Reviews

Review: “Blue Beetle #1 and #2”

Jonathan TowryOctober 23, 2023Reviews

“Heroism Meets Mystery: ‘Blue Beetle’ Sets the Stage”

Just when Blue Beetle thinks he’s getting the hang of this superhero gig, along comes a mysterious figure to throw a wrench into the works. Spanning the first two issues, the series does an admirable job of engaging both new and returning readers, catching them up on the essentials of Blue Beetle’s world.

The narrative is well-paced, making it easy to connect with the characters and the unfolding storyline. By issue #2, one feels sufficiently up-to-date, even without prior knowledge of preceding arcs. This speaks volumes about the accessible storytelling, which sets the stage for intriguing developments ahead.

Visually, the art is dynamic and expressive, albeit a tad too loose at times. It conveys action and emotion effectively, but there are moments where tighter lines could have added clarity. The coloring, dark and atmospheric, lends gravity to the scenes; though it’s worth mentioning that the darkness could be a result of the printing process.

In summary, “Blue Beetle #1 and #2” offers a promising start to what could be an enthralling series. While there are minor quibbles concerning the art and color palette, they don’t detract significantly from the overall experience. For now, it’s more than enough to keep readers invested and curious to see where Blue Beetle’s adventures will lead next.

Review: Ultimate Invasion” #1-4

Jonathan TowryOctober 4, 2023Reviews

Traversing Time and Twists: A Dive into Ultimate Invasion’s Narrative Tapestry.

Spoilers ahead! “Ultimate Invasion” #1-4 is a captivating mini-series that brilliantly intertwines solid artwork by Bryan Hitch and compelling storytelling by Jonathan Hickman. The series kicks off with a grand introduction to the Maker, a villain whose intellect and unhinged nature instantly signal a whirlwind of chaos. Despite my appreciation for the narrative and art, the requirement for background knowledge from earlier Ultimate Marvel stories made the narrative slightly challenging to navigate initially. A re-visit to some earlier comics would’ve enhanced my comprehension and overall experience.

The narrative arc gracefully unfolds, showing the Maker’s Time Machine in Issue 2, hinting at the complexity that lay ahead. By Issue 3, my favorite, the curtain lifts, revealing the Maker’s architectural marvel on his Earth, alongside engaging alternate takes on beloved characters. This issue also brings in Kang the Conqueror, a bit of a tired concept given the MCU’s narrative, but it left me curious about the writer’s approach in the unfolding drama. The geopolitical underlay, paired with the Maker’s alterations to the timeline, created a rich, complex backdrop that resonated well with me.

Issue 4, albeit priced at $9, serves a bombastic finale filled with stunning double-page spreads by Hitch, further enhanced by Sinclair’s subtle color palette. The narrative crescendo sees Tony’s dad seemingly sacrificing himself for a greater cause, paving the way for Tony as Iron Lad. Despite the grandeur, the hefty price tag could be a point of contention for some readers. Yet, the discovery of a frozen Captain America and Tony’s evolution hints at a new narrative horizon, marking a strong endpoint yet a promising start for upcoming adventures.

In conclusion, “Ultimate Invasion” #1-4, though slightly marred by its dependency on past narratives, triumphs in setting the stage for the Ultimate Universe’s return. The meticulous artwork and the expansive, detailed environments created a visually enthralling experience. The narrative, albeit slightly encumbered by its historical baggage, succeeded in rekindling my excitement for what’s next in the Ultimate series. The series, through its nuanced storytelling and artistic prowess, managed to re-ignite the spark for the upcoming Ultimate Spider-Man, marking a victorious return of the Ultimate Marvel narrative arc.

Review: “Black Panther #4”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

“Black Panther #4” picks up the pacing with an enthralling standoff between Black Panther and Deathlock, further delving into the intricate world of city politics and the budding dynamics between Black Panther and Beisa. While the narrative progression is commendable, there’s a palpable sense that certain elements, such as the enigmatic cult, could have used more exploration to provide a richer understanding of the overarching plot.

The art, which has been a strong point in previous issues, unfortunately, falters a bit towards the end. This inconsistency detracts slightly from the immersion and may leave avid readers longing for a more polished visual experience.

Despite its uneven nature, the issue keeps the momentum alive and maintains the interest of its readers. While “Black Panther #4” might not be the strongest entry in the series, its foundational storyline and character developments assure fans that it’s worth sticking around. Here’s hoping future issues delve deeper into the hinted mysteries and offer a more consistent artistic rendering.

Review: “Fantastic Four #11”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

“Fantastic Four #11” shines the spotlight on the ever-lovable, ever-rocky Ben Grimm, a character whose depth and charm never seem to wane. It’s hard to resist a story where we get a blend of falling houses and pesky dogs – the very kind of quirky adventures that the Fantastic Four is known for. In an era where large-scale interconnected narratives dominate the comic scene, this issue serves as a breath of fresh air with its episodic approach. It’s a testament to the richness of the FF’s world that they can effortlessly traverse tales ranging from the heartwarming streets of New York to the farthest corners of the cosmos.

While the story encapsulates the spirit of the Fantastic Four perfectly, the art leaves a bit to be desired. The inconsistency in the artwork, particularly in the portrayal of the team members and notably Ben, might jar some loyal fans. Rendering the Thing is no easy task, but this iteration doesn’t quite hit the mark.

That said, the mesmerizing covers by the legendary Alex Ross are the cherry on top, adding an aura of classic allure to the book.

To sum it up, “Fantastic Four #11” is a delightful read that reminds us why we fell in love with Marvel’s First Family in the first place. While there’s room for artistic improvement, the narrative stands strong, making it a must-read for all FF aficionados.

Review: “Firefly: The Fall Guys #1”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

“Firefly: The Fall Guys #1” is a treat for Browncoats everywhere. Brought to life through Sam Humphries’ storytelling, with Jordi Perez’s expressive illustrations and Francesco Segala’s evocative coloring, the issue effectively captures the essence of the beloved ‘verse.

The ever-resilient crew of the Serenity once again finds themselves in the thick of things, their desperate financial straits forcing them into uneasy dealings with some familiar foes. As expected, their plans hardly go off without a hitch, paving the way for a narrative filled with the quintessential Firefly blend of action, wit, and heart. The dynamics between the crew members ooze that undeniable sense of camaraderie, punctuated with humor, reminiscent of the original show.

Perez’s art, with its clean lines and expressive character depictions, coupled with Segala’s coloring, effectively evokes the mood of an old western – a distinctive hallmark of the Firefly universe. The panel progression is deft, ensuring the story maintains a rhythmic flow, making for an engaging read.

However, for fans deeply entrenched in the lore, the issue might raise eyebrows concerning its chronological placement within the Firefly saga. The narrative ambiance suggests a timeline post the events of the movie, “Serenity,” but it’s not definitively clear, causing a slight disconnect.

Ending on a nail-biting cliffhanger, “The Fall Guys #1” promises a tantalizing journey ahead. Despite minor hiccups in continuity clarity, the issue serves as a captivating reintroduction to the world of Firefly, whetting appetites for more adventures with Captain Reynolds and his ragtag crew. Here’s to hoping the subsequent issues soar even higher!

Review: “The Rocketeer #2”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

“The Rocketeer #2” continues the trajectory set in its predecessor, delivering a solid continuation while still echoing some of the same concerns from the previous issue. The narrative is definitely gaining momentum, as our intrepid hero delves deeper into the mystery surrounding his mentor’s disappearance. The issue bears the classic hallmarks of a ‘middle issue’ — serving primarily to propel the story forward without delivering any significant peaks or revelations.

While the narrative’s progression is commendable and keeps the readers engaged, the issue falls into that all-too-familiar territory: it’s neither outstanding nor lackluster. A safe bridge that sets up the stage, one hopes, for more thrilling subsequent developments.

In conclusion, “The Rocketeer #2” is a decent read, staying true to the overarching plot while not venturing too far into the extraordinary. For fans dedicated to the series, it’ll be a necessary stepping stone, but one can only hope for some more high-flying action and surprises in the forthcoming issues.

Review: “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds – The Scorpion Run #1”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

“Star Trek: Strange New Worlds – The Scorpion Run #1” is a delightful journey back into the universe of the beloved streaming series. Reading it, you’re instantly transported to an episode that could’ve seamlessly fit within the show’s timeline. The portrayal of the Enterprise is immaculate, with the artist showcasing a remarkable ability to capture the likeness of the series’ characters, bridging the gap between screen and page.

True to Trek’s spirit, the narrative doesn’t shy away from posing complex moral quandaries. In this issue, the crew finds themselves navigating an interstellar landscape riddled with beings who challenge their core principles and values. This essence of Trek – the constant juxtaposition of the Federation’s ideals against contrasting civilizations – is captured with finesse. Complementing the storytelling is the vibrant color palette, infusing the panels with a sense of awe and wonder synonymous with space exploration.

However, not all elements are out of this world. The designs for some of the other starships fall into the realm of the generic, a recurrent issue that has slightly marred Trek’s legacy over the years.

Nevertheless, “The Scorpion Run #1” has firmly set its phasers to “enthrall.” Despite minor hitches, it successfully rekindles that familiar Trek magic, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next starry adventure. Warp speed ahead to issue #2!

Review: “Black Panther 3”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

Review: “Black Panther 3”

“Black Panther 3” delivers a steady, albeit somewhat middling, installment in the series. The artwork, while adequate, presents a few standout panels that genuinely capture the eye. However, the consistency in quality appears to waver at points, making the overall visual experience feel somewhat uneven.

Narratively, this issue delves deeper into the intricacies of the city’s political landscape, particularly the dynamics between the two dominant families. This backstory offers a richer understanding of the unfolding drama, although the pacing might feel slightly restrained to some. Fortunately, the conclusion promises an intriguing setup for the upcoming issue, sparking curiosity for what lies ahead.

Overall, while “Black Panther 3” might not be the most memorable entry in the series, it serves as a functional bridge, setting the stage for potential excitement in future issues.

Review: “GROO in the Wild 1-2”

Jonathan TowrySeptember 29, 2023Reviews

Review: “GROO in the Wild 1-2”

Groo is back, and true to form, he remains as delightfully dim-witted as ever. Fans of Sergio Aragones and Mark Evanier will find their collaboration in “GROO in the Wild” a nostalgic treat, replete with the whimsicality and absurdities we’ve come to love. It’s clear that Groo has retained his iconic charm, inadvertently wreaking havoc wherever he roams, much to the delight (and sometimes dismay) of longtime fans like me.

There’s an unmistakable trace of satire within Groo’s adventures. Reminiscent of tales starring Conan the Barbarian, Groo comically bumbles his way through, offering a hilarious contrast to the usual fierce and competent warrior archetype. Accompanied by Rufferto, his much sharper canine sidekick, the pair showcase a dynamic that’s both heartwarming and hilariously unbalanced.

The latest miniseries, “In the Wild,” has proven to be no exception. The first issue immerses us into familiar territories with Groo inadvertently stirring up pandemonium. Yet, as we delve into the second issue, a novel and intriguing theme begins to unfurl. While Groo’s tales have often been light-hearted and nonsensical, this story hints at a deeper message, making readers curious about the potential moral lesson Aragones and Evanier might be weaving into the narrative.

In summary, “GROO in the Wild 1-2” successfully marries the classic Groo essence with a fresh thematic direction. Here’s hoping that Aragones and Evanier continue to regale us with Groo’s misadventures for many more years. Highly recommended for both old fans seeking a dose of nostalgia and newcomers ready to dive into the quirky world of Groo!

Review: Wilds End #3

Jonathan TowrySeptember 11, 2023Reviews

Wilds End Continues to Impress with Character Development and Intrigue

Wilds End #3 of the Wilds End series maintains the high standard set by creators Annette and Culbard, offering readers a captivating and thought-provoking narrative. This midpoint issue of the six-part series finds our main characters grappling with the aftermath of their initial encounters with the enigmatic alien invaders. With each installment, the creators excel in character development, world-building, and unveiling the intricacies of the alien plot, keeping readers deeply engaged in the evolving storyline.

One of the standout aspects of this issue is the ongoing character development. The creators skillfully delve into the lives, motivations, and backstories of the characters, steadily revealing more about each of them. This not only enhances the depth of the narrative but also strengthens the reader’s connection to the cast, making their struggles and triumphs all the more meaningful.

As the plot unfolds, readers are treated to a well-executed reveal in this issue that promises to set the stage for an exciting and climactic conclusion to the series. Without giving away any spoilers, this revelation adds a layer of intrigue and anticipation, leaving readers eager to see how the story will evolve in the final installments.

Annette and Culbard’s commitment to world-building remains evident in this issue, with the inclusion of additional extras that enhance the overall reading experience. While not necessary to follow the story, these extras provide valuable context and depth to the Wilds End universe, immersing readers even further into the narrative.

In conclusion, Wilds End #3 continues to impress with its masterful character development, intriguing plot twists, and the creators’ dedication to world-building. The Wilds End series, with its blend of science fiction, character-driven storytelling, and mysteries, is a compelling read that keeps readers eagerly anticipating each new installment. As the series progresses, it consistently delivers on its promises, making it a must-read for fans of the genre and a series worth following to its thrilling conclusion.