7/18 Comic Week In Review

BEFORE WATCHMEN: Silk Spectre #2 of 4

Script: Darwyn Cooke & Art: Amanda Conner

I could not love this character more unless she was real. Each page drips with beauty and sexiness. Laurie is absolutely gorgeous, smart, funny, witty, cool, and she kicks ass. She is quickly climbing up my list of favorite female comic characters. I love strong female characters and personalities and she is exactly that. The writing seems for fitting of a girl her age and for the times. As bright and happy this book is and starts off it also gets dark and a little rated R or M in this case. Gorgeous visuals with beautiful colors and superb writing make this one of the best books and one of the best of the Before Watchmen books out there.

Verdict: BUY

Nightwing #11

Writer: Higgins, Artist: Andres Guinaldo

New artist that almost looks the same but not quite. The art is good but not quite up to par to what we're use to. What I missed the most was seeing Dicks silhouette in action. The writing was consistent even if it's not as intense as it was during the Night of The Owls cross over event. That being said it was still a very solid and good book despite some less than impressive panels.

Verdict: BUY

Batwoman #11

Writing: JH Williams III & W Haden Blackman, Artist: Trevor McCarthy

This may be the end of a story arc but it sure doesn't feel like it even if there were a few resolutions. This title has been a lot of doom and gloom for me as far as story telling is concerned and we finally get some hope in this issue. There's quite a few great character moments in this issue. I was a little confused at first but by the end of the issue it was all very clear to me. The art is alluring and enticing with the the brilliant panel layouts and structure. My biggest issue with this title is that despite how consistently good each issue is I feel that this story is snailing along too slowly for me and therefore would be much more enjoyable in trade.

Verdict: BUY

Wonder Woman #11

Writer: Azzarello, Artist: Chiang

Chiang is back and it makes all the difference when wondering about picking this title up. The answer is yes and it's always yes when Chiang is the artist. This new take on Greek mythology  continues to be fresh, exciting, unique, and intriguing as the god fight amongst themselves for the throne is the missing Zeus making whatever kind of back rooms deals to succeed. This gets to be more of a problem in this issue for Diana when it involves her friends one in specific to the point they end up having to throw down with the sun and moon gods. We also find out that Wonder Woman is 23 so that jacked me up and gives me hope that I may actually have a chance. This title has been consistently great since issue one and that still holds true as long as Chiang is on art but the story telling has always been top notch. 

Verdict: BUY

Uncanny X-Men #15 AvX Tie-In

Writer: Gillen, Artist: Acuña

This title went from mediocre to one of the best x-books in just a few issues. The art is unique and surreal. The colors are strong, powerful bursts of brights offsetting the darks and grays. The story telling is superb in the sense that last issue they told you what's going to happen and in this issue they show you but it still surprises you and blows you away at the same time. I haven't rooted for this team in a long time but this issue did that for me. I can't wait to see what the next issue has in stores for us.

Verdict: BUY

Avengers vs X-Men Round 8

Script: BMB, Art: Adam Kubert

The story picks up exactly where it left off with Namor conducting a full frontal assault on Wakanda and the Avengers. We have a new artist on pencils being Kubert and he does a superb job. I had minor issues with a few panels that I felt were not essential to the story as well as detracted from it a little bit. Besides that minor tiff this was the only issue that I had with this issue. The art may be the best in the series yet as it did things I had yet to see in this event such as the unique panel lay out and an iconic weapon that popped out of the page. The story itself was just one giant battle against Namor. It's interesting to see how this is all playing out and what's happening next.

Verdict: BUY

Captain Marvel #1

Writer: Kelly Sue DeConnick, Artist: Dexter Soy

The story was really lacking, slow, and boring. I did not care for the dialogue or the characters. The art is a completely different story though that almost makes this worth buying alone. I've never heard of this artist before but his art is absolutely stunning in this. The colors, style, use of shading are what make this art so great. I have no interest in getting the next issue. They could have made this title in a smart and emotional way but they failed.

Verdict: SKIM

Wolverine #309

Writer: Ivan Brandon, Art: Rafael Albuquerque, Jason Latour

Great stand alone one-shot story with some of the best Wolverine art I've ever seen. This was a  random flashback issue about Logan going on another one of his many escapades when Elixir decides to join him. It takes place sometime after M day and after Elixir joined X-Force. You get to see multiple facets of Wolverine like the ladies man/lover, mentor, fighter, and of course killer. This issue literally has nothing to do with the last story arc but the art alone is worth it and the writing makes this one hell of a book.

Verdict: BUY

Daredevil #15

Writer: Waid, Artist: Samnee

Samnee still on art and I'm still loving it. This title continues to blow my mind every single issue with Waids stellar writing. I did not want this issue to end and I can't wait for the next one to come out. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time because it was so intense all the way through. The art was so simple yet intricate at the same time. I never thought I would be a big Daredevil fan as I always thought he was a joke being a blind man that can see with radar but I have been proved wrong because now he is one of my all time favorite heroes.

Verdict: BUY

CoTW: Daredevil #15

SoTW: Uncanny X-Men #15

PoTW: AvX Round 8

BnBoTW: Daredevil #15

Read More

7/11 Comic Week In Review

Avenging Spider-Man #9

Writer: Kelly Sue DeConnick, Art: Terry & Rachel Dodson

Peter Parker flies with Carol Danvers, the new Captain Marvel. It was really fun at first and the art was enjoyable. Then a girl who looks and dresses like Hope but isn't shows up and causes flight complications. Spidey and Captain Marvel suit up to handle this situation  only to make things worse. The art seemed to fluctuate in quality especially towards the ends in a certain large panel. This felt like a situation that was blown out of proportion and could have been handled with one issue but is being forced into two issues. It started off really good but ended sub-par on story and art.

Verdict: SKIM

Spider-Men #3 of 5

Writer: BMB, Art: Pichelli, Ponsor

Very good solid story with great colors and top notch art team. Miles and Peter team up and use their smarts against Mysterio. Peter starts to lose touch with reality in a sense which ends the issue with a very strong, powerful, emotional moment. So far this is easily hands down the best issue in the series yet and I can't wait to see the fall out of the last page.

Verdict: BUY

Wolverine & The X-Men #13 AvX Tie-In

Writer: Aaron, Artist: Bradshaw

Gladiator tries to destroy the inhabitants of the Phoenix. This issue featured Warbird as the main highlighted character. This was a total mind blower to me as it ties multiple characters pasts together in a very deep way. The art is the best I've seen from Bradshaw yet and though it's somewhat cartoony it still shows every harshness of the battle and more. This title just gets better with each issue even during this event. Most titles lost consistency and focus during events and this one hasn't for a second. If anything it has enhanced it.

Verdict: BUY

Avengers VERSUS X-Men #4 of 6

Daredevil vs Psylocke PoTW

Writer: Remender, Art: Peterson

Perfect match up as they are both agile hand-to-hand fighters. This is easily the best fight yet especially considering how it ends.

Thor vs Emma Frost

Writer/Art: Anderson

Epic battle of a god versus a cosmic entity infused mutant. Emma talks so much trash it's sick. Art gives you a mythic feel as if they are battling in Asgard. This book is easily the best in the series as far as match ups and art go. The art and dialogue are the best I've seen yet.

Verdict: BUY

The Crow #1

Writer: John Shirley, Artist: Kevin Colden

The art has a strong Japanese influence as does the story. This makes sense considering that's where it takes place. As a first issue there was a lot of build up and establishing of characters. This a new story and take on the Crow mythos. I'm interested to see where this goes and how it turns out.

Verdict: BUY

American Vampire: Lord of Nightmares #2 of 5

Writer: Scott Snyder, Artist: Dustin Nguyen

This issue was a let down for me. The whole issue was nothing but generic clichés. The art was impressively all over the place. There's so many different art styles in this. They are all so well done and somehow work together. Essentially this issue was backstory and exposition. These things are usually something that are in the first part of a story not the second and therefore really slowed things down. The pacing of this series is really bad so far.

Verdict: SKIM

Before Watchmen: Minutemen #2 of 6 CoTW

Writer/Artist: Darwyn Cooke

It gets real and dark. The glitz and glamour of The Minutemen has lost its luster and it's just the true, dark, gritty story. I didn't enjoy this issue as much as the last. Whereas the first issue was a great introduction this issue is a giant leap into the belly of the beast that is the true harshness of their story. The art is consistently great though this art style does seem a little too bright and lighthearted for how dark this issue gets.

Verdict: BUY

Batman & Robin #11

Writer: Tomasi, Art: Gleason, Gray, Nguyen, Champagne

Starts off nice and easy with a fun hook as the Robin challenge continues. Then some weirdos do something to get Batman's attention with the other story taking over. The art is really awesome in this one all the way through from beginning to end. This continues to be one of the best written Bat-books out there right now.

Verdict: BUY 

Batman #11

Writer: Snyder, Art: Capullo, Glapion

Wow, this issue took off from the get go and did not slow down or pull any punches until "The Epic Finale of The Court of Owls" was over. There was a nice touching moment between Dick and Bruce that really did it for me. Personally I think that this is a story arc that will go down in comic book history as one of the greatest Batman stories ever told. And as such there is still mystery as to whether or not the antagonist is still out there somewhere. The side story clarifies some things which was nice but the part was that it brought it full circle by having Alfred return this dark story back into the light as this title started.

Verdict: BUY

Swamp Thing #11 SoTW(pg.6)

Writer: Scott Snyder, Artist: Marco Rudy

Arcane arrives to retrieve Abigail and Alec is nowhere to be seen. A splash page of greens reminded me why I love this book and that I missed it. The colors and panel design absolutely blew me away with its genius and brilliance. Swamp Thing and Arcane finally fight it out leaving one of them mortally wounded and in retreat. This was one of the most satisfying reads and endings I have ever experienced. I can't wait for the next Animal Man and Swamp Thing issues.

Verdict: BUY

CoTW: Before Watchmen: Minutemen #2 - A genius mix of simple and complex color

SoTW: Swamp Thing #11 pg.6 - Panel layout, attention to detail, and colors blew me away

PoTW: Avengers VS X-Men #4 of 6 Daredevil vs Psylocke - Depth and proportion done right

BnBoTW: Swamp Thing #11 

Read More

Fourth of July Comic Week In Review

Earth 2 #3

Writer: James Robinson, Art: Nicola & Trevor Scott

I'm really liking how this is a completely different universe in so many ways. The story is slowly moving along but in a good way by taking time introducing each character. This issue was primarily about Green Lantern. I genuinely enjoy the art as its not trying to do anything unique but excels at what it does which is being some of the best looking art of the superhero genre. This may be better in trade but as of right now I'm enjoying each issue.

Verdict: BUY

Detective Comics #11

Writer: Tony S. Daniel, Art: Julio Ferreira, Eduardo Pansica

Daniel stepped up the writing in this issue especially for the Two-Face short. The art was a little off at time but very similar to Daniels in style and quality. I thoroughly appreciated the Two-Face side story this week. The art is a lot darker as is the story but the writing was a lot better this time around. It was a really good solid issue through and through.

Verdict: BUY

Animal Man #11

Writer: Lemire, Art: Alberto Ponticelli, Wayne Faucher

The art is slightly different but still consistently unique and disgustingly awesome. Buddy Baker is recreated, better, faster, stronger. You get to see an ally transform into a wicked beast. This was a truly hopeful issue and its been a long time coming because it's been doom and gloom almost the whole time. 

Verdict: BUY

Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #1 of 6

Writer: Len Wein, Artist: Jae Lee

The art is on a whole different level above the rest. The words that come to mind are beautiful and perfect. As talented as this artist is this book seemed a little too wordy even for me. What I mean by that is that the artist tells a lot of the story well enough with any of the speech bubbles. In all fairness though the excessive amount of words fits all too well with the personality and character of Adrian Veidt. This title deserves nothing less than excellence in both writing and art and they definitely meet those expectations if not exceed them.

Verdict: BUY

The Amazing Spider-Man #689

Writer: Slott, Art: Camuncoli, Janson, D'Armata

The art art seems to be getting worse or just uglier but even Spider-Man and Morbius don't look as good anymore. The writing for certain characters was pretty good but the characterization of Spider-Man was just awful. Since when does Spider-Man use guns, weapons, and prefer killing somebody over curing them, never. When a book like this comes out twice a month with this low quality of art and writing I'd rather not continue wasting my money but I will give it another chance considering how well the Lizard story is going.

Verdict: SKIM

Deadpool #57

Writer: Daniel Way, Artist: Shawn Crystal

I'm sincerely appreciating this dark, slightly realistic yet still cartoony art now that this series has taken a more deadly turn. The art does some really wacky and neat things and they pull it off pretty well. This issue was a lot of fun to read as you get to see Stella get his groove back. The truly does some unique things definitely worth seeing. I'm not sure if I'm going to continue picking this series up but this issue was one of the best and most fun Deadpool issues I've ever read.

Verdict: BUY

Uncanny X-Men #15 AvX Tie-In

Writer: Gillen, Artist: Acuña

Interesting, unique, water color style art. The artist does a splendid job on facial expressions, some of the best I've ever seen. Each panel is busting at the seams with extremely impressive colors and use of shading. This is the first part in a three issue story arc. The story telling has hit an all time high. Certain things are explained that needed explaining and the attack on Sinister begins.

Verdict: BUY

Avengers vs X-Men #7 of 12

Script: Fraction, Art: Coipel, Morales, Martin

A major player has joined the fold, Black Panther bitch slaps Stark, and the battle rages on. The art is consistently great as it is some of the best comic book art out there. The story is getting even more intense now that the odds have somewhat evened out. It seems that the Phoenix may be starting to corrupt the X-Men. 

Verdict: BUY

Wolverine #310

Writer: Jeph Loeb, Artist: Simone Bianchi

Stunning, mind blowing, spectacular art on every page and in every single panel. I expect nothing less than beauty and perfection with Bianchi on art and he does not disappoint. Jeph Loebs writing does not disappoint either with spot-on characterization and a solid story that makes perfect sense to the Wolverine title. The art alone does it for me and the great story is just icing on the proverbial cake.

Verdict: BUY

The Punisher #13

Writer: Greg Rucka, Artist: Mico Suayan

The art is different but works. The people are a little ugly. It's darker and more sketchy with less detail but still very well done. Sergeant Alves and Punisher team back up in this issue to infiltrate a little auction yacht party. Alves actually looks pretty damn sexy as she carries out what Castle is training her to do best. This was a very solid and intense issue that's part of a bigger story but is great all on its own.

Verdict: BUY

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #12

Writer: BMB, Art: David Marquez

The cover looks so effin hardcore and doesn't disappoint. The art is ridiculously stunning, and impressive with panels of strong, explosive, colors. Uncle Aaron continues to harass Miles. Spider-Man takes a stand against Prowler in an epic all out brawl as the cover indicates. Despite all the action this book heavily weighs in on the heart. This issue will affect me and its characters for a while. 

Verdict: BUY

CoTW: Earth 2 #3 - Extreme detail with mixture of green and orange fire did it for me

SoTW: Wolverine #310 - Iconic imagery with iconic characters in an iconic setting make this an ultimate epic

PoTW: Uncanny X-Men #15 - The scorn on Psylockes face is priceless towards the regal looking Magneto

BnBoTW: Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #12 - Calling this issue a game changer would be doing a disservice to this book as it does a lot more than that, it rocked me and the characters to their core.

Read More

DC Comics The NEW 52 Volume 1s

May

Animal Man: The Hunt
Batman: The Court of Owls
Catwoman: The Game
Green Arrow: The Midas Touch
Green Lantern: Sinestro
Justice League: Origin
Stormwatch: The Dark Side
Wonder Woman: Blood



June
Batman: Detective Comics: Faces of Death
Batwoman: Hydrology
Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E.: War of The Monsters
Legion of Super-Heroes: Hostile World
Mister Terrific: Mind Games
Red Lanterns: Blood & Rage
Static Shock: Supercharged




July
Batgirl: The Darkest Reflection
Batwing: The Lost Kingdom
Batman & Robin: Born to Kill
Demon Knights: Seven Against the Dark
Grifter: Most Wanted
Men of War: Uneasy Company
Suicide Squad: Kicked in the Teeth




These are all the graphic novels or trades as they are also known that have been released thus far. Now is a perfect time to get caught up on or get into these titles. We suggest you purchase them from Twin Suns(6301 Riverside Plaza), Kaboom Test Labs Westside(10250 Cottonwood Park Rd), our home away from home, or the new Kaboom Eastside(1510 Wyoming Blvd NE).

Read More

6/27 Comic Week In Review

American Vampire #28

Writer: Scott Snyder, Artist: Rafael Albuquerque

It feels so good to have Rafael back on art as he is the perfect artist for this title. This story is utterly killer both literally and figuratively with Snyder's brilliant writing. Two characters from the past meet up again on a path for revenge in this issue. I'm very excited to see how this all plays out.

Verdict: BUY

The Incredible Hulk #10

Writer: Jason Aaron, Artist: Tom Raney

Art is slowly getting better but not anywhere near as good as Portacio. The story was also better but still pretty out there without any further explanation as to what Banner is up to. If the art and writing don't improve this will unquestionably be a drop for me. 

Verdict: SKIM

Spider-Men #2 of 5

Writer: BMB, Artist: Sara Pichelli

Mysterio has stepped up his shenanigans in this story. The Spider-Men meet for the first time and hilarity ensues as they kind of fight it out. Peter meets the "Ultimate" Nick Fury and they get everything sorted out. The art is so realistic with great use of light, color, depth, shading, and texture. The writing is solid and makes sense but you can tell that this is just one piece of a bigger story.

Verdict: BUY

Amazing Spider-Man #688

Writer: Dan Slott, Art: Camuncoli, Janson, D' Armata

The Spider-Man in this issue is one of the coolest looking I have ever seen but the people, especially Peter Parker, looked awful. The story was pretty solid as it was Spidey and one of his classic adversaries teaming up to take down the Lizard. We also get to see the consequences of Ends of The Earth as well as something that this title has been missing for a long time, Peters personal life. 

Verdict: BUY

Wolverine & The X-Men #12

Writer: Jason Aaron, Artist: Chris Bachalo

I don't usually care for this artist but he did an absolutely stellar job on this issue. This a hardcore AvX tie-in through-in-through. Rachel Grey was the highlight and star of this book as she showed off her sheer, raw power. This title is still about the characters and personalities of the staff and students of The Jean Grey School despite being an issue of all to battle ensuing. 

Verdict: BUY

Batman Incorporated #2

Writer: Grant Morrison, Chris Burnham

The art is so much better in this issue than the last that I actually thought it was Frank Quietly. Essentially this issue was about Talia Al Ghul, her upbringing, relationship with her father, her history with Bruce, and her plans for the future. Talia was a stunning, strong, and independent woman. I thoroughly enjoyed this issue as it was nice to get caught up on some of the Al Ghul family history. I will definitely consider picking up this series after this issue.

Verdict: BUY

The Flash #10

Writing: Manapul & Buccellato, Art: Marcus To & Ray McCarthy

I didn't even notice that it was a different artist until someone pointed it out to me. That being said it is barely noticeable and consistent with the spectacular art from pervious issues. This issue starts off a little confusing but quickly gets you into known territory wasting no time jumping right into the action. The Flash is in central America speaking Spanglish and trying to save a small town from the Weather Wizard and find Patty Spivot. There were some genuinely impressive 2 page spreads and panels. The story was very enjoyable as it was a fully story arc showing that even the villain can be played and manipulated.

Verdict: BUY

Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #1 of 4

Writer: J Michael Straczynski, Art: Andy & Joe Kubert

I know I'm starting to sound like a broken record but I must say that the art is perfect for the time period and this character. The pencils and inks are astonishing with extreme attention to detail. Nite Owl was rife with splendid panels and spreads.This was such a satisfying, enjoyable read. This issue could have easily been a stand alone issue and that would have been fulfilling enough for me. 

Verdict: BUY

Justice League #10

Writer: Geoff Johns, Art: Jim Lee, Scott Williams, Mark Irwin, Jonathan Glapion

It is revealed that someone is taking out all of the Justice Leagues enemies. This certain someone makes their move as shown on the cover. The writing is improving and the art is classic Jim Lee awesomeness. I had nothing to complain about in this issue. What I liked most about this issue was the SHAZAM! side story. SHAZAM! is ripe with cool, smooth, realistic art by Gary Frank and strong character writing by Geoff Johns.

Verdict: BUY

Aquaman #10

Writer: Geoff Johns, Art: Ivan Reis, Joe Prado, Andy Lanning

The artwork does almost all of the storytelling imposingly well. The EPIC cover says everything you need know about this issue. This was an easy, quick, very enjoyable, action packed read. I was disappointed when I finished reading this issue. Not in a bad way but because it ended so quickly and I didn't want it to end at all. It was great to see how the "Blood Feud" began and exists. The talent of the artist is immeasurable as everything looks so spectacularly awesome and hardcore especially Aquaman.

Verdict: BUY

CoTW: American Vampire #28

SoTW: BW: Nite Owl #1 of 4

PoTW: BW: Nite Owl #1 of 4

BnBoTW: Aquaman #10

Read More

The Amazing Spider-Man(Spoiler Free) Review

First of all you need to know that this is a reboot, not a prequel, though it kind of feels like it could be, and definitely not a continuation. Also know that Marc Webb is trying to go for a different somewhat more realistic retelling of Peter Parker's origin while trying not to copy what Sam Raimi did with the first Spider-Man movie. As a fanboy you may cringe for the things they did differently and be incited with glee for the things that kept close to the comics. The cast was absolutely stellar in each of their respective roles. The thing I was most worried about was the graphics but ended up genuinely impressed.

As a hardcore Peter Parker/Spider-Man fan there were a few things that irked me but at the same time made more sense. I also feel like the things they changed the most were mainly because they didn't want it to be the same as the other Spider-Man. These things were primarily about the origin story. Despite the minor tiffs that I had with these lesser changes I absolutely loved and prefer this Peter Parker, Spider-Man, story, characters, and cast.

The cast was a big part of what made Amazing Spider-Man a step above the rest. Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield had such a perfectly intense chemistry as Gwen and Peter that made Toby Maguire and Kirsten Dunst look like amateurs. Andrew Garfield did a spot on job with Spidey's quips, as well as Peters awkwardness, and  intellect. The rest of the cast, Sally Fields, Martin Sheen, Dennis Leary, did such a spectacular job that enveloped you into the story and made you genuinely care. Rhys Ifans also put on a solid performance.

I'm glad that when Dr. Curt Connors transformed into the Lizard that he wasn't just a blundering, unintelligent, poorly designed monster. You could see actually Rhys Ifans' face in the Lizard. It was easy to understand the scientist within the monster through speech and motive. They were separate and one in the same as his motivations were understandable as both. The CGI looked incredibly well done especially of the Lizard and throughout the film. Every single action sequence felt so natural and fitting of Spider-Man.

A lot of people may feel like Amazing Spider-Man was very similar to the other Spider-Man movie which it obviously was because they both told the origin story. Marc Webb's retelling of this tale was far more realistic and closer to the actual source material. Everything in this film was better especially the cast with the Emma Stone/Andrew Garfield chemistry being the best of it. The CGI was overly impressive particularly The Lizard. It was also the best 3D movie I’ve seen this year. Did we need another Spider-Man origin story? No, we didn't, but it couldn't have been done any better. I would definitely recommend this film as a BUY as I will be seeing it multiple times in theaters and purchasing it on Blu-Ray when it comes out.

Read More

6/20 Comic Week In Review

Wonder Woman #10

Writer: Brian Azzarello, Artist: Tony Akins

The art is improving but still not up to par and definitely nowhere near as good as Chiang. The story was interesting, kept my attention, and wasn’t too wordy at all. It was actually a pretty short and quick, easy read. I surprisingly enjoyed this issue despite the improved sub-par art. I really want this book to be as good as when Cliff Chiang was the artist but it won't be until he comes back.

Verdict: SKIM

Avenging Spider-Man #8

Writers: Ty Templeton with Dan Slott, Art: Clark, Parsons, Quintana

This is the worst looking art I've seen on this title. That being said the art is mediocre but I did like the way Doctor Strange and Doom were drawn. The story was a cheesy flashback memory of Spideys about Silver Sable. The story was suppose to create an emotional stir by proving that she wasn't just a mercenary but it didn't do it for me.

Verdict: PASS

Secret Avengers #28 AvX Tie-in

Writer: Rick Remender, Artist: Renato Guedes

I absolutely love this artist and have been enjoying this side story thus far. I was led to believe that due to all of the Ms. Marvel/Captain Marvel advertisements that by the end of this story arc that Ms. Marvel would at least begin to be inspired to become Captain Marvel or something. That was not at all the case. This story arc also started with Marvel bringing a long time dead hero just to kill him by the end of it. The story ended up being both a predictable let down and an enormous disappointment. This could have been a great side story but failed to deliver. Amazing art doesn't make up for a sub-par story. The story arc overall is a PASS.

Verdict: SKIM

Avengers Academy #32 AvX Tie-in

Writer: Christos Gage, Art: Green, Huet, Sotomayor

Great writing with a lot of heart and personality. The art looks like straight up crap for everything except non-organics. The females look like cheap hookers and males look like meth junkies. The art in this title has never lived up to the writing which is exactly why I don't pick this book up in issues. I only picked this one up because its an AvX tie-in.

Verdict: SKIM

Uncanny X-Men #14 AvX Tie -in

Writer: Kieron Gillen, Artist: Dustin Weaver

The art is spectacular, intricate, detailed. Sinister is a sick, effed up individual. AvX tie-in I think not, good story I think so. It felt like an industrialized 19th century London period piece. Reminds me of The Matrix but with a lot more Sinister. All in all nothing really happened except that Sinister revealed his sinister plan considering the Phoenix Five. The stellar art was the true star of the show here.

Verdict: BUY

Avengers vs X-Men Round 6

Script: Jonathan Hickman, Pencils: Oliver Coipel

Finally got a good artist on this book and it only took six issues. The things I didn't care for was the way Namor and Cap looked. Everybody and everything else looks absolutely and spectacularly awesome. It seems the tables have turned and perhaps the playing field as well. The story reached a somewhat awkward point in the middle but started with a surprise and ended with a stunning reveal.

Verdict: BUY

Avengers vs X-Men: Infinite #2

The new age of digital comics is upon us. It's a combination of digital and motion comics. This download is from the perspective of one of the Phoenix Five, Cyclops. It was great to see what's going on inside Scott Summers' head right now. This comic really brought it home for me especially with everything that has been going on with Scott and the X-Men. I've never cared for Cyclops but I have always respected him because of this not only do I care for him but I pity him. The art is clean, slick, and smooth. If you buy AvX Round 6 you get this as a free digital download along with the AvX digital issue or you can buy it separately for .99 online.

Verdict: BUY

Batwoman #10

Writers: JH Williams & W Haden Blackman, Artist: Trevor McCarthy

I am officially tired of this story being dragged out for so long despite how good this issue is. I'd much rather prefer this title in trade. Turns out Sune is a crazy b, Katie is still in the hospital, and Killer Croc becomes more than he ever was. This book still does a lot of jumping around so pay attention or you're likely to get confused pretty easily. This title continues to have some of the best art with genius panel lay outs and structuring.

Verdict: BUY

Nightwing #10

Writer: Higgins, Art: Barrows&Borges, Ferreira&José

The beginning of a story arc with as much or more promise than the first. The art is so consistently impressive that you almost forget how great it is until you get to see Dick in motion. You also get to see Dick using gadgets, doing some detective work, his acrobatic skills, and a peak into his sweet set up. Dick has a plan to make Gotham a brighter, happier place and it's neat how it ties into the first story arc. The cover is a little over dramatic as it doesn't come to fruition but it might next issue. I'm excited to see what Dick has in store for us.

Verdict: BUY

Before Watchmen: Comedian #1 of 6

Writer: Brian Azzarello, Artist: JG Jones

The art isn't ugly by any means but the people are and the story is about those ugly people. I thoroughly enjoy how this is integrated into real historical events and figures. It makes it so much more real and makes it hit close to home. The details, lines, tints, and textures make this look all the more realistic. I can't wait to pick up The Curse of The Crimson Corsair in trade as its just getting better and better.

Verdict: BUY

Daredevil #14

Writer: Waid, Artist: Samnee

Samnee is almost my favorite DD artist only second to Paolo Rivera. I was very cautious about Samnee drawing DD but I was pleasantly surprised and continue to be. The last issue was a total mind effer. Waid continues to play it smart and throw curve balls through out this book and keeps you on your toes. I have yet to be bored for even one second while reading this series. I can't wait to see what happens next issue.

Verdict: BUY

Winter Soldier #7

Writer: Brubaker, Art: Lark, Thies, Gaudiano, Breitweiser

Easy, clean transition in art from Guice to Lark. This suspenseful, edge of the seat spy thriller has hit its stride. There's tracking leads, tech, murder, high speed chase, action, explosions, and set ups. This book has everything that you want in a title: a likable BA character with a dark past looking for redemption, a strong, sexy, sultry leading female character, gadgets, tech, gear all in a action packed suspenseful, smart, spy thriller.

Verdict: BUY

The Punisher #12

Writer: Greg Rucka, Artist: Marco Checchetto

The art looks great, the characters are all likable in one way or another, the fighting is done well, and The Punisher is intense as hell. The coloring and texturing makes for a brilliantly crafted story. In this issue you get a brief peek into The Punishers psyche. This was a quick, intense, and enjoyable read as the art did most of the storytelling.

Verdict: BUY

CoTW: Nightwing #10

SoTW: Nightwing #10

PoTW: The Punisher #12

BnBoTW: The Punisher #12

Read More