Batman and Robin #1 Writer: Grant Morrison Artist: Frank Quitely
Really, are you surprised that this is here? What’s shocking to me was how accessible this comic would be to first time readers. Everything makes sense (which is saying something in a Morrison comic), the back story you need is explained, and it’s pretty. After an awkward page that makes Robin look like a weird old man, everything else was good to go. Enjoyable and easy to access for anyone wanting to jump onboard the latest bat-styles.
The Boys #31 Writer: Garth Ennis Artist: Carlos Ezquerra
Worth noting because it’s the beginning of a new story arc. Robertson takes a break, but Ezquerra is a perfectly fine stand in. Good excessive violence as always and the same solid plot structure as ever. I’m wondering if the twist at the end is legit; because if it is, I’m slightly disappointed that it was so simple and abrupt. Maybe I’m just getting old, but I wanted more, dammit!
Solomon Grundy #4 (of 7) Writer/Artist: Scott Kolins
This title is slowly losing me, but I just don’t want to go. I really like Kolins art, even though it’s always sketchy and overdrawn. The plot is a little bit thin, but it’s his first time writing, so I’m giving him the benefit of the doubt. What’s strange is that when he draws characters like Phantom Stranger and Amazo, they are completely clean and look really nice. Other than that, everything is kind of awkward. Not sure if he’s rushed or what, but overall this is becoming a disappointment.
Seaguy: Slaves of Mickey Eye #3 (of 3) Writer: Grant Morrison Artist: Cameron Stewart
The end of the latest Seaguy mini-series and it’s just as weird as you would expect. I really enjoyed it for no reason in particular. The strange works well, even being coherent at most point. Cameron Stewart’s art is beautiful and I wish I knew more stuff that he has done. Seaguy is always a strange Morrison-project, and supposedly there is one more mini to come, so look forward to that in about 6 years or so?
Jonah Hex #44 Writers: Justin Gray & Jimmy Palmiotti Artist: Cristiano Cucina
Forty four issues in, and this is the first time they have done a six-issue arc. It’s the same western goodness you’ve come to expect from this title. Perfect for anybody who wants to read about a crazy bounty hunter in the Wild West. It’s strange that they decided to go for a huge arc, since they’ve never done it before, but hopefully they can pull it off, and this is a solid start.
Dark Avengers #5 Writer: Brian Michael Bendis Artist: Mike Deodato
This has been a really slow first five issues, but I’m still fairly attached to this book. Deodato gets to really show how well he can draw Tommy Lee Jones because we have a lot of Norman Osborn stuff going on. They have managed to make the Sentry kind of interesting, which is more than normal. Hopefully something will actually happen that really matters soon. So far, the character bits, which are always a strong point for Bendis, have been the strongest and best part, but I just want something relevant from this soon.
Conan the Cimmerian #11 Writer: Tim Truman Artist: Tomas Giorello
Ever since they stopped having Richard Corben do short stories in the middle, I was afraid I would lose interest, but Truman is writing a solid story. It also seems that Giorello has cleaned up a little bit, so I’m enjoying this overall. It comes off as pretty generic Conan stuff, stealing the woman from the rich man, fighting a God-like man with strange powers, and getting ready for a huge battle. If you already know you like Conan, or think you might want to try it, this is the book for you.
Exiles #3 Writer: Jeff Parker Artist: Salva Espin
The problem with the old Exiles book, aside from the fact that Claremont got his hands on it, was that it became too generic. It became “go to world, solve problem, leave”. It seems to have changed now. Parker is trying new things with the people in the alternate realities, and this has been an enjoyable first three issues. If you want to catch up, it’s easy, cause we have all of them, and the first three issues are one complete story!
The Mighty #5 Writer: Peter J. Tomasi Artist: Keith Champagne
Much like Mark Waid’s Irredeemable (which we sold out of, which is a review in itself), this is about the perfect superhero going horribly wrong. It’s been fun with the mystery behind it all. We don’t know exactly what’s going on with Alpha one, but it’s all coming to a head. I wonder how long this series will go, and I’m enjoying where it’s taking me right now.
Muppet show #3 (of 4) Writer/Artist: Roger Langridge
I know you’re judging me for reading a kids book (I can see it in your eyes), but I don’t care. This is fantastic, perfect for anyone who has watched any episode of the Muppet show. All it’s missing is the theme music. So good, I hope they do more after this mini-series ends; that would be literally sweet as hell.
Werewolves on the Moon: Versus Vampires Writer: Dave Land Artist: The Fillbach Brothers
Proving I have no taste, this is on my “bought” list. It is exactly what you expect it to be, cheap jokes and all. If you like werewolves, if you like vampires, if you like the moon, then buy this comic. Ha, I can’t get over how stupidly amusing I found this.
Quick List of things that came out that you either already know is how good they are or you should buy the trades and find out:
Agents of Atlas #6 Writer: Jeff Parker Artist: Gabriel Hardman
Secret Six #10 Writer: Gail Simone Artist: Nicola Scott
Amazing Spider-Man #596 Writer: Joe Kelly Artist: Paulo Siqueira
Superman: World
“The” Dan Jacka
Phil I would like to know what u thought of the first issue of Chew from
Layman and Guillory. Personally I thought it was inovative and refreshing. Its a little different as far as story and art goes which sets it apart from the other stuff i’ve been reading and I thought it deserved some attention.
Thanks
The artist on Mighty #5 (and the rest of the series) is Chris Samnee. Keith Champange is the co-writer.