Ultimate X-men Annual # 2 Review

AUTHOR: ROBERT KIRKMAN
ARTIST: SALVADOR LARROCA
COLORED BY: JASON KEITH
COVER: SALVADOR LARROCA

I really can't believe that after a few years of being absent from the market, Annuals have made it back to the slimy (you don't want to know what I was doing at the time) hands of collectors. I was never a big fan of them to begin with, well unless Arthur Adams was drawing it, then that is a completely different ball game. For years the annuals just became a place for new blood to break in to the business and the stories never impacted the actual continuity of the book.

Last year the first Ultimate X-men annual was released and it was pretty damn good. It was a one-shot touching story about Gambit and Rogue on the road and fighting the Juggernaut. It ended with the big surprising death of Gambit and Rogue absorbing his powers and personality permanently. This year, however Kirkman really doesn't use the one-shot story that effects continuity in the long run formula. For some reason the story is a direct follow up to the Magic storyline going on in the recent arc of Ultimate X-men, except we haven't read the fucking finale yet, so it may spoil some things.

Nightcrawler has some flashbacks about his Weapon X days and some assassination he was part of. I don't know if Kirkman is trying to make us believe that Nightcrawler is just weapon ready to kick in at any minute or what? Because I don't think he needed that fucking flashback to makes us believe that is what he is trying to do. As Dazzler wakes up from her coma Nightcrawler greets her and takes her away from the hospital and his teammates are forced to confront him. During all this Rogue is talking to Xavier about the shift in her powers and we get an overly long fight and Rogue's developments that just seemed too convenient.

This year's annual came out of left field because Nightcrawler although a bit of a prick has never shown any signs of being a threat to the team. Nightcrawler has never exhibited these kinds of personalities. If you ask me Kirkman is destroying the character of Nightcrawler before we even got to see his true personality develop. Don't get me started on the two page origin of Professor X's cat Mystique. It really doesn't make much sense and kills the interest and secret behind the name which to me was always the cat's charm and now I just don't give a damn.

I wish I could say the art really saved this book from a bad rating, but the colors really took a toll on Salvador's artwork. They are bland and lifeless to say the least, I believe if Keith would have toned it down a bit, it might have worked. But Larroca is always easy to follow from panel to panel, which for some reason I can't say about Leinil Francis Yu, who draws the origin of Mystique. His art was hard to read and follow, which sometimes works to his advantage during fantastic over-the-top action sequences, but not on a story of a cat. I hate to see stories like this come from the regular writer on the book, because so far he hasn't shown any weaknesses on the monthly. D+

Teen Titans # 38 Review

This Review Was Submitted The Dude:

Writer: Geoff Johns
Pencils: Carlos Ferreira

Ok, if you all have listened to the podcast once or twice you know I LOVE Johns/Daniels run of Teen Titans, some would say to an unhealthy degree, which is why it pains me to even write this review. Delayed already issue 38 of Teen Titans came out this week. At first glance I saw the Tony Daniels cover and assumed naturally he was doing the rest of it.....what the...what the heck is this crap. Why does Wonder Girl look like Dolly Freaking Parton, what the heck is up with Robin's hair on that first page. Yes folks to my dismay Daniels just did the cover and they got Carlos Ferreira doing the rest of the artwork. With all due respect to Mr. Ferreiras' style STAY AWAY FROM TEEN TITANS. Every single freaking page made me wanna start running out into the streets screaming, and not in a good, I WON THE LOTTERY, way.

Firstly Geoff Johns was great, let me just get that outta the way, there is not a thing wrong with the writing whatsoever. Ok now that I have gotten that outta the way...the art. Ferreira's style is reminscent of John Byrnes' ala Blood of the Demon, this is not a good thing to me. First off there is one giant thing missing from all of the art in this issue, DETAIL. Facial expressions seem bare at times and I kept having images of flight safety cartoons going through my head as I looked at this issue. Ok so what else? Hair; apparently everybody is having a bad hair day and in the case of Red Star he goes temporarily bald in one panel even. One other thing that you notice from time to time is that the Teen Titans have apparently been putting on the pounds, especially in the face, (see page 26 and 27). I know all of this stuff seems nitpicky but, when the art gets to the point to where I almost put the issue down, that's not a good sign. In closing I thought this book was ok but, likely could have been better with Tony Daniels doing the art, this is just not a book Ferreira's style gels well with, least not at the moment. C+

Superman/Batman # 29 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk:

Writer: Mark Verheiden
Artist: Ethan Van Sciver

This new arc by Mark Verheiden is not fantastic, but it is head and shoulders above Jeph Loeb's last arc on the book. The shape-shifter from the last issue is still prevalent, but is not so dangerous in this issue. Rather, we see the Green Lanterns go nuts, similar to the rings being corrupted in Rebirth. I hope it’s not Parallax again. John Stewart is examining his ring in a lab (where the hell's he been in the DCU?) when he is attacked by another Lantern. Hal Jordan has been taken over, but while fighting Superman he realizes the problem with his ring, and through his willpower is able to stop the mind-control and take it off. Proving that Hal is the best Lantern.. blah blah blah... I still love Kyle. What is strong in this issue is the characterization of Batman. We don't get a lot of Superman in this issue. Also, I am liking Alfred's beginning narration at the beginning of each issue. Martian Manhunter (the real one) appears in his new alien getup and is a total ass to Batman. Batman, who has maybe been one of Jonn's best friends for his entire time on earth. Since when is Jonn such an asshole? Since we decided to give him his new look and new attitude?

Speaking of badass, we have to talk about Ethan Van Sciver. Like Pete Woods (read my Action comics review) Ethan Van Sciver deserves to be a superstar artist like Jim Lee. His art is amazing, and every time I look at it I find something new to love. His art is finely detailed, his linework is so specific, and he can master both light and shadows. I love his drawings of Martian Manhunter and Batman. Martian Manhunter looks like an asshole, he looks mean. Batman looks like a man dressed as a Bat. You can see the Human physique, that there is a human head underneath the cowl, that he is only a man. Another thing I like about Van Sciver drawing Batman is that he draws the cape like bat-wings hanging down off Bruce's shoulders. It feels like that at any time, Bruce could pick up his cape, spread his arms, and scare the crap out of anyone up against him by creating the Bat silhouette. I liked this issue's art more than the writing, but it is a worthwhile read with a big priceless moment at the end. See that below. C+/B-

Action Comics # 842 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk:

Writers: Kurt Busiek & Fabian Nicieza
Artist: Pete Woods

Another solid issue of Action Comics! Superman is back and facing off against the Aquisitioner! And he ends up getting himself captured! On the Aquisitioner's ship, Superman is powerless. We discover that other meta-humans have been captured as well as Superman. They are all powerless. Grouped in a random fashion, Superman must team up with some very obscure heroes (Skyrocket, Live Wire, Veteran, and Blue Jay? Who the hell is Blue Jay?) and a villain to escape the ship and stop all of Earth's treasures from being stolen. The new Aquaman, Nightwing, and Firestorm also join Superman's forces inside the alien ship. The heroes find a way to contact the earth and broadcast their conversation to the entire planet, not just Mr. Terrific. Since when does Nightwing know Tameranean? I know he's screwed Starfire but how does he know her whole language instead of just its dirty words? Superman takes charge and shoes to the world that he does not need powers to be super, proving him the leader many doubt him to be.

The overall story may be a little weak compared to what we have seen recently, but it’s the execution and character interactions that make this issue great. Put Kurt Busiek on Nightwing, he writes him great! Also, this is the first time I've seen the new Aquaman, being that I don't read his book. You can tell from the characterization in the few panels he speaks that this new Aquaman is new, young, and looks to Superman as a leader, as well as choking on air. All that in a few lines of dialogue. Pete Woods is a superstar artist in my mind. I like him drawing Superman, I want to see more! Put him on a team book, JLA or JSA once the new artists run out. I love his work. So in keeping with the adage "Less is more," I'll stop gushing over his art. Get this book. B+

The picture that is worth a thousand words?

This is a picture that has been going around the net for a week now. Perhaps it is the reason for the delay of Civil War or it may just be a hoax. Anyway it's a bit of a spoiler and its a spoiler that pisses me off! So be pissed off with me if you want.
Click here to see the picture.

Picture of the week!

This is another great find by Joshiebear! And here is what he says:

Ok, so it's important here that you know that this is from Jay Pinkerton's
website, jaypinkerton.com . The guy is hilarious and you should really check
them out (look for the batman / superman origin comics, they had me crying
they were so funny). Anyway, This strip manipulates a few of my idols at
Gotham Public Works (GPW). Enjoy!

Batman and the Monster Men Trade Paperback

This Review Submitted by Brent K.

Writer: Matt Wagner
Artist: Matt Wagner

When the issues first came out, I was hearing and reading good things about this mini-series. It being only a mini, I decided to wait for the trade and save myself a few dollars. I love Matt Wagner's covers on the DC books, I read and liked his "Trinity" mini-series about the big 3, so my interest was peaked. Now that I have read the story, I'm almost left wondering... why?

Matt Wagner has crafted a very capable Batman tale. Good, but not great. Wagner aims to look back on Batman's past and give new life into Professor Hugo Strange. He succeeds here, although barely. Reading this, it felt like Matt Wagner was trying to fit too many things into the story. Its the multiple storylines that kept me from enjoying this book as much as I should have. We follow Batman, Hugo Strange, Jim Gordon, Julie Madison, and her father Mr. Madison. Each of these characters not only has their own sequences in each issue, but also their own narration boxes, and the colors of each character's narration is not consistent throughout the whole trade, ruining what might have led to easy character-color associations. Batman's narration boxes were the only consistent ones in the entire storyline. With all of these point of views, we get a confusing narrative. Wagner jumps from person to person in one page, instead of over two separate pages. Waiting a panel would have made the story flow much better.

Speaking of the story, I'm never afraid for Batman from the Monster Men threat, I know that he will defeat them, and as villians for Batman, they pale in comparison to others in his gallery. The Monster Men are products of Hugo Strange and genetic engineering, but they are merely dumb Frankenstien monsters. Lots of "Yaaaarrgh's" and grunts. They might as well be wearing red shirts on Star Trek. There was a Batman: Animated Series episode where Catwoman was captured and genetically manipulated into a cat-creature along with another human. In the episode, Catwoman and the other creature kept their human intelligence. When Batman shows up to rescue Catwoman, he must first face the other cat-creature. The fight is spectacular because not only is the cat-creature bigger, faster, and stronger than Batman, he can think like a human as well. The Monster Men never achieve this threat level because they are mindless creatures. Hugo Strange manages to improve upon his Monster Men, but the newest incarnation is only less-ugly and does not display any intelligence, and thus does not raise the threat to Batman.

The best elements of Wagner's story are the Bruce Wayne and girlfriend moments where Bruce tries to have a life outside of his night-job, and actually thinks that one day, he will win his crusade. Its a very young and naive Batman, but Wagner does not develop much of this storyline because he has the other 5 or 6 storylines to tell also. If this was supposed to be a Year 1.5 or Year Two tale, Wagner should have explored the naiive Batman/Bruce more. Wagner also draws heavily on Year One and the Long Halloween by recycling gangsters Sal Maroni and Carmine "the Roman" Falcone. In the other two stories, these are developed characters, but Wagner just uses them to place his story in the early Batman time-frame. These characters are nothing more than time-stamps for this story. Wagner would have done better to leave these characters as single-page cameo appearances, rather than the multi-issues they appear in, and developed his main plot more. Hugo Strange is a genetic engineer but what is he looking for? How did he create the Monster Men? Are they accidents or are they his purpose? Also, Hugo Strange unleashes his creatures over money. Money. Whoopee. Hasn't this been done in Batman before? Yes, and done better than this. See Batman: Year One and Long Halloween, specifically.

The only thing that saves the book is Wagner's art. Wagner is no Jim Lee, but his simplicity adds to the "early" feel of the book. He can stage his panels and action scenes beautifully, and his expressions are great too. It's not realistic or detailed art, like most modern comic-book artists (somewhat), but it is still GOOD classic comic book art. That's what this book is. GOOD, but not great. Capable, but not re-defining of the character. I wonder if this will read better when read next to its upcoming companion Batman and the Mad Monk. If you waited for the trade on this book, pick it up, its only $15, this looks to be a slow week DC wise. If you're looking for a great early Batman story to compete with Year One or Long Halloween, look elsewhere, this book is merely OK. C-

Ultimate Spider-Man #97-99

“The Clone Saga”
Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artist: Mark Bagley and John Dell
Covers: Bagley and Richard Isanove

Chris says, "A fitting timing with the podcast just going up, here is Spider-Ben's review of the book that he was reading in the car that freaked him out so much his dad thought he was having a heart attack."
Greeting Spider-Fans! Your friendly neighborhood Spider-Ben here, kicking off a review of the current ultimate Spidey story, the Clone Saga. You heard me right amigos, the ultimate clone saga is here! For those of you in the dark, the clone saga is one of the darkest and most frowned upon spider arcs of all time. In fact, in the very back of my closet I have a long box marked “The Clone Saga. Proceed with Caution!” I kid you not, even this arc made me very pissed and sad.

But enough about that dark time in Spidey history, let’s get to the fun. Bendis is never one to shy away from a challenge. So when he was dared to try and ultimize the clone saga, he accepted. Boy, am I glad he did! In just three issues Bendis and Bagley have taken a terrible story and created ultimate comic goodness! Our story starts off with Peter and MJ starting to hang and become friends again. This really steams of Kitty Pryde, Spidey’s new lady. Peter and MJ go to the mall to talk and chill, when the Ultimate Scorpion arrives trashing the place. Peter goes off into battle and MJ seeks safety. Peter is shocked to discover that the Scorpion’s true identity is none
other than Peter Parker!

Having a serious panic attack, Spidey takes the Scorpion to the Fantastic Four. The FF agree to help him but are confused about why Peter Parker as Scorpion is freaking Spidey out. Spidey decides to unmask and tell his friends that he is the true Peter Parker! The FF realize this is a big deal, but Peter begs them not to call Nick Fury. The FF agree and Peter departs, trying to calm down and figure things out.

Meanwhile, MJ comes home and goes to her room. She is abducted by an unseen figure. The figure takes her to
an abandoned Oscorp factory and places her in a glass prison. MJ is panicking, but the figure tells her that he is going to make sure she is always safe and never in danger. MJ doesn’t understand and the figure tells her they are made for one another. The figure then states that she is always in danger because of him, but he can engineer a way to make sure she is never in danger and be his perfect and compatible mate. The figure walks out into the light and we see Peter Parker. Only this Peter has one fugly face! Half his face is scarred and torn. Perhaps this is Ultimate Kaine?

Peter races home freaking out. Aunt May tells him MJ has been kidnapped. Peter goes crazy and races out the
door looking for her. He goes to their old meeting place in a hidden warehouse. There, Peter comes face to face with some Spider-Woman. The Spider-Woman tells him that they are victims and things shouldn’t have been like this. Peter freaks and fights her, wanting to know what’s going on and where MJ is. Spider-Woman defeats Peter without really hurting him, but Peter is more confused than ever. He then races to his old house, and to his horror he finds Gwen Stacy alive andwell.

Peter thinks he has lost his marbles and tells Gwen she died by the hands of Carnage. After touching her (No, I’m not being dirty. He just feels her face to make sure she isn’t some hallucination) he realizes this is Gwen. The two talk and try to figure things out when Aunt May comes in. She sees Gwen and freaks out. Gwen and Peter follow her to their new home, and Peter decides to come clean. He tells Aunt May he is Spider-Man. He explains how a monster called Carnage came looking for him and killed Gwen. Aunt May goes into super bitch mode and asks him to prove it. Peter clings to the wall in a scene much like the end page of Ultimate Spider-Man #1 and the middle bedroom scene from Ultimate Spidey #13. (I know, I’m so geeky I remember these scenes and what issues they appeared in!) Aunt May grows quiet and tells him to get out. She goes super bitchy and tells Peter she isn’t her son and he needs to take this thing (pointing to Gwen) and get out of her home! Suddenly, a figure walks in telling May to calm down. Richard Parker, Peter’s dad, is alive and well.

Meanwhile, the FF talk to Scorpion Peter. Let’s call him SP. SP tells them he wants to know about the zoo. The FF are clueless and they mention Spider-Man brought him in. SP goes nuts and Reed realizes SP’s tail is an illegal biograft. Reed and Sue realize this is bigger than they expected and call Nick Fury. Fury comes by and Reed explains what SP has told them. Fury grows quiet and realizes it’s time to deploy the Spider-Slayers!

Thoughts/Comments:
WOW! Holy freaking moley! These three issues have had me jumping up and down! I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, I’ve
yelled at my comic books! Heck, I almost punched Ultimate Aunt May in part three for being such a bitch, but I didn’t want to hurt my issue! (I know, I’m so geeky!) But Bendis has taken a terrible story arc from the main 616 Marvel Universe and crafted a masterpiece. I never expected to see Gwen come back. I never saw the revelation to Aunt May coming, and I sure as hell didn’t expect to see Richard Parker. Plus, Bagley is the man! His art is so stunning and perfect I’m in awe with each and every panel. This man is the “ultimate” spider artist (bad pun, but I had to say it!) and he will be sorely be missed after issue #110. All in all, these three issues get a solid A+ I
can’t wait to see what happens next!

About Heroes Episode 28

Our second interview! This week we talk to Darick Robertson, artist of The Boys! It's a fun interview, so enjoy!

Listen to About Heroes, Episode 28

New Avengers # 23 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk:

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artists: Olivier Coipel & Mark Morales

Like Wolverine this week, this is the weakest part of "New Avengers: Disassembled." This issue focuses on Spider-Woman, Jessica Drew. Nick Fury makes a return! Yeah right, like he would return in any other book besides the main Civil War book. Here, Bendis takes everything he built up in the Ronin arc and the two issue Spider-Woman arc and basically throws it away. Jessica's triple agent status? Gone. Jessica's cool Nick Fury subplot? Gone too. In 22 pages Bendis has managed to destroy everything good in the issues of New Avengers over his whole run. Can't wait to see how he salvages this coughXORNcough!!!!!! Oh yeah, and Iron Man is a real prick to Jessica. So much for not making Iron Man look like an ass. And to believe I was on his side too...

Olivier Copiel was great in House of M, I loved him on that book. But like the New Avengers Annual, he's starting to slip into a manga-eyed artist. It doesn't feel consistent. If he is going to do manga, then by god do it, but don't tease us with the pseudo-superhero art. Yuck. Oh, and what is up with the double-splash page in this issue? How do I read that in order? When Jessica talks to her Hydra handler, its 5 slim panels on a half page for two pages, with no telling way of whether to go down a half-page or over to the next. What is up? This issue gets a D, the more I write about it, the more I dislike it.

Wolverine # 45 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk:
Writer: Marc Guggenheim
Artists: Humberto Ramos & Carlos Cuezas

Like issue #42 & 43, this issue has more politicking than action. We do not get a knock-down drag out fight like last issue, but rather a journey undersea to confront Namor after he kidnaps Nitro. Iron Man returns, and Logan borrows some Iron Man armor. This is definitely the weirdest issue of the arc so far. And this strange twist into the ocean just throws the book off. Guggenheim still has a firm grip on Wolverine, and Logan is consistently written in this issue. Except for the "Honor" speech under seas. Guggenheim lost me there. I know that this arc is about who is responsible for Nitro going Supernova, hehe, but Nitro is just tossed aside in this issue, like he did not matter at all for the last three issues. Wolverine leaves Nitro in the hands of the Atlanteans. Leaves him after he gave his word not to kill him. And we never see Nitro die, so we cannot truly count him as dead.

Humberto Ramos continues his stocky-blocky Wolverine, and I'm still loving it, so too bad Omar. I always thought that Ramos' biggest strength was his facial features and expressions. To me, you have no problem telling the character's emotions, or thoughts with his art. That may be because they are so big and broad, but hey, its a comic book! Get over it! This issue, being the weakest link so far, gets a C- from me.

Batman # 656 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk:
Writer: Grant Morrison
Artists: Andy Kubert & Jesse Delperdang

Damn. Count me interested and loving it. Morrison's last issue on Batman was a little confusing, and left a lot of readers wanting. This issue, however, does deliver! Remember my complaints about Andy Kuberts art last month? Forget what I said, he shines in this issue. Did I get bored last month by Morrison's writing? Yes, but not THIS month!

Morrison continues his "Batman and Son" arc where it left off. With a sky full of Man-Bats. With Swords. I guess that makes them Ninja Man-Bats. Bruce Wayne, making a triumphant return to the DCU as THE master-pimp. I missed Bruce Wayne in the last couple years of Batman. Both Morrison and Dini are really taking Bruce and making him fun and interesting to read. Bruce is still at the same party and meets some colorful ladies. Alfred is outside reading, when he sees Kirk Langstrom and his wife thrown out of the back of a van. Langstrom is frantic, pointing to the sky. Alfred rushes into the party and throws Bruce a black briefcase. Faster than you can say "Holy Man-Bats Batman," Batman emerges from the shadows to take on the menace. Morrison gives Batman an inner dialogue as he fights, thinking, scheming, and remembering random things. This makes Batman a real person. There is no "I hear the sound of bones crunch like burnt toast" Miller-Batman narration. Another thing I loved, Batman counts down the Man-Bats as being taken down before he does it! Confident not cocky, as Batman should be.

The art is great in this issue. Andy Kubert draws the action at breakneck speed, and it never loses its excitement. Andy does not let us down here. He's found his footing and knocks this issue out of the park. The fight takes place in an art gallery, showing comic book art! All of the art has the old dot-matrix placed over it, to differentiate it from the art telling the story. Also, like any art gallery there are a few notables in the gallery. Anybody else see Jack Nicholson, Martin Scorsese, and Leonard Nimoy on page 2 panel 3? Great little touch to add to the party.

LOVE this issue. I give it an A, without a doubt. Now I'm a believer.

Justice League # 1 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk
Writer: Brad Meltzer
Artists: Ed Benes & Sandra Hope

Well..... I'm torn. I liked this issue, but I did not get what I wanted from the issue. I wanted an issue with these three things:
1. The Big Three picking the League. -- Check.
2. The League being collected. -- Partial-Check.
3. The assembled League meeting for the first time. -- Nope!

So who is on the team? From reading the issue, and not looking at the Michael Turner Variant, I can tell you, the Big Three, Green Lantern, Black Canary, Arsenal, and... Red Tornado? We also see glimpses of Vixen and Black Lightning, although they are not fully collected or inducted. My big beef is that we did not see Arsenal or Black Canary being discussed by the Big Three, so how and why are they on the team? It's not explained here.

The writing is good, Meltzer writes good discussion from the Big Three when choosing the League, and he really made me like the Red Tornado, whom, before now, I did not care about. From a new reader's point of view, Meltzer makes me feel for the Red Tornado, but for older readers, it may have even more of an impact. Already we can see that Meltzer's arc is about the Red Tornado, and what happens to him in this issue. Some good moments throughout the issue, but not what I expected.

Ed Benes is as close as we will ever get to Jim Lee drawing the JLA. Needless to say, I like Jim Lee, so I can appreciate Ed Bene's similar art style, or maybe its his inker. Right. Lots to love in this issue, but from what issue zero was, I was expecting the three things I listed at the beginning. I give this issue a B. I'm patiently waiting the next issue to get numbers 2 and 3 on my list.

Deadman # 1 Review

This Review Was Submitted by The Dude
Writer: Bruce Jones
Art/Cover: John Watkiss

Coming from DC's Vertigo you know already this book is not gonna be upbeat and happy, the fact that it's called Deadman probably doesn't help with the notion either. So what's it about? Well the very first page is an image of the universe, with quotes from Albert Einstein and Wittgenstein and then BAM 2 page spread of a 747 careening through the air a wing exploding in flames as it hits the side of a building. Weird huh. Yeah it only gets weirder throughout the book BELIEVE ME. The main focus of the story are two brothers, Brandon and Scott, both pilots. Brandon is deadheading (mind the pun) with his brother Scott. Throughout this issue you see what you can only interpret as dreams from Brandon as he is dozing slightly. You have snippets interspersed of Brandon's past, and present. Towards the end you start to realize, Brandon isn't dreaming and that in fact him and his brother are in an afterlife sort of place, going backwards in time up to the very present aka the 747's crash. Brandon's brother warns him throughout the whole journey to pass over before it's too late. Eventually you see that Brandon's body has been in a coma, one of the only people surviving the plane crash. His body eventually dies but, Brandon still crosses over to the living, which makes for a somewhat amusing scene in the hospital morgue. In the end Brandon escapes from the hospital morgue, noticing he has no pulse and apparently can't even fog up a mirror. Zombie, you say? No. Vampire maybe? not sure. Pretty much all you know at the end is that things are likely only going to get weirder.

Bruce Jones wrote this spooky little title to which upon hearing I know some groan. Do me a favor, IGNORE NIGHTWING, ok, you got that. This story as a #1 starts out better then most #1 issues anymore. Jones' writing in this title gives the reader a feeling of eeriness and maybe confusion, of reality outta whack a little maybe? Think 12 Monkey's except maybe weirder in some respects. I know, I know, this is only the first issue, still if Jones keeps up with this level of writing, your definitely gonna wanna stick around. Ok so Jones does a good job but, what about the art. You'll either love it or hate it, that's the best way to put it. John Watkiss, least in my opinion was a good fit for Jones for Deadman. The cover is neat and throughout the rest of the book Watkiss conveys Jones' feeling of slight unsteadiness. The way in which coloring is done adds to everything as throughout most of the issue your inundated with dark tones, the occasional bright explosion standing out more so. I will agree that the lines on some of Watkiss' stuff are a little thick but, hey I like it. So, is Deadman worth reading another issue of, absolutely. Forget Nightwing, read THIS. A-

Lost Series 1 Action Figures

Fans of Lost know the show returns to the airwaves this September for its third season. But before the season premier McFarlane's first wave of Lost toys will hit the market. The first wave depicts memorable scenes from the first season such as Locke messing with the hatch and Shannon sun bathing. Like most McFarlane pieces they are not actually action figures, rather more like statues and they look damn good. You can click here to see the rest of the set.

What could have been or could be!

With the popularity of the straight to DVD Marvel animated movies such as Ultimate Avengers and the upcoming Doctor Strange movie. John Delaney shows some of those ideas that never made it past preliminary posters here. That Nick Fury movie could have been as good as the David Hasselhoff movie from the 90's...maybe!

Picture of the Week

Coming at you from Joshiebear! Spanish Inquisition!!!!

Darick Robertson Interview update.

Update:
Due to schedule conflicts Darick will now be joining us for a podcast recording on Thursday. So you still have time to keep your questions to him coming and post them in the forum

End of Update

About Heroes Episode 27

It's time to catch up on some e-mail, and talk about some great independent books!

Listen to About Heroes, Episode 27

Mattel Exclusives at Target

Mattel is releasing two new exclusive sets at Target. This is the only way to get Doomsday from JLU and Batgirl. Great I'm going to end up owning 20 Supermen getting these exclusives from JLU! But that is really a nice looking Barbara Gordon Batgirl.

It really looks like Batgirl has been up all night riding the boloney pony. They should be hitting the stands by the end of the month.

The Boys

Author: Garth Ennis
Artist: Darick Robertson
Publisher: Wildstorm

Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson are back together again! Having worked in the past on such projects as Fury, The Punisher, and Born the two creators are back doing what they love best: creating fun books to read with no boundaries. The Boys is a monthly series that takes a dark and twisted look at super powers, super-people, and the men and women who make sure the world's "heroes" never go too far.

Although this book is set in the Wildstorm Universe, it’s pretty obvious that The Boys is it’s own thing like Watchmen, having its own continuity; so don’t expect to see Grifter or Majestic anytime. With a quarter-million “supes” in the world, someone's got to watch what's going on beneath all those masks and capes. That’s where The Boys come in! They are a government-funded group of operatives dedicated to keeping the supes in line.

This first issue introduces us to Hughie ( who looks a lot like Simon Pegg) and The Butcher and explores their motivation. This book is rated Mature Audiences only and let me tell you; just by reading the first issue, Ennis is really going to push the boundaries. Hell, from the first page, you know this book isn’t intended for kids. It was a really fun book to read and it’s pretty graphic not just heavy on the violence, but the language and of course some ass humpin action! I’m not sure how exactly Ennis plans to top himself after having Fury strangle a guy, with the guy’s own intestines in the Fury miniseries. But, Hugh’s motivation for joining the group is a damn good start.

It’s a great set up issue to a dark and twisted ride and I really can’t wait for more. Robertson is a phenomenal artist that understands Ennis’ vision for this world and it’s characters. The two work perfect with each other and feed off each other’s talent. Robertson’s realistic style really helps this book come to life. If you want to read a different take on superheroes I suggest picking this book up. Of course it only introduces two of the five characters, so I just wished they had introduced more. But that's just a small gripe for a book I highly recommend A- !

A Little Chatty Chat a little Snappy Snap

I know you all do this, so here is a peak at the bullshitting that Omar and I do almost on the daily. And cool picture from the chi-town con, just because...

evilomar: hey bro you up?
LostSim: you know it
LostSim: site is nice and updated
LostSim: bravo
evilomar: yeah
evilomar: any word from Ben?
LostSim: no
LostSim: you?
LostSim: I guess not if your asking
evilomar: nada
evilomar: I hope everything is going good
LostSim: yeah me too
LostSim: hopefully he'll have news tomorrow
evilomar: yeah...I hope so too.
evilomar: so are you off on Tuesday?
evilomar: and don't forget we are also doing the regular podcast on Sunday
LostSim: yeah I have work till three prolly on sunday
LostSim: and I'll know about tuesday tomorrow
LostSim: and just trade shifts with someone
evilomar: cool
LostSim: no matter what Ben is still looking forewod to the mid-ohio con
evilomar: yeah thats good to know.
LostSim: finding out that civil war is delayed and mark bagely is leaving USM may kill him though
LostSim: like seriously
evilomar: Bagley is leaving ultimate Spidey?
evilomar: what?
LostSim: its the latest on newsarama
evilomar: fucking newsarama
evilomar: I swear
evilomar: LOL
LostSim: fucking civil war people are so pissed off about it
LostSim: i think its funny
evilomar: good they should be
evilomar: I'm not enjoying the book
LostSim: yeah frill
LostSim: me neither
evilomar: but its fucking bullshit
evilomar: that they delay it
LostSim: which is why I dont really care, but I do because marvel is by far the worst at delays (of the big two)
evilomar: because it affects every other title
LostSim: I hope dc tops them in sales charts for the month
LostSim: or monthsssss between the books
evilomar: well they will for October for sure
evilomar: no Civil War book
LostSim: but than Ive always hoped that dc tops marvel
LostSim: and Im a marvel guy
LostSim: yeah
LostSim: if I were dan didio I would throw together something with Infinite Crisis-like, the lost records or some bullshit, slap a Michael Turner Cover on it and shove it out for October
evilomar: you'll be happy to read 52 15
LostSim: really?
Click here to read the rest of the convo with 52 #15 spoilers.

evilomar: hey did you go to Lex today?
LostSim: yeah I got our books we were missing
LostSim: hey this should go up on the website
LostSim: all we did was talk about books and Ben
evilomar: cool
evilomar: can't wait to read Boys
LostSim: it was AWESOME
LostSim: really good
LostSim: Im putting this on the main page of the site
evilomar: LOL, alright.
evilomar: I want to review Boys
LostSim: okay go for it
evilomar: lol
LostSim: it was really good
evilomar: yeah I know...
LostSim: Im gonna have to remember all these books that come out that I need to get in trade
evilomar: yep I will remind you.
evilomar: when I'm paying for your fucking Civil War 5!!!!
evilomar: LOL
evilomar: cause you'll be in England
LostSim: Im letting you read my Boys!
evilomar: well man I'm off to bed
LostSim: that sounds gay
LostSim: okay tty tmrw
evilomar: have a good night bro
LostSim: you too.

Ion # 5 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk

Writer: Ron Marz
Artists: Tom Grindberg & Greg Tocchini & Jay Leisten

Finally, something happens! Finally we get some answers! Quick recap, since issue 1 Kyle/Ion has been either on earth being a painter or in space killing relentlessly and not remembering either. Last issue we found out that the Kyle in space was in fact Alex Nero, a yellow-powered villain from Kyle's past. Hal Jordan and Kyle battle Nero in this issue, and we see the full power of Ion. Color me intrigued (finally). We get some subtle hints of what may come, and a cool battle. Next issue looks to be particularly interesting, as Kyle heads to Oa to ask the smurfs a big WTF?

I'm finally getting used to and partially appreciating Greg Tocchini's art. It looks better with the Green Lantern constructs and battles, but talking heads are not his strength. Ion is finally picking up, thank god. C+/B-

Robin # 153 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk

Writer: Adam Beechen
Artist: Freddie E. Williams II

The first OYL later arc was cool and interesting. This Two-parter about an armed Nuke in Gotham, guest-starring Captain Boomerang, not as cool. Our two heroes delve through every known abandoned villain hideout in search of this armed nuke, and they only have 24 hours to do it. The action and interaction between the characters is solid, but what is missing from this issue is Tim's home life with Bruce, and his interaction with his schoolmates. What makes Robin cool is that we can relate to him because he is a young kid, and sometimes when that factor is ignored, the issue does flail about like a dry fish, looking for water.

Freddie E. Williams II does a good job as usual on the title, and I can find nothing to complain about with his art. It does run on the cartoony side, but his Robin looks like a teenager and Boomerang does look older than Robin (he probably is) and there is no lack of detail in the panels. C+

Checkmate # 5 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk

Writer: Greg Rucka
Artist: Jesus Saiz

I'm on the fence with this issue, much less the whole series. The first two or three issues, I absolutely loved (Go see my old reviews!). This issue and the last issue have made me think about dropping the book to shorten my budget during college. This issue appears to be a balls to the wall action with the selection of the new Black Queen's Knight. While this issue certainly has that storyline, but it’s not as cool as one might have hoped. Most of the issue deals with Alan Scott's retirement as White King, and Mr. Terrific wanting to leave as well. Also we see some hints of future storylines with Fire and Amanda Waller and Mr. Terrific. I was going to axe the book, but right now I think I will wait and give it a few more issues for it to flourish.

Jesus Saiz's art was great in Omac Project, and the first few issues of Checkmate, but this issue did not wow me like the others have done. It felt different. No artist can be perfect every time, but with the lack of cool wow moments in this issue, there was nothing art-wise to grab me. C-

Nightwing # 123 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk

Writer: Bruce Jones
Artists: Robert Teranshi & Wes Craig

Lets start off with the worst book of the bunch! As usual, this week is NIGHTWING! After last issue's stupid and ridiculous conclusion, what good can lie in this issue? Some, in fact. Bruce Jones writes an okay story here, dealing with the aftermath of last issue. Jason Todd is gone, and Nightwing continues to talk to Cheyanne. Also making an appearance this issue is underused Clancy. What made this issue stink for me was the art. The fill in artist is bad. His storytelling is bad, his art is bad. Half the time I can't tell what is going on in the panel, and the pacing is horrible. There is no direct line of thought between panels. I think that maybe Pat Lee could draw a more coherent book than Robert Teranshi (if he really really cared and tried). The story deals with a hired Meta-human by the silly Pierce Brothers to get back at Cheyanne. Nightwing shows up, and they follow the guy to a construction site where the Pierce Brothers are. I THINK that the brothers are rebuilding their nightclub but there is nothing in the story or art to indicate that at all. Not like I cared anyway!

The one thing I liked about this issue was the scene where Nightwing talks to psychiatrist Clancy about women, and refers to Barbara. We get hints here that Dick either outgrew or changed after his near-death in Infinite Crisis, and thus led to the relationship's demise. Although in my opinion, proposing after having not been "officially together" for awhile is stupid anyway. I liked this because basically, this is the first time we've had any hint or mention of the Dick and Barbara engagement failure in any DC book. Go to the store, pick the book up off the shelf, read the 3 pages dealing with Barbara, and then proceed to place the book back on the shelf D+.

Darick Robertson on Aboutheroes!

Co-creator of Transmetropolitan and comic book artist for over 20 years Darick Robertson will be joining us in a podcast session next Tuesday afternoon. So if you listeners want to ask him anything just post it up here . He has drawn anyone from the Justice League to Wolverine; to me he draws the definitive Wolverine and I have been a personal fan of his, since his days on New Warriors. Here is a small Bio of him from his own site and if you want to check out anything he's worked on recently, just check out Boys written by Garth Ennis and published by Vertigo, it comes out today. Again you have till next Tuesday to ask him whatever is on your mind. The podcast will be up on Wednesday with his answers. And yes, we are also recording our regular podcast on Sunday. So that will be two podcasts in one week! That's to make up for the one we skip last week, see we're not like Marvel, we could come up with excuse after excuse, but we were just lazy!

Brian Hibbs on Marvel's Civil War delays

Brian Hibbs, owner of Comix Experience and regular author of The Savage Critic has an opinion about Marvel's Civil War delays that he'd like to share with you:

Look, man, this is fucked up.

CIVIL WAR has been one of the few legitimate home run hits that Marvel has had -- it is both connecting with the core Marvel reader, but it is directly and specifically bringing "back" "Lapsed" readers, and new faces to their core properties.

To have the schedule slip this badly is, flatly, unconscionable.

History shows us that when books like this start to slip, they end up with a cascade effect. I laughed when I saw the projected dates for #6 & 7 as being back on a monthly schedule after #5's big-ass delay -- that seems... unlikely? improbable? pure fiction?

Read the full post here.

So here's the thing - do you know how you, as readers, can tell Marvel (and DC, when appropriate) that late books are not acceptible? You can't just not pick them up - your local retailer has already ordered them and payed for them by that point, which is all that matters financially to the publishers. You have to remove these books from your reserve folders, and you have to tell your retailers that you don't want them, so they don't order them in the first place. Until the big two actually feel the pain of decreased orders, this is going to remain the business-as-usual policy at both. No amount of fan-bitching matters if you still pay for the damn books.

Get to know your Pat Lee.

Alright, you've heard our podcasts and you all know how we feel about Pat Lee. Well just for shits and giggles one of our listeners emailed me Pat Lee's myspace profile This could be so fun. I didn't read anywhere on his profile that he still owes creators for their work that he published at Dream Wave, because his Porshe was eating away at his funds.

Two-Face?

Acording to Imdb

Ryan Phillippe may be set to take over from Tommy Lee Jones after reportedly landing the role of Harvey Dent/Two-Face in the upcoming Batman Begins sequel. Reese Witherspoon's husband will join Heath Ledger, who has signed on to play The Joker, and new Batman Christian Bale in The Dark Knight. Crash star Phillippe beat Liev Shreiber and Josh Lucas to the role of the scheming district attorney, played by Jones in 1995 movie Batman Forever, according to internet reports. Academy Award winners Sir Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman have also joined the cast, while fellow Oscar winner Philip Seymour Hoffman is in talks to play The Penguin in the new film.

Okay so if they add Two-Face that's fine, but a third villian with the Penguin...oh shit I hope this doesn't go the way of Schumacher's Batman and Robin.

Civil War! Denied!

It seems that Marvel is pushing back the release dates on Civil War and its related titles. Civil War 4 was supposed to come out this month but will now be released on September 20th and issue 5 will be released in November. This really doesn't effect me, since I haven't been enjoying the story that much, but I still hate to see delays like this take place. Mainly I feel for the fans of the series, because these kind of delays really hurts the enthusiasm when the books finally arrive. Again there really is no excuse for delays, I always like to bring up broken-arm Mark Bagley and Erik Larsen's house burning down and both of those guys still delivered a monthly book.

I mean it's not just the two books, but every book that is effected by Civil War is going to be delayed. And I swear if the cause of the delay is that they are changing the story because everyone figured out that Mary Jane wasn't going to make it, then that's just sad. I also didn't realize how many issues of Frontline there were going to be, or how many tie-ins they had planned. The follow up to Civil War will be called Decimati....err I mean Casualties of War and will start shipping in December. Looks like we have to wait and see if the D. Blake is really Thor or a Doombot....Anyway here is the list of new shipping dates:

CIVIL WAR 4 (JUN061952; $2.99) moves to 9/20
CIVIL WAR 4 TURNER VARIANT (JUN061953; $2.99) moves to 9/20
CIVIL WAR 4 TURNER SKETCH VARIANT (APR068201; $2.00) moves to 9/20
FANTASTIC FOUR 540 (JUN061961; $2.99) moves to 9/20
CIVIL WAR FRONT LINE 6 (JUN061955; $2.99) moves to 9/27
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 535 (JUN061938; $2.99) moves to 9/27

CIVIL WAR FRONT LINE 7 (JUL061956; $2.99) moves to 10/11

CIVIL WAR 5 (JUL061952; $2.99) moves to 11/15
CIVIL WAR 5 TURNER VARIANT (JUL061953; $2.99) moves to 11/15
CIVIL WAR 5 TURNER SKETCH VARIANT (JUL061954; $2.00) moves to 11/15
CIVIL WAR FRONT LINE 8 (JUL061957; $2.99) moves to 11/22
PUNISHER WAR JOURNAL 1 (JUL061988; $2.99) moves to 11/22
PUNISHER WAR JOURNAL 1 (Black and White) (JUL061989; $2.99) moves to 11/22
FANTASTIC FOUR 541 (JUL061965; $2.99) moves to 11/22
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 536 (JUL061941; $2.99) moves to 11/22

CIVIL WAR 6 (AUG062033; $2.99) moves to 12/20
CIVIL WAR 6 TURNER VARIANT (AUG062034; $2.99) moves to 12/20
CIVIL WAR 6 TURNER SKETCH VARIANT (AUG062035; $2.00) moves to 12/20
CIVIL WAR FRONT LINE 9 (AUG062036; $2.99) moves to 12/20
PUNISHER WAR JOURNAL 2 (AUG062066; $2.99) moves to 12/28

CIVIL WAR FRONT LINE 10 (AUG062037; $2.99) moves to 1/4/07
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 537 (AUG062018; $2.99) moves to 1/4/07
FANTASTIC FOUR 542 (AUG062045; $2.99) moves to 1/4/07
CIVIL WAR 7 moves to 1/17, Not yet solicited
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 538 Not yet solicited
FANTASTIC FOUR 543 moves to 1/24/07, Not yet solicited

BLACK PANTHER 23 CW December 2006
CIVIL WAR: WAR CRIMES December 2006 ONE SHOT

BLACK PANTHER 24 CW January 2007

BLACK PANTHER 25 CW February 2007
CIVIL WAR FRONT LINE 11 February 2007

Hellboy Animated Update

With the release of the direct-to-DVD Hellboy Animated Sword of Stones movie right around the corner, well at least the premier on Cartoon Network; Producer Tad Stones has been updating the hellboyanimated website like a madman. Just click on the link to see more screen shots and pre-production material. The movie will premier on Cartoon Network of course edited on October 23rd and the DVD will be out on February 6, 2007. On second thought, I guess that's not really around the corner, but they really have some cool screen shots on the website.

Annihilation # 1 Review

Author: Keith Giffen
Artist: Andrea Divito
Colors: Laura Villari

The Annihilation has finally arrived and for some reason I seem to be more interested in reading it than the main summer event: Civil War! Using the same formula that the countdown titles to Infinite Crises used last year; it has been building up to this event.

Most of the mini series have been mediocre at best, hell SuperSkrull was even killed at the end of his, so I'm not sure how that miniseries will affect this book. It feels more like a continuation of the Silver Surfer book and Nova, hell it’s even told through the eyes of Nova. So to wrap some things up here is what happened in this issue: Nova and Gamora get it on, Galactus gets to kick some ass and then gets his own handed to him, Surfer throws down with Aegis and Tenebrous, Thanos, and Firelord is all power cosmic uped!

Giffen seems to really want to change the character of Nova, because just from the start of his mini-series to this particular issue, he has matured so much. Now, I'm not sure if these changes will stay or go the way of Diamondhead. Giffen also seems to have fun with the new cynical Drax. Reshaping Annihilus into a credible villain will take time though; years of bad writing will do that to any character.

Now what is there to say about the artwork? The action was almost non stop yet the characters shined through, especially Nova who is now depicted as a veteran of war. It doesn't get better than Giant bugs and explosions in space. Now where is Beta Ray Bill? Rom? Warlock? The first issue was a fun ride with just a couple of minor flaws, but it’s very balanced between action and characterization. A-

Martian Manhunter # 1 Review

Author: A.J. Lieberman
Penciler Al Barrionuevo
Inker: Bit
Colors: Marta Martinez

Martian Manhunter is one of those characters that never got the justice he deserved. He is not an A list character, but he is popular enough to be teamed up with A-listers on an A-list book, but not strong enough to carry his own title in years. I've always liked J'onn though, being the last of his kind and not looking like a human being always gave him that loner factor to him. But is he the last of his kind?

From the beginning of the book J'onn J'onzz finds evidence that he is not the last son of the Red planet. Everything he's believed was wrong and now he finds himself against humans. The main reason this has been happening is because he is no longer recognized by humans. He changed his look because he is no longer alone. He looks more like a Skrull with his ridged chin and I don't entirely buy why he changed his look to begin with. There are some villains that are capturing Martians and torturing them to make weapons for the military.

Lieberman writes this issue in a way that those unfamiliar with J'onn can follow. However, this book will prove far more interesting to those who have long loved the Martian Manhunter and wished he were given a greater role in the comics these days. Yes there is some clichéd storytelling, but hey it worked in Enemy Mine, for some reason I kept thinking of that movie when I was reading this book.

Barrionuevo does an amazing job with the storytelling. Other than the Skrull looking Manhunter design his panels are easy to follow and can be intense at times. It’s a good start for new readers to J'onn's world and a nice enough fresh story to keep old readers interested. B

Picture of the Week

I should really change this to joshiebear's picture of the week! Again nice find man.

Wolverine Origins # 5 Review

Author: Daniel Way
Penciler: Steve Dillon
Color: Dan Kemp
Covers: Steve Dillon and Joe Quesada

It seems like it's been a slow week for comics and a busy week for me, but that doesn't mean I don't get to review the conclusion of Wolverine Born in Blood. How exactly do I feel about this arc and this particular issue? Well only one word comes to mind: ASS!

After five issues of running around and avenging we still don't know who the hell "they" are. As a matter of fact, I don't think Daniel Way knows yet. But if he draws a couple of names out of a hat, I'm sure he'll know then. What's the big revelation that will forever rock Wolverine's breeches and ass fuck the X-men's world? Well it turns out that Superman has a son in the movie! No wait, it turns out that Batman has a son! Shit, that's not right, Catwoman? Corsair? Okay end of sarcasm, yes, Wolverine has a son and that son hates him! This formula is getting old real quick. First of all, of course Wolverine has a fucking kid!!!! He's been around banging honeys for over 100 years! How in the hell is this idea helping the story progress? Once again, this book is called Wolverine Origins! Not Nuke Origins or for that matter Wolverine dead beat dad!

Wolverine has always had a small girl under his wings or claws, whatever. Shadowcat, Rogue, Jubilee, Elsie Dee, and of course his adopted daughter Amiko. Hey, here is a brilliant idea why don't you use already established characters to move the fucking story along? The only reason Scott, Emma, and Hellion were in this issue, particularly Emma; was to be used as plot devices. I realize comics have always been a soap opera for guys, but sometimes I expect a little more.

Dillon is still in my eyes not the artist for Wolverine; his art is too clean and crisp. What did I like about the issue? The colors are nice and vibrant and that cover by Quesada is gorgeous. I haven't seen his art style shine like that in a long time. But sadly, that is all that I enjoyed out of this issue, but there is always the Wolverine title for me. Just for the record, I'm still confused why drinking beer and smoking a stogey is worse than shooting innocent people and having a bastard child? Way again delivers a steaming pile D-!

Picture of the Week!

Thanks again joshiebear!

Mini-reviews of some 8/9 books

It's about time I post something around here other than the podcast, so here goes - reviews of books that came out this week:

52 Week 14
Wow, this issue was boring. Montoya and the Question go to Kahndaq, where they spend pages and pages wandering around doing nothing. Steel has built a new armor for his daughter. Doc Magnus gets the Metal Men up and running again, while the gub'ment wants them for weapons. This is easily the most disappointing issue of 52 thus far, and if you listen to the podcast, you know I love this series in general (this is the one series where I don't mind the extreme decompression, because it's part of the bill). What's funny about this, to me, is that in 14 weeks very little of actual import has occured in 52, but the entire run of Bendis' New Avengers was supposed to take place over the course of like two weeks.

Fables 52
Did anyone think that such an extreme strike on the heart of the empire would go unavenged? Of course not. This issue brings together some of the most powerful 'evil' fables in the Empire, along with the newly-introduced Inquisitor General Hansel, into a war council, where they begin their plans to wipe out Fabletown completely. A subplot with Red Riding Hood is fun to read, as is the back-up story (which promises to be a regular feature, highlighting 'other' fables than those in the main cast) about Rapunzel. Fables is a book that I look forward to every month, and I have yet to be disappointed.

Superman 655
Has Arion even appeared in a comic since Crisis on Infinite Earths? Because he's a lot of fun here. In the past, he has a vision about events occuring with Superman in our time, becomes greatly annoyed that his future self hasn't dealt with them, becomes even more annoyed when he realizes that he has died sometime in the interim, and decides to get his own hands dirty by jumping forward through time to take care of things. Did I mention Superman is in this comic too? There are some great character moments with Lana Lang, as well as some background on Callie, who Clark evidently met sometime in the early Birthright years, as well as some interesting new applications of Clarks hightened abilities. A great Superman issue.

More as soon as I get around to reading them.

About Heroes Episode 26

Omar, Melanie, Chris and Nick tell us about their experiences at Wizard World Chicago (or at least the ones they can remember)!

Listen to About Heroes, Episode 26

13th Annual Wizard World Fan Award Winners:

It's been a heck of a week for us at ABOUTHEROES! Recuperating from the Chicago con and readjusting our lives to the every day responsibities (okay its not that dramatic.) We will have some highlights and pictures up soon from our wild trip. In the meantime here is a look at the Fan Award Winners:

FAVORITE PUBLISHER: Marvel Comics
FAVORITE ON-GOING SERIES: Astonishing X-Men
FAVORITE ONE-SHOT:Countdown to Infinite Crisis
FAVORITE MINI-SERIES: Villains United
COMICS’ GREATEST MOMENT: “No more mutants” (House of M)
FAVORITE WRITER: Geoff Johns (Flash, Green Lantern: Rebirth)
FAVORITE PENCILLER: John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men, Planetary)
FAVORITE INKER: Scott Williams (All-Star Batman and Robin)
FAVORITE PAINTER: Alex Ross (Justice)
FAVORITE COLORIST: Laura Martin (Astonishing X-Men)
FAVORITE LETTERER: Chris Eliopoulous (Ultimates 2)
FAVORITE EDITOR: Axel Alonso (Amazing Spider-Man)
FAVORITE BREAK-OUT TALENT: Allan Heinberg (Young Avengers)
FAVORITE COVER-ARTIST: James Jean (Fables)
FAVORITE HERO (MALE): Captain America (Marvel Comics)
FAVORITE HERO (FEMALE): Kitty Pryde (Marvel Comics)
FAVORITE VILLAIN: Winter Soldier (Marvel Comics)
FAVORITE SUPPORTING CHARACTER: Jessica Jones (Marvel Comics)
FAVORITE COMIC MERCHANDISE: Batman Black/White Mike Mignola Statue
FAVORITE ACTION FIGURE LINE: Marvel Legends (Toy Biz)
FAVORITE COMIC MOVIE PROJECT: Batman Begins (Warner Brothers and DC Comics)
FAVORITE TELEVISION SHOW: Lost (ABC)
FAVORITE DVD RELEASE: Batman Begins (Warner Brothers Home Video and DC Comics)
FAVORITE VIDEOGAME: X-Men Legends II (Activision)

Detective Comics # 822 Review

This Review Was Submitted by Knightwingbk

Writer: Paul Dini
Artists: Don Kramer & Wayne Faucher

And Paul Dini strikes again! As much as I loved Face the Face, I am loving Paul Dini's run on Detective Comics even more. That, and Don Kramer returns to Batman in this issue from his Face the Face storyline. If that is not reason enough to give two cheers, here's a third, this issue made me enjoy the riddler. How often does that happen?

Paul Dini continues to use Bruce Wayne as a character. Batman is out saving Gotham and returns for the night, only to notice that Alfred has set off the alarm that there are people in Wayne Manor and Alfred is to busy to come to the Batcave. Normally in bat-books, this means a threat, a battle, but Dini turns this on its head as upstairs awaits a circus. A media circus, with the Riddler as its Ringmaster. It seems that Bruce Wayne was the last person to see a murdered woman alive, so the Riddler has brought the press and Jim Gordon to prove that Bruce Wayne is not the killer. They leave and now Batman has his interest peaked. Later on we see Batman and the Riddler team up on this murder case, leading to lots of great dialogue between the two.

Riddler: "So... Nice Car. First time I've been inside it conscious."
Batman: "Don't touch anything."

Paul Dini writes a great Batman story, a great murder mystery, and even a great Riddler story. I can't rave enough about Don Kramer's art and how suited he is for the Batman books. So how about those three cheers for Batman? It’s been a long time since I've been this happy about reading Batman books. A.