Welcome back, Donist World Denizens! For those of you new to our site, I’m Donist, and I am joined by Donist World CFO the Reverse Obie* (my friends’ Boston terrier whose fur recently swapped colors) and by our marketing director / administrative assistant / party planner / bathday-Bostie Tulip (my dog, Reverse Obie’s sister). It’s been another one of those weeks, Denizens. You know, like when you get home, the sun’s still up, and you think, dang, I could totally go to sleep right now. Only we didn’t do that. Instead, Tulip and Reverse Obie decided to treat me to a spa day. The thing is, a spa day to my puppy executive team is pouring me an IPA, turning on some Mitch Murder, and drawing me a bath at home; it’s the thought that counts. Anyhow, they took off running shortly afterwards in case I decided to treat them to baths, but that’s fine, it gave me plenty of time to reflect on this week’s books while amidst the gingerbread scented bubbles. So, while I drape this hot, damp cloth over my weary eyes and let Calgon take me away, grab a tasty beer or a hot green tea, relax, and while you’re at it check out some great comics. Thank you for reading!
*Obie, through his dabbling in arcane magics mixed with ancient corrupt business practices, has had not just the colors of his fur switched, but a complete overhaul of his work ethic as well…I think I’m kinda okay with the mishap.
Written by Rick Remender, illustrated by Jerome Opeña, colored by Matt Hollingsworth, lettered by Rus Wooton, edited by Sebastian Girner, published by Image Comics. Every time a new issue of this spectacular series is released, my heart races in anticipation of discovering what new torment awaits the seven on their quest to end the reign of the "God of Whispers” once and for all; at six issues in I have yet to be disappointed. Seven to Eternity is high fantasy at its finest with an impressive cast of characters, races, beasts, and rules of magic that slowly become more apparent as the series progresses.
Remender and Opeña have quickly introduced us to the few surviving members of the Mosak Knights long enough to enchant us with their strange abilities and their amazing designs while giving only enough insight into their backgrounds and motivations to keep us desperate to know more. But don’t get too attached to any of these characters as some have already perished in their fight to destroy the Mud King. At this point, I wouldn’t even count Adam Osidis, the dying protagonist of the series, to make it all the way through to the end, and I find myself nervous for everyone’s survival with each turn of the page. In fact, I wish we had a series of one-shots for each character in this book. I want to know how Spiritbox served and betrayed the Mud King and how he is able to call forth beast-like swords, or what the deal is with the blue-glow eel arrows that Katie Osidis shoots from her bow, or what exactly the floating woman in white reveals to the swamp spirits when they knock her helmet from her head. I guess what I’m trying to say is this world is so rich, so fascinating that the main series leaves me wanting to know everything about everyone.
Opeña’s art is gorgeous. I mean it is staggeringly gorgeous. Everything from the storytelling, to the character acting, to the killer designs, and intricate backgrounds. The pencils and inks alone are enough to dazzle anyone who lays eyes on his pages, but when combined with Hollingsworth’s vibrant colors, the imagery takes on an otherworldly nature, specifically when magic is at work.
Yeah, Denizens, I’m already setting aside some space on my favorite bookshelf for the oversized hardcover that probably won’t release until late 2018, but Seven to Eternity is so good that I am already anticipating its release. The next two issues will feature guest artist James Harren (Rumble) — a worthy stand-in — and will focus on the red-skinned fairy Jevalia. I can’t wait. If you aren’t reading Seven to Eternity, then you need to immediately right this grievous error by picking up the first trade today.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Written by Rick Remender, illustrated by Wes Craig, colored by Jordan Boyd, lettered by Rus Wooton, edited by Sebastian Girner, published by Image Comics. Okay, Denizens, full confession time: at some point in the middle of the first 22 issues of yet another phenomenal series from Remender, I was considering switching to trades. I know, I know, what the shizzle was I thinking? But somewhere just before the “Final Exam” third arc, things started moving and they started moving quickly; the pacing has rarely slowed since then.
It’s difficult to talk about this issue without spoiling a bunch of gnarly things that happened prior to issue 21, so I’ll just give the basics: one character’s about to break a promise in order to save Saya, the new batch of freshmen try to explain what happened to Saya to Headmaster Lin (as scary an old bastard if there ever was one), Shabnam tries to show he’s in control, and Saya learns just how depraved her brother really is. Like always, Craig’s art is on another level from most books, and Boyd’s mostly flat colors — especially on the first five beach scene pages — are breathtaking.
I’m 100% in, Denizens. I have been for a while now, and I encourage you to be as well. If it’s a creator-owned book and Remender’s writing it, you can be sure that no matter what the book is you need to be reading it. You can catch up on this great story about a high school for assassins set in the ’80s with the deluxe hardcover or the five available trades. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Ryan Bodenheim, colored by Michael Garland, lettered by Rus Wooton, published by Image Comics. Okay, now you might remember that over the previous three issues the Colonel, a much older gentleman, was looking for a way to…ummm…extend the life of his ailing wife through the aid of…oh, geez, what were they called again? Anyhow, those totally white people are ageless and have been existing alongside humanity since…probably a long time. Then there’s the Colonel’s crew, who are also getting older, and they have to…ummm…retrieve a spear or something. At least I think that’s what they were doing. Oh, yeah…these Cobra-looking dudes (as in the G.I. Joe villains) stole the spear because a hot-looking clone told them to. Does any of that sound right? It’s kind of hard to remember as it has been a year and eight months since issue three came out.
The thing is that I remember positively loving those first three issues. I raved about them. They’re great. But I need to go back and reread them in order to remember what the heck happened and to be able to get back into the story. Thankfully for those not caught up with this stellar-yet-dreadfully-late series, Hickman and Bodenheim released the first three issues in a $9.99 direct-market-only trade alongside this issue. Now, if I had reread what came before, then this issue would have probably resonated more as there are no reminders as to who the main players are or what is going on. I will say that my fondness for what I read back in the day combined with Bodenheim and Garland’s beautiful art helped carry me through this mostly conversational issue, that still left me eager to see what is to come. I suspect the next issue won’t see as long of a delay, and I also suspect that if you like well-told adventure stories that you will like this one too.
RECOMMENDED!
Slice into the Woods
The #45 - What a buffoon. #45 pushed the Prime Minister of Montenegro out of his way to be front and center for a NATO photo opp. He probably insisted on more scoops of ice cream than every one else, too. Criminy, the world is laughing at us.
Betsy DeVos - She is an embarassment and a monumental fool. She is the female version of Skeletor from He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, who should take a couple of those school vouchers she loves so much and look toward educating herself.
Welcome back, Donist World Denizens! For those of you new to our site, I’m Donist, and I am joined by Donist World CFO the Reverse Obie* (my friends’ Boston terrier whose fur recently swapped colors) and by our marketing director / administrative assistant / party planner / carpet stain hater Tulip (my dog, Reverse Obie’s sister). Okay, the Donist World corporate office (Mom’s basement) is still under siege as the new carpet will, once again, attempt to be installed. You see, last week our old carpet was torn out, and new foam padding was placed down only discover that the “new” carpet looked to have been stained with a barrel of spilled olive oil and had apparently been driven over by a tank. No joke. So, despite some heavy negotiation between the carpet company and Tulip and the Reverse Obie, we’ve been forced to live with foam padding everywhere, exposed carpet nails, and a continued interruption to our plans of maintaining our spot among the Fortune 320,000. <sigh> Anyhow, I got to move some more heavy stuff before the carpet installers get here, but while I stress out, y’all should relax, pour yourself a fresh cup of coffee, cook up some delicious waffles, and most of all read some great comics. Take care. Thank you for reading!
*Obie, through his dabbling in arcane magics mixed with ancient corrupt business practices, has had not just the colors of his fur switched, but a complete overhaul of his work ethic as well…I think I’m kinda okay with the mishap.
***Possible Spoilers Below***
Future Quest #3
Future Quest #3- Written by Jeff Parker, illustrated by Steve “The Dude” Rude and Aaron Lopresti, inked by Karl Kesel, colored by Steve Buccellato and Hi-Fi, lettered by ALW’s Dave Lanphear, published by DC Comics. Last month’s excitement is interrupted for a look into two of Hanna-Barbera’s superstars: Birdman and The Herculoids!
I know, I know, simmer down, Denizens, simmer down. When the very first page — a gorgeous Birdman splash page by Rude, no less— said that this was a flashback issue my first thought was, “Instant score or RECOMMENDED!” To be completely honest, I was peeved that after only two issues, we were already hitting the flashbacks and not progressing with the story I had come to love over the first two issues. Future Quest was the comic I was most looking forward to reading, and it was the first comic that I read. Dang. One page, and this Donist was all salty and dismissive. But I took a breath…and turned to see what the story had to say.
What follows is the condensed version of my thoughts as I read this tale: Ohhhhh, look at Birdman hanging with Avenger <scorn> I can’t wait to see what happens next <sarcasm> Oh, wow. I want to watch the old cartoons now <sarcasm, holds a hint of truth> Here’s that spy woman, and look at…oh, is that the big bad from issue one?! <I sit up straight> Yeah, this is probably gonna be lame. <doubting> Rude’s art is dang fine, though. <sincere> Whoa! Oh my stars and garters, cool! <digging this comic = 97%> Wait, what?! It’s over?! That was freakin’ awesome. <100% loved this story…so glad, to have been so wrong>
Seriously, Denizens, that is how this issue went and it wasn’t even over. We also get an equally stunning — in both visuals and written word — origin of The Herculoids and what ultimately brought them to the planet Quasar. I went into this half happy, and left even more so. Every member of the Herculoids had their moment to shine and I was completely in from the first splash page to the end. The colors are bright and vibrant, bringing back a warm nostalgia of watching Saturday Morning cartoons as a kid, when I made sure I was always in front of the television to watch my favorite family of monsters. Man, this was really good.
The only fault I can find with this comic is that it wasn’t 100-pages-long. That is my biggest and only disappointment. With this issue of the gosh-darn-amazing Future Quest, I started with a crummy attitude, and left all smiles and desperate for more. This is how it has gone for every issue thus far in the series. If you are not reading this tremendous comic that successfully brings a ray of joy back to the usually dreary world of comic books, then you should remedy that immediately. Future Quest is good. It’s really good, and whether you are reading out of nostalgia for the old, or looking for something new, you are certain to be pleased. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Wonder Woman #3
Wonder Woman #3- Written by Greg Rucka, illustrated by Liam Sharp, colored by Laura Martin, lettered by Jodi Wynne, published by DC Comics. Wonder Woman seeks the aid of one her most ruthless enemies: the Cheetah.
I could not help but pick up this “DC Rebirth” title, and I’m so glad I did. This issue has it all: beautifully choreographed fight scenes, drama, some truly heartwarming moments, and a concurrent story with Steve Trevor that is mighty interesting in and of itself. Rucka and Sharpe grab you with the very first page, and successfully prove why Wonder Woman is such a strong and admirable character. She’s fierce, yet compassionate, with her body language relaying of a staunch confidence and a stalwart dedication to those once close to her. What I’m trying to say is you best respect the Wonder Womans…she’s hella badass.
So, yeah, I am sooooooo loving this new series and by that I mean the whole series. In case you didn’t know, all of the odd-numbered issues are devoted to Wonder Woman in the present, and all of the even-numbered issues are a look into the Princess of Power’s past. Each storyline has a different artist, but both storylines are out of this world. Just to be safe, you should be reading every issue of this tremendous series. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Archie #10
Archie #10- Written by Mark Waid, illustrated by Veronica Fish, colored by Andre Szymanowicz with Jen Vaughn, lettered by Jack Morelli, published by Archie Comic Publications, Inc. It’s Mr. Lodge (Veronica’s father) versus Mr. Collier (Riverdale’s most beloved / reviled high school teacher) for Mayor of Riverdale. What could possibly go wrong? Answer: Hurricane Andrews…Archie Andrews, that is.
Speaking of comics that shine brighter than the darkest, blackest, direst of nights — or is it knights? — is the ever-delightful Archie. Although the artistic style is greatly different than what most people remember across the comic’s many decades of publication, Fish’s modernized look continues to bring a lighthearted and fun-filled mood to this charming series. The tone of the story, however, remains just as humorous and true to the characters while thematically mixing in a touch of current events (political elections, anyone?) in relevant ways. But no matter how much things change, one thing is for certain: Archie is every bit as great now as it was back in the ’50s.
Don’t get me wrong, Denizens, there’s nothing wrong with darker comics, it’s just that if you need a break from some of the more heavy titles out there, then you positively cannot go wrong with the new Archie series. Heck, if you need to lift your spirits in the wake of the current election year, you can not only catch up with Archie via the first trade, but you can still go to the darker realms with the fantastic Afterlife with Archie (different creators) if you so wish. Whatever you do, just don’t discount Archie. Give it a try. I promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
East of West #28
East of West #28- Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, lettered by Rus Wooton, published by Image Comics. Death, his terrifying Horse-Beast, and the nightmarish talking eyeball gain traction in finding Death’s son, as the boy continues to roam the plains.
I’m not going to lie to you denizens. Not much happens in this issue, but Death does gain some insight (through the creepy-as-all-get-out spider-eyeball thing) and is now moving with determination toward his son who continues to be fed lies about the world through his virtual reality helmet. My guess is that we won’t be seeing them again for a few issues given the healthy roster of characters and storylines currently going on, but we’ll know next month(ish). At least we get to see a truly bizarre and impeccably designed new character who I look forward to seeing in coming issues. Beware, though, Death’s Horse-Beast lurks within these pages, and that creature is something that will haunt me for the remainder of my days…I’m just sayin’.
East of West continues to be my favorite post-apocalyptic, sci-fi, revisionist history, political drama, horror, fantasy, biblical(ish), challenging comic on the stands. I say this knowing full well that it is the only comic that fits all those descriptions. It’s weird, it’s varsity level comic booking, it’s worth checking out, which you can do via the trades or the beautiful hardcover. Just don’t blame me if the dreaded Horse-Beast causes you to lose sleep. You’ve been warned. RECOMMENDED!
Slice into the Woods
Don’t Vote for that Moron Donald “Drumpf” Trump- I’m desperately out of time here, and I know November is a long way off, but whatever you do, don’t vote for that tiny-handed, orange-tinted sociopath. Although I lean left politically, I can understand being fiscally conservative, but this fool is not what any party should choose to represent them. Do some unbiased research on Drumph, you’ll see. Sure, you might hate Clinton, I agree she is as firmly entrenched with Wall Street as almost all politicians, but siding with Trump and the fear-mongering hatred he spews is a step in the complete wrong direction. If you positively hate Clinton, you don’t have to vote for her. Just remember that you also don’t have to vote for the lying, crazy “Drumpf,” either.
This week: The Sixth Gun, Future Quest, and East of West
Welcome back, Donist World Denizens! For those of you new to our site, I’m Donist, and I am joined by Donist World CFO the Reverse Obie* (my friends’ Boston terrier whose fur recently swapped colors) and by our marketing director / administrative assistant / party planner / wafflenator Tulip (my dog, Reverse Obie’s sister). You’ll have to excuse us, Donist World Denizens, as my puppy executive team and I are taking a break from our discussions of maintaining our status as a Fortune 320,000 company in order to fully appreciate our new waffle making station. Tulip is opting for a plain waffle with maple syrup (the classic), Reverse Obie is more of a strawberries with whipped cream kind of puppy, and I going all out with the chocolate chips and whipped cream. Nothing says “victory” like a waffles and sequential storytelling. So, pour yourself a fresh cup of coffee, cook up some waffles to your specifications, and most of all read some great comics. Take care. Thank you for reading!
*Obie, through his dabbling in arcane magics mixed with ancient corrupt business practices, has had not just the colors of his fur switched, but a complete overhaul of his work ethic as well…I think I’m kinda okay with the mishap.
***Possible Spoilers Below***
The Sixth Gun #50
The Sixth Gun #50- Written Cullen Bunn, illustrated by Brian Hurtt, colored by Bill Crabtree, lettered by Crank!, designed by Keith Wood, edited by Charlie Chu, published by Oni Press. The gates to hell have been thrown open by the Six Guns, and Griselda the Grey Witch means to rebuild the world to her suiting…that is unless Becky, Drake, and their companions put an end to the evildoer and her army and somehow rid the world of the guns once and for all.
<pwaw> <puff> <puff> <pwaw> That, Denizens, is the the sound of this Donist figuratively having a smoke after such an immensely satisfying read of an immensely satisfying series. (Seriously, though, I’ve never even tried smoking and you shouldn’t either, as it supports a corrupt business that poisons people and the planet, but that’s neither here nor there.) <sip> <rustle> <rustle> <sip> That, Denizens, is the sound of this Donist literally taking a celebratory sip of Henry McKenna Kentucky Bourbon (which you should switch to a strong ginger ale, if you are not old enough to drink alcoholic beverages.) Anyhow, what I’m trying to say is that after 50 issues, The Sixth Gun has run its course and come to an end, an end of the creators’ choosing, done how they wanted it to be done. This is a great thing for everyone indeed.
I’m not going to spoil this issue, other than to say you need to be ready for the $9.99 cover price, but you can rest easy since this issue runs for 60 glorious, uninterrupted pages and ends with a kindly letter to the fans from Bunn. You’ll rest easier over the initial sticker shock of the price once you actually get this issue in your dagburned, grubby little mitts and see how heavy it actually is. Then you start to read. If you remember, there was a lengthy delay between the end of the previous arc and the beginning of this one, and although I like issue 48, I was not blown away by it. Issue 49 — which I had to buy digital because my LCS sold my copy to someone else — had some big surprises that made me want to cheer aloud and served as a strong lead in for this series finale. I was pumped.
Okay, I will give you a little nibble by saying that you won’t need to worry about the ending being just a bunch of folks sitting around conversing. Nope. If you’ve been loving The Sixth Gun as much as I have over the years, then you are expecting battles, monsters, demons, shocks, and thrills, as well as an ending that beautifully sticks the landing and artwork that remains as solid as it has ever been; you get it all. Bunn’s narration and dialogue continue to pull you in as the stakes escalate throughout. Hurtt delivers some of his best work to date with some cool creature designs, and storytelling that keeps you glued to the action as Crabtree’s not overly rendered colors depict Hell in greyed tones except when vibrant, blood reds burn in the underworld’s gloom; as far as Hell goes, it’s rather pretty, if not for the urgency of…you know…the end of existence.
I’m a happy buckaroo, Denizens. Not for the end of a fantastic series, of course, but for a solid ending that respects and builds upon everything that came before. I loved it. In fact, think I’m going to fast forward a reread of the entire series to the top of the reread tower to experience the series in all its glory once again. I honestly can’t wait! Speaking of not waiting, if you never read the best supernatural Western comic to ever grace the stands, then you have a hefty amount of reading to do with the soon to be nine trades (not counting three side story trades), or go for the pricey-but-glorious hardcovers. You’ll be glad you did. Huge congrats to the creators and a hope that we someday see The Sixth Gun done properly on television. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Future Quest #1
Future Quest #1- Written by Jeff Parker, illustrated by Evan “Doc” Shaner and Steve “The Dude” Rude, colored by Jordie Bellaire, lettered by ALW Studios’s Dave Lanphear, published by DC Comics. As a mysterious menace seeks to take over the universe, a lone warrior wages a losing battle to keep it at bay. Meanwhile, on planet Earth, the Quest family takes notice of mysterious rifts in space and time, as does a more devious mind.
Okay, full disclosure: I had no intention of picking up this book. Thankfully, the many glowing reviews and high praise all around made me reconsider. Why wouldn’t I want to read a mashup of some of my favorite childhood cartoons? There’s characters from Space Ghost, The Herculoids, Jonny Quest, Birdman, and a bunch of others from shows I did not watch — for you youngsters out there, I’m talking ’bout the dark days before the interwebs, streaming, and DVRs…spooky…scary. Anyhow, I don’t know why I didn’t think I’d want this excellent, fun, thrilling comic, but I’m glad my guy at the LCS talked me into letting them order me a copy.
The issue is $3.99, which is more expensive than the current “Rebirth” titles from DC, but it also has 30 pages of compelling, all-ages story that’s sure to please fans of the Hanna-Barbera cartoons, while intriguing those with limited experience to those great shows. In these 30 pages, Parker gives us a little space opera, a dash of jungle adventure, a pinch of spy intrigue, a tablespoon of superheroics, and a quarter cup of danger, all carefully folded into a pillowy phyllo dough of fun. (Ahem…sorry about that. It’s almost dinner time and I’m hungry.)
Shaner, Rude, and Bellaire make nearly every panel a visual one-two punch of storytelling that refuses to allow you to look away, while gliding you through the course of the book, eager to see what happens next. The vibrant colors add tension and excitement, and with the beauty reflected on every page, it seems like the creators have an appreciation, if not total love, of the source material. You also can’t go wrong with mechanized eyeball spiders, or a French bulldog named Bandit.
I love this comic, Denizens. It’s a joy to read. Even without the nostalgia factor, the story and art are enough to make me a fan. Plus, a good thing about getting a hold of a copy this late in the game is that this coming Wednesday issue two comes out! So, if you have not given the fantastic Future Quest a try, then you should pick up a copy before it vanishes from the stands, so you can be ready for the next issue of what looks to be a heavenly series. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
East of West #27
East of West #27- Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, lettered by Rus Wooton, published by Image Comics. When the Chosen gather, no good can ever come of it.
Dang. This issue struck a little too close to home. It very much reminded me of the annual Donist Family Reunion. You get everyone together and it is all fine…for about the first ten minutes. Next thing you know, it all falls apart: old grudges resurface; the bickering starts; the two or three sane people in the bunch are happy to see each other, yet acknowledge getting together is not the best of ideas; old wounds reopen. And then Aunt Bernice stands up. “Oh gawd,” people mutter, “here we go again,” as Aunt Bernice knocks a cup of demon’s venom (aka…wine) from cousin Billy’s hand before launching into her tirade about hellfire and brimstone; it’s no wonder Uncle Stu up and vanished…we hope of his own accord. <ahem> So, yeah. This issue is kind of like that, only with a big, white nether demon added to the mix…as well as foretellings of the apocalypse…both of which could go down at the Donist Family Reunion come August. (Why do I keep going to those?)
Anyhow, this issue has all of the complexities East of West fans have come to expect from new installments, with not much coming from this meeting of The Chosen other than some bad tidings for one character in particular…which really bums me out as we have not yet fully gotten their story. <sigh> Oh well, I still hold out hope that we have not yet seen the last of the mysterious character, and someday understand what their deal is, what their relationship to another is, how they met another character, and why they played such an intriguing role only to be possibly “kilt!” in this issue. Dragotta’s sequentials continue to be fantastic, and his character designs great, especially on the increasingly-gross Ezra.
East of West continues to befuddle the bejesus out of me, but I am still enjoying the comic…even when one of the coolest characters is (supposedly) taken off the board. If you like to work for your comic book enjoyment and you are a fan of sci-fi, post-apocalyptic / pre-apocalyptic, supernatural, fantasy, political dramas, then East of West is the book for you. You can catch up with the five available trades, or super-size the experience with the first hardcover. RECOMMENDED!
Slice into the Woods
Out of time as always- Again, I’m out of time. There’s still plenty of awfulness to gripe about, but let’s lift the mood, focus on the good, and by all means stay the hell away from Aunt Bernice. Take care.
This week: Afterlife with Archie, Rachel Rising, Tokyo Ghost, Weirdworld, and East of West
Welcome back, Donist World Denizens! For those of you new to our site, I’m Donist, and I am joined by Donist World CFO the Reverse Obie* (my friends’ Boston terrier whose fur recently swapped colors) and by our marketing director / administrative assistant / party planner / new computer fixer upper Tulip (my dog, Obie’s sister). Okay, I’m waaaaaaay out of time, so let’s get into the thick of things. Tulip, Reverse Obie, and I each took a couple reviews this week as we didn’t even begin writing this week’s post until this morning. You see, we’ve been getting the new machine up and running (almost there), and we also had seven books in our pull; a good problem to have given that we’ve only had one or two for the past couple weeks. Anyhow, let’s dive in, but only after we take another moment of silence for the loss of the masterful Darwyn Cooke. So check out some of his gorgeous work — both comics and animation — order up some delicious tacos, and most of all read some great comics. Take care. Thank you for reading!
*Obie, through his dabbling in arcane magics mixed with ancient corrupt business practices, has had not just the colors of his fur switched, but a complete overhaul of his work ethic as well…I think I’m kinda okay with the mishap.
***Possible Spoilers Below***
Afterlife with Archie #9
Afterlife with Archie #9- Written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, illustrated by Francesco Francavilla, lettered by Jack Morelli, published by Archie Comic Publications, Inc. Reggie Mantle’s been called many things: jerk, jock, joke, bully, stalker. But there's one word that has stuck with him. A word no one has actually said to him, but one that has troubled him for some time. That word is…Sociopath.
When we last read Afterlife with Archie, the gang was…ummmm…yeah, they were…hmmmmm…I remember an AWESOME The Shining homage issue, and…well, that’s about all I remember. You see, Denizens, the last issue of this amazing Donist World Darling came out over a year ago. You read that right — over a year ago. But here’s the thing: I might be a little shy of remembering some of the specifics of the story, but all it took was one page to grab me, hold me, and pull me completely back into this wonderfully bleak world.
Yes, I had a scowl on my face when I saw this issue waiting in my pull, but that scowl vanished almost instantly as my love of this series came flooding back in, and Francavilla’s cover depicting a cracked mirror reflecting Reggie’s smiling face behind the darkened images of those closest to him gave me a chill, not just of dread, but of anticipation over what’s coming next. Like I said, it took all of one page for Aguirre-Sacasa to hook me, and the bitterness (okay, I wasn’t that bitter, I’m just being dramatic) over the long delay between issues was gone. The writer had me sympathizing with Reggie despite everything he has done throughout his life, including sparking the zombie apocalypse that plagues the world. I actually felt sorry for the kid, and his disassociation with those closest to him. Reggie does indeed come dangerously close to being a sociopath, but his feelings of guilt, of being responsible keep him from crossing that line…until he crosses a new one in a way I did not see coming at all. But Reggie’s a complex character, and only time will tell if we are seeing all that is going on within his not-outside-the-box-but-a-totally-different-box-altogether brain. His devastating choice in this issue is extreme yet fully within his character. However, this is Reggie; I don’t believe we’re seeing the full picture.
Then you have Francavilla’s art; it’s sheer beauty. Even if the word balloons were to suddenly vanish from the page, his storytelling and character acting prowess would keep you gliding from panel to panel, and you would still be able to get the gist of the overall story. But it’s his use of perfectly placed shadows and his striking color palette that create just the right mood for the series. No matter how you look at the man’s work, it’s certain to enchant and leave you desperate for more…the gorgeous Reggie and Midge pages especially knocked me out this issue. (Side note that has nothing to do with this comic: My friend has a Clash of the Titans poster that he has had for a couple years, and that is still in the shipping tube — it drives me to near madness to see that ugly brown tube, knowing what rests within. <sigh> I need to get some kind of Francavilla art for my home…pronto.)
Forget the long delay between issues. It doesn’t matter, Denizens. What matters is that we have a new issue of Afterlife with Archie, and it is freakin’ fantastic. If you like zombies you should check out this series. If you like Archie you should check out this series. If you don’t like either of those things…well, I’m sure there’s some sort of therapy available for you. You can easily catch up with the first trade, and then scramble to pick up the remaining issues (6—9), since I doubt you’ll be able to wait for the second trade to come out once issue 10 drops. Yes, the wait was painful (I’m sure it had something to do with the Riverdale television show set to appear some day in the future), but for work of this caliber, I will gladly wait. Let’s just hope the wait isn’t so long for issue 10, which I am desperate to have in my grubbly little paws. I love love love this series. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Rachel Rising #42
Rachel Rising #42 - Everythinged by Terry Moore, published by Abstract Studio. Now that the threat to the world has been dealt with only one mystery remains: who killed Rachel.
Dang, Denizens, It’s hard to comprehend a world without new issues of one of my all-time-favorite horror books on the stands. I’m bummed. Rachel Rising has been a creepy joy that everyone needs to read, but now that the series is over, did this final issue leave me happy, or merely scratching my head? The answer: definitely happy.
I do think things were a tad rushed to get us to this satisfying ending, but as I said last issue, I felt the final conflict with Malus could have used its own six-issue arc, and the same holds true for the mystery surrounding Rachel’s death. But Moore handles EVERYTHING on his own. He does the writing, art, lettering, design, publication, printing, sales, marketing…everything. So if sales aren’t in line — which deeply wounds me on this tremendous book — then the series has to end. Thankfully, Moore respects his readers enough to give them an immensely satisfying conclusion that is filled with his beautiful art, backgrounds, dialogue, pacing, and overall story. Just be prepared for some shocking-as-hell stuff that goes down, which Moore (an immensely nice and earnest man I’ve been lucky enough to meet three times over the years) is all too happy to leave us with.
You also need to read all the way through to the end!!! There’s a black page, a credit page, and two more black pages before the actual final page which made me laugh and cheer, and which made the conclusion all the more satisfying.
You need to read this series. Whether you choose to go the floppy route, or trades (there will be seven trades total), or the limited done-in-one from Moore directly, Rachel Rising is well worth your time. Heck, with any luck we’ll get that television series that’s been trying to happen for the past few years; Moore definitely deserves some financial reward for yet another truly remarkable comic book. I will miss this series tremendously. Both this issue and the series as a whole come VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Tokyo Ghost #7
Tokyo Ghost #7 - Written by Rick Remender, illustrated by Sean Murphy, colored by Matt Hollingsworth, lettered by Rus Wooton, edited by Sebastian Girner, published by Image Comics. Wracked with guilt over causing the death of the love of his life and the subsequent destruction of the Garden Nation of Tokyo, Led Dent retreats ever further into brain-deadening technology. But the Tokyo Ghost has arrived in New Los Angeles with a mission to put an end to Led Dent’s employer, Flak Industries, once and for all.
Remender brings the negative aspects of too much tech, too many distractions to the forefront of our thoughts with this cautionary, dystopian adventure that is an absolute blast to read. Sure, I’ve known for some time that advances in technology have also brought an influx of distractions (I say as I disconnect my iPod, glance back at my iPhone, and type away on my brand new computer) that further distance us from actual meaningful experiences. But there’s so much more to Tokyo Ghost than “too much tech is bad.” It’s also a heartbreaking love story and an action-packed rollercoaster ride with explosions and humor and most of all hope.
In addition to the timely message, the thrills, and the laughs lurking in this fantastic story, Murphy and Hollingsworth’s art continues to be stunning. The solid storytelling and tone-setting colors, as well as the loads of interesting things happening in the background, demand that you repeatedly come back to this book to see all the things you might have missed — which is sure to be plenty. Tokyo Ghost looks as beautiful as it reads.
Since issue one of this fantastic series, I’ve really become conscious of how much time I spend checking messages, checking emails, and wasting on social media. I also find myself thinking about this must-read series while on long runs and driving to and from work. I honestly can't get it out of my head, and that is a good thing, indeed. If you are not reading Tokyo Ghost — oh, the pain, the pain — then you need to immediately get the super-cheap first trade and the two issues that follow; you’ll be glad you did. I can’t wait to see where we go next. Davey Trauma! VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Weirdworld #6
Weirdworld #6 - Written by Sam Humphries, illustrated and colored by Mike Del Mundo, color assists by Marco D’Alfonso, lettered by VC’s Cory Petit, published by Marvel Comics. Becca and Morgan Le Fay have a little chat as the secrets of the Wuxian Seed are revealed.
Ummm…did my favorite Marvel comic book just get stealth cancelled? I know that Humphries —who has written a weirdly weird comic of epic weirdness that I positively love — has gone exclusive with DC Comics, and this issue ends in one of those “Our path is now known to us, and further awesome adventures await” endings…an ending to the arc that also clearly states “The End” with both of the creators names below it. Yeah, Denizens. The future of Weirdworld doesn’t look to bright. <sigh><sniffle>.
This sucks. Even with this not-really-a-wrap-up wrap up issue that mostly centers on Becca and Morgan Le Fay sitting around talking, it is still incredibly compelling, manages to tug at the heart strings, and of course had me smiling throughout. The dialogue is beautiful.
And speaking of “beautiful,” Del Mundo’s art is as otherworldly as ever. And I say this despite there being almost no monsters, no barbarians, no trippy-as-hell machines or machinists, no Man-Things, and no sorceresses of the woods to be found. It’s all mostly people talking and a weird Catbeast. Put it this way…Del Mundo could illustrate a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman convention, and I promise you it would be nothing short of magical.
<sigh> I got the sads, Denizens. I got ’em somethin’ fierce. This was a fun book while it lasted, but at least I have the memories…and the actual physical books to forever remind me of just how well-written and gorgeously illustrated Weirdworld is. If you opted to wait on this one, then now is the time to get the Volume 0 trade (written by none other than Jason Aaron), and then pick up the final <sniffle> Volume 1 trade when it releases in mid-July. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
East of West #26
East of West #26 - Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, lettered by Rus Wooton, published by Image Comics. Death continues the search for his son, as the Chosen finally meet as foretold.
After 25 issues, it looks like most of the many — and I mean many — players are together and things are about to get cray-cray. This issue focuses on two sequences: Death shaking down the bartender for info, and the meeting of the Chosen. Each storyline of this issue is fascinating, but I have to admit to being most intrigued by Death getting closer to finding his son. This isn’t to say I wasn’t just as quickly whipping through the pages as the members of The Chosen arrive in their own unique ways to the meeting to discuss the coming apocalypse, I just love the character of Death. I also have to admit that as intrigued as I am by the creeping, talking eyeball, I also find the thing immensely disturbing and fully expect it to haunt my nightmares with fever dreams for the remainder of my days. But that’s neither here nor there.
East of West is big kid comics created to challenge comic book readers in the best of ways. You can’t just jump in anywhere. You have to start with the first issue and let the journey progress at the creators’ pace. At times you will be lost, but that is by design. Don’t worry, though, answers will come, as will elevated stress levels as things intensify within this fascinating post-apocalyptic, sci-fi, Western, fantasy, political drama of revisionist history that is sure to please readers willing to work for the many rewards this series has to offer. You can catch up with the oversized hardcover, or go the route of the trades (five available thus far), but again you must start at the beginning…you’ll be glad you did. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Slice into the Woods
Out of Time- No, I’m not talking about the R.E.M. album I can no longer listen to as a result of hearing it too many damn times while working at a music store many years ago. I just want to briefly say that we also read The Sixth Gun #48 and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina #5 (also dreadfully late), and that each of these are well worth checking out, each receiving a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! for their fantastic stories. I would have gladly gone into some of the details, but I just ran out of time and I have a lovely dentist appointment I have to go to. Yay?
This week: Chew: Demon Chicken Poyo, Tokyo Ghost, East of West, and Power Man and Iron Fist
Welcome back, Donist World Denizens! For those of you new to our site, I’m Donist, and I am joined by Donist World CFO the Reverse Obie* (my friends’ Boston terrier whose fur recently swapped colors) and by our marketing director / administrative assistant / party planner / “Sign O’ the Times” Tulip (my dog, Obie’s sister). <sigh> Forget it. All meetings to discuss maintaining our status as a Fortune 320,000 company are canceled. I even think we’re going to cut out early to day so that my puppy executive team and I can mourn in our own ways the loss of the Purple One, Prince. Ugh. Losing Bowie was a huge blow, but now Prince? It’s all a bit too heavy to think about. Again, I must…<sigh>. Anyhow, be sure to dress up in somethin’ nice, somethin’ purple, put on some “Purple Rain,” and contemplate what it sounds like when the doves cry. After you mourn the loss of this tremendous artist, then rejoice in the legacy the man gave us, and then, only then, read some great comics. Take care. Thank you for reading!
*Obie, through his dabbling in arcane magics mixed with ancient corrupt business practices, has had not just the colors of his fur switched, but a complete overhaul of his work ethic as well…I think I’m kinda okay with the mishap.
***Possible Spoilers Below***
Chew: Demon
Chicken Poyo #1
Chew: Demon Chicken Poyo #1- Written and lettered by John Layman, illustrated and colored by Rob Guillory, color assists by Taylor Wells, published by Image Comics. A sick child’s health worsens as she catches a bad case of demon possession! The only surefire way to put the demon behind her ain’t through the word of the Good Book, but rather through the power of an even better one.
Boy howdy, Denizens, we’re about to head into the final five-issue arc of the Donist World Darling Chew, and what better way to kick things off than with a third special issue surrounded by everyone’s favorite luchador / murder machine / chicken badass, Poyo. But we need to get something out of the way first. If you have not been reading Chew, then you will certainly miss out on much of what the creators have carefully built over the course of 55 issues, two specials, and a crossover. That said, the casual reader could pick up this issue, and enjoy Guillory’s vibrant, hilarious, crazy cartooning, as well as Layman’s witty, hilarious, biting writing, but reading this book without first experiencing the rich history of the awesomeness that came before will do you a disservice. It’s that very history that makes this issue such a treasure.
If you have already been reading Chew, then you surely know why this chicken is so feared, why he wears a luchador mask, why he has cybernetic limbs, and why he now has a flaming head. You’ve already got the tools to maximize your enjoyment of this issue. Although this special one-shot is not vital to the main Chew narrative, it further expands the crazy world we’ve all come to love over these past few years, and is something no true fan can afford to miss. I mean, c’mon, Poyo fighting all kinds of crazy evil foes? Including Dick Cheney and his teeny-tiny, wee heart? Dang…how could you not love this.
<sigh> I’m preparing myself, Denizens. I’m preparing myself for a world without Chew, once the final five issues release. That looming, final issue is something I don’t want to see arrive, yet I can’t help but be excited to see how it all ends. It’s a dang conundrum is what it is, but it’s a dang good place to be. If you have not read this bizarre, gross, laugh-out-loud, cry-your-eyes out, enthralling series, then you can easily catch up via the trades, or the even better OmnivoreEdition hardcovers. What matters most is that you are reading the most unique comic to hit the stands in a very long time. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Tokyo Ghost #6
Tokyo Ghost #6- Written by Rick Remender, illustrated by Sean Murphy, colored by Matt Hollingsworth, lettered by Rus Wooton, edited by Sebastian Girner, published by Image Comics. Now that Flak corporation has taken what is left of Tokyo, humanity looks to descend even deeper into the tech-addicted nightmare of its own creation. Things must be doubly bad if Davey Trauma stands as a voice of reason. Thankfully, the ghost of Tokyo lingers on…
You need to be reading all of Remender’s recent creator-owned work (Low, Deadly Class, Black Science, and heck go back and read the amazing Fear Agent, while you’re at it), and that definitely includes the sci-fi, dystopian thrill ride that is Tokyo Ghost. What you have is a world where a tech-addicted society that is almost always “logged in” has willingly enslaved itself to a corrupt corporation’s every whim. This all hits a tad too close to home as I look at the multiple phones, desktops, MP3 players, game systems, television, and tablets littering the Donist household. <brrrrrrrr>…freaky.
It’s been a couple months since the first arc wrapped and left us with one doozy of a cliffhanger, but the series picks up right where it left off as the terrorists Miss Muffet and Jack Horner — dang, this comic is NOT for kiddos — wreck havoc as Led Dent returns to his old job at Flak in the most brutal of ways. Thankfully, the creators have a fairly kick-ace surprise waiting for us loyal readers towards the end, one that will not resonate at all unless you have read the first arc.
Did I mention this series is not for kids?
Tokyo Ghost is a thrilling look where we might be headed with our tech-addicted society, and the repercussions of having our eyes firmly fixed on our phones at all points and times. So break away from the tech (I say as I write on my Mac) and pick up the first trade of this fantastic series. Not only will you find yourself laughing as you wince at certain revelations about your own relationship with tech, but you will be mesmerized by Murphy’s gorgeous storytelling and design, and Hollingsworth’s stunning colors. Given the final four pages of this issue, I can safely say I cannot wait to see what happens next. Did I mention this series is not for kids? VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Power Man and
Iron Fist #3
Power Man and Iron Fist #3- Written by David Walker, illustrated by Sanford Greene, colored by Lee Loughridge, lettered and produced by VC’s Clayton Cowles, published by Marvel Comics. Luke Cage and Danny Rand (Power Man and Iron Fist) are still not back together as Heroes for Hire. Nope. They’re not even teaming up to right wrongs. Double nope. They’re just lending a helping hand to a friend in need. Okay…they’re teaming up.
Wait a minute…I’m still reading a mainstream superhero book from one of the Big Two. And I’m totally digging it. What’s going on?! Who cares. What matters is that I am still really liking this book. Nothing much changes from the events of last issue, but that is fine given that we see just how drastic an effect the Supersoul Stone has had on Luke and Danny’s old friend, Jennie; it’s not good. We also get to see more of Luke and Jessica Jones interacting as husband and wife, which is always good for some laughs.
Even though there’s little in the way of any sort of fighting or superheroics in this issue, Walker’s humorous dialogue and Green’s refreshingly non-standard cartooning had me smiling through to the end. This is especially true of the last three pages, which have me eager to see what happens next. I kind of have the feeling that the next two issues are probably going to have all the fight scenes you could ever want from two of my favorite “street-level” heroes.
If you are looking for a slightly-off-kilter superhero comic that successfully avoids (thus far, at least) the lackluster and financially draining trappings of ”crossovers” and “events,” while maintaining it’s own sense of individuality, then Power Man and Iron Fist is the book you’ve been waiting for. It’s fun, thoughtful, and provides just enough punch to keep this Donist coming back for more. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
East of West #25
East of West #25- Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, lettered by Rus Wooton, published by Image Comics. The Wolf reunites with his uncle. Death walks into a bar. It’s been a while since we last saw an issue of the sci-fi / horror / fantasy / revisionist history / post-apocalyptic-yet-gunning-for-another-apocalypse / Western / drama East of West. It actually seems like ages ago, which made remembering much of what has been happening with the grand cast of characters and their intricate storylines and political machinations a bit difficult to follow. This is not a series you jump into. This also isn’t a book you casually read. You can’t be tired or distracted when you delve into this rich, complex world; if you’re not at your best it probably won’t make a whole lot of sense. Let’s just say it was rather late last night when I finally sat down to read this kickoff to the next arc. I had forgotten about “The Message” and who was / wasn’t one of “The Chosen.” I remember being shaky even before picking up this issue on the reasoning as to why Wolf and Crow left Death at a time when he was finally making some progress in finding his son, but sometimes you have to just go with the flow…others, a solid reread from issue one might be the best thing to do. Still, the art and coloring continue to be rather lovely. With East of West you have to start from the beginning, Denizens. Just be sure to eat your Wheaties, put on the noise-cancelling headphones with some mellow classical music, put the kids / significant other / dog to bed, and maybe do some stretches before setting in to read this series. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the book or been reading since issue one, you need to be prepared, which you can easily do with the first five trades, or the oversized hardcover. East of West is varsity level comicbooking, but if you are up to the challenge, it is well worth your time. RECOMMENDED!
Slice into the Woods
Prince Dies at Age 57- I can’t begin to say how sad I am at hearing of the musician’s passing. Prince’s music has been a timeless mainstay of the Donist household since the ’80s, and I can’t remember how many times the man’s music revived a wavering party and kept the celebration going into the wee hours of the night. Such a sad loss for such a talented and influential individual. No The Sixth Gun?- It should really come as no surprise, but in upholding the curse of The Sixth Gun, my comic shop was once again shorted on it’s shipment of this title, just as is has been on (seriously) 60% of the issues in the series to date. I don’t know what the problem is, but for some reason I can count on getting this issue two weeks after its initial release. This is especially a bummer given the lengthy delay between arcs, and the fact that we are heading into the final chapter in what is the best supernatural Western to grace the stands.
This week: Descender, Secret Wars, and more from the previous two weeks
Welcome back, Donist World Denizens! For those of you new to our site, I’m Donist, and I am joined by Donist World CFO the Reverse Obie (my friends’ Boston terrier whose fur recently swapped colors) and by our marketing director / administrative assistant / party planner / Space Oddity Tulip (my dog, Obie’s sister). As I’ve explained over the past couple FSoH/SitW posts, Obie, through his dabbling in arcane magics mixed with ancient corrupt business practices, has had not just the colors of his fur switched, but a complete overhaul of his work ethic as well…I think I’m kinda okay with the mishap. My puppy executive team and I are still trying to determine our course for maintaining our Fortune 320,000 Company status, while seeking to implement a cooperative company culture conducive to creativity, comics, craft beer, and cranial consoling credos. Cool? Cool. To sum it up: we’re ready to do all the stuffs! So, whether you are heading out to see Star Wars for the 12th time, or you have to wait a couple more days, then set yourself up for some tasty tacos, or perhaps a nice ginger brew, and rewatch the real three Star Wars movies, and most of all read some great comics. Take care. Thank you for reading!
***Possible Spoilers Below***
Descender #9
Descender #9- Written by Jeff Lemire, illustrated by Dustin Nguyen, lettered and designed by Steve Wands, published by Image Comics. TIM-21, Telsa, and a newly-armed Dr. Quon are about to learn the location of The Hardwire’s secret base as they journey to meet the rest of the robot resistance.
Yup. Descender is not only my favorite new comic series of 2015, it’s my favorite comic series of 2015 period. Now in the new year, it continues to be one heck of a captivating read that still flips all my sci-fi command console switches. This is despite the slowed down pacing of this issue after the crazy revelations and sequencing of issues 8 and 9. The creators primarily focus on TIM-21, Telsa, and Dr. Quon as they bicker amongst themselves, and on TIM-21 and TIM-22, who discuss who they are and why they are so special; their growing friendship succeeds in being one of the most touching moments of the series to date.
The book also (finally!) catches us up with Tullis, Driller, and Bandit, who were left behind on the planet Gnish while the other characters made their hasty escape. This set of characters has a chance encounter with a pair of prominent Scrappers, thus setting everyone on a course for a reunion, while leaving me utterly desperate to read issue 10. With any luck, we’ll soon see some of Tullis’s backstory, as well as additional glimpses into Telsa’s past.
Nguyen’s art continues to be a stunning display of utter beauty. I have no idea if the man actually paints each page on watercolor paper, or if all of the painting is done digitally, but you can see the texture of the paper through both Telsa’s skin and the shading of her clothes, while the fierce reds of her hair and eyebrows completely saturate the page. The end effect is gorgeous, but so too is Nguyen’s attention to character acting, storytelling, and the setting of mood — especially during the TIM-21 and TIM-22 scene. The double-page layout of Driller fighting the robots in the arena made me want to shout aloud, “Driller is a killer! Driller a real Killer!!!” Every page is a visual treat.
Descender is a lovely book in both what is written and what is drawn. My only gripe about this issue is that I constantly forget Tullis’s name, which is not mentioned anywhere in the comic. With each new issue, I usually have had to do a bit of digging in order to remind me of this mysterious character’s name. Maybe mentioning his name and UGC rank on the “Previously…” page would serve to remind readers of who he is. Other than that, Descender can do no wrong in this Donist’s mind. I love this series. I’ve honestly lost track of how many copies of the amazing (and amazingly cheap!) first trade I have given away as gifts, as well as how many friends I have directly influenced into reading this thrilling book. It will indeed be a most painful wait for issue 10 to show up in my eager mitts. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Secret Wars #9
Secret Wars #9- Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Esad Ribic, colored by Ive Svorcina, production by Idette Winecoor, published by Marvel Comics. This is it, true believers! Doom’s world comes crashing down around him as the remaining heroes mount one last desperate attempt to free what remains of the universe from his grasp.
Discounting the many delays, the multitudes of story flow-crushing ads seeded throughout each issue, and the glossing over of what might have been some really cool moments, this Marvel event series ended up being quite enjoyable. The story essentially plays out as an homage to the adversarial relationship between Victor Von Doom and Reed Richards that has been waged for over half a century. The Black Panther, the Molecule Man, and, to a lesser degree, Namor all have their time to shine, but in the end it all comes back to Reed and Doom. This is fine, and the conclusion succeeds in renewing my interest in the Fantastic Four comics…just in time to have that comic shelved until some unspecified date (huh?!).
As someone who has been reading fewer Big Two titles over the past couple of years, I was able to follow along with the Secret Wars tale, with the exception of the Black Panther epilogue scene — which I believe has something to do with New Avengers, although I am not certain. What I am certain of is how gorgeous Ribic and Svorcina’s art is in this issue. The fight scene between Reed and Doom in the Molecule Man’s chamber makes it seem as if the stark-white background is pulsing with power and energy as warm color tones wash across both characters. The dramatic cooler scheme of the Richards family and their allies is equally beautiful as we get the slightest taste of what a Ribic and Svorcina cosmic comic could do. (Please please please do a Warlock / Thanos / Silver Surfer book!)
Secret Wars succeeded in delivering an event that was entertaining, although confusing at times, and which actually told a mostly complete story. Given my past experience with these companywide initiatives, I’m pleased to say I’m for the most part satisfied with how everything played out. Would I have preferred a more self-contained nine-issue mini-series? Yes, of course, and although I’m not aligned with all the booming praise being heaped upon the series, I did enjoy it nonetheless. If you waited to see if Secret Wars stuck the landing before diving in, and you are a Marvel Zombie, then tracking down the floppies should not be too difficult a task, or just wait until March when you can get the hardcover version of issues 0–9. RECOMMENDED!
Rapid Fire Look at the Past Two Weeks!
The Fade Out #12 - Written by Ed Brubaker, illustrated by Sean Phillips, Colored by Elizabeth Breitweiser, published by Image Comics. <sigh> This is the final issue in the 12-issue series, and MAN did this crime noir comic deliver. I won’t spoil a thing, but will say that I was most pleased with the ending. You need to read this comic ASAP if you are a fan of crime comics, as Brubaker and Phillips are masters of the genre. If you missed the floppies, then, by golly, get those three trades! VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Black Science # 19- Written by Rick Remender, illustrated by Matteo Scalera, colored by Moreno Dinisio, lettered by Rus Wooton, edited by Sebastian Girner, published by Image Comics. This issue is a triumph, an emotional, one-two gut punch look into Grant McKay’s past and the baggage that has weighed him down for most of his life. Scalera’s art is even more impressive than ever — especially on the gorgeous double-page spread, and Disisio’s colors are breathtaking. If you are behind, you can pick up the three trades or the soon-to-be-released hardcover. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Lazarus #21- Written by Greg Rucka, illustrated and inked by Michael Lark, ink assists by Tyler Boss, colored by Santi Arcas, lettered by Jodi Wynne, published by Image Comics. Most of the “Poison” storyline dragged a bit until this issue brought some downright intense military action, and some compelling family dealings. The first ending of the issue had me cheering for more. The second ending made me gasp and even more eager for what comes next. Four trades will soon be available, and a second hardcover arrives around May. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Paper Girls #4- Written by Brian K. Vaughan, illustrated by Cliff Chiang, colored by Matt Wilson, lettered and designed by Jared K. Fletcher, published by Image Comics. The weirdness continues as three of the girls — and the two teenage weirdos from the future — rush to save Erin’s life. There’s a cool monster and an amazing four-page sequence that hits waaaaaay to close to home (i.e. video games). There won’t be a trade out until April, but why wait to read something that is so very good? VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Archie #4 - Written by Mark Waid, illustrated by Veronica Fish, colored by Andre Szymanowicz with Jen Vaughn, lettered by Jack Morelli, published by Archie Comic Publications, Inc. Fish steps in without missing a beat as the new artist for a story that continues to be great. Things heat up in Betty and Jughead’s quest to free Archie from the clutches of Veronica as they bring Reggie Mantle in on their schemes. This reboot continues to be a hit. A trade debuts in mid-March. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Bitch Planet #6- Written by Kelly Sue DeConnick, illustrated by Taki Soma, colored by Kelly Fitzpatrick, lettered by Clayton Cowles, published by Image Comics. Yeah, it has been awhile between issues, but at least the latest issue is finally here! Soma steps in beautifully on art duties for this one-shot look at the events that brought Meiko Maki to Bitch Planet. At once hopeful when looking at Meiko’s parents, then utterly crushing by the end, Bitch Planet continues to be a fantastic comic. This issue and the first trade will bring you up to speed. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Weirdworld #2- Written by Sam Humphries, illustrated by Mike Del Mundo with Marco D’Alfonso, lettered by VC’s Cory Petit, published by Marvel Comics. We already know that the Weirdworld mini-series was the best part of Secret Wars, and the new series looks to continue the insanity with Becca (girl lost) and Goleta (killer of wizards). Visuals are completely stunning with some fantastic monsters, humorous-yet-exciting action sequences, and a story that’ll have you cracking up as the art leaves you weeping in awe at the beauty before you. Volume 0 trade available. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Jughead #3- Written by Chip Zdarsky, illustrated by Erica Henderson, lettered by Jack Morelli, published by Archie Comic Publications, Inc. His name is Jones. Jughead Jones. The laughs continue as Jughead matches wits against the new Principal of Riverdale High, Mr. Stanger. I love seeing Jughead blur the lines of fantasy and reality. I will say that I prefer the more zen version of the character, but the brilliant goofball envisioned by Zdarsky is still hella fun. RECOMMENDED!
East of West #23- Written by Jonathan Hickman, illustrated by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, lettered by Rus Wooton, published by Image Comics. After the spectacular mostly-silent issue from last month, the action slows as the political intrigue ramps up as we focus on John Freeman. An interesting issue, but I’m looking forward to checking in with Death and Babylon. A fifth trade will be available soon, and there is a gorgeous hardcover covering the first year of the story as well. RECOMMENDED!
Slice into the Woods
David Bowie and Alan Rickman - Shit. In less than a week we lost two exceptionally talented and influential people, each of whom has entertained, thrilled, and affected not just me, but the world as a whole. I have attended two life-changing Bowie concerts over the years, and have loved his music most of my life. Rickman’s work has kept me enthralled for nearly 30 years. Both will be missed.
