Review: Jupiter’s Legacy #3

Well. It’s been a few months, hasn’t it, Jupiter’s Legacy? Time delays notwithstanding, I’ve heard a bunch of discontent from the comic book community recently about anything associated with Millar. I suppose I understand a certain amount of that - his stuff recently has been criticized (rightly so, some of the time) for being “samey” in its expectedly gritty style and “flawed superhuman with a twist” thematic approach. However, his work on Jupiter’s Legacy with Frank Quitely, while building somewhat methodically over its first two issues, proves to be, in its third outing, pretty fucking special. If any issue thus far could sway you to start following this mature-content take on The Incredibles II, it’s Jupiter’s Legacy #3.

I guess you could say the shit really hits the fan here, and if you did, I wouldn’t hold it against you. This world’s new generation of superhumans - the sons and daughters of the original intrepid heroes who first achieved godlike powers via a mystical and mysterious island - finally move against their elders in what could only be described as a very bloody super-coup.

The core conflict being fought over here, however, isn’t necessarily generational. Much of it has to do with the level of involvement super”heroes” should have in the political and sociological affairs of the rest of the world, with the altruistic and old-fashioned Utopian (think an older version of Kingdom Come Superman) championing a laissez-faire approach, and his brother Walter (Magneto with the powers of Xavier, I guess?) arguing a more hands-on tactic, ostensibly allowing humanity to benefit from their superior abilities and intellects.

The outcome? Well, let’s just say that things, as they are often wont to do, change. And they do so here violently, and with nonexistent remorse. I think Millar is really at his best here again. There is much more going on in this book than the action-packed fare I mentioned above, and he is able to express some very intimate, character moments resoundingly in the interims.

I love the dynamic that he has established - albeit briefly - with the human side of The Utopian, as well as the very ground-level problems he and his wife are dealing with in their newly pregnant daughter, knocked-up by the son of this world’s most infamous villain. Their relationship in particular takes on new importance after this issue, and it will be very interesting to see where Millar goes with it.

Millar also manages his space well this issue, giving those familial problems a pressing gravity before completely swallowing them within a much more tempestuous, deadly battle. It’s a sudden shift, and a jarring one, but it is clearly meant to be so. This world is irrevocably destroyed after this issue, and I have only a vague idea of where it might be going from here, let alone how it’s going to end; but if this is any indication, it’s going to be quite the furious flurry, in no small part thanks to Frank Quitely.

One of the things I love most about Quitely’s art - and there are many things in that category - is the way he chooses to portray action; often not in the impact, but in the aftershock. For example, you don’t expressly see Chloe (The Utopian’s prodigal daughter) being punched through a house - you simply see the rubble still lingering in the air, a crater left by an invisible force. He does it a lot in his other books as well - the whoosh of Superman’s contrail; his sudden, Wile E. Coyote-esque puff of dust - and for some reason, it always works for me, visually.

I just find it more powerful than seeing five steely knuckles sock an unbreakable square jaw; of course, Quitely is no slouch in that department either, and we get a great amount of classic ass-kicking, superhero stylee ... but to a degree that can only exist in a Millar book. That’s not a knock, mind you, because the excessive gore used here makes a solid point: this is the visceral end of things, innocence skewered and wallowing in its own bloodline.

There are two scenes in particular in this book that make this issue a firm contender for art of the month - one of which involves a basically bifurcated housewife, and the other a gripping version of what happened just recently in a Big Two event book. The juxtaposition of domestic setting and efficient, uncaring savagery in the latter was stark and - pun intended - grave, but also bright and wistful: a sick combination that permeates every corner of this book, both artistically and narratively.

Despite its delays and its hype, I’ve really enjoyed Jupiter’s Legacy so far, and issue three is by far its best yet. Sure, it may ring familiar at points, but where this book takes this story is somewhere I, for one, have not been before. And I’m liking where we’re going.

Score: 5/5

Writer: Mark Millar Artist: Frank Quitely Colorist: Peter Doherty Publisher: Image Comics Price: $2.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Group Review: TMNT #26 – "City Fall" Part 5

As promised here’s our continued coverage of “City Fall” which has proved to be one of the biggest Turtles storylines in years and even better it’s been one of the better “event books” of the comic year. Each of the writers/reviews of Comic Bastards will give the issue a score of: Buy, Borrow or Pass along with a short reason for the score. Here’s a blurb from IDW before we begin: While Leonardo and the Foot bring the fight to the Savate ninjas, the other Turtles call upon all of their allies to prepare for War. City Fall continues to escalate when Splinter crosses a line by helping Old Hob get his revenge!

Samantha: BUY

First thought, woah how badass does Donnie look on this cover?! Second thought, why the hell did they ruin it with Mikey’s cracked out face on the bottom? Samantha’s two sense for the day.

I ate this issue right up. Buy the shit out of this issue. I fell in love with its action sequencing right from the start. Leo and The Foot crashing the party was a total badass representation of what makes great comics.

Lots of different stories going will no doubt add up to an intense conclusion. The intensity is already so tight. The Purple Dragons becoming evil once again, Old Hob being crazy, Karai planning her revenge, and so on. It is all so good that when I got to the end I wanted more of it. Karai and Alopex are leading into some interesting stories, so I think theirs is the most anticipated for me. But hands down Splinter is taking the award for the coolest. The gang is worried about him, and frankly, this makes his character more involved than ever before. I think this is the best issue yet. It had everything a comic needs; my only downfall about it is that the next issue already looks better.

Steve: BUY

Even though we’re still being cock-teased here with the absence of Bebop and Rocksteady, TMNT #26 continues “City Fall’s” resounding success, at very least, in getting me hugely interested in a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles title. On the downside, I did find this one very exposition heavy, with the three still-good turtles shoring up their resources for the coming battle. But once this book gets to its inevitable collision, it comes heavy and with fury, and I love how it further feeds its looming war.

The art - particularly in some of the backgrounds - does come across a bit lazy here, but the look of the Turtles themselves is finally starting to grow on me. This is especially true of Dark Leonardo, who remains the best thing about this story. The action is fluid, fast and damn fun, perfectly befitting something with TMNT in the title, but with a heartier punch than you might expect. It may have a slow middle (after a nicely done, feel-heavy intro), but this issue’s robust derrière is luscious enough to keep me coming back next time.

Adam: BUY

I didn’t enjoy the last issue too much, but I loved this one.  The story was great and intertwined different plot points together extremely well.  This issue for the Turtles was all about trying to find out who’s really on their side and sticking together through all the crap they’re going through.  I loved the books’ art-especially during the action sequences.  I was definitely wow-ed by it and found myself examining the different panels for subtleties that the artist threw in.  I like the dark nature of the issue, but I would’ve liked them to push it a bit further.  I guess they can’t do that since they’re under license to Nickelodeon, but it got old all of the times they said ‘crap’ or ‘damn.’  It just isn’t believable that these evil characters would talk like middle schoolers.  It goes without saying that it would’ve been cooler to see more gore in the fight sequences as well, but overall I’d say this is an issue well worth buying.

Dustin: BUY

This issue wasn’t as amazing as the last, but it was still a “buy” in my book. It reminds me of the third issue in the arc which built the plot more than anything else. I do wish that Bebop and Rocksteady made an appearance as it was teased in the last issue, but I’m guessing that won’t happen until their solo issue explaining their origin. One thing is very clear about the story from this issue though, they really are gearing up for something big. Personally I think that they’re going to pull an “X-Men” and have the Turtles leave Master Splinter’s side feeling that they can’t trust him, but we’ll see. It’s going to be a very different series after this arc and I’m looking forward to that as much as I am the conclusion. This is the most interesting the Turtles have been since I first discovered them as a kid and that’s just an awesome feeling to have.

Score: Buy It!

Story: Kevin Eastman, Boby Curnow & Tom Waltz Writers: Tom Waltz Artist: Mateus Santolouco with Charles Paul Wilson III Publisher: IDW Publishing Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Dual Review: Revival #14

A dual review is a lot like a group review… but with fewer people. Today Dustin and Adam are going to tackle the latest issue of Revival and each give a score meaning double scoring! Here’s a quick blurb about the issue from Image before we begin. Em seeks redemption for herself by vowing to protect a young girl from the creature that haunts her. But can even a girl that can't die deal with something that may not be alive?

Adam:

Out of any book in comics right now, I can say I’m most obsessed with Revival.  I have pages and pages of notes in my iPod that I use every month when I sit down and read that I use for questions, character descriptions and connections, predictions etcetera.  I’m invested into everything about this book: the fantastic cast of characters, the layers of depth in the story, and everything in-between.  So it’s safe to say I’m pretty stoked on reading issue #14 before it comes out.

As the cover suggests, this issue revolves around Em and Jordan pretty much the whole time.  It could be considered a part two to last month’s issue really.  Jordan hears the ghostly being’s (or ‘passenger’ as Em refers to them) way louder than Em and they seem to be out for Jordan.  I thought it was really interesting how Tim Seeley writes Jordan-even though she’s only eight; she’s wise beyond her years and may be more rational about the whole reviver situation than anyone else is in Wisconsin.  She accuses Em of not listening to her by saying “You’re like all the adults.  You only hear what you want to,” and she actually pokes Em’s eye out which was pretty gross.  It seems pretty symbolic as to why she does this, but I don’t want to give anything away.

May Tao is still at the hospital, and I thought a really interesting point was when Blaine confesses to May that he’s seen three revivers.  His own uncle was the first.  He says the revivers aren’t human beings; they’re just a body with a demon inside them that’s taken over.  Are the revivers more dangerous and evil than they let on to be, and will they start to cause problems soon?  I also love how interesting these ghostly creatures are.  If they get inside a reviver, they burn it inside out, like when Joe finally gets his ring back from Mrs. Vang.  It seems so far that this is the only way revivers can truly die.  And when it does happen, it’s like the reviver is experiencing a sweet release-like they know they should be dead, which is exactly what the passenger tells them.  But Em knows how to kill those creatures; back in issue five or so she threw a ring into the river and one of them died trying to get the ring out of the water. This issue though, she ends up saving Jordan by popping out of the lake they’re standing by, putting the passenger that's after her in a headlock, and throwing it down into the water.

I love the dialogue in this book to, even if it’s a character talking to themselves.  For example, right before Em saves her, everything Jordan says is so bleak and depressing.  It’s chillingly beautiful little soliloquy.  She genuinely wants to die, and she’s mad that Em saves her.  “[Talking about her mom]…She doesn’t say that anymore.  But that’s what she thinks.  ‘I am very disappointed in you.’”  The ending is awesome, but it would be cruel of me to give it away since I think everyone should go out and buy this book.

I love the art, both Jenny Frison’s cover and Mike Norton’s interior art.  My only criticism about anything in this book is that when Norton draws women’s faces they’re not always consistent.  I remember when I first started reading the book sometimes I had trouble determining if I was looking at Dana or Em.  Dana’s only in the first few pages, but her face looks different in one of the panels to me.  The same goes for Em, not so much Jordan though.  I know that’s a minor gripe and not a huge deal, but I had to put some criticism in this review.  Other than that, Revival once again proves to be in it for the long run, and I’ll be there every step of the way.

Dustin:

I’ve reviewed basically every issue of Revival and it’s not out of some sense of obligation or a strange streak that I want to keep alive; it’s because this is one of my all-time favorite series. As well as it does I think it should be doing better, but some comic readers continue to overlook it and that’s bound to happen even more as it climbs the double digits which is a terrible crime against this series.

What always amazes me about this series is that it manages to be better with each issue; it manages to surprise with each issue. Usually when people say that they’re just riding a fanboy high and objectively look at series for what it is. That’s not the case here. As much as I enjoy this series and often save it for last to read, I go in each issue expecting it to let me down in some way. It’s happened with just about every series that I would put in my “Top Five”, but it’s yet to happen with Revival and the series has one of the highest issue counts of my favorites. Things like Saga have let me down with aspects of its story and even Harbinger has delivered an average issue here or there, but not Revival. This damn book is just too good.

I really do hate the fact that it’s so under appreciated. I mean I can get that if people think it’s a horror book and they don’t like horror, that they won’t like this. But really it’s a supernatural soap opera. This issue was fantastic and though it’s a strange spot for a new reader to start it could very easily hook you on the series as you’re going to come in on a very large chunk of the puzzle being solved. Norton and Seeley are at their finest and are definitely my top creative team of the year.

Score: 5/5 and 5/5

Writer: Tim Seeley Artist: Mike Norton Publisher: Image Comics Price: $2.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Review: The Other Dead #1

This comic is pretty fucked up. I heard Kevin Eastman was going to be a part of this series, and I thought that this could bring some interesting light to the dead zombie world. The quick rundown is that a town in Louisiana gets hit with animals turning into zombies. Reading horror comics always brings about this point in the reader where too much gore is just too much gore. The funny thing about me is that I don’t mind the gore...only when it isn’t taking away the true theme of the story. This story seems a little too gore driven to really grasp the main idea. And having the gore center around animals makes me a little sick to my stomach. Ok I am wimp. I get that but something in my psyche makes animal abuse one of the worst possible things to watch. So this comic was tough to wrap the theme around when the ducks’ throats are being torn open. The story follows two brothers, Az and Tommy. Az is a hard-core metal band member whose only focus is fucking his gf and making some badass music. Tommy is the younger brother and seems to have something wrong with him. Maybe he is just weird, but I think he has a disease of some sort. The family is just a southern white trash family. It explores a family that not a lot of us get to see, so I will give them credit there. The whole outbreak approaches when some hunters get attacked by a deer they just nailed down. Again, they could have just shot the deer but instead blow the deer’s brains out; too excessive for me. Now the comic backtracks a couple of days in order to play the events before the attack. It is clear that Az and his buddies have something to do with this outbreak. It isn’t clear what, but these boys hold the key to finding the truth.

The art uses bold colors, by Blond, which adds a nice layer to the story. I really feel like I am in some sort of Everglades. I think this story would make more sense in Florida because it gives off that vibe, but I guess Louisiana works just as well.  Qing Ping Mui’s art isn’t my style. It is way too disproportionate and makes every human look awkward. I could pass on the art.

I think the weirdest part about this comic is the fact that Obama may have a huge part in the series. He is on one of the variant covers, which tells me that he will play a key role in the animal zombie attack. Strange! I may check out the next couple of issues just to see what the hell is going on, but doubt I will enjoy them. Like I said, I don’t think this type of family is used enough in comics, because some states cultures do seem like a totally other country, but it was a letdown for sure. I guess if you dig zombies and the whole horror showdown between animals and humans then pick this up on behalf of us who can’t stand even reading non-fiction about animal torture.

Score: 2/5

Writer: Joshua Ortega Artist: Qing Ping Mui Publisher: IDW Publishing Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Possibly Avengers 2: Age of Ultron Teaser Trailer?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZVbRfO0hik If it is fake then they went through hell to make it look like it wasn't. You decide.

Source

Review: D&D: Forgotten Realms – Cutter #5

Even the slightest glimpse at my previous reviews for this series and you’ll know that it’s been a hit with me since the beginning. The artwork is striking and caught my attention instantly and kept me coming back for more, it was only a plus that the story was entertaining and interesting as well. Unfortunately, and it pains me to say this, the conclusion of the series failed to meet the mark of the previous four chapters and delivered an average at best story. The artwork remained amazing as the first issue, but was given next to nothing to work with in this final issue. In the last issue we saw Tos’un betray his wife Sinnafain in order to progress into the caves of the Underdark with his daughter. We pick up in this issue with Tos’un carrying Doum and her being rather confused by everything. She begins talking decently normal and her father continues to tell white lies about her situation. He also knows what the sword is telling her to do and what it’s saying about him at times, but for the first time in the entire series… we’re not given the swords dialog. The rest of the issue is spent with Father and Daughter traveling the caves to reach Tos’un’s home and him telling her half-truths.

The thing about this series is that it’s never been about Doum, but rather about the sword “Cutter.” Yes the father has played a huge role in shaping the story and guiding Doum and technically the sword, but he’s always been in the background. I didn’t have a problem with him playing a larger role since it was impossible for him not to, but I do have a problem with the huge narrative shift on the final issue. If it was gearing up for the next arc that would be one thing, but this series technically ends with this issue, hence “The End” appearing on the final page. I wouldn’t doubt that the story is going to continue, but it’s bad storytelling to just say, “We’ll get them next time” and leave this chapter of the story with its ass hanging out in the wind. There’s no conclusion to the events of the series and all character development was completely halted. Now I understand the gimmick of marketing a new mini with a fresh first issue, but if that was going to be the case then this should have been the first issue for the next volume not the ending of this one. My argument for this is in the dialog as everything father and daughter talk about is just a recap of the events that lead to their current journey.

As I said in the beginning the artwork doesn’t disappoint, but it’s given nothing to work with. Baldeon does a great job of showing the characters emotions as they arise in the conversations. This is the only place that you get a true sense of the characters personalities and really how evil Tos’un is; other than that though… they’re just walking through a cave. Baldeon has illustrated some incredible action sequences and granted the story needed a break, but to not find something he could illustrate that was equally amazing just seems like a waste; caves and water are not the proper replacement.

Don’t get me wrong the issue is still purchase worthy, but it’s nothing compared to the previous four issues. The story is average in every sense of the word, while the art is striving to be anything but. If you were on the fence with the last issue then you might want to just call it there since this issue doesn’t offer anything other than a set up for the next series (which is sure to have a recap anyways), but if like me you were really looking forward to this issue and plan on getting it anyways… then brace yourself.

Score: 3/5

Writers: R.A. Salvatore & Geno Salvatore Artist: David Baldeon Publisher: IDW Publishing Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Review: Criminal Macabre - The Eyes of Frankenstein #1

Dark Horse has been knocking it out of the park lately with mini-series, and Criminal Macabre: The Eyes of Frankenstein seems to be no exception.  A grim, gritty story combined with a familiar character and a little bit of black humor is a great read in my book.  This issue delivers on that and more. The story follows Cal McDonald, an aspirin-loving alcoholic detective who, at this point in the Criminal Macabre storyline is angry.  Angry because he’s been losing friends due to his cases-but now he has a new lease on life-or, death.  Thanks to his undead red-eyed cohort Mo’lock, he’s now a ghoul.  That sounds better than being dead, but Mo’lock informs Cal that there’s an imminent war to be waged between ghouls and monsters on the dirty streets of LA.

Mo has some good news for Cal, but not before Cal can do some damage to it.  One of their ghoul brethren named Pete presents a new car to Cal.  Mo’lock says to Cal that they’re being followed so he notices the car, and Cal just opens fire on it.  This part made me chuckle a bit, Mo tried to surprise Cal with a new car, and he tries to kill one of their own by accident.  The undead duo find out the bad news that there are many ghouls dying… and nobody knows why.  Cal makes it very clear that ghouls are tough; at one point he punches Mo full-force in the face while driving after he says he’ll put the new car on Cal’s tab.  This part made me laugh too-this sock in the face seemed nothing more than a playful pat on the back to us humans.  Not only are they tough, they’re extremely hard to kill.  Cal says that ghouls can still live with their heads cut off, you have to completely destroy the head and body to kill them.  Burning them alive (if you can hold them down that long) is also a viable option.  Why this amount of ghouls are simply dying is a mystery.

While examining the dying ghouls, Cal gets a phone call from Officer Wheatley.  Wheatley needs him to go into a library in North Hollywood that is being destroyed.  Officers are being thrown out windows and the structure inside is crumbling.  Cal has a hunch on who might be creating this havoc.  Sure enough, we meet Frankenstein.  We learn that Frankenstein is going blind, and without reading he has nothing.  Cal vows to help Frankenstein (who in the book to this point is nameless) get new eyes, and we’re left with an endearing panel of Frankenstein taking Cal’s hand.

The art fit the feel of the book perfectly.  It’s almost sketch-like, there’s not much detail but there’s not anything lacking either.  There’s a lot to love about this book: it’s easy to follow, the two main characters are crazy but loveable, and the introduction of Frankenstein and his problem only induce more questions.  Since he’s a monster but now a friend of Cal, whose side will he fight on in the war?  How does Cal plan to help him find new eyes?  I guess we’ll have to find out in issue #2, an issue I will certainly be checking out.

Score: 4/5

Writer: Steve Niles Artist: Christopher Mitten Publisher: Dark Horse Comics Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Review: Tomorrowland #3

This issue was definitely different from the rest of the series. The strange thing is that not a lot happens, but I couldn’t stop reading it. Even though I figured out where the story was going almost instantly I was still entertained with some of the story choices and when I arrived at the ending I was still impressed. I’m definitely looking forward to the conclusion and hope that the tone and style is in line with this issue of the series. There’s a lot of recapping in this issue, but it works for the story. There’s been a lot going on so having someone give a simple breakdown for the events contained within the narrative keeps everyone up to date. The issue kicks off with Mike being kidnapped by the dark one. In typical villain fashion he begins pitting Mike against his brother by filling his head full of lies.

After this we jump over to Dimitri and find him continuing the good fight playing his and Mike’s music where ever he can. At this part of the story I didn’t quite understand how much time had passed, but to me it seemed like Mike had basically been gone for almost a year. I could be wrong as the dialogue didn’t always match this, but the way the story outlined the once a year event of Tomorrowland it made it seem as if a lot of time had passed.

I still think this is one of the most unique stories that Jenkins has told and it’s definitely a unique comic book. It’s one of those stories that are meant for the medium and because of that Jenkins tailor makes the story for comic books. There wasn’t exactly any character development in this issue, but again it managed to hold my attention the entire time.

Stellar Labs’ art is still quite good on the series and while not a lot happens in this issue they are given some big splash pages to illustrate and they knock it out of the park. It’s awesome to see the art just take over a page like that and bring the world to life.

I don’t feel like there’s a lot to say about this issue. If you’ve been reading the series I think you’ll dig this issue as well and will be left looking forward to the conclusion. It’s an interesting series that manages to be entertaining so check it out.

Score: 3/5

Writer: Paul Jenkins Artists: Alti Firmansyah and Beny Maulana of Stellar Labs Publisher: Titan and Atomeka Comics Price: $3.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

Review: Captain Midnight #3

Well this series is starting to heat up! Dark Horse and this series have been hinting about a shared superhero universe and labeling things with “Project Black Sky.” The biggest piece of the puzzle falls into place with this issue and the world of Captain Midnight gets a whole lot bigger. The issue kicks off with Lady Shark talking about her father and how he was a genius and showing all the evil things that he did in the name of science. She says that he always said that he felt Midnight would one day respect him at least, but that she felt that wasn’t true because he watched him get eaten by Polar Bears… which is still funny. The rest of the story is pretty easy to figure out as the Captain must of course save Charlotte and escape. The other side of the story is actually more interesting as it reveals another layer to the plot that as the reader you’ll never see coming. I know you’re thinking I already told you, but I didn’t.

I like this series, but there are things that bother me. I don’t mind that’s its cheesy at times in fact I like that, but I don’t like this angle of Captain Midnight and Charlotte having a relationship and her ex-husband acting as the third wheel. I get that she looks like her grandmother, but it really cheapens the all of the character relationships. Her simple kiss on the check completely went against the character of the women that basically grew up hearing about this man and became sick of even hearing his name. It also shows that CM is willing to move on to any hot dame and completely forget and ignore his relationship with her grandmother and it just snowballs from there when you include Charlotte’s ex who’s a huge CM fan. The thing is, there isn’t a lot of focus on it, but it’s enough to stand out and really bother me. Also the ex’s basically putting their jobs on hold to help CM was beyond convenient.

I enjoy the world that Williamson is crafting, but I’m not in love with it and see potential storylines brewing that I can’t say I would be interested in. I liked the loner CM that built a super jet in three days and is willing to punch anyone that talks shit to him. The aspects of the plot that were added in this issue are interesting and will definitely keep me coming back, but the character’s relationships are actually starting to get in the way of the story.

The art continues to be great on this series. Dagnino can draw a mean Polar Bear and though I don’t know why they’re so hungry for human flesh, I really don’t care either. Lady Shark is a great character as she looks and acts like the Baroness from G.I. Joe, but is in charge of her own destiny… or so it seems for now. The action scenes were great looking and continue to be easy to follow.

Any new series is bound to have its hiccups and for me there might be one or two for this book, but not enough that I would walk away from it. For me I’d rather get to know the characters through their actions on their adventures rather than their strange Indiana Jones moments after the action is done. It could just be me of course, but overall I’m still really enjoying the title and will continue to do so.

Score: 3/5

Writer: Joshua Williamson Artist: Fernando Dagnino Publisher: Dark Horse Comics Price: $2.99 Release Date: 9/25/13

My Pull List For 9/25/13 - Steve Paugh

I don’t often use the word “smorgasbord,” but when I do, you can bet your ass I fucking mean it! And if ever there was a smorgasbord of comics to come out, it’s this week! Now, by no means is this list exhaustive; in fact, I’ve decided to take a Top 5 approach to keep it more concise, and I’m covering East of West and Jupiter’s Legacy in reviews this week, so you can check out my thoughts on those big recommendations elsewhere. Also feel free to fill in my gaps below (WINK!) with your own cornucopia of comic pick comments! Wow, smorgasbord and cornucopia in the same intro? We’re through the looking-glass, people...

Mind MGMT #15

Okay, first of all, I’m the Bastard reviewing this book these days, so admittedly, I “have to” read it for the site. But never before have I had such a welcome labor of love. Matt Kindt’s heady mental espionage puzzle continues on unabated, and I’ve loved every single piece he has lain in this complex narrative to date. This one promises a rather more focused spotlight on the elusive Henry Lyme, who also happens to be the beneficiary of one of the most compelling characterizations in comic books today. As with every issue featuring him, I am left to wonder if I will cheer him on ... or hope his erstwhile protégée Meru slits his throat. Icing on this already delicious cake is a cover quote from our very own Comic Bastard Commandant, Mr. Dustin Cabeal, which, to be fair, is worth the price of admission alone!

Avengers #20

This title, for me, exemplifies everything Marvel NOW! is, or at very least, what it intended to be: not, perhaps, a re-imagining, but a rethinking, a readjustment. In the hands of a talent like Hickman, this book in particular has become a slanted yet salient and cerebral thing, dipping in and out of introspective character study and massive, cosmic maneuvering with relative ease. Especially now that Infinity (aka, the best thing Marvel has done in fucking years) is ratcheting up speed and power, it’s pretty much compulsory to have this alongside it as a reader, as well as New Avengers (which is just as stellar, in more ways than one). Marvel has wisely given Hickman room to be his usual deranged self, while also playing to his strengths in long-form storytelling, and that has given this iteration of The Avengers perhaps its most unique feel ever: as comfortable following the spaces between punches as with their catastrophic impacts. It may make you think a bit more, but once you do - as with most everything Hickman does - it’s that much more rewarding.

Green Lantern #23.4 / Sinestro #1

I haven’t been following “Evil Month” or whatever this diluted DC dalliance is calling itself; oh, I’ve taken a peak at a few titles, but for the most part I’ve found them wanting. I did find some charm in Black Hand’s recent appearance (Kevin sums this up quite nicely on Episode 99 of the Comic Bastards CBMFP, which you should check out on Stitcher RIGHT NOW!) However, Sinestro is the beastliest beast that ever by-god beasted, which is another way of saying he’s my favorite villain, and I’d be remise if I didn’t snag this one if for no other reason than to see where he’s been since Geoff Johns set him free. I may even grab the damn novelty cover because I’m weak-willed ... which I think the Sinestro Corps would look upon with favor. Also, it’s written by Matt Kindt, and while he’s been hit or miss outside of his creator-owned stuff, there’s no way I’m missing his turn on one of my favorite baddies. I just hope he doesn’t shy away from showing us what has been going on with “Parallax Sinestro,” rather than just rehashing some origin story again. That would be a real waste, since Sinestro has always considered himself a force for order, if not “good,” and could be a key element as such against the Crime Syndicate. Just sayin’...

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #26

I seriously never thought that, post elementary school, I would be following a TMNT ... anything, let alone a comic book! When we started covering these as group reviews, I was THIS CLOSE (I’m doing that thing with my fingers ... no, not that thing; Jesus, get your mind out of the gutter) to emailing Dustin and opting out altogether. Maybe it was a sense of nostalgia or just a passing fancy that changed my mind, I dunno, but I’m damn glad I did. This “City Fall” arc has shown me that the boys in green have grown up - or at least their adventures have. Also, seeing Leonardo turned into an EVIL GODDAMN BADASS and pitted against his brothers has been really fun to watch. Complex, with nuanced characterization and an impressively growing threat of urban ninja war, I’m really looking forward to the next installment of this so-far brilliant story. PLUS, it gets us one step closer to Bebop and mafackin’ Rocksteady! Cowabunga, bitches.

Sex Criminals #1

Yup, this is the book that eeeeeeverybody and his or her fucking dog is talking about ... and dogs can’t even talk, you guys. Apparently, this one’s about two felonious fornicators who, when “making with the sex,” are able to stop time and thus, rob the shit out of banks. The solicit for this one promises something, “in the vein of THE 40-YEAR OLD VIRGIN and BRIDESMAIDS,” which I can’t really conceptualize within that premise; but fuck it, it’s Fraction doing an Image book. Even though I’m not in love (and that’s saying it nicely) with Satellite Sam, this sounds like it’s more in keeping with Fraction’s bag of tricks and if nothing else, it should be a bit of sexy fun.

Check Out These Borderlands 2 "Minons"

I'm not super in love with the design, but they're still pretty damn cool. These "parody" designs of Borderlands 2 characters are available on Cyberscribe's Esty store. Check out the Borderlands characters below, but they have plenty of comic and anime inspired ones as well.

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Pretty Soon You'll Be Able To Wear A New Wolverine Hoodie Costume For Each Day of the Week

I'll admit that I liked Wolverine's X-Force costume even if I didn't understand the point of their team wearing silver and black. I mean every where they went they left piles of dead bodies so if the point was to be stealthy they failed. If the point was to not look like the X-Men because it was a different color scheme... they failed. Anyways, for $70 bucks you can look like a total ass-hat while shoving the walk or jogging down to the local 7-Eleven for some Sweet Balls.

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Trailer Time: Second Trailer for the Second Season of Freezing aka Freezing Vibration

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbi9y8qcXT8 Well this trailer definitely reveals more of the plot along with new characters. Its a strange formula that this show follows which is why I like it. I'm still just going to call it season 2 of Freezing in retaliation to messing with my Hulu queue.

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Comic Bastards Weekly Feature Update: 9/16 to 9/21

Well this recap is a bit late isn't it? Yeah sorry about that I took yesterday off from running the website seven days a week and forgot to get it posted earlier today. Before we kick off this week let's take a look at some of the original features from Comic Bastards!

My Pull List For 9/18/13 - Samantha Roehrig

Last week had a look at Samantha's pull list and I'll let you in on a secret... she reviewed them all! That's right if you take a look at her list you can then read an in-depth opinion about them on the site.

Comic Bastards Toolbox: Green Lantern (Re-rebirth)

Steve pulled out the toolbox this week and took a crack at Green Lantern. He offers a lot of insight on the problems that are currently facing 2814 in the New 52 and how he would run the Corps if given a chance so give it a read!

My Top Rack - Delilah Dirk

If you give me any chance to talk about Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant I will and did for my pick for last week's "Top Rack." Find out why Delilah is such a great character and why you should pick of the book from Tony Cliff and First Second Books.

Does Forever Evil: Arkham War Hold Anything New?

In this feature we took a look at what's waiting for Forever Evil: Arkham War and if really it's just DC's version of Batman: Arkham City. Give it a read and let us know what you think.

Comics: Where Do I Start? Forget The Superheroes

Adam is back with more advice for new readers and this time he has some reading recommendations that aren't superhero based. Check it out and feel free to add your own suggestions in the comments.

We had one group review this week which you can check out below:

Infinity #3

If you want to hear more opinions and some hilarious antics then give this week's podcast a listen while you're at it.

CBMFP - Episode 99: There's a Grandfather Clock in His Pants

Legit Sailor Mercury Cosplay

Now that is a stunning Sailor Mercury! The cosplayer is Danicosplay Stocking  and the photographer in case you can read it on all of the photos, was Arturo Vega.

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Husky Jackal Presents: Terminator the Second (Shakespeare + Terminator 2)

http://vimeo.com/74541958# Yes this is a thing that exists and is quite clever. Depending on how reasonable the movie download is... I might be buying it.

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Episode 99: There’s a Grandfather Clock in His Pants

Very slow news week, so with that we spend most of the episode covering COMIC BOOKS! This episode covers: 215’s Broken, Vampire Vixens of the Wehrmacht #1, DC's Black Hand #1, Lenore – Vol. 5 – Purple Nurples, Harbinger #16, Six Gun: Gorilla: Days of Vengeance, #2! Not only that, the magic of the CBMFP can now be found on Stitcher Radio for FREE!! It's great for your iOS and Android devices when you just got to have the show anytime and anywhere!!!!!

Do Want: Dengeki Bunko Fighting Climax

This upcoming Sega fighter looks cute as shit! I really want to play it, but I have no idea if it'll make it to the States. Here's some screen shots and characters that were revealed at the Tokyo Game Show along with some footage shown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEUDqW7TIww

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Watch 974 People Play Mario Bros. At One Time

They fucking couldn't find one more person? Do you know how annoying it was not to write 975? Do you?! It's going to bother me at least until you finish this video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTiJaWCaKas

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Trailer Time: Freezing Second Season

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ze2jvomZ5bw I'm not a big fan of the new trend in anime in which they give the second season a completely different title. I've noticed it's really only for shows that have a finite run and and as such makes it annoying to schedule in my Hulu queue. Yeah that's right... that's the only reason I find it annoying. Anyways this show wasn't amazing, but it was interesting. I'll give the second season a chance.

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