Comic Book Review: Brightest Day #1

Book Information

Written by Geoff Johns & Peter Tomasi

Penciled by Ivan Reis, Ardian Syaf, Scott Clark, Joe Prado

Colored by Peter Steigerwald

Inked by Vicente Cifuentes, Mark Irwin, Oclair Albert, David Beaty

Cover by Ivan Reis

My All-Inspiring Opinion

If you were to try and decipher the differences between Blackest Night and Brightest Day, you might find the task a little more daunting than expected.  This first issue (well, 2^nd if you count issue #0) begins the latest chapter in the Green Lantern mythos.  Johns delves into the mystery involving the risen heroes and the mysterious white light that seems to be weighted down in its Lantern shape by some unknown force.  We also see the beginnings of conflicts that our featured heroes, Aquaman, Firestorm, the Hawks, and Martian Manhunter will face in the coming issues.  Each hero finds themselves faced with memories or events of a violent nature, riddled with violent stranglings…

Dead sea animals rising from the depths…

And cleavers slicing through men’s throats…

I would say that the title “Brightest Day” is quite deceiving in its uplifting and appealing connotation. 

In seeing the the 3^rd panel on the 5^th page of Hal Jordan attempting to lift the White Lantern from the ground, I was very close to tossing this book across the room.  But my frustrations were relinquished when Geoff Johns clearly wanted his audience to be aware of this aspect in the story’s plot development.  I was relieved that Johns wasn’t trying to hide the fact that this IS going to be the story of “The Sword in the Stone.”  This gives DC’s most popular writer the ability to shock and alarm his readers since he will most assuredly give Brightest Day an unexpected conclusion.  Will the “destined one” be a King Arthur type of figure, or a lowly man who has a deeper connection with life and death?

While Blackest Night had some of the most disturbing visuals I’ve ever seen in comics, Brightest Day gives us some fairly disturbing sequences of which play around with the mind much more.  Aquaman, despite having risen from the dead and being completely healthy with no Captain Hook arm, (Thank God!) he finds himself unable to call on the aid of living sea animals.  In addition, Firestorm, the Hawks, and Martian Manhunter are flooded with disturbing images and scenes that cause me to wonder just what emotional baggage do they unwillingly carry from the events of Blackest Night?  Just when you thought all your questions would be answered, Johns throws a monkey wrench into the story.

Aquaman and Mera seem to share a problem.  As stated, since being severed from the Black Ring’s power, Aquaman still finds himself connected with the dead, only able to contact a deceased, mauled Shark and giant squid.  Likewise, Mera still seems to have some connection with her brief, but intense relationship with the red ring of rage.  This theme of lingering connectivity with the emotional spectrum stuck out at me the most and I feel Johns could be going somewhere with this. 

As most of you who follow my blog, I’m sure you’ve already guessed my opinions on the artistic approach.  The entire team of artists on this book are great, but the toggling from artist to artist drives me nuts.  Ivan Reis does fantastic work, so why couldn’t DC just hire him to draw the whole friggin issue?!?!  He’s not doing anything right now!  I don’t get it!  I can’t justify ranking the art high when I become so distracted by the different art styles.  Although, Reis certainly gave us some amazing visuals…

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

Nothing more can be said except that this issue is great.  I don’t think it deserves any awards for greatest comic book ever, but it does start the mystery off well.

Ratings

Writing: 9

Themes: 9

Art: 6

Overall: 8 out of 10

Comic Book Review: Action Comics #889

Book Information

Written by Greg Rucka & Eric Trautmann

Penciled by Pere Perez

Colored by Javier Mena

Inked by Bit

Lettered by Rob Leigh

Cover by Alex Garner

My All-Inspiring Opinion

Action Comics is predominantly a Superman book but has never been limited by that fact.  Many other DC characters have taking a starring role in the title if Superman was busy doing something else, but we always knew he would return next month.  I do believe this has been the longest stretch of time where Action Comics has gone without the Man of Steel.  And while the majority of Superman fans find the last year of Action Comics to be boring and stupid, I’ve rather enjoyed the reintroduction of Flamebird and Nightwing.

When it comes to dual writer team-ups, I’m never sure who the creative genius is and who is the right-hand man.  I want to say Greg Rucka is at the forefront of this project but Trautmann has done some spectacular solo work in the past.  The only conclusion I can come to is that both men are equally involved in the writing of this story.  The awesome finality of Nightwing joining in the battle was interesting as Chris seemed to become a whole new person while keeping some of those character traits we’ve become accustom too.  And having the JSA apart of this concluding chapter was a nice touch as well.

Since most of the mystery behind Flamebird and Nightwing was wrapped up in #888, there wasn’t much left to do except finish off the Rao clone and put an end to Jax-Ur’s reign of terror.  But I felt this arc ended rather timidly.  Yes, Rao fell to the ground, yes there was a fiery arena of chaos all around, and yes the entire issue was filled with non-stop action that would have completely obliterated the whole world in real life, but at the snap of a finger, Rao was finish along with Jax-Ur.  Maybe I was just expecting so much of a big booming ending that my mind just decided this wasn’t epic enough to satisfy me.  It just felt way to sudden and abrupt, especially with how much Rucka and Trautmann had built up the story from beginning to end. 

Did Pere Perez give up?  The art in this issue does NOT match up with the previous issues.  Last issue was filled with incredibly detailed and paint-like images that put Perez in the running for the top ten best artists of 2010.  Now he gives us visuals that are less artistic and dull.  It’s as if #888 was too much of a workout for him.  I would compare the art in this issue to that of a driver setting his car on cruise control, shutting his eyes, hitting the gas and hope that everything works out.  I really am disappointed with the quality of work by Perez in this comic.  On a lighter, more positive note however, Alex Garner produced the BEST cover of 2010 thus far.  I find myself picking this issue up over and over again just to gaze on the gorgeous artwork.

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

For the most part, this is an entertaining read despite the less than satisfactory conclusion.  I’m debating on whether or not this entire run of Action Comics should be considered for best story arc of 2010.  Only time will tell.

Ratings

Writing: 7.5

Themes: 6

Art: 3

Overall: 5.50 

Comic Book Review: Green Hornet #3

Book Information

Written by Kevin Smith

Art by Jonathon Lau

Lettered by Simon Bowland

Cover by Alex Ross

My All-Inspiring Opinion

Certain patterns are beginning to emerge within Smith’s Green Hornet storyline that are quite familiar and unoriginal.  How many superheroes have adopted the superhero persona due to violently loosing their father?  The superhero is nothing more than a victim of some terrible circumstance that spurns this need to right the wrongs and defend the defenseless, but they all seem to have the same origin story.  Having the original Kato in the mix doesn’t help the obvious and predictable nature of this book knowing, once you see him sitting at the bar, that he will be taking it upon himself to train the Green Hornet’s son and introducing him to his father’s secret legacy.  I understand Smith’s Silver Age intention behind the story, but even a predictable story needs to have something that shocks and alarms.

Most notably, Dynamite has been building up the “surprising death” that would happen in issue #3.  The possibilities were laid out there for us to pick and choose from.  Either Kato, his daughter, Green Hornet senior or junior would find themselves beaten, broken, and in a coffin under the ground.  We knew it wouldn’t be Britt’s son or Miss Kato since the whole story is based around them and their beginnings, which only leaves the judo master and the Original Green Hornet.  Based on the typical comic trends, a father would have to die to help push the son forward into avenging his death, only to be trained or guided by a wise, experienced individual who has a connection with both men.  The event might have been much more dramatic and surprising if Dynamite hadn’t of given everything away a few weeks prior to this issue actual publication date, but Dynamite ruined the surprise with their enormous build-up and marketing of this drastic event.

Apart from the predictable nature of the book, the story in and of itself is entertaining and fun to read.  Kato’s real-time training session was humorously tense and foreshadowed what Britt Reid junior’s future will be like.  In addition, Smith does create an interesting mystery behind the young Japanese woman we all know to be the daughter of Kato.  But what we don’t know is why she was at the Reid fundraiser to begin with and how she knew of the oncoming threat. 

Artistically this issue couldn’t have made me happier.  Despite the overabundance of speed lines, the 3-demensinal approach that Jonathon Lau is taking on this title is beautiful and poetic.  He creates such strong and dominate body structures that don’t go too far, nor are they lacking in anything anatomically.  And who can argue with that cover?  When Alex Ross dies, it is certainly going to hit the comic book industry harder than anything in history.

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

Issue #3 is fun and I think anyone following the series will enjoy it.  However, don’t expect anything mind blowing or “new.”  This was purely the “action sequence” chapter of Kevin Smith’s Green Hornet Movie script.

Ratings

Writing: 8

Themes: 4

Art: 10

Overall: 7.33

Comic Book Review: Toy Story [Free Comic Book Day]

Free Comic Book Day Review!

Book Information

Written by Jesse Blaze Snider

Art by Nathan Watson

My All-Inspiring Opinion

As a way of preparing Toy Story fans for the June 18 release of film number three, Disney has taken advantage of Free Comic Book Day’s fan luring opportunities by releasing a free comic book for the kiddies.  As far as free comics from Free Comic Book Day go, Toy Story certainly entertains and delights. 

The story is very much reminiscent of the first film.  Andy has received a new, unknown toy from his absent minded grandmother who didn’t realize his birthday had long since past.  Not only does she not know his actual birthday, she also has no knowledge of his current inventory list of toys, getting him a second Buzz Lightyear.  Now Woody, Buzz and the rest of the gang must help to keep the two Lightyears separated so Andy doesn’t return the wrong Buzz to the store.  But this could be a more difficult task than you would think as the newer, shiner Buzz wants to stay with Andy.

One can tell Disney did not put a lot of thought and effort into making and original story for this latest Toy Story comic.  The new toy comes in, a conflict arises between Woody and Buzz, and now a toy’s life is threatened as it’s on the verge of being returned to the very place no toy wants to be.  Nothing too thought provoking or innovative, but this is, of course, a kid’s comic.

The art is surprisingly well done; Nathan Watson paid close attention to the characters look from the first and second film.  I appreciated how Disney decided to differentiate between the new and old Buzz, making one look much more faded and defective in comparison to the newer intruder.  Andy is a spot on match and Woody resembles his movie doppelganger almost perfectly.  Apart from the books purposefully campy and cartooney look, this comic’s visual appeal is very nice and pleasant, befitting of a kid’s comic on Free Comic Book Day.

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

This book will definitely appeal to the younger crowd while might only come off as cute and silly for the adults.  Are you ready for Toy Story 3?  I know I am. 

Ratings

Writing: 7

Themes: 8

Art: 7

Overall Rating: 7.33 out of 10

Comic Book Review: Justice League of America #44

Book Information

Written by James Robinson

Art by Mark Bagely

Colored by Ulises Arreola

Inked by Rob Hunter, Norm Rapmund

Lettered by Rob Leigh

Cover by Mark Bagely

My All-Inspiring Opinion

No doubt this is the worst transitioning point the League has ever seen, especially with its 12+ month time span.  Issue #42 began to portray a new league, one that could work together as a cohesive unit and communicate well.  The following month in #43, the established League had already lost a chunk of its members, once again leaving the League in a state of uncertainty and confusion.  In a desperate attempt to reestablish his current line-up, Robinson selects four individuals to focus on, Batman, Donna Troy, Congorilla Bill, and Starman. 

The battle with Etrigan was fierce, full of drama and humor.  I wonder if Bill will in fact be stuck with a running gag of “Send Bill in first to soften them up.”   But most importantly, Robinson was able to bring the League (or at least part of it) together to successfully bring down one of the universes most powerful beings.  I quite appreciated having both Starman and Bill in on this battle as many people wonder if Congorilla Bill was a good choice for the league as well as Starman.  But no doubt, these four are clearly the more focused and driven out of everyone on the League and their establishment as such will only help the future of this title. 

I can’t be certain, but it seems like every title James Robinson is on, the more predominant the two page spread becomes throughout each book.  Superman, World of New Krypton, and now Justice League are all contaminated with the two page spread layout where the first page spills over into the next.  There is nothing completely wrong with this approach, but when overdone, the repetitive nature with almost every page turn every month can become meaningless, which I think it has.

Mark Bagely is nothing if not a brilliant artist whose talents have been put on the same level with the big boys.  There isn’t a page in this book that isn’t gorgeously done.  His ability to create wonderfully penciled artwork is only enhanced by the newly added colorist, Ulises Arreola.  Together they present one of the most colorful and explosive pieces of art I’ve seen in a while.

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

While this issue isn’t the greatest JLA installment to date, the work put into it can not be denied.  Robinson is trying so hard to make his League work for readers despite the random and odd heroes within.

Ratings

Writing: 8

Themes: 8

Art: 10

Overall: 8.67

Comic Book Review: Green Lantern Corps #47

Book Information

Written by Peter J. Tomasi

Art by Patrick Gleeson

Inked by Rebecca Buchman

Colored by Randy Mayor

Lettered by Steve Wands

My All-Inspiring Opinion

Blackest Night is over.  Everything is destroyed.  The Corps must now rebuild itself from the bottom up.  Gardner, Rayner and a handful of other Lanterns take a stand against the Guardians and their newly established Book of Oa laws.  Vath wakes up with a pair of foreign legs, and Kilowog makes a life altering decision that could have a huge effect on the future of the Corps.   Tomasi brings in all the stops as he bids farewell to a comic book series that has been defined by his unremarkable ability to tell engrossing and angst driven tales.

In the past few months, this title has been quite focused on the one plot and not contaminated with a plethora of multi-purpose stories.  That has been my only major criticism about Tomasi’s work on the GL Corps as my brain always bounced around in the 22 paged comic from one plot to the next on a monthly basis.  This always took me for a loop and I was constantly going back rereading certain parts of each monthly installment due to my lost and confused state of mind.  With #47, Tomasi reverts back to that multi-plot style, but aligns each story as one cohesive unit.

This is an issue all about rebuilding relationships, renewing one’s faith, and making choices to help better your life as a whole.  Every character finds themselves in situations where they must come to terms with their inner demons, forcing them to make choices which they may or may not like.  Vath is hit hardest with this concept as he wakes up to a set of new legs which once belonged to his friend, Isamot.  After a brutal debate session between the two, they come to terms with each other and recognize that they can only work through everything that has happen to them as a team.  The sacrifice Isamot makes for Vath is a symbol of the reconstruction all the Lanterns must endure in order to survive the coming years.

Likewise, many of the title’s character are taking stances against the guardians that have not been taken before.  However, this wasn’t just some honorable attempt by Rayner and Gardner to give them license to date fellow coworkers; it was a lecture, teaching the Guardians that the Corps they have been in charge of for so long will be changing with or without Guardian approval.  Rayner’s bit of public oratory was a testament to the heart and soul of the galactic police force and that denying a Lantern the ability to love will ultimately ruin the Corps forever.  His inspiring speech branched out into the stubborn heart of Salaak, who gave the Guardians the ultimate third degree.  Nothing could have declared what the future of the Corps will be like more than that moment.  The Guardians are going to have to make a lot of changes, or they can kiss their jobs goodbye.

Pat Gleeson has a knack for instilling emotionally driven visuals, always keeping each character in line with their personalities and character traits.  Gardner always has that “tougher than shit” look while Rayner has that assertive yet humble demeanor, always hoping people will listen to reason.  The detail in this issue is amazingly well done and truly hit right on the mark.

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

This could not have been a better way of biding Tomasi farewell from the Green Lantern Corps title.  Much like when Geoff Johns left the Justice Society of America, and certainly what it will feel like when Gail Simone is finally done with Wonder Woman, we can only hope that the new writer can make the title just as exciting.

Ratings

Writing: 10

Themes: 10

Art: 10

Incentive Point: 3

Overall: 10 out of 10

Comic Book Review: Last Stand of New Krypton #3 (of 3)

Book Information

Writer: James Robinson & Sterling Gates

Artist: Pete Woods

My All-Inspiring Opinion

It becomes very difficult to decipher when a comic book company is seriously trying to make decent storylines verses when they are just toying with us.  Last Stand of New Krypton is nothing more than an extension of the upcoming series “War of the Supermen.”  This final issue in the three part series doesn’t do much to clear up the questions that have been lingering in the background.  All in all, #3 of 3 takes a turn for the worst and accomplishes nothing except taking a few extra bucks from DC and Superman fans.

The story begins with a fiery metallic skull plummeting to the city of Kandor head on.  Superman’s attempt to save the city fails, leaving him broken and pierced with no life left in him.  Zod’s attempt to destroy Brainiac as revenge is thwarted by the Legionnaire Brainiac who mysteriously zaps both he and Brainiac the first away to, one can only assume, another period in time.  Zod now presents himself to the people of New Krypton and officially declares war on the planet Earth.

In the tradition of Grant Morrison, James Robinson has delivered a complex story that served no purpose except to merely start the War of Supermen series.  The story had some exceptionally intense moments, especially when Brainiac strikes Lex Luthor, snapping his neck!  Of course, we find out later this was only a Luthor Android to help distract everyone from Luthor’s real purpose, which I’m sure will be revealed sooner rather than later.  But having truly shocking events in a story will not actually save the story, Despite the incredible explosions and fiery artwork displayed by Mr. Pete Woods.

Woods’ art, just like James Robinson’s writing, is always a toss up.  Brainiac’s ship was a sight to see as it fell towards Kandor followed by a few blazing columns of smoke.  Likewise, any panel that displayed a large object or a far away scene was as artistic and intricate as any I’ve seen.  But once you close in on someone’s face or have too many people in one setting, the artwork becomes quite wooden and way over inked.  His moments of brilliance does not outweigh the consistent flaws that occur in every issue.

My Profoundly Climactic Conclusion

To be honest, I could have waited until War of the Supermen began with issue #0 and still have been able to figure out what was going on.  This Mini did nothing to help prepare us for the WOTS storyline and I pray that Robinson will actually deliver seeing as how this will be somewhat of a new start for him.  Redemption is at hand Mr. Robinson, please don’t disappoint.

Rating: 3 out of 10 stars

Comic Book Review: War of the Superman #0 [Free Comic Book Day]

Free Comic Book Day Review!

Book Information

Written by James Robinson, Sterling Gates

Art by Eddy Barrows, Aaron Lopresti, Gary Frank

My Thoughts

Free Comic Book Day is typically a time where comic book companies try to lure in new readers and long forgotten fans.  These FCBD comics are not always the most entertaining or well written.  Last year, however, DC broke the mold with the outstanding hit single, “Blackest Night #0.”  This started a new trend within FCBD, bringing more quality books to the comic book stores.  Now as War of the Supermen #0 is not the outstanding work that Blackest Night #0 was, it still maintained the quality that DC has brought to comic book stores everywhere.

While James Robinson scares the hell out of me, his team-up with Sterling gates seems to be paying off.  One thing Robinson established early in the WONK series was that Zod had ulterior motives; it was unclear if he did actually reform or was playing the entire city.  Robinson is, and always will be an “action” story kind of writer and this issue shows off Robinson’s style in full form.

The first half of the book isn’t that deep as it focuses mainly on Superman and Zod sizing each other up and going at it tooth and nail.  The mystery revolving around Zod’s motives was pleasantly revealed here, showing that Zod will never be anything more than an evil man.  My only complaint about this issue was the condensed storyline as ten pages into it, and after the mind bogglingly amazing two page spread of Kryptonians flying towards Earth, we move into the editorial piece where Lois Lane attempts to reveal her father’s evil and prejudice nature to the world.

Nothing new is revealed, which isn’t the purpose of the book.  Every page is a recapping of what has already transpired in hopes new reader’s will see the big blue “S” and pick this issue up.  But this isn’t unnecessary script writing as it all leads to the coming events in the Superman mythos.  This issue also leaves a lot of question running around in my brain.  What will happen between Earth and New Krypton?  Despite who wins the upcoming war, a decision must be made as to how the two worlds will interact in the future.  Will General Lane die before this series’ end or will he become a new arch enemy for Superman? 

Eddy Barrows delivers some fantastic artwork in the first half of the issue, giving off that same eerie feel he brought in the Blackest night tie-ins.  Superman bursting through the wall of Zod's domicile was breath taking and shocking!  The second half of the book, while still portraying some great art, was too distracting for me as I hate having to toggle between different art styles in the same book.

Overall

A lot of fun.  If anything were to get me excited about War of the Superman, this issue certainly did the trick.

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars

Comic Book Review: Green Lantern #53

Book Information

Written by Geoff Johns

Art by Doug Mahnke

Inked by Christian Alamy

Colors by Randy Mayor

Cover by Mahnke and Mayor

Plot

We now step into a much brighter side of the Green Lantern mythos as Brightest Day begins, cementing into our minds that brighter and happier days are ahead…or is it?  With new issues revolving around the different corps, and Jordan discovering a new threat to the world, Brightest Day could be pretty dim.

My Thoughts

Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps have been so engulfed in the Blackest Night arc that very little time was spent on Hal Jordan.  The bulk of the last year has been spent establishing the different corps’ and what their role would be in the future of the DC universe.  Sadly, this means Hal Jordan had to be taken out of the spot light to allow more time in delving into the history and mythology of each corps.  While it was fun and exciting the whole way through, I am glad to see Johns giving the Green Lantern title back to Jordan.

Writing

Johns has written some of the most fluid stories I’ve ever read in comics.  This issue gives off a wonderfully tense vibe as it transitions from lover’s quarrel to dark and sinister battle scenes.  The opening pages present some wonderful foreshadowing of the events to come.  If anything were to keep me reading this title, that opening would definitely do it! 

I was a derailed a little on how Sinestro decided to get Jordan’s attention.  If the truce still stands between the corps, why would Sinestro ram right through the jet Jordan was in?  This was never explained and seemed to be out of place since the so-called truce was so new and recently agreed upon. 

Towards the end I did feel as if I was reading an issue of the Green Lantern Corps with the toggle from Green Lantern, to Orange Lantern, to Red Lantern story lines.  I’m sure Johns was taking advantage of advertising for the upcoming Emerald Warriors mini and the upcoming conflict that Jordan and Gardner will undoubtedly have, but I felt as if this should have been saved for The Green Lantern Corps title.

Rating: 8.5

Themes

Jordan is arguably DC’s best Green Lantern soldier.  Being the original, it’s hard to see him has anything less than the fan favorite.  But now, John’s is attempting a new turn in the life of Jordan by way of bringing Carol Ferris back into the mix.  The connection these two share has always been quite distant while still being intimate.  They both have strong feelings for each other, but feel conflicted about acting on those feelings.  The most interesting part of the whole book was their inability to converse while face to face. They had to be in separate jets, in the sky, talking to each other through radio devices.  Jordan has always been a little hesitant when it comes to commitment and lacks in his people skills.  It’s a testament to the American mindset; we do our best communication when we can’t see the other person, completely separated, confined, or untouchable by the other party.  I enjoyed this little interaction via military jet, but the emotional disconnect definitely stuck out, causing a slight distraction.

Both Larfleeze and Atrocitus are interesting characters.  The dislike for the two of them is quite strong, yet I feel no pity for Larfleeze at all.  Larfleeze wants every bit of power the ring has to offer; no doubt he willing takes part in the dominating power the ring grants him.  Atrocitus on the other hand seems to be trapped in a suit of red rage, unable to calm his pain and put his mind at peace.  I couldn’t help but feel and incredible amount of pity for the alien and wonder if Atrocitus will be released from his red ring and be free down the road.

Rating: 8.5

Art

If Alfred Hitchcock has taught us anything, it’s that the most terrifying scenes in a story are the ones we can’t see.  I can only assume to know who the hooded creature is, but it terrifies me to see his short body, shackled with green chains.  It was interesting to see yellow word balloons coming from the creature’s mouth while he was floating around with green shackles on his ankles, clearly displaying his relationship with the yellow power and conflict with the green. The entire display was so dark and gothic that it went beyond what Mahnke did with the zombie lanterns, creating an unknown world that seems to be centered around the emotional spectrum.

The rest of the book was quite good, artistically.  I can only imagine how difficult it must be to create scenes with no visible humans, and still make it emotionally tense and compliment the dialogue. 

Rating: 10

Overall

A great read, one of the best for April. 

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars

Next Issue Coming May 26

BRIGHTEST DAY shines its light on the "New Guardians" who have been forced to make Earth their new home! Why? You'll have to read it to believe it. While Hal is forced to deal with Larfleeze and his newfound appreciation for Earth culture, Sinestro uncovers the mystery behind Parallax's disappearance.

Comic Book Review: Justice Society of America #38

Book Information

Written by Bill Willingham

Art by Jesus Merion & Jesse Delperdang

Lettering by Rob Leigh

Colored by Allen Passalaqua

Plot

The Fourth Reich has obtained control of the world, imprisoning our favorite superheroes.  As each hero is made an example of, Mr. Terrific and the rest of the heroes work together to put an end to the Fourth Reich’s tyrannical reign of murder and destruction, but it may come at a very high cost.

My Thoughts

Like most stories set in the future, the world is now a grim and destructive place, only now it’s ruled by an evil Nazi regime.  I can’t really say that there are any uplifting moments within this book, apart from the fact that Willingham provides a hint of hope that the heroes have a plan to get out of this mess and end the Fourth Reich’s rule.  But truly, nothing good comes out of this issue, only misery and despair. 

Writing & Themes

Willingham is doing an excellent job at maintaining the “old school” feel that should always be apart of the Justice Society.  Superman’s fight with Behemoth was a classic rendition of the corny dialogue and narrative prose used in the golden age, almost humorous in its stature. Yet at the same time, the fight gives off a sense of purpose, as if the corniness is needed to establish the heroes’ ability to adapt quickly to any situation.  We already know that the heroes have a plan, while not knowing what it is, but this issue shows us that even without a plan, a crippled superhero is still a threat to an evil doers endeavors.

As a way of presenting this new Nazi driven world to his readers, he creates the disturbingly happy and uplifting “Good Morning Fourth Reich” TV show, with two hosts flashing their Nazi symbols both proudly and naturally.  Willingham shows us a world where tyranny and murder are an acceptable form of entertainment.  In addition, the Nazi’s themselves seem to enjoy watching the heroes suffer as they taunt and humiliate them.  As young people, we are taught to hate the Nazi belief system and what they did so long along, Willingham appeals to this socially constructed fact to write a story that we can all be drawn too despite the fact that nothing good happens.

Within those first 25 pages, Willingham provides the ultimate premise to a story where everything goes to hell.  All the heroes loose their powers, either being severely injured or dying.  With this being the third chapter in a five part story arc, we’ve reached the penultimate point in the story where it really does seem like there’s no hope…which makes it the best chapter in the story!  The shooting of Batman and the joker was not entirely surprising but definitely interesting.  As I knew Blue Beetle was going to attack Mr. Terrific however, (as planned) I did not expect him too be shot in the head by a Nazi soldier.  The questions that hit my mind at that moment were, “Is this story cannon?  How will this story be concluded?  Is there a plan for it to make sense within the DC Universe as this could very well throw everything off course in DC’s mapping of their world?”  This is what makes Willingham such a great writer, always knowing how to raise questions in his reader’s minds about the effect his stories will have on the surrounding societies.

Rating: Writing – 10 / Themes - 10

Art

Merino has a very static approach to his characters, which works perfectly with Willingham’s story telling.  And as he isn’t my favorite artist, this writer/artist team-up is spot-on perfect.  I’m not as familiar with Merino’s artwork so I can’t say if this is typical for him, but the style is incredibly well done for this title and I hope he sticks around on the JSA for a while.

Rating: 10

Overall Rating: 10 out of 10 stars, + 2 incentive points.

Next Issue Coming May 26, 2010

Mr. Terrific gathers the ragged remains of the Justice Society in a last-ditch attack on the Fourth Reich, and their power-negating Darkness Engine. If they fail this time, there's no coming back from the devastation!

Comic Book Review: Batman & Robin #11

Book Information

Written by Grant Morrison

Art by Andy Clarke & Scott Hanna

Plot

Damian Wayne and Oberon Sexton keep Dick Grayson safe from harm as he attempts to uncover the mystery behind Bruce Wayne’s time traveling disappearance.  But while this happens, we find Sexton is not what he seems to be, and Talia isn’t a loving mother as I’m SURE we originally thought. 

My Thoughts

It seems my eyes are not what they used to be as I couldn’t see the greatness of this book that everyone else sees it to be.  The book has some pretty outstanding moments, but quite frankly, overall the book lacks in a substance that I would deem as an awesome achievement on the part of Grant Morrison.

Writing

What we have at the beginning is an out of place introduction which actually works well in the overarching theme of the story.  Raising questions in reader’s minds is one of my favorite ways to open up a story…one of Morrison’s better qualities.  I won’t reveal who this mystery guest is; you’ll just need to read the issue yourself.  We then transition into the graveyard rumble scene while Grayson embarks on some pretty epic discoveries below. 

Like I said, the book starts off great and ends great, but the stuff in between brings the book way down for me.  The bulk if this issue consists of a redundant fight scene with small glimpses of the much more important plot driving aspects of the story.  The mystery that Grayson seems to be unveiling and the unmotherly usage that Talia takes on her son were not utilized to the extent that could have made this issue even better.  The strong points of a story should never be under minded for the sake of an action sequence that really serves no purpose except to fill up space.  The last five pages, however, are pretty epic and clearly show that some revelations will be made next month as too Sexton’s identity, and possibly the whereabouts of Bruce Wayne. 

Rating: 6

Themes

The themes in this issue actually come off pretty strong, like the possibility of Sexton’s Identity being that of Bruce Wayne and Talia taking control of her son to kill Grayson.  But what hit me the most was how Damian’s immature, abrasive behavior has been nothing more than an act.  I’ve never like Damian, even before he took up the Robin mantle.  For the past ten issues, Morrison has given Damian the same annoying demeanor that I’m sure we all have come to know and hate, but this month’s issue approaches the young lad’s character a little differently.  Damian’s entire attitude has been nothing more than a façade to help cover up his own weaknesses and torn childhood; finding some way of coping with the fact that his upbringing and parentage has been less than satisfactory.

I do wonder how the mythology of Barbatos is going to play out in the Return of Bruce Wayne and why it’s an important clue in the story.  Mythology is one of my favorite aspects of DC Comics which gives me hope that the return of Bruce Wayne could be better than I originally thought.

Rating: 9

Art

Fans seem to really enjoy Andy Clarke’s artwork.  I don’t share those sentiments.  I find his penciling to be incredibly static and wooden, having very little emotional impact and visually appealing qualities.  The Graveyard fight scene was a poorly done piece of work. I felt like I was watching a fight scene with action figures.  You know how you have too pose your figures before making them fight the bad guy?  Was Clarke playing with his Batman and Robin toys as a way of inspiring his art?  Whatever the case, I did not enjoy it.

Rating: 0

Rating: 5 out of 10 stars

Next Issue Coming May 5, 2010

All is revealed in this final installment of "Batman vs. Robin" – the identity of the Domino Killer, the terrifying secret of the dominoes, and the shocking truth behind El Penitente! All of this, plus the surprising return of a fanfavorite character!

Comic Book Review: Action Comics #888

Book Information

Written by Greg Rucka & Eric Trautmann

Art by Pere Perez

Plot

With Nightwing trapped yet again in the Phantom Zone by the deceptive Jax-Ur, and Flamebird’s emotions at their breaking point, the clone of Rao walks closer and closer to achieving ultimate power.  Flamebird must do all she can to distract Jax-Ur while the JSA fight off the oncoming nuclear onslaught of the Pakistan and Indian military.

Also, Can Nightwing come to terms with who he really is and once and for all defeat Vohc-The-Breaker?

My Thoughts

Action Comics, in these last few months, has mustered itself up as being the mythological archetype for the modern comic book era.  The story surrounding Nightwing and Flamebird has developed so much in such a short amount of time that I wonder if this story was planned out years ago, waiting for the right moment to rise up.  While the comic itself isn’t the best I’ve read, it takes quite a few strides in further developing the story of the two Kryptonian legends.

Writing

The story in and of itself has its good points and low points.  The book’s setting goes from being on Earth, to the Phantom Zone.  While on Earth, Flamebird partakes in a knuckle bearing knock down with Jax-Ur…or Vohc-The-Breaker, I’m never quite sure what to call him.  While she does this, the two Eastern military forces armed themselves to take out the super-sized cloned God of a former planet Krypton, which was apparently his plan all along.  This plot development, while still used well, isn’t necessarily the strongest literary approach.  Personally I find it hard to swallow and a bit contrived (Boy, I love that word don’t I?!?) that Rao, in that short amount of time figure out that the missiles, after crashing onto the very spot he stands, would allow him enough power to grow an exponential amount.  It works for the story, but in and of itself is a bit unrealistic.

Speaking of unrealistic plots, how was that second trip to the Phantom Zone for our little Nightwing?  It was one of the most interesting and creatively done sequences I’ve ever seen in comics.  What I couldn’t tell was if Chris was actually talking with himself, or if the Nightwing and Chris somehow became two completely separate entities entirely.  The verbal exchange between the two was spot on perfect, allowing Chris time to realize who he really was deep down inside.

Rating: 7

Themes

The thematic scale is off the charts for me with this issue.  I’m not entirely sure where to start.  The moment Chris throws away the only piece of glass showing him the outside world as if all hope is lost, The amount of triumph that fills the pages as Wonder Woman flies in and breaks open Rao’s eye, this issue is almost too jammed packed to list everything that was good in one review.  But the theme that Greg Rucka wanted in the forefront of our minds was everything surrounding Nightwing and the Phantom Zone.

I think this was a much needed turn of events in the Nightwing and Flamebird mythos.  I wasn’t even sure if Chris was THE Nightwing or not, but the last page obliterated any doubts I might have had. 

Rating: 10

Art

Perez really outdid himself here.  The toggle from the scenes on Earth and the Phantom Zone were incredibly well contrasted, one portraying Perez’s typical style we see from week to week, the other presenting a much more painted look.  I sometimes forget the array of emotional impacts that using many shades of only one or two colors that can be presented in a piece of art.  The image of the Nightwing presenting itself to Chris was horrifically gorgeous.  The use of the dark, misty light creates such a deep emotional impact that both mystifies and horrifies. 

The cover could very well be one of the best covers of the year.  The feeling of heat radiates all throughout it as the three heroes displayed honestly look as if they can’t push through the flames shooting at them.  And this cover also achieves some incredible artistry by only using many shades of one color.

Rating: 10

Overall

While not the greatest piece of work on the literary side, overall this book achieved some masterful work within the genre.

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars

Next Issue Coming April 28, 2010

ACTION COMICS ships twice in April! In issue #889, with the fate of both New Krypton and Earth weighing on their young shoulders, are Nightwing and Flamebird prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice? And in the co-feature, Captain Atom has managed to find a way back to Mirabai's world, intent on confronting the woman who made him a tool of destruction — but what stunning revelation awaits him there?

Comic Book Review: Justice League #43

Book Information

Written by James Robinson

Art by Mark Bagley

Plot

Questions arise in each JLA members mind as to how the team is doing as a whole, and individually.  The newly appointed Justice League find themselves in a state of uncertainty while a new found menace confronts the team and challenges them on a whole new level.  Can the League come to terms with their inner demons with time enough to save an old ally?

My Thoughts

As Cry for Justice came to a close, Mr. Robinson was put in between a rock and a hard place.  First he has to deal with the fact that Green Arrow has fallen victim to uncertainty and feels his place might not be with the League, and second, we have Starfire who decided to leave rather suddenly and without explanation.  Two characters of which I’m sure was not of Robinson choosing to have leave the league.  With that being said, the quality of this particular issue was less than satisfying.

Writing

Like most writers, Robinson’s ability to use poetic language is quite good.  In fact, you could say this about most writers in the industry; they have the natural ability to write beautiful dialogue, a poetic prose, and emotional highlights in a story.  But one thing you have to do in making a story at least somewhat interesting to your readers is at least know what is going on in your own story.

I understand the connection between the different events going on, but the transitions make the story seem more confusing than it actually is.  While the team is still under going some uncertainty within the ranks, the heroes seem to jump from one battle to the next without any concrete reason why.  Plus, the constant toggle between one inner monologue to the next is a bit jolting.  I’m never sure who the protagonist is; whether it is Green Arrow, Donna Troy, Batman, etc., it is unclear who our central focus should be on.  And as we learned from the Tim Burtonized and Joel Schumacherized Batman films, having one too many character focused plots in one story can cause MAJOR problems.

I’m not entirely clear as to why The JSA was brought into the story on that very last page, huddling around a dying Alan Scott, especially since he’s died in an issue of JSA already.  Another reason why this issue didn’t make any sense from start to finish, continuity is key.

And can anyone tell me why Red Tornado is still in the pages of the JLA?  Over half of his time has been spent in pieces!

Rating: 2

Themes

While the writing of the overarching story was severely lacking, the thematic scenery was a tad more enjoyable.  The title of the arc, ‘Team History,’ gives a hint that their will be a nostalgic approach in the telling of this story.  The first three pages give us a nicely faded ‘in the past’ tint.  The past is painted as a much happier time for the League due to the smiling and smirking heroes as they bring down their foe, which quickly turns into a green, yellow, and violet light show as an indicator that we have moved into the present.  It’s obvious through Green Arrow’s face that something doesn’t feel quite right; that or he’s still conflicted with the devastating event that occurred in his home town of Star City weeks ago.  Either way, the connection should be made that he currently doesn’t feel right.

The cover is actually quite interesting.  The spilt down the middle, showing two contrasting, yet comparable images of the past and present League, is a clear depiction of the story contained within.  I rather enjoy it when the cover forces readers to call upon their analytical skills to deduce what a story might be about.

As stated above, the heroes’ inner monologues continually jog to us from one person to the next faster than the Road Runner in Looney Tunes.  Batman questions if Bruce Wayne would have approved of this new Leagues crime fighting methods, Donna Troy is satisfied and enjoying how things are going but conflicted with Starfire’s sudden departure, Starman can’t seem to decide what he’s feeling, and Congorilla Bill is allowing his emotions to get the better of him.  An interesting take, despite its unfocused literary organization.

Rating: 6

Art

Once again, Mark Bagley produces some amazing art.  I did feel a bit jolted by the extreme overdose on color, but then again, Ivan Reis’ art in Blackest Night was quite enjoyable for me, so I don’t see why I should be distracted by this similar approach.  I think the chaotic intervals between panels is what got to me the most.  Bagley is amazing, but I feel he went a little too far with the visuals...in essence, he was TOO good.

Despite that, he did present some really great pin-up worthy images.  My favorite would most definitely have to be of Starfire flaming out of the old JLA headquarters orbiting Earth.  In and of itself, the art is amazing, it just didn’t integrate well into the story as it should have.

Rating: 6

Overall

If Robinson had written a better story, this issue could have received an above average rating, but his script truly did kill the story.  That is a pity too; last month was so good that I was ecstatic for this one.

Rating: 4.67 out of 10 stars

Next Issue Coming April 21, 2010

A BRIGHTEST DAY tie-in! Following the events of BLACKEST NIGHT, the brand new Justice League of America enters into BRIGHTEST DAY with an arc featuring the Justice Society of America. The epic team-up begins with a character from the end of BLACKEST NIGHT joining the JLA. But when the storyline's over, what mysterious villain will be revealed – and which hero will switch teams?