Comic Reviews: X-Force #14

X-Force #14 written by Simon Spurrier, pencils and cover by Rock-He Kim, colors by Jose Villarrubia

I’ve been reading this series since the beginning, and it’s satisfying to see everything coming together. We are moving ever so close to the end of the series. This issue pulls no punches. You really get the feeling that this is all or nothing; X-Force’s final confrontation with Fantomex.

Comic Reviews: Amazing X-Men #15

Amazing X-Men #15 - writing by Christopher Yost, pencils by Jorge Fornes, colors by Rachelle Rosenberg, cover by Kris Anka.

This is my first ever issue of Amazing X-Men. I just couldn’t help but pick up the return of the Juggernaut. He’s definitely in my top 5 favorite villains, probably in my top 3. Lists of favorite character always ebb and flow, but I think it’s #1 Electro, #2 Boomerang, #3 Juggernaut, #4 Dr. Doom, #5 Bullseye. I’ve always liked the Juggernaut… but this infamous youtube video from years ago pushed it over the edge. (Caution: there's some language in the video.) From that point, I loved the Juggernaut.

Comic Reviews: RAI #6

RAI #6 by (w) Matt Kindt and (a) Clayton Crain

Let me shoot straight with you guys, there are 2 big reasons I’m reviewing this book. The first is because I’m a big sucker for Crain’s artwork. His art is what sucked me in to buying monthly comics right after I graduated high school. His cover for Venom and Carnage #1 is like nothing I had ever seen. He was the first comic artist I ever commissioned for a sketch. It’s hanging in my living room to this day.

The second reason is very simple. Since I’ve been active on twitter (about a week and a half) I’ve started following more comic publishers, writers, artists, editors, etc. Valiant Comics tweeted out a picture of Crain’s cover for RAI #6. I retweeted it, simply adding “that cover!”. Then, Valiant Comics retweeted my comment, which various people favorited. A big time comic book publisher retweeted something I said, and it got some hits. Well, as dumb as it might be, if Valiant is willing to take the time to do that for me, I’m going to review this comic.

Comic Reviews: Cyclops #9

Cyclops #9 by (w) John Layman and (a) Javier Garron (c) Chris Sotomayor

I usually try to write spoiler-free reviews. For this issue, however, I don’t feel like there’s any big “BAH GAWD!” moment at the end, so I will say this now…

Comic Reviews: Ant-Man #1

I think it’s getting to the point where anything that Nick Spencer writes must immediately go to my pull list. His Superior Foes of Spider-Man was one of the best runs I’ve read in a long long time, and Ant-Man looks to be a great follow up. The sarcasm, wit, and honesty he gives his characters is refreshing.

Comics: Reviews December 2014 Reset

So, I haven’t written a comic book review in ages. Instead of jumping right in, let’s run down the books currently on my pull list, how much I love them, and what to look forward to in the months ahead. Ready, set, go. (If you’re looking for D.C. reviews, jog off. Not currently getting any D.C. titles.)

Coming Soon!

Well.... I've started writing again. I haven't updated my blog in over a year. I felt like it was dead. But now, since I've started writing for The Reserve Pool, I've noticed a few phantom hits on this site every couple weeks. So it's time to get back to it. I will give a big update soon, and get back at it on a regular basis.

Wrestling Training: Part 4

My four-week trial at the Cleveland Dungeon for pro wrestling training is over. This Thursday I start my real training. This has been a blast so far, and I am excited for what’s ahead.

Comics: Reviews for 4-17-13

Wow. What a Wednesday. Godzilla #11, Cable and X-Force #7, Nova #3, and Daredevil #25 all came out today. Four books in one week are the most I have purchased in a long time. The most shocking part is that ALL of them were good!

Wrestling Training: Part 3

My body is sore. I haven’t gotten a lot of sleep the past few nights because I have two kids sick with the flu. That’s probably not it though. I think it has more to do with the fact that I started my professional wrestling training yesterday and threw myself on to the mat close to a hundred times. Yea, that’s it.

Wrestling Training: Part 2

My professional wrestling training begins in less than four days.

Comics: Reviews for 3-27-13

Originally written 3-27-13

This is such a tough week to pick which comic to review. I only got two this week though, so I will review them both: Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy #1 and Image’s East of West #1.

Wrestling Training: Part 1

I'm in the middle of my first week of Insanity training... it's tough. I threw up during my fit test on the first day of the 60-day training schedule. There's some sort of comfort in knowing that my mind is pushing my body beyond what it feels capable of. My desire to do Insanity training correctly, without cutting corners is greater than my body's desire for comfort. No, that's not right. Completing Insanity training is not my end goal. My end goal is to be a professional wrestler.

Comics: Guardians Of The Galaxy #0.1

I usually work 2-10pm. So on Wednesdays I get to the comic shop right when they open, before I go to work. Today was different. I was at a seminar for work from 8-4:30, so I just hit up the comic shop on the way home. To pass the time during the seminar, i hopped on www.comicbookroundup.com to see if any reviews were already posted for this week's books. At that point Guardians Of The Galaxy #0.1 had an overall rating of 8.0. I read the review.

Comics: Nova #1

As far as origin issues go, this one is good. It doesn’t do much to blow you away, but it doesn’t turn you away from the series either. I really enjoy Ed McGuinness’ artwork, but even that doesn’t amaze. It gets the job done. I feel like all this first issue does, is introduce you to the characters, and prepare you for the real story. Which is all that is expected from a first issue.

... I liked all the characters so far. Sam Alexander, the soon to be title character: Nova, is kinda a cliché comic book teen who is about to get super powers. He’s a little rebellious but ultimately has a good heart. 

 The thing that drew me to the previous Nova series was that Richard Rider (that series’ Nova who met his demise in the final issue) was a journeyman B-list hero. So to see him ascend to the level of cosmic hero that he became was a great adventure. Rider had years and years of storytelling behind him to get readers to connect with him. Sam Alexander has had one issue so far.

 I like where the story is going, but like I said, it’s nothing phenominal at this point. I’m more than confident that this series will amaze once they get the formal introductions out of the way

Sidenote: I’m usually not big on getting variant covers, but the variant by Skottie Young is awesome. Glad I got it.

Comics: Daredevil #23

This is the first issue I have bought of Daredevil. Ever. The book got amazing reviews while Ed Brubaker was writing, and the trend has continued with Mark Waid helming the series. I’ve thought about picking it up many times, but always thought, “I don’t have any room in my comic budget right now… maybe another time.” That time is now. With Orchid, Punk Rock Jesus, Godzilla: The Half-Centruy War, and Amazing Spider-Man all ending, I have a little bit of wiggle room. I heard this was a great jumping on point, so I pulled the trigger. I got home, set my 2 year old daughter on my lap, and we began to read Daredevil #23.
...
“Smy-Man!”
“No, that’s not Spider-Man, that’s Daredevil. Say Daredevil.”
“Drrrdevil.”
(Open the front cover, only to see an ad for the Deadpool video game.)
“Smy-Man!!!”
“Umm… sure, that’s Spider-Man. But we’re gonna read about Daredevil.”
“Drrrdevil.”
“Yes.”

Comics: Looking at Nova and Hypernaturals

One of my favorite series over the past few years was Nova (Vol. 4) written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning. I always had a soft spot for the character in the '90s. When I first began collecting comics, I got Nova (Vol. 2) issue #3. While at the grocery store I saw this issue and thought that Nova looked like a really cool hero, and it guest-starred the Amazing Spider-Man. As I got older, I picked up random issues of various Nova series here and there. Fast forward to 2006. When Annihilation came out, I didn't have the budget at the time to start picking up a new series, but I kept a close watch on the spoilers and reviews, especially since it seemed like Nova was going to be a pivotal character. Was this B-list hero I've watched for years finally getting an upgrade in status? After Annihilation ended, Nova got his own ongoing series once again. After all the acclaim of Annihilation, I had to start getting this new series. Regretfully, I had to stop buying at about halfway through the run, along with every other comic I was buying at the time, after getting laid off work. Once I got back on my feet, Nova was the first comic I started hunting down back issues for. I even got the 3 book hardcover set of the Annihilation series, so I could sit down and enjoy it from beginning to end myself. (Holy crap! So many "wow" moments through the entire series.) For whatever reason, I've always been drawn to the character of Richard Rider as Nova, especially through the storytelling of Abnett and Lanning.

So, what was the point in telling you that? Two reasons...

The first, is because this past year on Free Comic Book Day a new series launched by Abnett and Lanning in an all new creator owned universe called Hypernaturals by BOOM! Studios. I made it a point to check it out. I actually had to go to 3 different local comic shops before I could get my hands on the free issue. I figured if Abnett and Lanning could take a B-list hero with a history in obscurity, and transform him in to one of the most relatable, heroic characters in the Marvel Universe, then I couldn't miss seeing what they could do with a completely blank slate to work with. At the begining there is a ton of information, and backstory, and characters thrown at you. It really can be overwhelming at times figuring out what is happening now, what happened 50 years ago, and what happened 5 years ago, but on the other side of the galaxy. As someone on a limited budget, I nearly dropped the book around issue #4 or 5. I felt like I was just buying it to buy it. It was entertaining, but there were so many unanswered questions after every single issue. I stuck it out. Partially because I try to be loyal to a series, and at least give it a full story arc before casting it aside, and partially because I didn't want to be wrong about taking a chance on this series. I just put down issue #8. Wow. This series has picked up so much steam. I am especially stoked for the character Shoal. He is a young recruit working with the seasoned veterans, and his own powers keep surprising him. Every time he makes a suggestion out in the field, the hyperintelligent member of the team just tells him how to use his own abilities to do the very thing he suggested. I'm excited to see how this character grows. And then there's Clone 34; a primary example of a cliche character at its finest. He's an old washed up hero, forced out of retirement for just one more mission. Issue #9 is shaping up to be a great defining moment for Clone 34, or it could be his swan song. That's the thing with an independent creator made universe: there is absolutely nothing off limits, uncertainty fills every issue. I will definitely be getting Hypernaturals for the long haul.

The second reason for my lengthy intro: a new Nova series is launching soon. Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness are the creators behind this latest entry, Vol. 5. Richard Rider is no longer Nova, as the new "human rocket" is a young man named Sam Alexander. This new Nova has had one of the strangest debuts I've ever seen. First, he has been appearing in the animated series Ultimate Spider-Man, which is entering its second season. Also, last year he appeared in the bookend issues of the crossover event AvX (Avengers vs X-Men). But this new series takes place BEFORE his appearance in AvX or the Ultimate Spider-Man animated series. Regardless, the mythos surrounding Nova have mehooked, as well as the eventual return of Richard Rider. The writers that captured me on the previous series are not back this time around, so there is some hesitation. But, I have faith that Loeb and McGuinness will carry the torch well, as Marvek continues to invest talent in to its cosmic titles. Now, if only we can get Black Bolt on a monthly basis...

Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning have continued to impress, even outside of Marvel Comics with their Hypernaturals series, and the groundwork they laid with Nova is about to be used to usher in a new hero in a new series. Let's see if this new Nova can live up to its predecessor.

Comics: Orchid Series Review

Here is the thing about Orchid: despite its flaws, I absolutely enjoyed this series. Since this is a review of the entire series, there are some spoilers. You have been warned.

As most of you know about this series by now, it’s written by guitar legend Tom Morello. The writing is good. Not great, but good. The characters have their distinct voices, which is something I put a very high value on. Scott Hepburn provides the artwork, while Massimo Carnevale takes care of the covers. I was not familiar with Hepburn or Carnevale prior to Orchid, but they are now names I will remember. Especially Carnevale. Some of this covers (3, 6, 12) look stunning, and I would love to just have a framed print on my wall.

My first problem with this series is the shipping dates. 12 issues in 16 months. There were some gaps in between issues shipping. However, when rereading the series, this is a moot point. If I had to pick between monthly releases or high quality product, I will choose the high quality product every time. It was a little annoying waiting for the next issue while I received 2 or 3 issues of the other titles I purchase, but in the grand scheme of things, I would rather have this than a sacrifice in quality. While I can say this is a complaint now, when I reread this series down the road, I doubt I will even remember.

For better or worse, this series feels like a fairy tale. The story is epic, on a grand stage that alters the course of history. But like many fairy tales, we are an outside observer to the whole thing. You never really get “sucked in” to the story. It’s merely a series of events unfolding in front of you. There isn’t a character that demands the reader to feel a connection with. Simon and Orchid are our constant characters from beginning to end. While Simon doesn’t change at all, Orchid does a complete 180. I would say that most readers would fall somewhere in between. Our life events do have an impact on how we think and act, but as adults, we have the same core personality over time. I understand that big life events can change a person, but Orchid goes from wanting to commit suicide to wanting to lead the rebellion army instantly. I’m not new to comic books… I understand that the power of General China’s mask had effect on her, but I just didn’t see any of those leadership qualities before she tried to kill herself. It felt like a reach.

The ending seemed too easy. Orchid succeeded where Opal had failed in the past, and freed the people. Morello did acknowledge that there was a bit of a power vacuum in his epilogue with new groups rising up, but this story still got the “happily ever after” treatment. Tomo Wolfe is dead, and suddenly the people are living in an idealistic utopian society? That’s fine… I just expected more realism somehow. Like I said, this IS a fairy tale. On a personal note… Anzio and Simon are gay!?!? Did I miss some important point along the way? It doesn’t really matter to the story, but it would have been worth mentioning at some point during the story instead of on the last page. And Orchid, former prostitute turned rebel leader is now a paragon of peace and tranquility.

I feel like I’m just spewing out all these negative opinions on this series and I hated it. That’s not true at all. This series was fun. From our first meeting with Opal, to learning the backstory of Barrabas (which, by the way, I think was the coolest character in the whole series), to the battle in Stadia Penuel, to the return of Yehzu… it rocked. Reading through the series again, I can’t help but feel like we were reading the story of “How Orchid saved us from the tyranny of Tomo Wolfe” and the stage is now set for the REAL story. I know the ending was left open, with the reappearance of General China’s mask, but I would be surprised if this story had any sort of sequel.

Tom, Scott, Massimo, and everyone else that worked on this book, thanks. It wasn’t perfect, but it was fun. If you decide to do it again, I’ll be here waiting. Final grade: 7.5/10

Comics: Prelude to Spider-Men

(Originally written June 14 2012)

Here's a small history lesson. Everyone knows Peter Parker: your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. Peter has been a staple in comic books for 50 years now. I learned so many of life's lessons from Spider-Man, whether it was through the '90s cartoon series, or the comic books themselves. The importance of responsibility, giving people a second chance, and sometimes denying your own wants and needs for the sake of other. Maybe I did not learn these lessons from Spider-Man himself, however the character always reinforced these beliefs. I don't have life all figured out, and I struggle with daily choices and temptations... and that's the part of myself I see when I read Spider-Man. To a generation raised on the idea that you can get whatever you want whenever you want, and you can do whatever makes you happy without any repercussions, it's a wonder that Spider-Man is as popular as he is.

In 2000, in an effort to boost sales (like there's ever any other reason), Marvel Comics launched their Ultimate universe, with "Ultimate Spider-Man" leading the way. The Ultimate line was an outlet to reintroduce classic Marvel characters in a modern light, while giving some of their creative minds an avenue to write stories that simply could not exist in the original Marvel Universe. This Ultimate universe was a huge hit, with titles like Ultimate Spider-Man, Ultimate X-Men, Ultimate Fantastic Four, and The Ultimates (their version of the Avengers). I never cared for the Ultimate line... while some interesting stories were being told, I did not need reimagined characters to be entertained. I do own a few issues of Ultimate comics, but nothing ever made a lasting impact. I just prefer my classic Marvel universe. 616 for life, home slice!

In 2011, the Ultimate universe's Spider-Man, the character that garnered enough attention and interest to spur on the creation of Ultimate comics, the character that so many people are able to relate to, died. After a long fought battle with the Green Goblin, young Peter Parker collapsed, dying in Mary Jane's arms. His identity was made public, as he inspired many through his death. One of those he inspired was a young man named Miles Morales. Miles gained his own spider-like abilities through a spider bite, and chose to become a new Spider-Man, dedicating his life to the legacy of the great fallen hero.

Now, for the first time ever, Marvel's classic 616 universe will crossover with the Ultimate universe, bringing the Spider-Man we've seen and grown with for 50 years face to face with the Spider-Man who has just recently put on the tights, and is still learning the ropes (webs?). This first issue was great. Artwork, writing, story progression... it's a very well done. As i mentioned before, everything in comics is done to increase sales... bottom line. It appears that Marvel is simply trying to get even more of the spotlight on their new Ultimate Spider-Man by crossing him over with one of the most loved characters of all time. I think it will work.

Comics: Godzilla #2

(Originally written on June 21, 2012)

Wow. Talk about being blindsided. The first 4 pages put tears in my eyes. We see images of Godzilla, Kumonga, and Angurius destroying some cities. There are no sound effects or voices, merely caption boxes displaying text messages and tweets from people trying to talk to their loved ones during the chaos.

"HELP"
"pls send help I don't know the intersection don't know where i am"
"buried help"
"love you grace"
"@LexiUSA Where are u?"
"@LexiUSA cmon honey, where are you? Talk to me."
"So this is the way it ends... with a tweet. Love and luck to you all."

When I pick up a Godzilla comic, like any Godzilla movie, I expect a good time. Giant monsters fighting each other. Yea, the cities get destroyed, but the buildings are always empty, right? Apparently not this time...