X-O Manowar #13

Written by Robert Venditti

Art by Cary Nord

Colors by Moose Baumann

Review by Adam Shaw

This month’s issue of X-O Manowar puts the death in the “Planet Death” event. We’ve seen death and destruction since the start of the event, but nothing at the levels you would expect for an event one would assume has death encompassing an entire planet.

It was nice to see Aric interacting with some of the enslaved Visigoth on the Vine home world of Loam. He’s never forgotten his hatred of the Vine for his enslavement, but he was reminded of his people and all the death they faced, even before the Vine. He is a leader, and he has a duty to protect and keep them free from oppressors.

Throughout the series Venditti has been including short flashbacks to Aric’s life with the Visigoth on Earth before he was captured and taken into space. There are parallels between Aric’s own struggles against the Romans (and later the Vine), and the origins of the Shanhara armor. Even though he is fueled by it, Aric is not a simple agent of revenge. Aric represents the man that will not give up. He brings hope to others that are oppressed, and he will lead them to overcome their captors, just like the original wearer of the X-O Manowar armor did to free the Vine from their oppression.

There is simplicity and detail in Nord’s art that parallels the story being told. You could easily read through this quickly and view it all as a simpler tale of revenge and standing against those that would bring you and yours harm. Nord’s art has that simplicity that allows you to read through an issue of X-O Manowar quickly. There are levels of detail there, but you have to stop for a second to see them, much like you would need to stop and look at the parallels of past and present events.  It’s one of the many reasons I love this book. I can either cruise through the book and enjoy explosions, or take a finer look at the intricacies of the art and story.

The Verdict

Buy It. X-O Manowar continues to show that is a book that can be enjoyed both by casual readers and those looking for depth in their comics. With three more issues left to go, it looks like “Planet Death” is now in full swing. I hope I never piss off a Visigoth, because there will be hell to pay for sure.

Strange Attractors

Written & Created by Charles Soule

Art by Greg Scott

Colors by Art Lyon & Matthew Petz

Letters by Thomas Mauer

Complexity Maps by Robert Saywitz

Review by Joey Braccino

What if all those everyday occurrences that we chalk up to quirks of fate and/or random acts of kindness were actually carefully calculated “adjustments” designed to maintain order in what would otherwise be a chaotic, self-destructive system?

Enter Complexity Math, the intensely fascinating theory at the heart of Charles Soule’s cerebral techno-thriller comics series, Strange Attractors.

Here’s the synopsis from the Archaia page at comixology:

“In order to set himself up with a cushy job post graduation, Heller Wilson takes on a subject for his PhD thesis at the behest of his advisor. This leads him to meet with Dr. Spencer Brownfield, a disgraced Columbia professor who spent his career researching Complex Theory, the idea that one can use mathematics to predict the large-scale outcomes caused by minute changes in environment. At first, Dr. Brownfield seems crazy, but Heller soon discovers that the doctor’s research might be the only thing keeping New York City from destroying itself from the inside out.” (via http://www.comixology.com/Strange-Attractors/digital-comic/FEB130711)

Originally digitally published as a 5-issue mini-series between December 2012 and April 2013, Strange Attractors hit stands this week in the graphic novel format that Soule seems to have originally intended the comic to be in (at least as his website would suggest). Frankly, I couldn’t even begin to fathom how such a nuanced, layered story could be told in anything but this collected edition, especially considering the sheer number of interconnected sequences and moving plot parts—some of which seem to be nothing more than non-sequitur departures from Heller Wilsons primary travails. But, as is often the case with these Hickman-esque oeuvres, all of the pieces come together in some pretty remarkable ways.

I’ll leave the plot description to the synopsis above; needless to say, Soule balances the math with the action well in this comic, weaving discussion of theorems and equations with banter regarding music and bars. What could otherwise become another techno-babble-laden pseudo-science story is granted a great deal of heart and emotion through the characters’ (and Soule’s, as suggested by the spectacular forward to the book) admiration and commitment to the city of New York. Yes, Wilson and the Brownfield use their Complexity Math to accomplish some astounding feats, but that is really just the vehicle for Soule to write a “Save the City” story in a fresh and exciting manner.

Complexity Math and marvelous characterization aside, a real success for Strange Attractors comes in the form of Greg Scott’s lines. A blend of Maleev’s grit, Epting’s atmosphere, and Lark’s scratchy sensibilities, Scott’s artwork leaps from wide-angle shots of Central Park and the Hudson River to claustrophobic close-ups on the worry lines of our protagonists. Strange Attractors mixes the counter-terrorism feel of Ex Machina, the noir characterization of Criminal, and the progression charts of your favorite statistic class, so Scott’s aesthetic stability helps maintain a consistent tone throughout all the changes in genre. Furthermore, Art Lyon and Matthew Petz do a stunning job with the colors, covering everything from the realism of a polluted Central Park reservoir to the surreal stark reds of chaos and calming blues washes of order.

In addition to Scott’s fantastic artwork, Robert Saywitz designs several “Complexity Maps” for the book. These maps capture the trends of chaos and order in New York as Heller and Doc Brownfield work tirelessly to save the city. Saywitz’ maps are intensely complex in and of themselves, a combination of shapes and swirls and images toeing the line between chaotic and methodical. They crop up periodically in the main story, but this graphic novel features back-up material in which Saywitz explains his logic and design process. Fascinating stuff.

Verdict

Buy it. Strange Attractors is exactly the high-concept storytelling that is helping push creator-owned comics to the critical forefront in the industry. Soule’s decision to imbue his story with complex mathematical theory is balanced with the emotional resonance of the characters and their love for New York City. In a post-9/11 world where techno-terror is a leading genre in pop-culture, its refreshing to engage with a story in which the protagonists fight chaos through intelligence and determination rather than more violence. Scott’s artwork stuns and Soule’s characters hit all the right beats in this amazing graphic novel from Archaia! Check it!

COMPLEXITY!

Fables #129

Story by Bill Willingham

Art by Mark Buckingham

Review by Mara Whiteside

The cover says it all: Snow knows that her fight with Brandish may be her last. The desperate resolve in her eyes and the knowledge of the children she is leaving behind makes this decision to fight all the more difficult. Why? She feels every injury inflicted on Brandish.

Despite the stakes, Snow knows that the only way she protect her family is to end Brandish’s life. In true Fables fashion, she selects a fencing blade and challenges Brandish to a duel.

Snow’s fight with Brandish is painful to read. Her advanced training in fencing makes her difficult to kill, but her broken arm leaves the reader worried about her wellbeing. What’s more is the anticipation that the moment she kills Brandish can end her life as well.

Fans of Fables will need to read this issue. Not only does it feature the magnificent Snow White, it reveals a huge plot development at the end that will forever change Bigby and Snow’s family.

THE VERDICT

Fables has brought us a great Snow White storyline these past few months. No matter your familiarity with the series, you’ll enjoy the conclusion to Willingham’s Snow White arc. Besides, you’ll want to see where the series is heading.

DOOMSDAY.1  #1 (IDW)

Story/Art/Cover: John Byrne

Colors: Leonard O’Grady

Letters: Neil Uyetake

Reviewed by Bob Reyer

“Some say the world will end in fire,

some say in ice.”

“Fire and Ice” (1920)

Robert Frost

Quickly upon the heels of his last Science-Fiction mini-series The High Ways, writer/artist John Byrne once again brings us a tale of the near-future, although what kind of, or how many more tomorrows there will be is open to question in Doomsday.1 #1, the first issue of his apocalyptic new undertaking for IDW.

The tale opens aboard the International Space Station as astrophysicist Dr. Hikari Akiyama discovers that a massive solar eruption is heading toward the Earth. Mission Control confirms, but doesn’t seem worried, despite her data that indicates this flare will not dissipate, but in fact has grown so large as to have its own gravity which has caused it to be encircled by a cloud of plasma larger than the Earth itself! As mankind’s dire fate commences, the multi-national crew of the ISS (plus some civilian sightseers) plan to use their docked shuttle to return planet-side, even if that only serves to delay their inevitable demise. Reactions below range from tearful prayer and attempts at reconciliation to ugly self-interest as doom approaches. The shuttle leaves the station just ahead of the flare’s impact and orbits an Earth engulfed in a firestorm followed by a miasma of smoke and ash, and as Capt. Greg Boyd poignantly intones “Those who died instantly may have been the lucky ones.”

For those with long memories, this is not a “re-make” of of the 6-issue 1975-76 Charlton comics series Doomsday+1, created by writer Joe Gill (Captain Atom) and which featured some of John Byrne’s earliest four-color comics work.

This is instead a more serious work, and quoting Mr. Byrne:  “I’ve been thinking for some time that I would like to revisit a post-apocalypse kind of scenario, such as was seen in my very first ‘dramatic’ work in comics, but this time without the more obvious fantasy elements of that original series (mermaids, alien robots, frozen mammoths, etc.),” said Byrne. “When bits and pieces of this new series first started to percolate around in my head, I knew almost at once the shape that ‘revisit’ would take; something in the ‘All-New, All-Different’ vein. And the first time I doodled some images of my ‘crew,’ I knew I was there!”

As would be expected. the art in Doomsday.1 is stunning, with interesting panel lay-outs, page designs and technical details, but which never overwhelm the depth and breadth of emotions that Mr. Byrne instills in the faces of his characters, and often only through their body language. Additionally, the palettes chosen by colorist Leonard O’Grady add immeasurably to the atmosphere as we pass from the cold of space to the images of a world aflame.

As with all of his creator-driven work for IDW, Mr. Byrne has brought to life an engaging cast of characters, and even at the outset, whilst dropping us head-long into the action, you empathize with their predicament, cheer their heroism, mourn for their losses, and mull over the motives of others. It is rare in this day and age of de-constructed story-telling that so much groundwork is laid in both the plot and character sense as Mr. Byrne does here, but that has been one of the hallmarks of his distinguished career, and it makes for a beautifully-rendered portrait of a civilization on the brink, with humanity’s attributes both positive and negative on display.

VEDRDICT:  John Byrne has delivered another winner to fans of straight Science-Fiction with Doomsday.1 #1. This isn’t a 1950′s drive-in “end-of-the-world” with irradiated mutants and giant insects, but instead an intelligent saga with characters whose ultimate fate you’ll care deeply about. Doomsday.1 is Highly Recommended by this corner of the Talking Comics offices!

TRIVIA: John Byrne’s internet forum “Byrne Robotics” takes its name from the art credit that Mr. Byrne adopted with issue #4 of the Charlton series where he was penciller, inker and letterer!

Soundtrack (kinda): A must-see that relates to Doomsdsay.1 is the fabulous (but under-sung) 1962 British film The Day the Earth Caught Fire, directed by Val Guest from his screenplay with Wolf Mankowitz, the trailer for which can be seen below:

Click here to view the embedded video.

]]> http://talkingcomicbooks.com/2013/05/doomsday-1-review/feed/ 4 http://talkingcomicbooks.com/2013/05/doomsday-1-review/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TalkingComicBooks/~3/sjt31LL4rV0/ http://talkingcomicbooks.com/2013/05/wonder-woman-20-review/#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 19:51:11 +0000 Sean Lamont http://talkingcomicbooks.com/?p=19732

Wonder Woman #20

Written by Brian Azzarello

Art by Cliff Chiang

Reviewed by Sean Lamont

It’s always difficult to do a review of a title that has just been so consistently good, that there seems to be little left to say.  That is the situation I find myself in this week, reviewing Azzarello and Chang’s twentieth issue of their epic Wonder Woman run.  And while it may be polarizing for some fans, for readers like myself it has maintained a gripping plot, an unrivaled supporting cast, and features artwork that has captured the look and feel of the story almost perfectly.  With that said, let’s dive into Wonder Woman #20 to see if it holds to its ways.

Peace can never last long when squabbling gods and demigods are about, and Wonder Woman and her family find that out the hard way this issue.  As Apollo and Poseidon battle with words atop the refurbished halls of Mount Olympus, Artemis hunts for conflict herself by following the orders of her brother to snuff out the child foretold in the prophecy (while also seeking a rematch against Diana from their last conflict).  But even as these larger than life threats loom, their biggest adversary finally makes his presence known; seeking to claim the child for his own and find retribution for the wrongs these so-called gods had inflicted upon him.  Can Wonder Woman defeat Artemis without the tricks she needed last time to win?  And can her friends keep the baby Zeke safe as they face a threat that even makes the gods themselves tremble?

I’m elated to say the title is still going strong with all of the positive traits I listed in the opening paragraph.  As such, there is still another item on the list not mentioned that this particular issue brings to light, and that is the grandeur of scope.  What started as the smaller tale of Wonder Woman trying to defend a young lady from the schemes of a jealous Hera has blossomed over the last twenty issues into a massive epic utilizing practically the entire Greek pantheon.  Betrayal on a scale both large and personal, New Gods joining into the fray, and now past histories of these ancient beings coming back to bite them in the rear all adorn each progressive chapter like an ancient tragedy.  But more astounding, the small personable cast are not lost in this sea of interweaving plot.  A feat that is difficult to do, but is assisted with immensely by the artwork provided by Chiang.

Maintaining his stylized cartoonish approach, Chiang injects that personable feeling to each member of the cast by focusing so much attention to the emotions of the eyes.  So while Azzarello’s scripting and dialogue continues in its sharp style, the artwork provides a subtle counterpoint to the words; offering up the conflicted feelings behind those words.  As the action and intrigue occur in the foreground, entire scenes play out in the background without a word stated.  A look of concern from someone who has shown nothing but contempt, false bravado to hide fear for themselves and others, and haughty arrogance where none is warranted.  All of this occurs in the background, and gives the twisting story the grounded approach needed to make people care about the characters themselves without drawing focus away from the intricate plot.

VERDICT:

A shock to anyone who read the above, but I stick with a strong buy for this issue of Wonder Woman.  Continuing its ever-escalating storyline without losing the grounding needed for emotional resonance, this issue is another check mark in the positive column for what has been such a strong run in my opinion.  While others may not share that sentiment based on the reinterpretations done in this new volume, divorcing this character from her past would still leave a strong story well worth reading.

Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week 5/15/13

Hello and welcome to the revised edition of Talking Comics: Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week! It used to be that every week our Executive Editor Steve Seigh would showcase his favorite comic book covers of the week and then you could all go about your day. Well no more! From this point forward Steve won’t be the only one displaying the covers that caught his fancy. As of today, and for the foreseeable future, you’ll be viewing selections not only from Steve, but from other site staff and fans alike!

If you’d like to contribute to this column all you need to do is send Steve an email at SteveSeigh@TalkingComicBooks.com, telling him the title of the issue with the cover that you dig, as well as a brief description of why you’re grooving on that particular cover. We’ll try to include as many selections as possible and hope that you enjoy seeing your choices displayed for all of the internet to see.

So without further or due let’s get this week’s selections highlighted!

- Steve Seigh’s Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week -

Conan the Barbarian #16

Writer: Brian Wood
Artist: Davide Gianfelice
Colorist: Dave Stewart
Cover Artist: Massimo Carnevale

“There’s something very Adam and Eve about this cover, no? I love the depiction of the two innocents about to be accosted by the shadowy arms of sin. I’m especially digging on the colors and painterly way each of them is presented; it’s all quite beautiful.” – Steve Seigh

X-Factor #256

Story by Peter David
Art by Leonard Kirk & Jay Leisten
Colors by Matt Milla
Letters by Cory Petit
Cover by David Yardin

“Please see Joey Braccino’s thoughts below as I most definitely would echo them. For me, this is just a straight up powerful image for the final issue of a major event in this long running series. I’ve been holding off on reading X-Factor until the end of this event and now cannot wait to dig into it.” – Steve Seigh

“Talk about a metaphorically-charged cover! The religious imagery aside, it’s the background of David Yardin’s cover to the X-Factor ”Hell on Earth” finale that I find the most stunning. Yes, Monet sprawled out Christ-like in the center–suggesting a larger sacrificial/martyrdom theme to the story line–is a powerful image, but Yardin manages to convey the shock of each team member in a minimalistic red-and-white spiral outwards. It’s a unique lay-out and an astounding use of color. Great cover for a great comic!!!” – Joey Braccino

Batgirl #20

Written by Gail Simone
Art by Fernando Pasarin
Cover by Eddy Barrows & Eber Ferreira

“Damn! I’m into this redesign for The Ventriloquist something fierce. Who knew the redesign would be so horrific and creepy! Also, am I the only person who’s reminded of that Horror movie Dead Silence when looking at this cover?” – Steve Seigh

“It’s creepy looking!” – Talia Adina

“Jeez, Barbara seems to get herself into more trouble, doesn’t she? I’m unfamiliar with this new Ventriliquist, but she seems a charmer!” – Bob Reyer

Fables #129

Story by Bill Willingham
Art by Mark Buckingham & Steve Leialoha
Cover by Joao Ruas

“Stark. Simple. Determined. I like the look of conviction on Snow’s face quite a bit on this cover, it’s good stuff.” – Steve Seigh

“There’s just something so sad about Snow on the cover ready to take down the Prince. She knows that his well-being is linked to hers, and she could be walking into a death trap.” – Mara Whiteside

It Girl and the Atomics #10

Story by Jamie S. Rich
Art by Natalie Nourigat
Cover by Michael Allred & Laura Allred

“It’s It Girl. It’s Allred. Do you really need any other reasons? I didn’t think so.” – Steve Seigh

- Bobby Shortle’s Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week - 

Dream Merchant #1

Story by Nathan Edmondson
Art by Konstantin Novosadov

Conan the Barabarian #16

Writer: Brian Wood
Artist: Davide Gianfelice
Colorist: Dave Stewart
Cover Artist: Massimo Carnevale 

- Bob Reyer’s Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week -

DOOMSDAY.1 #1 (IDW)

Writer/Artist/Cover: John Byrne
Colors: Leonard O’Grady

“This cover reminds me of the 1962 British science fiction film “The Day the Earth Caught Fire” (which if you haven’t seen, you must!). You can almost feel the heat rising off the page!” – Bob Reyer

FF #7

Story: Matt Fraction
Art/Cover: Michael Allred
Colors: Laura Allred

“The stand-in Fantastic Four was in a spot of bother at the end of last issue, with the Baxter Building having been thrust into the Negative Zone, and somehow things seem to be even worse for the crew, based on this cover by the amazing Michael Allred!” – Bob Reyer

- Melissa Megan’s Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week -

Fatale #14

Story by Ed Brubaker
Art by Sean Phillips & Dave Stewart
Cover by Sean Phillips

“I’m going with Fatale #14 this week. I haven’t even gotten to read this series yet (don’t worry, I will!), but this cover looks pretty rad with the billy gun equipped woman and Cthulhu-style monster.”  - Melissa Megan

- Adam Shaw’s Favorite Comic Book Cover of the Week -

Batwoman #20

Story by J.H. Williams III & W. Haden Blackman
Art by Trevor McCarthy & Sandu Florea
Colors by Guy Major
Letters by Todd Klein
Cover by J.H. Williams III

- 0 ~ o -

Favorite Comic Book Covers of the Week Soundtrack

Click here to view the embedded video.

This list was compiled while listening to the album We Are the 21st Century Ambassadors of Peace & Magic by the band Foxygen.

*Remember, if you would  like to participate in this column, send your cover selections (please, only one cover per week) to SteveSeigh@TalkingComicBooks.com. Be sure to have your selections in by midnight of the Monday that corresponds with that week’s releases. Also, please try to keep your selections to books that are being released that week ONLY. Thanks so much and we look forward to sharing your thoughts with all who stop by the Talking Comics website. Cheers! – Steve

This list was compiled by Steve Seigh - Executive Editor of Talking Comics. You can hear Steve on the Talking Comics weekly podcast as well as find him on Joblo.com where he writes a featured, bi-weekly column called Ink & Pixel. His Twitter handle is @dead_anchoress.

By Bobby Shortle

Hello everyone and welcome to Talking Comics Presents! Every week we here at Talking Comics will endeavor to give you a personal view of the book we are most excited for, and why!

Remember , I want your input, what books are you excited for? Have you found any great fan art this week? Whats your favorite cover, panel or bit of writing (easy on the spoilers)? Do you have a video testimonial, audio blurb or art of your own you’d like to share? Send these things to bobby@talkingcomicbooks.com and the best of them will be included here from now on!

Don’t forget to check out our listener question podcast, Joey Braccino’s Skyward Review,  Mara Whiteside’s Gender Issues column, Melissa Megan’s latest Nature vs. Nerdture and of course the reviews from our amazing contributors.

Well, enough with the who, where, what, why and how, I give to you Talking Comics Presents for the books releasing on 5/15/13.

DC:

Batgirl #20

Story: Gail Simone

Art: Fernando Pasarin

Cover: Eddy Barrows & Eber Ferreira

Recommended by Bob Reyer, Steve Seigh and Stephanie Cooke

DC says: “There’s no time to catch your breath after last issue’s shocking ending as an emotionally unstable Batgirl must confront one of Batman’s most violent foes: The Ventriloquist”

Bob Reyer says: “Last issue, a concussed Batgirl made a choice that might have caused the death of a loved one, and which set her father, Commissioner Gordon, unknowingly after his own daughter. Can Barbara continue to be effective as a crime fighter when the law she strives to uphold turns its gaze upon her?”

Steve Seigh says: “I’m SUPER excited about this issue of Batgirl. Not only am I happy to be moving away from the whole James Gordon Jr. business, but I’m happy to see The Ventriloquist making a retooled return to the Batverse. Gail Simone is a superb writer who will no doubt give us something truly creepy and clever to look forward to as this villain is re-introduced into the DC New 52.”

Stephanie Cooke says: “I don’t think there will ever come a time when I won’t be excited for the release of Batgirl on stores shelves… or at least I HOPE that never happens.”

Supergirl #20

Story by Michael Alan Nelson

Art by Mahmud Asrar

Cover by Emanuela Lupacchino

Recommended by Travis McCollum

DC says: “Supergirl is dead—Long live Supergirl! Or so it seems as the strange connection between the Karas has PowerGirl becoming Supergirl again.”

Travis McCollum says: “Supergirl is a series I have been very hot and cold on for a while now. After twelve incredibly strong issues that ranked, at least in my opinion, as one of the top ten titles in the New 52, the series seemed to fall on its face with its inclusion in the H’el on Earth arc. I thought I was done with the series for good until I heard that Karen Starr (aka Power Girl) would be making an appearance in the arc following H’el on Earth. On top of that, it would reintroduce Power Girl’s old costume into the DCU. As a World’s Finest and Supergirl fan I felt like I owed it to myself to continue picking up the book and it’s proven to be the best the book has been in nearly 5 months. It’s funny, it’s clever, it’s well drawn and it’s everything you could ever want in a Supergirl title.”

Wonder Woman #20

Story by Brian Azzarello

Art by Goran Sudzuka & Cliff Chiang

Colors by Matthew Wilson

Letters by Jared K. Fletcher

Cover by Cliff Chiang

Recommended by Sean Lamont

DC Comics says: “Wonder Woman was certain there was one person in her life she could trust—but she thought wrong!”

Sean Lamont says: “This week would easily go to Wonder Woman for me.  The nuanced character work mixed with the steady build-up to what looks like an inevitable war between the Old and New Gods has me hooked to this book month in and month out.”

IDW:

Doomsday.1 #1

Story/Art/Cover: John Byrne

Colors: Leonard O’Grady

IDW says: “The Earth may have dodged a bullet on 12/21/2012, but there are worse things in store for our little blue planet. Seven adventurers aboard the International Space Station watch in horror as most of the world is decimated by a monster solar flare. And their only choice is to return to the surface, and face whatever awaits them there!”

Bob Reyer says: “I believe that this series is a re-imagining of the mid-1970s Charlton Comics Doomsday +1, which was written by Joe Gill and featured some of the earliest comics work by John Byrne. As I was so wrong about the intricacies of the plot of The High Ways don’t take my word for it! Back then it was a nuclear holocaust as opposed to the solar-driven one featured here, but it seems the end result is the same. It feels like another winner for Mr. Byrne and IDW!”

IMAGE:

Dream Merchant #1

Story by Nathan Edmondson

Art by Konstantin Novosadov

Recommended by Joey Braccino

Image says: “A double-size issue to kick off a new sci-fi series from Nathan Edmondson and newcomer Konstantin Novosadov. Haunted by recurring dreams, a boy named Winslow is hunted by mysterious beings and protected by an old traveler. Soon Winslow will realize that what is in his dreams is what the rest of the world has been made to forget–and what strange entities will stop at nothing to erase from his mind.”

Joey Braccino says: “To be honest, I have no idea what this comic is about. The Image solicit says something about sci-fi and recurring dream-mares and a boy named Winslow… that all sounds wonderful. What’s even more wonderful is that Nathan “Dancer was one of Joey’s favorite comic books last summer” Edmondson is writing AND Konstantin Novosadov’s artwork is delightfully trippy. This comic looks like Casanova meets Sandman with a dash of Infinite Vacation and Air. I’m game!”

MARVEL:

Avengers: The Enemy Within #1

Story: Kelly Sue DeConnick

Art: Scott Hepburn

Colors: Jordie Bellaire

Cover: Joe Quinones

Recommended by Bob Reyer, Steve Seigh, and Travis McCollum

Marvel says: “THE OPENING SALVO TO THE HOTLY ANTICIPATED AVENGERS/CAPTAIN MARVEL FOUR PART EVENT! Can’t keep a good Captain down! Vicious echoes of the Avengers’ past are cropping up all over Manhattan…and a grounded Captain Marvel refuses to be left behind. Who is the sinister figure behind these incursions and what does it have to do with Carol Danvers’ mysterious condition? But is this villain real or just a figment of Captain Marvel’s increasingly deadly imagination?”

Bob Reyer says: “Each month, Kelly Sue DeConnick has revealed new facets to Carol Danvers amid her struggles to be worthy of the name Captain Marvel. Now, with her powers restricted and her very mind at stake, can she persevere against a threat she thought ended?”

Steve Seigh says: “The book that I’m looking forward to the most this week is Avengers: The Enemy Within #1 from Marvel Comics. I’m excited for this (four part) event primarily because its central character is one of my current favorites – Captain Marvel. I’m hoping that this event will give more, much deserved attention to the Captain Marvel character and help put to rest those nasty rumors about her series being considered for cancellation. It’s high time that we see female characters in comics get their due and with any luck this comic will be another step in that positive direction.”

Travis McCollum says: “With recent health issues causing Carol some concern and a return of an old foe looming in the dark, Captain Marvel is going to need all the help she can get.  This Avengers Assemble/Captain Marvel crossover begins here and it’ll be interesting to see if my favorite title of 2012 will continue to impress as we head into this massive crossover.”

FF #7

Story by Matt Fraction

Art by Michael Allred

Colors by Laura Allred

Cover by Michael Allred & Laura Allred

Marvel says: “Field trip…into the heart of the Negative Zone! Scott Lang has already lost a daughter… watch what happens when he puts it all on the line to save… Bentley-23? The shocking reveal of the villain pulling the strings and pitting family against family — and a rescue mission unlike anything you’ve ever seen — FF vs FF!”

Mara Whiteside says: “Comics that feature teams with kids are fun and bright, especially FF. Each issue from this series has be delightful and fun, not to mention different from other series regularly published.”

Nova #4

Story by Jeph Loeb

Art by Ed McGuinness & Dexter Vines

Colors by Marte Gracia

Letters by Albert Deschense

Cover by Ed McGuinness, Dexter Vines, Marte Gracia, & Stephen Platt

Marvel says: “The comic everyone is talking about continues! The mysteries surrounding the disappearance of Sam’s dad deepen and the helmet leads Nova into intergalactic conflict that will affect the entire Marvel Universe!”

Adam Shaw says: “I am enjoying the crap out of Nova. It’s one of those books that highlights why I am enjoying Marvel over DC right now. Last week on twitter I said, ‘I read my DC books and it was like cosmic bowling. It’s dark, a little fun, but not a real party.’Nova is a cosmic party of pure fun.”

Jacob Bryant says: “Nova #4 by Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness has been great fun since it began. It is one of the precious few all age books on the stands right now which makes it even more important. Loeb’s witty portrayal of Sam Alexander and McGuinness’s gorgeous art are a perfect fit for this fun book.”

Wolverine and the X-Men #29

Story by Jason Aaron

Art by Ramon Perez

Colors by Laura Martin

Cover by Ramon Perez

Recommended by Travis McCollum

Marvel says: “See the Jean Grey School of the future! The students of JGS put a time-capsule together that you can follow into the future and see what happened to all your favorite X-Men.”

Travis McCollum says: “Have you ever wanted to see what the Jean Grey school will be like in the future? If you answered yes like me then you definitely need to pick this book up.”

X-Factor #256

Story: Peter David

Art: Leonard Kirk

Cover: David Yardin

Marvel says: “HELL ON EARTH WAR’ comes to its senses-shattering conclusion! • One Hell Lord stands victorious as the Earth is consumed in fire and brimstone. • The few remaining members of X-Factor make one last ditch effort to save the world from its grim future. Not all will survive the final battle. • And the last person you would expect winds up sitting on the throne of Hell…”

Bob Reyer says:  Of course, the above is what Marvel said last time, as they released the wrong blurb for #255!  Needless to say, this has been a fabulous story-arc in an equally amazing run by Peter David on this title, and I’m going to savor every issue as he guides this series to its conclusion.

Stephanie Cooke says: “X-Factor #256 – Thanks to Bob Reyer, the quirky X-Factor comic has become one of my favourites and highly-anticipated comics of the month. I’m bummed that it’ll be coming to an end soon, but I’ll embrace what little time I have left with the series.”

VALIANT:

X-O Manowar #13

Story by Robert Venditti

Art by Cary Nord

Cover by Trevor Hairsine & Ryan Sook

Recommended by Adam Shaw

Valiant says: “As Aric of Dacia grapples with the realization that the Vine aren’t the only race on the world he intends to conquer, will his surprise compatriots offer him refuge or rivalry? Meanwhile, the Vine’s leaders are about to launch their most devastating attack yet, one that will push the X-O Manowar armor to its limits and beyond.”

Adam Shaw says: “Venditti has been doing an awesome job of world building. X-O isn’t just the best Valiant book, but one of the best being published. Top of my pile everytime! I’m pretty stoked to see Aric kicking butt without his armor this issue.”

Talking Comics Presents 5.8.13

Due to a personal emergency I could not complete last week’s TC Presents, but here are the books are staff was excited for for the week of 5.8.13.

Bob Reyer:

Rocketeer: Hollywood Horror #4

“Can a grounded Rocketeer prevail against Otto Rune and the other-worldly horror that he has raised up? I have faith in Cliff, and in Betty and Nick & Nora Charles, too…and with Julius Henry Marx now on the case, how can this go anything but well? If anyone asks, “Tell ‘em Groucho sent you!”

Fearless Defenders #4

“This book has swiftly become one of my favorites.Humor, action, and adventure in a perfect balance, and leads that are positively brimming with personality, this series is a great addition to the glorious history of Marvel’s #1 “non-team”, The Defenders.”

Adam Shaw:

Avenging Spider-Man #20

“Dan Slott has been pushing the Superior Spider-Man story forward, but Chris Yost has really been giving us readers a better look at the personality and character behind Octo-Spidey.”

Mara Whiteside:

Star Wars #5:

“Star Wars is one book that I was wary of when it was first announced as a new series. Since its publication, I’ve been inspired to branch out to other non-movie Star Wars stories and experience the entire universe. Each new issue makes me fall in love all over again with my favorite characters. Issue 5 will be no exception as Leia must outmaneuver the Empire and keep her team a secret.”

Jacob Bryant:

Star Wars #5:

“Star Wars by Brian Wood and Carlos D’Anda takes place shortly after the events in A New Hope and has been spectacular since it began. The creative team has been adding great and new depth to all the characters we love, especially Princess Leia. Each issue has left me wanting more immediately and is a must read for any Star Wars fan out there.”

Sean Lamont:

Justice League of America #3

“Sticking with a title that annoyed me a bit with its delay, but I am excited to read it nonetheless: Justice League of America #3.  Building up a new Secret Society of super-villains to start squaring off the myriad hero teams that are out there, the steady pacing and build of the story has been an entertaining read thus far.  With the action coming to a head this issue, it has me jazzed to see if John’s is intending to go full tilt here as he has on his other titles of late.”

Steve Seigh:

Suicide Squad #20

“This week I’m really looking forward to seeing what the new creative team of Ales Kot and Patrick Zircher can bring to DC’s Suicide Squad. I’m a big fan of Kot’s enigmatic writing style and can’t wait to see what Zircher brings to the page. Suicide Squad is a series within the DC New 52 that I’ve struggled with over time. I loved the first arc – particularly the one that focused on Harley’s (new) origin – but found myself unenthusiastic about what followed shortly thereafter. Let’s hope that this new team brings the goods and Suicide Squad once again becomes worthy of adding to our pull lists.”

Thor: God of Thunder #8

“Verily! It’s that time of the month for another one of my favorite on-going comic book series: Thor: God of Thunder. You can bet I’ll be drinking myself a frothy mug of ale while I read this book!”

The Fearless Defenders #4

“This all-female super hero team has been kicking ass and taking names since the start and I cannot wait to see what lies ahead in this latest issue. If you haven’t checked this series out yet, you really should. It’s got action, style, and more personality than most comic books on the shelves today.”

Travis McCollum:

Grimm #1

“Dynamite has been on a roll lately with their pulp hero books, but one surprise that has caught my eye is the first issue of Grimm, an adaptation of the hit NBC drama. The series lends itself well to comics, given the supernatural detective element that the show brings to the table, but adaptations, as promising as they may seem, can be hit or miss sometimes. Luckily Dynamite wanted to reassure fans that this comic would be good by releasing the zero issue during Free Comic Book Day. After reading it I’m hooked and can’t wait to see what’s next for our Portland creature-hunter.”

Uber #1

“Uber boils down to one simple equation in my mind: Kieron Gillen+World War II+Superpowered Nazis+Evil Scientists=Awesome. The zero issue was brilliant (and getting a reprint this week for those who missed it the first time around) and now we get to see how the adventure unfolds with the first issue. I can’t wait to read this title.”

Well that’s all for this week’s Talking Comics Presents, don’t forget to send your picks and submissions to bobby@talkingcomicbooks.com, and check out the Talking Comics Podcast. On this week’s show we discussed Agents of S.H.E.I.L.D. and took your listener questions.

This variant cover is the most exciting thing about the issue.

Age of Ultron #8

Written by Brian Michael Bendis

Art by Brandon Peterson

Colors by Paul Mounts

Reviewed by Adam Shaw

I have been on such a roller coaster on whether or not I am enjoying Age of Ultron, but after this eighth issue I am unsure if I even have an opinion anymore. I’m a newer Marvel convert, so I didn’t know if I should be screaming, “Oh my flipping god! I can’t believe this!” in pitch fork raising anger or in a fanboy squeal of glee, or even if I should just shrug, “meh.”

I understand that having to occasionally check out Wikipedia for some back history is a thing you got to do if you want to read superhero comics at the big two. That’s cool, I do that, and I had to do it for issue #8 of Age of Ultron. Outside of the tales of King Arthur, I am unfamiliar with Morgan La Fey, so I took to reading up a little bit on her.

Eight issues in and we haven’t even seen Ultron, or even heard what he was/is/will be up to in about two issues. I’m sure in the next two issues things will come together, but it doesn’t feel like we are getting anything out of this issue. Alternate time-line Tony Stark keeps insisting 616 Sue and Logan are working with La Fey, and then she just shows up.  It wasn’t very surprising, and it didn’t feel engaging or interesting either. I just rolled my eyes. Oh, and next issue is supposed to be Wolverine versus Wolverine again. I mean… I just… I can’t.

Maybe I’m way off my mark, but this issue just fell flat. I found it hard to get excited about the events, and felt the issue just missed all its beats; pacing has been the plague of this series. The art didn’t grab my attention either. It was by no means bad. It was just there.

The Verdict

I’m going to have go with “meh.” I had such high hopes that I was going to enjoy the rest of the series after issue six. I’d skip this issue (or just drop the event) if I were you. Maybe out of some misguided sense of pride and stubbornness, but I’m going to finish this event (I bailed on AvX last summer). I’ll wait until both of the last two issues are out, and then read them together. I’ll let you know if the event picks itself up again.

Cover of the week in my book.

X-Factor #256

Written by Peter David

Pencils by Leonard Kirk

Inks by Jay Leisten

Colors by Matt Milla

Review by Joey Braccino

What. The. Hell.

Peter David’s “Hell on Earth War” comes to a knock-down, drag-out brawl of a conclusion, complete with twists and turns and an absolutely shocking final page. X-Factor #256 takes a decidedly more action-packed pace than is typically the custom for the series, and the final result is an intense and fitting finale to one of the best “event” storylines in comics in a long time.

So many things happen in this issue, from apparent deaths to multiple multi-colored explosions to one hell of a cliffhanger ending.

Peter David has built to the climactic moments in this finale for the last 2 years worth of X-Factor issues. Everything from Tier’s birth to Guido’s resurrection to the introduction of Mephisto’s daughter, Jezebel, to Layla and Jamie’s marriage to Rictor and ‘Star’s relationship comes into play here. The only person that is conspicuously absent is Theresa Cassidy, who’s currently off serving as the mystical Irish banshee Morrigan. Taking her place is Polaris, who takes on the brunt of the superheroics this issue while Monet is… well… after issue #254… dead. David’s grasp of these characters is uncanny, and the events of this issue suggest a finality to the series that hasn’t been felt yet.**

**It was recently announced that X-Factor will indeed after this summer. It would seem that David is entering that denouement with this issue.

Despite that long history, this finale reads fairly easily. The combination of Tier’s expository narration and the relative self-containment of the story’s action makes for an accessible read for new readers. Yes, so many things happen, but David’s masterful storytelling hits each and every emotional beat perfectly. Issue #256 has no time for quips or pop culture; instead, it’s serious-business time as X-Factor battles to save the Earth from Hell.

Leonard Kirk is in fine form for this final issue. The linework perfectly balances the superheroic elements with the horror/supernatural settings. There are some confusing panels during one character’s “death,” but this is due more to the perspective and used than the lines themselves. Matt Milla and Jay Leisten compliment Kirk’s pencils well, covering everything from shadowy silhouettes to fiery explosions.

Verdict

Buy. And the reasons for my original “What. The. Hell?” Three-fold. First, so many things! I want to talk about all of the twists and turns in this issue, but I want you to read the book first. So buy it and read it and enjoy one of the climactic final issues I’ve read in a long time. Second, three characters are comic-book-killed in this issue, and I desperately need to know what happens to them and to their friends. This speaks to Peter David’s deft characterization and storytelling. I care a lot. Third, I really don’t want this series to end. “Hell on Earth” has been one of the best comic events on the stands, and while this final issue is an effective resolution and suggests a long denouement of consequences, it also reminded me just why I love X-Factor so very much.

Swords! Boy hero! Rural Fantasy! Dogs! Yay!

Skyward #1

Jeremy Dale Writes and Draws

Thom Zahler Letters

Steve Downer Colors

Joey Braccino Reviews

As I read the debut issue of Jeremy Dale’s Skyward, I couldn’t help but flashback to my younger (happier?) days spent playing Final Fantasy on my Sony Playstation. Immersing myself in the fantasy world of swordplay and tunics, I would spend hours upon hours in front of the 13” tube TV.

Good times, good times.

And here we are. Skyward.

How shall I count the ways? There are so many things that I LOVE about Jeremy Dale’s tale of young Quinn and his tragic initiation into the life of an adventurer.

First, Dale’s artwork is perfect for the story at hand. The linework balances cartooning and naturalism to create an aesthetic that is both visually clear and deceptively simple. Steve Downer’s colors are vibrant and varied, lending the book a youthful energy that the subject matter and setting might not. When I first opened the book, I instantly thought that Dale’s work reflected an All Ages strategy, but, again, Skyward is an incredible deceptive, incredibly nuanced comic book.

Skyward opens with a boy, Quinn, and his father, Corin, knee-deep in a peaceful lake fly-fishing. It’s a serene scene that instantly evokes the familial themes that carry the debut issue from beginning to end. We meet Corin’s wife, Taryn, as well as his former-ally-turned-murderous-and-corrupt-villain, Herod. What ensues is a fairly standard origin story as it were for our young protagonist, Quinn, that sees Herod essentially obliterate his calm, pastoral existence violently and terribly. Some of the scenes are surprisingly intense for what could otherwise be construed as an All Ages story, but that’s a good kind of surprising: Dale is not dodging the realities of Quinn’s “genesis,” instead lending the debut issue all of the emotional resonance that only death, violence, and pain can.

My only criticism of this comic book is one that frequent readers of Talking Comics will understand: Taryn, who at first appears to be a relatively confident character, ends up filling little more than your typical Woman-in-Refrigerator role. And that’s a bummer. Aside from her fantastically rustic flowing hair-and-bandana combo, Taryn’s storyline in this debut issue devolves quickly into victimization and tragedy. I understand that Dale is using her to elicit an emotional response from Quinn, but come on! Does the ONLY female character in issue #1 have to the only underdeveloped character in the book!?!?

Verdict

Action Lab has a winner on its hands with Jeremy Dale’s Skyward. After a bit of research, I learned that Skyward has gone through a bit of a self-publishing phase and received a brief Issue #0 in Action Lab’s Free Comic Book Day comic. Looking at solicits and past issues, I’m sure my sole criticism regarding female representation in the book will be remedied. Still, Taryn’s fate in this book may deter some readers, which is an unfortunate turn considering the abundant achievements in this debut issue. For fans of high fantasy and ol’ fashioned swordplay, Skyward is the comic for you. For those that like both those things but need a little bit more heart, the lost-boy storyline at the core of Skyward should carry this new series to such great heights!