Jonathan, Rachel, and Logan review My Adventures With Superman, Annilation 2099, and Batman and Robin.
Comic Talk Cafe Issue #8: “The Bat, the cape, and the Future”
Reviews
Review: Transformers #7
Heavy is the Crown
Daniel Warren Johnson delivers yet again with great art and an even better Transformers story. Both the Autobots and Decepticons are licking their wounds from the previous battles and are regrouping. for the Deception’s, Starscream is being treated how he treats others and pays the price. Arcee is recalling her experiences in the war for Cybertron and is trying to help Carley not repeat her mistakes. Optimus is trying to comfort Spike after his father’s sacrifice. This is a transitional story, we can tell that the next issue things are going to heat up but time is not waisted with this story. You get great character moments and some interesting backstory for Arcee. Also, great news if you are a Soundwave fan. The art is dynamic and visceral. The pages are packed with visual information, making you want to keep looking for some new tidbit or detail. The only problem is that I have to wait until the next issue for more!
Review: Green Lantern #9
Green is the New Green
This was a nice payoff for the last few issues. It answers a few things but leaves more to be answered. this was a great setup for the next issues to come. I was happy to see the reason for Hal’s ring issues and I’m excited to see where things will go.
The Art: I loved the art in this issue. There were some really cool panel layouts and solid art throughout. there were some great pages that really sold a sense of scale that works great for a story set in space.
The Story: I’ve been out of the loop from GL stories so I was a little lost but the story was still enjoyable as sort of a cap to the last 8 issues.
It’s my hope that the Gl corps gets back to at least some of its former glory. I think it will but it will take time. I’m defiantly along for the ride!
Review: Robo Force #1
Suction Cup action not included!
The story does not follow the original as far as I can tell. Not that it really matters, these stories were conceived to sell toys. That being said, I was not really grabbed by this new story. This is the beginning and I’ll give a chance to develop. The art is nice and bright. Has the feel of a Saturday morning cartoon. I like the robot designs, they strike a nice balance between the original toys and iterates them to make them more interesting. I like the idea of taking these somewhat forgotten toy lines and making a connected story universe out of them. I’m looking forward to some of other books coming in the Nacelleverse like Biker Mice from Mars.
Review: Void Rivals #8
The long walk
Our two main protagonists are walking to the center of their divided world. Trying to survive being hunted by the most fearsome warrior of their two lands.
This issue felt a bit like filer, not really moving the plot forward too much. Some good action but otherwise not any big revelations.
The Story: Again not too much in new story point, maybe some hints at what’s to come. Some good character moments between the two main characters though.
The Art: the art is great as it has been. It has a nice Tron like feel but not over the top. The world feels alien but is relatable. the action was nice but some of the font work I felt got in the way.
Review: Usagi Yojimbo #275
The Crow part 1
Stan Sakai does not disappoint with this start of a new storyline. With the snowy mountains behind them usagi and his cousin are in a new and welcomed warmer place. Hoping for some peace they come upon a person being assaulted by four others. Rescuing him seems like it will be a problem for the pair.
Thus starts “The Crow” the latest storyline in this 40 year journey. I feel like this was a great start and I’m looking forward to the next issue.
The art: Stan is nothing if not consistent, great classic line work. Lots of detail and great characterizations of emotion for the characters. The colors by Hi-Fi are stubble and complement, not overpower the line work.
The Story: Though not a very original premise, it’s the beat by beat character moments that are enjoyable here. The older, wiser Usagi and his younger impetuous cousin are a nice pair. You feel like both could learn from each other. Of course it’s great to have an appearance from the supporting cast like Gin.
Review: Justice League vs Godzilla vs Kong
The title of this book tells you everything you need to know about the plot. This story does not exist in the main DC cannon. Some might be disappointed but I feel this is a plus because the writer is able to do what ever they want. I was surprised at how well they explained why Godzilla showing up in the DC universe. The first issue setup how this all happened and the second issue has a great battle between a Bat kiju and the Bat family. Overall I don’t have anything really negative to say. The story is silly but fun. You can tell the writer has a love of the characters and is having a good time playing with these characters. There are lots of callous and Easter eggs in the first two issues and plenty of cameos from DC and the monsterverse. I’m very much looking forward to seeing where they take us next.
Review: Dark Droids #2
Rising Stakes and Dark Secrets: ‘Dark Droids #2’ Builds Anticipation for a Showdown.
“Dark Droids #2” delivers as a solid middle entry in the ongoing saga, effectively fleshing out the malevolent force known as ‘the Scourge.’ While clearly a transitional issue, it manages to raise the stakes by shedding light on the motivations and dangers surrounding this dark entity. The anticipation for an imminent, pivotal showdown is palpable, making this issue a crucial build-up to what promises to be a climactic confrontation.
Artistically, the issue stands on firm ground. The illustrations are competent, offering a clear, sequential flow that keeps the reader engaged without necessarily breaking new ground. The color palette complements the story well, rounding out the visual aspect of the comic.
In summary, “Dark Droids #2” succeeds as a mid-series installment that leaves readers invested in the outcome and looking forward to the next issue. The series has skillfully heightened the intrigue and suspense, making issue #3 an eagerly awaited chapter in this unfolding drama.
Review: Wild’s End #4
A Journey of Heart: ‘Wild’s End #4’ Prioritizes Character Over Plot, and It Works.
In “Wild’s End #4,” the struggle against an alien adversary persists as our heroes venture to find a game-changing artifact. While the overarching narrative makes modest strides, the issue compensates with powerful emotional beats and compelling character interactions.
This installment masterfully harnesses the strength of its ensemble cast, a collection of unique and relatable characters that truly embody the spirit of the series. The emotional moments shared among these characters add a depth that enriches the reader’s connection with the unfolding drama.
While some may long for more plot development, the emotional richness of “Wild’s End #4” offers a satisfying read that sets the scene for future issues. The promise of a continuation in October has us eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this captivating tale.
Review: “The Amazing Spider-Man #32-35
A Web of Mixed Emotions: ‘Sin Spear Saga’ Tackles Morality but Misses the Mark
The “Sin Spear Saga” concludes in a mixed bag of highs and lows, capturing Spider-Man grappling with the duality of human nature. While the thematic exploration of the potential for evil within everyone is intriguing, certain story elements fall flat.
Issue #35 stands out as the redeeming chapter, featuring pivotal character development for key players like Peter Parker, Norman Osborn, and even Kraven the Hunter. The arc succeeds in making Peter confront his inner demons, with assistance from both allies and adversaries.
However, not all plot twists are as engaging. The sudden introduction of superpowers for Mary Jane feels forced, and the complications with ‘Paul’ appear to be a mere plot device destined for short-term impact. Their relationship drama seems staged, making it difficult to invest emotionally.
Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising aspect is the Sin Spear itself—a device designed to absorb sin—which, despite the fantastical world of Spider-Man, strains credulity to the breaking point.
But it’s not all gloom; the arc does set up tantalizing threads for future stories, notably the upcoming “Gang War” crossover, which holds much promise.
In summary, while the “Sin Spear Saga” has its moments, its inconsistencies prevent it from being a knockout. It’s a chapter that raises compelling questions about morality, but could benefit from more coherent storytelling choices.
