Some of you may have heard about this little comic called Fantastic Four. Back when they were created by some guys named Lee and Kirby, they kinda started the whole Marvel Universe and put Marvel, as a company, on the map. It's about these four people who get exposed to Cosmic Rays and get amazing (or possibly "fantastic") powers, and decide to use their powers to help people, save the universe, etc. Oh, there is apparently a movie coming out over the summer based on these guys too. Does that ring a bell?
OK, all kidding aside, no comic book fan worthy of the name doesn't know about the FF. They are Marvel's First Family and, in the right hands, their adventures can make for fantastic, exciting, and just-plain-fun reading. At their best, the FF can truly live up to Stan Lee's hype as "The World's Greatest Comic Magazine." When these great characters are hooked up with a great writer/artist team, fans better pay attention.
Fantastic Four # 527 marks the start of a promising new era for the team. J. Michael Straczynski (AKA:JMS), the much-loved and sometimes controversial writer of Amazing Spider-Man, Supreme Power, Midnight Nation, and loads of other good stuff, takes over the writing duties with this issue. JMS is known for writing great stories and for finding new ideas to explore with long-running characters. Those elements are definitely in place with his first issue of FF.
In fact, all the elements of a great FF story are here. Readers get just a hint of what life would be like with a brain as super-smarty-smart as Reed Richards. We get humor, family dynamics in action, some big sci-fi ideas, and just a hint of adventure to come. JMS' great story is well-served by excellent art from Mike McKone. The characters look great, Reed's science-gizmos are cool, and even the quieter moments are visually stunning.
This is your chance to get in at the start of a new era for the Fantastic Four. If you don't try out FF #527, Johnny will give you a hot-foot, Ben will clobber you, Reed will be appalled by your ignorance, and Sue will... um, probably put up a force field to protect you from that abuse. Anyway, buy FF #527 now while it is the guaranteed Book of the Week. It's cosmic, dude!
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Man with the Screaming Brain #1
Bruce Campbell is THE man. Ask anybody who knows anything, and they'll tell ya that there is just no one cooler than Bruce. Anyone who doesn't agree is just plain crazy. Whether you know him as Ash from "Evil Dead", Elvis from"Bubba Ho-Tep", Briscoe County Jr., or from his pivotal roles in both Spider-Man films, you know that Bruce Campbell is one groovy dude.
"Sure," you say, "Campbell is cool. But what does he have to do with the Book of the Week?" Excellent question and, if I may say so, very well asked! One of Mr. Campbell's latest projects is an independently produced movie, "The Man with the Screaming Brain," co-written, directed by, and starring Bruce Campbell. The clever folks at Dark Horse Comics, seeing a chance to embrace the Campbell-cool, asked him to put together a script for a comic adaptation of the film, and THAT is what Bruce Campbell has to do with the Book of the Week.
Man with the Screaming Brain #1 is co-written by Campbell and David Goodman with art by Rick Remender and Hilary Barta. The story is a bizarre tale about an unpleasant and obnoxious American millionaire, William Cole, who makes an ill-fated business trip to a small Russian city. Cole runs into trouble with commies, a former KGB cab-driver, hilarious Russian accents, and Gypsies. The Gypsies are bad enough, but Willie's troubles really start when he runs afoul of an "unstable" Gypsy femme fatale calledTatoya.
The book is drawn in a somewhat cartoony style, which fits the story perfectly. Campbell himself says that the comic is a truer vision of the story because characters and settings can be captured much more perfectly through the hands of an artist than by any movie studio. The caricature-like art also perfectly re-creates Campbell's famous chin.
Give a little sugar to Bruce Campbell! Try out The Man with the Screaming Brain #1. This off-the-wall comic makes a great change of pace. It has mad science (love the mad science!), Gypsies, seduction, betrayal, a wonderfully violent cab driver, and Bruce Campbell! And all this is before we even set eyes on a screaming brain. Best of all, Screaming Brain is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Try it today! Just remember, there are two rules in Gypsy Town. Number One: Stay in the car. Number Two: Same as number 1.
"Sure," you say, "Campbell is cool. But what does he have to do with the Book of the Week?" Excellent question and, if I may say so, very well asked! One of Mr. Campbell's latest projects is an independently produced movie, "The Man with the Screaming Brain," co-written, directed by, and starring Bruce Campbell. The clever folks at Dark Horse Comics, seeing a chance to embrace the Campbell-cool, asked him to put together a script for a comic adaptation of the film, and THAT is what Bruce Campbell has to do with the Book of the Week.
Man with the Screaming Brain #1 is co-written by Campbell and David Goodman with art by Rick Remender and Hilary Barta. The story is a bizarre tale about an unpleasant and obnoxious American millionaire, William Cole, who makes an ill-fated business trip to a small Russian city. Cole runs into trouble with commies, a former KGB cab-driver, hilarious Russian accents, and Gypsies. The Gypsies are bad enough, but Willie's troubles really start when he runs afoul of an "unstable" Gypsy femme fatale calledTatoya.
The book is drawn in a somewhat cartoony style, which fits the story perfectly. Campbell himself says that the comic is a truer vision of the story because characters and settings can be captured much more perfectly through the hands of an artist than by any movie studio. The caricature-like art also perfectly re-creates Campbell's famous chin.
Give a little sugar to Bruce Campbell! Try out The Man with the Screaming Brain #1. This off-the-wall comic makes a great change of pace. It has mad science (love the mad science!), Gypsies, seduction, betrayal, a wonderfully violent cab driver, and Bruce Campbell! And all this is before we even set eyes on a screaming brain. Best of all, Screaming Brain is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Try it today! Just remember, there are two rules in Gypsy Town. Number One: Stay in the car. Number Two: Same as number 1.
Epic Fantasy: The Wood Boy #1
Those of you with a naughty mind may giggle when you hear the title The Wood Boy, but it isn't what you think. How many people would like to be named by the job they do? Most folks would probably object to being known only as "The Sales Lady," "The Driving Guy," "The Keyboard Dude," or "The Human Resources and Development Woman." Unfortunately, that is just what happens to "The Wood Boy."
The Wood Boy, from Image Comics, is an adaptation of a novel by famed fantasy writer Raymond E. Feist. The story has been adapted by Sean Jordan, with art by Matt Broome. Having never read the original novel, I'm not sure how faithful the adaptation is, but the story here is well-told. Broome's art is very nicely detailed, with a hint of manga-style in the look of the characters.
The Wood Boy is a young lad named Dirk. (I know, Dirk the Wood Boy is just asking for a rude double entendre. Try to be mature about this.) Dirk was looking forward to a fairly cushy life as a servant to Lord Paul of White Hill. His life of laid back Feudal servitude veers way off track when the White Hill is invaded by the mysterious Tsurani. The Tsurani take over with little blood-shed, but they are happy to demonstrate that they will not tolerate even the slightest disobedience to their rule. If anyone even looks at a Tsurani the wrong way, they will quickly find themselves hanging from the nearest available tree.
Among many other back-breaking duties, Dirk finds himself delivering firewood to the Tsurani kitchens. It is this thankless job that earns him the name "The Wood Boy." Considering the oppressive lack of fun that comes with Tsurani rule, many of the servants are not very happy with their new bosses. Since any expression of discontent leads to a one-man necktie party, things get a bit ugly and seem set to go downhill from here.
The Wood Boy seems all set to be an epic fantasy tale, something not seen all that often in comics. If you are a fan of Tolkein or Dark Horse's recent Conan series, you will probably find a lot to like in this series. Don't miss out on the opening chapter! Pick up The Wood Boy #1, while it is Four Color Fantasies' Book of the Week. You don't want to end up being called the "Wouldn't Try It Guy," do you?
The Wood Boy, from Image Comics, is an adaptation of a novel by famed fantasy writer Raymond E. Feist. The story has been adapted by Sean Jordan, with art by Matt Broome. Having never read the original novel, I'm not sure how faithful the adaptation is, but the story here is well-told. Broome's art is very nicely detailed, with a hint of manga-style in the look of the characters.
The Wood Boy is a young lad named Dirk. (I know, Dirk the Wood Boy is just asking for a rude double entendre. Try to be mature about this.) Dirk was looking forward to a fairly cushy life as a servant to Lord Paul of White Hill. His life of laid back Feudal servitude veers way off track when the White Hill is invaded by the mysterious Tsurani. The Tsurani take over with little blood-shed, but they are happy to demonstrate that they will not tolerate even the slightest disobedience to their rule. If anyone even looks at a Tsurani the wrong way, they will quickly find themselves hanging from the nearest available tree.
Among many other back-breaking duties, Dirk finds himself delivering firewood to the Tsurani kitchens. It is this thankless job that earns him the name "The Wood Boy." Considering the oppressive lack of fun that comes with Tsurani rule, many of the servants are not very happy with their new bosses. Since any expression of discontent leads to a one-man necktie party, things get a bit ugly and seem set to go downhill from here.
The Wood Boy seems all set to be an epic fantasy tale, something not seen all that often in comics. If you are a fan of Tolkein or Dark Horse's recent Conan series, you will probably find a lot to like in this series. Don't miss out on the opening chapter! Pick up The Wood Boy #1, while it is Four Color Fantasies' Book of the Week. You don't want to end up being called the "Wouldn't Try It Guy," do you?
Friday, May 06, 2005
It ain't easy being super: Great Lakes Avengers #2
What if YOU were a super-hero? At least part of the appeal of super-hero comics comes from the desire to BE a hero, to be someone with abilities and powers far beyond those of mortal men. Realistically, if most of us had some sort of run-in with experimental chemicals or radioactive waste that --instead of sending us for a lengthy hospital stay-- granted amazing powers, we probably wouldn't know quite what to do next. We wouldn't be the next Captain America or Daredevil. We might not even be the next Speedball. But maybe, just maybe, we could join the Great Lakes Avengers.
The GLA are a group of regular, everyday folks who somehow ended up with super powers. They all really want to help people, they really want to be heroes, they understand that "with great power comes great responsibility," but, try as they might, they just can't make the grade. Unwanted by any of the major super-teams out there, the GLA formed their own mid-western version of the Earth's Mightiest Heroes. Sadly, even as a team, these heroes have failed to make their mark. Even more sadly, their inadequate performance tends to get members killed with alarming frequency.
In the second issue of Marvel's new GLA series, this unfortunate dip in membership has forced the GLA to try to drum up some new recruits. In the Marvel Universe, if you are looking for heroes there is only one place to go-New York City! With membership down and their leader (Mr. Immortal, who tends to die quite often himself) on a bit of a "mental health break," Flatman and Doorman head to the big city looking for willing heroes to join the team. As you can imagine, recruiting is not easy for the GLA. Even Sleepwalker turns them down.
This very clever and funny look at the less successful side of the super-hero biz is written by Dan Slott and pencilled by Paul Pelletier, the talented team behind the excellent (and soon to be returning) She-Hulk series. Slott has added some great touches to the GLA, including commentary from new member Squirrel Girl (a hugely under-rated Steve Ditko creation) and her helpful squirrel side-kick, Monkey Joe. In fact, this book is worth buying for Monkey Joe's sage advice alone.
If you like your super-hero comics with a bit of humor and huge doses of satire, you should check out GLA #2. If you like comics that dare to be different, you should check out GLA #2. Most of all, if you like comics that offer advice and commentary from a cartoon squirrel, you HAVE to check out GLA #2. Do it now, while GLA #2 is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Monkey Joe says, "You better buy it, or Squirrel Girl will be angry!"
The GLA are a group of regular, everyday folks who somehow ended up with super powers. They all really want to help people, they really want to be heroes, they understand that "with great power comes great responsibility," but, try as they might, they just can't make the grade. Unwanted by any of the major super-teams out there, the GLA formed their own mid-western version of the Earth's Mightiest Heroes. Sadly, even as a team, these heroes have failed to make their mark. Even more sadly, their inadequate performance tends to get members killed with alarming frequency.
In the second issue of Marvel's new GLA series, this unfortunate dip in membership has forced the GLA to try to drum up some new recruits. In the Marvel Universe, if you are looking for heroes there is only one place to go-New York City! With membership down and their leader (Mr. Immortal, who tends to die quite often himself) on a bit of a "mental health break," Flatman and Doorman head to the big city looking for willing heroes to join the team. As you can imagine, recruiting is not easy for the GLA. Even Sleepwalker turns them down.
This very clever and funny look at the less successful side of the super-hero biz is written by Dan Slott and pencilled by Paul Pelletier, the talented team behind the excellent (and soon to be returning) She-Hulk series. Slott has added some great touches to the GLA, including commentary from new member Squirrel Girl (a hugely under-rated Steve Ditko creation) and her helpful squirrel side-kick, Monkey Joe. In fact, this book is worth buying for Monkey Joe's sage advice alone.
If you like your super-hero comics with a bit of humor and huge doses of satire, you should check out GLA #2. If you like comics that dare to be different, you should check out GLA #2. Most of all, if you like comics that offer advice and commentary from a cartoon squirrel, you HAVE to check out GLA #2. Do it now, while GLA #2 is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Monkey Joe says, "You better buy it, or Squirrel Girl will be angry!"
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
The Truth of Supreme Power
Power. Wouldn't you like to have more power? Of course, if you had power, you would have to figure out what to do with it. Would you try to end poverty and promote world peace? Would you set yourself up on a tropical island with a huge mansion and your very own harem? Or would you try to rule the world and keep the people crushed under your mighty heel? Tough choices. Now, what would you do if you had "Supreme Power"?
In the world of J. Michael Straczynski's Supreme Power, having power doesn't actually make life much easier for anybody. When the original "Squadron Supreme" first appeared in Marvel Comics, they were really just a thinly veiled parody of DC's "Justice League." JMS has taken those characters and looked at them in a whole new light. What would happen in the"real" world if people with incredible abilities and "supreme power" actually existed?
When the Superman-like Hyperion crashes to Earth as a baby, the US government is on the scene to take possession of this alien visitor. And when he shows signs of having power far beyond human beings, action is quickly taken to ensure that that power is always under government control. One way or another, Hyperion's arrival is the catalyst for other super-powered beings to appear on the scene. The more people become involved, the more difficult it is to maintain control. Eventually, things start to go wrong.
With JMS, the writer behind Amazing Spider-Man and TV's Babylon 5 at the helm, Supreme Power exists in a world where anything can happen. These characters are not tied into anyone else's shared universe, so JMS does not always have to play nice. The fact that this book exists in Marvel's MAXimprint, for mature readers, also means that JMS can take the story in any direction he may choose. The excellent writing in this title is ably supported by Gary Frank's gorgeously detailed and realistic art.
Supreme Power #16 deals mostly with the Army's attempts to regain control of Hyperion (AKA Mark Milton) after he has had enough of being manipulated and takes off to do his own thing. Even though new readers will be jumping into the middle of the story, there is enough info given here to explain everything you will need to know. Try out this realistic look at the life of a super-hero now, while it is Four Color's guaranteed Book of the Week. You have the power!
In the world of J. Michael Straczynski's Supreme Power, having power doesn't actually make life much easier for anybody. When the original "Squadron Supreme" first appeared in Marvel Comics, they were really just a thinly veiled parody of DC's "Justice League." JMS has taken those characters and looked at them in a whole new light. What would happen in the"real" world if people with incredible abilities and "supreme power" actually existed?
When the Superman-like Hyperion crashes to Earth as a baby, the US government is on the scene to take possession of this alien visitor. And when he shows signs of having power far beyond human beings, action is quickly taken to ensure that that power is always under government control. One way or another, Hyperion's arrival is the catalyst for other super-powered beings to appear on the scene. The more people become involved, the more difficult it is to maintain control. Eventually, things start to go wrong.
With JMS, the writer behind Amazing Spider-Man and TV's Babylon 5 at the helm, Supreme Power exists in a world where anything can happen. These characters are not tied into anyone else's shared universe, so JMS does not always have to play nice. The fact that this book exists in Marvel's MAXimprint, for mature readers, also means that JMS can take the story in any direction he may choose. The excellent writing in this title is ably supported by Gary Frank's gorgeously detailed and realistic art.
Supreme Power #16 deals mostly with the Army's attempts to regain control of Hyperion (AKA Mark Milton) after he has had enough of being manipulated and takes off to do his own thing. Even though new readers will be jumping into the middle of the story, there is enough info given here to explain everything you will need to know. Try out this realistic look at the life of a super-hero now, while it is Four Color's guaranteed Book of the Week. You have the power!
Friday, April 22, 2005
Zombie-rific: The Walking Dead #18
Zombies! Everybody loves zombies! Once upon a time, zombies were the under-appreciated middle child of the horror genre but those bleak days are far behind us. In recent years, zombies have been turning up all over the place to great popular acclaim. Zombies have shambled their way into the public's heart through the "Resident Evil" game and movie franchise, movies like "Dawn of the Dead" and "Shaun of the Dead," and, of course, comics.
The Walking Dead, from Image Comics, has stumbled, moaned and gasped its way to the head of the pack in the land of zombie comics. This book is the brain-child of the renowned and beloved Robert Kirkman, creator of Invincible and Battle Pope and the writer of Marvel Team-Up and other fun Marvel books. The starting premise of this book was to look at what would happen if one of those end-of-the-world apocalyptic zombie films didn't have to end in just two hours. What that really means is this comic is not your typical brain-eating zombie gore-fest (not that there is anything wrong with that). Walking Dead is actually a very thoughtful, character-led book about a group of very "real" folks and how they live and cope in a world overrun by the undead. There is action, and there is zombie violence, but the real strength of the book is character-based drama.
Kirkman clearly loves this book and these characters. Unfortunately for them, this love does not guarantee that anyone will survive in the world of Walking Dead. It has been clear from the start anyone, possibly even lead protagonist Rick, can die at any time. No one is safe. Kirkman is a master of cliffhangers that will leave you staring aghast at the final page, and counting the days until the next issue. The cast of characters is brought believably to life by the dark and moody black and white art of Charlie Adlard, and the great covers by Tony Moore.
The Walking Dead #18 is a good jumping on point for new readers, despite coming in mid-story, because the issue provides a cool "score card" of all the main characters (past and present) and their connections to each other. Each issue also boasts a huge letter column, sometimes up to 8 pages(!), answered by Kirkman himself, which can help new readers get up to speed fast.
Keeping in mind that the language and the, sometimes shocking, violence mean this comic is not one for the young or the faint-at-heart, The WalkingDead #18 is a can't miss read. If you like zombies, action, and human drama, you will enjoy your visit to the gripping world of The Walking Dead. Drag your decomposing carcass to the counter and ask for this book by name now, while Walking Dead #18 is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! (Tasty brains not included in Book of the Week offer.)
The Walking Dead, from Image Comics, has stumbled, moaned and gasped its way to the head of the pack in the land of zombie comics. This book is the brain-child of the renowned and beloved Robert Kirkman, creator of Invincible and Battle Pope and the writer of Marvel Team-Up and other fun Marvel books. The starting premise of this book was to look at what would happen if one of those end-of-the-world apocalyptic zombie films didn't have to end in just two hours. What that really means is this comic is not your typical brain-eating zombie gore-fest (not that there is anything wrong with that). Walking Dead is actually a very thoughtful, character-led book about a group of very "real" folks and how they live and cope in a world overrun by the undead. There is action, and there is zombie violence, but the real strength of the book is character-based drama.
Kirkman clearly loves this book and these characters. Unfortunately for them, this love does not guarantee that anyone will survive in the world of Walking Dead. It has been clear from the start anyone, possibly even lead protagonist Rick, can die at any time. No one is safe. Kirkman is a master of cliffhangers that will leave you staring aghast at the final page, and counting the days until the next issue. The cast of characters is brought believably to life by the dark and moody black and white art of Charlie Adlard, and the great covers by Tony Moore.
The Walking Dead #18 is a good jumping on point for new readers, despite coming in mid-story, because the issue provides a cool "score card" of all the main characters (past and present) and their connections to each other. Each issue also boasts a huge letter column, sometimes up to 8 pages(!), answered by Kirkman himself, which can help new readers get up to speed fast.
Keeping in mind that the language and the, sometimes shocking, violence mean this comic is not one for the young or the faint-at-heart, The WalkingDead #18 is a can't miss read. If you like zombies, action, and human drama, you will enjoy your visit to the gripping world of The Walking Dead. Drag your decomposing carcass to the counter and ask for this book by name now, while Walking Dead #18 is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! (Tasty brains not included in Book of the Week offer.)
Friday, April 15, 2005
Conan and the Jewels of Gwahlur
"Know, O Prince that between the years when the oceans drank Atlantis and the gleaming cities, and the years of the rise of the sons of Aryas, there was an age undreamed of when shining kingdoms lay spread across the world like blue mantles beneath the stars. Hither came Conan the Cimmerian; blackhaired, sullen-eyed, sword in hand..." -REH
Being a barbarian has acquired a certain amount of social stigma, but there are bonuses to living the barbarian lifestyle. I mean, you work your own hours, you are your own boss, the overhead expenses are minimal, and there are LOADS of perks. What other jobs actually require carousing, wenching, fighting and drinking? On the down side, the life expectancy of the average barbarian is brutally short, unless you are really good at your job. Like Conan.
If you haven't been reading Dark Horse Comics' monthly Conan book by Kurt Busiek and Cary Nord, you really should be. Their adaptation of the life of Robert E. Howard's famous barbarian has treated the character with therespect he deserves. True to his literary roots, Dark Horse's Conan is no muscle-bound, dim-bulb, slab of beef. He is a clever and calculating Cimmerian out to see the world and claim his part of it. If you have been missing out on the fun, now is your chance to redeem yourself by checking out Dark Horse's new limited series "Conan and the Jewels of Gwahlur."
P. Craig Russell, an artist known for his sumptuous and refined pencils, continues Busiek and Nord's tradition of quality in this three-issue series. "Jewels" is a very close adaptation of a novella by Howard, and does not take place during the same time in Conan's life as the monthly. (So even if you have never read a Conan story before, you can jump right in with this book.) This tells the tale of a somewhat older and more experienced Conan. Our barbarian hero gets mixed up in the political schemes of corrupt governments and religious leaders, when all he wants to do is make a buck by stealing the kingdom's most valuable artifacts: the jewels known as the"Teeth of Gwahlur." (And, no, I don't know how to pronounce "Gwahlur." Give it your best shot.) A beautiful woman and a mysterious, undying oracle complicate matters even further, but an adventurer's life is never easy.
If you like the sword and sorcery genre, Conan's tales are some of the very best. If you like great comic book art, P. Craig Russell's is some of the very best. When these two are put together, you have a can't-miss, guaranteed Four Color Fantasies' Book of the Week, by Crom! Try it and, by Mitra's Toes, you won't be disappointed.
Being a barbarian has acquired a certain amount of social stigma, but there are bonuses to living the barbarian lifestyle. I mean, you work your own hours, you are your own boss, the overhead expenses are minimal, and there are LOADS of perks. What other jobs actually require carousing, wenching, fighting and drinking? On the down side, the life expectancy of the average barbarian is brutally short, unless you are really good at your job. Like Conan.
If you haven't been reading Dark Horse Comics' monthly Conan book by Kurt Busiek and Cary Nord, you really should be. Their adaptation of the life of Robert E. Howard's famous barbarian has treated the character with therespect he deserves. True to his literary roots, Dark Horse's Conan is no muscle-bound, dim-bulb, slab of beef. He is a clever and calculating Cimmerian out to see the world and claim his part of it. If you have been missing out on the fun, now is your chance to redeem yourself by checking out Dark Horse's new limited series "Conan and the Jewels of Gwahlur."
P. Craig Russell, an artist known for his sumptuous and refined pencils, continues Busiek and Nord's tradition of quality in this three-issue series. "Jewels" is a very close adaptation of a novella by Howard, and does not take place during the same time in Conan's life as the monthly. (So even if you have never read a Conan story before, you can jump right in with this book.) This tells the tale of a somewhat older and more experienced Conan. Our barbarian hero gets mixed up in the political schemes of corrupt governments and religious leaders, when all he wants to do is make a buck by stealing the kingdom's most valuable artifacts: the jewels known as the"Teeth of Gwahlur." (And, no, I don't know how to pronounce "Gwahlur." Give it your best shot.) A beautiful woman and a mysterious, undying oracle complicate matters even further, but an adventurer's life is never easy.
If you like the sword and sorcery genre, Conan's tales are some of the very best. If you like great comic book art, P. Craig Russell's is some of the very best. When these two are put together, you have a can't-miss, guaranteed Four Color Fantasies' Book of the Week, by Crom! Try it and, by Mitra's Toes, you won't be disappointed.
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Moon Knight appears! Marvel Team-Up #7
Moon Knight! That should really be all it takes to get you old-school Marvel fans to try out Marvel Team-Up #7. Just in case the first time didn't do, allow me to repeat myself: Moon Knight! Now onto the rest of the book.
The new Marvel Team-Up series by Robert Kirkman and Scott Kolins has everything comic book fans could possibly want in a super-hero comic. It has loads of continuity references to thrill long-time fans, but it doesn't get tied down by the continuity. It has continuing, involved story-arcs, but each issue also has a pretty satisfying chunk of story on its own. It has tons of action, but also plenty of humor and character moments. Best of all, it has the entire cast of the Marvel Universe to star in its pages. Any hero or villain that ever appeared in any Marvel comic can pop into these pages, and quite a few of them have turned up in just the first few issues.
Kirkman, who is also the writer of such slices of comics excellence as The Walking Dead and Invincible, really seems to be enjoying the chance to play with all of these great characters. Sure, he has made use of obvious choices like Spidey, Captain America, and the Hulk, but some great lesser known characters, like Nova and Moon Knight, are showing up as well. Kolins's art just adds to the fun. Kolins draws amazing action sequences and his clean-lines show off the rotating cast of characters in truly classic form.
Marvel Team-Up #7 kicks off a new story arc and teams up the always loveable Spider-Man with Moon Knight, a cool character who has not headlined a title of his own for far too long. Moon Knight, for those who have shamefully forgotten, is a bit like Batman with more of a mystical side. He has all the best super-hero toys to work with, and his banter with a very envious Spidey is a highlight of the issue. And if Spidey and Moon Knight aren't enough for you, this issue also features the villainous Ringmaster, Constrictor, AND a fragment of the Cosmic Cube!
If you like classic comic book action and the pure sense of fun that is missing from too many series nowadays, you really should be reading Marvel Team-Up. Now is your chance! This week Marvel Team-Up #7 is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. This COULD be the start of the Moon Knight revolution, and you don't want to be left behind when the revolution begins. (Did I mention that Moon Knight is in this book?)
The new Marvel Team-Up series by Robert Kirkman and Scott Kolins has everything comic book fans could possibly want in a super-hero comic. It has loads of continuity references to thrill long-time fans, but it doesn't get tied down by the continuity. It has continuing, involved story-arcs, but each issue also has a pretty satisfying chunk of story on its own. It has tons of action, but also plenty of humor and character moments. Best of all, it has the entire cast of the Marvel Universe to star in its pages. Any hero or villain that ever appeared in any Marvel comic can pop into these pages, and quite a few of them have turned up in just the first few issues.
Kirkman, who is also the writer of such slices of comics excellence as The Walking Dead and Invincible, really seems to be enjoying the chance to play with all of these great characters. Sure, he has made use of obvious choices like Spidey, Captain America, and the Hulk, but some great lesser known characters, like Nova and Moon Knight, are showing up as well. Kolins's art just adds to the fun. Kolins draws amazing action sequences and his clean-lines show off the rotating cast of characters in truly classic form.
Marvel Team-Up #7 kicks off a new story arc and teams up the always loveable Spider-Man with Moon Knight, a cool character who has not headlined a title of his own for far too long. Moon Knight, for those who have shamefully forgotten, is a bit like Batman with more of a mystical side. He has all the best super-hero toys to work with, and his banter with a very envious Spidey is a highlight of the issue. And if Spidey and Moon Knight aren't enough for you, this issue also features the villainous Ringmaster, Constrictor, AND a fragment of the Cosmic Cube!
If you like classic comic book action and the pure sense of fun that is missing from too many series nowadays, you really should be reading Marvel Team-Up. Now is your chance! This week Marvel Team-Up #7 is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. This COULD be the start of the Moon Knight revolution, and you don't want to be left behind when the revolution begins. (Did I mention that Moon Knight is in this book?)
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
You lucky devil! Daredevil #71
Of all the heroes in the Marvel Universe, Daredevil just may be the one with the worst luck and the toughest breaks. Look at his origin story, he has to go blind AND lose his dad to even get in the hero biz. Unlike other heroes, the toxic, radioactive goop that gets dumped on him doesn't give him super-strength, or the ability to fly and shoot laser beams. He gets radar and really good hearing. His girlfriends either get killed by Bullseye or they turn out to be nutso psychopaths or (in most cases) both. Life is never easy for the Man Without Fear.
In recent years, Daredevil's identity was exposed in the press, so he has to spend most of his time dealing with lawsuits and assassination attempts. Despite it all, Matt Murdoch keeps pulling on his red PJs and struggling to bring justice to the mean streets of Hell's Kitchen. I think we can probably forgive the guy for being just a little cranky. It is understandable when DD decides that enough is enough. He takes out the Kingpin, Wilson Fisk, once and for all, and essentially declares himself the new "Kingpin."
"Decalogue, Part 1" in Daredevil #71 takes a look at how the public feels about the whole Daredevil situation. Most community churches have counselling for troubled teens, or people who need help with their marriage. St. Mary's Church in Hell's Kitchen has Wednesday sessions to discuss "The Devil Among Us." The small group that comes together here to discuss DD shows clearly that different members of the community have very different outlooks on Matt's alter ego. To some he is a hero, to others a jerk who can't mind his own business, and to some he is a creepy guy who dresses up in a devil suit and punches people.
Daredevil #71 is written by fan-favorite Brian Michael Bendis, with art by Alex Maleev. As always, Bendis writes excellent dialogue, and brings an unique approach to looking at the life of a super-hero and the way he affects the world around him. Bendis has been writing Daredevil for years now, so he knows his stuff when it comes to Matt Murdoch. (And despite the fact that Bendis writes something like a bajillion books every month, he keeps turning out quality!) Maleev's art has a realistic, yet dark and sketchy quality that makes a perfect match for DD's gritty, street-level heroics.
If you like your super-heroics just a bit on the dark and gritty side, you will love Daredevil: Decalogue, Part 1. It has Bendis, it has action, it has noir, and it has a guy in a red devil suit punching people! What more could anyone ask for? (Other than some sort of talking monkey.) If nothing else, you'll be glad you don't live Matt's life. Try Daredevil #71 now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! You lucky devil!
In recent years, Daredevil's identity was exposed in the press, so he has to spend most of his time dealing with lawsuits and assassination attempts. Despite it all, Matt Murdoch keeps pulling on his red PJs and struggling to bring justice to the mean streets of Hell's Kitchen. I think we can probably forgive the guy for being just a little cranky. It is understandable when DD decides that enough is enough. He takes out the Kingpin, Wilson Fisk, once and for all, and essentially declares himself the new "Kingpin."
"Decalogue, Part 1" in Daredevil #71 takes a look at how the public feels about the whole Daredevil situation. Most community churches have counselling for troubled teens, or people who need help with their marriage. St. Mary's Church in Hell's Kitchen has Wednesday sessions to discuss "The Devil Among Us." The small group that comes together here to discuss DD shows clearly that different members of the community have very different outlooks on Matt's alter ego. To some he is a hero, to others a jerk who can't mind his own business, and to some he is a creepy guy who dresses up in a devil suit and punches people.
Daredevil #71 is written by fan-favorite Brian Michael Bendis, with art by Alex Maleev. As always, Bendis writes excellent dialogue, and brings an unique approach to looking at the life of a super-hero and the way he affects the world around him. Bendis has been writing Daredevil for years now, so he knows his stuff when it comes to Matt Murdoch. (And despite the fact that Bendis writes something like a bajillion books every month, he keeps turning out quality!) Maleev's art has a realistic, yet dark and sketchy quality that makes a perfect match for DD's gritty, street-level heroics.
If you like your super-heroics just a bit on the dark and gritty side, you will love Daredevil: Decalogue, Part 1. It has Bendis, it has action, it has noir, and it has a guy in a red devil suit punching people! What more could anyone ask for? (Other than some sort of talking monkey.) If nothing else, you'll be glad you don't live Matt's life. Try Daredevil #71 now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! You lucky devil!
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Mad Science Origins: Ultimate Iron Man #1
Of all the many lessons comics have to teach us, the most frequently repeated is that cutting-edge scientific research (AKA "mad science") is often way more trouble than it is worth. Maybe comics wouldn't have to warn us about the dangers of science gone wild so much if people would just learn to lay off the test tubes. Science should be left in the capable hands of reasonable professionals, like Bill Nye and Professor Frink, not reckless munitions developers in Marvel's Ultimate universe.
Ultimate Iron Man #1 by Orson Scott Card and Andy Kubert, starts at the very beginning of the life of Iron Man. Actually, it starts even before the beginning. The story takes place years in the past, as Howard Stark begins work on an entirely new kind of armor. The cool thing about this armor is that you just spray it on from an aerosol can and you become invulnerable to almost any trauma, from ice picks to baseball bats. The downside is that it will eat your skin off in three hours.
The skin-eating problem means that Stark needs help, so he enlists the best geneticist he can find. Dr. Maria Cerrera is not only brilliant, she is darn cute too. Being a typical member of the Stark family, Howard is soon smitten with her and love blooms for the future parents of Iron Man. Unfortunately for them, scientific disaster soon rears its ugly head...
Orson Scott Card is a world-renowned, best selling author of science fiction novels, and he really brings his science know-how to this story. A character like Iron Man really needs to be right at the edge of current scientific theory and Ultimate Iron Man definitely is on that edge. The art by Andy Kubert is, as always, gorgeous and exciting. The only possible complaint with this first issue is that we don't actually get to see Kubert's version of Iron Man in action. At least that leaves something to look forward to!
So remember kids, science is awful dangerous but comics can wisely show you the way to avoid disaster. If you want to experience the thrill of experimentation without endangering your friends and loved-ones, pick up Ultimate Iron Man #1 while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week.
Ultimate Iron Man #1 by Orson Scott Card and Andy Kubert, starts at the very beginning of the life of Iron Man. Actually, it starts even before the beginning. The story takes place years in the past, as Howard Stark begins work on an entirely new kind of armor. The cool thing about this armor is that you just spray it on from an aerosol can and you become invulnerable to almost any trauma, from ice picks to baseball bats. The downside is that it will eat your skin off in three hours.
The skin-eating problem means that Stark needs help, so he enlists the best geneticist he can find. Dr. Maria Cerrera is not only brilliant, she is darn cute too. Being a typical member of the Stark family, Howard is soon smitten with her and love blooms for the future parents of Iron Man. Unfortunately for them, scientific disaster soon rears its ugly head...
Orson Scott Card is a world-renowned, best selling author of science fiction novels, and he really brings his science know-how to this story. A character like Iron Man really needs to be right at the edge of current scientific theory and Ultimate Iron Man definitely is on that edge. The art by Andy Kubert is, as always, gorgeous and exciting. The only possible complaint with this first issue is that we don't actually get to see Kubert's version of Iron Man in action. At least that leaves something to look forward to!
So remember kids, science is awful dangerous but comics can wisely show you the way to avoid disaster. If you want to experience the thrill of experimentation without endangering your friends and loved-ones, pick up Ultimate Iron Man #1 while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week.
Friday, March 11, 2005
Mythic Aspirations: Blood of the Demon #1
Summoning up aid from the forces of darkness is really a tricky business. On the one hand, you may have an incredibly powerful being to defeat your enemies, conquer armies, or help with the laundry. This could be very useful. On the other hand (moral implications aside), the summoned one may find a way out of your control, bite your face off, and drag you screaming into the abyss. Very tricky business.
DC Comics' Blood of the Demon #1 starts out with just such a tricky proposition. Over a thousand years ago, Merlin (Yes, THE Merlin) summons up the demon Etrigan to help fend off the forces of Morgaine Le Fey. Unfortunately, Camelot falls but Merlin allows Etrigan to live on, tempered by a human side. For the next thousand years, the human Jason Blood and his demon half, Etrigan, fight for humanity against the forces of evil.
Today, in Gotham City, some extemely bad people (or people-like things) decide they have a need for Etrigan's special talents. They capture and torture Jason Blood in the hopes of finding Etrigan. What they unleash, however, may be more than they, or the world, can handle...
Blood of the Demon is pencilled and plotted by John Byrne, with scripting by Will Pfeifer. Byrne has been one of the most well-known names in comics for decades. He has written and drawn highly regarded stories for many classic characters, including the X-Men, Superman, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk, She-Hulk, and many, many others. John Byrne knows comics, and that shows with his work here. The characters look great and the action, and there is a LOT of action, is dynamic and easy to follow.
If you like supernatural stories with a dark edge, you will enjoy Blood of the Demon #1. This isn't for the faint hearted, as there is quite a bit of bloodshed, but there is some humor to lighten the darker moments. (Beware the naked, bullet-proof man!) Give Etrigan a try now, while he is starring in Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just remember, don't go summoning evil forces in your own home. Take out the trash yourself, and you'll be happier in the long run.
DC Comics' Blood of the Demon #1 starts out with just such a tricky proposition. Over a thousand years ago, Merlin (Yes, THE Merlin) summons up the demon Etrigan to help fend off the forces of Morgaine Le Fey. Unfortunately, Camelot falls but Merlin allows Etrigan to live on, tempered by a human side. For the next thousand years, the human Jason Blood and his demon half, Etrigan, fight for humanity against the forces of evil.
Today, in Gotham City, some extemely bad people (or people-like things) decide they have a need for Etrigan's special talents. They capture and torture Jason Blood in the hopes of finding Etrigan. What they unleash, however, may be more than they, or the world, can handle...
Blood of the Demon is pencilled and plotted by John Byrne, with scripting by Will Pfeifer. Byrne has been one of the most well-known names in comics for decades. He has written and drawn highly regarded stories for many classic characters, including the X-Men, Superman, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk, She-Hulk, and many, many others. John Byrne knows comics, and that shows with his work here. The characters look great and the action, and there is a LOT of action, is dynamic and easy to follow.
If you like supernatural stories with a dark edge, you will enjoy Blood of the Demon #1. This isn't for the faint hearted, as there is quite a bit of bloodshed, but there is some humor to lighten the darker moments. (Beware the naked, bullet-proof man!) Give Etrigan a try now, while he is starring in Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just remember, don't go summoning evil forces in your own home. Take out the trash yourself, and you'll be happier in the long run.
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Comics Cautionary Tale: Legend #1
You know, if more comic book characters actually READ comics, quite a few of the tricky situations they get themselves into could be avoided. For example, any comic book reader can tell you that untested, cutting-edge, "crazy" scientific experiments probably should not be conducted on onesel for ones' family. The odds are that you will end up insane, in jail, or in a gooey puddle on the floor.
In Legend #1, it is all too clear that Abednego Danner has not read enough comics. In what appears to be rural America, many decades ago, Danner starts experimenting with the chemistry of living things. He believes, much to the dismay of his sternly religious wife, that it is possible to create a human who has strength and endurance beyond imagining. He experiments on lesser animals, but when his wife becomes pregnant, Abednego just can't resist the urge to get out the hypo and start secretly injecting her with glowing, green chemicals.
Their son, Hugo, seems normal enough at birth, but it quickly becomes apparent that he is no average baby. The real story of Legend follows as Hugo grows up. Both he and his parents struggle to deal with his abilities, and to find Hugo's place in a society that hates him because he is different. Hugo has to learn to deal with abusive children and with intolerant adults, while not losing control of his awesome power. Life is not going to be easy for Hugo Danner.
Legend is written by Howard Chaykin with art by Russ Heath. In comics, you can't get a better pedigree than that. These are creators whose names have long been synonymous with quality, and Legend shows off their skills very well. The story and the characters are immediately involving, and Heath's pencils are perfect for evoking a quaint, but far from perfect, America of the past.
Legend #1 is a great first issue that will leave you hungry for more. There are some serious themes to think about here (and some cussin'), so it is recommended for older readers. Legendary comics creators, mad-science and super-powers. You can't go wrong with all of these ingredients combined. Check out Legend #1 while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just don't start injecting your friends and family with green, glowing, science-y stuff. It will only lead to tears.
In Legend #1, it is all too clear that Abednego Danner has not read enough comics. In what appears to be rural America, many decades ago, Danner starts experimenting with the chemistry of living things. He believes, much to the dismay of his sternly religious wife, that it is possible to create a human who has strength and endurance beyond imagining. He experiments on lesser animals, but when his wife becomes pregnant, Abednego just can't resist the urge to get out the hypo and start secretly injecting her with glowing, green chemicals.
Their son, Hugo, seems normal enough at birth, but it quickly becomes apparent that he is no average baby. The real story of Legend follows as Hugo grows up. Both he and his parents struggle to deal with his abilities, and to find Hugo's place in a society that hates him because he is different. Hugo has to learn to deal with abusive children and with intolerant adults, while not losing control of his awesome power. Life is not going to be easy for Hugo Danner.
Legend is written by Howard Chaykin with art by Russ Heath. In comics, you can't get a better pedigree than that. These are creators whose names have long been synonymous with quality, and Legend shows off their skills very well. The story and the characters are immediately involving, and Heath's pencils are perfect for evoking a quaint, but far from perfect, America of the past.
Legend #1 is a great first issue that will leave you hungry for more. There are some serious themes to think about here (and some cussin'), so it is recommended for older readers. Legendary comics creators, mad-science and super-powers. You can't go wrong with all of these ingredients combined. Check out Legend #1 while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. Just don't start injecting your friends and family with green, glowing, science-y stuff. It will only lead to tears.
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
A Modern Day Witch Hunt: Daredevil "Redemption"
If there is one thing a bunch of angry rednecks tryin' to organize a good, lawful execution don't like, it's some fancy-pants, blind, New York lawyer stickin' his nose into their business. The only thing that could possibly be worse is one o' them tights-wearin' super-hero types stickin' his hornedhead where it just don't belong. Unfortunately for the people of Redemption, Alabama, they got both.
Daredevil: Redemption is a limited series that could almost (without the blind super-hero part) be pulled straight from CNN's scrolling headlines. Loosely based on real events, "Redemption" involves the Marvel Universe's most famous lawyer, Matt Murdock (AKA Daredevil), in a gruesome child-murder case. Matt has often found his life as a lawyer to be even more difficult than putting on the spandex and dealing with the world's problems vigilante-style. Defending Joel Flood is definitely one of those tough cases.
Murdock is approached by Joel's mother, Emily, to defend her teenage son. Joel is accused, with overwhelming evidence against him, of brutally murdering a young boy. The problem is, his mother is totally convinced of his innocence. So convinced that Matt, against everyone else's advice, believes her and feels compelled to take the case. When Matt arrives in Redemption, he finds a community on a modern-day witch hunt. Everyone is out to see Joel Flood convicted and executed, and Joel doesn't seem to be trying too hard to change anyone's mind about him.
Daredevil: Redemption is written by David Hine with art by Michael Gaydos. Hine's story is very believable, with characters that seem true-to-life. It would be easy for the isolated residents of Redemption to come across as simple backwoods stereotypes, but that doesn't happen in Hine's carefully crafted story. Gaydos' dark, moody, and realistic artstyle (which I loved in Marvel's "Alias!") is perfect for this story. The gravity of the themes in this story, such as child abuse, domestic violence, and murder, are well-served by Gaydos' heavy black lines and shadows.
If you are looking for light-hearted action with wall-to-wall super-heroics, this story may not be for you. However, if you like a bit of mystery, some real human drama, and a story that will really give you something to think about, you can't go wrong with Daredevil: Redemption. This limited series is coming out weekly, so you won't have to wait too long to find out what happens. Try out the first two issues now, while they are Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book(s) of the Week! Tell 'em the fancy New York lawyer sent ya.
Daredevil: Redemption is a limited series that could almost (without the blind super-hero part) be pulled straight from CNN's scrolling headlines. Loosely based on real events, "Redemption" involves the Marvel Universe's most famous lawyer, Matt Murdock (AKA Daredevil), in a gruesome child-murder case. Matt has often found his life as a lawyer to be even more difficult than putting on the spandex and dealing with the world's problems vigilante-style. Defending Joel Flood is definitely one of those tough cases.
Murdock is approached by Joel's mother, Emily, to defend her teenage son. Joel is accused, with overwhelming evidence against him, of brutally murdering a young boy. The problem is, his mother is totally convinced of his innocence. So convinced that Matt, against everyone else's advice, believes her and feels compelled to take the case. When Matt arrives in Redemption, he finds a community on a modern-day witch hunt. Everyone is out to see Joel Flood convicted and executed, and Joel doesn't seem to be trying too hard to change anyone's mind about him.
Daredevil: Redemption is written by David Hine with art by Michael Gaydos. Hine's story is very believable, with characters that seem true-to-life. It would be easy for the isolated residents of Redemption to come across as simple backwoods stereotypes, but that doesn't happen in Hine's carefully crafted story. Gaydos' dark, moody, and realistic artstyle (which I loved in Marvel's "Alias!") is perfect for this story. The gravity of the themes in this story, such as child abuse, domestic violence, and murder, are well-served by Gaydos' heavy black lines and shadows.
If you are looking for light-hearted action with wall-to-wall super-heroics, this story may not be for you. However, if you like a bit of mystery, some real human drama, and a story that will really give you something to think about, you can't go wrong with Daredevil: Redemption. This limited series is coming out weekly, so you won't have to wait too long to find out what happens. Try out the first two issues now, while they are Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book(s) of the Week! Tell 'em the fancy New York lawyer sent ya.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Dangerous Dimensions: Breach
If super-hero comics have taught us anything (and they have), it is that you just can't trust top-secret army projects that involve new technology, super-weapons, space travel, or other dimensions. Seriously, stay far away from that stuff because something is going to go horribly wrong, and someone is going to have to pay the price. If you don't believe me, just ask Major Tim Zanetti, the star of DC Comics' new series, Breach.
Major Zanetti obviously did not read enough comics, because he is crazy enough to get involved in Project Otherside. In 1983, Tim is a happily married father with a great life ahead of him and big plans for the future. He is also one of the top military men guiding Project Otherside, which involves colliding protons in an attempt to breach the membrane that separates the dimensions. This sounds plenty dangerous enough as is, but throw in an attempt to rush ahead of the Soviets with this technology and some possible Cold War skullduggery under the surface, and you have all the ingredients needed for a grade A disaster.
Of course, the Project goes hideously wrong, and the results for Tim Zanetti are far from pretty. In 2005, Tim comes out of a coma to find himself something far from human. In the first two issues of the series, it is hinted that Tim now has an amazing amount of power but it comes at a very high price. He can't be touched (Really, touching him makes icky things happen to you!), he glows in the dark, and his brain is being rewritten, making him something very different from the man he once was. The Army still seems to have some sneaky plans for Tim, which also seem destined for disaster.
Breach is written by Bob Harras, with pencils by Marcos Martin. Harras has loads of super-hero experience, and it shows in this title. All the ingredients are in place for a great series filled with conspiracies and angst galore. Breach also seems set to become an important new player in the DC Universe. Martin's pencils are simple, but effective. His work here is very reminiscent of Mike Allred, with a little less of the retro flavor.
Check out Breach now, while the first two issues are on the rack and guaranteed as Four Color Fantasies' Book(s) of the Week! Just remember, please, do NOT attempt to open dimensional gateways in your own home. The folks who tried it in Breach were professionals, and look what happened to them.
Major Zanetti obviously did not read enough comics, because he is crazy enough to get involved in Project Otherside. In 1983, Tim is a happily married father with a great life ahead of him and big plans for the future. He is also one of the top military men guiding Project Otherside, which involves colliding protons in an attempt to breach the membrane that separates the dimensions. This sounds plenty dangerous enough as is, but throw in an attempt to rush ahead of the Soviets with this technology and some possible Cold War skullduggery under the surface, and you have all the ingredients needed for a grade A disaster.
Of course, the Project goes hideously wrong, and the results for Tim Zanetti are far from pretty. In 2005, Tim comes out of a coma to find himself something far from human. In the first two issues of the series, it is hinted that Tim now has an amazing amount of power but it comes at a very high price. He can't be touched (Really, touching him makes icky things happen to you!), he glows in the dark, and his brain is being rewritten, making him something very different from the man he once was. The Army still seems to have some sneaky plans for Tim, which also seem destined for disaster.
Breach is written by Bob Harras, with pencils by Marcos Martin. Harras has loads of super-hero experience, and it shows in this title. All the ingredients are in place for a great series filled with conspiracies and angst galore. Breach also seems set to become an important new player in the DC Universe. Martin's pencils are simple, but effective. His work here is very reminiscent of Mike Allred, with a little less of the retro flavor.
Check out Breach now, while the first two issues are on the rack and guaranteed as Four Color Fantasies' Book(s) of the Week! Just remember, please, do NOT attempt to open dimensional gateways in your own home. The folks who tried it in Breach were professionals, and look what happened to them.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Fresh Faces for a Fresh Appeal: Young Avengers #1
Life has been kinda rough for "Earth's Mightiest Heroes" lately. First, the Avenger's Mansion got blown up and so did some of the Avengers who were unlucky enough to be hanging out there. Then, a whole bunch of crazy Scarlet Witch-related weirdness went down, and the team finally decided to call it a day and disband. Now, a bunch of upstart kids in wannabe hero costumes show up and get themselves named the "Young Avengers."
Young Avengers #1 is the start of a new series written by acclaimed TV writer Allan (The O.C.) Heinberg and drawn by Marvel Young Gun Jim Cheung. This title is spun out of the events of Avengers Disassembled but it can be enjoyed even if you have never read any other Avengers comics. Though the idea of teen heroes is certainly not a new one, Heinberg and Cheung are clearly going to be putting some pretty fresh ideas into this book. The Young Avengers are (as the cover says) "NOT what you think."
On the surface, the Young Avengers are four teen super-hero fanboys who have somehow gotten powers and gadgets that are quite a bit like those of some well-known Avengers. Their names (which everyone in the book thinks are just a bit goofy) are Iron Lad, Hulkling, Patriot and Asgardian. These youngsters are new to the super-hero scene, and their inexperience shows in their first public outings. Even though this is a group of kids with some serious cases of hero-worship, the group does have a purpose, a very surprising purpose considering the shocking and perplexing revelation on the last page---
Heinberg is new to comics (as a writer, not as a fan), but he starts off strong with this first issue. There is a lot of humor in Young Avengers, and much of that humor comes from Heinberg's clever dialogue. There is plenty of action, and plot twists galore. And the surprising ending (Don't turn to the back of the book first!) will leave readers anxious for the next issue. Heinberg was also a huge fan of Bendis' Alias series, so this book features a big role for one of Marvel's coolest characters-Jessica Jones.
Young Avengers #1 could be the start of Marvel's Next Big Thing. It is a fun read, with pretty pictures and some very intriguing new characters. Don't miss out on the first issue, or you might find yourself paying 20 bucks for it on eBay 6 months from now. Besides, you can't go wrong since it comes with Four Color Fantasies' Book of the Week money-back guarantee!
Young Avengers #1 is the start of a new series written by acclaimed TV writer Allan (The O.C.) Heinberg and drawn by Marvel Young Gun Jim Cheung. This title is spun out of the events of Avengers Disassembled but it can be enjoyed even if you have never read any other Avengers comics. Though the idea of teen heroes is certainly not a new one, Heinberg and Cheung are clearly going to be putting some pretty fresh ideas into this book. The Young Avengers are (as the cover says) "NOT what you think."
On the surface, the Young Avengers are four teen super-hero fanboys who have somehow gotten powers and gadgets that are quite a bit like those of some well-known Avengers. Their names (which everyone in the book thinks are just a bit goofy) are Iron Lad, Hulkling, Patriot and Asgardian. These youngsters are new to the super-hero scene, and their inexperience shows in their first public outings. Even though this is a group of kids with some serious cases of hero-worship, the group does have a purpose, a very surprising purpose considering the shocking and perplexing revelation on the last page---
Heinberg is new to comics (as a writer, not as a fan), but he starts off strong with this first issue. There is a lot of humor in Young Avengers, and much of that humor comes from Heinberg's clever dialogue. There is plenty of action, and plot twists galore. And the surprising ending (Don't turn to the back of the book first!) will leave readers anxious for the next issue. Heinberg was also a huge fan of Bendis' Alias series, so this book features a big role for one of Marvel's coolest characters-Jessica Jones.
Young Avengers #1 could be the start of Marvel's Next Big Thing. It is a fun read, with pretty pictures and some very intriguing new characters. Don't miss out on the first issue, or you might find yourself paying 20 bucks for it on eBay 6 months from now. Besides, you can't go wrong since it comes with Four Color Fantasies' Book of the Week money-back guarantee!
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
The Return of First Comics' Hero: GrimJack - Killer Instinct #1
Long ago, in the olden days (you know, the '80s) there was a company called First Comics. First was a really neato company that published some really good books. Many of First's comics were unique and original concepts with titles like "Whisper," "Dynamo Joe," "Mars," and many, many more. When First Comics went out of business, lots of really excellent comics came to an end. I think it is safe to say that one of First's most highly-regarded and respected books was
GrimJack.
If you have been waiting thirteen years for GrimJack to return, your wait is finally over! If you have never heard of GrimJack before, this new series is designed to give you everything you need to hop on and enjoy the ride. The original series creators, John Ostrander and Tim Truman, are both back and they have been waiting a long time to tell more tales of life in the multi-dimensional city of Cynosure. And these guys are both known for quality work, so when they put their all into a new series, you can bet it's gonna be good.
John Gaunt, AKA GrimJack, fought his way out of the Arena to become a cop on the Trans-Dimensional Police force. His bad-attitude and insubordinate behavior quickly take him off that career path (Gaunt will NOT be invited to the Policeman's Ball). Soon after leaving the TDP, Gaunt is recruited as a founding member of the much shadier, and less rule-bound, Cadre. The story of GrimJack: Killer Instinct #1 mostly takes place when the best days of the Cadre are behind them, and Gaunt is forced to run missions with a bunch of new recruits. You can probably guess that things don't go well.
Gaunt is one tough, grizzled hunk of mean. He makes Wolverine look like a mama's boy. Tim Truman's art is perfectly suited to show off Gaunt's rough edges, and the dark city he calls home. Ostrander's story wastes no time getting to the action. In no time at all, readers are thrown into Cynosure watching John do what he does best. (Which is hurt people with a wide assortment of swords, guns, and cudgels, by the way.) There is plenty of story to go with the action, and Ostrander makes Gaunt an immediately likable anti-hero.
Killer Instinct #1 is a great start to the revival of this classic series. The story is action-packed, and the world of Cynosure presents endless possibilites. If you like tough guy, no-nonsense heroes who don't take no guff, you will love John Gaunt. Don't miss out! Try GrimJack now while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. (If you don't give this book a try, Mike may get mad and start hiding all your X-Men comics. Don't risk it. Buy the book!)
GrimJack.
If you have been waiting thirteen years for GrimJack to return, your wait is finally over! If you have never heard of GrimJack before, this new series is designed to give you everything you need to hop on and enjoy the ride. The original series creators, John Ostrander and Tim Truman, are both back and they have been waiting a long time to tell more tales of life in the multi-dimensional city of Cynosure. And these guys are both known for quality work, so when they put their all into a new series, you can bet it's gonna be good.
John Gaunt, AKA GrimJack, fought his way out of the Arena to become a cop on the Trans-Dimensional Police force. His bad-attitude and insubordinate behavior quickly take him off that career path (Gaunt will NOT be invited to the Policeman's Ball). Soon after leaving the TDP, Gaunt is recruited as a founding member of the much shadier, and less rule-bound, Cadre. The story of GrimJack: Killer Instinct #1 mostly takes place when the best days of the Cadre are behind them, and Gaunt is forced to run missions with a bunch of new recruits. You can probably guess that things don't go well.
Gaunt is one tough, grizzled hunk of mean. He makes Wolverine look like a mama's boy. Tim Truman's art is perfectly suited to show off Gaunt's rough edges, and the dark city he calls home. Ostrander's story wastes no time getting to the action. In no time at all, readers are thrown into Cynosure watching John do what he does best. (Which is hurt people with a wide assortment of swords, guns, and cudgels, by the way.) There is plenty of story to go with the action, and Ostrander makes Gaunt an immediately likable anti-hero.
Killer Instinct #1 is a great start to the revival of this classic series. The story is action-packed, and the world of Cynosure presents endless possibilites. If you like tough guy, no-nonsense heroes who don't take no guff, you will love John Gaunt. Don't miss out! Try GrimJack now while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week. (If you don't give this book a try, Mike may get mad and start hiding all your X-Men comics. Don't risk it. Buy the book!)
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Witty Parody: Hero Squared #1
When you think about it, super-heroes are kinda funny. As much as I love them, the basic concept of people who put on spandex, meet arch-enemies, and pound the stuffing out of each other while rambling philosophically about the nature of good and evil is humorous. So every once in a while, it is nice for a comic to come along and take the pompous wind out of the sails of the whole super-hero genre.
Hero Squared, by Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis, and Joe Abraham, in the grand tradition of The Tick, revels in pointing out the funny side of the super-heroic life. From the knowingly melodramatic, "Which one of these people will DIE in this issue?" on the cover, to the shocking reveal at the end, this book really plays with the super-hero stereotypes for great comedic effect. Don't get the idea that this is a mean-spirited parody though, these guys clearly love comic book super-heroes as much as the rest of us, and the jokes are more like good-natured ribbing than mocking jabs.
Our hero, a slacker of the first order named Milo, is stuck in a rut and his life is going pretty much nowhere. He is too busy being an "artiste" to lower himself to taking a real, paying job. His relationship with his "far too good for him" girlfriend is going nowhere, and even his loser best friend is criticizing his life choices. Milo's self-esteem does not improve when he meets another Milo from an alternate universe. You see, where our Milo has pretty much failed to achieve anything, alternate Milo became Captain Valor the greatest hero of his universe. If only our Milo hadn't skipped out on that 10th grade field trip---
As you might expect, both the plot and the dialogue by DeMatteis and Giffen are all-around excellent. The interplay between the two Milos is hilarious, and this is not a comic that you will breeze through in 10 minutes time. There is plenty to digest and ponder on these pages. Abraham's art is simple and easy to follow, and he does a great job with the subtle differences between plain old Milo and Captain Valor.
If you like your super-hero comics with a bit of humor, you will love Hero Squared. This comic is worth reading for the villain's pathetic sidekick alone. Plus, you'll learn new words like calumny and keglers, proving that comics can be fun AND educational. Try out Hero Squared #1 now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!
Hero Squared, by Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis, and Joe Abraham, in the grand tradition of The Tick, revels in pointing out the funny side of the super-heroic life. From the knowingly melodramatic, "Which one of these people will DIE in this issue?" on the cover, to the shocking reveal at the end, this book really plays with the super-hero stereotypes for great comedic effect. Don't get the idea that this is a mean-spirited parody though, these guys clearly love comic book super-heroes as much as the rest of us, and the jokes are more like good-natured ribbing than mocking jabs.
Our hero, a slacker of the first order named Milo, is stuck in a rut and his life is going pretty much nowhere. He is too busy being an "artiste" to lower himself to taking a real, paying job. His relationship with his "far too good for him" girlfriend is going nowhere, and even his loser best friend is criticizing his life choices. Milo's self-esteem does not improve when he meets another Milo from an alternate universe. You see, where our Milo has pretty much failed to achieve anything, alternate Milo became Captain Valor the greatest hero of his universe. If only our Milo hadn't skipped out on that 10th grade field trip---
As you might expect, both the plot and the dialogue by DeMatteis and Giffen are all-around excellent. The interplay between the two Milos is hilarious, and this is not a comic that you will breeze through in 10 minutes time. There is plenty to digest and ponder on these pages. Abraham's art is simple and easy to follow, and he does a great job with the subtle differences between plain old Milo and Captain Valor.
If you like your super-hero comics with a bit of humor, you will love Hero Squared. This comic is worth reading for the villain's pathetic sidekick alone. Plus, you'll learn new words like calumny and keglers, proving that comics can be fun AND educational. Try out Hero Squared #1 now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!
Friday, January 21, 2005
Stormbreaker: The Saga of Beta Ray Bill
First things first-of all the many characters who inhabit the Marvel Universe, Beta Ray Bill has, by far, the coolest name. It's just fun to say. Go ahead, give it a try. Don't be shy, say it good and loud a few times: "Beta Ray Bill, Beta Ray Bill, Beta Ray Bill!" Fun, huh?
In case you don't know about Bill, he was introduced many eons ago during Walt Simonson's justly praised run on Thor. Bill, a somewhat horse-faced alien, was one of the very few characters ever actually deemed worthy enough to pick up Thor's hammer, Mjolnir. Because he needed Mjolnir to save his people, the Korbinite, Bill and Thor fought (How else do heroes make important decisions?) to see who should have the hammer. Bill whipped Thor's hinder, but cool pappa Odin made Bill a hammer of his own, called Stormbreaker. Bill and Thor became best-buddies, and went on to hit many things with hammers together.
Stormbreaker: The Saga of Beta Ray Bill takes place just after Bill witnesses the utter destruction of Thor, Asgard, and all Asgardians at Ragnarock. Having had one of the worst days ever, Bill heads home to find his people locked in battle with a horrific and powerful alien menace. (Surprise guest star!) As if that wasn't bad enough, Bill's predecessor, Alpha Ray, has been awakened for battle. As you can probably guess, Alpha and Beta don't get along too well. Bill faces threats from all sides, and he can no longer rely on his adopted Asgardian brother to lend a helping hand.
Stormbreaker is written by Michael Avon Oeming and Dan Berman, with art by Andrea DiVito. Oeming is better known as the artist of Powers, but he was also the architect of the recent Ragnarock story-so he knows his Asgardians. DiVito's art is perfect for this title. The characters look powerful, and the combat and cosmic scenery are equally impressive.
If you miss Thor, if you like epic battles and planetary destruction, or if you just like horse-faced aliens pounding on things with magical hammers, you will love Stormbreaker: The Saga of Beta Ray Bill. You can't go wrong, since the first issue is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! This book is worth the price, just so you have an excuse to say, "Beta Ray Bill" as often as you please. (Warning: saying Beta Ray Bill repeatedly in public may make people think you've finally "gone funny.")
In case you don't know about Bill, he was introduced many eons ago during Walt Simonson's justly praised run on Thor. Bill, a somewhat horse-faced alien, was one of the very few characters ever actually deemed worthy enough to pick up Thor's hammer, Mjolnir. Because he needed Mjolnir to save his people, the Korbinite, Bill and Thor fought (How else do heroes make important decisions?) to see who should have the hammer. Bill whipped Thor's hinder, but cool pappa Odin made Bill a hammer of his own, called Stormbreaker. Bill and Thor became best-buddies, and went on to hit many things with hammers together.
Stormbreaker: The Saga of Beta Ray Bill takes place just after Bill witnesses the utter destruction of Thor, Asgard, and all Asgardians at Ragnarock. Having had one of the worst days ever, Bill heads home to find his people locked in battle with a horrific and powerful alien menace. (Surprise guest star!) As if that wasn't bad enough, Bill's predecessor, Alpha Ray, has been awakened for battle. As you can probably guess, Alpha and Beta don't get along too well. Bill faces threats from all sides, and he can no longer rely on his adopted Asgardian brother to lend a helping hand.
Stormbreaker is written by Michael Avon Oeming and Dan Berman, with art by Andrea DiVito. Oeming is better known as the artist of Powers, but he was also the architect of the recent Ragnarock story-so he knows his Asgardians. DiVito's art is perfect for this title. The characters look powerful, and the combat and cosmic scenery are equally impressive.
If you miss Thor, if you like epic battles and planetary destruction, or if you just like horse-faced aliens pounding on things with magical hammers, you will love Stormbreaker: The Saga of Beta Ray Bill. You can't go wrong, since the first issue is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week! This book is worth the price, just so you have an excuse to say, "Beta Ray Bill" as often as you please. (Warning: saying Beta Ray Bill repeatedly in public may make people think you've finally "gone funny.")
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
No excuses, Plain fun: Marvel Team-Up #4
One of the coolest things about super-hero comics is the whole shared universe concept. There is just nothing better than having your two favorite super-guys meet, whale on each other a bit, and then work together to takedown an invading alien armada or a fifty foot slug-monster. That's why Marvel's new Marvel Team-up (or MTU, as the hip kids call it) is so much fun.
I admit, I loved the old Marvel Team-Up. No matter how flimsy the excuse for Spider-Man and Iron Fist to meet, fight, and team-up, I was there for the ride. OK, after 100 issues or so, it did start to seem a little forced but I never let that get in the way of the fun. And fun is really the focus of this series!
The beauty of this new series is that writer Robert Kirkman (the super-genius behind Walking Dead and Invincible) and artist Scott Kolins do not take the easy way out. They don't just randomly pick some second-rate hero to stick with Spider-Man and send them off to fight Mole Man or a washed-up X-Men villain. Kirkman has put together an ongoing storyline that really takes advantage of the shared-world idea. Different heroes meet, get entangled in the plot, and then move on to let someone else get the spotlight.
Kirkman clearly loves the Marvel U, and all the nifty characters he can play with. (And he writes them very well!) This series has already featured Spider-Man, Wolverine, Doctor Strange, the Fantastic Four, Iron Man (sort of), and the Hulk. Plus, there have been cool cameos like Nova, Willy Lumpkin, and many more cleverly worked into the background by Kolins. Any other creative team would be content with that line-up, but not these guys! They have also created some original, and mysterious, villains to throw into the mix. All in only the first four issues! (Don't worry though, you can easily jump in at any point.)
If you miss the days of super-hero comics that are just plain fun, then you will love Marvel Team-Up. The humor, action, and mystery are non-stop. Heroes punch each other! Things blow up! Aliens do mysterious things! What's not to like? Do yourself a favor and try out MTU #4 now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!
I admit, I loved the old Marvel Team-Up. No matter how flimsy the excuse for Spider-Man and Iron Fist to meet, fight, and team-up, I was there for the ride. OK, after 100 issues or so, it did start to seem a little forced but I never let that get in the way of the fun. And fun is really the focus of this series!
The beauty of this new series is that writer Robert Kirkman (the super-genius behind Walking Dead and Invincible) and artist Scott Kolins do not take the easy way out. They don't just randomly pick some second-rate hero to stick with Spider-Man and send them off to fight Mole Man or a washed-up X-Men villain. Kirkman has put together an ongoing storyline that really takes advantage of the shared-world idea. Different heroes meet, get entangled in the plot, and then move on to let someone else get the spotlight.
Kirkman clearly loves the Marvel U, and all the nifty characters he can play with. (And he writes them very well!) This series has already featured Spider-Man, Wolverine, Doctor Strange, the Fantastic Four, Iron Man (sort of), and the Hulk. Plus, there have been cool cameos like Nova, Willy Lumpkin, and many more cleverly worked into the background by Kolins. Any other creative team would be content with that line-up, but not these guys! They have also created some original, and mysterious, villains to throw into the mix. All in only the first four issues! (Don't worry though, you can easily jump in at any point.)
If you miss the days of super-hero comics that are just plain fun, then you will love Marvel Team-Up. The humor, action, and mystery are non-stop. Heroes punch each other! Things blow up! Aliens do mysterious things! What's not to like? Do yourself a favor and try out MTU #4 now, while it is Four Color Fantasies' guaranteed Book of the Week!
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
David returns: Incredible Hulk #77
You just can't go wrong with any comic that starts out with a giant, green man walking along the bottom of the ocean, punching sharks, and munching on the remains like Henry VIII with a turkey leg. I mean, how often do you see that? All too rarely, I say.
Of course, shark mangling is not the only cool thing about Incredible Hulk #77. This issue marks the return of Peter David as the Hulk's writer. To many fans, myself included, David (who wrote the Hulk for something like 12 years) is THE Hulk writer. Years ago, he took a character that most people thought was dead in the water and turned him into one of Marvel's biggest stars. Peter David really knows the Hulk, and it shows in his return to the character.
In this issue, Tempest Fugit-part 1, David quickly delves into what makes the Hulk tick. We see glimpses of Bruce Banner's past and how Banner, past and present, is connected to the Hulk. The way Banner and the Hulk relate to, and deal with, one another is a big part of what makes this character so interesting. David understands that, and it shows in this story. (By the way, this storyline is loosely based on Shakespeare's The Tempest, so you can claim you are gettin' an edumacation while reading this!)
The art by Lee Weeks is also excellent. The Hulk looks huge, powerful and grumpy. (Plus, he DOES wear purple pants. Where does Banner buy those elastic, purple pants?) The underwater action scenes have an impressive scale, and Weeks draws one mean squid-monster.
Incredible Hulk #77 has great hulk-out action, a cool story, pretty pictures and a cliffhanger ending that will make you say, "What the ----?" You can't go wrong! Not only that, but this week Hulk #77 is Four Color Fantasies Guaranteed Book of the Week. Trust me, it's worth cover price for the shark-mangling alone!
Of course, shark mangling is not the only cool thing about Incredible Hulk #77. This issue marks the return of Peter David as the Hulk's writer. To many fans, myself included, David (who wrote the Hulk for something like 12 years) is THE Hulk writer. Years ago, he took a character that most people thought was dead in the water and turned him into one of Marvel's biggest stars. Peter David really knows the Hulk, and it shows in his return to the character.
In this issue, Tempest Fugit-part 1, David quickly delves into what makes the Hulk tick. We see glimpses of Bruce Banner's past and how Banner, past and present, is connected to the Hulk. The way Banner and the Hulk relate to, and deal with, one another is a big part of what makes this character so interesting. David understands that, and it shows in this story. (By the way, this storyline is loosely based on Shakespeare's The Tempest, so you can claim you are gettin' an edumacation while reading this!)
The art by Lee Weeks is also excellent. The Hulk looks huge, powerful and grumpy. (Plus, he DOES wear purple pants. Where does Banner buy those elastic, purple pants?) The underwater action scenes have an impressive scale, and Weeks draws one mean squid-monster.
Incredible Hulk #77 has great hulk-out action, a cool story, pretty pictures and a cliffhanger ending that will make you say, "What the ----?" You can't go wrong! Not only that, but this week Hulk #77 is Four Color Fantasies Guaranteed Book of the Week. Trust me, it's worth cover price for the shark-mangling alone!
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