"Hope I'm a fast healer, fast as hell..."
Skipping last week entirely. If you must know, the ratings were as follows: [**3/4]. [***1/2], [***3/4], [***1/2], [***3/4], [***1/2], [dropped], [***1/2], and [***1/2].
Avengers #24: Those three panels where Norman Osborn goes from Hulked out and insanely powerful with a dominant grin to beginning to fall apart and thinking "Oh, no," to falling apart... that's this entire story. And it's not over yet (New Avengers #24 is two weeks away!). There is something refreshing about Bendis and Marvel not even pretending like the good guys weren't going to win. It's not really a spoiler if you know it's coming. Also, the Avengers beat Osborn by bad touching him. REMEMBER THAT ALWAYS. [***1/2]
Avengers Assemble #1: Did you know that Bryan Hitch gets a credit for designing Hawkeye's costume? I'm not kidding. Olivier Coipel is most likely wishing he'd done a better job with his contract when redesigning Thor... I genuinely want to see every Luke Cage comic from now on feature a "Luke Cage's personality created by Brian Michael Bendis." Soon, credits pages will become long lists of acknowleding everyone's contribution to everything. Isn't that what we all want? Just a little recognition. Of course it is. I did enjoy Hawkeye trying to get Black Widow to make him look good at his funeral. That seems like something Clint Barton would think about. [**3/4]
Batwoman #7: Oh ye gods... who will defend the art in this comic? Because I'm done with you if you do. I wasn't really on board with Amy Reeder on this book the same way I wouldn't be on board with anyone taking over from JH Williams besides the NEXT best artist in comics, but... who thought Rob Hunter on inks would be a good idea? Who thought that his inking would help overcome the giant void of talent left behind by Williams? It's like everyone sat down, decided that following Williams was hopeless, so why not go in the exact opposite direction... you know, ugly shit. I've seen Reeder's art look leagues better than this. This comic was barely readable. I know, I know, one shouldn't just lay into an inker like this, especially when one is as ignorant about art as I am, but when every single thing I've seen his brush/pen/random twig touch has made genuinely talented artists look like rank amateurs... well, fuck, prove me wrong. [One big metaphor for the 'Nu52']
Captian America #9: This actually reminded me of comics I read as a kid. I don't know if that's good or not. [I turned ten in 1993, so take from that what you will...]
Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE #7: Another comic where the inker had a dramatic effect on the art -- and again in a way that was less than pleasing to me. I'm sure there are people who prefer the cleaner look of Walden Wong's inks on Alberto Ponticelli's pencils. Those people are wrong. Or friends of Wong's. Probably. (Even Wong couldn't hide the crazy Frankenstein on page three as he kicks in a door and proclaims that he hates technology.) What's kind of funny is how this issue is an exercise in every threat that was built up last issue being revealed as nothing worth sweating. I guess once you kill an entire monster planet in the first arc, creating credible threats is a tough job. Good luck, Matt Kindt. [***]
Haunt #22: Sorry all, but that cover is cooler than the entire comic. And I liked the comic. But, that cover... [***** cover, ***3/4 comic]
Journey into Mystery #635: Sometimes, you negotiate with terrorists, I guess. [***1/2]
The Unwritten #35: This issue delivered one thing that I hope for: I don't know where this comic goes now. It also did something surprising: it reminded me how much I dislike the protagonist. Or maybe it's Tommy Taylor I don't like... I don't know. Not quite the 'knock you on your ass and reveal all' issue I was hoping for. But, it shed some light on things and, like I said, has me wondering what happens next. [***3/4]
Wolverine and the X-Men #7: When did Iceman become such a ladies' man? Has Jason Aaron been secretly obsessed with Iceman all of these years and is finally getting the chance to make him seem awesome? If so... godspeed good sir. Wait -- did they say they were blowing up her uterus? There's a GOP joke in there somewhere... [***1/2]
Later
Showing posts with label jh williams iii. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jh williams iii. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Thursday, February 09, 2012
Sketch Reviews (February 9 2012)
Fuck it...
Some Brief Thoughts on Before Watchmen (which aren't meant to be nuanced or deep, but quick summations of where I'm coming from after reading 28,000 arguments for why this is the worst, most evil thing to happen in comics since forever... but, please, present those arguments again in the comments and see how much I care)
I honestly have no problems with Before Watchmen. None. I don't see the moral problem. I don't see scabs or traitors or anything wrong. It's not because I'm cynical or apathetic or unsympathetic... it's because Alan Moore signed a contract. Did something unexpected happen? Yeah. Watchmen stayed in print. You know what that makes DC? Lucky. You know what that makes Moore? Wrong. It's not a moral issue, it's a matter of someone signing a bad deal and it biting them in the ass. Let's not all pretend like DC stole anything from the poor victim Alan Moore. Especially if you've gotten a copy of Watchmen after its initial print run, you hypocritical fucks. You kept the book in print.
There's much more to it, of course. I guess it comes down to how much you expected DC to rework a deal that wound up benefitting them greatly. Or how much you blame them for exploiting a deal that benefitted them greatly.
One thing I keep wondering about is what exactly people are fighting over. I mean, literally, what is there about Watchmen and its characters that's worth fighting over? What made Watchmen so special, such a great work? Was it the Charlton analogues? (And, make no mistake, 'analogue' is just another word for 'rip-off.' Don't pretend like it's not. Don't pretend like these characters are everso original and sprang fully formed from the mind of Moore. They're different enough, but come on... if you're going to start arguing bullshit technicalities to bolster that side of your argument, then I'll have to direct you back to the 'Moore signed the contract' part of what happened...) If it was just the characters, then, yeah, I guess it's all wrong. I was always under the impression that Watchmen was more than a bunch of analogues... more than anything in the plot... it was style, technique, and innovation -- a bunch of things that Moore doesn't (and can never) own. DC is publishing a bunch of books featuring analogues of characters they already own... it's like they own the empty shell that looks like a crab and are trying to make everyone think it's a crab. All I see are a bunch of people arguing over an empty shell.
And, just to add one more point to make people hate me: I did laugh at Moore's arguments against the idea of Watchmen prequels considering he's been pretty close to doing more work with the characters and the world in the past. I understand that the real argument is over whether or not it should be his say no matter what he thought in the past (and people can change their mind), but it really came off as a convenient shift in position. It's not so much that Watchmen doesn't need (or shouldn't have) prequels, it's fuck DC for doing them without him. Which, fair enough. I get his perspective... Everyone else? Keep arguing over your empty shell that he gave away willingly and you helped keep away from him. Me, I'm going to read (and hopefully enjoy) some comics by creators I think are talented.
(Also, go buy Minutes to Midnight: Twelve Essays on Watchmen featuring "The Smartest Man in the Morgue," an essay where I apply Raymond Chandler's "Twelve Notes on the Mystery Story" to Watchmen!)
Now, onto brief words on this week's comics (like anyone will care now...):
Batwoman #6: What do you do with a comic you were buying for the art when the artist isn't drawing it anymore? I like Amy Reeder's art... or, I have in the past. Here, it's got the added 'benefit' of two inkers who I'm not a fan of (Rob Hunter particularly has been an inker whose work I've loathed since seeing the job he did on Jim Starlin's pencils). The mediocre writing was a lot easier to stomach when it had JH Williams and Dave Stewart dressing up into something amazing. Somehow, the 'new 52' has started falling apart on me lately... This may have to be a book I buy every other arc. [**]
Captain America #8: Conceptually, an issue that didn't add much to the first two parts of this story. There are a couple of plot points worth seeing happen, but, for the most part, it's more of Cap dealing with his problem. I did really like the way he overcompensates and how that winds up biting him in the ass. And Alan Davis art! That opening fight scene is absolutely gorgeous. [***1/4]
Haunt #21: When I wondered a few weeks back if this issue had come out, I know now that it had not. Always nice when Diamond's own list is wrong, right? Anyway... Bickering and fighting dudes on motorcycles while a guy reads from his evil Bible? Joe Casey's brain is a fun place -- made even better by Nathan Fox's art. [****]
Journey into Mystery #634: Richard Elson's art looks different in this issue. Slicker, faker... maybe the colouring changed? I don't like it as much. Otherwise, an entertaining issue. The banter between Loki and Leah was funny -- and the way that Loki figured out Nightmare was trying to trick him was clever. [***1/2]
Secret Avengers #22: I really like Gabriel Hardman's art and I'm digging on Rick Remender's take on Captain Britain. The rest? Not as much. This story here didn't keep my interest at all. The villains come off as tedious -- there's nothing there for me to hate and nothing there for me to like... they just are. Unsure if I'll give this another issue or not. [**1/2]
The Unwritten #34: Goddamn, that's a great issue! The reversal of Tom's fortunes was genuinely surprising and the way he took down the members of the Cabal was shocking in its execution -- mostly because this was more organised and capable than we've seen these characters act yet. It's the perfect time for them to get their act together, of course. And, the cliffhanger has me genuinely excited to see what happens next. Tom and Pullman. Goddamn. [****]
Wolverin and the X-Men #5: A charming comic if there ever was one. There's a bit more plot to this issue than the fourth, but the things I liked best about last issue continue: namely, wonderful little character bits. Pieces of dialogue that just pop. Jason Aaron has zoned in on these characters to such an extent that I don't care about the plot. There doesn't need to be a plot as far as I'm concerned. I could read a comic about lunch in the cafeteria every month, I think, and find it wildly entertaining. Hell, the thing I liked least about this issue was the plot. A rare thing in comics. Nick Bradshaw's art is a bit hit or miss for me: it depends on the characters and, sometimes, the individual panel. His style tends to make characters look like children, which I find annoying -- at least for the adult characters in the book. There needs to be a better distinction between the students and teachers visually, I think. But, he absolutely nails stuff like Kid Gladiator sulking and Toad's surly annoyance. [****1/4]
Wolverine and the X-Men: Alpha & Omega #2: Poor Quentin... girls aren't impressed by the way he's taken down Wolverine and made him run through his Construct. That's a shame. [***3/4]
Later
Some Brief Thoughts on Before Watchmen (which aren't meant to be nuanced or deep, but quick summations of where I'm coming from after reading 28,000 arguments for why this is the worst, most evil thing to happen in comics since forever... but, please, present those arguments again in the comments and see how much I care)
I honestly have no problems with Before Watchmen. None. I don't see the moral problem. I don't see scabs or traitors or anything wrong. It's not because I'm cynical or apathetic or unsympathetic... it's because Alan Moore signed a contract. Did something unexpected happen? Yeah. Watchmen stayed in print. You know what that makes DC? Lucky. You know what that makes Moore? Wrong. It's not a moral issue, it's a matter of someone signing a bad deal and it biting them in the ass. Let's not all pretend like DC stole anything from the poor victim Alan Moore. Especially if you've gotten a copy of Watchmen after its initial print run, you hypocritical fucks. You kept the book in print.
There's much more to it, of course. I guess it comes down to how much you expected DC to rework a deal that wound up benefitting them greatly. Or how much you blame them for exploiting a deal that benefitted them greatly.
One thing I keep wondering about is what exactly people are fighting over. I mean, literally, what is there about Watchmen and its characters that's worth fighting over? What made Watchmen so special, such a great work? Was it the Charlton analogues? (And, make no mistake, 'analogue' is just another word for 'rip-off.' Don't pretend like it's not. Don't pretend like these characters are everso original and sprang fully formed from the mind of Moore. They're different enough, but come on... if you're going to start arguing bullshit technicalities to bolster that side of your argument, then I'll have to direct you back to the 'Moore signed the contract' part of what happened...) If it was just the characters, then, yeah, I guess it's all wrong. I was always under the impression that Watchmen was more than a bunch of analogues... more than anything in the plot... it was style, technique, and innovation -- a bunch of things that Moore doesn't (and can never) own. DC is publishing a bunch of books featuring analogues of characters they already own... it's like they own the empty shell that looks like a crab and are trying to make everyone think it's a crab. All I see are a bunch of people arguing over an empty shell.
And, just to add one more point to make people hate me: I did laugh at Moore's arguments against the idea of Watchmen prequels considering he's been pretty close to doing more work with the characters and the world in the past. I understand that the real argument is over whether or not it should be his say no matter what he thought in the past (and people can change their mind), but it really came off as a convenient shift in position. It's not so much that Watchmen doesn't need (or shouldn't have) prequels, it's fuck DC for doing them without him. Which, fair enough. I get his perspective... Everyone else? Keep arguing over your empty shell that he gave away willingly and you helped keep away from him. Me, I'm going to read (and hopefully enjoy) some comics by creators I think are talented.
(Also, go buy Minutes to Midnight: Twelve Essays on Watchmen featuring "The Smartest Man in the Morgue," an essay where I apply Raymond Chandler's "Twelve Notes on the Mystery Story" to Watchmen!)
Now, onto brief words on this week's comics (like anyone will care now...):
Batwoman #6: What do you do with a comic you were buying for the art when the artist isn't drawing it anymore? I like Amy Reeder's art... or, I have in the past. Here, it's got the added 'benefit' of two inkers who I'm not a fan of (Rob Hunter particularly has been an inker whose work I've loathed since seeing the job he did on Jim Starlin's pencils). The mediocre writing was a lot easier to stomach when it had JH Williams and Dave Stewart dressing up into something amazing. Somehow, the 'new 52' has started falling apart on me lately... This may have to be a book I buy every other arc. [**]
Captain America #8: Conceptually, an issue that didn't add much to the first two parts of this story. There are a couple of plot points worth seeing happen, but, for the most part, it's more of Cap dealing with his problem. I did really like the way he overcompensates and how that winds up biting him in the ass. And Alan Davis art! That opening fight scene is absolutely gorgeous. [***1/4]
Haunt #21: When I wondered a few weeks back if this issue had come out, I know now that it had not. Always nice when Diamond's own list is wrong, right? Anyway... Bickering and fighting dudes on motorcycles while a guy reads from his evil Bible? Joe Casey's brain is a fun place -- made even better by Nathan Fox's art. [****]
Journey into Mystery #634: Richard Elson's art looks different in this issue. Slicker, faker... maybe the colouring changed? I don't like it as much. Otherwise, an entertaining issue. The banter between Loki and Leah was funny -- and the way that Loki figured out Nightmare was trying to trick him was clever. [***1/2]
Secret Avengers #22: I really like Gabriel Hardman's art and I'm digging on Rick Remender's take on Captain Britain. The rest? Not as much. This story here didn't keep my interest at all. The villains come off as tedious -- there's nothing there for me to hate and nothing there for me to like... they just are. Unsure if I'll give this another issue or not. [**1/2]
The Unwritten #34: Goddamn, that's a great issue! The reversal of Tom's fortunes was genuinely surprising and the way he took down the members of the Cabal was shocking in its execution -- mostly because this was more organised and capable than we've seen these characters act yet. It's the perfect time for them to get their act together, of course. And, the cliffhanger has me genuinely excited to see what happens next. Tom and Pullman. Goddamn. [****]
Wolverin and the X-Men #5: A charming comic if there ever was one. There's a bit more plot to this issue than the fourth, but the things I liked best about last issue continue: namely, wonderful little character bits. Pieces of dialogue that just pop. Jason Aaron has zoned in on these characters to such an extent that I don't care about the plot. There doesn't need to be a plot as far as I'm concerned. I could read a comic about lunch in the cafeteria every month, I think, and find it wildly entertaining. Hell, the thing I liked least about this issue was the plot. A rare thing in comics. Nick Bradshaw's art is a bit hit or miss for me: it depends on the characters and, sometimes, the individual panel. His style tends to make characters look like children, which I find annoying -- at least for the adult characters in the book. There needs to be a better distinction between the students and teachers visually, I think. But, he absolutely nails stuff like Kid Gladiator sulking and Toad's surly annoyance. [****1/4]
Wolverine and the X-Men: Alpha & Omega #2: Poor Quentin... girls aren't impressed by the way he's taken down Wolverine and made him run through his Construct. That's a shame. [***3/4]
Later
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Sketch Reviews (January 12 2012)
Batwoman #5: Interesting turn of events -- the art still outpaces the writing to a large degree, which makes me a little worried about what happens come next issue. From what I've seen, Amy Reeder is a good artist, but she's following an amazing one that's been the sole reason to buy this comic. There always feels like there's something missing in each issue. Not like they've left out stuff you don't need or can figure out... like there's something essential missing. I don't know what it is, though. I'm useless, I guess. [****]
Captain America #7: Well, shit, Steve Rogers, if you didn't get on board with torture, maybe you wouldn't be doubting yourself so much. Also, stop hating mutants and just hire a telepath to shut those riots down. Tactical genius my ass. Ooooh, Alan Davis art! [***1/2]
Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE #5: The other side of OMAC #5 and it blends scenes we saw there with no information that fleshes them out. A really well done crossover between the two books. Really interesting to see someone other than Giffen draw OMAC as well. I liked Ponticelli's interpretation. [****]
Journey into Mystery #633: I love how those fear beings are a subtle wink at the Endless. Each one is described with one of the names of the Endless -- or is so obviously one of them. Funny little joke. Also, Loki ain't no snitch. [***3/4]
Justice League Dark #4: My shop finally got the copies they were shorted on a couple of weeks back... I'm not entirely sold on this series yet. The slow gathering of the characters isn't my ideal structure. However, this issue saw more progress in that department and actually ramped up the plot a bit. [***1/4]
New Avengers #20: The two-page splash where the New Avengers and New Dark Avengers rush at one another is a fun video game page. The concept is a little dumb, sure, but the execution is inventive enough, especially now that there are only a few one-to-one matches on the two teams. What's going on with Jessica, though? I can't see how she would be the mole in the group... who knows though. With two Avengers teams, it's nice to see that Bendis is having Osborn take two different approaches to each one. [***1/2]
Punishermax #21: Someone needs to do a comparison between this and Scalped #55, which also came out this week. Two big fight scenes, two brutal-as-fuck fight scenes, and both approached very differently by two different artists. Maybe I will if I find the time -- and, as much I would like to, CBR isn't set up with reviews to do a joint review like that (and that's totally understandable since why should they be ready to have someone review two comics from two different publishers at the same time because they both happen to have fights scenes written by the same writer?). The mixture of memories was masterful, especially when it got to the present in a quick succession. I have no idea what's coming in issue 22 and I can't wait. [****1/2]
The Unwritten #33: That is one hell of an ending -- and damn clever. I loved the different stories. Great storyarc. [****]
Wolverine and the X-Men #4: A really good 'breather' issue after the first story. Nice to take some time and get a sense of the school some more. Hell, I'd be happy if that's all this book did. But, I also miss The Intimates... [****]
Later
Captain America #7: Well, shit, Steve Rogers, if you didn't get on board with torture, maybe you wouldn't be doubting yourself so much. Also, stop hating mutants and just hire a telepath to shut those riots down. Tactical genius my ass. Ooooh, Alan Davis art! [***1/2]
Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE #5: The other side of OMAC #5 and it blends scenes we saw there with no information that fleshes them out. A really well done crossover between the two books. Really interesting to see someone other than Giffen draw OMAC as well. I liked Ponticelli's interpretation. [****]
Journey into Mystery #633: I love how those fear beings are a subtle wink at the Endless. Each one is described with one of the names of the Endless -- or is so obviously one of them. Funny little joke. Also, Loki ain't no snitch. [***3/4]
Justice League Dark #4: My shop finally got the copies they were shorted on a couple of weeks back... I'm not entirely sold on this series yet. The slow gathering of the characters isn't my ideal structure. However, this issue saw more progress in that department and actually ramped up the plot a bit. [***1/4]
New Avengers #20: The two-page splash where the New Avengers and New Dark Avengers rush at one another is a fun video game page. The concept is a little dumb, sure, but the execution is inventive enough, especially now that there are only a few one-to-one matches on the two teams. What's going on with Jessica, though? I can't see how she would be the mole in the group... who knows though. With two Avengers teams, it's nice to see that Bendis is having Osborn take two different approaches to each one. [***1/2]
Punishermax #21: Someone needs to do a comparison between this and Scalped #55, which also came out this week. Two big fight scenes, two brutal-as-fuck fight scenes, and both approached very differently by two different artists. Maybe I will if I find the time -- and, as much I would like to, CBR isn't set up with reviews to do a joint review like that (and that's totally understandable since why should they be ready to have someone review two comics from two different publishers at the same time because they both happen to have fights scenes written by the same writer?). The mixture of memories was masterful, especially when it got to the present in a quick succession. I have no idea what's coming in issue 22 and I can't wait. [****1/2]
The Unwritten #33: That is one hell of an ending -- and damn clever. I loved the different stories. Great storyarc. [****]
Wolverine and the X-Men #4: A really good 'breather' issue after the first story. Nice to take some time and get a sense of the school some more. Hell, I'd be happy if that's all this book did. But, I also miss The Intimates... [****]
Later
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Sketch Reviews (December 15 2011)
Just pushing on through to the holidays. Hitting that point where I don't have much to say it seems. My Random Thoughts this week was half Tragically Hip lyrics for that reason. I'm just in a 'hunker down and read and watch and listen and not say a damn thing' mood. But, let's get to it anyway...
Avengers 1959 #4: At some point, I lost the plot and, yet, that doesn't matter. It's just watching Chaykin do his thing and going along for the ride that matters. The details are inconsequential. [***3/4]
Avengers: X-Stinction #1: I'll possibly do a '28' post on this and my love of Cable. I wasn't sure if I'd get this issue, right up until I walked through my shop's doors, and, then, it was in my pull file (probably because I buy the Avengers titles), so I got it. Very direct and some very nice moments on art. Pretty good, actually. [***1/4]
Batwoman #4: Increasingly, the writing seems to be coming into focus. The opening pages are wonderful... all of the pages are wonderful. [****]
New Avengers #19: I really hope that Victoria Hand isn't working with Osborn, because that would be stupid. The Avengers don't really trust her, so the betrayal is minimal -- it's almost like she would be proving them right. Osborn trying to outdo the Avengers in public is one of those plots that seems good in theory until someone with half a brain shrugs, says "Who gives a fuck what people think, you're a bad guy and I'm going to kick your ass," and then does so. You almost want Frank Miller's Batman to pop out from behind a bush and mumble about how the heroes have always been criminals and just beat the shit out of any bad guy he can find before disappearing into the night. Honestly, I could see Bendis make that a way to separare the Avengers and the New Avengers. Captain America and the Avengers are concerned with what the public thinks, while Luke Cage and the New Avengers are used to people not liking them and doing the job anyway. Still, an issue with some nice moments -- I liked the Luke/Jessica stuff. [***1/4]
The Unwritten #32: But... what about Frankenstein's Monster? Digging this storyarc so far. [***1/2]
Doc Bizarre, MD: An entertaining, goofy sort of story. Judging from the backmatter, this was originally an idea pitched to the Cartoon Network and it's easy to see why. Tone down Epoch a little, maybe make the first 'case' not about a Frankenstein-esque scientist who takes shortcuts, thereby making an impotent monster, and it's a good idea for a cartoon for kids. 'Monster doctor,' basically. Judging from reactions before I got this (finally!), I was expecting something a little more slight. Bizarre amused me quite a bit with his constant 'professionalism' no matter what happened. A bit more direct than Charlatan Ball. Suriano is damn talented. [****]
I also got the first half of Sgt. Rock: Between Hell & A Hard Place thanks to the first Vertigo Resurrected issue of this two-issue reprint (that also includes a couple of older Sgt. Rock stories with Joe Kubert art -- I assume the second issue will as well, which is a great idea). I haven't read it yet since the second issue is out next week and I'd rather just wait until then.
Later
Avengers 1959 #4: At some point, I lost the plot and, yet, that doesn't matter. It's just watching Chaykin do his thing and going along for the ride that matters. The details are inconsequential. [***3/4]
Avengers: X-Stinction #1: I'll possibly do a '28' post on this and my love of Cable. I wasn't sure if I'd get this issue, right up until I walked through my shop's doors, and, then, it was in my pull file (probably because I buy the Avengers titles), so I got it. Very direct and some very nice moments on art. Pretty good, actually. [***1/4]
Batwoman #4: Increasingly, the writing seems to be coming into focus. The opening pages are wonderful... all of the pages are wonderful. [****]
New Avengers #19: I really hope that Victoria Hand isn't working with Osborn, because that would be stupid. The Avengers don't really trust her, so the betrayal is minimal -- it's almost like she would be proving them right. Osborn trying to outdo the Avengers in public is one of those plots that seems good in theory until someone with half a brain shrugs, says "Who gives a fuck what people think, you're a bad guy and I'm going to kick your ass," and then does so. You almost want Frank Miller's Batman to pop out from behind a bush and mumble about how the heroes have always been criminals and just beat the shit out of any bad guy he can find before disappearing into the night. Honestly, I could see Bendis make that a way to separare the Avengers and the New Avengers. Captain America and the Avengers are concerned with what the public thinks, while Luke Cage and the New Avengers are used to people not liking them and doing the job anyway. Still, an issue with some nice moments -- I liked the Luke/Jessica stuff. [***1/4]
The Unwritten #32: But... what about Frankenstein's Monster? Digging this storyarc so far. [***1/2]
Doc Bizarre, MD: An entertaining, goofy sort of story. Judging from the backmatter, this was originally an idea pitched to the Cartoon Network and it's easy to see why. Tone down Epoch a little, maybe make the first 'case' not about a Frankenstein-esque scientist who takes shortcuts, thereby making an impotent monster, and it's a good idea for a cartoon for kids. 'Monster doctor,' basically. Judging from reactions before I got this (finally!), I was expecting something a little more slight. Bizarre amused me quite a bit with his constant 'professionalism' no matter what happened. A bit more direct than Charlatan Ball. Suriano is damn talented. [****]
I also got the first half of Sgt. Rock: Between Hell & A Hard Place thanks to the first Vertigo Resurrected issue of this two-issue reprint (that also includes a couple of older Sgt. Rock stories with Joe Kubert art -- I assume the second issue will as well, which is a great idea). I haven't read it yet since the second issue is out next week and I'd rather just wait until then.
Later
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Sketch Reviews (November 10 2011)
"Autumn's Here" by Hawksley Workman is the song of the moment. Just like it is every year around now. I miss baseball.
Batwoman #3: Gorgeous. The writing is getting better, too. A little more suggestive than before. But, damn, that art... [****1/4]
Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE #3: The action bits were good, but this felt like stalling for time somehow -- maybe too much exposition. 'Part three' syndrome strikes again! [***1/4]
Journey into Mystery #631: Rather good writing. I like the way Loki fits into this new Asgard. And, probably the best art Whilce Portacio has done for this comic in his short time aboard it. Still not good in a lot of spots, but much more consistent throughout and didn't entirely ruin the issue. [***]
New Avengers #18: Just fucking get on with it. Norman Osborn gathers his new Dark Avengers and I couldn't give a fuck. Why? BECAUSE IT MEANS NOTHING. We don't need to see any of this. It's something about Bendis's writing that I've grown to hate: his inability to just get on with the story without showing every minute detail that went into the story happening. Just have the new Dark Avengers show up and assume they're on the team because Osborn recruited them -- how else would they get there? This wasn't interesting or insightful or anything. It was a complete waste of 18 pages before those final two pages, which were the only needed pages. Everything that came before was filler. Also: Barney Barton? What the fuck? (Wow, having looked the character up, he's real... and sounds pretty awful. At least Max Cash was interesting...) [*]
Point One #1: Oh, Marvel... Marvel, Marvel, Marvel... I've been fairly on board with what you've been pushing since Civil War. That event may have been godfuckingawful, but it was interesting and got me into a lot of your stuff and I've been a keen reader for years. That seems to be changing. 2011 was not kind. Fear Itself was just as godfuckingawful as Civil War except it lacked the interesting ideas and hook. (No, really, what was it about?) And, now, we have Point One (a horrible title named after a horrible initiative that you keep claiming is a success even though no one else can figure out the criteria for what makes it a success in any way, shape, or form), a preview comic, basically, that sets the stage for 2012. If this is any indication, 2012 will be even worse than 2011. Granted, most of what we see here either doesn't apply to the next big event or is something we've known is coming for a while. The Ultron stuff at the end was unnecessary since we've known that there's a big Ultron story coming since the first Avengers arc... and, then, since that 'point one' issue of Avengers... and this 'tease' added absolutely nothing. No context, little content -- what was the point? Showing off how effects can deliver two entire pages of 'shaky cam' art that looks like shit as a result? Great idea! Get Bryan Hitch to draw seven pages for you and, then, make two of them look like they were printed incorrectly. So, that's seven pages wasted. I don't really care about the Scarlet Spider, so those pages were just lost on me. That they were overwritten with horrendous narration didn't help. The Nova/Terrax/Phoenix bit felt like it was meant to have a purpose and didn't accomplish anything that the 'It's Coming' teaser didn't already... except show that there's a new Nova and he responds to the death of an entire planet with the phrase 'epic fail.' Better get used to hearing that phrase, Marvel. Fuck, better make it the catchphrase of 2012 if this comic is any indication. Okay, there were some things I liked. The mutant stuff looked great, but I couldn't care less about the story. The Doctor Strange thing has lessened my burgeoning enthusiasm for The Defenders following Fraction's Comics Alliance interview. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't good either. Is there something about working in the Marvel Style that makes writers suddenly cover pages with narration? It's like a fucking Stan Lee disease or something... I kind of dug the fire and ice twins story until they broke out. It went from intriguing and a little mysterious to pretty fucking goofy with the turn of a page... and I paid six bucks for this. Fuck me. [*]
Punishermax #19: You know, Frank Castle has a pretty awesome head of hair for a man his age and the amount of stress he lives with. Decent issue that only really got going near the end. The stuff with the Kingpin being isolated and perceived as weak was smart. [***1/2]
The Unwritten #31: The active nature of the story really worked up until the end when Lizzie is all "But Tom's only been doing magic for, like, a day! What if something goes wrong?" and then something goes wrong. Still, this is promising. [***1/2]
Later
Batwoman #3: Gorgeous. The writing is getting better, too. A little more suggestive than before. But, damn, that art... [****1/4]
Frankenstein, Agent of SHADE #3: The action bits were good, but this felt like stalling for time somehow -- maybe too much exposition. 'Part three' syndrome strikes again! [***1/4]
Journey into Mystery #631: Rather good writing. I like the way Loki fits into this new Asgard. And, probably the best art Whilce Portacio has done for this comic in his short time aboard it. Still not good in a lot of spots, but much more consistent throughout and didn't entirely ruin the issue. [***]
New Avengers #18: Just fucking get on with it. Norman Osborn gathers his new Dark Avengers and I couldn't give a fuck. Why? BECAUSE IT MEANS NOTHING. We don't need to see any of this. It's something about Bendis's writing that I've grown to hate: his inability to just get on with the story without showing every minute detail that went into the story happening. Just have the new Dark Avengers show up and assume they're on the team because Osborn recruited them -- how else would they get there? This wasn't interesting or insightful or anything. It was a complete waste of 18 pages before those final two pages, which were the only needed pages. Everything that came before was filler. Also: Barney Barton? What the fuck? (Wow, having looked the character up, he's real... and sounds pretty awful. At least Max Cash was interesting...) [*]
Point One #1: Oh, Marvel... Marvel, Marvel, Marvel... I've been fairly on board with what you've been pushing since Civil War. That event may have been godfuckingawful, but it was interesting and got me into a lot of your stuff and I've been a keen reader for years. That seems to be changing. 2011 was not kind. Fear Itself was just as godfuckingawful as Civil War except it lacked the interesting ideas and hook. (No, really, what was it about?) And, now, we have Point One (a horrible title named after a horrible initiative that you keep claiming is a success even though no one else can figure out the criteria for what makes it a success in any way, shape, or form), a preview comic, basically, that sets the stage for 2012. If this is any indication, 2012 will be even worse than 2011. Granted, most of what we see here either doesn't apply to the next big event or is something we've known is coming for a while. The Ultron stuff at the end was unnecessary since we've known that there's a big Ultron story coming since the first Avengers arc... and, then, since that 'point one' issue of Avengers... and this 'tease' added absolutely nothing. No context, little content -- what was the point? Showing off how effects can deliver two entire pages of 'shaky cam' art that looks like shit as a result? Great idea! Get Bryan Hitch to draw seven pages for you and, then, make two of them look like they were printed incorrectly. So, that's seven pages wasted. I don't really care about the Scarlet Spider, so those pages were just lost on me. That they were overwritten with horrendous narration didn't help. The Nova/Terrax/Phoenix bit felt like it was meant to have a purpose and didn't accomplish anything that the 'It's Coming' teaser didn't already... except show that there's a new Nova and he responds to the death of an entire planet with the phrase 'epic fail.' Better get used to hearing that phrase, Marvel. Fuck, better make it the catchphrase of 2012 if this comic is any indication. Okay, there were some things I liked. The mutant stuff looked great, but I couldn't care less about the story. The Doctor Strange thing has lessened my burgeoning enthusiasm for The Defenders following Fraction's Comics Alliance interview. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't good either. Is there something about working in the Marvel Style that makes writers suddenly cover pages with narration? It's like a fucking Stan Lee disease or something... I kind of dug the fire and ice twins story until they broke out. It went from intriguing and a little mysterious to pretty fucking goofy with the turn of a page... and I paid six bucks for this. Fuck me. [*]
Punishermax #19: You know, Frank Castle has a pretty awesome head of hair for a man his age and the amount of stress he lives with. Decent issue that only really got going near the end. The stuff with the Kingpin being isolated and perceived as weak was smart. [***1/2]
The Unwritten #31: The active nature of the story really worked up until the end when Lizzie is all "But Tom's only been doing magic for, like, a day! What if something goes wrong?" and then something goes wrong. Still, this is promising. [***1/2]
Later
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Sketch Reviews (October 13 2011)
A new "28" post is below this one.
Batwoman #2: The writing is fine. I'm here for the art. The way that different styles run up against one another here is astonishing. [****]
Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #2: I'm really glad I picked up the first issue last month, because this was another good issue. The extended origin of the fishwoman went on a bit long, but, otherwise, it's a fairly entertaining comic. [***3/4]
New Avengers #17: Hey, Daredevil is on the New Avengers... until the next issue of the series proper where he doesn't appear at all. Also, is it just me or couldn't someone as smart as Tony Stark maybe let it be known in his distress call that hitting the giant robot isn't a good tactic? For a genius, he's pretty stupid when the story conveniently calls for it. A fine issue, honestly. Deodato runs hot and cold. The stuff with Osborn doesn't have me won over yet. [***1/4]
Punishermax #18: I loved the opening and everything with Frank. The rest was... less engrossing. Especially the reveal with Elektra and Vanessa. The final page was pretty great and shows just how far down Frank has fallen. He's completely at sea... I hope that Aaron doesn't leave the book after he takes down the Kingpin, because what comes AFTER that should prove interesting. [***1/2]
S.H.I.E.L.D. #3: And here's where, once again, I run up against all of those who adore Dustin Waver's art, because it's not strong enough to carry this issue. It's detailed, sure; it's also superficial and hollow. None of that detail made what I was seeing any more impressive. If anything, it made it more static and distant. I like that Hickman and Weaver went for something different here... it just absolutely did not work for me. [*1/2]
X-Men: Regenesis #1: Well, if you want people picking a side, this is the comic for you! Because that's all that happens. And it's as tedious as you can imagine, especially when a fairly laughable tribal theme is thrown in and keeps recurring throughout the issue. What I do find funny is that I got to the end and the comic asks me whose side I'm on. I agree with Cyclops, yet Wolverine and the X-Men is the comic that appeals to me more. This comic wasn't even a story -- it was pages of continuity throw onto the page so everyone can see clearly where their favourite characters stand. The only scene that really worked was the Hope one... [waste of fucking money]
I also got the new issue of glamourpuss and will get around to reading my stack of that comic at some point, and the CBLDF's Liberty Annual 2011 but haven't read it yet.
Later
Batwoman #2: The writing is fine. I'm here for the art. The way that different styles run up against one another here is astonishing. [****]
Frankenstein, Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #2: I'm really glad I picked up the first issue last month, because this was another good issue. The extended origin of the fishwoman went on a bit long, but, otherwise, it's a fairly entertaining comic. [***3/4]
New Avengers #17: Hey, Daredevil is on the New Avengers... until the next issue of the series proper where he doesn't appear at all. Also, is it just me or couldn't someone as smart as Tony Stark maybe let it be known in his distress call that hitting the giant robot isn't a good tactic? For a genius, he's pretty stupid when the story conveniently calls for it. A fine issue, honestly. Deodato runs hot and cold. The stuff with Osborn doesn't have me won over yet. [***1/4]
Punishermax #18: I loved the opening and everything with Frank. The rest was... less engrossing. Especially the reveal with Elektra and Vanessa. The final page was pretty great and shows just how far down Frank has fallen. He's completely at sea... I hope that Aaron doesn't leave the book after he takes down the Kingpin, because what comes AFTER that should prove interesting. [***1/2]
S.H.I.E.L.D. #3: And here's where, once again, I run up against all of those who adore Dustin Waver's art, because it's not strong enough to carry this issue. It's detailed, sure; it's also superficial and hollow. None of that detail made what I was seeing any more impressive. If anything, it made it more static and distant. I like that Hickman and Weaver went for something different here... it just absolutely did not work for me. [*1/2]
X-Men: Regenesis #1: Well, if you want people picking a side, this is the comic for you! Because that's all that happens. And it's as tedious as you can imagine, especially when a fairly laughable tribal theme is thrown in and keeps recurring throughout the issue. What I do find funny is that I got to the end and the comic asks me whose side I'm on. I agree with Cyclops, yet Wolverine and the X-Men is the comic that appeals to me more. This comic wasn't even a story -- it was pages of continuity throw onto the page so everyone can see clearly where their favourite characters stand. The only scene that really worked was the Hope one... [waste of fucking money]
I also got the new issue of glamourpuss and will get around to reading my stack of that comic at some point, and the CBLDF's Liberty Annual 2011 but haven't read it yet.
Later
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Sketch Reviews (September 15 2011)
I've been rereading Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell in preparation for the release of 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami next month; at the same time, I've been in a bit of a David Bowie mood lately having gotten a few more of his albums. So, it made sense that I'd eventually put Diamond Dogs on to create a little mental synergy or some other stupid term. The Nineteen Eighty-Four-related songs are ones I like, but... they don't really seem to have a lot to do with the book, do they, besides a few phrases here and there... The one that comes closest is "Big Brother" and it has some odd moments that make you go "What the fuck is he singing about?" Ah well. The songs sound awesome...
Batwoman #1: Finally! For the art alone, this should be the top-selling DC #1 for September. Of course, it won't be, but... [****1/4]
Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #4: Is Britt Black meant to be Encyclopedia Brown all grown up? I sure hope so. Not at all the comic I expected. Richards continues to do horrible things and it all works out fine. Who saw that coming? Maybe I should have... I'm looking forward to whatever Fatale turns out to be. [****]
Daredevil #3: Another great-looking comic! A lot of this seemed to be Waid giving Rivera a chance to show off before Waid came back towards the end with the court case. That scene in the bar to end the issue was pretty amusing. I like how the opening arc was only three issues, too. Probably a necessity for Rivera (though maybe not, I don't know), but effective and economical. Definitely sticking with this book. [****]
Fear Itself #6: Is it just me or does Odin shift his personality and mood like twelve times in this issue? He has more mood swings than you'd think possible. Then again, he's senile old man, so he's probably just confused much of the time... Looking at the promo image for the Mighty that was release today, I have to wonder: why no weapon for Steve? Who builds a bunch of mystical god-killer weapons and doesn't build one for the supposed best fighter/tactical mind in the Avengers? Tony "I won Civil War" Stark, that's who! It will all be over soon, my children... [**]
Journey into Mystery #627: My favourite part is the teaser for the next issue at that promises it "on sale 9/14/2011" aka yesterday. Oops. A pretty good issue that felt substantial by detailing a bunch of stuff we didn't know while, at the same time, not actually advancing the story one bit really. Clever bit of storytelling by Gillen. That's how tie-ins are supposed to work, right? [***1/2]
Scalped #52: Now, that's an ending! And a comic! I really do like this new paper they're using. And Nitz's nicknames for his agents are... well, funny... more than anything, this new arc has me wondering where it all goes. I surely do love this comic. [****]
Later
Batwoman #1: Finally! For the art alone, this should be the top-selling DC #1 for September. Of course, it won't be, but... [****1/4]
Criminal: The Last of the Innocent #4: Is Britt Black meant to be Encyclopedia Brown all grown up? I sure hope so. Not at all the comic I expected. Richards continues to do horrible things and it all works out fine. Who saw that coming? Maybe I should have... I'm looking forward to whatever Fatale turns out to be. [****]
Daredevil #3: Another great-looking comic! A lot of this seemed to be Waid giving Rivera a chance to show off before Waid came back towards the end with the court case. That scene in the bar to end the issue was pretty amusing. I like how the opening arc was only three issues, too. Probably a necessity for Rivera (though maybe not, I don't know), but effective and economical. Definitely sticking with this book. [****]
Fear Itself #6: Is it just me or does Odin shift his personality and mood like twelve times in this issue? He has more mood swings than you'd think possible. Then again, he's senile old man, so he's probably just confused much of the time... Looking at the promo image for the Mighty that was release today, I have to wonder: why no weapon for Steve? Who builds a bunch of mystical god-killer weapons and doesn't build one for the supposed best fighter/tactical mind in the Avengers? Tony "I won Civil War" Stark, that's who! It will all be over soon, my children... [**]
Journey into Mystery #627: My favourite part is the teaser for the next issue at that promises it "on sale 9/14/2011" aka yesterday. Oops. A pretty good issue that felt substantial by detailing a bunch of stuff we didn't know while, at the same time, not actually advancing the story one bit really. Clever bit of storytelling by Gillen. That's how tie-ins are supposed to work, right? [***1/2]
Scalped #52: Now, that's an ending! And a comic! I really do like this new paper they're using. And Nitz's nicknames for his agents are... well, funny... more than anything, this new arc has me wondering where it all goes. I surely do love this comic. [****]
Later
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Sketch Reviews (November 24 2010)
Impressions, first thoughts, whatever...
Batman: Odyssey #5: Okay, what the hell did I just read? I have never been as confused reading a comic before as I was reading this one. And, when I stop to think about it, it actually seems fairly simple, just told in the most insane, baffling way possible. That said, the art is fun and the idea that someone has been using Batman and crazy criminals to keep Bruce Wayne occupied and away from doing good... that's a fantastic idea. [**3/4]
Batwoman #0: A nice teaser for the series. JH Williams art is always worth seeing, though I'm not sold on Amy Reeder as the other artist on the book. She's competent, but nowhere in the same league. The way she draws people and hair reminds me of Howard Porter's art. We'll have to see if the writing of the series is enough to keep me on board for her issues. [***1/2]
Captain America #612: Butch Guice brought his a-game to this issue. Very energetic, dark art that provided mood and some cool action scenes. Brubaker's writing is back in top form, too. This seems like the arc that reminds everyone just how great this book can be. [****]
Scalped #43: The two Jasons deliver a strong done-in-one story about Sheriff Karnow. A sad little man that makes himself feel big by talking a big game and lying like crazy. Where he fits into the larger picture is still somewhat vague (if he does at all). LaTour's art is great. Thick lines, cartoony style that boils every image down to its essence. Very energetic. Great issue. [****1/4]
Secret Warriors #22: Nick Fury is a cold-blooded motherfucker. And damned if JT didn't deserve it. Alex was right way back when. "Night" moved the plot along quickly with nothing the same now as it was before the story began. I really enjoyed the little coda at the end. And Vitti with IFS on art? This how this comic is supposed to look. [***3/4]
Thor the Mighty Avenger #6: Finally, the payoff of Thor and Jane with a really great showdown between Thor and Heimdall. I like the different look of Heimdall here and that Chris Samnee didn't feel beholden to the standard version of the character. More than any issue, this one showed just how immature and in need of humility Thor is. Hopefully, from here, he begins to learn it... for two issues. [****]
Ultimate Comics Avengers 3 #4: Okay, the opening sequence amused me. The revelation of the vampire in the Iron Man suit was... well, kind of dull, but his fight with Nerd Hulk was fantastic. I still never want to see anyone ink Steve Dillon whose name isn't Steve Dillon, though. Also, dug the bickering between the Stark brothers. An entertaining issue. [***1/4]
Later.
Batman: Odyssey #5: Okay, what the hell did I just read? I have never been as confused reading a comic before as I was reading this one. And, when I stop to think about it, it actually seems fairly simple, just told in the most insane, baffling way possible. That said, the art is fun and the idea that someone has been using Batman and crazy criminals to keep Bruce Wayne occupied and away from doing good... that's a fantastic idea. [**3/4]
Batwoman #0: A nice teaser for the series. JH Williams art is always worth seeing, though I'm not sold on Amy Reeder as the other artist on the book. She's competent, but nowhere in the same league. The way she draws people and hair reminds me of Howard Porter's art. We'll have to see if the writing of the series is enough to keep me on board for her issues. [***1/2]
Captain America #612: Butch Guice brought his a-game to this issue. Very energetic, dark art that provided mood and some cool action scenes. Brubaker's writing is back in top form, too. This seems like the arc that reminds everyone just how great this book can be. [****]
Scalped #43: The two Jasons deliver a strong done-in-one story about Sheriff Karnow. A sad little man that makes himself feel big by talking a big game and lying like crazy. Where he fits into the larger picture is still somewhat vague (if he does at all). LaTour's art is great. Thick lines, cartoony style that boils every image down to its essence. Very energetic. Great issue. [****1/4]
Secret Warriors #22: Nick Fury is a cold-blooded motherfucker. And damned if JT didn't deserve it. Alex was right way back when. "Night" moved the plot along quickly with nothing the same now as it was before the story began. I really enjoyed the little coda at the end. And Vitti with IFS on art? This how this comic is supposed to look. [***3/4]
Thor the Mighty Avenger #6: Finally, the payoff of Thor and Jane with a really great showdown between Thor and Heimdall. I like the different look of Heimdall here and that Chris Samnee didn't feel beholden to the standard version of the character. More than any issue, this one showed just how immature and in need of humility Thor is. Hopefully, from here, he begins to learn it... for two issues. [****]
Ultimate Comics Avengers 3 #4: Okay, the opening sequence amused me. The revelation of the vampire in the Iron Man suit was... well, kind of dull, but his fight with Nerd Hulk was fantastic. I still never want to see anyone ink Steve Dillon whose name isn't Steve Dillon, though. Also, dug the bickering between the Stark brothers. An entertaining issue. [***1/4]
Later.
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