Action Comics 1 by Grant Morrison and Rags Morales (DC) — Wednesday 9-7-11
Not a continuation of All Star Superman! This Superman is a hero of the working man who makes an executive admit he's a thieving liar. This Superman runs rather than flies. There's conflict between the way this Superman appears and the way the Superman in Justice League looks, but I have confidence all will be explained. A return to the begining for Lex Luthor, who delivers Superman in the very first issue — how wild is that?! And could that mysterious purple-tinted personage be Mxyzptlk? This book is Grant Morrison work that's easy to absorb. I thought it was a lot of fun!
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Rocketeer Adventures 4 Various Artists & Writers (IDW) — Wednesday 8-31-11
Does this mini series have to end? Who knew I liked the Rocketeer so much? An excellent assortment of talent matched with an outstanding array of fun and eexciting stories. How about we do this same time next year guys?
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Captain America and Bucky 621 by Ed Brubaker, Marc Andreyko, Chris Samnee (Marvel)
— Wednesday 8-24-11
There's so much to like about this issue it's hard to know where to start. Bucky Barnes finds out what being Cap's sidekick is all about—taking down C-list goons, training, and going to the talking pictures show to watch newsreels with bad actors portraying the duo. Bucky and Steve are in the theater and Bucky makes his disdain for the way he is portrayed known and tells Steve they should be on the front lines fighting Nazis, not pimps and muggers. They get set on the trail of some circus trapeze artists that might be in league with the Nazis and meet an informant. Bucky uses that chance to mack on some dames and also provide a cover story for the two of them. Cap and Bucky snoop around and find what they want, then hightail it after being seen. After Cap and Bucky return in costume, the place is deserted aside from their informant, who lies bleeding out. The informant tells Cap and Bucky that they need to stop the train and fills them in about the plan to kill soldiers at the train station. Cap and Bucky make a break for it and get on the train. Bucky is forced to kill the conductor via knife to the throat. Bucky seems to be dealing with the moral issues of murder at issue's end.
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X-Men Schism 3 by Jason Aaron Daniel Acuna (Marvel)
— Wednesday 8-17-11
The divide deepens this issue when young mutant Idie, Logan's protege, is told by Scott to "do what she feels she has to." In an effort to free 4 captured X-Men, she inadvertently kills over ten Hellfire soldiers. Scott and Logan have words, and it's a return to the friction these two characters used to have. All signs point to this not ending well—and we see why there'll be a Wolverine and the X-Men book that is separate from Uncanny! Good stuff!
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Hellboy The Fury 3 by Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo (Dark Horse)
— Wednesday 8-10-11
I had to see for myself. Sure enough, Mignola went and blew HB out of our reality.It's been rumoured that there'll be a new project drawn by Mignola as well as some flashback tales done with Corbin. We can only hope, but we can all look forward to Hellboy in Hell(Yaaayyy?). Anyway—thanks Big Red for saving existence!
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Moon Knight 4 by Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev (Marvel)
— Wednesday 8-3-11
I had to award this book the Silver Bullet just based on the fact that I wasn't sure Moon Knight imagined he had his cape and cowl or maybe he just grabbed a nearby tablecloth and started fighting people who may or may not have been the Nightshift. Bendis has got me on this title! I can't believe I made Moon Knight the Silver Bullet!!
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Flashpoint: Project Superman 2 by Scott Snyder, Lowell Francis, Gene Ha (DC)
— Wednesday 7-27-11
I surprised myself with this pick. The story so far is so in human and dark —I had no choice but to go with this Flashpoint title. Let this be the new wave of the future for DC Comics. They seem like a publisher that's poised to make big things happen!
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Marvel Universe vs Wolverine 2, Lawrence Campbell, Jonathan Mayberry (Marvel)
— Wednesday 7-20-11
Atmospheric, moody and creepy as hell! This book makes you feel the hope draining out of the main character as his bizzarre race against time is turning out to be for nothing. Great art and really good writing make this a great book to get behind. Batman Odyssey it ain't!
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Hellboy the Fury 2 by Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo (Dark Horse)
— Wednesday 7-13-11
We didn't review Hellboy on the show this week because, well, we always review Hellboy and thought we'd change things up. But we have to say this is the best book we read all week. The Battle with the Dragon has commenced (but who exactly is the serpent? HB or the beast he battles?!). This is the conclusion to years of Hellboy's wanderings and it seems like anything can happen in the next issue. Rumor has it after this mini-series Hellboy meets a nice gal, settles down, and gets a job at an insurance company! Let's Hope!
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Flashpoint Batman: Knight of Vengeance 2 by Brian Azzarello — Wednesday 7-6-11
Blend great characterization with gasp-inducing plot twists; add eye-popping moody artwork, and you've got yourself a silver bullet! Although some of the dialogue could have been worded slightly better, this off-kilter story arc keeps you guessing. The reveal concerning the identity of the Joker in this universe was the last thing I expected! I'm looking forward to the new DC Universe and it's fun seeing Azzarello unrestrained!
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Marvel Universe vs.Wolverine 1 by Jonathan Mayberry and Lawrence Campbell — Wednesday 6-29-11
I was surprised by how much I missed Lawrence Campbell's art! The previous Marvel Universe vs.the Punisher miniseries continuity exists in this story, which shows how the beginning of the outbreak went down in the X-Universe. Wolverine has to make some tough choices in this first issue, and the mini seems like it'll be a lot of fun!
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Rocketeer Adventures 2 w/a various — Wednesday 6-22-11
This comic gives me the equivalent feeling that makes me wanna tie a towel around my neck, drink some"secret potion" and run around the room assuming my superhero identity! Every creative team is the best, but my fave this issue had to be the Darwyn Cooke "episode." Just really,really great stuff. Couldn't recomend it more highly!
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Godzilla Gangsters and Goliaths 1 by John Layman and Alberto Ponticcelli — Wednesday 6-15-11
The story was fun and enthralling mixing crime drama and B-movie monsters. Ponticcelli's art was super tight, and the wacky story left me eager to get my hands on the next installment of this miniseries!
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Hellboy: The Fury by Mike Mignola and Duncan Fegredo — Wednesday 6-1-11
There were so many great books this week! Let's go with Hellboy! Red's keeping an eye out (heh) for trouble in this first issue as the Noble Dead of England get restored and an old man gets a new lease on life!
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Wolverine 9 by Jason Aaron and Daniel Acuna — Wednesday 5-25-11
This series so far has failed to dissapoint. No weird alternate identities in Madripoor, No Logan settling family domestic issues, No Wolverine discovering a Lupine Female and going off to the mountains to have a quiet animal life together, just exciting character moments and out-there concepts! Aaron is obviously a fan of the 'Ol Cannucklehead,and writes a pretty dark, twisted story. Elements are in play from some of the arcs he started in the last Wolverine series involving Mystique, and it's exciting to see ideas being continued in comic continuity (who was the X Traitor exactly?). Here's hoping Jason Aaron read Wolverine: the Jungle Adventure and brings in that child of Logan to face off and destroy that awful, lame Daken!! Do it!
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Fables 105 by Bill Willingham, Mark Buckingham, Steve Leialoha, and Andrew Pepoy — Wednesday 5-18-11
Preparations are underway for the big showdown between Mr.Dark and the Fables' own Superteam, which is right around the corner. This issue shows also the face-off between father and son — can the impending infanticide be stopped? Mrs.Spratt gets hot, and Bigby gets a hug. The solicit for this issue months ago showed the cover image of an anguished Snow White holding a prone Bigby Wolf. Now we get to find out why Bigby is unconscious! Good stuff Pendeck-o's!!
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Hellboy Being Human Oneshot by Mike Mignola and Richard Corbin — Wednesday 5-11-11
A great flashback tale with HB and Roger made even better by the great Corbin Art!!
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Moon Knight 1 by Brian Michael Bendis and Alex Maleev — Wednesday 5-6-11
Gotta go with Moon Knight 1 for this week's Silver Bullet.Bendis and Maleev found a way to make this re-used character seem new and exciting. They supplied thrills, action, and great character insight while reminding us of a certain fact about Mr.Spector we may have forgotten at the end of the issue! Good stuff — now keep the quality up!!
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Venom 2 by Rick Remender and Tony Moore — Wednesday 4-27-11
This book was great because it takes Venom in a totally different direction! It also doesn't hurt that Tony Moore is one of the greatest artists in the Biz! Good Stuff!
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Fables 104, written by Bill Willingham, pencils by Mark Buckingham, inks by Steve Lealoha — Wednesday 4-20-11
A true delight. The various members of Pinocchio's superteam rehearse and strategize, but ultimately Fly can't keep it all together, and we find out it's a bad time for Bigby to get distracted!
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Fear Itself 1, written by Matt Fraction, illustrated by Stuart Immonen — Wednesday 4-6-11
I must be having a Siege flashback,what with not liking #1 and then completely flipping over the rest of the series. The paralell is that I hated the Book of the Skull, but I really got caught up in this issue. An outstanding job by Mr.Fraction and Mr.Immonen. Has to be seen to be believed!
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Captain America 616 — Wednesday 3-30-11
For $4.99 this was a whopper value! The continuing Winter Soldier installment, a teaser of Steve maybe taking back the togs, writer supreme Cullen Bunn writing a short poignant Cap tale, Artist supreme Paul Grist drawing Cap in a different story featuring Nazi Vampire Baron Blood, as well as a fifth story and one of those nifty one-page origin jobs by the long missing Travis Charest — Wow! What more can you want?! You'd have to be a dolt not to dig this comic — all for just a buck more than you'd usually pay!
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MarineMan 4 by Ian Churchill — Wednesday 3-23-11
There are so many things I like about this book I don't know where to start, and that's why it's my silver bullet of the week. It's a fun read, and since the artist is also Ian Churchill, it's gorgeous to look at. But that's the tip of the iceberg. Ian Churchill cares about sea life and the marine environment, and he's knowledgeable about it, but better yet, he's teaching us to know and care about it. The story is layered so there's something for readers of all ages. And did I mention the tasty extras? Churchill includes a feature called The Oceanauts that spotlights 2 real-world marine heroes this month, and a letters page that I love reading. MarineMan is everything I want in a comic.
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The Grim Ghost 1 words by Tony Isabella and Steven Susco, art by Kelley Jones — Wednesday 3-16-11
Right out of the gate this issue caught my eye! I judged it and found it to be worthwhile. Sure, crusaders in a Limbo-like realm may seem to be of limited scope, but for a guy like me who's a horror fan, this was a winner! From the great characterization by Isabella to the spellbinding artwork by Kelley Jones (who's looking a bit Pierson-ish if you ask me!). This book was worth the scratch! Keep it up Atlas!!
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Venom 1 by Rick Remender, art by Tony Moore — Wednesday 3-9-11
Venom is the comic for guys who like action! Supporters of Joe the Barbarian or Daytripper might not "get" this comic. There's no weepy bullcrap — instead there's intrigue,straight out adventure — great writing and tremendous art! Flash can remain Venom forever as far as I'm concerned — just as long as Remender and Moore are driving this book!
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Astonishing X-Men 36 by Daniel Way, art by Jason Pearson —Wednesday 2-23-11
An outstanding book that showcases Wolverine's natural inclination to protect and befriend the meek and helpless. Hisako just about has the qualifications for the new sidekick position to Logan. Kitty, Jubilee, now Armor? Also JASON PEARSON DRAWS WOLVERINE!!!!! Whew! I don't regularly buy this title, but you can bet as long as Jason "Body Bags" Pearson is doing the art-I'm in!
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Amazing Spiderman 654.1 by Dan Slott, Humberto Ramos, and Carlos Caselli —Wednesday 2-16-11
Hey—Have you noticed lately Spidey's $3.99? Has anyone been bothered by the changing roster of artists and writers to the point that it's caused Spidey to become inconsistant and whiney? And who cares if Aunt May's been getting it on a regular basis, this issue was effectively a zero issue to the upcoming new Venom series by Remender and Moore. Super fun while setting up stories for that title. Can't wait to see what this series is going to be like!
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Wolverine 5.1 by Jason Aaron and Jefte Palo—Wednesday 2-9-11
It's Logan's birthday and the assorted great character moments make this issue an instant classic—it reminded me a bit of the Rick Jones bachelor party issue of the Incredible Hulk. A really fun issue! I read it twice!
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Hellboy The Sleeping and The Dead 2 by Mike Mignola and Scott Hampton—Wednesday 2-2-11
I picked this book because—well—Hellboy is a great character and the art was fantastic. I liked the introduction of the schlubby BPRD agents, and I've never witnessed a vampire done in exactly like the lead vamp was. A lot of fun for $3.50—wish I could say the same about Spider Man!!
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X-Men #7 by Victor Gischler, Chris Bachalo, and Tim Townsend,—Wednesday 1-27-11
Hey! Was that an X-Men symbol shining in the night? Media-friendly X-Men attempt to check out some strange goings-on in the sewers, and two Avengers wind up buttin' heads. I think Bachalo is a great X-Men artist. I also dig his work on Spidey (like the recent "Shed" storyline) and I'll take his rendition of Spider-Man any time! Combine the two and it's win-win! Hey! Was that Wolvie sporting some Cable-like belt and equipment pouches? Altogether a fantastic issue!
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Wolverine 5 by Jason Aaron Renato Guedes and Jason LaTour—Wednesday 1-19-11
Our Canadian mutant friend has his hands full this issue what with renouncing leadership of Hell, chopping Sabretooth to pieces, gashing his Pappy across the face with what's left of his claws, and climbing out of the pit of Hell and all. Also we get a cool backup showing how Logan got fooled (again) into the ritual that sent his soul to Hades (some call it Hell-I call it Hades Ahumm). Let's just say the art work by both of the aformentioned talented gentlemen was scrumtrulescent, and it'll be interesting to find out who it was who was occupying Logan's body while his soul was in Hell. No doubt this Red Right Hand has more tricks up its sleeve!
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BPRD Hell on Earth: Gods 1 by Mike Mignola, John Arcudi and Guy Davis—Wednesday 1-12-11
BPRD is always a lot of fun and this arc took off like a shot! I think Fenix is a great new character and I'm looking forward to the next issue!
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Ultimate Captain America 1 by Jason Aaron,Ron Garney—Wednesday 1-5-11
We had an annual with no series to support it, and now I'm happy to report we have a great miniseries! Ultimate Cap doesn't suffer nonsense—this book was fun and the antagonists reveal was pretty interesting. I'm really looking forward to issue 2!
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Incognito: Bad Influences 2, written by Ed Brubaker; art by Shawn Phillips—Wednesday 12-29-10
Ed Brubaker and Shawn Phillips tell another intriguing chapter of the Incognito Universe.Great characterization and just plain great characters make this the best book in my opinion this week.
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Doc Macabre 1, written by Steve Niles; art by Bernie Wrightson—Wednesday 12-15-10
I was surprised Niles pulled off such a campy, pulpy, fun story. The protagonist is a super-intellegent lad who uses technology to combat the forces of Evil—what more could you ask for?! The story zipped by and left me anticipating the next chapter. It had a Mr.Monster/Doc Frankenstein kind of thing happening. I'm not a reader of too many IDW titles, but I was glad I tried this book!
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Let Me In: Crossroads 1 written by Marc Andreyko and art by Patric Reynolds—Wednesday 12-8-10
I'll admit it. I love horror flicks. Nothing like a good scare to get the blood pumping. Sadly in my jaded adulthood, I've seen it all. I can predict where most "scary movies" are going 5 minutes in—but not having seen Let The Right One In and Let Me In, this was my introduction to this mythos. It was moody, frightening and dark as hell! Patric Reynolds had a cool style that was unique and cinematic.Marc Andreyko told a tense, desperate story that was atmospheric and compelling. What I'm saying is that this book surprised me—Totally worth a Silver Bullet!
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American Vampire 9, written by Scott Snyder and art by Rafael Albuquerque—Thursday 12-2-10
Don't make the mistake of thinking that Skinner Sweet's a wacky anti-hero—this guy's a stone cold Mofo! We get a lot of revelations in this chapter that ties up a lot of plot points (Hey—we finally find out what's up with that baby in the backpack!). Snyder and Albuquerque have a synergy on this title that works really well. I can't imagine any different creators working on this book! Any issue's well worth the read!
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Detective Comics 871, story by Scott Snyder, art by Jock—Wednesday 11-24-10
Admittedly, I'm not that big a fan of Jock's art, but the characterization of Dick Grayson and Jim Gordon in this book was spot on, and I see that Scott Snyder is an upcoming force to be reckoned with. Is this guy a DC exclusive? Hey Marvel—scoop this guy up! I plan to keep picking up this book as long as Snyder stays on it!
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Batman Inc 1, story by Grant Morrison, art by Yanick Paquette—Wednesday 11-17-10
Yeah—I'm as surprised as you are. I Loved Lord Death Man, and the trap left for Jiro and his girlfriend kicked ass. I'll leave it to Morrison to pooch this one up by next issue, but this issue DELIVERED!!!! Oh yeah—Yanick Paquette draws real good. If you check it out, I think you're gonna like it!
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New Avengers 6, Story by Brian Michael Bendis, Art by Stuart Immonen, Wade Von Grawbadger—Wednesday 11-10-10
An Avenger dies, Wolverine goes magically berserker, the Eye of Agamoto is nowhere to be found—all H-E-double toothpicks breaks loose! Buckle up fanboys and fangirls—this roller coaster is starting to approach warp speed!
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Bullseye: The Perfect Game, Story by Charlie Huston, Art by Shawn Martinbrough—Wednesday 11-03-10
Having always been a great big fan of Bullseye in the dark blue and white uniform, I wasn't sure what Houston was gonna do with him. Not being a big sports fan, I found myself quite pleased with this issues set up. I mean—the guy can kill you with a playing card or a paper clip—what's he gonna do as a Major League pitcher?! I had a couple good laughs and an "Oh,Man!" moment with this comic—hence the Silver Bullet!
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Fantastic Four 584 by Jonathan Hickman and Steve Epting—Wednesday 10-27-10
With the second chapter to "3", this book is picking up speed like a great big thunderball. Last issue The Silver Surfer discovered the corpse of future Galactus we saw in Mark Millar's run—so this issue he ran and got daddy! Sue's gonna try to mediate between the more modern, human-looking Atlanteans and the more fish-like, recently discovered ancient Atlanteans. Also, Johnny acts uncharacteristically selfless, palling around with a depowered Ben Grimm. I like where this arc is going!
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Dr.Solar: Man of the Atom 3 by Jim Shooter and Roger Robinson—Wednesday 10-20-10
The happy-go-lucky vibe turns decidedly darker this issue as Solar's powers are tested in new ways. Because he's jealous and lovesick,he ignores obvious trouble with Whitmore Pickeral (who himself has to deal with being a forced Cuckold to a Sumerian God!), and puts off important responsibilities which cause him a triple handful of trouble by issues' end. I like this incarnation of Solar a lot and anticipate great things for this series!
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New Avengers 5 by Brian Michael Bendis, David Finch, and Danny Miki—Wednesday 10-13-10
New Avengers had it all, including a logical reason why the guy who wants the eye was NOT the Ancient One. Just who is it that wants the Eye of Agamoto? Lame excuses by Hawkeye and a New Avengers mashup—the hits just keep coming! This book made me laugh and look forward to the next installment.
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Wolverine 2 by Jason Aaron and Renato Guedes and José Wilson Magalhaes—Wednesday 10-6-10
Hey—Wolverine's stuck in Hell, while his possessed body is walking around killing his loved ones. That's gonna be a tough one to explain around the upcoming Holidays. Renato Guedes and José are making this book look great and Jason Aaron's keeping it interesting. That's right—Puck=Interesting!
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Action Comics 893—Wednesday 9-29-10
I'll admit that I've always found the villian to be a bit more interesting than the hero, and I've been a fan of Paul Cornell for some time. This issue clinched it for this week, as something happened this isssue that may herald a new age of DC. The story was great, the art was fantastic, and I felt that a lot happened this issue what with the appearence of Death and Chloe Sullivan in the mainstream DCU.I got my $3.99 out of it for sure! Sandman fans sitting on the fence waiting for next issue are gonna be kicking themselves if they missed this one!
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Fantastic Four 583—Wednesday 9-22-10
So Doom wants to abdicate his throne to his child clone Kristoff AND Valeria Richards makes a deal with him behind her Dad's back?! Ooooooh! Somebody's gonna get in trouble. Also—Ben gets some gas and Norrin Radd utters some Corporate speak.The wheel begins to roll in this issue!
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X-Men 3—Thursday 9-08-10
Couldn't not award Silver Bullet status to X Men 3 (Victor Gischler, Paco Medina, and Juan Vlasco, Marvel $2.99) as it was truly an experiment in ass-kickery. I think it was pretty evident that the "one" Xeres alluded to wasn't Ice Man. Preview images have shown Wolvie with the fangs so it was pretty much a matter of how he was gonna end up that way. I'm liking the characterization by Gischler and how this story so far is free of the history of the other two titles. Don't forget that Wolvie's mutant ability is his massive healing factor and—oh,yeah—Dracula's back and wants to party!
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Origins of Marvel Comics: The X-Men—Wednesday 9-01-10
What can I say? Although we didn't talk about it on the show, I chose Origins of Marvel Comics: The X-Men as my Silver Bullet O' the Week!! Another neat-o collection of one page origin, history, and power identifications of various—but not all—X Universe characters. You'll find hero and villian alike in this companion to the previous Marvel Origins book, but these are strictly Mutants! Good going Marvel! Make your properties accessible to brand new readers who want to know who that guy is that turns to solid metal. Meanwhile, all those one-page origins from 52 for DC just sit there and gather dust....sigh......Oh well. Get one of these for your nephew, cousin or little brother—this'll get 'em hooked fo' sho'!
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Avengers 4—Wednesday 8-25-10
Hey!D'ja get a load of that Ultron on that double page splash? What's with Volstagg weilding a ray gun? Anyway—more fun (along with some patented clunky BMB dialog-but-oh well...) I wanna see what's gonna happen with both teams next issue for sure! $3.99, sure—but—I can't believe everybody's not reading this title!
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Marvel Universe vs. the Punisher 2 by Jonathan Maberry (writer) and Goran Parlov (artist)—Wednesday 8-18-10
I like Punisher. He has guns and shoots people. I like Marvel Zombies. They eat people. Although not exactly Zombies—this tale is a rocker so far with the twisted versions of M.U. well-knowns and THE Frank Castle as the Omega Man. There's a lot of meat to the story and the art by Goran Parlov is Super Yummy Terrif!!!! Looking forward to the next issue of this series for sure!!!!!
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X-Men 2—Wednesday 8-11-10
Hey! What can I say? I'm a sucker for a fastball special!! The plot thickens as Blade joins the fray! Medina is killin' it, and Gischler is keeping it going with the concept of reviving Dracula to create a "breaker" between the vampires and the rest of the world. The X-Club's science vs. the arcane Occult makes for great conflict, and since I'm being led by the nose jonesing for the next chapter, it's no contest that this is my Best book in the stack (of course not saying there wasn't a lot of great books this week!)!
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The Marvel Universe vs. the Punisher 1—Wednesday 8-4-10
At first I thought this was gonna be Punisher vs.Marvel Zombies,but already this tale is much more. I'm curious as to who this "Zero" is and how the spiders fit into it. Goran Parlov's art is the perfect accompaniment to this dark tale! A+ so far!
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Batman the Widening Gyre 6—Wednesday 7-28-10
Sure—we all thought there was something off about this Baphomet guy, but since Kevin Smith had already created a cool new villian, I just guessed this Baphomet was his attempt at a new Hero. Oh man—I so did not see the obvious connection until Smith wanted me to! Great storytelling and neat continuity tie-ins. I'll be eagerly anticipating the next arc in this storyline! The highest recomendation!
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Atlas 3—Wednesday 7-21-10
It's a shame that this series is ending with issue 5, because I totally dig it. This issue was no exception to the series goodness. It was hella dark, and who doesn't love dark? I mean, Venus gets shot from behind with an arrow, and her future doesn't look good. Namora gets possessed by aliens and turns against the rest of the team, which is already fighting a whole city of 3-eyed aliens—our old buddies Gorilla Man and Jimmy Woo are in serious trouble. There's a cool backup feature that gives background on M-11. The art team outdid themselves with this issue—GREAT STUFF!
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Comic Book Guy: The Comic Book 1—Wednesday 7-14-10
I surprised myself with this one! I had to give it up for Bongo's Comic Book Guy: The Comic Book # 1 by Ian Boothby, John Delaney, and Dan Davis if not just for the familiar stereotypes you'll see at your LCS, the ridiculous situations, and the spot on characterization and art style, then for the straight up belly laughs I got for $3.99 when the pony-tailed douchebag got stuck in the butt with a sword and screeches "Crom"! Funny Stuff! And Hey! For $3.99 you get ALL the variant covers!
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Avengers Children's Crusade 1—Thursday 7-8-10
Hadda' give it to the 'ol Avengers Children's Crusade #1 by Alan Heinburg and Juan Vlasco and (Young Gun) Jim Cheung on the basis of the splendifirously bee-yootiful art. Sure there were some squirmy moments what with the boy love and all—but seeing renditions of Avengers by Jimmy C and his lil' buddy Juan were awe-inspiring. Also the bittersweet hope of Cassie Lang and the whooping gasp of the last page cliffhanger were the last nails in the coffin as far as Silver bullet election goes. Glad to see the original team of creators working on their original property, and I'm in! But homophobes beware! There is man love looming.
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Flash 3—Wednesday 6-30-10
Although I was tempted to elect the Invincible Iron Man Annual # 1, The Flash # 3 by Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul was a bunch of fun! The many plotlines running through the story so far are interesting and I'm looking forward to what may happen according to some innuendo from the future Top. Frankie Manapul's art is unique for sure—I'm like—what L.E.G.I.O.N.?!—and Mr.Johns' writing is up to it's usual standards. If you've always kinda' liked the Flash—but for whatever reason you never really had a great experience with him in his solo title—Barry's back! You can start fresh (sort of) —give this a try!! I'm an extremely harsh judge on weekly books, and this title is 3 for 3 so far.
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Amazing Spider-Man 635—Wednesday 6-23-10
Had to give it up for the ol' Amazing Spidey #635 by Joe Kelly, Michael Lark, Stefano Gaudiano, J.M DeMatteis, Max Fiumara, and others. It was a fat book for the $3.99 (it's nice to get your dollars' worth,right kiddies?), and the dark tone fit the title of this arc so far perfectly. I won't spoil it here if you haven't read it yet but this issue contains another resurection of a character once dead. A whole lot of fun and some great adventure, a twist I didn't see coming and an old switcheroo! I'm loving the Grim Hunt so far—this has been done well and I look forward to more quality Spidey from Kelly, Lark and company!
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New Avengers 1—Wednesday 6-16-10
Let's go down the list—Gigantic Son of Satan? Check! Tony Stark selling Real Estate? Check! Iron Fist's Fanny Pack? Check! The return of the classic Avengers Mansion? Check! The Thing getting a pep talk? Check! Wowee! This was some first issue, I'll tell you.Von Grawbadger's inks over Immonen look super sleek, and we get off to a pretty great start. Let's hope only #1 is $3.99 and this title goes back to $2.99 with #2. This book was fun and made me laugh!
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Punisher Max 8—Wednesday 6-9-10
I never want this Punisher Max to end! I don't know what I love more—the tough-as-hell Frank Castle Punisher, or the bat@!#% crazy Bullseye. This issue, Bullseye continues his "motivation" exploration into Frank Castle's state of being and Frank does some amateur surgery and struggles with what he should never do, but very badly wants to! Prime Punny!
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Red Hood Lost Days 1—Thursday 6-3-10
This book caught me by surprise. I could never really get behind Jason Todd as Robin and I voted to off him, but when he was resurected I was intrigued. Since then his character has been a bit inneffectively handled. This book seeks to slake my desire for the missing parts of Jason Todd's recovery from corpse to Red Hood. Ra's had eyebrows but I found everything else about this book very pleasing. Judd Winnick has taken great care with Jason whenever he's worked with him in the past (Batman Annual 25) and continues to flesh him out in interesting ways. Never before have we seen Talia so vulnerable and yet so strong—defying her father in hopes of securing Batman's affection. A well-done first issue that makes me look forward to the next part of the story!
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Amazing Spider-Man Annual 37—Wednesday 5-26-10
Amazing Spider-Man Annual 37 by Karl Kessel,Kurt Busiek,Paulo Siqueira,and Pat Oliffe knocked my glasses off! The first story is the one that made me select this book. Not only does it tell the tale of the first meeting between Cap and Spidey, but the breathtaking art by Siquera is a sight to behold! We get action, clever antagonists, and great character moments. I'd love to see this artist do more Spidey—Hell—more anything! Check this one out!
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Origins of Marvel Comics 1—Wednesday 5-19-10
This really satisfied a heretofore unknown yearning for just such origin stories in just the right format! I didn't even realize I wanted something like this! So if a youngster asks "How is a god like Thor, Ares, or Hercules involved in the Marvel Universe—you just break this lil' sweetie out and say to the lad or lass "Read up and find out for yourself!" I found this book nostalgicly charming and would love to see more of these! Hey DC! Get off your can and collect those one-page origins from 52!!!
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The New Avengers Finale—Wednesday 5-12-10
It was tough to choose between The New Avengers Finale and a few other books this week (I'm looking at you Siege #4), but the great art by Hitch and the great tale told by Bendis clinched it for me. I'm looking forward to some of these Avengers books and this Finale was a fitting jimping off point for those who have become weary of Bendis. Good stuff!
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Batman and Robin 12—Wednesday 5-5-10
Cue the Batman TV show theme—this month's issue of Batman and Robin at last answered the question regarding the Identity of Oberon Sexton—The Gravedigger! The fantastic art by Andy Clark and Scott Hanna was D-Lux! We're moving toward the resolution of the whole missing Bruce Wayne ordeal and I find myself asking—Why didn't DC pull off a great Dick Grayson Batman adventure like this when Bane broke Batman's back? Azrael? Guh! Nevertheless—great issue—the best of the week!
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Ultimate Avengers 2 #1—Wednesday 4-28-10
Super violent and action-packed throughout! Even though it had a bit of the quick read through that Millar is well known for, the portrayal of Frank Castle was everything I wanted it to be! I remember the introduction of Ultimate Punisher in the 2-part Ultimate Marvel Team Up. I was left feeling violated and ashamed—Not so here. With the black ops aspect and the Captain Punisher supersuit I squealed with laughter and joy! I'm definitely in for Number 2!
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American Vampire #2—Wednesday 4-21-10
Maybe I just like Stephen King, but I predict this American Vampire by Scott Snyder, King, and Rafael Albuquerque is a vampire comic that's gonna stick! It offers something different than the romantic angle that's been done to death, and explores different avenues than those in Anita Blake or Buffy. So far I'm interested to see what's going to befall the Daisy and Skinner Sweet characters. Vampire Evolution—I'm all for it!
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The Flash #1—Wednesday 4-14-10
Fuh-Lashh!! Ahh-Ahhhhh! (sorry). Wow, finishing that issue I was straight up wistful! It's like—the story combined with the art did everything I wanted it to do,and I think the comic likes me and I can't wait to see it again!! It's all I can think about!!! Dear sweet baby Jeebus—I think I'm in love with this comic!! Anyway—Barry gets up to speed (*cough*) keeping Rogues in check and acclimating back into the forensics lab—he gets a case involving a body dressed up as a Mirror Master look-a-like that materialized out of nowhere at the edge of the park. Investigating another burst of light—the Flash meets up with a group of future Rogue lookalkes.Commander Cold tells Flash"You are under arrest for the murder of the Mirror Monarch! "Whaaaaaa??!!!! Good stuff lil' comic babies—Fo'sho'!
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Flash Secret Files and Origins 2010 1—Wednesday 4-07-10
So I'm a Barry Allen fan—what can I say? This issue provides a nice stepping stone between Rebirth, Blackest Night, and the upcoming new ongoing for the fastest man alive! It's a great tale of looking to the future and things to come for Barry and the fast gang illustrated by Scott Kollins,and a bunch of Flash Facts, er, character bio files. Really looking forward to the Flash!
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Blackest Night 8—Wednesday 3-31-10
It seems the whole Blackest Night event has been going on for well over a year and this issue's payoffs sure were great! I mean, really, could it have been any other book? We get some guys back—but not at all who you'd expect. I hope Brightest Day and Johns' upcoming Flash are as fun and interesting as this series turned out. Job well done, my DC lads. That'll do pig, That'll do.
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Uncanny X-Men 522—Wednesday 3-24-10
It's payoff time as Scott issues some orders and the X Club try out an idea. Reed Richards admonishes Dr.Nemisis, and the beautiful continuity created by Joss Wheedon comes undone—but in a good way. Don't feel bad Joss—it only took John Byrne 3 weeks to F over Kevin Smith on the continuity he established with Mysterio in D.D.—what are you gonna do?. The happy event the X-Men experience doesn't come without strings, but everyone gets to catch their collective breath—just in time for something called "Second Coming," whatever that is.
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Siege 3—Wednesday 3-17-10
Finally—Normie gets some come-uppance! The White House looks on like scared little babies while "Mommy" Captain America and crew spank ass! Hey—who's that behind that classic armor? Ooops—who's that Lobster scorpion,lookin guy? Really fun, with no "preview" reprint crap. Book Four looks to be interesting!
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Lockjaw and the Pet Avengers: Unleashed 1—Wednesday 3-10-10
What can I say-that male dog named Ms.Lion is a crack up! I like some cute funny animals, what can I say? If you think it's beneath you, I would recomend you take a look. It's worth it.
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Amazing Spider-Man #623—Wednesday 3-3-10
Paul Azaceta's tasty art, a Vulture who vomits acid—what's not to love?
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Black Lantern Green Arrow #30—Wednesday 2-24-10
On the strength of the outstanding art done on this issue, I'm picking Black Lantern Green Arrow #30! I usually think of Ollie Queen as a Z level hero (as I'm not much of a fan), but this issue with its hurtful dialogue and tremendous visuals clinched it for me as the Silver Bullet of the week. I'll be keeping an eye J.T. Krul, and I can't wait to see what Neves, José, and Cifuentes will be doing next.
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Uncanny X-Men 521—Wednesday 2-17-10
Not only did we get some tasty Fraction storytelling, add that to the sweet Greg Land art. Combine it with some tantalizing cliffhangery hand rubbing, with Magneto "looking for something" and exerting himself to such a degree that he's sitting stock still for, like, hours on end—yet sweating profusely and causing his nose to bleed—Sweet!! Hmm...I wonder if that has anything to do with that last page reveal, and what's Whedon think about all that? Oh yeah—the techno-villian John Sublime calls Fantomex a "Faux French Fop..."—so take that!!!
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Punisher Max #4—Wednesday 2-10-10
Debonair Darin picked this due to the strength of the "They Live" style fight between Frank and the Mennonite. We also get to see the assension of Fisk to the throne of Kingpin of Crime in New York City. Great cliffhanger endings by Jason Aaron and beautifully violent images supplied by Steve Dillon make this a "must read" on a monthly basis! Now if we could convince Marvel to drop that cover price...
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Siege #2—Wednesday 2-3-10
On the strength of payoff alone, this book was the Winner! Dark Avenger against Dark Avenger, Cap assembles a team, and Norm's about to get a spanking. Olivier Coipel made the book great!!! Siege #1? Not so good. Siege#2? Quite the opposite. *cough*Ironmanarmourinthebriefcasestevebecomesironmaninirinmanreborn*cough*
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Walking Dead 69—Wednesday 1-27-10
You have to admit—besides the city rescue—there really was a minimum of action this issue. You could even say that driving to a destination doesn't provide much in the way of story. But in this issue something happened in this comic that I didn't think I was going to see again. I think in that last panel—the expression on Rick's face—we see that he's allowing himself the tiniest sliver of hope. Which we all know by now can be pretty damn deadly. Rick cracked a smile and as a result—I did too! Good one Bobby K!
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Wolverine Weapon X 9—Wednesday 1-20-10
With there being so many great comics this week, it was tough to pick just one—but pick one we did!! Wolverine Weapon X # 9 by Jason Aaron and Yanick Paquette dominated with snappy patter ("...I'll be there!"), tasty visuals ("Whose hair is this in my mouth?"), and the conclusion to the 4-part "Insane in the Brain" story arc. Mr. Aaron created a great villian in the disturbing Dr.Rot, and hopefully we'll get to see this character introduced into other M.U. books. He'd be great coming up against Moon Knight, or Punisher, or any magical- or horror-themed characters in the 616, huh? Ghost Rider, anyone? .Although Brubaker still hauls his weight, Aaron and Remender are approaching favored status more and more over Bendis, Johns, Slott, and Kirkman. Keep on kicking tail you guys!!
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Invincible Iron Man 22—Wednesday 1-13-10
Although I'm not a regular reader of this title, this issue of Invincible Iron Man by Mann Fraction and Sal Larocca enthralled me the most this week. I wanna be ready when Cap takes over this Iron Man armour! Fraction is no slouch with the characterization, and Larocca is doing fantastic work! Well worth the read through!
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Punisher Max:Get Castle Oneshot—Wednesday 1-6-10
This week's Silver Bullet is the Punisher Max: Get Castle Oneshot by Williams,Campbell and Loughridge. Frank has to come to terms with his hesitation while dispatching a thug who's pleading "I've got kids!" To clear his mind and find himself, he goes to Wales and kills some people there. So does he hesitate killing a corrupt SAS heroin ring? No. No, he doesn't.—Whew—.Things seem to be back to normal. It was nice to return to the Max universe, and both story and art were aces—hence the Silver Bullet.
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Powers # 2—Wednesday 12-23-09
Hey it's an absolute 180 as the dialogue alone shoots this issue to Silver Bullet status! What was that they wanted to do to those Nazis? Not sure what the last panel meant though—are we to assume the Bustemante lady who answered the door was bumping uglies with the late Z? Huh? Anyway—anyway,as sucky as issue 1 was, this book was that much greater (but I could still do without Walker's girlfriend's subplot).
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Incorruptible #1—Wednesday 12-16-09
Written by Mark Waid and drawn by Jean Diaz. Hey this book rocked! From the Punisher-like gang leader, Max Damage, to the kidnapped crooked police lieutenant, it was a load of fun. Hey Jean Diaz and Belardino Brabo render quite excellent! The pacing was well-timed and the reveal at the end made me laugh...A lot of fun!
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New Avengers Annual #3—Wednesday 12-9-09
If not for a shipping error with last week's Dark Avengers Annual #1, this book would have provided an explosive ending to Dark Reign and a dynamic beginning to Siege, with the reappearance of Captain America. Presumably the events of this book take place after Captain America Reborn #6. Mayhew's art has never been better.
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Siege the Cabal—Thursday 12-3-09 (delayed shipping because of Thanksgiving)
Sure—I'll admit I've been burned out with event fatigue, but this book gave a little payoff (finally) in the form of Doo's departure and Osborn's war declaration. Oh why oh why couldn't the Silver Bullet have been Dark Avengers Annual #1? Stupid Marvel Editorial Cluster%$!@'s. Also we get a preview of Siege #1 in this Issue. Surprisingly Primo stuff me Droogies!
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Blackest Night #5—Wednesday 11-25-09
I think the last time I was this excited about picking up a DC book on Wednsday was during the Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee run on Batman during the Hush storyline. A lot of fans have been asking when the inevitable appearance of a Black Lantern Batman was gonna go down. Also what about all the resurrected heroes who've died and are now amongst us again? This story brings both questions and more questions about these two items both in the same issue! Whew—somebody get me a towel!!!
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Irredeemable 8—Wednesday 11-18-09
Things come a little more into focus in this tale masterfully crafted by Mark Waid and Peter Krause. (Hey Quitely and Dini—these creators have consistantly been on this title for a whole 8 issues so far—contact them for tips on how you both might achieve that!) This story takes darker and more twisted turns as it goes along. This issue reveals that the Plutonian's shift is prompted by more sinister motivations then merely being overly sensitive. Bizzare ending. Makes me very eager to get the next issue (much like we're jonesing for Adventure Comics #5, right?)
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Daredevil 502—Wednesday 11-11-09
Super sweet action by Andy Diggle! The characterization of Fisk is so sharp!Matt continues his charade and the true fate of Master Izo is revealed (he's thirsty). Is it possible Matt might want to retain hand leadership and not be so hasty to destroy them from within? One would think DD would be about doing that already, hurm? De la Torre delivers mood by the truckload and Ribic's covers are tasty! OK guys you sold me—I won't be worried that on Wednsdays when DD comes out it wont be a bad issue—a fact I could rely upon with its previous creative teams.Now don't crap out on me—and stay for a while.
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Captain America Reborn #4—Wednesday 11-4-09
Ed Brubaker and Brian Hitch pull off a "Wow!" moment! They had me fooled into thinking the device all the villians were working on was a time machine, when it was a different contraption altogether. Masterful cliff hangers and outstanding visuals make this series so far an absolute must-read. Cap Reborn #4 more than qualifies as this week's silver bullet.
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Dark Reign-The List: Punisher (Oneshot)—Wednesday 10-28-09
 Good Goobity Goo!This book's the Shiggle!! Normie pulls out all the stops to destroy Frank Castle,and when a crap load of missle fire and a swarm of H.A.M.M.E.R. agents on "Goblinlike" gliders can't do the job, Daken steps in to settle the score. Gashes from Dark Wolverine's claws and a hole blown through his leg don't stop Frank from giving as good as he gets (even though poop gets in his leg wound while he tangles with Daken in the NYC sewer system)! Bloodshed in the sewers leads to explosive mayhem on the rooftops. Surrounded by H.A.M.M.E.R. agents and a final sowdown with a berserk Dark Wolvie, Frank goes to pieces. In this tale by Rick Remender, John Jr, and Klaus Jansen, Frank all but admits that the motive for his punishment of the guilty being the death of his family may just be after all this time what this story is titled: A Good Lie. Outstanding! It'll be tough for Frank to just get some ordinary medical help and get back to his war after this episode. The upcoming storyarc in the regular Punisher title by Remender and the awesome Tony Moore is called "Frankencastle", so you do the math. A must read.
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X-Men Legacy#228—Wednesday 10-21-09
There is no love for this title (case in point:a few issues back it occured that Rogue finally came to be able to control her powers and X fans have been waiting how long for that? Like since she first came to Xavier for help right? Remember the hoopla that accompanied Rogue finally being able to control her power absorption? Me either!! How many people can be reading this title for that detail to escape notice-sheesh!). The storytelling by Mike Carey is consistant and strong, but the art of Daniel Acuna elevated this book this week above all other books for me. Besides,Emplate's back from Generation X! Monet on X-Factor should be worried. Hey—anyway, I still love you X-Men Legacy!
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Marvels Project#3—Wednesday 10-14-09
Brubaker and Epting continue to deliver with this origin of the early Marvel Universe. Azzerello is slated to do a DC version called First Wave. Brian's a master storyteller, but I hope his tale is as cool as this one is shaping up to be.
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Daredevil#501—Wednesday 10-7-09
Andy Diggle takes over from Brubaker, and based on the strength of The List as well as this issue, it looks like this book is staying with the family that has come before it. I predict great things under this team of Diggle and De la Torre!
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Punisher Annual #1—Wednesday of 9-30-09
Man, oh man! I've been waiting for this book and I didn't even know it! Ennis's stuff wasn't terrible. Fraction's stuff ran out of gas, and Gischler's arc was pretty good, but Remender is getting it right! FINALLY—Frank in the 616 behaving like the Punisher! Not a survivalist, not a mercenary, but a deadly vigilante doing what it takes to defeat crime. It's great to see Jason Pearson doing something other than covers, one-shots, or yet another reprint of Body Bags, and he draws Frank the way the Punisher should look. Get Jason on the regular book ongoing!
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Giant Size Wolverine:Old Man Logan #1—Wednesday 9-23-09
Millar. McNivan.'Nuff said. But it's still way not cool to drag your butt to get that issue out though, fellas. At least it never reached a Smith-like time lag like The Target—thanks for that anyway. Hey Marvel—why not Giant Size Wolverine #2? I mean, after all, "Old Man Logan" took place in the Regular Wolverine title,and there was already a Giant Size Wolverine #1 (Remember? Wolvie whups booty on a Hydra Robot, some red necks, and an angry lady Tumor monster. Creators Lapham and Aja, called The House of Blood and Sorrow, and the book wasn't called Giant Size Wolverine: The House of Blood and Sorrow #1. I'm confused.)
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