Hola folks, Harry here.... Andrew Goletz has unleashed an amazing run of reviews and information on upcoming titles... Personally that Startling Stories: Banner #1 with illustrations by the god known as Richard Corben... well I'm salivating like a Giger creation for that baby... Damn End Of The Month! ARGH! And I can't wait to pick up GREEN ARROW 5. Well read em and weep.... Sounds like some great stuff out there....
Reviews/Previews
-by Andrew Goletz and Barry Wolborsky of GrayHavenMagazine
Here we are again. This week we have some quick reviews on 6 of the best comics to hit stores last week, as well as your best bets for comics hitting the stores this week and an exclusive look at Banner #1 and Exiles #2, among others.
LAST WEEK’S NOTABLES (Still on Sale, if You’re Lucky)
Flash #175 DC Comics
-reviewed by Barry Wolborsky
Written by Geoff Johns and illustrated by Scott Kolins & Doug Hazlewood For those of you who thought The Flash was just another superhero comic that reached it’s peak 5 years ago, think again. Since artist Scott Kolins joined writer Geoff Johns on this title it’s been one of the best superhero books on the stands. The pencils and coloring by Doug Hazlewood look like nothing else out there and Johns’ writing is just as strong on the characterization as it is on the superhero plots. In the current story arc, we learn that a past fling with an old flame may have left Wally with more than just guilt feelings. But before he can do anything about it, an old foe from the Flash’s "Rouge’s Gallery" appears to stir up some trouble. If you’ve never read the Flash before or haven’t since Mark Waid last wrote it, this issue is a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Go ahead and give it a try. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Grade: A (Best of the Week)
Green Arrow #5 DC Comics
-reviewed by Barry Wolborsky
Written by Kevin Smith and illustrated by Phil Hester & Ande Parks There should be a warning label on the cover of DC Comic’s Green Arrow: For Fanboys Only. While Kevin Smith makes an admirable effort in bringing new readers up to speed, this comic references so much obscure past continuity of the last 40 years, that even long time readers like myself can find it a bit daunting at times. But I see this as more of the fault of DC’s confused, convoluted history, rather than any fault of Smith’s. Once you get past this little problem, Green Arrow is a fun, even nostalgic look at one of DC’s most underused and even abused second-string characters. The one thing I never tire of is Smith’s sharp, funny dialogue. It’s clear from his interpretation of Oliver Queen that he has a deep affection for the character. He also does a great job dialoguing guest-stars Batman and a young woman named Stephanie, who must be his current sidekick, even though it’s never really explained. Anyone know where Robin went off to? It seems that the only reason this character appeared is as a plot device for Smith to explain some of the things that the reader might be wondering. Aside from this little nitpick; I did enjoy this particular issue of what is turning out to be a fun, if continuity-heavy series.
Grade: B
Tangled Web: The Thousand #3 Marvel Comics
-reviewed by Andrew Goletz
Written by Garth Ennis and illustrated by John McCrea. After the disappointing 2-issue Hulk mini-series earlier in the year by this same creative team, I had little hope for this series. I was more curious to see how they would interpret the character of Spider-Man than optimistic about reading a good story. I was wrong. McCrea’s art hasn’t been this good since his work on Hitman and Ennis was more than able to tell a superhero story, albeit with a bit of a horrific twist. Readers familiar with Ennis work on Preacher or Punisher may be expecting some twisted event to happen to Peter or Aunt May (as I did), but instead the writer delivers a straightforward superhero tale with Spider-Man and everyone else in his life acting in character. The villain is unique, frightening and proves to be a worthy adversary for our hero. We even get a small touch of Ennis’ humor with the end, but he manages to keep himself from going too over the top. My only complaint would be that for a series that was supposed to deal more with the lives that Spider-Man affects, it appeared to be just another Spider-Man story. Next issue’s solo tale by Greg Rucka follows the concept more traditionally, but we’ll get to that in a week. All in all, a surprisingly normal (for the team involved) story with a satisfying resolution.
Grade: A
Ultimate Marvel Team-Up #5 Marvel Comics
-reviewed by Barry Wolborsky
Written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Mike Allred One of the fun parts of the Ultimate Marvel Universe is seeing established Marvel superheroes reinterpreted for a new generation of readers. Brian Michael Bendis and Mike Allred’s Iron Man is no exception. Hands down, my favorite part of this issue were the flashbacks to exactly how Tony Stark began developing his Iron Man armor, giving a nod to the original, though very dated, 35 year old origin. And the action sequences with Spidey and Iron Man ain’t bad either. My only complaint with this and the last issue is Bendis’ trademark dialogue. While it works perfectly with his more adult, edgier books like Powers and Jinx, it doesn’t always work for me in his superhero stories. I can’t quite put my finger on exactly why, but I think when it’s used too often, this style of dialogue can very quickly start to sound stale. Hopefully Bendis will find a way to keep it as fresh as his new and interesting take on established Marvel characters.
Grade: B+
Batman #592 DC Comics
-reviewed by Barry Wolborsky
Written by Ed Brubaker and illustrated by Scott McDaniel & Karl Story Ed Brubaker wraps up his second issue as regular writer of Batman with more insight into Bruce Wayne’s character. Specifically, his childhood, just after the murder of his parents. It also involves Batman’s attempt to stop an assassination of a man who is a former mob figure as well as the father of his former childhood friend. With a nice blend of action and character back-story, Brubaker gives us a Batman who is more flawed than other writers usually portray him. This approach works; however, as it manages to give even the action sequences a level of depth that is often missing in superhero comics. Add Scott McDaniel’s fluid artwork to the mix and you have a powerful, entertaining superhero comic.
Grade: A
JSA #25 DC Comics -reviewed by Barry Wolborsky
Written by David Goyer and Geoff Johns and illustrated by Steve Sadowski This double sized issue marks the conclusion of the "Return of Hawkman" storyline. While it offers up nothing new in terms of super heroics, it’s still a well written, well-illustrated issue with some nice little character moments, especially the ones between Hawkman and Hawkgirl, Flash and Mr. Terrific and the four original members of the JSA. It’s also got a final two-page spread that made the JSA fanboy inside of me drool. The only downside to JSA is that the book is, by it’s nature, very dependent on past knowledge and history of the characters and the DC Universe, much like Green Arrow. However, the characters are so well written and the stories so well done that it doesn’t take much of an effort to get into the title. And once you do, I think it’s fun, light, superhero reading.
Grade: B
THE WEEK’S BEST BETS:
Note: Due to the Holiday, Comics will be coming out on Thursday instead of Wednesday.
CRUSADES #5 $2.50 DC/Vertigo
Written by Steven Seagle and illustrated by Kelly Jones and Jason Moore. The first storyline of this series, featuring a true ‘dark’ knight in modern times, concludes as San Francisco erupts on all sides.
DAREDEVIL YELLOW #2 $3.50 Marvel Comics
Written by Jeph Loeb and illustrated by Tim Sale. After the horrible tragedy Matt Murdock underwent last issue, he’s out for revenge. Featuring Matt’s first outing in costume as Daredevil.
FANBOY TP $12.95 DC Comics
144 pages. Written by Mark Evanier and illustrated by Sergio Aragones (the co-creators of Groo). Featuring guest art by the likes of Neil Adams, Dave Gibbons, Gil Kane, Frank Miller, Kevin Nowlan, Bill Sienkiewicz, Bruce Timm and many other comic book greats. This volume collects the adventures of Finster, a comic shop employee/high school student who’s the ultimate, well, Fanboy.
JOSS WHEDONS FRAY #2 (Of 8) $2.99 Dark Horse Comics
Written by Joss Whedon with Karl Moline and Andy Owens. Part two of the Buffy creator’s mini-series featuring a young woman in a futuristic world who chases monsters out of the shadows for profit.
JUST IMAGINE STAN LEE WITH JOE KUBERT CREATING BATMAN $5.95
Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee comes to DC to write a series of one-shots under the ‘Just Imagine’ banner. The concept is pretty simple: what if Stan Lee created these characters instead of the creators we’re all familiar with. The first 48pg Prestige Format book focuses on Lee’s reinvention of Batman with art by fellow legend, Joe Kubert. A black man (Wayne Washington) is framed for armed robbery and goes to jail. Thoughts of revenge fill his heart and head as he trains himself for the moment he’ll be released. A free man, Wayne gains fame and fortune as the masked wrestler known only as Batman and attracts the attention of a mysterious villain who will play a key role in these one-shots. This isn’t so much a best bet as it is worth mentioning just for the sheer hype factor. I’m betting that the series starts off strong, due to the ‘car wreck’ curiosity of fans and non-fans alike, but you’ve read the description and you know how you feel when you do slow down to take a look at the mess on the side of the road. Make up your own mind.
100 BULLETS #26 $2.50 DC/Vertigo
Written by Brian Azzarello and illustrated by Edwardo Risso. This is the perfect jumping on point for new readers for one of the best comics being published. Told from the POV of Mr. Branch (the conspiracy nut), readers can be brought up to speed with the various characters, groups and actions thus far. This issue also features some pinups of characters by the likes of Tim Bradstreet, JG Jones, and Frank Miller.
THOR #39 $2.25 Marvel Comics
Written by Dan Jurgens and illustrated by Stuart Immonen and Wade Von Grawbadger. Featuring a stunning cover by Barry Windsor-Smith. Thor has been separated from his ‘other’ identity and must battle the vicious Surtur.
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #11 $2.25 Marvel Comics
Written by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Mark Bagley and art Thibert. The Kingpin storyline continues. After last issue’s embarrassing and decisive defeat at the hands of Wilson Fisk, Spider-Man seeks to even the score. Will things turn out better this time around? Ultimate Spider-Man is the best superhero title being published today. Find out why.
WAITING PLACE VOL 2 #9 $2.95 Slave Labor Graphics
Written by Sean McKeever and illustrated by Mike Norton.
You can’t get much better than this title for good, quality storytelling. The Waiting Place is a thoughtful, highly enjoyable, ‘slice of life’ comic book. Its characters are fully fleshed and as real as any you'll find in movies or television.
Pick of the Week (Comic): ONI PRESS COLOR SP 2001 $5.95 Oni Press
This 48-page color special features a lead story, ‘Who Killed Madman’, written by Brian Michael Bendis, which parodies his own initial Powers’ storyline, ‘Who Killed Retro-Girl’. Featuring guest stars galore as suspects, Bendis promises that the guilty party is one of his closely guarded secrets and you’ll have to pick up the issue to find out. The special also boasts the work of some of the top creative talent in comic books: Mike Oeming, Mike and Laura Allred, J Torres and J Bone, Chynna Clugston-Major, Jen Van Meter, Andi Watson, Greg Rucka and more. Fantastic writing. Amazing art. And a lot of fun. This is essential reading here.
Pick of the Week (Trade): ULTIMATE X-MEN: The Tomorrow People. $14.95
Written by Mark Millar and illustrated by Adam Kubert and Art Thibert, this 160-page trade collects the first 6 issues of Ultimate X-Men (the best selling comic of the year so far). This trade introduces familiar characters Cyclops, Beast, Colossus, Storm, Professor X, Magneto and his Brotherhood in a series free from convoluted continuity. It’s a clean slate here and the perfect opportunity to catch up on the hottest series in comics.
CLOSER LOOK/PREVIEWS:
-reviewed by Andrew Goletz
STARTLING STORIES: BANNER #1 (of 4) Marvel Comics
Written by Brian Azzarello (Hellblazer, 100 Bullets) and illustrated by Richard Corben (Hellblazer).
Banner is the first of Marvel’s ‘Startling Stories’. The concept of this line is to allow the industry’s top talent to tell stories about Marvel characters that are free from continuity restraints and the ordinary ‘rules’ of Marvel classic characters. As it should be, the point is to go out and tell good stories that don’t have to fit into ‘what has gone before’
First up is Brian Azzarello’s take on the Incredible Hulk, or more specifically, Dr. Bruce Banner. Banner’s very existence is the cause of countless deaths and unbelievable destruction. How can he live with himself knowing that the monstrous Hulk could be released from inside at any time to destroy more innocent lives? Can he live with himself?
The issue opens with the Hulk on another rampage, leveling an entire town. Corben creates a horrifying version of the Hulk. The essence of the character isn’t changed as much as his intensity is visibly more demented. Even the classic ‘Savage Hulk’ had a childlike behavior, which made you feel for the beast. This Hulk is a ruthless monster, with blood in his eyes; the complete opposite of mild mannered, Bruce Banner. The military is soon called in to investigate the latest Hulk attack. They’re aided by Doctor Samson, who takes control of the entire operation. When told of increasing casualties, Samson responds that at least it will leave less eyewitnesses and then begins to spin the story to his will, while organizing a search team to look for Banner.
Azzarello does a very good job of playing with the two sides of Banner: the kind, humble scientist and the goliath Hulk. With Hellblazer, Azz has shown that he has what it takes to write a psychological horror tale without resorting to gratuitous shots of severed limbs and what not. He carries that intensity to this story. It’s a frightening idea, the 98-pound weakling who transforms into an uncontrollable, raging killing machine at the drop of a hat. Corben’s art seals the deal. He has a way of making even ‘normal’ people look somewhat twisted and disturbed, which is a perfect feeling for this story.
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book since the Hulk isn’t a character that really appeals to me, but the creative team swayed me. They do a very good job of presenting an interesting and unique take on a classic Marvel character, digging deeper into the Jekyll and Hyde theme that’s been part of the character for so long.
This book comes out July 25th. It’s one of the most quietly disturbing books that they’ve published and it’s worth a look.
Grade: A
EXILES #2 $2.25 Marvel Comics
Written by Judd Winick and illustrated by Mike McKone and Mike McKenna.
What kind of a world is it where I’m enjoying so many titles with an X in them? From X-Force to New X-Men to Ultimate X-Men, and now Exiles, I’ve regressed several years down to fanboy status. It’s hard not to get excited about these books given the caliber of the creative teams involved. Take this one, for example. Written by Pulitzer Prize nominee Judd Winick (Barry Ween, Pedro and Me, Green Lantern), the series is a fun free for all, which spans hundreds of timelines and alternate realities. With that kind of open playing field, it’s easy to see that Winick is having a blast writing this.
The best way to explain the series is to think about it as a cross between Quantum Leap and Mission Impossible with superheroes added to the fray. The mysterious being summons these heroes together from various realities and timelines, and they’re specifically chosen because of their powers and histories with the mission involved. They must then go to the desired reality and ‘fix’ it. When the mission is completed, they leap on to the next mission.
This issue wraps up the two-part, opening story where the team is on a world where Professor X is the most dangerous person alive and they need to find a way to stop him and set things back on their proper course, preferably staying alive at the same time. Readers are treated to an action packed issue that also examines the problems that exist when you try and clear away all that you know in order to focus on what is ‘real’ in the reality you’re in. McKone and McKenna make a good team. They compliment Winick’s writing well and don’t slack on the details, whether it’s a shot of the team in battle or a scene of massive destruction. Few artists seem to realize that comic readers appreciate detail, but these two deliver the goods.
Winick has the entire history of the Marvel Universe at his disposal, as well as his own imagination and talent to come up with whatever he sees fit. It helps to be a Marvel fan, as you’d be more familiar with the characters and situations/stories where they came from, but the stories speak for themselves in the end. This series is proving to be anything but boring. And the possibilities, well they’re endless.
Grade: B
MARVEL BOY Trade Paperback $15.95
Written by Grant Morrison and illustrated by JG Jones and Sean Parsons, this trade collects the entire 6-issue mini-series that was under the Marvel Knights banner last year. Morrison’s first comic for Marvel is more subdued than his usual work, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t intense by Marvel standards (or what Marvel standards were when the series was first published). Over the top violence, humor from tragic situations and social satire all presented in a cinematic, summer movie style.
The Marvel Boy in question is Noh-Varr, a member of the Kree Diplomatic team who sees his friends and loved ones killed, leaving him the sole survivor, stranded on the planet Earth. Not one to take things lying down, Noh-Varr seeks to settle the score with the people responsible, which means putting a hurting on Earthlings, particularly those affiliated with the Midas Corporation, whose employer was responsible for attacking Noh-Varr’s ship.
I should point out, since this is a trade paperback, that the paper quality of the book is very impressive. Matt Ryan, who designed the book, deserves credit for putting together a very good-looking read. With the combination of Jones’ art, which is fantastic, and the brilliant and vivid colors, it’s just one of those collections that is as much fun to look at as it is to read. With 6 issues worth of comics and a fine presentation of the material, you’re getting more than 16 dollars worth of comic book here.
It’s an action story. No, it’s a love story. No, it’s a social commentary on corporate fascism. No, it’s all these things and more and you’ll be hard pressed to find any new trades coming out this summer that match the style and intensity that this one has.
Grade: B+
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Hey folks, Harry here... Now personally my favorite THOR story has to do with that whole Absorbing Man 3 book arc from way back in the days of Kirby, but maybe just maybe you and your pencil could illustrate your way into redefining the character (not that I think anyone anywhere is gonna top Kirby's great run on the character.... Here's the Try-Out info.... Have at it!!!
THOR PLOT FOR THE MIGHTY MARVEL TALENT SEARCH!
Okay, all you budding artists, as Joe Quesada announced weeks ago, we're looking for new blood to pump into The House! And when I say "new," remember that we don't care how old you are -- we just care how good you are! So here's how all of you pencilers (who have never been published before) can not only enter The House, but can actually land a gig drawing an upcoming issue of THOR!
1. Print out the following sample plot.
2. Pencil your heart out!
3. Bring your pages -- or ultra clean copies -- to the Marvel booth at the San Diego comic convention! The cool con runs from Wednesday, July 18th, to Sunday, July 22nd. And make sure your work has your name, address, phone number and/or e-mail address on it!
4. Cross your fingers!
And as for all you wannabe writers, remember to bring a one-page (or less) pitch for an 8-page Thor story to the San Diego con, too! The story doesn't have to star the Thunder God himself -- it can star the Warriors Three, Loki... or heck, even Jane Foster -- but since it will appear in an issue of THOR, it should in some way comment on the Asgardian Avenger. Just think, if your pitch is picked, you could land a job writing your back-up story for us!
[And never fear, the sample plot starring Logan (which you can use to land an issue of WOLVERINE at the WizardWorld convention in August) will be sent out shortly!]
That's It! So what are you waiting for? Get crackin'!
* PAGE 1:
An establishing shot of cosmic space.
A twinkling effect opens in space....
Which explodes into a burst of light. It's a Thor-created rift, opening up.
Big Panel: Thor and a homeless man who thinks he's Heimdall are landing on a small portion of what's left of the Rainbow bridge, which is just a tattered, jagged end that connects to the remains of Asgard. "Heimdall" is amazed and astonished at the sight. Asgard is visible, but it's a shambles. Every single golden tower is at least partially destroyed and the city itself should look as though it's been deserted for years.
* PAGE 2:
Pull the camera way back to show Thor and "Heimdall" standing, small in the shot, on the edge of the bridge. The real focus of this shot is Asgard itself, which is a complete shambles. The shot should be rife with emotion here... a sense of loss.
Closer on the two. "Heimdall" is babbling. "This... this..." Thor says, "What sayest thou, Heimdall? Is it not a sight to cripple even the most courageous and noble of men?"
"Heimdall" drops to his knees. "It's not... I mean... oh, oh..." Thor doesn't quite understand what's happening. "Thou art overcome. Natural enough for one charged with guarding the gates of Asgard, when faced with its ruination." "Heimdall" says, "I know... at last I konw... I remember."
Close on "Heimdall" as he whispers, "I've never been here before. It's too much... just too much..."
* PAGE 3:
Thor stands over him and screams, "Thou didst lie?!"
Thor throws his head back in rage and screams! in the past year he was taken from this world... this universe!
Then he whirls Mjolnir, yelling about how he was gone when Asgard was destroyed...
...and he throws it into the heart of the golden city itself! Still yelling about how everyone he's known and cared about--his father, Sif, etc.—is gone!
The hammer tears through a shattered and broken spire in a tremendous burst. Thor's voice from off panel alludes to his life being shattered as well.
Mjolnir sails back to Thor's hand. Thor has calmed now.
* PAGE 4:
He turns to the false Heimdall, who's on his knees, sobbing. Thor says, "Thou hast my sincere apology. What is thy name?"
"Heimdall" says, "I... don't know. I just want to go home. To the safe place." Thor kneels beside him in compassion and says, "Then home is where we shall journey. I know not where your proper home is, but I know of one who will find you safe haven!"
They stand, and Thor says they have both experienced loss. Fabled Asgard is no more. Those who were gods are lost... perhaps dead.
He begins to spin his hammer, a vortex forming around the two of them. Thor says that it's the duty of gods to protect those who cannot fend for themselves.
And then they are gone, the silent ruins of Asgard behind them.
(Legal Stuff = The above plot, Thor (and all prominant characters featured in this plot and the distinctive likenesses therof) is a trademark of MARVEL CHARACTERS, INC. Copyright 2001 Marvel Characters, Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
