Saturday, August 25, 2012

Batman: Earth One

Batman: Earth One
Geoff Johns, Gary Frank

This is a really cool, brand-new take on Batman's origin story.  Although it's technically set in a different dimension, even casual fans will know most of the characters, and be able to follow the story easily.  That being said, I want to warn parents that this book isn't meant for kids.  There are several curse words and sexual insinuations used, and the entire story is set in a very violent, dark Gotham City.  That darkness lends well to the story, because this book is all about the war between good and evil in Gotham.  The way the different characters cope with or fight the darkness is what makes this story cool.

Specifically, we get to follow Bruce through his first years as Batman, and see how he deals with all his problems (he has more than you might expect).  We also get to see Geoff Johns' take on several popular Gotham-based characters, including James and Barbara Gordon.  I love how the history of Gotham was interwoven with the Arkhams and the Waynes too, because it made the whole story fit together.  I'd definitely recommend this book to casual and die-hard Batman fans.  Because it's a fresh take on the origin story, it doesn't matter if you've been following Batman forever or if you're just hopping on the bandwagon.

Bottom line: 4/5

Nightwing #1

Nightwing #1
Kyle Higgins, Eddy Burrows, J.P. Mayer

The goal of this issue seemed to be getting us up  to speed with Nightwing.  I'm so glad he went back to his old identity, because I was never really comfortable with him as Batman.  This issue kind of settled everything back into its rightful place.  This new villain is cool, too (although he's totally a rip-off of Wolverine).  The bonus: Nightwing's new red and black costume.

Bottom line: 3.5/5

Calling all readers!  I'd like to know the name of Nightwing's Wolverine-villain; can anybody help me?

Friday, August 24, 2012

Catwoman #1





Catwoman #1
Judd Winick, Guillem March

After playing Arkham City non-stop for a few weeks, I've come to really like Catwoman.  But I have to say, the Catwoman in Arkham City is not a lot like the Catwoman in this series.  I always think of Selina as a strong woman who can take care of herself (or maybe sell an issue without taking her clothes off).  But this issue doesn't really represent her that well.

In fact, this issue pretty much stunk.  There was very little plot, and the entire issue seemed to revolve around glimpses of Selina's body.  This issue is NOT for children, or, frankly, for adults.

Bottom line: 0.5/5

Batgirl #1




 
Batgirl #1
Gail Simone, Ardian Syaf, Vicente Cifuentes
 
Obviously, I'm a little obssessed with Batgirl, and after hearing that Barbara Gordon was returning as Batgirl and seeing the fantastic cover art, I had high expectations for this issue.  Although it didn't blow me out of the water, I was impressed, and I really enjoyed it.  Barbara is a really interesting character: carefree and yet totally serious.  I liked how she wasn't immediately back to her old self, but had some insecurities and problems that came with "un-retiring."  In my opinion, this title could be really good.  I hope it is!
 
Bottom line: 4/5
 
For those of you who have been keeping up with this title, can you tell me if the more recent issues have been good?

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Batman and Robin #1

August 23, 2012
Batman and Robin #1
Peter J. Tomasi, Patrick Gleason, Mick Gray

At first, I hated the idea of Damian becoming Robin, but he's winning me over now.  The dynamics between Batman and Damian are interesting; they have such different styles and attitudes.  It's clear that Damian, although he may hate Talia, has learned a lot from her and has picked up on a lot of her attitudes.  Other pluses for this issue: an exciting new villain, and good illustrations.
Lastly, isn't it convenient how all the foreign "Batmen" are dying except for Batwing?

Bottom line: 3.5/5

Batman: The Dark Knight

August 23, 2012
Batman: The Dark Knight
David Finch, Paul Jenkins, Richard Friend

I liked this issue.  It starts out a little slow, but I got the impression that the writers have some good stuff planned.  I like the way they switch from the sophistication of the upper class of Gotham to the violence of Arkham Asylum - it's an interesting, dramatic contrast.  Overall, not my favorite Batman title (how can you beat Batman?), but I still think it will be pretty good.

Bottom line: 4/5

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Batwoman #1

August 22, 2012
Batwoman #1
J.H. Williams III, W. Haden Blackman

I'm about to upset a lot of people, but I didn't like this issue very much at all.  Some of the art is striking (in a good way), and some of it is just plain weird.  The entire story seems to revolve around Kate and Bette Kane changing their clothes, and I'm sick of Kate's homosexuality constantly being forced into my conciousness.  She is a really cool character, and her writers don't need to rely on her sexuality to sell comics.  They've turned her into a one-trick pony, and I'm not into it.

Bottom line: 1/5

Detective Comics #1

August 22, 2012
Detective Comics #1
Tony S. Daniel, Ryan Winn

These guys don't waste time!  The action starts off immediately with Joker and Batman.  I think that's what I like about this issue: it sort of goes back to the good ol' days of Joker vs. Batman.  This title also seems like it's going to explore the more sinister, brutal side of Gotham (and, of course, Joker).  I'm definitely optimistic about this series.

Bottom line: 4.5/5

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Batman #1

August 21, 2012
Batman #1
Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Jonathan Glapion

I have been waiting to read this for weeks, and it definitely did not disappoint.  This issue was probably my second-favorite #1 issue in the New 52.  The artwork was pretty good, the dialogue was great, and everyone was in character.  These writers don't waste any time in starting their story, and I'm super-excited to see where they take it.  The entire thing flows very well, and feels natural.  Awesome story!

Bottom line: 5/5

Supergirl #1

August 21, 2012
Supergirl
Michael Green, Mike Johnson, Mahmud Asrar, Dan Green

First off, I just want to say that I loved the art in this one.  Supergirl is more that just a super-heroine.  She's a real, emotional young woman.  The whole ordeal that she goes through as she figures out what's going on is pretty cool.  I hope the writers don't deviate too much from the Superman/Batman version of Supergirl, but so far things are looking good.

Bottom line: 4/5

Monday, August 20, 2012

Superboy #1

August 20, 2012
Superboy #1
Scott Lobdell, R.B. Silva, Rob Lean

I'm not usually a Superboy fan, but I think I could be if the writers stick to this type of story.  The characters were interesting, and the art was fitting for an aimed-at-teens title.  I really appreciated seeing Rose Wilson in there, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of her.  The only thing I'm worried about is that they may have retconned Superboy's human donor; I hope it's still Lex.  All in all, pretty good.

Bottom line: 3/5

Can any of you tell me if Connor still has Lex's genes?  I haven't been keeping up with this series.

Superman #1



August 20, 2012
Superman #1
George Perez, Jesus Merino

Classic Superman!  The art, the story, Clark's character - were all classic, just like they should be.  My only complaint was Lois' boyfriend scene.  I prefer the "old-fashioned" Lois, but I guess they're trying to be more "accessible" and "modern."

Bottom line: 4.5/5

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Batman #12


August 18, 2012
Batman #12 - Comic Book Cover

Batman #12
Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, Becky Cloonan, Andy Clarke

I know this issue got stellar reviews from ComicVine and probably from everybody else.  But, in my honest opinion, it was just ok.  I liked the story, but I didn't see how it fit in that well with the Night of the Owls arc (apparently it was a back-up story, which makes a lot more sense).  Also, I didn't like the how the art style switched in the middle of the issue; it takes away from the fluidity.  I did appreciate the focus on the people of Gotham, but I'm tired of the pro-homosexuality theme that is so often present in the New 52.  I just think it's a gimmick used to look open-minded, and I'm tired of it.

Other than that, it was fine.  Not Snyder's best work (again, in my opinion), but good.  The biggest thought I take away from it is that I may have just been introduced to a new villain or vigilante, which is always exciting.

P.S.: Congrats to Becky Cloonan on being the first female artist on this series!
Bottom line: 2.5/5

Friday, August 17, 2012

Superman vs. The Elite



August 17, 2012
Superman vs. The Elite

I love these DC animated films!  This one tells the story of Superman fighting the anti-hero group called The Elite.  To be honest, the only member of the team I was familiar with was Manchester Black, and I only had a hazy idea that he had kidnapped Lois Lane at some point (don't worry, that's not a spoiler).  But the characters on the team were actually a lot of fun to watch, even if they don't get much of an intro.

Pros: This is a fun movie with great action scenes.  The animation is great, and the plot is not your average good-guy-vs.-bad-guy story.

Cons: I can't vouch for the family-friendliness 100%.  There are several curse words used, and some sexual insinuations.  Other than that it was clean, but I wouldn't let a young child watch this film.

Overall, this follows in the pattern of the previous DC animated films; fun, action-packed, and enjoyable.  You should definitely give this a try if you enjoy Superman movies or the other DC animated films.

Bottom line: 3.5/5

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Action Comics #1

August 15, 2012

Action Comics #1
Grant Morrison, Rags Morales, Rick Bryant

I was disappointed after reading this.  Since when was Superman a scary vigilante?  I didn't like his costume, either.  The ray of hope for me was seeing Lex Luthor in there.  I'm guessing his presence will turn Superman into his normal, law-abiding self.   The ending was pretty awsome, so hopefully that bodes well for this title.

Bottom line: 2.5/5

DC Universe Presents #1

August 15, 2012

DC Universe Presents #1
Paul Jenkins, Bernard Chang

I liked this one.  Deadman is an interesting character, especially after his role in Brightest Day.  This issue was more of an introduction (hence the title, duh) than anything else, but it was a good introduction.  My biggest question after reading this is: could Rama somehow be connected to Pandora?

Bottom line: 3/5

Hey guys, I haven't read any of the more recent issues from this title.  Can you tell me anything more about Rama?

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Mister Terrific #1

August 14, 2012

Mister Terrific #1
Eric Wallace, Gianluca Gugliotta, Wayne Faucher

Ok, everybody knows that Mister Terrific was cancelled before the second wave of the New 52. 
I originally wrote this review shortly after the first issue came out, so if you feel like you're going back in time, you are (sort of).

Good story, good art.  I enjoyed getting to know Mr. Terrific a little better.  I have a hard time buying his grief over his wife when he's already replaced her with someone else.  I guess I'm just a little unclear about how much time has passed, but I'm interested in finding out more about him and his son.

Bottom line: 3.5/5

The Savage Hawkman #1

August 14, 2012

The Savage Hawkman #1
Tony S. Daniel, Philip Tan

I was pleasantly surprised by this issue.  The art isn't my favorite style, but it works well with Hawkman and his ancient warrior atmosphere.  I was sort of disappointed that Hawkgirl wasn't included, but maybe she's still busy being a wind elemental.  I think Tony Daniel got Hawkman's character pretty much perfect, and Tan's costume design really made him look like a warrior.  Interesting and action-packed, with good visuals.

Bottom line: 4/5

Green Arrow #1

August 14. 2012

Green Arrow #1
J.T. Krul, Dan Jurgens, George Perez

This was just ok for me.  I like how Ollie is portrayed; he's pretty much "in character."  But I don't like the Oracle-knock-off Naomi, or the villains he fights.  They just seem kind of second-tier, like B-list villains.  However, the fighting scenes were pretty good, and I think these writers could do something cool with Ollie.

Bottom line: 3/5

Monday, August 13, 2012

Fury of Firestorm #1

August 13, 2012


The Fury of Firestorm #1
Gail Simone, Ethan Van Sciver, Yildiray Cinar

I've only recently become a Firestorm fan, but I liked how this book kind of stayed on track with the Blackest Night/Brightest Day arc.  The art is good, too.  But what happened to Jason's girlfriend?  She's already been replaced?

Anyway, overall it's pretty good (although sometimes I just feel like slapping Jason and Ronnie and telling them to grow up).

Bottom line: 4/5

Captain Atom #1

August 13, 2012

Captain Atom #1
J.T. Krul, Freddie Williams III

My complaints on this one were mostly the art and the weird though-bubbles.  I never really understood those.  Aside from these, the story was actually pretty good, and I liked the intro to Dr. Megala, who I've never seen before.  Captain Atom didn't fit my JLU idea of him, but he was still an interesting and cool character, if not even more so than he was in the Unlimited Series.

Bottom line: 2.5/5

The Flash #1

August 13, 2012

The Flash #1
Francis Manapul, Brian Buccellato

I enjoyed this one.  The story was a little confusing at times, but as a whole it was pretty cool.  I would have appreciated an introduction to Barry's friend Manuel, who I'm totally unacquainted with.  However, I'm really happy that we're finally back with Barry.  Ever since Blackest Night he's been my favorite Flash.  Let's hope these guys do him justice.

Bottome line: 3/5

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Wonder Woman #1


August 8, 2012
Wonder Woman #1
Brian Azzarello, Cliff Chang

I'm going to be honest here, and completely disagree with most of you.  This issue disappointed me.  I don't really like this style of art, and the story was confusing at best.  It's too bad; I hoped for more in such a prominent title.

Bottom line: 2.5/5

Comment and tell me if the later issues are better, or if you think I'm crazy.

Aquaman #1


August 8, 2012

Aquaman #1
Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis, Joe Prado

It's no surprise that I really enjoyed this one, with Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis teaming up.  I feel lie this one ties most directly (besides Green Lantern) into Blackest Night and Brightest Day, which I loved.  The art is fantastic; one minute everything is beautiful and vibrant, the next it's very sinister and monochromatic.
Side note:  I love seeing Mera in a prominent role here - she was one of my favorite characters in Blackest Night.

Bottom line: 4/5

Justice League International #1

August 8, 2012
Justice League Internation #1
Dan Jurgens, Aaron Lopresti, Matt Ryan

Somewhat predictable, but enjoyable nonetheless.  I like the way they're portraying Booster Gold, and I also enjoyed seeing Rocket Red in there.  The art was pretty impressive, in a very bright and happy sort of way.  I'm not a huge Guy Gardner fan, but I think I'm coming around, and I liked seeing Batman in there, of course.

Bottom line: 2.5/5

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Batman #8 - Attack on Wayne Manor; The Call

May 18, 2012
What can I say about this series that hasn't been said? It's fantastic. Scott Snyder has been doing an amazing job with this title, and I can't say enough about how much I love the Court of Owls concept.
I'm not even going to bother doing the Pros/Cons thing, because I already know I can't think of anything wrong with this issue. The story is great, the art is great (fitting in a Gothic way), the dialogue is great...yeah, pretty much everything is fantastic. This particular issue is especially exciting because of the back-up story, which is set in the past and features Alfred Pennyworth's father, Jarvis.
Bottom Line: If you haven't read this issue yet, do yourself a favor and grab it soon.

Justice League: Doom

May 18, 2012
I really enjoy these DC animated films. They manage to capture a great story in a short time. This one includes a lot of my favorite heroes, and features Vandal Savage as the villain.
Pros: The voice-acting was really good, and it fit each character well. Additionally, all of the characters were themselves, or at least as I've come to know them. I loved the story; it's well thought-out, and manages to give Batman the spotlight, which is a big plus for me. Also, it's very family friendly, even more so than some of the other DC animated films.
Cons: The dialogue was a little disjointed at times, and certain parts of the action didn't seem to fit. While Superman was fighting Metallo, he was totally powerless, until all of a sudden, he wasn't. Other than a few minor slips, everything was pretty good.
Overall: This is a fun movie that I really enjoyed. If you liked Superman/Batman: Public Enemies or any of the other DC animated films, you'll like this one too.

Dial H #1 - What's the 411?

May 12, 2012

I'm not quite sure whether I liked this issue or not. The idea of dialing from a payphone and getting super-powers might be a little corny, but I kind of liked it. On the other hand, the creators seemed to be trying to overshadow the corny-ness of it by making it so "modern" that it's a little disturbing. The concept is cool, but I'm afraid this issue is going down the path of strangeness and morbidity. However, given the success of Animal Man (which I admit, I disliked) the weirdness might actually help this title, rather than hinder it.
Do I recommend it? If you enjoy Animal Man or Alice in Wonderland, then yes, I do. If not, then stick to some of DC's more classic titles.

Bottom line: 2.5/5

Earth 2 #1 - The Price of Victory

May 12, 2012

I was really excited to pick up this issue, and I definitely wasn't disappointed. It starts out with a bang, and continues to be exciting all the way through. The story was pretty amazing considering that it's only the first issue, and I loved the artwork. I know a lot of people hate the idea of multiple earths, but this just felt right.
My one concern is how the story can be continued when Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman are dead, and Huntress and Power Girl are gone, but I guess I'll just have to wait and see. However it goes, I'm looking forward to it.
If you do decide to pick up this issue, make sure to get World's Finest #1, too, because the stories are linked.

Bottom line: 4.5/5

Worlds' Finest #1 - Rebirth


May 12, 2012

I was excited about this issue, and it lived up to my expectations. I love Power Girl and Huntress
(I was very happy about Power Girl's costume change. Now, maybe she can be taken seriously), and I expect great things from this title. The story was good, and the art style fit in really well with the story, allowing the whole thing to flow without feeling disjointed. I especially enjoyed the chemistry between Power Girl and Huntress. They're two very different characters, but the dialogue between them is well-written and feels natural. The only thing that threw me off was Power Girl as a rich girl, but I'm sure I'll get used to it.
I highly recommend that you pick up this issue, but if you do, make sure to pick up Earth 2 #1, because it functions almost as a back-up story to this one.

Bottom line: 4/5

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

G.I. Combat # 1 - The War That Time Forgot

May 12, 2012
Starring the Unknown Soldier...
G.I. Combat # 1 - The War That Time Forgot; The Unknown Soldier, Chapter One
J.T. Krul, Justin Gray, Jimmy Palmiotti

I sort of have to review this issue in two parts. The first part, G.I. Combat, was reminiscent of the Men of War title. However, I enjoyed it more than MoW because of the way it flowed. Where MoW was a little confusing at times, G.I. Combat is clear, natural, and fast-paced. I didn't like the style of art, but other than that I really enjoyed this issue, and was pleasantly surprised.

The second part, the Unknown Soldier, is really the selling point for this issue. I've always been fascinated by the Unknown Soldier, and this issue showcases the mystery and intrigue surrounding him. Also, the art is cool and fits in well with the style of the issue. Honestly, I think he should have his own monthly title.

Bottom line: 3.5/5

Justice League # 1

May 11, 2012
And So It Begins...
Justice League # 1 - Justice League, Part One
Geoff Johns, Jim Lee, Scott Williams

Geoff Johns and Jim Lee are DC Comics' Dream Team, and they don't disappoint. Justice League #1 was my favorite issue out of all the New 52, and I'm excitedly looking forward to what happens next. The art is fantastic, of course, and the story is typical of Geoff Johns (which is to say it's phenomenal). The dialogue was good, too; I loved the parts with Hal Jordan and Batman together, because they're so different, and yet the dialogue was natural.

All in all, this issue was amazing. I'm really glad that Johns and Lee get to re-introduce us to the Justice League. Expect great things from this title.

Bottom line: 5/5

Avengers (2012)

May 8, 2012

Best Marvel Movie!

Believe the hype! This movie was amazing all the way through. It's definitely one of the top superhero movies ever made. In fact, I'd only put the Dark Knight (and now TDKR) above it.

Pros: This is a super-clean movie that the whole family can enjoy. It's also a movie that even the most strict comic book fan can watch without flinching. Every character feels natural, and stays true to their comic book portrayals. Additionally, their interactions with each other were spot-on. The plot was good; exciting without being too confusing. The entire thing was full of action, and yet we also got to know each character better.  Plus, I LOVED how they included Thanos at the end!

Cons: Were there any? I noticed one or two dirty words, but nothing severe. The main reason this movie is rated PG-13 is because of the action sequences, which involved a lot of smashing, blasting, and other awesome verbs.

Overall: This movie was great. I absolutely recommend it, to pretty much everyone in the world. It's a must-see.

P.S.: Stay through the credits!

Bottom line: 5/5