Comic Book Journal

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/

I saw this adaptation of Sherilyn Kenyon’s Lords of Avalon and admittedly, I was intrigued. Marvel has stepped outside of its comfort level of mutants to a realm of magic before with great success. The Anita Blake adaptations were very well written, and hopefully, Marvel will aquire the rights to a series and not just a limited run. But enough about that solid series for now. Attempting to branch out to different markets, like with Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter, Marvel has released, a Sherrilyn Kenyon companion, Lords of Avalon. While the story centers on deceit in the kingdom of Avalon and the assassin who is tapped to find out who is torturing and murdering knights of the holy grail, the subplot is the battle between good and evil inside the soul of Varian. Now let’s talk story–the plot is solid, but I imagine, not as well crafted as one of Kenyon’s novels, still the shortened adaptation does have it’s appeal as it jumps straight into the situation at hand, only transitioning to flashback when necessary to explain a character’s motivation or situation. The artwork had to grow on me as the story progressed. I’m usually not a huge fan of the manga-inspired style, but it did seem to work with this story adding a shade of drama to what might have been a very straightfoward, watered-down set of storyboards. All in all I would have to say this series is worth checking out, and for fans of fantasy, maybe even the World of Warcraft crowd, it will be a hit. I’d give this one a solid six out of ten. For more on ABVH: Guilty Pleasures, see my reviews at :http://www.comicbookjournal.net/category/marvel/

This makes Superman Returns look like Citizen Kane!

I went to go see the Spirit on Christmas day. I was in a rather cheerful mood, because not only was it Christmas, but I got to spend the day at my leisure as I finally got the day off. My cheerfulness ended there, however. Cheer was replaced with anger as I exited the theatre disappointed and outraged. Yes, I will repeat genuine outrage. Frank Miller can hold his own in the comics industry, and Eisner as we all know is a legend and has created a remarkable character in the Spirit, so what happened? From the beginning the movie did not even attempt to acknowledge the audience. No effort was made to establish any sort of plot. The visuals, while interesting did nothing to revive the lackluster story. No wait– there was no story. The origin story of Denny Colt becoming the Spirit was the only saving grace, but therein lies the problem, there was not anything to get me involved in the film. And don’t get me started on the appeal to the highbrow class of movie-goer, who would attempt to draw meaning on the various imagery throughout the film. If someone was deciphered the meaning behind the ethos, pathos, logos clones, or the significance of the blood of Heracles, please…get back to me because I don’t get it. I don’t think I want to. This film could have been legendary like its creator, but as the director has said, he did not make this film for the fans. If Miller had focused on the fans, we might have had a fitting tribute to a man who devoted most of his life to this industry, instead of an over-the-top, look-at-me ego trip which is nothing more than a waste of film. I give this flick a two out of ten. The actor playing the Spirit was good in a few scenes, but that’s about it. For more reviews of (hopefully) better movies check out http://www.moviereviewreport.com/

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/