a visually compelling read. I’d recommend this title for Superman enthusiasts or completists only though. Novice readers I fear, won’t have much to connect with. Who’s funnier than Jerry Seinfeld? Practically no one. Who’s mightier than Superman? Practically no one. What do you get when you pair the two together? No kids, it’s not a credit card commercial. It’s that really cool page I found with the Superman references in Seinfeld. Here’s the link. Check it out. http://www.comicbookjournal.net/calling-all-superfriends/

I have to start by apologizing to Steve Niles, last week I did incorrectly site him as the author of the Marvel Knights revamp of Frank Castle, the Punisher. The title I was referring to was the Punisher:Purgatory and it was written by fan favorite, Christopher Golden, and drawn by Bernie Wrightson. As you know he is one of my favorite artists, which was more than likely the reason I picked up the book to start with. So I do extend my apologies to Steve Niles. I was correct on Steve’s ability to write a great horror comic though, so for all of you not paying attention the first time, here’s the link to my review of Simon Dark:http://www.comicbookjournal.net/simon-dark-5/.
It’s good stuff! Now, as a blogger, I confess I don’t have a spell checker, grammar checker, fact checker, or even an entourage. So comments like this are always appreciated and if I mess up or if you have any questions or comments please feel free to share. Like I said last week, I always read every comment, even if I don’t respond. So about that entourage any volunteers….
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Stay tuned for more reviews!

Today we’re gonna have a little history lesson. If you think that independent publishers and imprints exists today in the comic book marketplace, you’re sadly mistaken. I took a look at an odd find I discovered. In reviewing Uncle Scrooge #181, which is definitely retro, I was amazed at the level of quality and care that was placed into the issue. The art was fantastic, despite being a little primitive and the colors definitely popped. The writing wasn’t bad either and the main story in the issue was plotted well. You see, Uncle Scrooge is set to loose his entire fortune (as always) if he does not find a case of horseradish buried in the depths of the sea and deliver it to Jamaica. He, of course, must dodge the devious plot of rival McSue to find the booty before he does. Chaos ensures, but ultimately Uncle Scrooge is successful thanks to his handy nephews, Huey, Dewey, and who could forget, Luey.

Now as a book for children this was not bad reading material. I would actually recommend back issues of the title for children in elementary school, or children trying to learn to read. So on a review basis I’d give the title a five out of ten. But it goes deeper than this

For those of you who may not know, and as I learned Whitman Comics was only an alternate distributing company for Gold Key Comics who was an imprint of the original Western Comics imprint. All properties were eventually engulfed by DC. The original titles, however, were impressive and could use a read even today. Whitman’s books included such titles as:

Battle of the Planets
The Beagle Boys Vs. Uncle Scrooge
The Black Hole
Buck Rogers
Bugs Bunny
Daffy Duck
Daisy and Donald
Doctor Solar, Man of the Atom
Flash Gordon
Grimm’s Ghost Stories
Huey, Dewey, and Louie
Little Lulu
Mickey Mouse
The Pink Panther and the Inspector
Porky Pig
Turok, Son of Stone
Walt Disney’s Comics and Stories
Yosemite Sam and Bugs Bunny.

These are considered classics and still cherished by many adults and are a throwback to simpler times of the silver age. So if you’re at a convention, and keep in mind convention season will be in full swing soon, stop by the quarter bin and you’re sure to find a handful of these. If you’re feeling generous, pass them out to the local schools and libraries in an effort to promote not only the comic book market, but literacy in general. So that’s my public service announcement for today.

Also if you know anyone who loves all the classic Disney characters, and who doesn’t know Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and the rest of the crew, have them check out the Disney Movie Club. Below are links to check out all the great benefits the club has to offer.

http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-2191506-10511469
Get 3 Disney Movies for $1.99 Each, Plus Free Shipping! Join Now!“>Get 3 Disney Movies for $1.99 Each, Plus Free Shipping! Join Now!

Also for all who have commented–Yes, I do read the comments and I appreciate any feedback you have to give. Often, I may not take time to respond to each one personally, but I assure you they are all read! Have a webzine or e-comic you want reviewed? If so send me a comment or e-mail at Velma92181@yahoo.com and I’ll do my best to get it out to the world wide web. That is, unless you scared of what I think. Until tomorrow, all will remain quiet on the Western front.

Miles Millar and Alfred Gough, creators and executive producers of Smallville, have announced they will be leaving the series at the end of this current season. With that shocking and somewhat sad news, it leaves me pondering what (if any?) direction the show will take. With that said I used to watch Smallville every time it came on, but as the seasons came and went the show just became harder and harder for me to like. Sure it has a perfect cast, but after Jonathon Kent’s death, the stories took a darker turn and for me it just wasn’t as fun as it used to be. That and I’ve missed about two seasons worth of storylines now.

In terms of storyline and plot I think I liked the light-hearted tone and the creepy factor in the first and second seasons the best where no one knew Clark’s secrets and practically everyone in Smallville as part of the freak fest after the meteor shower hit. I’m not saying that I dislike the show, because it is far better than most common fare on television today, all I’m saying is that it now lacks some of the magic and energy it had in the first three seasons. So now that Millar and Gough are departing, my bet is most of the original cast (who should almost be finished with their contract now) will part ways with the series as well. So will there be Smallville season eight? I guess we’ll just have to wait and see. So until the end of the this season if you’re bored with television and want to check out what Superman is doing on the pages of the actual comic I recommend you check out All-Star Superman, as it is better than I’ve seen Superman done in the past three years. For a full review check out http://www.comicbookjournal.net/all-star-superman-10/.

This title got the Eisner nod for best continuing series, and I can see why. Taking an iconic character like Superman and attempting to do it justice is daunting Quietly and crew do a simply amazing job. The storyline of Superman seeing his end of his time on earth and death approaching quickly is a new twist on the character, who all other writers thus far, have made young and invulnerable with the exception of any alternate universe. This issue is well, quiet, Superman saves some lives and also begins narrating his last will and testament, it is chock full of emotion. The artwork is equally amazing as simple lines and strong details, as well as clarity make this issue both a joy and an easy read.

I think this title has accomplished something few has. It has the ability to appeal to everyone with an easily understandable storyline and also a hook to keep readers coming back for more. I though DC was in trouble before with my blog on the crisis status, see:

; now I realize that only the core titles are in trouble. Maybe this Eisner winning duo should take on and revamp the entire universe themselves, then quality would show through every issue. This book gets a solid ten out of ten.

A couple months ago at http://www.comicbookjournal.net/the-wonder-of-wonder-woman/ I reviewed the Amazon’s latest adventures. I thought I’d just do a little catch up work to see how things stands with ol Diana now and I am pleased to report this title is still top notch in quality. The script does in a sense, as the title indicates comes full circle as Diana celebrates her heritage and saves her mother on her birthday, which is ironic since it was her mother who had saved her life years ago from traitors as well.

With that said I am still impressed with the plots and scripting ability of Gail Simone. Also with Terry and Rachael Dodson on art, everything blends together perfectly. I would have to give this issue a nine out of ten. So why not a perfect score? At the end of a story arc it’s always tough for a new reader to get involved in the story and pick up back issues to complete the run. As I’ve said before a “previously” section could do this title wonders. DC does have a solid title here and I think if they keep their current creative team through the remainder of the book (or as long as possible) they might even have a couple Eisner winners of their own. Props to DC, props to Simone, Dodson(s), and crew. It’s still a wonderful (pun intended) read.

I just picked up Simon Dark out of curiosity and to my surprise, it’s a great find. The last time I remember reading anything by Steve Niles, he had just recently revamped Punisher for Marvel and turned him into a walked zombie of sorts. With Steve Niles fondness for horror, I knew to expect something dark, as the title indicates, but I didn’t think I would see something this dark coming from DC without being under the Vertigo imprint.

With that said, Simon Dark is a cross between Edward Scissorhands, Frankenstein, and the Punisher. It also reminds me of the Spectre, in his early days. Simon Dark the main character of the series, is a made man, who had his body basically sewn together out of parts of others. He sees life and death as black and white, yet has no knowledge that humans need all of their body parts, particularly their heads. Through this issue he hunts down a criminal who killed his beloved pet and murders them.

With this grim of a plot, surprisingly, I liked the story and as a reader I did feel for Simon, it is this ability to convey humanity through dialogue which gives Simon his likability. Simon Dark is a winner. Niles plotting and structure is the best I’ve seen come out of a horror book for quite sometime (since Buffy) and I cannot speak enough about Scott Hampton’s artwork. His pencils are dynamic, no character goes without being lovingly rendered, and the backgrounds are gorgeous. I can’t say how well-balanced everything in his artwork is, so I though I’d include a page here:

On a scale of one to ten, I’d have to give this book a nine out of ten. The only flaw I can see in this series so far is the choice to leave a title this grim and graphic in the regular DC lineup rather than have it printed under Vertigo, specifically for mature readers. This one is a keeper I’ll probably pick up the first few issues and finish out the series you should too.

So what has the Punisher been up to since Niles left? I know, do you? Check out my blog at http://www.comicbookjournal.net/punisher-war-journal-16/ for the rest of the details.

I haven’t read an issue of Gen 13 since I picked up an annual more than a few years back, so I thought it would be fun to revisit the Gen kids. The reason I quit reading the title, other than tired plotting, was the artwork always detracted from these lovable characters. I’m afraid to say that not much has changed since I stopped reading the title. I was refreshed to find that the original cast is still around with Fairchild, Burnout, Grunge and the rest of the gang still causing mischief.

This issue centered on another mind game. As the kids discover (again) that one of their own is a plant by I.O. Sadly, they discovered the same in the original series with John Lynch, their founder/caretaker. So why are we revisiting this same plot line. To save the others, Fairchild must survive a machine that makes her relive her most painful memories visually and will electrocute her if she gets too angry. While an intriguing concept, which could have played nicely into another back story or perhaps even story arc it ended to lead to another storyline to find out who the traitor in the midst is.

Gen 13 has always been New Mutants meets Big Brother, and at first, under the helm of J. Scott Campbell and Jim Lee it was refreshing, and could have been the X-Men for a new generation. Sadly this title reeks of wasted potential. The artwork is too heavy handed, and I don’t know if it’s a style thing for Oliver, but I could not find one panel where a character’s nose was not over-exaggerated or their eyes not crossed slightly. It was clearly amateurish. I had high hopes for this issue but I was ultimately disappointed.

I would have to give this book a five out of ten. The plotting, with a new storyline could be great, however it fails to meet its potential. The same could be said for the artwork. I would recommend this only for the avid collector who must get EVERY single issue of a particular title.

For the best book for 2008 so far, see my post on Battlestar at
http://www.comicbookjournal.net/battlestar-is-pure-dynamite/.

Way back in August I wrote a brief blog on my favorite writer Steve Segal. If you want to walk down memory lane to see why I picked him, see http://www.comicbookjournal.net/whos-your-favorite-writer/.
This issue marks the last issue of American Virgin, the story of Adam Chamberlain as he lives an abnormal life as a young adult who can hear God and strives to “save himself,” both literally and figuratively.

For those who had been aboard this title from the very beginning, there was only one way the story could end and Segal ties up the loose ends very nicely, by giving Adam a requiem and killing off the title character as he comes home pure. Stylistically this final issue had a nice touch, with very subtle backgrounds and the characters are, as always, nicely rendered. Becky Cloonan had a very successful run with this series, and proves that while her style, artistically speaking, is not fit for a lot of titles, she proves she is consistent and has been so throughout the series. The colors are as always appropriate and subdued and especially with the scenes with Satan, serve to contrast the duality in good and evil; right and wrong effortlessly.

As far as plotting goes, Segal, ends the series on a high point, but on the flip side, it seems rushed somewhat. With only twenty-three issues, I am left wondering if the series was prematurely canceled or it was a deliberate choice to leave the series at this point. This issues is definitely not a great jumping on point for new readers, but does justice to the series if a reader wanted to try something different then prehaps read the series in its entire run.

I will attempt now to put aside my fondness for Segal and company to give this book a rating. As a single issue I’d give the book a solid seven out of ten. What is it missing? Well not everyone will jump on board with a main character who is a young adult with no outwardly special powers or great plight. So characterization is a little off sometimes, also at times the series is not as readable as it should be, meaning transitions are off between the reality of Adam being with God and the previous events, which are told through flashbacks and memory. Also there are times when the art is a little loose and some characters are sketchy and not well refined.

On a whole the series is brilliant while read in over a few sittings. This is definitely a series that should be complied into a complete graphic novel. For the series, I’d give it a nine out of ten for originality, and overall readability. Check it out you will not be disappointed. I recommend it for mature readers looking for something more than typical superhero fare.

While I was reading this, I realized that I had never read anything by Brian Azzarello before even though he has become a bit of a legend for his style in the comics world. Let me start by saying I think this title is the perfect fit for him because he is definitely non traditional with his technique. I don’t know much about his background, but my bet is he was a screenwriter before coming to the comics world. His pacing is fantastic, with cut scenes between the separate narratives timed perfectly. This what I have to say I liked best about the book. If this was a traditional Marvel or DC title, I don’t think it would have kept my attention though. He moves slowly to develop the story over a period of time, and I don’t think with a stand alone issue it would work. This issue shows a group of kids and the aftermath of a crime. One of their friends had his brains blew out of his head (literally) in front of them and they are left to try and understand why. Eduardo Risso’s art is subdued thanks to excellent coloring techniques and his loose rendering seems to fit with the atmosphere with this title.

While Azzarello tells a good crime story, I was left thinking afterwards, he doesn’t do noir very well. And let there be no mistake not all crime stories are noir, nor should they be. Frank Miller could have done this particular issue better, as I have hereby decreed him the king of noir, with Sin City. So I tip my hat to Brian for his careful planning and meticulous plot work, but I think his characterization is a little off, even in attempting to make it emotionally wrought with the inexplicable death of a teenager he fails to connect in a way. I just didn’t care what happened to the characters. Maybe if I had read the series up to this point I would have had more understand of why this event was important, but that’s the point I hadn’t. This title is not accessible to new readers which could kill its sales.

Everything together I would have to give this issue a seven out of ten. While it is an excellent read, it would be so much better if it didn’t have mob elements threw in the mix and had a “previously…” section for new readers. I say pick up this issue if you’re looking for a good read on a rainy Sunday morning–don’t pick up this issue if you’re looking for a jumping on point for the series.

If you like this type of continuing storyline and want to see the perfect example of noir and mystery read my favorite title from last year Durwin Talbot’s Bonds. If you haven’t seen it already here’s my review. http://www.comicbookjournal.net/the-ties-that-bond/ I recommend this every chance I get.

In continuation of the reviews for February, I have but one thing to say in my defense– I am a procrastinator. That makes up for all the late postings and maybe even some reviews going into March. With that said, I read Countdown #15 and I have to say I think the title itself is in crisis. While this isn’t the best jumping on point for someone unfamiliar with the series I think it read as lackluster. The writing seemed tired and cliched and some of the dialogue reeked of the mediocre. “Say hello to my little friend.” went out in the late nineties, along with the buzz over Grand Theft Auto. Anyway, I’d give this book at least a six out of ten as the artwork carried the book, along with great characterization of Batman and his no nonsense attitude. However, for the best book you’re probably still not reading see my review at: http://www.comicbookjournal.net/battlestar-is-pure-dynamite/

What’s the best book of February so far? Check out http://www.comicbookjournal.net/battlestar-is-pure-dynamite/
For all the details! So Booster Gold huh? Well even though the banner touts him as “The Greatest Hero You’ve Never Heard Of,” or something to that effect–I have heard of him. In the eighties and the flood of superheros in the market he was a flash in the pan. I wasn’t excited to read this issue, I’ve never been a fan of washed up has beens, but I’m glad I did. DC is on a roll this month. This issue, while not exactly a work of genius was enjoyable. I liked the lack of ego that Booster Gold had in this issue as he travels back in time to save Ted Kord, Blue Beetle. I have to confess I missed most of the events of 52 (hoping they will eventually be collected) but it was intriguing that another minor character of the late eighties/early nineties, Checkmate played a pivotal role as one of the Masterminds. As for as the writing goes it was solid throughout and the art…fantastic. Reading a Dan Jurgens comic is always a pleasure because he can be counted on for consistency in detail, line work, pacing, and his storyboards are always smooth. He knows how to lay out a page, and delivers on every issue he works on. He also can draw him some pretty blonde hunks too, that’s a big plus for me. On a whole, this issue gets a solid six of ten, readable, fun, but no masterpiece.

When I read this issue, I felt it was the closest thing to a pure DC book I’ve read in a while. What I do enjoy about DC Comics is that DC from cover to cover makes me excited to read the comic. When I read the first page, I keep thinking, “yeah, this is why I love this medium.” Even though it’s far different than the Battlestar comics I’ve fallen in love with recently, This comic was vibrant. It left me wanting more, which is far more than some titles DC has released recently can say. The plotting was smooth, but I have to say I was even more impressed with the dialogue. I chuckled at the scene in the bar, where Linda tries to out drink her buddy, and I felt myself even becoming a little worried about Barbara Gordon. What’s my point? That comics today often lack the characterization necessary to allow readers to empathize with the superheros. This is why comics, especially early Marvel and DC became successful to start with. The art is also very clean, detailed and transitions from panel to panel and page to page easily. It looks almost effortless. So kudos to DC for keeping this book in print and also putting together a top notch creative team. I give this book a more than solid seven out of ten. If DC keeps this up, they’ll be back on track.