Review - Lobster Johnson: The Glass Mantis

Lobster Johnson: The Glass Mantis (One Shot) -

Dark Horse Comics

Written by Mike Mignola & John Arcudi

Art by Toni Fejzula 

Letters by Clem Robins

Cover by Tonci Zonjic

Fact or fiction can be a tricky thing in the comic book world.  Especially when you're dealing with a character in a comic that is thought to be a fictional comic book legend.  Lobster Johnson is very real, and Dark Horse has given him his own spotlight outside of the world of Hellboy.  His mission can definitely be described as unique.

It's hard to find too many unique storylines these days, but if this book excels at one thing, it's that.  Set in the 1930s, Lobster Johnson finds himself investigating a shooting at an exhibit of a Turkish artist and glass blowers in New York.  There's something I bet you thought you'd never see.  It's after the shooting where things get really interesting.  It gets tot he point where you feel like nobody is who you thought they were, and you end up being right.  Great part is, for a one shot, this comic is full of surprise reveals.  Without spoiling anything, the actual investigation takes a major turn mid-story and leads to a whirlwind action sequence at the end.  It's still a Hellboy story, so what happens at the end may not surprise you, but it was an interesting finish.

Having Mike Mignola writing part of this story really adds credibility and authenticity, since he created "The Lobster" originally.  For a period piece it didn't feel like the character traits were trying to force that issue.  The art by Fejzula had a noir quality that did a fine job of transporting you to a pre-World War II era New York all on it's own.  If this book does have one minor failing, it's that it ends on a bit of a cliffhanger.  For a one shot, I expected a bit more of a conclusion.  Good news is...I WANTED that conclusion.  To me that's the mark of a good book that, I hope, revisits this case at some point.  Hellboy fan or not, you'll enjoy this.

RATING:  BUY  

Review - Dreaming Eagles

Dreaming Eagles #1 - 

Aftershock Comics

 

Written by Garth Ennis

Art by Simon Colby

Colors by John Kalisz

Letters by Rob Steen

Cover by Francesco Francavilla 

 

You've heard us talk about the impressive creative teams lined up by Aftershock Comics, but now it's time to see what they've got.  Dreaming Eagles is their fourth new release of the month of December, rounding out their initial round of releases.  This one takes a huge risk, question is, does it pay off?

 

This story is billed by Aftershock as a story of "first African American fighter pilots to join the United States Army Air Force in WWII."  I quote that because, I feel like this first issue was so much more than that.  It dealt with race relations in 1960s America and the different perspectives between the African-American youth and their parents during that time period.  We see the story of former pilot Reggie Atkinson and his son who is very interested in the words being spoken by Martin Luther King, Jr.  We go back and forth between flashbacks of Reggie's days as a pilot and the present day relationship with his family.  The two things intertwine, leading to Reggie eventually deciding to tell his son his story inside and outside of that plane.

 

The tension in this series, especially in the early pages, is so gripping.  Ennis has done wartime aviation stories in the past, but the depth he adds to this particular story may be one of his best yet.  You really feel what's going on with these characters, and you really get a good look at Reggie's mindset.  The art, especially in the flashback scenes, was very solid.  What I love here is that everyone involved wasn't afraid to take a risk on telling a story about race relations and inspired by a true story.  If these are the kinds of comics that Aftershock is going to publish, they will become a major player in the industry over time.

 

RATING:  PULL

Review - Ninjak #10

Ninjak #10 - 
Valiant Entertainment

Written by Matt Kindt
Art by Doug Braithwaite
Colors by Brian Reber (w/ Soto)
Letters by Taylor Esposito

You have heard us praise all aspects of Ninjak before, whether it was in Book of Death or in his ongoing series.  If you were looking for a good place to jump on board, this is it.  Issue 10 begins the Operation: Deadside arc and brings in a different cast of characters.  To me, this does change the mood of the series a little bit.  First, let's dive into the story itself.

A top secret MI-6 facility has been destroyed and led to a prisoner escape.  A mission into a parallel dimension went wrong, and now Ninjak must follow the only agent to make it back home back to the Deadside to find the team.  To say this is a rough go for Ninjak is an understatement.  For someone who is typically such a tough character, he really has a tough time with this journey.  Maybe it's the new suit?  I did love to X-O Manowar joke about that.  After having a rough entry, there is a confrontation with the escaped prisoner.  It's quick and it doesn't go well.  To be more specific, it almost turns into the strangest Uber ride ever that leads them exactly where they wanted to go.  What they see, wasn't necessarily shocking, but definitely strange.

While I do love the character, I think they went a little outside of what Ninjak normally presents.  This badass assassin really doesn't have an easy time in the other dimension.  I don't know if it's unfamiliar surroundings or what, but Ninjak is quiet pedestrian in this issue.  His counterpart (which I won't spoil should you read the issue) definitely looks like the stronger of the two.  Braithwaite's art is stunning, as always, giving such great attention to every detail.  I'll also give a nod to Reber's colors, which made all the mystical and action scenes pop.  I guess I am just trying to get past how weak Ninjak seemed in this issue.  There was also a case file narration in the issue that I found a bit distracting.  We'll see what happens in Issue 11, but I'm not giving up on this one.

RATING:  PICK-UP 

Review - Batman/TMNT #1

Batman/TMNT #1

DC Comics/IDW Publishing

Written by James Tynion IV

Art by Freddie Williams II

Colors by Jeremy Colwell

Letter by Tom Napolitano

 

If you would've told me a few years ago we would get a comic with Batman and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles together, I would have laughed in your face.  Now here we are with the Turtles in Gotham!  This was the series I was looking most forward to after it was announced at SDCC this past year.  Question is, would it live up to the hype?

 

We definitely get a good amount of time with both the Turtles and Batman, with each of them crossing paths with a villain from the other's mythos.  In classic Batman fashion, he isn't sure if the Turtles are friends or foes as he goes about his investigation.  Major components are being stolen from Gotham research facilities, and it's not clear why.  While that's going on, we're trying to find out why the Turtles are in Gotham in the first place.  That wasn't made clear, but it becomes somewhat secondary once you get caught up in the story.

 

 I thought the challenge here would be the ability of Tynion IV to take on all of these iconic characters.  We've seen how well he's written Batman in the past, and I must say, he captured the personality of each Turtle very well.  The mix of humor and grit was perfectly melded together throughout the story, with the action elements falling perfectly throughout the story.  The art from Williams II is solid and STRONG.  Each major character was really given a chance to be larger than life on the page, including the villains (who I won't spoil for you, so you can see for yourself.)  You really get a sense that great care was taken to make sure each of these fan favorites were allowed to share pages together, without feeling like one was out shining the other.  I can't wait to read more!

 

RATING:  PULL 

Review - Garfield's Cheesy Holiday Special (One Shot)

Garfield's Cheesy Holiday Special (One Shot) -

KaBOOM!

Part One

Written by Mark Evanier     Art by Andy Hirsch

Part Two

Written by Scott Nickel     Art by David DeGrand

Colors by Lisa Moore

Letters by Steve Wands

Cover by Andy Hirsch

Holiday specials are one of my favorite things about the Christmas season.  It takes you back to your childhood, and for that short amount of time, makes you feel like a kid again at Christmas.  Being a big Garfield fan, I jumped at the chance to read this Cheesy Holiday Special!  You get two different stories in the issue, along with a few classic comic strips at the end.

The first story really felt like an episode of the Garfield & Friends animated series.  Jon gets a job as Santa at a store, and as it usually does, it takes Garfield and Odie on a wild adventure.  For a moment in this story there's moment that will leave you saying, "REALLY GARFIELD!?"  I won't spoil what happens in the next panel, just keep going.  The story does take an oddly serious tone near the end, but the message is a pretty good one.

The second story, for me, just didn't hold my interest.  The art was vastly different from the first story, as well.  Having an evil lasagna plotting against Garfield is a good idea in theory, but just didn't play off well to me.  They even try to break the 4th wall a couple of times, and it fell a little flat.  I get that this isn't really geared towards adults, but as a long time fan of Garfield, this story just seemed out of place.

The classic strips speak for themselves, and serve as a reminder of the joys the Sunday paper used to bring.  This book as a whole definitely had it's ups and downs, but was definitely able to bring some holiday spirit.  Evanier definitely captures the Jim Davis spirit of Garfield, and the colors by Moore are solid throughout.  If you don't mind a slight misstep in the middle, I think there's a chance you'll enjoy this with your kids.

RATING:  PICK UP

Review - Ghostbusters Annual (2015)

Ghostbusters Annual (2015) - 

IDW Publishing

Written by Erik Burnham

Art by Dan Schoening

Colors by Luis Antonio Delgado 

 

Strap on those proton packs, because this is a supersized issue!  I felt like this was the perfect time to pick up a Ghostbusters comic from IDW and see if it reminded me of the classic films.  What was great about this annual is, they give you a quick recap of what's been happening and give you the ability to dive right into this new story.  Unfortunately, things are not great for the guys early on.

 

The Firehouse is in shambles from their previous battle, and focus seems to be on the future, until a case comes walking through the door.  Since he's on the cover, I can tell you that it is the Sandman.  What I love is that they definitely add a creepy factor to the Sandman that you wouldn't expect from a book that's so lighthearted.  There is some tension during a battle in the middle of the issue that makes you REALLY wonder if something is about to happen to one of your favorite characters.  What's great is that, you get the sense that these are the characters that you know and love, not just some comic book knock offs.  Their personalities are captured well, but I will say Winston is a bit more grumpy than you'll remember him.

 

With this comic, you get a great main story, but you also get even more.  There are a bunch of one shot comic strips towards the end of the book from different artists and writers that are very entertaining.  The main story itself definitely makes you want to see where it's going beyond this one issue.  With all the change surrounding the Ghostbusters movie franchise, this series may be a good place for you to find your center.

 

RATING:  BUY/PULL  

Review - Orphan Black: Helsinki #1

Orphan Black: Helsinki #1 -

IDW Publishing

Written By John Fawcett

                   Graeme Manson 

                   Heli Kennedy

                   Denton J. Tipton

Art By Alan Quah

Inks Assisted By Jeffrey Huet

Colors By Chris Fenoglio

Letters By  Neil Uyetake

 

As someone who has just started getting into the Orphan Black series (and loving it so far), I have been looking for an opportunity to jump into the new comics IDW.  Not only is this an opportunity to do that, but it's a chance to dive into the codename Helsinki!  The clones of Project Leda are in danger, and they may not even know it yet.

 

The story follows Veera Suominen, and it starts off very much like the first season of the Orphan Black series.  Veera has no idea she is a clone, but a shocking discovery at home leads her to find that out.  Right away you're disgusted by the actions in the first few pages, but as you keep reading, you can't help but think back and wonder what the true motives were.  The difference in this story is that, unlike Sarah in the TV series, Veera is very unsure of herself and socially awkward.  This is making it difficult to carry our her plan, despite the fact that she's very smart.  Then final page is very awkward for everyone involved, but definitely adds to the shock factor of the situation.

 

At first I was concerned with the number of writers working on this series, but those fears were quickly put to rest.  Involving a couple of the creators of the show definitely add to the continuity and authenticity of the story, and how it may tie in to the series.  The art is very good, especially in a story where facial expressions are key for adding tension to the story.  Even if you haven't watched the show, I believe this is a series you could still read and not be lost.  As someone who hasn't gotten past the first season of the show myself, I was not lost and really enjoyed it.  I think you will, too!

 

RATING:  PULL/BUY 

Review - Last Sons Of America #1

Last Sons of America - 

Boom Studios

 

Written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson

Art by Matthew Dow Smith

Colors by Doug Garbark

Letters by Jim Campbell

Cover by Tonci Zonjic

 

As the proud parent of a one year old, I could not imagine a world without my child.  Now imagine that the ability to have children was taken away from...everyone.  What would happen to society?  That's what Boom Studios tackles with Last Sons of America #1.  A terrorist attack in the United States has left every family unable to have children.  Now adoption from foreign countries is the only option.

 

The story follows two adoption agents, Jackie and Julian, who are trying to convince parents poor parents in Nicaragua that their children could have a better life.  As you might expect, it's not a very easy task and they're struggling.  One thing I found in this issue is, one character is far more likable than the other.  I would even go as far as to say, you will really dislike Jackie before the end of the issue.  You know how the saying goes, desperate times call for desperate measures.  Well Jackie does something, and it sets up a MAJOR plot point going forward with the big reveal at the end.

 

The story is very solid and intriguing by Johnson.  The way he skillfully crafts this world after such a tragic attack, and sets the mood of all the parties involved, definitely hooks you in this issue.  Even if you see the twist coming, the end result still leaves you wanting to read more.  I wish the amazing cover art by Tonci Zonjic continued into the pages of the story, but Smith takes great care in crafting just the right expression to match the situation.  It's not perfect, but it doesn't make you want to put the book down either.  As you read the story, whether you're a parent or not, it really does make you wonder what it would be like if this really happened.  The questions really start to pop up in your mind as you read, and to me, that is good and engaging storytelling.

 

RATING:  PULL/BUY  

Review - Call of Duty: Black Ops III #1

Call of Duty: Black Ops III #1

Dark Horse Comics

 

Written by Larry Hama

Art by Marcelo Ferreira

Colors by Dan Jackson

Letters by Michael Heisler

Cover by Benjamin Carre

 

  

It's no secret that Call of Duty is one of the most popular first person shooters of all time in the video game world.  Continuing a recent trend, Dark Horse it putting out this comic as a prelude to the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops III.  Larry Hama is definitely the go-to guy when it comes to military and warfare style stories, and he's well known for his work on G.I. Joe for IDW.  This, however, is a little different.

 

We start out with our soldiers trying to procure arms to complete the mission they are given to take down a target trafficking drugs and women.  If you're a fan of military jargon and weapons specs, you will definitely enjoy the early pages of this book.  If not, or you just plain aren't sure what they're talking about, this book will drag for you a bit.   Once we get that out of the way, and we learn a little more about the target, the action really starts to pick up.  Early on it's almost like there is a tease of action, but we finally get some towards the end.  We do see a surprising death in this book, and a mystery enemy that we really don't get to learn much about (other than the fact that everyone seems to be scared to death of her.)

 

 There is nothing wrong with Hama's writing, but the structure of the story in the first half is a little all over the place.  There is some humor, mostly the guys ripping on each other, which matches the subject matter very well.  The art by Ferreira is very good.  It's not easy to manage all the players when the bullets start flying, but the stop motion panels are very fluid and detailed.  The only pitfall of this story is that, there has to be somewhat of a disconnect when the writer of the game is not writing the comics.  This is a prequel, so there doesn't have to be too much continuity.  At the same time, if the intent is to tie in to the game, it's hard for someone on the outside to come in and adapt to someone else's story.  If you're getting this book because you love Call of Duty, you won't be disappointed.  If you're looking for an in-depth story with a great story, this probably isn't going to work for you.

 

RATING: PICK UP 

Review - James Bond #1

James Bond #1

Dynamite Entertainment

Written by Warren Ellis

Art by Jason Masters

Colors by Guy Major

Letters by Simon Bowland

 

With Spectre about to hit theaters, Dynamite has their very timely release of the new James Bond comics.  If you're expecting Daniel Craig to jump off the page, think again.  We see an entirely different Bond on the page, and the characters that surround him seem to echo that.  

 

The first few pages have no dialogue, but the fluid movements and the art really catch your interest right away.  We then find out why 007 was pursuing this man, which leads into the main plot of the story.  A 00 agent has been killed and now M has assigned their caseload to Bond.  What's a little strange is, there seems to be a lack of respect for our favorite secret agent.  I'm not saying the folks at MI-6 have always fallen at Bond's feet, but it almost seems like people are going out of their way to tell him how great he's not.  Still, as I was reading, I found it refreshing that we're getting a less dark and more lighthearted version of 007.  Not quite a suave (at least not in this issue), but almost more of a youthful cockiness and sarcastic tone.

 

It wouldn't be a Bond story without a little bit of intrigue.  Ellis definitely leaves us hanging on some of the details on the "big bad" in this issue, but gives you just enough to want to keep going with the story.  His take on Bond, while different, definitely works and seems like more a throwback to a 70s era Bond story.  The art by Masters is consistent, and has some nice detail in the action sequences.  You may not be shaken or stirred by this issue, but you will want to stick with this journey at least a little bit longer.

 

RATING: PICK UP  

Review - Cognetic #1

Cognetic #1 (of 3)

Boom! Studios

Written by James Tynion IV

Art by Eryk Donovan

Colors by Juan Manuel Tumburus

Letters by Steve Wands

They've tired to end the world before, and they're back for another crack at it.  This time, it's an apocalypse of the mind created by James Tynion IV and Eryk Donovan.  You might remember they went down the "end of the world" road before with Memetic, but this time, it's different.  A major psychic power is taking over everyone it comes into contact with.  We find out later on, that's not quite the case.

After a somewhat odd first few pages, we start to follow Annie.  She's the assistant to the Director of the FBI, and a family woman.  It seems normal until something unthinkable starts happening in New York City at a major landmark.  As you go page by page, you get a sense that this is quite likely what would be going on behind the scenes of a mass casualty event started happening in a major city.  There's one question that always lingered in the back of my mind when I was reading this...why?  Why is this happening?  How are these people being "chosen" and how are they simply being taken over?  I remember having somewhat of a similar feeling when I would watch "Lost" at times.  Then we get to the big twist at the end.  While it was interesting, it just left with more questions.

Even though this comic takes a few pages to start picking up steam, Tynion IV definitely creates a story with plenty of drama and it really makes you think.  At the same time, there are more than a few moments that even the most educated reader will ask, "What the hell is going on here exactly?"  The art by Donovan is solid, and the detail in the facial expressions of the characters really helps to sell the emotion of what is going on in the moment.  This story is definitely for the patient reader.  This is one you'll really have to stick with, but even I find myself unsure of what the payoff will be.  I can't help by be intrigued by the final panel, and with two over-sized issues to go, I think I'll ride this one out and see what happens.

RATING: PICK UP 

Review - GI Joe: Cobra World Order Prelude

GI Joe: Cobra World Order Prelude

IDW Publishing

Written by Larry Hama

Art by S L Gallant

Inks by Brian Shearer

Colors by J. Brown

Letters by Shawn Lee

 

Welcome to the world of G.I. Joe!  Wait...aren't we over 200 issues in?  In this Cobra World Order Prelude from IDW, you get a grand tour of the new Joe base and somewhat of a recap of what's been going on.  This is not a reboot, but certainly feels like an issue that familiarizes readers with the world of the Joes and Cobra from the characters to the plotlines.  In case you're wondering, yes there is a reason for it.

 

A new Senator has been named to the oversight committee, and has brought her assistant along to inspect the new Pit.  Not surprising, there is something very suspicious about one of the visitors that prompts action from the team.  The word "action" is used loosely, but the clever nature of the rouse makes you appreciate it.  Duke may be good at pulling the wool over the eyes of the enemy, but should probably save the jokes for those more qualified.

 

This is definitely an issue where a new reader could jump in and be ready for the Cobra World Order arc when it starts.  Much like the Joes themselves, I like that IDW has kept the team of Hama and Gallant together going forward with this new arc.  The art is very consistently good, and the dialogue written for each character definitely captures what made the original animated series great.  Being a prelude, it's hard to get a grasp on where the story is going from here or what to expect going forward.  There is a hint at possible relationships between several different terror groups, but nothing too definitive.  Even though the title is Cobra World Order, something tells me they won't be the only focal point of the arc going forward.  If you have enjoyed the G.I. Joe comics up until this point, you'll definitely be keeping this in your pull.  If you're a new reader, this may be the issue where you can jump in and give the series a shot.

 

RATING: Pick Up 

Review - Batman & Robin Eternal #1

Batman & Robin Eternal #1

DC Comics 

Story by Scott Snyder & James Tynion IV

Script by James Tynion IV

Pencils by Tony Daniel

Inks by Sandu Florea

Colors by Tomeu Morey

Letters by Tom Napolitano

 

No way that just happened!  That's what I kept saying as I read Batman & Robin Eternal #1.  Right in the first few pages, you understand why they added Robin to this second Eternal story.  Every Robin (aside from Carrie Kelly for obvious reasons) was seen or referenced in this first issue.  Dick Grayson is featured prominently, and it looks like he will be the main focus of this series right now.  Yes, this does follow the current DC Comics continuity from Grayson, the main Batman run and so on.   Fans of  characters like Bluebird and the new Batman will not be disappointed either.  Bruce Wayne, however, still has a major part in this debut issue.

 

One of the things I loved about this were the flashbacks to when Dick was Robin, but little did I know, those flashbacks would serve a purpose going forward.  It's so hard to give you a plot without giving any spoilers.  Let's just say we have a new villain, everyone is going to be involved and something UNTHINKABLE has happened.  It's another daring trip into the Batman mythology by Scott Snyder, and having James Tynion IV riding shotgun makes it a wild ride I can't wait to take.

 

The art, top to bottom, is very consistent.  The last panel if this comic is something that EVERYONE will be talking about.  Tony Daniel, and many others I'm sure, will be doing commissions on this for a LONG time.  That panel, along with the story leading up to it, is a huge game changer.  In the beginning of the issue you may think, "They're really doing this again?"  I promise you, by the end, you will be saying, "I can't believe that just happened!"  I cannot buy this series fast enough.

 

RATING: PULL/BUY

 

 

Review - Doctor Who: The Tenth Doctor #2.1

DOCTOR WHO: TENTH DOCTOR #2.1

Titan Comics

Written by Nick Abadzis
Art by Eleonora Carlini

Colors by Claudia SG Iannicello

Letters by Richard Starkings & Jimmy Betancourt

The adventure continues for The Doctor and Gabby in the aftermath of the Four Doctors event.  Just when they thought they were going to get a break, the pair find themselves in a place called Wupatki.  The city in the clouds is plagued by a virus that is affecting living musical beings called the Shan'Tee.

There is a lot of setup in the beginning of the issue.  A lot of explanation about what the Shan'Tee are and how the planet lives in harmony.  Once you push through that, things start to escalate rather quickly.  The cause for this virus is somewhat amusing, and may even be a subtle jab at the modern music business.  There was also a little jab about the Wupatki being a place where humans were able to live in harmony with the planet's natives instead of forcing them out.  Sound familiar?

This truly ends up being a "race against time" kind of story, with a climactic pause at the end of this first issue.  This being a two part arc, it almost reminds me of the old Adam West Batman show.  Part one ends in potential disaster with part two being the "epic conclusion".  The art by Carlini won't knock your Tardis over, but it works and has some good detail.  The story was interesting, but it feels like it went from one extreme to another, and I didn't get that sense of danger I was hoping for.  Whovians may be inclined to stick with it, but I will reluctantly have to pass.

RATING:  DROP

Review - Colder: Toss The Bones #1

Colder: Toss The Bones #1

Dark Horse Comics 

Written by Paul Tobin

Art by Juan Ferreyra

Colors Assisted by Eduardo Ferreyra

Letters by Nate Piekos

 

Dark Horse is no stranger to the strange, and that certainly doesn't change in the start of this third volume in the Colder series.  For readers who aren't familiar, the series follows a character named Declan who has been on quite the mental roller coaster ride in the first couple of volumes.  This twisted tale of insanity, between Boston and the Hungry World, does bring back a familiar foe for previous readers, and that's Nimble Jack.

 

Nimble Jack strikes me as a more goth and mysterious version of The Joker.  It's almost how I would imagine Johnny Depp portraying The Joker.  As someone who didn't read a lot of the previous series, I didn't find it hard to pick up on what was going on.  We see Declan and Reece trying to deal with the aftermath of their battle with Swivel, but this issue centers more around Nimble Jack and his plan to regroup.  Problem is...I'm not sure we really get there.  It's truly like watching a psychopath with ADHD go from sadistic idea to idea, before finally saying the hell with it.

 

I'm not saying that's a bad thing.  I actually think the way Tobin weaves Jack's frantic mind is quite admirable.  Tobin's use of hunger as a metaphor on both worlds is also nothing short of brilliant.  One thing I will say is the art is very striking.  Even the subtle details from Juan Ferreyra fly off the page like a runaway pigeon (if you read it, you'll know what I mean there.)  The shift in colors between worlds by the other Ferreyra.  So visually, it's definitely worth the price of admission.  I'm not saying I don't like the writing.  What I'm saying is, it might be hard for new readers to jump right in with an appreciation of these characters right away and where the story is going.  It definitely makes you feel uneasy, and it's supposed to.  If you're a fan of creepy horror, led by a truly mad antagonist, you'll enjoy this.

 

Rating: PICK UP  

Review - Tet #1

Tet #1 - IDW Publishing

Written by Paul Allor

Art by Paul Tucker

Letters by Paul Allor

 

The Vietnam is always an uneasy subject.  It's one of controversy, and in a way, changed our world as we know it.  As we dive into that world, that is exactly what happens to the main character, Eugene.  The narrative is hesitant and emotional, as we travel back to Vietnam in 1968.  In the midst of a war he thinks will be ending, Eugene thinks he may have made a life for himself and his new Vietnamese fiancee (this is how they spell it within the comic.)  Then things take an ugly turn when something happens to Eugene's friend Chip.

 

Unfortunately, this is where the book take a bit of a turn.  I was enjoying the hopeful, and yet heartbreaking, narrative that Paul Allor was creating.  When the plot twist happens, it almost comes with a bit of disappointment.  I'm not saying it won't be interesting going forward, but the story of an American solider in the middle of the Vietnam War during Tet trying to find his way home with a new woman in his life, seemed to spark my interest more.  We even see this twist change Eugene's character, which definitely made him less likable.

 

The art by Tucker seems to be appropriate, given the time period and the setting.  Still, it fell a bit short for me.  There was one panel, which was a close-up on Eugene's fiancee Ha, that was stunning.  The rest seemed, more often than not, emotionless.  I actually got more emotion from the shaky lettering style (yes, that's a compliment) of the book than the art itself.  If you're a history buff, or a fan of war stories, this probably isn't the book for you.  I will say, that if we see a turn back to more of the story about the soldier's personal story, I would definitely be more interested in this book.  My worry is, that is not the overall direction this will be going.

 

Rating: DROP

Review - Tyson Hesse's Diesel #1

Tyson Hesse's Diesel #1
Boom Studios

Written by Tyson Hesse
Art by Tyson Hesse
Colors by Mariel Cartwright
Letters by Jim Campbell

Some people have their head in the clouds.  That is literally, and figuratively, the case for Dee Diesel in this new limited series from Boom Studios.  She is the last of her family line, living in a floating city above the clouds called Peacetowne.  Quickly we find out this is your classic "she's too young to be any good at anything" stories that we tend to see in a lot of animated movies and TV shows...or is it?  There really are a couple of views that readers could take in this story.

Yes Dee is young, and completely full of energy.  The way I see it, you're either going to love Dee for her youthful exuberance or be completely 100% annoyed by her constantly.  For the captain of the ship, it is definitely the latter.  I found Dee mostly charming, and actually reminded me a lot of Vanellope Von Schweetz from Wreck-It Ralph.  She just wants to be great, and she wants people to know it.  Then the issue takes a dramatic turn from her antics to a threat that could destroy the entire floating city.  What happens next may literally drive the course of the remaining issues, we just don't know how yet.

For Tyson Hesse to tackle both the writing and the art in this series was very impressive.  Neither element really suffered, as the humorous dialogue mixed well with the Dragon Ball style art.  I definitely got a good laugh at the titles of a couple of the captain's books and thought Rickets added even more charm and gave Dee someone to talk to.  Much like how Dee is trying to live up to her father, this book has to live up to a lot of the Disney-like storytelling that it seems to be embarking on.  Call me cautiously optimistic that it works out for the better.

Rating: PICK UP 

Review - Plutona #1

(Cover image via imagecomics.com)

Plutona #1 - Image Comics

Written by Jeff Lemire & Emi Lenox

Art by Emi Lenox

Colors by Jordie Bellair

Letters by Steve Wands

When you're looking for a story that's relatable, character driven and real...you turn to Jeff Lemire.  His ability to make you care about his characters never ceases to amaze me, and Plutona is no exception.  In this story we follow a group of students, who I can only assume are in Middle School, as they go about what they think will be a normal day in a world filled with superheroes.  As is often the case, that is about to take a very real and nasty turn.

When the book starts out, and we meet each character, one of the main things that jumps out to me is how busy the parents are in each case.  All kids crave attention from their parents, and each other, but this common bond is what really make these character interactions work and shape each one of them.  Ray comes from a more abusive household, which clearly makes him the jerk of the group.  Mie is your typical annoyed older sister, forced to look after her brother.  Then there's Teddy, who seems to be the dreamer of the group.

As you read through this book, each one of these kids brings something to the table.  The art by Emi Lenox is the perfect pair, and really helps drive the story without a single word on the page.  Superheroes are the celebrities here, which is a tone we have seen before in some movies and/or books.  What makes this different is the shocking first few panels and the conclusion that follows.  This book is NOT what you will expect, and that is a good thing.  Lemire continues to be one of the most consistent writers in the business, and Lenox clearly shows the potential to be a huge star going forward.  Where do we go from here?  You'll want to find out.

RATING: PULL 

Review - Doctor Fate #3

(Image from our Amazon store.)

Doctor Fate (2015) #3 - DC Comics

Written by Paul Levitz

Art by Sonny Liew

Colors by Lee Loughridge

Letters by Nick J. Napolitano

Anyone who has been reading Doctor Fate since the first issue comes out knows that Khalid, the one chosen to wear the Helmet of Fate, is still getting used to it.  To be more specific, used to being a hero and seeing himself as someone who can save the world.   In the third issue it seems he's finally getting the hang of it...sort of.  His family should be in turmoil after what happened with his father, but no one really seems rattled.  That is, except for Khalid's father, who sense something very evil is at work.

We do get to see him gain confidence when he is able to do something that he couldn't do in the previous issue with his new found powers.  You get the sense that this book is about to make a turn to a more confident hero.  Levitz has balanced that very well with the fact that we are talking about a kid who is supposed to be starting med school.  Being educated and logical, he can't wrap his mind around the fact that he's wearing this crazy talking helmet and he can now fly.  I would like to see more of a dark and evil tone from Anubis in future issues, to give things a real sense of doom.

So far, this series really has felt like one, long #1 issue.  I'm not saying that's a bad thing, but I do think the transition needs to be made soon with a clear path set going forward.  As someone who has always loved Doctor Fate, it's nice to see a different take on the character and take him back almost a Year One.  The art from Sonny Liew has definitely grown on me more and more now that we're three issues in.  Nick J. Napolitano's letters really make this book pop and give it that ancient Egyptian feel that they're going for.  If you're a Fate fan, or just of Egyptian mythology, this is a pull for you.  If you're not sure, it's definitely still worth picking up.

Rating: PICK-UP 

Review - Swords of Sorrow: Vampirella & Jennifer Blood #4

Swords of Sorrow: Vampirella & Jennifer Blood #4 (of 4) - Dynamite Comics
Written by Nancy Collins
Art by Dave Acosta
Colors by Valentina Pinto
Letters by Erica Schultz
Cover by Billy Tan

The tie-ins to the big Swords of Sorrow arc from Dynamite are starting to wrap up.  Vampirella once again teams up, albeit reluctantly, with Jennifer Blood keep their swords from Chastity and the Prince.  It seems the attempt to pit them against each other didn't work out so well.  Problem is, what should have felt like an epic final battle, seemed to fall a bit short.

Chastity just was not a convincing villain to me, and at no point did I feel our two heroes were ever in any real danger.  There was a point where Jennifer Blood runs out of bullets, which I did feel was a nice way to add some tension.  Still, even in a back and forth battle with Vampirella and Chastity, at no point did I feel like things weren't going to work out.  You still want some sense of peril or the sense that this may turn things in the bigger arc.  Even the end of the issue, at the climax of the showdown, it didn't have that wow factor.

Nancy Collins does to a great job with Jennifer Blood, who seemed to steal the show in this final issue.  I found myself more interested in her pages, which is ironic, because Collins has done a masterful job in writing Vampirella solo for years.  The art by Dave Acosta is very consistent, and the action sequences played out well.  If this were anything but a conclusion, I would have enjoyed this issue much more.  If this were, say, a halfway point in the arc, I would give this issue high praise.  As a conclusion, this issue falls a little flat for me.  It does assist the main arc, which serves the purpose of a tie-in, but not enough to race out and grab this off the shelf.

Rating: DROP/SKIP

Review - Midnight Society: The Black Lake #2

Midnight Society: The Black Lake #2
Dark Horse Comics
Written by Drew Edward Johnson
Art by Drew Edward Johnson
Colors by Lizzy John
Letters by Steve Dutro

The mystery at Loch Ness continues!  If you didn't read Issue 1 of this series, you'll definitely want to back track before trying to jump in to the second issue.  The story really centers around Secret Agent Matilda Finn, joined by Submarine Diver Billy Wetherell and the search for a lost research team that went looking for the infamous Loch Ness Monster.  Drew Edward Johnson really does well letting his words drive the story in one moment, and his art take control in the next.  It's this back and forth that really draws you in as the story goes on.

I cannot stress the word "Secret" enough when it comes to Matilda.  We get a SMALL sense of her past and her motivations in this issue, but all it does is let you know there are more questions that will have to be answered later on in the series.  Right away, you can tell she is "different" and you'll know why in the first few panels.  Both Matilda and Billy really question each of their motives for being on the mission, but it turns out one of them definitely has more reason to be suspicious.

As you read you know this book is building towards something big, and boy does it deliver!  For me, this was almost like watching the final act of the original Jaws...only this is far from over.  It does drag a bit in the early going, but the payoff was well worth the wait.  The colors by Steve Dutro really help set off Drew Edward Johnson's art, making you feel like you're in a very dark and dangerous place throughout.  Combining mystery, science and suspense so well, I think Dark Horse has found a winner with this creator owned project.

Rating: PULL

  

Review - Bloodshot Reborn #5

Welcome to our BRAND NEW online reviews!  We hope you enjoy reading about what comics Nick and I are reading as much as you do listening to them.  Without further delay, let's dive in and see what else I'm reading.

 

Bloodshot Reborn #5
Written by Jeff Lemire
Art by Raul Allen & Patricia Martin
Additional Colors by Borja Pindado
Cover by Raul Allen 

The more and more you read Bloodshot from Valiant, the more you can understand why he will be the first one to have a feature film from the publisher.  Ever since the first issue of this series, you can really feel for Bloodshot as he gets pulled slowly back into his old life.  The way that Lemire writes the internal monologue in this series is fantastic.  Then that gets mirrored by Raul Allen in the art, bringing those feeling out (and boy did they come out in this issue!)  It's not easy to make the reader REALLY care about the characters, but you really do in this series.

Ray has been on the edge of losing it since the end of Issue 1.  Part of the reason for that is Bloodsquirt, check that, it's a major reason.  With each passing issue I find myself wishing Bloodsquirt would be taken care of.  Well now there's more tension than ever with the addition of Magic, who Ray picked up in the last issue.  You really get the sense that she will be very important going forward.  Bloodshot needs that comfort zone, and he's not finding that with the figments of Kay (who is pushing him to kill Magic.)  SOMEBODY doesn't make it to the end of this issue.  When that happens, it changes everything.  Then there's that folder with Ray's true identity.  Who IS Bloodshot?  You do NOT want to miss the end of this issue.

Every time Ray hunts down another nanite infected psychopath, much like his blood, you feel this series building more and more to an exciting conclusion.  Introducing Magic into the mix added even more intrigue to an already gripping story.  The pacing by Lemire in the story borders on perfection.  Matched with the vivid detail and attention that Allen gives to each page, this is a can't miss series for me.

Rating:  PULL

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