Phoenix Lantern Corps

San Diego Comic Con 2011

2011-07-25T17:39:00.001-04:00

As you all must know by now, San Diego Comic Con was this past weekend and my sister and I went on Saturday. As usual the place was packed with people, there were a lot of great costumes and more importantly, we got to meet up with some of our favorite creators!

Things were in full swing for the upcoming Arkham City game (though nothing on The Dark Knight Rises)

Transformers had a major presence as well, but there was nothing quite like the Lego sculptures spread out throughout the hall.

Marvel had some pretty cool things strewn about, though I can't help but think Odin's throne last year was much cooler than the SHIELD stage.

There were a group of cosplayers that dressed up as heroes, but the opposite gender. Unfortunately, I only got pictures of these two.

And bunches more!

Here's me with writer's Jonathan Hickman (FF, S.H.I.EL.D., Red Wing) and writer Nick Spencer (Morning Glories, T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents)

Here are Rafael Albuquerque (American Vampire), Scott Snyder (American Vampire, Detective Comics), Francesco Francavilla (Detective Comics), Tony Daniel (Batman), and Jim Lee

We got these sketches from Francavilla and Albuequerque

And we bought these prints from Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman (Undying Love), and Albuquerque

Comic Con is pretty much the best place in the world for comic fans!
If you can, make sure you get there some time.

They brought arms...to an arms control conference

2011-07-20T14:57:00.001-04:00

Hello all. My sincerest apologies for being absent for a couple of weeks. I was at the Grand Canyon lat week and well, I was distracted. In an attempt to keep things fresh, I've decided to change things up when it comes to reviews starting next week. From now on, I will be choosing my favorite books of the week and reviewing those only.

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #2 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Sean Murphy
Cover Artist: Sean Murphy
Publisher: Vertigo

Sometimes a spin-off story comes out of a book and you're left questioning whether that was a good idea. In this particular case, it was an amazing idea. Not only has Snyder kept the original series fantastic, this spin-off is absolutely brilliant stuff as well. The story is great. A search for a cure, sounds simple right? Believe me, it's anything but simple. And the art is gorgeous, really gorgeous. Murphy does an amazing job of enhancing Snyder's story.

FF #6 ***1/2
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Greg Tocchini
Cover Artists: Mark Bagley
Publisher: Marvel

This issue was kind of weird. First of all, not one member of the Future Foundation makes an appearance. That's right, not a one. This issue takes us on a journey across time and space. We get to learn about what happened to Blackbolt at the end of War of Kings and a bit about some ancient civilizations deep in space. Overall, I thought it was an interesting issue, but a tad confusing considering it didn't really have much to do with the current arc.

New Mutants **1/2
Writers: Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning
Artists: Leandro Fernandez and Andres Mossa
Cover Artist: Marko Djurdejevic
Publisher: Marvel
This entire issue is pretty much all about making Dani look great, boring. Like any true X-Man fan, I was pretty excited about his return. I'm still pretty excited. But this issue, which also happens to be his rescue, was a little too uneventful for me. Which is weird, considering how much action goes on.

X-Men: Schism #1 ****1/2
Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Carlos Pacheco
Cover Artist: Carlos Pacheco, Frank Cho, and Nick Bradshaw
Publisher: Marvel

This issue was fan-freaking-tastic! While I was growing up the X-Men always had one constant enemy, the Sentinel. Magneto, Apocalypse, Mystique, and all those other mutant villains would come and go as they pleased. But Sentinels were always the ever present symbol of humanity's hatred towards the mutants. This issue brings them back in an outstanding fashion. This issue has a couple of twists and turns that will leave you thinking "what the hell just happened."

Gladstone's School for World Conquerers #3 ****1/2
Writer: Mark Andrew Smith
Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Cover Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Publisher: Image

This book is totally awesome. The writing is humorous and smart and witty. And the art is unique, eclectic, and very cool. This issue was just as great as the others. Kid Nefarious is positively hilarious. The two brothers that go to visit their mom in prison were heartbreaking. If you're looking to start a fairly unknown but great book, this is it.

My DC review can be found here!

Writer's Pull List 07/06/11

2011-07-06T17:50:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! In case you were wondering, comic books DO come out today. So go pick some up!

Arnab's Note: I have no notes for you guys this week. Have fun reading!

Matt's Note: Last week's post was so late because of me. Sorry team.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #25
Flashpoint #3
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #2
Superboy #9
Marvel
Fear Itself #4
Uncanny X-Men #540
X-23 #12
X-Men #14
Image
Chew #27

Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #25
Batman Beyond #7
Flashpoint #3
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #2
Marvel
Fear Itself #4
Uncanny X-Men #540
X-Men #14
Image
Chew #27

Writers' Pull List 06/29/11

2011-07-06T17:45:00.000-04:00

Hello readers! How's it goin? This here is our weekly pull list. It's our way of giving you guys a heads up on all the great books we'll be reading and reviewing!

Arnab's Note: There are a lot of books this week. It's as if all the books that rarely come out, decided, why don't we all just come out on the same day. And then they did.

Matt's Note: Children's Crusade Children's Crusade Children's Crusade

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #7
Detective Comics #878
Flashpoint: Green Arrow Industries #1
Gotham City Sirens #24
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #11
T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents #8
Marvel
Avenger's Children's Crusade #6
FF #5
Uncanny X-Men #539
X-Men: Prelude to Schism #4
Vertigo
American Vampire #16
Image
Last Mortal #2
Walking Dead #86
Top Cow
Artifacts #8

Matt's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #7
Flashpoint: Green Arrow Industries #1
Flashpoint: Project Superman #1
Gotham City Sirens #24
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #11
Wonder Woman #612
Marvel
Avenger's Children's Crusade #6
Uncanny X-Men #539
X-Men: Prelude to Schism #4
Vertigo
American Vampire #16

He's one of us. That's all that matters.

2011-06-29T05:26:00.000-04:00

New Mutants #26 ***
Writers: Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning
Artists: Leandro Fernandez and Andres Mossa
Cover Artist: Marko Djurdejevic
Publisher: Marvel

My review for this book is quite simple. The story is great. This group of junior X-Men are on a mission to locate and rescue Nathaniel Grey. It's an interesting concept and while there hasn't been much action, that looks like it will pick up next issue. The art is not great. The figures are often distorted and warped and at times is a distraction. However, the alien freak and the graffiti did end up looking good, but it wasn't good enough to save the art.

X-Men Legacy #251 ****
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Khoi Pham, Tom Palmer, Craig Yeung, and Nelson DeCastro
Cover Artist: Mico Suayan and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

Ever since Age of X began this title has been a beast, and not like one of those lumpy, lazy, annoying beasts. But a badass, powerful beast. The story and the writing continue to be very strong by Carey. Some of Legions personalities have attempted to make a break from their host. Unfortunately, one of these personalities has been setting a major trap for them. I'm not exactly sure how this book is planning on handling the Legion story and the Rachel Summers and co. story, whether it will alternate by arc or by issue, either way though, I'm stoked. The art was just alright, nothing amazing but nothing as bad as New Mutants.

Check out my DC reviews here and check out my Flashpoint special reviews here!

Writer's Pull List: 6-22-2011

2011-06-23T02:53:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Today is new comic book today. Which means you need to go out and buy some books, and this here list will let you know what books you should be buying.

Arnab's Note:The unfortunate news of the Green Lantern movie's well, unsuccessful nature has deterred me from watching it, which is a shame, because I had wanted it to succeed.

Matt's Note: I do not agree with the existence of a "Wolverine & The X-Men" book.

Arnab's list:
DC
Batman: Gates of Gotham #2
Flashpoint: Kid Flash Lost #1
Green Arrow #13
Marvel
New Mutants #26
X-Men Legacy #251

Matt's List:
DC
Brightest Day Aftermath: The Search for Swamp Thing #1
Flashpoint: Kid Flash Lost starring Bart Allen #1
Flashpoint: Reverse Flash
Superman #712
Marvel
New Mutants #26
Secret Avengers #14
X-Men Legacy #251

That means Storm has had enough

2011-06-22T15:28:00.000-04:00

Gladstones School for World Conquerors #2 ****1/2
Writer: Mark Andrew Smith
Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Cover Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Publisher: Image

If you love a quirky, fun book, than this one is for you. This school of villains in training is great fun, because the characters are terribly amusing. The major plot twist is that the villains of the world and the superheroes of the world have made a pact, a peace pact. Every now and then they'll put on a show for the world, but for the most part they're acquaintances of sorts. The kicker, is that these kids training to be supervillains have no idea. This is just an overall terribly amusing and light-hearted book. Great characters, interesting story, and terrific art means excellent read.

Undying Love #3 *****
Writers: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Cover Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Publisher: Image

The last issue, and the beginning of this one really, revealed one major thing: vampires do not need to remain vampires. That's pretty much been John's driving motivation this entire time and now he's got a glimmer of hope. This issue was split between a flashback and the present. The flashback gave us a glimpse of Mei's past and the present gives us a glimpse of what could be Mei's future. The important thing to take away from this book, is that under it all it's just a love story. Sure it involves vampires, but that's just a secondary theme. This book is strikingly different to Snyder's American Vampire, but at the same time both are amazing books.

Generation Hope #8 ****
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salvador Espin
Cover Artist: Salvador Espin and Morry Hollowell
Publisher: Marvel

I've been a tad hard on this book from its inception. However, with this book, things are finally beginning to click. There are two things that were absolutely great about this issue. The first thing, is that this issue was hilarious. Idie's little religious rant about hell burning her, I couldn't stop laughing. Kenji's bit while choosing a code name? Hilarious. This was just an amazingly funny issue. Now, to the more important factor. At the end of the book Kenji and Laurie start talking about what Hope's actual effect has been on all of them, and that's exciting.

Uncanny X-Men #538 ****
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Cover Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

Kitty is back! This issue started of a little weird. Kitty was running around all solid and whatnot, and I can't imagine I was the only one who was confused by it. But once you stopped thinking about it, because clearly it would be explained later, everything sailed much more smoothly. The art, as usual, was flippin' gorgeous. I am terribly saddened that the art team is about to change, because this team was a big part of what brought me back to this book.

X-Factor #221 ***1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artists: Dennis Calero and Brian Reber
Cover Artists: David Yardin
Publisher: Marvel

It would appear that the end of Necrosha was not, in fact, the end. Some of the undead, such as Feral, were left around. Even worse, for Shatterstar and Rahne at least, was that there are also a bunch of feline gods running around trying to kill them. While the plot is still a little strange, things are starting to pick up. My guess is that Layla Miller has a lot to do with what's going on, what with her magical door and all. The art is still a bit off; I'd like to have Emmanuela back.

X-Men #13 ****
Writer: Chris Yost
Artists: Paco Medina and Dalibor Talajic
Cover Artists: Ed McGuinness and Paco Medina
Publisher: Marvel

I think it's safe to say that Chris Yost should always be writing an X-book. The mystery behind the Evolutionaries and their first visit still remains, well, a mystery. Currently there are three main stories here. There's Magneto's part, Emma's, and Scott's. The pacing is great, the action is nice, and the overall tone is just great. The art looks gorgeous.

X-Men Prelude to Schism #3 *****
Writer: Paul Jenkins
Artists: Will Conrad and Lee Loughridge
Cover Artist: Giuseppe Camuncoli
Publisher: Marvel

The sheer awesomeness that is this prelude is getting me terribly excited for Schism. I think when people read comics they immediately expect and desire action and fireworks and all that good stuff, but you are not going to find that here, or in any of the Prelude books. These books are at their roots, character profiles. The first two books focused on Xavier and Magneto; how they started off, what they did, and where they are now. The same goes for this book, but the focus is on Cyclops, leader of the mutants, and what his decision will be in the face of this new threat. The issue was just fantastic and I do recommend it to all of you.

Read my DC reviews here and read my Flashpoint reviews here!

Writer's Pull List 06-15-11

2011-06-15T14:36:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Today is new comic book today. Which means you need to go out and buy some books, and this here list will let you know what books you should be buying.

Arnab's Note: All 52 DC books have now been announced and I can't tell you how disappointed I am in all of this.

Matt's Note: Here's hoping Green Lantern isn't as big a pile of shite as the reviews are claiming it is.

Arnab's list:
DC
Batman #711
Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #1
Teen Titans #96
Marvel
Generation Hope #8
Uncanny X-Men #538
X-Factor #221
X-Men #13
X-Men Prelude to Schism #3
Image
Gladstones School for World Conquerors #2
Undying Love #3

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #711
Flashpoint: Wonder Woman and the Furies #1
Marvel
Generation Hope #8
Uncanny X-Men #538
X-Factor #221
X-Men #13
X-Men Prelude to Schism #3
Invincible Iron Man #505
Avengers #14

There is a world behind the one we know

2011-06-14T20:17:00.000-04:00

I figured that since I was late enough as it was, I would just combine last week's books with this week's.

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Sean Murphy
Cover Artist: Sean Murphy
Publisher: Vertigo

At this point in time, I think it's perfectly safe to say that Scott Snyder can do no wrong. From the American Vampire series, to Detective Comics, and now to the American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest, this man is a literary genius. This mini-series follows Jim Book's daughter, Felicia, who is struggling with being an enhanced, but not vampire, human. At the same time, Cash, (remember him?), is having to deal with a monstrous child. What appears to be the driving plot for this story is a cure for vampirism. We get to see things from the point of view of the vampire hunters, those that have dedicated their lives to eradicating the creatures. When you start reading the book you get reintroduced to characters that have been gone for a while, but it's so well written it's almost as if they never left to begin with; it's like catching up with an old friend. And that's a major testament to how well this book is written. Sean Murphy is handling the art for this and his work is fantastic. The linework, the gritty feel, everything about the art is fantastic and it really enhances the story.

Fear Itself #3 ***
Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Stuart Immonen, Wade Von Grawbadger, and Laura Martin
Cover Artist: Stuart Immonen and Steve McNiven
Publisher: Marvel

At the beginning of this event I wasn't sure how much I'd like this series. It basically looked like a story about a bunch of hammers. And lets be honest, it is. But even still, it's a really good read. The issue takes place on a couple of fronts, but for the most part, the major events take place in Asgard and on Earth. On Asgard Thor makes a final appeal to his father and is now on his way back to Earth. And on Earth there are more and more changes. But that final page was a shocker. It will be really interesting to see how long it lasts.

S.H.I.E.L.D. vol. 2 #1 *****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Dustin Weaver
Cover Artist: Gerald Parel
Publisher: Marvel

After a short hiatus, Hickman and Weaver have returned to us in the form of this brilliant book. The main plot of the book starts off right where it left off, in the middle of a battle between Newton's men and DaVinci's men. However, the bulk of this issue gives us some background information on Michelangelo's role in all of this, and believe me, he's played a major role. I couldn't be more ecstatic that this series is back. the creative team doesn't miss a bit between the last issue and this one. The story is still fantastic, the art is absolutely gorgeous. Basically, what you should do right now is go ahead and go buy the S.H.I.E.L.D. vol.1 hardcover, catch up and then start reading vol. 2.

Uncanny X-Force #11 ****1/2
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Mark Brooks, Andrew Currie, and Dean White
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

The Age of Apocalypse returns here and it's a flipping blast. In order to save Warren, the team risks traveling to the treacherous universe, unfortunately though, they get trapped there. The best part of this issue , other than Deadpool's hilarious self (which, in my opinion, isn't used as often as he should be,) is watching Logan interact around Nightcrawler and it will be even more interesting to watch him around Jean.

X-23 #11 ****
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artists: Sana Takeda
Cover Artists: Kalman Andrasofszky
Publisher: Marvel

When Gambit joined this group, I thought to myself, wow that's a strange addition. But 10 issues later, I can't imagine a better fit. His character is the exact thing that Laura needed and continues to need in my opinion. What has been a surprisingly fun addition is Jubilee. Logan has always had a relationship with Laura, so it's no surprise that his character meshes well in this book. On the other hand, vampire Jubilee was a gamble, a gamble that pays off in my opinion.

X-Men Legacy #250 ****
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Khoi Pham and Steve Kurth
Cover Artist: Mico Suayan and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

This issue basically set up the direction for this title for at least the next arc, maybe even the next two or three arcs. One the one side, on Earth, the Legacy team is going after a group of individuals from Legion's mind that were able to manifest after the fall of Age of X. On the other half, outside the universe, Rachel, Havoc, Polaris and Korvus have found themselves trapped on a planet with angry warriors. No doubt the Legacy team will eventually be going to look for them once they've dealt with Legion's nonsense. I, as I'm sure many Rachel, Havoc, and Polaris fans, couldn't be more excited that they will be returning.

X-Factor #220 ***
Writer: Peter David
Artists: Paul Davidson and Brian Reber
Cover Artists: David Yardin
Publisher: Marvel

This was an interesting issue. It centered around Shatterstar and the pregnant Rahne. The art was absolutely tragic, other than wolf Rahne. My favorite thing about Shatterstar is just how funny he is, especially because he doesn't even realize he's being funny. I'm still not a fan of Rahne, but I don't mentally cringe whenever I see her now, so that's something. Currently though, I'm most interested Layla and how she's helped Guido.

X-Men #12 ****Writer: Chris Yost
Artists: Paco Medina, Dalibor Talajic, Juan Vlasco
Cover Artists: Paco Medina
Publisher: Marvel

This was a really strong issue. As it is still the beginning of hte story, we're still getting bits and pieces of the story as we go. I love that we get more and more of the story as we go on, instead of having it told to us from the beginning. The art is gorgeous to look at. I can honestly say that I am very interested to see how the X-Men were able to get rid of the Evolutionaries in the past, as well as how they are going to be able to get rid of them now.

As usual my DC reviews can be read here! And you can also read the Flashpoint special here!

Writer's Pull List 06/08/11

2011-06-08T11:27:00.000-04:00

What up folks! This is our pull list. It's pretty self explanatory, it's what we will be reading and reviewing. It's pretty consistent, but with a whole new batch of DC books coming your way, things are bound to shake up soon.

Arnab's note: I absolutely hate what DC has done with Dick and Barbara. Hate.

Matt's note: This DC Reboot news makes even less sense than it initially did. It's reached the point of absurdity.

Arnab's list:
DC
Batman and Robin #24
Birds of Prey #13
Red Robin #24
Marvel
X-Men Legacy #250
Vertigo
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1

Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #24
Birds of Prey #13
Red Robin #24
Booster Gold #45
Marvel
X-Men Legacy #250
Vertigo
American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #1

Writer's Pull List 06/01/11

2011-06-03T13:30:00.000-04:00

Hello good people of the world. This is our pull list. That means it's a list of books that we will be reading and reviewing. It also means it is the time for you to freshen up your own lists as well as recommend some great books to us.

Arnab's Note: How many of you heard DC's big news? If you haven't, well it's a big one.

Matt's Note: X-Men First Class this week! I cannot wait.

Arnab's List:
DC
Flashpoint #2
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #1
Superboy #8
Marvel
Fear Itself #3
S.H.I.E.L.D. vol. 2 #1
Uncanny X-Force #11
X-23 #11
X-Factor #220
X-Men #12

Matt's List:
DC
Flashpoint #2
Flashpoint: Batman Knight of Vengeance #1
Flashpoint: Abin Sur Green Lantern
Superboy #8
Batman Beyond #6
Wonder Woman #611
Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. vol. 2 #1
Uncanny X-Force #11
X-Factor #220
X-Men #12

Let's cut all the babies in half!

2011-05-31T17:52:00.001-04:00

American Vampire #15 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

Holy shit on a shish kebab. If you want lessons on how to create a brilliant book, you read this one. This arc has taken this series to a whole new level in so many ways. For the first part, this story has been absolutely fantastic. There's a new breed of vampire, or rather a very old breed that has gone unnoticed, and apparently they can wound Skinner. How sweet of a plot twist is that? (No pun intended) Pearl, sweet Pearl, is on her way to save her beloved Henry, but after that reveal I can only imagine she's being led into a trap. Speaking of Henry, he and his army pals have all been herded into some type of torture building. This whole story is so flipping amazing. And the art is absolutely gorgeous. Albuquerque has stepped it up a whole mess of notches for this arc and this issue. There are a whole mess of vampire stories out right now, across all mediums, but by far this story stands out as brilliant. Snyder and Albuquerque, issue after issue, redefine everything you know about vampires and not only that, but the vampires are then integrated into world history. Absolutely riveting stuff here.

FF #4 ***1/2
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Barry Kitson and Paul Mounts
Cover Artists: Daniel Acuna and Marko Djurdjevic
Publisher: Marvel

Hickman has done a fantastic job with first the Fantastic Four and now FF. I mean, such a great job that he's gotten me, an avid disliker of the Fantastic Four (other than Johnny, who unfortunately has passed on) to follow this book issue after issue. That being said, I don't feel like enough happens in every issue. Which isn't really to say that the issue's are filled with fluff, because they're not. There are just so many characters that it's hard to have a fulfilling story. It doesn't help that I find Reed to be an outright bore and I can't stand Ben's "poor me" attitude. Sosann, I'm indifferent to; she hasn't done anything to make me dislike her, but then again I don't find her that great of a character. However, what I believe makes this book is the rest of the Future Foundation, and that includes Spiderman. The rest of the cast is so great and the actual story is great as well, so I'll be sticking with it.

Uncanny X-Men #537 ****
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Cover Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

I cannot fathom how Gillen could write such a great book here and fairly bland one in Generation Hope. Regardless, this issue was great. As the visitors from Breakworld are settling on Utopia, and unfortunately for the X-Men Kruun is roaming around the island almost undetected. Kitty made her return a while back and unfortunately she's been in a state of intangibility. Apparently though, that doesn't apply to the unique metal from Breakworld. This issue is filled with excitement, action, suspense, everything you can ask for.

X-Men Legacy #249 ***
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Rafa Sandoval and Matthew Wilson
Cover Artist: Mico Suayan and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

There are two things you need to take away from this issue. Grandpa Max is a cradle robber and Rogue is apparently into old farts. I shit you not, at the end of this issue you will shudder in fear and disgust. The other thing you need to take away from this is that Frenzy is crazy, balls to the wall, crazy. Oh, and she's joining the X-Men, which pretty much makes this Legacy team one of the most powerful books out there.

The Walking Dead #85 ****1/2
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artists: Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artists: Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Publisher: Image

After years of the zombie outbreak and death after death, as a reader you always brace yourself for the worst. Be it the death of a beloved character, or dismemberment, or even just the departure of a certain character, nothing is ever really certain. After the violence and destruction that ran rampant in the last issue, this one was far more quiet, but in a good way. Rick has finally begun to see the strength in numbers, in a community, and he's looking to create that here in Alexandria. The group is also starting to make a more democratic approach to governing. They're working as a single unit and that's absolutely brilliant. Ever since issue #83 I've been on pins and needles whenever I open up this book. I need to know what is going to happen to Carl, like really need to know. That's definitely a testament to the creative team, for developing a character that I'm so emotionally invested in.

As usual, my DC reviews can be found here: http://comicattack.net/2011/05/coir52511/

I think you're probably too young and too stupid to be scared.

2011-05-26T19:43:00.001-04:00

Generation Hope #7 ***
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salvador Espin
Cover Artist: Salvador Espin and Morry Hollowell
Publisher: Marvel

I can't exactly put into words what it is about this series that isn't grabbing onto me. I think a large part is that I find these characters to be tremendously boring. The lights, who I still find to be highly unoriginal, are just so cutoff from the rest of the X-Men, both emotionally and physically. Normally I wouldn't really have a problem with a team that works independently, but let's get one thing straight, this gang is a team of kids. I don't understand what direction the writers are trying to go with this series, but I'm still hoping that we get an inkling of that sometime soon.

Namor First Mutant Annual #1 **1/2
Writer: James Asmus
Artist: Max Fiumara and Norman Lee
Cover Artist: Black Frog
Publisher: Marvel

Oh my word, the art in this issue is painful to say the least. The humans are distorted and awkward looking, in an almost unbearable manner. In contrast, however, the aliens and other monsters did look good. Overall, I thought this entire story is forgettable, though this issue did wrap things up nicely. My favorite part of the book is when, in the middle of chaos and destruction, Captain America tells Hope she's being spoiled and stupid. Ain't that the truth?

Uncanny X-Force #10 ****
Writer: Rick Remender
Artists: Billy Tan and Rich Elson
Cover Artists: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

This book comes with a frequency that is almost unmatched (except I think X-Factor.) It feels like there's a new issue every two weeks, and believe me I am not complaining in the slightest. Remender is creating quite the story here with this book. I love the way everything connects back to his first arc. The direction it is headed in, a return to the Age of Apocalypse, is so freaking awesome, I can't wait. The art continues to impress, Tan is doing a remarkable job with it.

X-23 #10 ****
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artists: Sana Takeda
Cover Artists: Kalman Andrasofszky
Publisher: Marvel

After dealing with the wreck of a situation in Madripoor, X-23 and Gambit have made it to Paris. When Gambit learns of Laura's suicide attempt, he quickly calls in some reinforcements. Laura has had a devastatingly tragic life and this series has been doing a great job of transforming her from a mindless killer into a regular person. Logan brings Jubilee to Paris with him and that brings up a very interesting question: what would happen to Logan, X--23, Daken, or any other person with healing powers, if they were drained dry by a vampire. Liu is doing a fantastic job with this book and I can't wait for more.

X-Factor #219 ****1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artists: Emanuela Lupacchino and Guillermo Ortego
Cover Artists: David Yardin
Publisher: Marvel

I feel as if this book doesn't get all the of the acclaim it deserves. The team is still working on Mayor Jameson's job, but they're not happy that the old fart is keeping secrets from them. They learn about the experiments that were done on the three assassins are able to locate and track them down just in time to save Black Cat. What you should take from this arc is that Monet St. Croix is a bad ass lady. I didn't know her really well before reading X-Factor but man is she great. There's also something going on with Guido and Layla and I am definitely intrigued. I've liked Layla since she first appeared and I love her role in the series.

X-Men Giant-Size #1 ****1/2
Writer: Chris Yost
Artists: Paco Medina, Dalibor Talajic, Juan Vlasco
Cover Artists: Simone Bianchi and Paco Medina
Publisher: Marvel

Chris Yost is back at the helm of an X-book (this one segues into the next X-Men arc) and it looks like the arc will be fantastic. This issue marks the introduction of the Evolutionaries, powerful beings meant to preserve the natural balance of things. They had previously encountered the X-Men before, but the team had apparently been made to forget that encounter. The writing is great; the story flows effortlessly. The art in this book is really great as well. Everything about this series makes me believe that the upcoming arc in X-Men will be great.

X-Men Prelude to Schism #2 ****
Writer: Paul Jenkins
Artists: Andrea Mutti
Cover Artist: Giuseppe Camuncoli
Publisher: Marvel

These prelude books have been fantastic reads, in my opinion. They're doing a great job of setting up for Schism which is coming out later on in the year. Normally I would think that a book that is meant to set up an event is almost pointless, however, if these books are any indication of how good Schism will be, I am totally on board. This story revolves around Magneto and his relationship with Scott. It starts off with Magneto, or Max, and his family in Germany moving on to the first time he encounters Scott. The best part about these books are that they are character and relationship based. So far the two have been about two of the most powerful mutant leaders of the past and their relationship with the current leader.

Last Mortal #1 ****
Writer: John Mahoney and Filip Sablik
Artists: Thomas Nachlik
Cover Artist: Thomas Nachlik
Publisher: Marvel

This is a new series that comes highly recommended by my comic book shop. The basis of the story is that the protagonist, Alec, is wracked with guilt over his friend's death, but when he attempts to kill himself he finds out that he can't die. The writing was strong, the story is interesting, and the direction the story is going in is also great. The art was really nice as well. Though, the fact that it's black and white sort of irks me. Not to say that I think it's ugly or anything, but after seeing the cover, I would have liked to see more of that color on the interiors, even if it was just the characters in colors with black and white backgrounds.

Writer's Pull List 05-25-11

2011-05-25T10:16:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! It's time for the pull list. Our chance to let you know what we read and your chance to let us know if we should be reading something else.

Arnab's Note: You may have noticed my reviews haven't gone up yet. It's because I've been a tad busy graduating. Fear not, they will be posted soon.

Matt's Note: First, congrats to Arnab! Second, I hope to be getting a new job soon, which should hopefully make me hate life less and thus blog more.

Arnab's List:
DC
Detective Comics #877
Gotham City Sirens #23
Green Arrow #12
Green Lantern #66
Green Lantern Corps #60
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #10
Marvel
FF#4
Uncanny X-Men #537
X-Men Legacy #249
Vertigo
American Vampire #15
Image
Walking Dead #85

Matt's List:
DC

Gotham City Sirens #23

Green Lantern #66
Green Lantern Corps #60
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #10
IDW
Dungeons and Dragons #7
Marvel
Secret Avengers #13
Uncanny X-Men #537
X-Men Legacy #249
Vertigo
American Vampire #15

Writer's Pull List 05-18-11

2011-05-25T10:14:00.000-04:00

Hey folks! It's that time again, the time for us to let you all know what we will be reading and reviewing. It's also the time for any of you to recommend anything you think we should be reading.

Arnab's Note: It feels like I'm reading more and more books every month.

Matt's Note: This is a week late all because of me. Sorry folks. The proper one for this week will also be up momentarily.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #710
Batman and Robin #23
Batman: Gates of Gotham #1
Teen Titans #95
Thunder Agents #7
Marvel
Generation Hope #7
Namor First Mutant Annual #1
Uncanny X-Force #10
X-23 #10
X-Factor #219
X-Men Giant-Size #1
X-Men Prelude to Schism #2
TopCow
Last Mortal #1

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #710
Batman and Robin #23
Booster Gold #44

Marvel
Generation Hope #7
Uncanny X-Force #10
X-Factor #219
X-Men Giant-Size #1
X-Men Prelude to Schism #2
Avengers #13
Invincible Iron Man #504

Bring him home

2011-05-17T16:36:00.001-04:00

Chew #27 ****
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

One of the best things about this series, in my opinion, is that even after two years the creative team has the ability to surprise use readers at every turn. With this issue we get a bit of a flash forward preview of what is in store for us and it is all exciting stuff. I think, if done properly, a flash forward is a great way of setting up the upcoming story lines. It gives readers an idea of what's to come, but it also builds up a whole bunch of tension and anticipation, all good things in my opinion. Issue after issue, this series kills it every single time, in both the writing and the art.

FF #3 ****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artists: Steve Epting, Rick Magyar, and Butch Guice
Cover Artists: Daniel Acuna and Marko Djurdjevic
Publisher: Marvel

After the last issue I was all ready for a Valeria vs. Reed matchup and even though that is not what we will be getting, I've got to say it was still pretty exciting. I know that this book stemmed off of the Fantastic Four, but I've got to say that by and large the most interesting parts of this book have nothing to do with the remaining three members of that team. Reed, Sue, and Ben may have been major players back in the day, but this book's success, in my opinion, has nothing to do with them. That being said, this issue was all kinds of cool. Valeria saved a bunch of Reeds from different universes, back in Fantastic Four, and now she needs to stop them from destroying the world. I would really like to see more of Franklin, who is my favorite part of this book, but other than that this was really good.

New Mutants #25 ***1/2
Writers: Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning
Artists: Leandro Fernandez and Andres Mossa
Cover Artist: Marko Djurdejevic
Publisher: Marvel

After the fallout of Age of X, Cyclops is on a mission to tie up all of the X-Men's loose ends. And to do that he needs a team, the New Mutants, who at this point need a new leader, enter Dani. Ever since the disaster that was Dark X-Men I, as I'm sure many other fans, have been wondering what happened to Nate Grey. Thankfully, that is about to be addressed as the New Mutants next mission is to locate Nate and bring him home. Awesome.

X-Men #11 ***
Writer: Victor Gischler
Artist: Al Barrionuevo
Cover Artist: David Yardin
Publisher: Marvel

In case any of you are worried, I'm pretty sure this issue was just a one-shot and vampire are, in fact, not back. What this was though, was a nice little issue revolving around Xavier and Jubilee. Admittedly the two are not in my top ten mutants list, hell Jubilee's definitely not in my top 20. Regardless, in small doses I do find them to be likable. In this issue, for example, my dislike of both of them barely was an issue and overall I thought the story and art were enjoyable.

X-Men Legacy #248 ***
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Jorge Molina and Craig Yeung
Cover Artist: Mico Suayan and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

Like I mentioned in my New Mutants review, these two series' are at a point where the X-Men are going to be in a period of rebuild and they are going to be tying up some loose ends. I've been speculating for quite some time regarding the return of Rachel, Polaris, and Havoc (personally, I thought they'd make it back in time for Second Coming, clearly I was wrong.) Anyway, I am thrilled that Daddy Summers is missing his kids and is sending out search parties for them. Also, while a part of me feels bad for Frenzy, I also feel like she's losing grip of her mind and will likely cause problems some time in the future. Great new directions for this and New Mutants in my opinion.

As usual my DC reviews can be found at comicattack.net!

Writer's Pull List 5-11-2011

2011-05-16T04:48:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Did you make it to free comic book day?

Here it is, our weekly list of the things we're reading. Let us know if we are crazy for our choices, or if there's some gem out there we're both missing.

Arnab's Note: I am pretty excited about this week's batch of books.

Matt's Note: Thor was great fun for the comic geek. Stay until after the credits for a teaser for Avengers that I thought was awesome.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #6
Birds of Prey #12
Flash #12
Flashpoint #1
Red Robin #23
Marvel
FF #3
New Mutants #25
X-Men #11
X-Men Legacy #248
Image
Chew #27
Undying Love #2

Matt's List
DC
Batman Incorporated #6
Birds of Prey #12
The Flash #12
Flashpoint #1
Red Robin #23
Superman #711
Marvel
New Mutants #25
X-Men #11
X-Men Legacy #248

You have become a greater man than I

2011-05-10T15:34:00.002-04:00

Undying Love #2 ****1/2
Writers: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Cover Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Publisher: Image

I know by now a great deal of you no longer want anything to do with vampires, but if you're not reading this, then you're truly missing out. Now, technically this issue is set to be released this Wed. but because I had the great opportunity of meeting these guys at FCBD, I also got an early copy. And because I've read it already, I know what I'm talking about when I say you should pick this book up. Issue #1 is already in it's third printing, so that should mean something.
As I was saying. Not only is this a great, and different, take on vampires but what sells this book is the storytelling ability, in both the writing and the art (which, by the way, the same two guys do both.) There is a significant amount of violence, which is to be expected, but it just works with the story. The underlying story though, is a love story, and it is apparent, even amidst the severed body parts and gushing blood.

Gladstones School for World Conquerors #1 ***1/2
Writer: Mark Andrew Smith
Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Cover Artists: Armand Villavert Jr. and Carlos Carrasco
Publisher: Image

At the recommendation of my comic book store guy, Nick, we picked up this quirky new book. Basically, it's about a school for villain-in-training kids where they learn all the basics of villain-ry, such as victory speeches and battle training. This was a really fun read. The plot is interesting, the characters are amusing, and the art looks great. There's also a bit of a twist in the story which I think is great. The kids all believe they're training to be first class villains, but not everything is as it seems. It's that kind of a twist that is alway enjoyable in a new series.

Fear Itself #2 ***
Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Stuart Immonen, Wade Von Grawbadger, and Laura Martin
Cover Artist: Stuart Immonen and Steve McNiven
Publisher: Marvel

This is actually turning out to be a fairly exciting book. Not that I didn't believe in Matt Fraction's ability to tell a story ( loved his run on Uncanny X-Men) the plot just didn't interest me. Now that it has started though, it has grabbed my attention. Having said all of that, this issue was more of a story building issue. A lot of stuff happened, but at the same time very little happened. Hammers have begun dropping from the skies and have claimed new wielders. Meanwhile in Asgard, Thor has been imprisoned by Odin, who is alarmed by the return of the All-Father. My Asgardian history is minimal at best, so I'm not particularly sure why everyone's so afraid, but that being said, this is so far developing into a great event.

Uncanny X-Force #9 ****1/2
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Billy Tan
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

Seemingly every two weeks now (not really but still), we get a new issue and I'm loving it. The previous stories had the habit of going something like this: Deadpool scopes out a place, Deadpool gets into trouble, the Team comes in, Battle ensues, and then it ends and it has worked extremely well so far. This issue takes a different, and some would say necessary, route. Wolverine takes the spotlight, for the first time, in this issue as he runs an emotional errand for Magneto. The art in this issue was just gorgeous stuff, Billy Tan is definitely bringing his A game. I love it when a great writer gets paired up with great artists, which has been the case this entire series in my opinion, because then it removes the chances for any distractions.

X-Men: Prelude to Schism #1 ****1/2
Writer: Paul Jenkins
Artists: Roberto de la Torre and Lee Loughridge
Cover Artist: Giuseppe Camuncoli
Publisher: Marvel

This was terrific. Really great stuff. This book, as the title so clearly denotes, is a prelude to the next major X-Men event: Schism. There is a serious trouble coming for the X-Men and the casualties are going to be very high. This issue has the senior advisors all in a tizzy worrying about what Scott will do. The book is essentially a focus on Scott and his new role of Leader, which you might argue is what most of the books have been like recently, but I kid you not when I say that the way this one plays out is different. The art was really fantastic as well, the line quality, the colors it all worked. This has really got me excited about Schism.

Artifacts #7 **1/2
Writer: Ron Marz
Artists: Whilce Portacio, Joe Weems, and Kalman Andrasofszky
Cover Artists: Joe Weems
Publisher: Top Cow

Artifacts is at a real strange point in the event. I feel the same way about this as I do about Fear Itself, a lot of stuff has happened but at the same time it also feels as if nothing has happened. The only difference between the books is that Fear Itself is on issue #2 and this is on #7. This issue starts off showing us that nobody on the side of good is dead, which is shocking because Aphorodite IX exploded. Sarah killed her, but it turns out there are hundreds more like her. (See, nothing changed) The art was significantly better in this issue, but even that did little to make this a great read. It's not that there is no action, which there is and it's done well, there just doesn't seem like there's been much progression.

As is the norm, my DC reviews can be found here: http://comicattack.net/2011/05/coir50411/

Free Comic Book Day

2011-05-08T04:30:00.004-04:00

So as most of you know by now, Saturday was Free Comic Book Day. My local comic book store, Collector's Paradise, has a fantastic event every year. They recently opened a second store, so this month they had two major events. Unfortunately, I could only get to one store. Check out some pictures after the jump!

Look at all those people that were there to see a wide array of comics creators

This is my sister, perusing through our early copy of Undying Love #2

This is Nick. He's one of my comic book guys; he knows lots and is totally awesome
(and as you can see, completely unaware his picture is being taken)

This is Daniel Freedman and Tomm Coker, the creative team of Undying LoveI know it's early, but I'm going to predict early on that this will be the best new series of the year, so pick it up!

And what's a comic book event without Batman?

Oh look, there's me!

Writer's Pull List 5-4-11

2011-05-04T13:01:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! And a happy Star Wars day to you all! You've found yourself in a galaxy far far away, wait no, this is just our pull list. Our way of letting you know what you should be reading, what we're reading, and what we'll be reviewing.

Arnab's Note: No note, wait no. Saturday is free comic book day, so find a participating Local Comic Book store and have fun!

Matt's Note: Brightest Day and Age of X are over, so let's gear up for Schism and Flashpoint.

Arnab's List:
DC
Superboy #7
Marvel
Fear Itself #2
Uncanny X-Force #9
X-Men Prelude to Schism #1
Top Cow
Artifacts #7

Matt's List:
DC
Superboy #7
Batman Beyond #5
Marvel
Uncanny X-Force #9
X-Men Prelude to Schism #1

You have to find a way to get me to that island

2011-05-03T16:00:00.001-04:00

American Vampire #14 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

I'm beginning to sound like a broken record whenever I talk about this series. Henry and his army pals do a little bonding, before trouble sneaks up on them. Never having seen Skinner before is a major setback for these guys and it's actually a fact that I had forgotten about. I am so damn excited for Pearl getting into the action. I am a sucker for a badass female and Pearl is one of them. Snyder has done an amazing job of getting the readers to be emotionally invested in these characters. his characterizations and personal touches make reading this book a fantastic experience. Rafael Albuquerque's art continues to get better and better with every issue. If you had asked me in the beginning if his art could have gotten better I would have been hard pressed to say yes. But this issue is proof that his work can and is constantly getting better.

Age of X Universe #2 ***
Writers: Simon Spurrier
Artists: Koi Pham, Tom Palmer, and Sonia Oback
Cover Artist: Simone Peruzzi
Publisher: Marvel

I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this. For the most part I thought that this issue was fairly well done, better than the first one. It was interesting to see these "heroes" in a new environment and witness the struggle of doing what's right. So why am I conflicted you ask? Because basically this story, these two issues, don't matter. In the overall grand scheme of things, these two issues play no role outside these two issues. And since this isn't a different universe, in the way that Age of Apocalypse is a different universe, I'm hard pressed to figure out why the issues even exist.

FF #2 ****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Steve Epting
Cover Artists: Marko Djurdjevic
Publisher: Marvel

Those of you who didn't read all of Hickman's run on Fantastic Four might be a little confused with parts of this issue. Mainly that a while back Valeria approached a broken Doom and offered him his life back in exchange for something, something the readers were unaware of. Until now. I don't know about you guys, but I think instead of FF this book should be called F&V, Franklin and Valeria, because the way Hickman writes them is fantastic, no pun intended. While everything with Doom is happening, Ben and Susan have a heart to heart about feeling left out of the brainiacs' club, aka the Future Foundation. Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing those two farts go, good riddance (though I am aware that this is highly unlikely).

New Mutants #24 ****
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Steve Kurth and Allen Martinez
Cover Artist: Clay Mann
Publisher: Marvel

Age of X ends with this issue and I for one loved it. With the last issue, everything started crumbling for the monster living in Legion's head. Taking a final stand, however, the monster chose to unleash an army upon the mutants. In the nick of time, Legion regains his memories and takes control, reverting everyone back to their proper places. I think this event will forever be a highlight in Carey's resume. From the beginning the story was smart, interesting, and exciting. Even as the reader starts to realize Legion is the reason for it all, the story behind why changes everything. I loved what Blindfold said at the end, that even though none of it was real the people died thinking it was real and that's what matters.

Uncanny X-Men #536 ***
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Cover Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

The rejects of Breakworld have appealed for asylum and as a semi-recognized state, Scott accepts. I think the major thing to take out of this issue is that Magneto is losing his touch. The former major threat to the entire world was easily duped by his curiosity for metal. I'm hoping that this arc will relieve Kitty of her gravity suit, because she's always been a great character. Overall with respect to story this issue was alright. It felt a lot like a setup middle issue, which I guess it is. The art looked great, I can't be more ecstatic that the Dodsons are back.

X-23 #9 ****
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artists: Ryan Stegman and Michael Babinski
Cover Artists: Kalman Andrasofszky
Publisher: Marvel

I think that this has been a really great crossover event. Would I like some more of Daken and X-23 going at it all assassin status? Of course, who wouldn't. But I think that'd get boring, so I like the story that's going on here. I think if there was a poll taken, X-23 would be the mutant with the saddest life and what she goes through in this issue is tragic. For whatever reason though, Daken decides to help her. These two are related in a very weird way (she's his father's clone, kinda makes her his aunt/mother,) and I wonder if that will end up playing a larger role down the line.

X-Men #10 ***1/2
Writer: Victor Gischler
Artists: Chris Bachalo and Tim Townsend
Cover Artist: Terry Dodson
Publisher: Marvel

Alright, alright, I admit it. Bachalo's art s growing on me, to an extent that I found it to be fairly enjoyable this issue; not amazing, just not terrible. I think it's somewhat apparent that Gischler is writing a story fit towards Bachalo's style and I think that that's great. The story was decent, Spiderman was humorous, and Emma complains a lot. Minor consistency problems aside (since when can Gambit charge Organics. Although, it may no longer be a consistency thing, seeing as Gambit charged Daken in Daken: Dark Wolverine #8, but if that's the case, when did that happen?)

Walking Dead #84 *****
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artists: Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artists: Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Publisher: Image

For the better part of this series the zombies have set the pace, forced the action, and in essence ruled over the living. From this point on, however, that will not be the case. After the gut wrenching shock that came in the last issue, I'm still not going to say what it was, the survivors in Alexandria make a last stand of sorts and take on the throng of zombies. Starting with Rick and Michonne, the survivors made a choice to live and fight for life, something that we haven't seen a lot of. Sure we've seen some fighting, but for the most part it's been flight. Filled with a reborn sense of hope, Kirkman has cleansed these characters in a sense.

As usual, my DC reviews can be read here: ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 04-27-11

2011-04-28T17:08:00.000-04:00

Howdy friends and readers! Here's a list of all the cool books we will be reading and reviewing!

Arnab's Note: Holy hell folks. That is one major awesome group of books we have this week. I am super excited!

Matt's Note: What is everyone's opinion of all the Comic Movie trailers flying around the interwebs? The international trailer for X-Men gives me some hope...

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #5
Brightest Day #24
Flash #11
Green Arrow #11
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #9
Marvel
Age of X Universe #2
FF #2
New Mutants #24
Uncanny X-Men #536
X-23 #9
X-Men #10
Vertigo
American Vampire #14
Image
Walking Dead #84

Matt's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #5
Brightest Day #24
Flash #11
Justice Leage: Generation Lost #24
Wonder Woman #610
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #9
Marvel
Age of X Universe #2
New Mutants #24
Uncanny X-Men #536
X-23 #9
X-Men #10
Avengers #12.1
Secret Avengers #12
Secret Avengers #12.1
Vertigo
American Vampire #14

I'll Kill You

2011-04-26T15:00:00.001-04:00

Daken: Dark Wolverine #8 ****
Writers: Daniel Way and Marjorie Liu
Artists: Marco Checcetto and Frank D'armata
Cover Artist: Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

From the moment I first learned about Daken, I knew he couldn't be trusted. X-23 and Gambit have made it to Madripoor where Daken has become a powerful overlord. X-23 and Daken fought it out in the first part, but seem to come up with a truce in this issue. Unfortunately for Laura and Gambit, Daken is double corssng them. This crossover event has been really good. The writing has been great, smart, interesting. And the art has been fantastic. With four more parts to the story, I'm sure we'll see a couple more twists and turns which will probably be just as entertaining.

Generation Hope #6 ***1/2
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salvador Espin and Jim Charalampidis
Cover Artist: Salvador Espin and Jim Charalampidis
Publisher: Marvel

Just as the new generation of mutants found some down time on Utopia, they're rushed off because of a new mutant. Scott has replaced Rogue with Kitty as their liason and I think that's a great decision. Hope's a snarky, snotty little brat, as usual. Gillen did a nice job of showing off the kids at Utopia on their off day. It was also great seeing how this team worked together after some of Hope's famous training exercises, unfortunately for them it would appear that their leader has led them straight into danger, again. Overall this was probably my favorite issue of the series.

Uncanny X-Force #8 ****
Writer: Rick Remender
Artists: Billy Tan
Cover Artists: Dean White
Publisher: Marvel

With talk of Apocalypse for the first seven issues, it was only a matter of time until Warren's evil doppleganger broke through the barriers. I loved the way Remender played it out. Bringing back the Shadow King to do it was excellent and I loved the way that the tables quickly turned. Things are definitely going to heat up now that the monster has been unleashed. I for one am totally stoked for things to come. The art was fantastic, as we've come to expect from this great book.

X-Factor #218 ****
Writer: Peter David
Artists: Emanuela Lupacchino, Guillermo Ortego and Matt Milla
Cover Artists: David Yardin and Sonia Oback
Publisher: Marvel

This book continues to be great. Mayor Jameson has made some pretty powerful enemies in the past, but these three badass chicks may just be the most powerful. From what we've seen it might take some major skills to take them down, especially when they have no conscience. There is rarely a time when I cheer for the death of anyone, but when Monet rips that bullett out of the sky and sends it into that villainous letch's forehead, I was rooting for Monet all the way. I love the way this book is written and the art is absolutely beautiful. The end of the book had a nice little twist, for two reasons. One, I'm glad Guido's not dead so he and Monet can become a nice couple. And two, I'm sure Layla's going to have a major arc coming up and I couldn't be more excited.

My DC reviews can be found here: ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 4-20-11

2011-04-20T11:17:00.000-04:00

Hello readers! Here's our pull list; our chance to let you know what we are reading and what you should come to expect in the form of reviews.

Arnab's Note: It's another big week this week.

Matt's Note: While the Age of X twist wasn't surprising, I'm still not sure I like it.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #709
Gotham City Sirens #22
Green Lantern #65
Green Lantern Corps #59
Teen Titans #94
Marvel
Generation Hope #6
Uncanny X-Force #8
X-Factor #218

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #709
Gotham City Sirens #22
Green Lantern #65
Green Lantern Corps #59
Teen Titans #94
Marvel
Generation Hope #6
Uncanny X-Force #8
X-Factor #218
Avengers #12
Invincible Iron Man #503
Scarlet #5
IDW
Dungeons and Dragons #6
Image
68

Some kind of enormous fight's happening behind me, isn't it?

2011-04-19T16:07:00.003-04:00

S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity ****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Zachary Baldus, Kevin Mellon, Nick Pitarra, Gabriel Hernandez Walta
Cover Artists: Gerald Parel, Dustin Weaver, and Christina Strain
Publisher: Marvel

Those of you who enjoyed the first arc of S.H.I.E.L.D. and are waiting patiently for the next arc to start must pick up this book. It was so great. Hickman is doing a fantastic job integrating science fiction into the human history and it is mindblowing at how well how everything flows seamlessly. While the issue does leave the reader wistfully wishing for Weaver's art, it gets the job done.

Steve Rogers Super Soldier Annual #1 **1/2
Writer: James Asmus
Artist: Ibraim Roberson
Cover Artist: Ibraim Roberson
Publisher: Marvel

Uh. There is so much wrong about this story. So instead of listing off those things, I'll just say what's good about it. For one, the art is absolutely gorgeous. Ibraim Roberson has done such an amazing job in the past with the X-books and does not fail to bring it in this issue. With regards to the story, the best part of the book was when Steve Rogers gave Hope the verbal smackdown. While I'm talking about Hope, I don't particularly understand what Marvel is trying to accomplish with the character. I mean, are they purposefully trying to make readers dislike her? She got out of her shackles faster than a blind guy and then belittled him for it? WTF?

Uncanny X-Force #7 ****
Writer: Rick Remender
Artists: Esad Ribic, John Lucas, and Matthew Wilson
Cover Artists: Esad Ribic, John Lucas, and Matthew Wilson
Publisher: Marvel

Oh hell yes. This book is so good on so many different levels. For one thing the art contines to be lovely. It's got a great gritty, graphic approach to it that really enhances the overall story. The only thing that I don't understand is why Deadpool had to change his costume. It's a little too similar to Fantomex's costume and it makes no sense when it comes to blending in to the environment, but that's a small complaint. Fantomex is the this arc's headliner and Remender handles that extremely well. "The World" is one of the more interesting aspects to come out of Morrison's run on the New X-Men and Remender does a great job of incorporating that into his story. The end reveal is shocking and totally awesome. Not only does it tie the first two arcs together, making the series a more cohesive single plot, but it also sets up the upcoming "Age of Apocalypse" plot.

Uncanny X-Men #535 ****
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Cover Artists: Terry Dodson, Rachel Dodson, and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

It's the start of Gillen's run on Uncanny and this issue also marks the return of Breakworld. For those of you not in the know, Breakworld was the story arc which ended Joss Whedon's run in Astonishing X-Men and saw Kittty absorbed into a bullet. That was a great arc and I hope this arc does it justice. This first issue was pretty well done. There was a nice undertone of humor in an otherwise serious situation. The end reveal was intriguing, to say the least. We'll have to see how everything else progresses. Oh! How could I forget, a hearty welcome back to the artist team of the Terry and Rachel Dodson and Justin Ponsor. Their art was a major part of what Made Uncanny so great in recent years, so it's nice to have that back.

X-Men Legacy #247 ****
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Clay Maan and Jay Leisten
Cover Artist: Mico Suayan
Publisher: Marvel

I'm sure a lot of people, like yours truly, had suspected Legion's role in this event but even with that, the reveal was handled in a great way. The flashback explaining Xavier and Nemesis' role in all of this was intriguing, it was unexpected, but at the same it it made perfect sense. Throughout the event we've been seeing Carey do remarkable things with the characters in this alternate world and he continues to provide in this issue. The scene on the battle field between Basilisk and Cannonball was brilliant. We start to see signs of the the "real" Scott and Sam shining through the farce and it is awesome.

As usual, my DC reviews can be found at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 4-13-11

2011-04-13T17:03:00.000-04:00

Well hello readers! This is our pull list. Basically just a preview list of the books we shall be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Last week was a nice breather, but we're back to business this week with 11 books.

Matt's Note: What is everyone thinking about Age of X?

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #22
Birds of Prey #11
Flash #10
Red Robin #22
Superboy #6
T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents #6
Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity
Steve Rogers Super Soldier Annual #1
Uncanny X-Force #7
Uncanny X-Men #535
X-Men Legacy #247

Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #22
Birds of Prey #11
Flash #10
Red Robin #22
Justice League: Generation Lost #23
Superboy #6
Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. Infinity
Uncanny X-Force #7
Uncanny X-Men #535
X-Men Legacy #247

I almost don't even care that you're about to start yelling at me

2011-04-12T20:14:00.000-04:00

Avengers Children's Crusade #5 ****1/2
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artists: Jim Cheung and Mark Morales
Cover Artists: Jim Cheung, Justin Ponsor, and Art Adams
Publisher: Marvel

This is without a doubt one of the best books coming out of Marvel right now. The only thing going against it is that it is bi-monthly, which means it won't be ending till November. Regardless, this issue, like all those that came before it, were fantastic. We get to see the return of not one, but two characters, though I care significantly more about one of them. Plus there's a slew of ridiculously beautiful battle scenes. With as much work and effort going into this, I just hope it makes a significant impact on the Marvel Universe as a whole.

Uncanny X-Men 534.1 ****
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artists: Carlos Pacheco and Frank D'Armata
Cover Artists: Carlos Pacheco
Publisher: Marvel

Starting with this issue, Uncanny is getting a new writer, Kieron Gillen. Yall probably know him as the co-writer to the last arc and as the writer of Generation Hope. I haven't been overly impressed with the series, so we'll just have to wait and see. This issue was actually quite good. I liked the way it played out on two fronts, but it all fit in to one story. I don't remember Magneto being this powerful before, which I'm sure is going to come into play with this next arc and in the near X-Men future. The art in this was pretty good, but I'm definitely more excited that Terry Dodson will be back in the ongoing series.

Chew #18 ****1/2
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

Totally awesome. I loved the way this issue panned out. From the beginning flashback, where the government totally screwed up, the issue was great. The team of ass-kicking, huge breasted, animal loving women was awesome. And then the secret weapon at the end was all kinds of fabulous. This team is consistently coming out with hilarious, interesting, inventive new material. If you're not reading this, shame on you. Also, congratulations are in order because the series, writer, and artist have been nominated for an Eisner.

Nonplayer #1 ***1/2
Writer: Nate Simpson
Artist: Nate Simpson
Cover Artist: Nate Simpson
Publisher: Image

At the behest of my comic book store, I picked up this book. The story had an interesting concept but I wouldn't say it was one of the best first issues I've ever read, this month even (Undying Love was fantastic.) So the story is basically about a girl who spends a great deal of her time in an online realm. Interesting. Above all though, the art in this book was remarkable. Breathtakingly beautiful artwork. In fact, you all should pick up this book just for the art.

My DC reviews can be read here: ComicAttack.net

Writer's Pull List 4-6-11

2011-04-07T10:41:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone! Welcome to the pull list, where we tell you what we will be reading.

Arnab's Note: Not much here. Yay for Children's Crusade!

Matt's Note: My life needs more Children's Crusade.

Arnab's List:
DC
Brightest Day #23
Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade #5
Uncanny X-Men #534.1
Image
Chew #18
Nonplayer #1

Matt's List:
DC
Brightest Day #23
Batman Beyond #4
Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade #5
Uncanny X-Men #534.1
Image
Chew #18
IDW
Dungeons and Dragons #5

I'm writing this to say goodbye, baby

2011-04-05T15:13:00.001-04:00

American Vampire #13 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

American Vampire enters its second year in brilliant fashion. The issue starts us off with a short review of what has happened (which makes this a great place for new readers to start,) but it's done in a way that sets up wonderfully for the future. Snyder weaves us into WWII, as Henry and Pearl find themselves on the cusp of two wars. Henry's role in this issue is a pivotal one, as it is his worries and fears that have led to this moment; his fear for Pearl's life, his feelings of sorrow over growing old, feeling left out of the action in the war, all of it has led up to this. Snyder writes a compelling story filled with moments of love, terror, and suspense. Rafael Albuquerque's art has never been better, in my opinion, or it could just be that the break from his art has brought a stronger sense of adoration for it. His ability to transition from a loving scene to dark and seedy one is near unparalleled. His washes and line-work are absolutely astounding in this issue and do a remarkable job of accentuating Snyder's words.

Age of X Universe #1 ***
Writers: Si Spurrier and Jim McCann
Artists: Koi Pham, Tom Palmer, and Paul Davidson
Cover Artist: Simone Bianchi
Publisher: Marvel

If you've been wondering what has been going on outside of Magneto's Fortress, this issue is for you. Outside the walls, we have a grim picture painted for us as heroes knew (Hulk, Invisible Woman, Iron Man, Captain America, etc) are now leading the anti-mutant hunt. Unfortunate circumstances, betrayal, and insane loyalties have driven these heroes to murdering innocent individuals. This issue did two things great. For one, we're starting to see the other side to the argument. Of course, secondly, they've shown us the other side of the argument and we can now safely presume the Avengers to be batshit crazy.

X-23 #8 ****
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artists: Ryan Stegman and Michael Babinski
Cover Artists: Kalman Andrasofszky
Publisher: Marvel

This is the X-book that no one is reading, but should be. Liu has done a remarkable job with Laura's character. The character development has been great and it really begins to show in this issue. I don't know about any of you, but I've been waiting for an X-23 vs Daken fight ever since Utopia and this issue was fantastic for that very reason. An X-23/Daken: Dark Wolverine crossover was bound to have action, but I didn't expect it to occur this fast. The art is fantastic throughout the book but especially wonderful during the fight scenes. As you would expect, the fight is bloody and vicious, pretty much everything you'd want. Here's hoping the fighting doesn't stop here.

Undying Love #1 ****
Writers: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Cover Artists: Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman
Publisher: Image

At the suggestion of our comic book guy, Andy, we decided we'd go ahead and check this book out. It follows the life of an ex-soldier, John Sargent, who is looking to find a cure for his vampire girlfriend. Now I know, you're sick of vampire books, but this one has a nice premise to it. The idea, is that by consuming the ashes of the heart of the vampire who turned you, you can become human once again. Unfortunately for John, the vampire who turned his girl is the oldest, most powerful vampire in all of China. Also unfortunate for John, a group of Chinese assassins want to kill Mei, that's the vampire girlfriend, because her presence may bring about chaos and upheaval in China. The creative team of Tomm Coker and Daniel Freedman have a very gritty, tough approach to the story with a matching graphic style of art that works well with the story.

The Walking Dead #83 *****
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artists: Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artists: Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Publisher: Image

Ever since Lori and the baby died, Rick has been struggling with his sanity. He's struggled making decisions, he's talked to an imaginary Lori on the phone, and what was left of his sanity is about to crumble away. The housing settlement that the survivors have settled down in is quickly being swarmed by zombies and unfortunately that has trapped our gang of survivors. The entire issue is filled with tense moments left and right, as Glen, Andrea and the others outside of the settlement struggle being unable to help. The art by Adlard and Rathburn, as we've come to expect, is fantastically gruesome, gritty, and captivating. The art assists in building up the suspense, the tension, the drama of it all. There's one spread that will haunt me for days to come, as I'm sure that will be the case for most readers. Kirkman has already proved that he has the ability to create a long lasting story, but this issue goes beyond that. This issue is proof that almost eight years later even when we think these characters are safe, that no one's really safe.

My DC reviews can be found at ComicAttack.net!

Pull List 3/30/2011

2011-03-30T20:58:00.000-04:00

Howdy yall! Welcome to another week of our pull list. Our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Well hot damn, kids. I've got a bunch of books this week, which has been the situation of late.

Matt's Note: Not so alone in the office, so comics not so much getting read yet. BUT Children's Crusade next week!!!!

Arnab's List:
DC
Detective Comics #875
Gotham City Sirens #21
Green Arrow #10
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #875
Teen Titans #93
Marvel
Age of X Universe #1
X-#23
Image
The Walking Dead #83
Veritgo
American Vampire #13

Matt's List:
DC
Gotham City Sirens #21
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #8
Wonder Woman #609
Marvel
Age of X: Universe #1
Avengers #11
Cyclops #1
Scarlet #5
Secret Avengers #11
Vertigo
American Vampire #13

Even if the rest of our soul is a butcher's shop

2011-03-29T14:59:00.003-04:00

New Mutants #23 ****1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Steve Kurth, Allen Martinez, and Brian Reber
Cover Artist: Leinil Yu and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

Mike Carey has been on a roll since Age of X started. This issue reveals quite a lot, but still leaves you questioning everything. Legacy and Gambit team up with Magneto in an attempt to figurer out what is going on in the world. Personally, I'm beginning to think that maybe this whole new world that they are living in, is possibly a creation of Legion's doing. Admittedly I'm not exactly sure if it is in his power set, but considering the boy can absorb powers like nobody's business, it is a possibility.

Uncanny X-Force #6 **** 1/2
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Esad Ribic
Cover Artists: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

Not knowing much about Fantomex, I wasn't sure how well a story focusing on him and his "World" would be. Now that it has arrived, I can say that it has been really good actually. The action scene in the beginning was all kinds of awesome. The story was really interesting, especially when "the world" is involved, which is a pretty awesome thing in general. The other members of the team almost take a backseat in this issue but there were a couple of cool moments. Betsy's imaginary conversation with her brother, the preview of Warren's breakdown, Deadpool being Deadpool. This creative team is putting out quality work every issue.

Uncanny X-Men #534 ****
Writers: Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillen
Artists: Greg Land and Jay Leisten
Cover Artists: Greg Land and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

For the last couple of months I've talked about how this series has struggled for a while, but with this last issue I don't have that thought anymore. It could be because the writer is changing, though I'm inclined to think not, but for whatever reason, these last two issues have been good. With this issue, both story lines come to an end of sorts. Emma is finally able to buy enough time to use her psychic powers and subdue Sebastian. Leaving him memoryless an, she moves on to the next chapter in her life. Back on Utopia, Scott rallies his sick X-Men and takes them to Sublime headquarters, where a mob of unruly rich folk are using drugs to receive powers. Unfortunately by doing so, they've left themselves susceptible to the same sickness wracking the X-Men.

X-Men #9 ***
Writer: Victor Gischler
Artists: Chris Bachalo and Tim Townsend
Cover Artist: Terry Dodson
Publisher: Marvel

I've been critical of the first two issues of this arc, but it finally feels like it is getting good. The story, which I feel has been a tad slow for most of the arc, gets better in this issue. It's funny, interesting, and the plot progresses quite a bit. I am also starting to get used to the art, which makes it bearable. Overall, the issue was actually good, especially in contrast to the first two issues, in my opinion.

My DC Reviews can be read here: Comicattack.net!

Writer's Pull List 03-23-10

2011-03-23T14:03:00.000-04:00

Howdy yall! Welcome to another week of our pull list. Our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Batman Streets of Gotham is ending, booo!

Matt's Note: I'm alone in the office next week. Which translates to comics getting read.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #4
Batman Streets of Gotham #21
Batman The Dark Knight #2
Green Lantern #64
Green Lantern Corps #58
Marvel
FF #1
New Mutants #23
Uncanny X-Force #6
Uncanny X-Men #534
X-Men #9

Matt's List:
DC
Batman Incorporated #4
Green Lantern #64
Green Lantern Corps #58
Justice League: Generation Lost #22
Marvel
FF #1
New Mutants #23
Uncanny X-Force #6
Uncanny X-Men #534
X-Men #9

And those feelings are terror and Nausea

2011-03-22T15:53:00.000-04:00

Avengers Children's Crusade Young Avengers #1 ****
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artist: Alan Davis
Cover Artist: Alan Davis
Publisher: Marvel

Allan Heinberg is absolutely brilliant. He writes these kids like no one else. And I don't mean that because no one has really written them. Quite the contrary. Heinberg has been able to create such a wonderful story for these guys. The flashback story was absolutely hilarious. It was fun, it was a great friendship story, and it throws an interesting twist into this whole story. The art, well that's really another story. For the main story we've been getting some stunning artwork and unfortunately, that was not the case. It's been a while since we've got the actual series and while this issue was nice, I want some more of the other stuff.

Generation Hope #5 ***1/2
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Jamie McKelvie
Cover Artist: David Lafuente
Publisher: Marvel

I'm still not sure whether I like Hope or if I find her to be annoying. On the one hand I can see where she is coming from. Being raised in near isolation for the most of her life, she's become a strong and independent woman. That's the problem, in my opinion; she's no longer independent. For one thing, she's a part of this large family known as the X-Men. But on a more important level, she's the leader of a team. A team that is filled with inexperienced teenagers. Time after time she puts herself and her own desires over the good of her team, and refuses to listen to any one else. This issue highlights this problems I have with Hope very well. I really think I'd like her as she is now, if she wasn't a team leader and more of a roaming spirit, much like I see Rogue as.

Uncanny X-Force #5.1 ****1/2
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artists: Simone Bianchi and Simone Peruzzi
Publisher: Marvel

Well hot damn kids. The art in this book is freaking fabulous that you should read it for that reason alone. Albuquerque, who is known for his art in American Vampire, pulls out all the stops in this beautiful issue. Things are heating up for the new X-Force team as they face off Lady Deathstrike and her minions. As the team rips through their enemies, their secret may be out. With the mission leading two crooks and Betsy to Utopia, Cyclops and Magneto become aware of an outside presence on the island. Remender is doing a standup job with this new X-Force team.

Uncanny X-Men Annual #3 **
Writer: James Asmus
Artist: Nicholas Bradshaw
Cover Artist: Black Frog
Publisher: Marvel

There's not much for me to actually say here. The art in this book was all sorts of bad. The story was decent enough. Scott, Hope, Dr. Nemesis, and Namor have all been transported to another dimension and might have no way of getting back. I'm not altogether sure what purpose this annual is going to or is meant to serve. I don't know if this is some type of editorial mandate or something, but I find it weird that Hope is obnoxious as she is in everything she appears in.

X-Factor #217 ****
Writer: Peter David
Artists: Emanuela Lupacchino and Guillermo Ortego
Cover Artists: David Yardin and Sonia Oback
Publisher: Marvel

This book is absolutely great. Peter David is one of Marvel's most consistently excellent writer. His story telling is fluid, humorous, intricate without being unnecessary. What's great about him, is that when something happens out of the blue, you know that eventually it will play a role. A couple issues back a rogue villainess, Ballistique, made an appearance and now she's back. Partnered with some friends of hers, she's is looking to assassinate the mayor. Luckily for him, the mayor that is, he's got X-Factor on his side. Meanwhile, there were two parts I specifically want to bring attention to. Monet and Strong Guy in the streets was both humorous while socially important. The other, was the interaction between Shatterstar and Rictor regarding Shatterstar's relationship with Longshot. I think it's great that Peter David is touching upon the long forgotten plot thread of Longshot being Shatterstar's father.

Artifacts #6 ***
Writer: Ron Marz
Artists: Whilce Portacio, Joe Weems, and Mukesh Singh
Cover Artists: Phil Noto and John Tyler Christopher
Publisher: Top Cow

We are now six issues in and things are progressing steadily. With Cyberforce joining in the fight last issue, things weren't looking so good for the forces of evil. There are two distinctive things I have to say about this issue. One, the story is quite good. The way everything plays out, the pacing of the issue, it all plays out very well. Two, the art here works as a detriment for me, which is not to say that it is bad, just problematic. It has a very sketchy, rough edge to it that I actually like. However, in this situation where I'm still working out who's who, the sketchy look keeps me guessing more often than I want. So much so, that by the end of this issue my take on what happened is, everyone but the Witchblade is now dead. We'll see what turns out to be the truth.

Be sure to read my DC reviews at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 11-17-10

2011-03-16T16:08:00.000-04:00

Well hello readers. This is the pull list. It is where we tell you what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's note: It's not really Children's Crusade, but I'll take what I can get.
Matt's Note: I haven't even read last week's yet!

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #708
Brightest Day #22
Red Robin #21
T.H.U.N.D.E.R. Agents #5
Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade Young Avengers #1
Generation Hope #5
Uncanny X-Force #5.1
Uncanny X-Men Annual #3
X-Factor #217
TopCow
Artifacts #6

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #708
Brightest Day #22
Red Robin #21
Superman #709
Young Justice #2
Marvel
Avengers Children's Crusade Young Avengers #1
Generation Hope #5
Iceman and Angel #1
Invincible Iron Man #502
Ruse #1
Uncanny X-Force #5.1
Uncanny X-Men Annual #3
X-Factor #217

It means I've joined the hunt myself

2011-03-15T14:54:00.000-04:00

Walking Dead #82 ****
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artist: Charlie Adlard
Publisher: Image

The zombies have invaded Alexandria and no one is safe. What you need to know about this series is that, it's not really a book you want to start in the middle. While there are points in the series that would be good jumping on points, but I wouldn't recommend it. The success of the book rests on the development of the characters over time. This issue has a coupe of those moments. Like, Glen fearing the outcome of this attack, Andrea standing strong, Rick's line at the very end. Survival has always been key for these guys and right now they're in for the largest onslaught of zombies since the very beginning, only this time they have experience on their hands. As a side not, I just thought it was worth mentioning that it was great to have badass Michonne back.

X-23 #7 ****
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artist: Sana Takeda
Cover Artist(s): Kalman Andrasofszky
Publisher: Marvel

If like me, you have been waiting for a great Gambit book, then I've got to ask you, why aren't you reading this book? While this book is called X-23, for the most part it has been the adventures of X-23 and Gambit, though that might change with the next arc. The duo are on their way to Madripoor, however to get get there they need to help out an old friend of Gambit's. They handily rip through the gang of pirates, but unfortunately are unable to save the informant they were sent to rescue. This issue was extremely well done. This is pretty much a one shot story, meant as a filler before the X-23 vs. Daken showdown. However, it's less of a filler and more like an excellent one issue story. Liu has a fantastic grasp of X-23's character, portraying her as she has always been portrayed, but with more and more compassion as the time goes. As a great addition, this issue is absolutely beautiful. The art from the cover to the very last page was fantastically executed.

X-Men Legacy #246 ****1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Clay Maan and Jay Leisten
Cover Artists: Leinil Yu and Marte Gracia
Publisher: Marvel

Well hot damn kids. Mike Carey is on a mega-roll here with this brilliant story. This chapter was at its roots a chase story, with Legacy (Rogue) being the one chased. But really, this was so much more than just a simple chase story. After a run-in with a sedated/comatose Xavier Legacy is filled with tidbits of information about a world she has no recollection of. Now, on the run from her own kind, Legacy uses her intelligence to navigate around the ferocious New Mutants, with the aid of some acquired powers and old friends. Meanwhile, Carey is also bringing in some events that seem like a natural fit, such as Gambit saving Leacy (sans emotional baggage) or Jimmy (Wolverine) teaming up with Basilisk (Cyclops.) This chapter is exciting, fast paced, and filled with bits of information. Mann, as I mentioned last time, has done some of his best work I've ever seen by him and it works perfectly in combination with Carey's story.

Be sure to check out my DC reviews here: Comicattack.net!

Writer's Pull List 03-09-11

2011-03-10T14:29:00.000-05:00

Hey all! So another week, another list. The pull list is our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Batman Inc #3? Finally. I am most excited for the Walking Dead #82 and X-Men Legacy #246.

Matt's Note: My life is empty without Young Avengers.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #21
Batman Incorporated #3
Birds of Prey #10
Superboy #5
Image
Walking Dead #82
Marvel
X-23 #7
X-Men Legacy #246

Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #21
Batman Incorporated #3
Birds of Prey #10
Superboy #5
Justice League Generation Lost #21
Wonder Woman #608
Marvel
Sigil #1
X-Men Legacy #246

Are you suggesting I mark Rictor by urinating on him?

2011-03-08T14:29:00.001-05:00

Chew #17 ****
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

It's been months since we've had a taste of Chew, but the minute you start reading it is as if no time has passed at all. It is truly a testament to the creative staff, when a series is as creative as this one and has remained consistently great. The creepy lights in the sky remain at the back of our minds in this issue. But we also get some great insight into the characters, specifically Tony and his relationship with his daughter. There are so many little great bits and pieces, humorous moments, and interesting revelations that the pacing of the issue never falters. The art plays just as important a role in the story and by that I mean, is absolutely great. At this point, if you're not reading this book, you're just wrong in so many ways.

X-Factor #216 ****
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Emanuela Lupacchino and Guillermo Ortega
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Sonia Oback
Publisher: Marvel

I've said it before and I will say it again, this is one of the best X-books out there (definitely in my top 3 of a whole bunch of them.) This issue starts off a new arc, while bringing in a story line previously started. As residents of New York it was only a matter of time before Spiderman and Jameson made an appearance. Turns out, Madrox had a favor he owed Jameson and Spidey was just being nosey. Meanwhile, Monet and Shatterstar have one of the funniest conversations I've read all year. This book is just consistently excellent. With such an array of castmembers, from humans to mutants, David has a great crew to work with. Unlike with some other series', when he brings in guest stars such as the Fantastic Four, Thor, and now Spidey it doesn't feel stranger. Rather, they are integrated into the story with a seamless ease. The art has been getting better as well, in my opinion, with Lupacchino joining the team. Oh and Layla Miller giving Rahne the verbal smack down was so satisfying.

Be sure to check out my DC reviews at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 03-02-2011

2011-03-02T13:50:00.000-05:00

Here is our weekly look at what comics we'll be reading this week. We're always open to suggestions! Unless those suggestions involve the word Wolverine.

Matt's Note: I'm loving Age of X. I have no idea what's really happening, but I'm loving it.

Arnab's Note: Chew! Finally. Geez.

Matt's List
Marvel
X-Factor #216
DC
Batman Beyond #3
Brightest Day #21
Green Lantern #63
Image
Chew #17

Arnab's ListDC
Batman Streets of Gotham #20
Brightest Day #21
Green Lantern #63
Marvel
X-Factor #216
Image
Chew #17

...but the best problems are only ever solved with violence

2011-03-01T21:42:00.000-05:00

American Vampire #12 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Danijel Zezelj
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

There comes a time in every writer's run where they either begin to falter or they maintain their level of excellence to such a consistent degree, there's little new to say from issue to issue. As far as I'm concerned, Snyder has yet to make any mistakes in this series. This issue is a one-shot that reveals quite a bit about Skinner Sweet's past, taking place between the birth of vampire-Sweet and the birth of vampire-Pearl. Skinner takes a bit of a break, from whatever it is he does, and takes in some culture, also known as Buffalo Bill Cody's Wild West Show. Unfortunately for Buffalo Bill his facts aren't so factual, naturally Skinner sets him straight. The scene between Skinner and his past love was great, it showed a slightly different side to Skinner. I think the best part of Snyder's writing, is his ability to make the reader care and even root for Snyder, regardless of sadistic tendencies. For those of you readers who think 11 issues is too much to catch up on, this 12th issue is a great starting point.

New Mutants #22 ****1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Steve Kurth and Allen Martinez
Cover Artist: Clay Mann
Publisher: Marvel

Read the review for X-Men: Legacy first. Everything I said there applies here, except of course for the artist's name, because he's different in this issue. This issue's main focus is on Legacy/Reaper (Rogue,) while it also touches on the unravelling of the mystery behind this universe as well as touching upon further development of certain characters. I love Legacy's role in this book. I think logically it makes perfect sense and at the same time I love the personality of this new Rogue. The actual New Mutants didn't play much of a part in this issue, although Guthrie has been playing a fairly major role, but with that last panel we'll be sure to see them. Carey is doing such a fantastic job with this story, maintaining one fluid story as opposed to jumping around, that there isn't a necessity for readjusting when moving between series'.

Uncanny X-Men #533 ***
Writers: Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillen
Artists: Greg Land and Jay Leisten
Cover Artists: Greg Land and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

This issue was leagues better than the last couple. When the arc started there were three running story lines, the sickness, the fakes, and Shaw. As the arc comes to an end, the stories are coming together. In one part of the world Shaw rips through Kitty, Emma, and Fantomex. In another part of the world, also known as Utopia/San Francisco, the trust fund baby X-Men are being held in Utopia. Sublime Corps unveils their brilliant product, a fast acting, mutant power delivering drink. The X-Men, crash the party, unfortunately the crowd receives their own special bottles of mutant power. Disgusted by this, Scott calls for all able mutants to suit up and prepare for battle.
I think everyone would admit that this title has been struggle for quite some time, in both the writing and the art. The story, with as big a cast as it has, has been jumpy and unfocused. While the art, has similar issues. There's been a receptiveness about the work and the women often all look just like one another. That being said, this issue had a lot of what was missing from the arc, focus specifically, as well as a touch of humor. While it certainly wasn't the best issue this week, it at least gives hope that the arc won't end on a terrible note.

X-23 #6 ***1/2
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artist: Will Conrad, David Lopez, and Alvaro Lopez
Cover Artist(s): Kalman Andrasofszky
Publisher: Marvel

The first arc ends here and while the pacing slows down a tad, for the most part this issue was quite good. In the last issue, Mr. Sinister literally rips his way out of Ms. Sinister. The newly released Sinister easily defeats both Laura and Gambit, only to have Ms. Sinister retake control of her body. It turns out she'd been struggled to control the Sinister essence within her and lured Laura in the hopes of stealing her body. It's been a long while since Sinister was "murdered" (that guy really never does die) and it's been almost about as long since Ms. Sinister was revealed to be roaming the streets with her male counterpart sharing her body. The arc ends in a nice way, the loose ends get tied while the possibility of future threats remains in the shadows.

X-Men #8 ***
Writer: Victor Gischler
Artists: Chris Bachalo and Tim Townsend
Cover Artist: Terry Dodson
Publisher: Marvel

I have near the same problems with this issue as I did the previous. I am not a fan of the art. I think that Bachalo does some things well, such as the monstrous creatures from the abyss. However, I think for the most part, unless he's doing solo shots of individuals, his art gets too complicated and everything blends with one another. For example, Logan's battle with the monster below was almost unreadable; you couldn't tell who was winning the fight until it had ended. The writing, I found to be better than the last. There was definite plot progression, however some of the characters feel almost unnecessary. It was a decent issue overall, but in my opinion still nowhere near as good as the last arc.

X-Men: Legacy #245 ****1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artists: Clay Maan and Jay Leisten
Cover Artists: Leinil Yu and Clay Maan
Publisher: Marvel

Oh what a wonderful surprise Age of X has been. The fight scenes in this issue were absolutely fantastic; it's pretty much what you would expect from mutants who have no issue killing in order to stay alive. The Force Warriors, a group of powerful telekinetics who have created a telekinetic force field around Fortress X, is a brilliant idea. I am thoroughly enjoyed the new roles and looks some of these characters have (Scott Summers especially.) Carey has written things so well, that everything just has a fluid motion to it, including the character changes. The art is really nice in this issue, much stronger than the previous art we've seen by Mann. He is able to portray this new world of characters in a unique way, while keeping them similar enough for the reader to know who the character is without an explanation or a name. This is an absolute fantastic first chapter to this series.

Writer's Pull List 02-23-10

2011-02-24T10:58:00.001-05:00

Hey folks! We're running a couple hours late today. For those of you who are new here, this is our Pull List. It is our way to let you know what books we read and what we will be reviewing.

Arnab's Note: Hmm. Not much to say this week. There are a bunch of books that I'm excited for this week.

Matt's Note: I have a blog post started, I promise I'll actually finish it some day. Fuck my busy schedule.

Arnab's List:
DC
Detective Comics #874
Gotham City Sirens #20
Green Arrow #9
Teen Titans #92
Marvel
New Mutants #22
Uncanny X-Men #533
X-23 #6
X-Men #8
X-Men Legacy #245
Vertigo
American Vampire #12

Matt's List:
DC
Gotham City Sirens #20
Justice League: Generation Lost #20
Marvel
New Mutants #22
Uncanny X-Men #533
X-Men #8
X-Men Legacy #245
Invincible Iron Man #501
Secret Avengers #10
Vertigo
American Vampire #12

And I will be a dynamo to power the change

2011-02-22T10:00:00.004-05:00

Generation Hope #4 ****
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salva Espin and Scott Koblish
Cover Artist: Olivier Coipel
Publisher: Marvel

This was probably my favorite issue of the series (much like another issue I'm reviewing.) After their prolonged visit to Japan, and all the trouble that happened there, the new mutants finally make their way to Utopia. In the form of a test, we are finally given a definitive description of Earth's newest mutant's powers. Which, now that they've been laid out to us, their power sets look even more like previous mutants, that is, except for Kenji. Kenji, in his natural state, still feels a bit off, so it will be interesting how he will be able to integrate into life on Utopia. Hope, now back from her journeys, is beginning to settle in and has even begun a budding romance, which is great for the development of her character. Although there was very little action, I thought this issue feels like the actual beginning of this series, even though it's actually the end of the first arc. Hope and the lights are now back with the rest of the Mutants, and they're all in as natural a state as they can be, the rest has yet to come.

S.H.I.E.L.D. #6 *****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Dustin Weaver
Cover Artist: Gerald Parel and Dustin Weaver
Publisher: Marvel

The first chapter to this grand story comes to an end in spectacular fashion. In what is probably my favorite issue of the series so far, the story and art really step it up a couple of notches. The main focus of this issue is a war of epic proportions between two factions of the Brotherhood. In a reflection of many periods in history, the war is between the traditionalists who have accepted their fate and the revolutionaries who believe anything is possible. Stark and Richards, the elders, revive Nikola Tesla, who appeared a while ago, figure out how to get back home. Leonid plays a fairly major role in this issue as he continues to struggle with both sides of the war. One of my favorite scenes in the series has to be when he finall puts his power to use. This is definitely one of Marvel's best books out right now and it's a shame that it will be going on hiatus for the foreseeable future. For those of you haven't been reading this, be sure to pick it up in its collected format.

Uncanny X-Force #5 ****
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Esad Ribic
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

Speaking of Marvel's best books. Since this series started, I feel it has been in the shadow of its predecessor. With the first arc completed and the second arc on it's way, I can say that that is no longer the case. As an introduction issue, there was a reliance on backstory and dialogue, which wasn't a bad thing. Fantomex is a badass character, who has a very rich history which will most likely be utilized in this next arc. I think it's very telling that he's the loose cannon in a team that also includes Deadpool and Logan. Deadpool has a great moment in this book, when it is revealed that he has not been cashing any of Warren's checks, disproving Logan's theories about him. This series has great art and looks like it will be another great arc.

Be sure to check out my DC reviews at Comicattack.net!

Writer's Pull List 02-16-11

2011-02-16T17:33:00.000-05:00

Hello world. For those of you that are new this here is our pull list post. Basically it is a list of all the books Matt and I(Arnab) will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: I don't really have much to say this week. Go Batman!

Matt's Note: I'm starting to notice the lack of Children's Crusade in my life.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #707
Brightest Day #20
Green Lantern #62
Green Lantern Corps #57
Marvel
Generation Hope #4
S.H.I.E.L.D. #6
Uncanny X-Force #5

Matt's List:
DC
Batman #707
Brightest Day #20
Green Lantern #62
Green Lantern Corps #57
Wonder Woman #607
Young Justice #1
Marvel
Generation Hope #4
S.H.I.E.L.D. #6
Uncanny X-Force #5

Because I'm Layla Miller. And I don't know stuff.

2011-02-15T14:44:00.002-05:00

The Walking Dead #81 ****1/2
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artist: Charlie Adlard
Publisher: Image

The consistently impressive aspect of this book is its ability to get you to care about these characters. We've been with a handful of these characters for years now and the longer they stay alive the more we want them to stay alive. Glen and Andrea, two of my favorites from the beginning, find themselves trapped outside of the camp and or the most part, that might make them the safest of the bunch. On the inside the gate is failing and trouble is one its way. I'm starting to worry about Carl, who's stuck in a house with the remnants of a shattered family, and that could prove to be problematic. The best part of this arc is that people are never more vulnerable than when they feel safe. In all of the camps the survivors had settled in before this arc, the survivors had been on edge and never quite felt safe. However for the most part, the inhabitants of Alexandria (the current base of operations) actually felt safe. Their naive sense of the world has made them ripe for the picking.

X-Factor #215 ****1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Valentine De Landro and Pat Davidson
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Sonia Oback
Publisher: Marvel

Ever since I started reading this I've been pleasantly surprised with how consistently well written this book is. Peter David has a a great feel of these characters and even though the majority of these issues focus on a handful of characters, as opposed to the whole team, he handles it very well. This issue is no exception. Madrox and Layla are two of my favorite characters in this book, they have been since Messiah Complex (my other two favorites being Rictor and Shatterstar.) This issue perfectly displays both of these characters to their fullest potential. Madrox is finally able to use his powers in a way that isn't just extra muscle. And Layla's role becomes more than just the background character who pops up to save the day. The two are finally starting to act around each other the way I've been waiting for.

My DC reviews can be read right here!

Gashapon Reviews: February 3, 2011

2011-02-09T16:04:00.000-05:00

"Start small," Arnab told me, so that's what I'm going to attempt to do with my review column. I do so love blogging and being a critic, but I haven't had time. Or at least I tell myself I haven't had time so that I don't feel like such a lout. But it has been over six months since my last review, and that's just blatantly unacceptable. So we are starting with a light week and hopefully riding this momentum into a regular habit.

DC

Brightest Day #19 **1/2

One Christmas when I was younger I got the Macy's Toy Catalog, and in there was this picture of Aquaman with a beard and a hook for a hand, and I thought "Wow, that's so cool!" Here we are a decade later and I think "I really do not enjoy Brightest Day." (No, that anecdote doesn't really matter, but I so seldom have anecdotes). It's possible that I'm still getting over the end of Brightest Day #18, which I distinctly did not like, but that's mainly because the Hawks were the characters I really liked in this story. I appreciate that things are ramping up as we approach issue #26, and I hope this momentum continues as we figure out what the hell is up with the White Lantern (who, by the way, is a dick).

Superboy #4 **

Francis Manapul come save me! This art isn't ugly, but after getting used to the Manapul version of Connor it's so hard to read this. I haven't been checking, but is the critical consensus as middle of the road on this title in general as I feel it should be? I think this time-travel storyline could be really interesting and complex but the dialogue is missing some punch. One of the reasons I always disliked Superman is that he wanted so much to be human. I know that was his charm, but he just came off as so white-bread, and I feel like Connor is falling into that trap (mind you I never read Superboy before this series, so perhaps it's a case of him not living up to my imagined expectations).

How creepy is it to say I find him attractive like this?

Batman Beyond #2 ***

Not exactly a deep story, but an enjoyable read. Watching Terry interact with the new Justice League is fun, although I can't for the life of me see why anyone would want to join them; they're kind of assholes. I do like old crotchety Bruce, though.

Gothan City Sirens #19 ***1/2

A good, solid read. I've always loved Selina Kyle, and I really appreciate this current portrayal of her as being morally grey. She wants to do the right thing, but is less obsessed with doing things by the books, which is why she's such a perfect match for Bruce. The drama about how her knowing Bruce's identity puts everyone in danger is also a very creative take on her morality (do you think anyone is worried Clark or Diana is going to let the, uhm, cat out of the bag?). In the end I think, and have always thought, that Talia was batshit crazy, but she raises interesting points. And the turn at the end with Harley follows the logic, making this for a very solid story.

Marvel

Invincible Iron Man #500.1 ***

It's a milestone, and I'm a sucker for milestones. The story was interesting, touching on Tony's recent memory wipe and reboot and pointing to a possible future, but I think this was a fairly stand-alone issue. And I don't mind that much in these milestones. I don't know when I turned into an Invincible Iron Man fan, but it's a strange thing. But this new Tony isn't a hateful drunk, and his adventures trying to fix the world have a bit of quip to them which I really enjoy.

Writer's Pull List 2/9/11

2011-02-09T10:46:00.000-05:00

How's it going folks? Another week, another batch of comics. Last week was a tad light, but this week we're back to having a bunch of books to read and review.

Arnab's Note: Not surprisingly I've got a large amount of DC books in comparison to the rest of the publishers.

Matt's Note: Who caught the Thor and Captain America spots during the Super Bowl?

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #20
Birds of Prey #9
Flash #9
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #7
Red Robin #20
Thunder Agents #4
Image
The Walking Dead #81
Marvel
X-Factor #215

Matt's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #20
Birds of Prey #9
Flash #9
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #7
Justice League Generation Lost #19
Red Robin #20
Superman #708
Marvel
X-Factor #215

Baby, I'm taking this funeral party to Rumekistan!

2011-02-08T15:47:00.002-05:00

Well, since I missed last week and since I only had one for this week I just figured I would combine the two, so here it is.

Age of X: Alpha #1 ****
Writer: Mike Carey
Artist: Mirco Pierfedrici, Gabriel Hernandez Walta, Carlo Barberi, and Paco Diaz
Cover Artist: Chris Bachalo and Olivier Coipel
Publisher: Marvel

For weeks now the Age of X has been looming in the distant the future, that future is here. From the very beginning of this issue, Mike Carey paints us a very grim picture of a universe without the X-Men. Instead of spending issue after issue setting up the event, this issue starts of in the middle of a war between humans and mutants. Split into four stories, the issue gives us a look into the past while also moving the story forward. The first story, focusing on Scott Summers' past, was arguably the best part of the issue. Having been forced to be the ultimate mutant executioner, Scott has grown to become nothing like the leader we know him to be. The second and third story did not make as big an impact, though I'm sure they will play a bigger role in the future. The final story sets up the basis for the resistance's inception as well as Magneto's role in this war. Overall, I thought that this was a fantastic beginning. There was just enough back story, action, and progress to keep things interesting.

American Vampire #11 ****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Mateus Santolouco
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

There is really only so many ways for me to express just how great this series is. This last arc focused solely on Pearl, Henrie, and Maddie, the crazy. I think the best part of this arc was witnessing the Pearl and Henrie's relationship. It touched on the idea of turning or not turning Henrie into a vampire, which is something you would expect in a vampire book, but Snyder does is in excellent fashion. In my opinion, I think Pearl and Henrie should just bite the bullet, or the throat in this case, and turn Henrie. The next arc takes us back in time to WWII and I can't wait.

Artifacts #5 ***1/2
Writer: Ron Marz
Artist: Whilce Portacio
Cover Artist: John Tyler Christopher
Publisher: Top Cow
We are now five issues in and the action is just now starting to heat up. For the first four issues, we've seen both sides of good and evil recruit soldiers to the cause. Honestly, in retrospect I'm surprised that they would have four issues dedicated to that. Everywhere I look online reviewers are praising the brilliance of this event and I think that the hype is over inflated. Is it good stuff, yes. And as a reader who is not as knowledgeable with the Top Cow Universe as the DC or Marvel Universe's, I am more than glad they had the issues setting everything up. However, we're almost at the midway point and almost nothing of note as happened. In this issue Cyberforce and the Hunterkillers were brought in, which is surprising because I had thought they wouldn't be making an appearance. Coerced by the villainess Aphrodite, the team squares off against the heroes, in the next issue. Overall I think it's really good stuff, great for new readers, but overall not as brilliant as most reviewers are claiming.

Deadpool & Cable #26 ****1/2
Writer: Ron Marz
Artist: Duane Swierczynski
Cover Artist: Dave Wilkins
Publisher: Marvel

The small country of Rumekistan has been absent for far too long or at least it has for those of us who know what that place is. This issue was a nice and welcome surprise, considering Cable as been dead more months now. Overall the story was fun, interesting, and truly a nice homage to the series Cable & Deadpool. The art was nice as well, as is to be expected from a Deadpool book. Swierczynski did a great job of capturing Deadpool's personality and voice. Deadpool's relationship with Cable as been rocky, to say the least, so it was nice to see an issue dedicated to their relationship.

X-23 #5 ****
Writer: Marjorie Liu
Artist: Will Conrad and Marco Checchetto
Cover Artist(s): Leinil Francis Yu and Jason Keith
Publisher: Marvel

A couple weeks ago my comic book guy recommended this series because of our love for Gambit. Yes, that's right, Gambit is a big part of this series. Laura and Gambit have been brought to a small town run by, Ms. Sinestro. This series is actually quite good. The story is interesting and fun. The direction is pretty good too, as Ms. Sinestro and Sinestro himself haven't been around for a while. The only thing about this series though, is that the art has been inconsistent. Either way, this is a must read for any fans of X-23 and Gambit.

X-Men #7 ***
Writer: Victor Gischler
Artist: Chris Bacalo
Cover Artist: Terry Dodson
Publisher: Marvel

This is just me, but why take a completely successful creative team, in both writing and art, and get rid of them for the next arc. I not only don't understand Marvel's decision in doing so, but completely disagree with the decision. Overdone stories of Vampires aside, I thought that first arc was great stuff. And now we have this. The writing, is strange to say the least. The writer seems to strange outlook on the characters of the team, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but only time will tell. The art, well I pretty much hated it. I rarely say things like that, but it was just a huge distraction. The proportions were strange, the overall look weird, and if it's at all possible I preferred when the characters were smaller and with fewer details.

Uncanny X-Force # 4 *****
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Jerome Opena
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

In contrast, this issue is absolutely fantastic. It's hard being the follow up act to a wildly popular series, but this series is doing a great job. The first arc ends in epic fashion as the team prevents Apocalypse's ship from leaving, sends the Horsemen away, and prevent Apocalypse from rising up once more. With every issue the writers are showing us why each of these characters are an important addition to the team. Unlike the writer for X-Men, Remender seems to have a knowledgeable grasp of these characters. From Deadpool feeding Angel is own flesh, to Warren's internal struggle, to Fantomex's disregard for trivial things, like emotions, these are characters as you would expect to see them. The art has been superb as well in this entire arc.

Uncanny X-Men #532 ***
Writer: Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillen
Artist(s): Greg Land and Jay Leisten
Cover Artist: Greg Land and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

It is getting closer and closer to the time when Matt Fraction leaves this series and I for one will miss him. Granted I will admit that the book has been suffering in recent months. On Utopia the mutants are getting sicker and sicker and it is likely that if they don't figure out a way to fix it soon, someone will die. Meanwhile in San Francisco the fake X-Men, rich kids with false powers, are brought in for questioning. This isn't really a bad arc, for the most part. I'm not particularly sure how the Emma story line is going to be tied into the main story, but I do like that the rest of the book is now tying in to each other.

As usual, my DC reviews can be read here: http://comicattack.net/2011/02/coir20211/

Writer's Pull List 02-02-11

2011-02-03T16:25:00.000-05:00

Hello readers. This is our pull list, which is everything that we will be reading this week.

Arnab's Note: We're a tad late this week, my bad. Yay for Deadpool and Cable!
Matt's Note: Let's see if we can't get a bit of conformity here.

Arnab's list:
DC
Brightest Day #19
Gotham City Sirens #19
Superboy #4
Time Masters Vanishing Point #6
Marvel
Deadpool and Cable #26

Matt's list:
DC
Batman Beyond #2
Brightest Day #19
Gotham City Sirens #19
Superboy #4
Marvel
Invincible Iron Man #500.1

Writer's Pull List: 01-26-11

2011-01-26T11:14:00.001-05:00

Here it is folks, what we're reading this week. We're always open to recommendations!

Matt's Note: Yay Age of X! In unexpected news, I'm really digging Generation Lost more than Brightest Day.
Arnab's Note: I'm all kinds of excited for Age of X as well. Actually, it looks like a good load of books in general.

Matt's List
American Vampire #11
Justice League Generation Lost #18
Wonder Woman #606
Age of X Alpha #1
Avengers #9
New Mutants #21
Secret Avengers #9
Uncanny X-Force #4
Uncanny X-Men #532
X-Men #7
Chew #17 (Is this even coming out? My comic store's emails are hard to read)

Arnab's List
DC
Detective Comics #873
Green Arrow #8
Teen TItans #91
Marvel
Age of X Alpha #1
Uncanny X-Force #4
Uncanny X-Men #532
X-Men #7
Vertigo
American Vampire #11
Top Cow
Artifacts #5

Maybe I've evolved into just a head…like on "Futurama".

2011-01-25T10:00:00.001-05:00

X-Factor ***1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Valentine De Landro and Pat Davidson
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Sonia Oback
Publisher: Marvel

If it was X-Factor you wanted, you didn't really get much of that this issue. However, what you did get was a pretty great issue focused on Darwin, the Immortal (or at least that's what his name should be.) After leaving team X-Factor, Darwin goes wandering in the desert trying to find himself. Instead he finds the set of an old western were an aged Rahne's son warns him of an impending Apocalypse. This issue was really good for a couple of reasons. The first being, that David was able to make a book solely about Darwin interesting. And I know that sounds like a strange comment, but let's be honest, Darwin has been pretty boring for a while. However, after his battle with Hela he's proved to be one of the most powerful mutants alive.

X-Men Legacy ***
Writer: Mike Carey
Artist: Paul Davidson
Cover Artist: Leinil Francis Yu
Publisher: Marvel

This issue was clearly a semi-breather issue before the coming of the Age of X, the X-Men's next major event (though it's only going to interrupt New Mutants and X-Men Legacy, the consequences will surely be felt across the X-verse.) That being said, the story in this issue was decent. It was clearly another character piece, as the story follows Blindfold's journey uncovering the meaning behind her visions. With some guest appearances, such as Hellion (who we learn has not left the island) and Scott, this issue was mainly focused on Blindfold and Rogue. All in all the writing was decent. However, the art was lacking on many occasions. Without their costumes, the characters were all but unrecognizable.

My DC reviews can be read here: Comicattack.net!

Writer's Pull List 01-19-11

2011-01-19T19:27:00.000-05:00

Welcome everyone, to this week's pull list. Our opportunity to let you know what the two of us will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: If you noticed, I had no non-DC books last week. I'm back with reviews this week though.
Matt's Note: Italics aren't priorities, so it depends on my mood and bank account.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #706
Batman: Streets of Gotham #19
Brightest Day #18
Green Lantern Corps #56
Marvel
X-Factor #214
X-Men Legacy #244

Matt's List:
Batman #706
Brightest Day #18
Green Lantern Corps #56
Young Justice #0
Invincible Iron Man #500
Scarlet #4
X-Factor #214
X-Men Legacy #244
Buffy the Vampire Slayer #40

Writer's Pull List 01-12-11

2011-01-12T11:45:00.000-05:00

Well folks, here's our first pull list of the year. Basically, it is our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing this week.

Arnab's Note: Interestingly, I only have DC books this week.
Matt's Note: A nice quite week.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #19
Birds of Prey #8
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #6
Red Robin #19
Thunder Agents #3

Matt's List:
Batman and Robin #19
Birds of Prey #8
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #6
Red Robin #19
Justice League: Generation Lost #17

I'm back, Billy. And I'm here to protect you

2011-01-11T14:18:00.001-05:00

Avengers: Children's Crusade #4 ****1/2
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artist(s): Jim Cheung and Mark Morales
Cover Artist(s): Jim Cheung, Justin Ponsor, and Art Adams
Publisher: Marvel

Another absolutely fantastic issue by this great creative team. In the last issue Wiccan found himself in the deadly grasp of the powerful Doom. After a brief battle, Doom overpowers Wiccan and relieves him of his powers. Meanwhile, the rest of the Young Avengers and team Maximoff rush to the aide of the young Warlock. Before they reach Doom's kingdom, the Avengers arrive just in time to screw things up. Wanda rescues Wiccan from his prison and the two of them leave the castle just in time to witness a war going on. I thought that this issue was just great and the reveal at the end was all kinds of exciting. The interaction between Wiccan and his surroundings was done well. In fact, I think Heinberg is doing a great job capturing the personalities of all the characters. The art in the issue is spectacular, to say the least. And other than the minor glitches in Marvel continuity I think this series has been fantastic.

Generation Hope #3 ***
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salva Espin and Scott Koblish
Cover Artist: Olivier Coipel
Publisher: Marvel

The final new mutant is using Japan as a playground and the messiah is unconscious. But not for long. While it's common knowledge by now that Hope is connected to the Phoenix, this was the first time we've seen any form of direct contact between the Phoenix and Hope. Phoenix tells Hope that she must save its children. Hope rallies her companions and is able to manipulate Kenji's powers against him, which allows her to get close nough to do her thing. admittedly I had a problem getting attached to this story the five lights. That being said, however, I thought this issue was a strong one. The plot is enjoyable but not everything is completely laid out for the reader. The art isn't great and there were certain portions that were better than the rest.

X-Factor #213 ***1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Valentine De Landro and Pat Davidson
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Sonia Oback
Publisher: Marvel

In the aftermath after their battle in hell, Darwin decides to separate from the team for an unknown period of time. Unfortunately for him, the powers he developed to take on hela have yet to leave his body. Back at home, Rictor and Shatterstar finally get some time to talk to one another and discuss Rahne. After a bit of compassion from Shatterstar, the team welcomes back an old member. From the beginning of this arc I knew the stories would intertwine somewhere and I think that the way the creative team accomplished this was well done. I never really grew attached to Darwin, who is a little to strange and too powerful for my taste, so his leaving doesn't affect me all that much. After her little stint, I'm not a fan of Rahne either, but it will be interesting to see how she is written into the story.

Walking Dead #80 *****
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Publisher: Image

Sometimes when a book is consistently good, you start to forget just how good it is, until BAM an issue like this one arrives to remind you just how awesome it is. For a couple months now, Rick and the gang have made a home in Alexandria, but all that is going to change. Hundreds of zombies have surrounded the encampment leaving the townsfolk scared. Sound familiar? Well sure, a zombie attack sounds familiar. However, what has always been this series' driving point is the characters. Whether it's Rick leading the town through the danger, Andrea trapped in the lookout house, or Abraham's cold personality, the things that make this issue great is rooted in the way the living react. There's only so many ways you can make a zombie attack different, but as the characters grow and evolve their reactions change as well and it is this continued growth that keeps this series what it is.

As usual, my DC reviews can be read at comicattack.net!

Phoenix Lantern Corps' Best and Worst of 2010

2011-01-06T12:22:00.003-05:00

As evidenced by my horrible posting schedule, there was not enough time this year, which might explain how it's now the end of December. There's Hannukah and Christmas and New Years, each with their own parties and gifts and plans. But if my blog roll is any indication, it's also time to start looking back at the last year and ~~judge~~ reflect all of the developments that have come. Being nothing if not followers, we will be doing the same list, at least to the best of our abilities. Note that this stuff is from what we read, not from all comics ever. Let us know how we were wrong!

BEST...

New Series
Matt: Avengers: Children's Crusade, without a doubt. Even when I'm too busy to eat, this series will get me into the comic store. Birds of Prey is a runners up, as is S.H.I.E.L.D.
Arnab: There have been a lot of great new series' this year, but my vote definitely goes to American Vampire. The creative team have been putting out consistent, quality, exciting work since the first issue.

Avengers Children's Crusade

Ongoing Series
Matt: Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps have been great this year in the aftermath of Blackest Night.
Arnab: Red Robin. If you've been reading this, then you can't possibly need a reason why. But with a change in the writer mid-year, this series has continued to be excellent in every aspect.

Tim Drake as Red Robin

Mini-Series

Matt: Return of Bruce Wayne given my choices, but my feelings on Morrison's work are well-documented.
Arnab: Return of Bruce Wayne. I think Grant Morrison did a terrific job of taking a simple story of bringing Bruce back to the future and added layers of depth to both the story as well as the myth of Batman in general.

The unanimous choice for Best Event

Event
Matt: Blackest Night except I'm not sure it counts. I found every new turn to be incredible, and I loved all the colors in the art. Otherwise Second Coming which I enjoyed, especially at first, but felt it lost it's stride a little.
Arnab: Second Coming. This event was filled with amazing art, fantastic writing, and some really great moments. Overall, this event was the best in terms of excitement, storytelling, and artwork.

The Return of Hope

Issue
Matt: I have no clue. Green Lantern #54 when the entities are revealed for the Emotional Spectrum, I think. The mythology was just so damn cool, and things were building to a great climax.
Arnab: Batman and Robin #16. This issue brought Grant Morrison's run to a conclusion in spectacular fashion.

Moment
Matt: Nothing has topped the Blackest Night scene where the new lanterns were deputized, but that was technically 2009 by two days, so instead I will choose probably the scene in Red Robin where Bruce and Tim hug. My favorite part about Bruce's return are his emotional reunions.
Arnab: The scene in issue #17 of Red Robin, where Bruce and Tim hug, is my moment of the year. It was just, perfect.

Cover
Matt: All of the X-Men Djurdjevic alternate covers that made the big poster. Specifically whichever issue had Phoenix, Scott, and Storm on it.
Arnab: X-Force #28 by David Finch. I think this cover did an excellent job of encompassing both the issue itself as well as the entire event.

Francis Manapul's take on Superboy

Artist
Matt: I've got an answer for least favorite, but not favorite. I liked the distinctive art style in Chew, and I think Dustin Weaver does good work with S.H.I.E.L.D. And Francis Manapul will always have a soft-spot in my heart.
Arnab: This is a very hard decision for me, but I think I'm going to have to go with Rafael Albuquerque from American Vampire. For this one series he produced multiple styles that were all fantastic.


Albuquerque's work in American Vampire

Writer
Matt: Geoff Johns for his work on Blackest Night and Flash. Tony Bedard is also doing good stuff with Green Lantern Corps.
Arnab: Another hard decision, but I'm going to go with Chris Yost on this one. Not only did he have an amazing role in creating X-Force and Second Coming, but his run on Red Robin was all kinds of great.

A slice of Djurdjevic's X-Men Poster

Surprise
Matt: The fact that I now read more DC comics than Marvel comics. I've been a Marvel boy my whole life but the Green Lantern and Batman titles are just so good, overshadowing much of the X-Men universe that I love so much.
Arnab: The biggest surprise of the year came at the beginning for me, when Nekron reclaimed all of the reborn heroes and turned them into Black Lanterns.

We can't let 2010 go without mentioning Blackest Night

Kick-Ass Scene
Matt: A tough one. I guess in tribute to my love of Phoenix I'll choose Hope manifesting, although the White Lantern Reveal was also pretty bad-ass.
Arnab: Kick-Ass Scene of the year for me was when Hope Summers' powers manifested in X-Force #28. As a reader you knew it was coming but even then, when it happened it was awesome.

Bad ass, if obvious

WORST...

New Series
Matt: X-Men, namely because of this ridiculous Vampire plotline. It's not that there isn't the occasional interesting scene, but overall the thing is so bandwagon it earns its place here.
Arnab: I'm going to go with First Wave on this one. I couldn't get hooked onto this series from the first issue, so that's why it's here.

Ongoing Series
Matt: Superman gets landed here purely because of the recent "Grounded" story arc which, while I'm still reading it, I'm constantly confused about. But I also just remembered how bad the new Astonishing X-Men was.
Arnab: I make a strong effort to avoid reading things I don't like, but of the titles I do read, X-Men Legacy would have to take this dishonor. After Second Coming this series has struggled both in its writing and art.

I dislike Emma Frost, but this is offensive

Mini-Series
Matt: Batman Beyond started off well, and then just got weird. I'm never a fan of a clone plot.
Arnab: The four part mini-series Nation X has to take this honor. The stories had no unity, the art was hit or miss, and overall it was an unnecessary addition.

If only the event was as interesting as the cover

Event
Matt: Nation X was deathly dull. I had to literally drag myself through each issue. I don't even know why it was an event.
Arnab: I will probably go with Nation X on this one. I think overall it was not as good as all of the other events, even though there were portions of the story that were good, such as the Uncanny X-Men issues.

Moment
Matt: In the larger scale, I'm going to say it was when Bruce reappeared in Batman and Robin. The scene was awesome, but it was so out of the blue I think it betrayed the lead-up from all the other Return of Bruce Wayne books. Arnab and I spent the next week debating if it was even Bruce.
Arnab: I think the worst moment for me was in Blackest Night #8, when Hal Jordan tells Nekron that the heroes that returned from the grave didn't do so because Nekron allowed it, but simply because they wanted to.

I know what people say, but I disagree

Artist
Matt: I hated, hated, hated Frazer Irving's work on Batman and Robin. I also hate what Salvador Espin is doing in Generation Hope.
Arnab: There were a lot of pretty artists throughout the four part Nation X mini-series. So while I can't name them individually, just pick up an issue and you'll know what I'm talking about.

Writer
Matt: Believe it or not I don't think Grant Morrison is the worst writer, I just hate his stuff. I don't think I have an answer for this, to be honest. There are writers I hate, but I can't remember them.
Arnab: It's not that I think Adam Beechen is a terribly horrible writer. However, I think the manner in which Batman Beyond, the mini-series, ended was poorly written and lacking the strength that was present in the beginning.

Didn't live up to expectations

Disappointment
Matt: Brightest Day. After coming off of the cramazing Blackest Night, the slower pace threw me off, and I didn't like any of the characters.
Arnab:The conclusion to the War of the Supermen accomplished nothing more than to make the last two to three years of Superman history null and void.

Just kidding!

WTF Moment
Matt: When I found out the Vampires were attacking the X-Men.
Arnab: After much thought, this would have to go to Sinestro taking in the White Entity. At the time it felt like a major turning point, what with him boasting about being the "greatest Lantern of all time." In the end though, his position as a White Lantern didn't last any more than a couple pages.

I'm a new vampire, though

2011-01-04T19:55:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the New Year folks! I've got one last batch of comics from 2010 for you all. I've got a great set of books from a variety of publishers.

Chew #16 ****
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

The writing that has appeared in the sky has put everyone on edge and for a change chicken is no longer a priority. Tony is in the process of tracking down a missing F.D.A. agent, Daniel Migdalo, who just happens to be voresophic. Month after month this continues to be a great book to read. Not only does it keep you on your toes and guessing, it also does an excellent job of maintaining interest and intrigue by creating depth to the characters, both old and new.

S.H.I.E.L.D. #5 ***1/2
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Dustin Weaver
Cover Artist: Gerald Parel
Publisher: Marvel

I have mixed feelings about this issues. In the long run this series is looking to be all kinds of fantastic. It is definitely one of Marvel's most unique series' and continues to be a display of excellent writing and art. However, in the short run there doesn't appear to be a straightforward connection between issues and moments. This best part of this issue, in my opinion, was the car scene in which Howard Stark and Nathaniel Richards discuss the way that they will handle leaving their families. The whole question conflict between whether or not it's better to leave your family with the hopes of return or to leave them with a clean break was an interesting thought and was well written. Overall, I thought it was a good issue, but there wasn't very much cohesion between this issue and the last.

Uncanny X-Men #531 ****
Writer: Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillien
Artist: Greg Land
Cover Artist: Greg Land
Publisher: Marvel

Though this title has struggled since the end of Second Coming, this arc is bringing it back to the the level it once was. Matt Fraction is joined by Generation Hope writer, Kieron Gillien, and the two of them create an interesting issue. The mutant sickness is a nice idea, that as far as I know hasn't' occurred yet, which allows for the use of some of the second string mutants. It will be interesting to see the direction the power enhanced fake X-Men are taken. Their motivation, beliefs, goals, will all play a huge role by the time this is over. The most interesting part of this issue, and though it pains me to say it, was the cliff hanger in the Emma Frost portion of the story. Shaw has always been a formidable opponent and with his powers amped up it will be interesting how it all ends. My concern, though, is that there does not yet seem to be a connection between Emma's story and the other two parts.

X-Men #6 ****
Writer: Victor Hischler
Artist: Paco Medina
Cover Artist: Adi Granov
Publisher: Marvel

I thought that this was a great issue. For years now Scott has grown into this role of being the ultimate tactician and that is never more apparent than in this issue. He planned out the entire overthrowing of the vampires down to every minor detail. And the showdown between Dracula and Scott was all kinds of awesome, especially after following Scott blasting Blade's ass. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed both this issue and the arc.

X-Men Legacy #243 ***1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artist: Paul Davidson
Cover Artist: Leinil Francis Yu
Publisher: Marvel

This two part arc is a much needed improvement from the last arc. We continue to get a play by play of the incident a the construction site. Hellion brings up the evolution of his powers, which makes him immensely powerful as well as his reasoning for ripping apart the robot. Cyclops comes off looking a tad hypocritical for judging Hellion, however, as the leader it does fall on him to make these sorts of decisions. Rogue, on the other hand, comes off as a raving lunatic who probably shouldn't be around kids.

Artifacts #4 ****
Writer: Ron Marz
Artist: Michael Broussard
Cover Artist(s): Kalman Andrasofszky and John Tyler Christopher
Publisher: Top Cow

The first quarter of this epic event is over with this issue. Except for the 13th artifact, all the artifacts are now accountable and across the board six artifacts have joined the side of evil while the other artifacts have joined detective Sara Pezzini in the fight against evil. This issue, though it had a little bit of action, was mainly another set up issue for the big event. Eventually I'd like to see a bit more action, however I do think for non regular Top Cow readers, these introductory chapters are a blessing. Sara's daughter Hope appears to have an important role, though I can't imagine what that purpose is. Overall, it's a good issue, it could just use a tad more action.

American Vampire #10 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Mateus Santolouco
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

Arguably my favorite new series of this past year. Scott Snyder has created a vampire story that continues to shine amidst all these other vampire related books and shows. This issue focuses on the life and afterlife of Henry and Pearl. We learn of their secret feelings towards one another, especially now that we are seeing them over a decade later. The portion surrounding Haddie was perfectly executed, manipulating the world around her to create a more twisted world. Rafael Albuquerque takes a breakthis issue, but Mateus Santolouco does an excellent job taking over. The focus on Pearl is one that I've been looking forward to for a while now and the start of this arc does a good job of setting up the arc.

As per usual, my DC reviews can be found at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 12-22-10

2010-12-22T12:02:00.000-05:00

Hey folks! This is our pull list for the week. Our chance to let you know what we will be reading and reviewing. Merry Christmas everybody!

Arnab's Note: This week is a nice and diverse week for me, with regards to publishers.

Matt's Note: All I want for Christmas is a a gift card to the comics store. Italics are what I'll read but not buy.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman Annual #28
Batman Incorporated #2
Batman Streets of Gotham #18
Green Lantern Corps #55
Image
Chew #16
Marvel
Uncanny X-Men #531
X-Men #6
X-Men Legacy #243
Top Cow
Artifacts #4
Vertigo
American Vampire #10

Matt's List:
American Vampire #10
Batman Incorporated #2
Batman Annual #28
Green Lantern Corps #55
Wonder Woman #605
Justice League Generation Lost #16
Uncanny X-Men #531
X-Men #6
X-Men Legacy #243
Invincible Iron Man #33
Secret Avengers #8

Writer's Pull List 12-15-10

2010-12-22T11:56:00.000-05:00

So, we missed out on our pull list last week, but we're back now. For those of you not in the know, the pull list is our way of letting you all know what we will be reading and reviewing this week.

Arnab's Note: Two weeks of a low count pull list and I'm back at 10 issues this week.

Matt's Note: This is late completely because of me. New Years Resolution: Better blogging.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #705
Batman and Robin #18
Batman Orphans #2
Birds of Prey #7
Brightest Day #16
Green Lantern #60
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #5
Time Masters Vanishing Point #5
Marvel
Uncanny X-Force #3
X-Factor #212

Matt's List:
Batman and Robin #18
Batman #705
Birds of Prey #7
Brightest Day #16
Green Lantern #60
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #5
Superman #706
Uncanny X-Force #3
X-Factor #212

Head to the moon and you'll find the cheese

2010-12-20T22:31:00.000-05:00

So this week we've got Marvel's two best X-titles.

Uncanny X-Force #3 ****
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Jerome Opena
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

First up is the relatively new series, Uncanny X-Force. From the get go the creative team has done an excellent job with this series. This issue starts off with the X-Force continuing to get beat down by the new Horsemen. While Wolverine is nearly killed, Fantomex and Betsy are able to use their telepathy to confuse and distract the horsemen long enough to keep everyone alive. Meanwhile, Angel is on the verge of death himself and without a nifty healing mutation he is left with Deadpool taking care of him. The writing in this series is just great. The characters are depicted in a manner that is true to their history as well as with just a bit of an edge, that would one would expect from a covert team. We also get a nice dose of humor, from the likes of Deadpool and Fantomex especially, in an otherwise dark series. The art continues to please with its unique and beautiful style.

X-Factor #212 ****1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Emanuela Lupacchino and Pat Davidson
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Andrew Crossley
Publisher: Marvel

In a time where it seems all of Marvel's long running titles are struggling, X-Factor continues to come out with quality issues. The search for the troll named Pip, X-Factor finds them in the depths of Hela's reign. Trapped, they are forced to fight her army of dead. Even with Thor, the mighty Norse god of Thunder, things don't look good for the team, although Shatterstar would beg to differ. In a major turn of events, that is likely to effect Marvel books across the board, Darwin renders Hela useless as his powers adapt to make him the King of the Dead. Ever since the relaunch at #200 this title has put out excellent issues. The stories are smart, unique, and spotlight each of the members to their fullest. The art in this issue is really great and is a perfect partner to the writing.

I was held back once. First grade. Terrible Trauma.

2010-12-14T20:09:00.000-05:00

So I missed out on two weeks of reviews, but since I had no reviews for the blog last week, I figured today would be a great day to catch up.

American Vampire #9 *****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque and Mateus Santolouco
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

The end of the second arc comes to a fantastic end in this issue. The vampire killers, the vampires, and Skinner Sweet all make their move and in the end it is Cashel who is left to pick up the pieces. By this point it is clear that Snyder is able to create a vampire story that is not only fresh, but exciting from issue to issue. The league of vampires going around killing off other vampire cults is a nice juxtaposition to the vampire killers who are going around killing all vampires. Skinner Sweet reveals himself to be the ultimate badass in this issue, breaking his deal with the vampire league, then double crossing Cashel's father, and finally reaping his revenge on Cashel's unborn child. This story is consistently intelligent, fresh, and exciting. The art continues to be outstanding on Rafael Albuquerque's part as well as newcomer Mateus Santolouco. Essentially, this is a must read book.

Generation Hope #2 ***
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salva Espin
Cover Artist: Olivier Coipel
Publisher: Marvel

I'm on the fence with this title and I guess only time will tell. I think the story is pretty interesting. The fifth light is a unique mutant whose powers are actually fresh, unlike the other four copycats. In this issue the first four lights play relatively no role whatsoever, other than being Hope's cheerleaders. I think my biggest issue with the book, and I understand that this is a personal issue, is the disregard to leadership shown by Hope and her minions. Hope continues to act without any regard for anyone around her and the five lights seem to have no sense of authority. That being said, I do understand that this is just the second issue and it started off with a major battle so I will hold off ultimate judgment.

Uncanny X-Force #2 ****1/2

Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Jerome Opena
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

Speaking of second issues, I thought this issue was absolutely fantastic. When the lineup for this group was announced the only questionable member, in my opinion, was Betsy. Even having been aware of her somewhat violent past, the fact that she was more than a little outraged in Second Coming made her seem like the wrong choice. These first two issues, this one especially, have done a good job in making it clear why she's around. This issue introduced to us Apocalypse's new Four Horsemen and other than wondering why Gambit is not around, I think they are all kinds of awesome. The whole set of villains are great. The creepy kid to be Apocalypse's host is just that, creepy, much like the Four Horsemen who's appearance seems to personify their character. As is to be expected, Deadpool and Dr. Nemesis bring a nice touch of humor to the whole book. Wolverine, who if you've been taking notes is in like 7 places at once right now and in multiple stages of living, isn't nearly as annoying in this series. Warren's new batcave, excuse me, X-cave is pretty awesome as well and with the Manor having been demolished a couple years back, it's a pretty smart addition. 4.5/5

Uncanny X-Men #530 ***1/2
Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Greg Land and Jay Leisten
Cover Artist: Greg Land and Justin Ponsor
Publisher: Marvel

After a rocky start after the multi-title crossover, Second Coming, Uncanny is finally starting to get good again. The mutant sickness that is plaguing Utopia is a pretty smart plot, in my opinion, and as far as I know it is one that has not been done before. Coupled with the ragtag X-Men story line going on in San Francisco, this new arc has the potential of being some really great stuff that we've come to expect from Fraction.

X-Men Legacy #242 ***
Writer: Mike Carey
Artist(s): Paul Davidson
Cover Artist: Leinil Yu
Publisher: Marvel

If there was any title that suffered as much as Uncanny after Second Coming, it was Legacy. The last arc felt completely out of place, almost as if it was released at the wrong time. This issue starts up a new arc, although we are still left in the dark as to the entire story. The issue plays out in the flashbacks of multiple characters as they recall the events that take place at a construction site. I thought that this issue was a definite improvement over the last arc. The story itself feels more relevant than the previous, with Hellion still struggling over his lost arms, Scott sending a group out to assist in rebuilding San Francisco, people still dealing with Hope. It all feels like a better fit to have followed Second Coming, except it didn't. Unfortunately, the art continues to struggle in this title, with this new artist being no better than the previous one.

Walking Dead #79 ****1/2
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Publisher: Image

Being so far into the series, we can already start to picture what will happen next. There's a sense of calm, a rebuilding of sorts, and that is followed by an event of massive destruction. However, even anticipating all of this Kirkman is still able to keep the reader on our toes. The introduction of new characters, new situations, new relationships, all are a part of what keeps this series going. The juxtaposition of Douglas expressing his failures as a leader with the onslaught of zombies outside the walls is a perfect example of how character development mixed in with action keeps this story so good. Relationships and connections between people has been what this title has been about since the beginning and it is what keeps things fresh after so long. The artwork from day one, of my reading, has been fantastic and continues to be fantastic. Whether or not what I think will happen happens, I'm sure I'll be satisfied because of the consistent quality from this creative team.

You can read my DC reviews for this week at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List: 12-1-10

2010-11-30T13:28:00.000-05:00

Hey folks, this is our pull list. It's a sneak preview of the books that we will be reading this week.

Arnab's Note: This is the smallest pull I've had in weeks, which is great because of the sheer amount of work I have right now.

Matt's Note: I don't really have a note right now, short of Happy Holidays!

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman 80 Page Giant 2010
Batman Orphans #1
Brightest Day #15
Marvel
Generation #2
Vertigo
American Vampire #9

Matt's List:
American Vampire #9
Batman 80-page Giant 2010
Brightest Day #15
Generation Hope #2
Buffy #39

Shatterstar looks like he's having the time of his life.

2010-11-23T08:00:00.004-05:00

Artifacts #3 ****
Writer: Ron Marz
Artist: Michael Broussard
Cover Artist(s): Kalman Andrasofszky and John Tyler Christopher
Publisher: Top Cow

This is the third issue in the Top Cow major event and things are starting to heat up. On the one end, the good guys have all gathered together in light of Sara's missing daughter. While all gathered together, they are informed of the plot to bring all 13 artifacts together and the chaos and destruction such an act would cause. On the other end of the spectrum, team evil has gone around the world recruiting some of the wielders of the artifacts to join their cause. While this issue was mainly team building, it does set up the the future to look very interesting. The writing and the art combine to make one very beautiful book. My only concern is that somewhere along the 13 issues the story might falter. However, until that happens, if it happens at all, this book still remains a great read.

X-Factor #211 ****
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Emanuela Lupacchino and Pat Davidson
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Andrew Crossley
Publisher: Marvel

After checking in with Monet, Rictor, and Rahne in the last issue, it's back to Vegas this week. Longshot, Shatterstar, and Madrox have their hands full with an army of undead sent by Hela, who we see a little too much of in this issue, literally. Fortunately Darwin, Guido, and Siren arrive in time to even the odds. Everything comes to a stand still when another god makes a guest appearance.
I thought that overall this issue was great. The pacing of the action was fluid and not at all repetitive. It was cool seeing Layla use powers I didn't know she had. I was thoroughly pleased with the way Madrox talked about Shatterstar during the battle and loved the part where Shatterstar almost hits on said guest. The writing in this series is fantastic and the art is quite nice as well.

X-Men #5 ****
Writer: Victor Hischler
Artist: Paco Medina
Cover Artist: Adi Granov
Publisher: Marvel

If there was ever a doubt as to who should be leader of the free mutants, though why would you after Utopia and Second Coming, this issue definitely shows off his bits. With the Vampires itching for a fight, they send out their entire front line, which happens to be their only line of defense. Under the vampiric influence, Logan attacks his mutant brethren only to be stopped by the genius mind of Cyclops, who had planned for Logan to be turned into a vampire from the beginning.
I really liked this issue. It had just enough of a combination of action and storytelling. There were some great appearances by a couple of the X-Men who have not played a significant role in any other shows.

My DC comic reviews can be found at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 11-17-10

2010-11-17T08:00:00.001-05:00

Another week, another Pull List. Here's what we're reading this week, and hopefully it will inspire some of you. Tell us what you're reading!

Matt's Note: It's the return of Batman and the kick-off for Batman Inc. Aka, it's a really big week for comics, and a really bad week for my wallet. Things in italics are things that I probably won't be buying, but will try to read.

Arnab's Note: It is a huge week for Batman. And that makes me so happy I could... do something. Interestingly enough, the italics hold no significance in my portion of the list other than to signify the title.

Matt's List
Batman #704
Batman Incorporated #1
Batman The Return #1
Brightest Day #14
Flash #6
Green Lantern #59
Green Lantern Corps #54
Superman #705
Avengers #7
X-Factor #211
X-Men #5

Arnab's List
DC
Batman #704
Batman Incorporated #1
Batman: Streets of Gotham #17
Batman: The Return
Brightest Day #14
Flash #6
Green Lantern #59
Green Lantern Corps #54
Marvel
X-Factor #211
X-Men #5
Top Cow
Artifacts #3

Super Mega Review Round-up: DC Edition

2010-11-16T17:55:00.000-05:00

It has been approximately 5 months since I wrote a weekly review. That's a hell of a lot of comics to catch up on, and there's no way I can possibly write 25 posts for each of the weeks I've missed. To counteract that, I'm going to write two mega-posts about all of the titles from the two main publishers, DC and Marvel. They will probably be long, but at least well-organized and you can skip to whatever you're curious about!

So first on the list is going to be Brightest Day, just because I was so excited about it when it first started. Suffice to say that is no longer the case. Not because I don't thing the event is interesting, but because I find the pace of the story to be very frustrating given a bi-monthly release schedule. I don't want to wait two weeks after a really interesting cliffhanger and then have to read about characters I don't like. Which, also, happens to be most of them, but especially the Hawks and their RANDOM Hawkpeople vs. Lionpeople storyline. Deathstorm was kind of fun though, and the mystery revolving around their visions will keep me reading. In other Brightest Day news, I'm up to date on Generation Lost, and I really enjoyed the reference to Kingdom Come. I still think I wouldn't recommend either storyline until they've come out in Trade form.

From Brightest Day to Green Lantern's Light. There are now three titles: Green Lantern, Green Lantern Corps, and Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors. In my opinion GL is the strongest of the batch, and watching all of the different lanterns work together on Earth is quite fascinating. I especially like watching Atrocitus because he's such a complicated bad guy. I cannot wait until we figure out what the little thing with the green chain is. GLC sort of lost me with the whole Alpha Lantern storyline, but I love me some Kyle Raynor and Ganthet. The Emerald Warriors story is taking a bit longer to get off the ground, hampered by the fact that I find Guy to be a blowhard. After Blackest Night I'll keep reading any of the Lantern books, I just wish they had picked a different lead.

Where to start on the Bat-titles. There's so much to say this probably should have gone first. Over the last six months the return of Bruce Wayne has been amping up not only in the Return of Bruce Wayne titles, but also in Batman and Robin and the mini-series Batman: The Road Home. Not to mention Red Robin has gotten in on the act. I hesitate to go into too much depth on this because I hate always being so negative about Grant Morrison; I know many fans consider him to be the Second Coming of Comic Book Writers. Personally I find his books needlessly over-complicated, engendering a "Oh, you're just too stupid to get it" attitude from many comics fans. No, I get what he's doing, I just don't like it. He's throwing out sentence fragments and random images and verbal nonsense to add 'depth' to his stories that in my opinion winds up obscuring his true point. I don't want to have to read 5 trade paperbacks just to figure out what the hell the first three pages of RoBW #6 are talking about (and I have read those trades and I still don't get it). But I will give Morrison credit for doing something significant with the character, and while his execution is not my cup of tea the general framework he's set-up is interesting. He does a lot of interesting things with the character of Batman, breaking him down to build him back up again. I just wish the trip from A to B to C was not such a mind-fuck (to use Morrison's own words).

Regarding the other Bat titles, Red Robin has rapidly become my favorite. I love watching Tim orchestrate this huge master plan, but still have so much heart and humanity. The hug between him and Bruce this last week was great, and that's the sort of thing I love about this book. I'm sort of caught up on Gotham City Sirens, and while it's not my favorite I do like Catwoman a great deal. Birds of Prey is a fantastic book every week, and I really like having so many strong female characters on the page. I just wish they wore pants, but I don't need to go starting that again (I know BoP is technically a Brightest Day title, but as long as Oracle is there it will be a Bat-title for me). Batman Beyond just makes me miss the cartoon. I will say I do not approve of the stupid clone twist.

To finish up the DC universe, I don't have much to say. Wonder Woman is a great read, and anyone who's stuck with it has to acknowledge that many of the fears about this new turn for the character are unfounded. It's very clear that the current state of things is not right, and Diana has to go about fixing them She kicks major ass, but I wish she was a little bit less...unsure of herself? I guess I just miss the real Diana, and I'm glad she'll be coming back eventually. I don't think I will miss JMS much, though. I know for a fact I will not miss him on Superman. This whole "I'm going to walk the country" storyline is ridiculous in my opinion. They keep trying to pull tricks to make it less ridiculous, but I don't think they're succeeding very well. Superman has never been a favorite of mine, though, and I only picked it up for the JMS arc. With him leaving I can see myself not bothering to catch up on Supes. Superboy seems fun though, so I will be keeping up with that new title. I will also keep reading Flash if for no other reason than Manapul's art is fucking gorgeous and I can't wait to see more of it every month. I'm wary of time-travel storylines though, so I'm waiting to see how this pans out.

So I think that's everything from the DC universe! I read so much more DC now than I ever used to, but all the Batman stuff has really sucked me in. I blame Arnab. Stay tuned for a similar post for Marvel books sometime this week!

For the record, I am not the sort of person who enjoys dressing up in his mother's clothes

2010-11-16T09:00:00.003-05:00

Avengers: The Children's Crusade #3 ****1/2
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artist(s): Jim Cheung and Mark Morales
Cover Artist(s): Jim Cheung, Justin Ponsor, and Art Adams
Publisher: Marvel

This is looking to be an epic 9 part series. On both accounts, writing and art, the creative team knocks it out of the park. Fearing Wanda is being capture by Doom, the Young Avengers, Quicksilver, and Magneto all have different ideas of what they should do. Bickering and whining ensues, with a helping of yelling by Hulkling, and in the end Wiccan ventures off to Latveria on his own. With a bit of smart thinking (turning into Wanda) he is able to trick his way into Wanda's room only to come upon some startling news. Meanwhile, in Avengers' headquarters the Avengers approach Wonder Man to assist them in finding Wanda. Upon realizing what they intend to do with her, Wonder Man rejects their offer and goes off to find her on his own. Heinberg has created a fantastic story that is full of life and imagination. He has a great handle on all of these characters and is able to utilize them in a fascinating way. The art is absolutely beautiful in this book, from page to page there are more and more stunning spreads and splash pages. While it is unfortunate that there is a two month wait between issues, it does also mean that the story will stick with us for a longer amount of time and as long as it continues to be this great, who can complain.

American Vampire #8 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

Issue after issue, Scott Snyder continues to deliver a fresh take on the widely popular vampire genre. In this issue we get to see the entire legacy Jim Book left behind, in the form of his young lover and their child. Both, it would appear, have joined with a league of fearless vampire killers. Two such assailants approach Pearl with an offer to aid them in killing Skinner Sweet, because they themselves have no idea what his weaknesses are. Surprisingly, Pearl refuses to give Skinner up. Snyder is skillfully weaving the vampire lore he has created into the history of the country and he is doing it in a superb fashion. Rafael Albuquerque continues to shine as his artwork is perfectly matched to the story.

Chew #15 ****1/2
Writer: John Layman
Artist: Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

The best thing about this series is that time after time Layman continues to surprise us with twists and turns in the story. In this issue it is Thanksgiving, much like it will be in real life in a couple of weeks, and Tony is spending that time with his family. As would be expected, the get together isn't all warm and fuzzy. There are siblings that don't like each other, Tony's twin makes an appearance and she is great, Colby arrives with Tony's girlfriend, and oh wait, Tony's got a daughter. Every issue in this series is quirky fun, humorous, but it is also serious when it needs to be and that is exactly why it is so good. Guillory has a very unique style that works perfectly with the series. He is able to capture the fun, quirky story while also expressing an array of emotions through is art that works perfectly.

As usual my DC reviews can be read at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 11-10-10

2010-11-09T11:55:00.000-05:00

Another week, another pull list. This is a list of all the good books coming out, ha. Really though, it's a list of all the books that we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: I wouldn't exactly call this a big week for me, but it is a big week as far as the array of publishers that have books out this week that I read.

Matt's Note: Finally, finally, finally we get new Children's Crusade.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman: Return of Bruce Wayne #6
Birds of Prey #6
Green Lantern Emerald Warriors #4
Red Robin #17
Marvel
Avengers: Children's Crusade #3
Vertigo
American Vampire #8
Image
Chew #15

Matt's List:
American Vampire #8
Batman: Return of Bruce Wayne #6
Birds of Prey #6
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #4
Red Robin #17
Avengers: Children's Crusade #3
Chew #15

Teon has just urinated on my feet!

2010-11-08T13:12:00.000-05:00

Generation #1 ***1/2
Writer: Kieron Gillen
Artist: Salva Espin
Cover Artist: Olivier Coipel
Publisher: Marvel

Hope, Rogue, and four of Earth's newest mutants make their way to collect the fifth light in the launch of this new series. Logan and Scott encounters the final mutant in Japan, who also happens to be the most interesting new mutant, and unfortunately he has undergone a tragic mutation. After meeting these mutants in Uncanny X-Men, I didn't have the greatest impression, considering they're all basically copies of previous mutants. However, they're beginning to feel a bit more human and slightly more likeable. What this does great is show Hope as the leader she was born to be. She appears to have a great deal of influence and control over these new lights. Unfortunately, she's also a bit reckless. While she has been raised by one of the greatest soldiers of all time, she does not take orders well, at all. Along those same lines, as a result of her solitary childhood, she's not particularly a team player, which will most likely cause problems with her role as an X-Man and her role as a leader. The art stands out, in light of some of the other art in the other X-books, as being done exceptionally well. Overall, this was a pretty good start to this new series.

Check out my DC reviews at ComicAttack.net!

Superman/Batman - Apocalypse

2010-11-03T17:21:00.001-04:00

Stop the presses, I'm writing a review. After a three month absence, I am back. I have no idea for how long, but at least there is virtual proof that I am not dead.

So anyway, back to the review. Last week I watched the new direct-to-DVD animated film "Superman/Batman - Apocalypse." And I gotta say, it was kind of awesome. First things first, though: this movie should be called "Trinity - Apocalypse" because Wonder Woman has just a big a role as either Bruce or Clark. And I'm not gonna lie, her kicking ass plays a big part into why I like the film.


I'm having "Necrosha" deja-vu, but Arnab says I'm crazy

The movie opens with Kara (aka Supergirl) crashing to Earth. Superman rescues her from the cops and takes her to the Fortress of Solitude, where he tries to train her without much success. Bats is suspicious because of something wrong with her DNA, but Clark ignores him. Eventually Diana kidnaps Kara so that they can train her properly and she won't blow up a city by accident. Meanwhile Harbinger is having all kinds of bad visions about Kara dying. Turns out the visions are because Darkseid has found out about Supergirl and is intent on kidnapping her. With the aid of a big Doomsday-clone distraction, he manages to grab Kara and brainwash her. The DC Trinity teams up with Big Barda and heads off to Apokalips to rescue Supergirl and have the traditional climatic battle.

DC really knows how to do animated films now. They managed to get Kevin Conroy and Tim Daly for Bats and Supes, which makes the damn film for me. After growing up on the Batman and Superman animated series as well as Justice League, I just can't imagine anyone else doing these voices, and often complain vociferously when someone else does. The animation was gorgeous (although they way they drew the upper-lips on the men was distracting for me, mainly cause I'm crazy). They managed to add a lot of subtlety to facial expressions and movement, and captured the action better than they ever did in the cartoon series.

It looks like he's pursing his lips to me.

The story itself wasn't exactly anything ground-breaking, but it was an enjoyable hour and a half to watch, and definitely recommended for any fans of the other DC-Animated works. Pick it up if you get a chance!

Writer's Pull List 11-03-10

2010-11-03T11:01:00.000-04:00

Hey folks, this is our pull list. Everything we'll be reading this week and will be reviewing.

Arnab's Note:
I'm a little displeased that Avengers: The Children's Crusade is late. In other news, I am happy that DC decided to push Batman Inc.'s launch back so that the Bruce Wayne could return in a timely fashion.

Matt's Note: I too have been wondering where the hell Children's Crusade is. In other news I finally got my ass to the comic shop.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #16
Batman/Catwoman Follow the Money
Brightest Day #13
Red Hood: Lost Days #6
Superboy #1
Marvel
Generation Hope #1

Matt's List:
Batman and Robin #16
Superboy #1
Generation Hope #1
Scarlet #3
X-Men: To Serve and Protect #1 (Maybe)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer #38

Time to get between a man and his meal

2010-11-02T08:00:00.003-04:00

Uncanny X-Men #529 ***
Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist(s): Whilce Portacio and Harvey Tolibao
Cover Artist: Terry Dodson and Rachel Dodson
Publisher: Marvel

This was a decent issue. Nothing great about it, in fact, it was a little too uneventful. Emma enlists Phantomex to get Sebastian Shaw off of Utopia. Hope, Rogue, and the first three mutants to appear after Hope find the fourth mutant. Scott and Logan seemingly find the fifth mutant, who may be a killer. I am not sure if the Emma story line is over, which is what makes it weird. It's the end of the first arc, so it could really go either way. However, either way, the direction of that plot line feels a little out of place. So far, I'm not particularly liking these new mutants. Their power sets are too similar to some great, already established mutants and their personalities haven't won me over yet. The art was pretty good this week, though I'm sure no one will be sad to see Whilce go.

X-Men: Curse of Mutants - X-Men vs Vampires #2 **1/2
Writer(s): Mike Benson, Howard Chaykin, and Mike W. Barr
Artist(s): Mark Texeira, Howard Chaykin, and Agustin Padilla
Cover Artist: Nick Bradshaw and Jim Charalampidis
Publisher: Marvel

This issue pales in comparison to the first issue, in my opinion. There were four main stories, one involving Gambit, on involving Karma, the third involving Armor and Rockslide, and the final focusing on Angel. The Gambit story was pretty good actually, the writing at least. It was a nice story that alluded to things outside the story, namely his and Rogue's relationship. However, the art was not good. In fact, that was a recurring theme in these stories, bad art. Karma's story was decent. What it did well was remind me that she's a lesbian, while showcasing the fact that she's not completely useless. The Armor and Rockslide story, I feel, was meant to be just a fun story. Unfortunately for me, it didn't exactly pan out that way. The best portion of this issue was Angel's story. The plot was smart and interesting and the art was the best in the issue. It was nice seeing the internal struggle between Angel and the blackness inside of him.

X-Men Legacy #241 ***1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artist(s): Clay Mann, Tom Raney, Jay Leisten, and Sandu Florea
Cover Artist: Leinil Francis Yu
Publisher: Marvel

From the first three issues of the arc, my gut thought was that this would be a disaster. However, I actually found myself liking this issue quite a bit. Trapped in an otherworldly spacecraft both Rogue and Magneto are able to overpower their captors. The younger X-Men were actually likeable in this issue, whereas in the past I found them to be annoying and useless. Here, they acted more like X-Men and less like children. I think it will be interesting to see how Indra handles all of the violence in future issues. The art was quite nice in this issue and had a very similar feel to the art in House of M.

My DC reviews can be read here!

Writer's Pull List: 10-27-10

2010-10-27T10:57:00.000-04:00

Hello, readers! If you've been here before, you know that this is our pull list. Meaning this is where you can find out what we will be reading, what we will be reviewing, and it is also your opportunity to recommend new things to us.

Arnab's Note: Well it's another 8+ week for me. Things should settle after this week though. The last of the Road Home one shots are out this week and they've been pretty great. For those of you who were wondering, this is Whilce's last slated issue on Uncanny X-Men.

Matt's Note: I'm contemplating Superman Earth One, but it seems like a sizable purchase and it didn't get great reviews. I will be so very happy when this Children of the Vault storyline is over.

Arnab's List:
DC
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Oracle
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Ras Al Ghul
Green Arrow #5
Teen Titans #88
Time Masters Vanishing Point #4

Marvel
Uncanny X-Men #529
X-Men: Curse of Mutants - X-Men vs Vampires #2
X-Men Legacy #241

Matt's List:
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Oracle
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Ras Al Ghul
Wonder Woman #604
X-Men Legacy #241
Uncanny X-Men #529

Someone could be hurt. I need to check it out.

2010-10-25T12:23:00.001-04:00

The Walking Dead #78 ***1/2
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Cover Artist(s): Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn
Publisher: Image

This issue had some really great moments to it, however I do feel that there were some issues. For the past couple of months Rick and the gang have been living fairly normal lives in the gated community they were brought to. This issue starts off on a somber note, with the three deaths from the last issue hanging over everyone's head. Meanwhile, outside the wall, we've witnessed a fairly gruesome gang of men slowly inching their way towards the gated homes. I actually feel that this whole situation settled itself a little too fast; it felt a tad rushed. However, what came out of it, was a great hint at what is to come. At the very end of the issue, there is a scene between Douglas and Rick that leaves Rick in a familiar role, but one that I had hoped he had left behind.

X-Factor #210 ***1/2
Writer: Peter David
Artist: Valentine DeLandro
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Frank D'Armata
Publisher: Marvel

After being conveniently missing from the previous issue, this issue is centered around Monet, Rictor, and Rahne. Monet's portion of the story is mainly a set up. She makes a fairly rash decision that will likely cause many problems for the entire X-Factor team, it has in fact already caused one death. Rictor and Rahne's situation, if you will, is a pretty ugly situation. My theory is that we, the readers, are meant to feel some form of sympathy towards Rahne, who has been dealt a mystical pregnancy to deal with on her own. However, the longer Rahne is portrayed as a lying, conniving, homewrecker (not to sound biased or anything) the less chance I think the character will be able to move on from this story line with any semblance of dignity or even any fans.

As usual, my DC reviews can be read at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List: 10-20-10

2010-10-20T13:11:00.000-04:00

How's it going folks? As usual, here's our pull list, basically everything we will be reading and reviewing.

Arnab's Note: This is my third week in a row with 7 or more issues. I could really use a break from all the reviews comic world. Of course, I don't want the break from the actual comics, oh the conundrums.

Matt's Note: These Bruce Wayne: Road Home books are interesting, but I'd like to actually see him get home first.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman and Robin #15
Batman Beyond #5
Brightest Day #12
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Catwoman
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Commissioner Gordon (maybe)
Green Lantern Corps #53

Marvel
X-Factor #210

Image
The Walking Dead #78

Matt's List:
Batman and Robin #15
Batman Beyond #5
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Catwoman
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Commissioner Gordon (maybe)
Green Lantern Corps #53
X-Factor #210
New Mutants #18

I'll choke the bay with vampire bodies.

2010-10-19T05:13:00.000-04:00

X-Men #3 ****
Writer: Victor Hischler
Artist: Paco Medina
Cover Artist: Adi Granov
Publisher: Marvel

The vampires are moving in on San Francisco in increased numbers and Scott is not going to have any of it. After his last plan not panning out the way he wanted it to, Dracula disappearing on them instead of helping out, Scott is forced into action in a different way. He sends out mutant patrol teams to keep the casualties low and contacts Xarus on his "secure line." In a scene that parallels his speech to Osborn, Scott tells Xarus to cease fighting or he will be the cause of the largest vampire slaughtering known to man. In response, Xarus reveals the newly vamped Logan and Jubilee, which shocks some of the X-Men.
I thought that this was a great issue. Admittedly, I'm a huge Cyclops fan so anytime a writer portrays him as the badass ruler of mutants I know him to be, well that's a great time. I am excited about what his plan is exactly, especially because I've got a gut feeling he planned for Logan to get turned. Also, Dracula is definitely going to join in the mix sometime soon and I can't help but hope that it is to help the X-gang and not to challenge them.

And as usual, my DC reviews (which there are many of this week) can be read right here!

Writer's Pull List 10-13-10

2010-10-12T14:18:00.000-04:00

How's it going folks! For those of you who are new to the site, the pull list is meant to give you a preview of the books that we will be reading and reviewing this week.

Arnab's Note: Like I previously mentioned, all the regular Bat-titles will not be released this month. Instead, there will be a series of one shots under the headline "Bruce Wayne: The Road Home."

Matt's Note: I'm not going anywhere this weekend, so I will actually have time to stop by the Comic Shop! I hope they didn't throw out my comics. And PS - I'm done with X-Men vs. Vampires. I couldn't get through #3.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne #5
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Batgirl
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Batman & Robin
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Red Robin
Green Lantern #58
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #3

Marvel
X-Men #4

Matt's List
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Batman & Robin
Bruce Wayne: The Road Home - Red Robin
Batman: The Return of Bruce Wayne #5
Green Lantern #58
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #3

My name is Leonardo DaVinci

2010-10-11T07:00:00.003-04:00

S.H.I.E.L.D. #4 ****
Writer: Jonathan Hickman
Artist: Dustin Weaver
Cover Artist: Gerald Parel
Publisher: Marvel

This story is unravelling into something completely fantastic. However, what that is is still a tad unclear. The issue starts off with the meeting of two humankind's greatest minds: Leonardo DaVinci and Isaac Newton. After passing Newton's test, DaVinci proceeds with his mission, which happens to involve traveling to the sun. Meanwhile, our protagonist Leonid is on a journey of his own, one that leads him directly to the chained up Nostradamus, who had been waiting for him. What this series does so amazingly well is integrate such prominent minds from our history and weave them into Leonid's story. However, I do feel that in all of this it is Leonid's story that tends to get lost. Nevertheless, the story is still fascinating. And the art is so beautiful that it perfectly enhances the the story.

Uncanny X-Force #1 ****1/2
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Jerome Opena
Cover Artist: Esad Ribic
Publisher: Marvel

The news of the Uncanny X-Force's launch, months ago, did little to console my pain from the loss of both Cable and X-Force, the cast being revealed at the end of Second Coming did start to change my mind though. This first issue did a great job of removing all my fears that this series would be a less than comparable spinoff. It starts off with the ever popular and ever funny Deadpool on a top secret mission. When he gets into a bit of a jam, however, it is time for reinforcements to brought in. Psylocke and Angel appear to have started up their relations once again and Psylocke is even helping keep Archangel at bay. This will likely become more important in the near future as Apocalypse is the first terror on the X-Force's shit list.
Wolverine and Fantomex join Betsy and Warren en route and it's off to Egypt they go. They arrive just in time to save Deadpool and learn of Apocalypses current scheme to resurrect himself.
Overall I thought that this issue was fantastic. Like I said, I was a tad bit weary about the series, but it would appear my worries were unnecessary. Deadpool and Fantomex bring a welcome lightness and humor into what could easily have been a very dark series. While I am still not convinced that this ragtag group of angry soldiers are truly capable of keeping themselves hidden from Cyclops, leader of the free mutants, I'm sure this will be addressed some time in the future. While the writing and the direction of the story is great, the artwork is just beautiful. This is the start of what looks like will be a great series. it's got a great cast, excellent writing, and amazing art.

American Vampire #6 ****
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

What will soon become considered a classic, American Vampire continues to deliver a great story with brilliant art. The issue starts off at Skinner Sweet's brothel, where one of Sweet's gals is suspect #1 in a murder investigation. While this lead proves to be a dead end, Ms. Book throws what can only be described as a hissy fit towards Sweet. Later on the authorities interview a person of power, with regards to the building of the dam, who is murdered only feet away from them. Even later, Sweet visits Ms. Book in her hotel room informing her that he knew who she was and also that he was untouchable.
This plot continues to thicken in this brilliant tale that weaves Vampirism into the American history. The story not only continues to impress, but also continues to maintain interest as the series moves forward. Not to take away from the writing, which is fantastic, but I would be remiss to not mention the sheer brilliance of the art. What Albuquerque is doing in this series is virtually unheard of. With every plot line and time period he is introducing a completely new artistic style. Each of them a valid expression of the time period, the character, and each of them just as fantastic as the previous.

Be sure to check out m DC reviews also at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List 10-06-10

2010-10-07T22:38:00.000-04:00

Well folks, it's time for our weekly pull list. As usual it is a time for you to find out what we will be reading this week.

Arnab's note: It's a pretty big week for me again. For those of you who don't know, this month all of the regular Bat-titles will not be coming out. Instead, there will be one-shot specials in its place.

Matt's note: I got nothin' to add.

Arnab's List:
DC
Brightest Day #11
Red Hood: Lost Days #5

Marvel
S.H.I.E.L.D. #4
Uncanny X-Force #1

Vertigo
American Vampire #6

Matt's List:
Uncanny X-Force #1
S.H.I.E.L.D. #4
American Vampire #6

And you better hope that not a single hair is touched on Colby's head.

2010-10-05T08:00:00.011-04:00

Artifacts #2 ****
Writer: Ron Marz
Artist(s): Michael Broussard, Rick Basaldua, Joe Weems, Sal Regla, Dulce Brassea, and Dale Keown
Cover Artist: Ryan Sook
Publisher: Top Cow

It has been a while since the first issue came out, which may prove to be a problem for those of you who do not have a familiarity with the Top Cow Universe, much like myself. Thankfully though, I did not have such a problem. This issue was just fantastic. I am still not familiar enough with the characters that I know all of their names, but unlike with X-Men Legacy, there is that emotional click. I want to learn more about these characters, I want that little girl to be found by her parents, I want her parents to open a world of pain on the lady that kidnapped her, i genuinely want to read more. This is the direct result of two things. One, the writing, the overall story, is just fantastic. It's a unique story and without having read any of the other Top Cow series' it is evident that this book will be a major game changer in the Top Cow Universe. Even better than the writing, in my opinion, is Michael Broussard's artwork. The sheer detail and beauty in his art is positively fabulous. His art takes the story and literally brings it to life in ways that I can't even begin to describe.

Chew #14 ****
Writer: John Layman
Artist(s): Rob Guillory
Cover Artist: Rob Guillory
Publisher: Image

Issue after issue, Chew does a great job of telling a great story while incorporating new, interesting, and sometimes freaky ideas and characters. This issue gives us a glimpse into Tony's past, where his psychotic ex-girlfriend remains. Meanwhile, Savoy's return only means bad things for poor Colby who can never seem to get a break. What is also great about Chew is that it is one of those stories where you can't anticipate or guess what will happen next. The unique story and style of writing allows for a cohesive, exciting story. This issue also proves that Chew is more than just a really funny comic, as it explores and adds depth to the relationships in Tony's life in meaningful, natural manner. The artwork also remains consistent throughout the series and does a great job of accentuating the writing.

X-Men: Curse of the Mutants- X-Men vs. Vampires #1 ****
Writer(s): James Asmus, Christopher Sequeira, Peter David, Rob Williams, and Chris Claremont
Artist(s): Tom Raney, Sana Takeda, Mick Bertilorenzi, Doug Braithwaite, Bill Sienkiewicz, and Bob Wiacek
Cover Artist: Nick Bradshaw and Jim Charalampidis
Publisher: Marvel

This issue was done in the same fashion as Nation X was done; there were a series of shorts involving the X-Men. For the most part this issue was pretty good. What was most effective, I think, was that the creators were able to use some secondary characters that are often looked over, such as Husk or Martha. With such an extensive cast, these multi-short storied issues are a perfect way of accessing characters that have a fan base but do not fit into the main titles. This issue did a great job of showcasing Husk's powers, which many people tend to forget about. The second story, Dazzler's story, was great. It did a nice job of giving the vampire's side of the issue. Same goes for Magneto's story, both did a nice job of showing the humanity inside the vampires, which had otherwise been missing in this arc. Martha's story was a nice continuation of her story in Nation X where she came to realize that she might enjoy being a superhero. What is also great about having these mini stories is that there is a chance to showcase some new artists and give the audience a feel of the new talent. In this case, 3 of the 4 artists incorporated were fantastic and would be a great addition to any one of the X-titles.

X-Men Legacy #240 **1/2
Writer: Mike Carey
Artist(s): Clay Mann and Jay Leisten
Cover Artist: Leinil Francis Yu
Publisher: Marvel

This was a decent issue. Rogue and Magneto being manhandled and tossed aside like children was interesting to see. My biggest complaint with this arc though, is that I am having a hard time being emotionally compelled. Usually by this point of an arc I will want to know more about a character or I will feel an emotional bond with a character. And unfortunately for this arc, that is not happening for me. As much as I love Rogue, that alone can't make a successful arc. The beings from the other dimension, Anole, Indra, and Loa are, unfortunately, not a strong supporting cast at all Admittedly, my disliking this arc has a lot to do with the disconnect between me and the characters, which may not be the case for other readers.

As per usual, you can find all of my DC reviews right here!

Writer's Pull List 09-29-10

2010-09-30T13:55:00.000-04:00

Admittedly we're running a little late this week, considering comics came out yesterday. But, here is what we will be reading.

Arnab's Note: I've got quite the pull this week. And surprisingly from an array of publishers.

Matt's Note: This is a light week for me, which means I'm cruising for a case of wallet-rape in the coming weeks.

Arnab's List:
DC
Gotham City Sirens #16
Green Arrow #4
Time Masters: Vanishing Point #3

Marvel
X-Men: Curse of Mutants- X-Men vs Vampires #1
X-Men Legacy #240

Image
Chew #14

Top Cow
Artifacts #2

Matt's List:
Chew #14
X-Men Legacy #240
Wonder Woman #603

Mom is dead. You can't talk to her.

2010-09-29T13:45:00.002-04:00

My apologies for being late this week.

Uncanny X-Men #528 ***
Writer: Matt Fraction
Artist: Whilce Portacio
Cover Artist: Terry Dodson and Rachel Dodson
Publisher: Marvel

So much happened in this issue I'm not even sure if a recap is worth it, but here goes. There's a new mutant, and if one neglected Iceman wasn't enough, we've now got a fire/ice chick. Luckily for her, Storm and Hope were on hand to rescue her from the crazy men with guns. Meanwhile on Utopia, Emma needs to get rid of Shaw, who Namor believes to be dead. Unfortunately for her, Kitty is now aware of her plans. For the most part these two portions of the story were decent. The interaction between Kitty and Emma is amusing as ever. Storm's part in this issue was good, one of the more recent times she has appeared and not pissed me off. That being said, these new mutant stories are all tending to feel like a slightly tweaked version of the same story. Another strange thing about this issue was that it threw in two short scenes involving Iceman, Dazzler and Northstar. Overall the story didn't flow as well as it has in the past. The artwork still seems to be a problem. While the art seems to be improving, the change is only visible in certain scenes and with certain characters.

The Walking Dead #77 ****
Writer: Robert Kirkman
Artist: Charlie Adlard
Cover Artist: Charlie Adlard
Publisher: Image

I can say this over and over again, but it won't actually mean anything until you read it. There is a definite reason this series won the award for Best Continuing Series. The issue starts off with Carl blasting his father for his "talks" with the dead Lori. Next up we've got Glenn and Maggie, who are still dealing Maggie's attempted suicide a while back. But quite possibly the most cheer-worthy thing that has happened in issues is when Rick is allowed to shoot a man for slashing a woman's throat. What is exceptionally great about this issue is that it demonstrates the necessity of the need to change, especially in times of tragedy.

As usual, you can read my DC reviews right here!

Writer's Pull List: 9-22-2010

2010-09-22T13:38:00.000-04:00

Hey all! Here's a list of things we will read, with some 'maybe's thrown in for good measure. Let us know what you're reading!

Matt's Note: Dropping the ball left, right, and center. But it's a very light week.
Arnab's Note: It's a light week. I'd really like to add Green Lantern Corps to my pull list, but I can't for the life of me, figure out what to remove.

Matt's List
Flash #5
Green Lantern Corps #52
Secret Avengers #5
Uncanny X-Men #528

Arnab's List
DC
Batman Streets of Gotham #16
Flash #5

Marvel
Uncanny X-Men #528

Image
Walking Dead #76

Avast! Come on ye swabs!

2010-09-21T10:00:00.006-04:00

X-Factor #209 ****
Writer: Peter David
Artist(s): Emanuela Lupacchino and Pat Davidson
Cover Artist(s): David Yardin and Edgar Delgado
Publisher: Marvel

What do you get when you take a band of hooligans and plop them into Vegas? All kinds of greatness. First and foremost I need to express just how much I am coming to love Shatterstar. He's a great character and I find that as more and more characters join the story, he remains consistently fun and energetic. The writing in this issue is smart. Peter David clearly knows the characters very well and is able to create the perfect situations for each individual. The gang is in Vegas this week and who could be surprised that Guido ends up in a strip joint, Shatterstar ends up fighting some pirate actors, and Longshot ends up using his powers for gambling. Character development aside, the direction that this series has been headed looks and seems great. The Rictor-Rahne baby drama took a backseat this week to the developing Hela story, and the issue is better off for it.

My DC reviews can be found right here!

Writer's Pull List: 09-15-10

2010-09-15T10:55:00.004-04:00

Hey all! Here's a list of things we will read, with some 'maybe's thrown in for good measure. Let us know what you're reading!

Matt's Note: Every time I see Birds of Prey on the list I get so excited.
Arnab's Note: I'm fairly excited about Batman Beyond.

Matt's List

Astonishing Spider-man/Wolverine #3
New Mutants #17
X-Factor #209
Batman Beyond #4
Birds of Prey #5
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #2

Arnab's List
DC
Batman Beyond #4
Birds of Prey #5
Brightest Day #10
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #2

Marvel
X-Factor #209

I didn't hear you complaining last night

2010-09-13T15:42:00.001-04:00

American Vampire #5 ****1/2
Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Cover Artist: Rafael Albuquerque
Publisher: Vertigo

This is one of those series' that everyone should be reading. It's just one of those books that has a great combination of writing and artwork and in a couple of years or even months you're gonna wish you had read it from the beginning. Now that Stephen King has left the series, the split story issues are gone and instead the series reverts to a normal one story series.
With this issue there is a change in the protagonist of the story, with Pearl having left in the last issue. We are introduced to the newly appointed chief of police in Vegas, Cashel McCogan. There is some type of creature roaming around town killing people and draining them of their blood. As a result the FBI have sent in Jack Straw with his assistant, Felicia Book. The three of them follow a trail strait to Jim Smoke, a character we are all very familiar with.
The writing in this series in fantastic. With the sheer amount of vampire related tv shows, books, and movies out right now this series continues to be original and captivating. Now, the artwork in this series has been absolutely brilliant. Albuquerque has been doing the art for the entire series and with every story his style changes and he executes this superbly.

X-Force: Sex and Violence #3 *****
Writer: Craig Kyle and Chris Yost
Artist: Gabriele Del'otto
Cover Artist: Gabriele Del'otto
Publisher: Marvel

For just a short mini-series, this was absolutely fantastic. The writing, the direction of the story, the artwork all work extremely well with one another. The final leg of the three part story starts up with Domino and Logan reaching Belladonna and warning her to cease fighting. As you would expect, she didn't, and just as things looked bad for Logan and Domino, the rest of the X-Force gang arrive and save the day. I was surprised to find out that this takes place before Second Coming. The saddest part about this issue is that it is the final Chris Yost and Craig Kyle X-Force book. Their run was absolutely fantastic and they will definitely be missed.

X-Men #3 ***
Writer: Victor Hischler
Artist: Paco Medina
Cover Artist: Adi Granov
Publisher: Marvel

I have been enjoying this plot quite a bit. Understandably, people are a bit tired of the whole vampire craze, but I think this series is doing a good job with it. Scott is taking the fight to the vampires directly. In a moment of sheer brilliance, or maybe not, Scott resurrected the deceased Dracula. Meanwhile Logan has been caught and turned into a vampire by the young Jubilee. The writing for the series so far has been pretty good. The characters have a very natural feel to them. I do, however, think that the artist has a very Terry Dodson-esque style, however between the two I would prefer Dodson's art.

As usual you can also read my DC reviews at ComicAttack.net!

Writer's Pull List: 09-09-10

2010-09-09T11:40:00.000-04:00

Hey all! So this is our pull list, basically the books that are coming out this week that we are planning on reading and even some that we might possibly read. Since it was Labor Day on Monday comics came out on Thursday, today.

Arnab's Note: Not much to say, it looks like a great week for Batman fans like myself.
Matt's Note: I have no idea why I'm getting X-Men #3. This Vampire thing annoys me to no end.

Arnab's List:
DC
Batman #703
Batman and Robin #15
Green Lantern #57
Red Robin #16

Marvel
X-Force: Sex and Violence #3
X-Men #3

Vertigo
American Vampire #6

Matt's List:
X-Men #3
American Vampire #6
Green Lantern #57
Batman #703
Batman and Robin #14
Red Robin #16