Comic Panelist

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 2/22/12

2012-02-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, I hope everyone enjoyed their Presidents Day weekend. A lighter week this week but a quality one. All Star Western is a good book that has never failed to entertain. I can't wait to read this week's issue of Flash since it features the return of Captain Cold, which now that I think about it we have not really seen the Flash battle Captain Cold mano e mano in ages. Last month's issue of Aquaman was one of my favorites and I'm looking forward to seeing how Johns will unfold the mystery of "Who sank Atlantis?" I'm still loving I, Vampire and while the crossover with Batman is unnecessary I do love how Fialkov writes Batman.
Prophet was a strange and pleasant surprise and I look forward to seeing how this book develops. The art in particular was really something special.
It's a light week from Marvel but man it's two of their most fun titles. Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man is still a great book that I just wish would come out faster, and I'm always happy to see Chris Samnee's art (who is joining Daredevil with issue 12 Woohoo!!!). Last but not certainly not least Wolverine and the X-Men is out this week and I will tell you that the last issue was one of the most fun reading experiences I have had reading a comic in ages. It's amazing looking at the range that writer Jason Aaron has, on Scalped and Punisher Max he writes books that are as dark and gritty as they come and then you look at Wolverine and the X-Men and his Astonishing Spider-Man and Wolverine run and its a light adventure that is surprisingly funny. So there you have it guys, now it's your turn what are you picking up this week?

DC
All Star Western #6
Aquaman #6
Flash #6
I,Vampire #6

IMAGE
Prophet #22

MARVEL
Secret Avenger #23
Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #7
Wolverine and the X-Men #6

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 2/15/12

2012-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, here we are at the third week of the month splurge. Most of my favorite books drop this week and it's wonderful. Batman #6 will be the top of the read pile, Snyder is killing it on this book, and I'm seriously running out of compliments for it. I loved the twisty-turns of the last issue, it's been a while since we have seen someone do something like that, particularly from the big two. Wonder Woman has been wonderful Brian Azzerello has given us a world that is as grounded as it is fantastical. I know that Red Hood is not that great a book but I love the art by Kenneth Rocafort and whenever Lobdell slows down and gives Jason, Roy, and Kori some character moments the book can work well. And Kyle Higgins continues to write a great Dick Grayson six issues into his Nightwing run.

Peter Panzerfaust looks like it could be a lot of fun. I hope it delivers on it's potential.

Marvel is releasing all my favorites in some form or another this week. Paolo Rivera returns to Daredevil to blow us all away with his fantastic pencils. Invincible Iron Man continues it's upward trend. And Winter Soldier #2 hits stands sooner than I expected and I couldn't be happier. I really liked the first issue. It brought back all the espionage elements I'm missing from Brubaker's current Captain America run and good lord Butch Guice's pencils are gorgeous. Last but not least I look forward to picking up the hardcover collection of Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man Vol. 1. I still believe this is some of the best work Bendis has done since his Daredevil run and Sara Pichelli's artwork is STUNNING!!!! So there you have it there are my picks for the week, what are you guys looking forward to picking up?

Batman #6

Nightwing #6

Red Hood and the Outlaws #6

Wonder Woman #6

IMAGE

Peter Panzerfaust #1

MARVEL

Daredevil #9

Invincible Iron Man #513

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man HC

Winter Soldier #2

P.S. I want to thank all you guys for continuing to check my blog while the entries have been a little light. Currently I'm working on project that is taking a lot of my writing time and there will be more announcements on that "mystery" project soon. So stay tuned and keep the comic conversation going. The comments section of T'Was the Night Before Wednesday is always the highlight of my week.

T'Was The Night Before Wednesday 2/8/12

2012-02-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys. How is everyone's week going? Mine is going quite well, and will be even better once Wednesday comes around to grace us with new comics. Top of the read pile this week hand down will be Punisher Max #22. Jason Aaron actually has three books dropping this week but this is the one I am both excited and a little sad to read, as it is the last issue. The series (the last eight issues in particular) have been a masterpiece. Aaron has done a brilliant job giving Frank Castle more depth and pathos than any other previous writer. Yet Aaron never necessarily makes Frank sympathetic, what he does do, is make us understand Frank's pain.

I'm excited to see Amy Reeder's debut on Batwoman, while her style is different from JH Williams III she has talent in spades. The first arc of Last of the Greats will conclude this week and if the previous issue proved ANYTHING can happen and I'm excited to see where Fialkov is going to take it. Thief of Thieves sounds like it has a lot of potential and look forward to checking out the first issue. Rick Remender and Gabriel Hardman make their collaborative debut on this week's issue of Secret Avengers which at the very least will be a fun and beautifully drawn book. I had fun with the first issue of Scarlet Spider and hope that it continues an upward trend. So how about you guys what are you looking forward to picking up this week?

Batgirl #6

Batman and Robin #6

Batwoman #6

Deathstroke #6

IMAGE

Last of the Greats #5

Thief of Thieves #1

Marvel

Captain America #8

Incredible Hulk #5

Powers #8

Punisher Max #22

Scarlet Spider #2

Secret Avengers #22

Wolverine and the X-Men #5

Here Comes Before Watchmen. Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Idea of More Watchmen.

2012-02-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

Earlier today DC Comics announced that this summer they will be publish the long rumored prequel event to Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' masterpiece Watchmen. The event will encompass seven mini-series with some pretty impressive talent. Here is the list of the creative teams.

RORSCHACH (4 issues) – Writer: Brian Azzarello. Artist: Lee Bermejo

MINUTEMEN (6 issues) – Writer/Artist: Darwyn Cooke

COMEDIAN (6 issues) – Writer: Brian Azzarello. Artist: J.G. Jones

DR. MANHATTAN (4 issues) – Writer: J. Michael Straczynski. Artist: Adam Hughes

NITE OWL (4 issues) – Writer: J. Michael Straczynski. Artists: Andy and Joe Kubert

OZYMANDIAS (6 issues) – Writer: Len Wein. Artist: Jae Lee

SILK SPECTRE (4 issues) – Writer: Darwyn Cooke. Artist: Amanda Conner

BEFORE WATCHMEN: EPILOGUE Various Writers and Artists and a Crimson Corsair story by Len Wein and John Higgins

The mini-series will be released weekly and will have a two-page back-up Crimson Corsair story by Len Wein and John Higgins.

So how do the creators of Watchmen feel about this? In the official press release co-creator and artist Dave Gibbons was quoted as saying,

"The original series of 'Watchmen' is the complete story that Alan Moore and I wanted to tell. However, I appreciate DC's reasons for this initiative and the wish of the artists and writers involved to pay tribute to our work. May these new additions have the success they desire,"

When contacted by the New York Times for comment Watchmen co-creator and writer Alan Moore was less than enthusiastic.

“Completely shameless.” “I tend to take this latest development as a kind of eager confirmation that they are still apparently dependent on ideas that I had 25 years ago.” “As far as I know,” he said, “there weren’t that many prequels or sequels to ‘Moby-Dick.’ ”

We all knew it was coming but it still doesn't make it any less shocking to hear. After 25 years we are getting more stories from what many consider to be the greatest comic ever written. I have been thinking about this for a while, particularly since Rich Johnston over at Bleeding Cool started posting preview art this past Christmas Day. Do we need a prequel/sequel to Watchmen? The short answer is no. Gibbons and Moore's story is pretty close to comic book perfection. In twelve issues they created a complete, rich, and complex world with an amazing history and characters. It is absolutely not necessary to go back to that world. But to that end they created such a rich world that it left room and desire to be explored further. Go to any Comic Con and you will see artists doing commissions or prints of Watchmen characters. I myself have got a fair share of Nite-Owl sketches. So the appetite to see more of these characters is there, that is undeniable. Is this a money grab??? Absolutely. But it appears like DC Comics is putting the best creative teams possible on the job to make this a quality product. This is not a Joe Bagofdonuts on these books. This is Darwyn Cooke, Brian Azzarello, Lee Bermejo, Amanda Conner J.G. Jones, Adam Hughes, Jae Lee, Andy and Joe Kubert and J. Michael Straczynski, . I for one can not wait to see Darwyn Cooke write and draw a six-issue mini-series about a dysfunctional group of golden age masked adventurers in his Minutemen mini-series. And yes I know it would be cool if it was Cooke's own characters but we need to remember that the Watchmen characters were originally going to be the Charlton Characters and Alan Moore has had more than his share of fun with the literary characters he used in the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and Lost Girls. Moore is absolutely entitled to be unhappy about this but did not create Swamp Thing, Superman, the Joker, or Miracle Man.

What I'm hoping to get out of this are great adventures featuring characters that I love. The less they have to do with the events of the original comic the better. I don't need to see the case that turned Rorschach into the murdering vigilante, we saw that in Watchmen. All the creators for these projects have to do is be true to the characters, but give us something new, that is exciting and relevant to the times. I'm likening this to what IDW did with the Rocketeer Adventures which in no way invalidated Dave Stevens original Rocketeer.

Comic fans make their own continuity if you read one of the mini-series and you like it then count it as part of your Watchmen tapestry if you don't, then don't count it.To all the purists out there still angry that this is happening, that's okay. DC isn't going to stop printing Watchmen, they are not going to come into your house and steal your copy off your shelf. This is not George Lucas altering the original cuts of his Star Wars films. All you need to do is not buy it. Reread your copy of the graphic novel. I have always find something new every time I reread it and I'm sure you will to. If anything, good or bad this will make you appreciate the original Watchmen graphic novel all the more.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 2/1/12

2012-01-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

How is it going guys? As we start the second month of the year, (where is the time going?) we get a very solid first week of the month.

I'm starting to feel very conflicted about Action Comics. Grant Morrison on Superman should be a home run but it's pacing feels erratic and it seems to have lost all the momentum it had in the first two issues.With it's recent break in it's first arc it feels like the book has no idea where it's going. That said Andy Kubert's pencils are a very nice improvement over Rags Morales. I can't wait to see Buddy Baker's independent superhero movie in this week's issue of Animal Man, and Swamp Thing has just been getting better and better.

Josh Fialkov is writing a fun Doctor Who tale that has me seriously jonesing for a screening of Casablanca. I can't wait to read issue five of The Strange Talent of Luther Strode, it took me a while to find this book, but it is a great read and I highly recommend it Ed Brubaker has two books this week Fatale #2 and Winter Soldier #1. Both of which will be at the top of my reading pile. I really liked the first issue of Fatale, it was a very meaty first issue introducing a lot of interesting characters and concepts and I honestly have no idea where it's going, but in a good way...unlike Action Comics. I almost want to call Winter Soldier a creator owned book, considering how much of that character really is a pure Brubaker creation and Guice's preview art looks amazing.

I really enjoyed the last issue of Amazing Spider-Man. Dan Slott takes a simple premise, (hero encounters a possible dark future, must prevent it from coming to pass) and really making it an entertaining two-issue arc. Greg Rucka is really bringing his A-game to his Punisher run and this will definitely help ease the pain of losing Jason Aaron's Punisher Max run next week. Now Defenders is a book I am liking but am not loving, recently Matt Fraction tweeted that he feels that the book really finds it's feet with the third issue and I hope he is right.

Okay now it's your turn, what are you guys looking forward to picking up this week?

Action Comics #6 Combo Pack

Animal Man #6

Swamp Thing #6

IDW

Doctor Who #14

IMAGE

Fatale #2

Strange Talent of Luther Strode #5

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #679

Avengers Academy #23

Defenders #3

Punisher #8

Winter Soldier #1

T'Was The Night Before Wednesday 1/25/12

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, how's everyone doing this week? This is a wonderfully light week but what we lack in quantity we make up for in quality. All Star Western has been a great book hand down. Palmiotti, Gray, and Moritat have done a great job giving us a book that is a consistently entertaining read. Aquaman and Flash continue to be just great superhero comics. Josh Fialkov has been knocking it out of the park with I, Vampire which I consider to be in the top tier of the "New 52." Not going to lie I'm glad Justice League is coming out this week. Last week was a strong enough week with out it.

This week I'm not picking up any single issues from Marvel instead I'm am just getting the first collection of Mark Waid's Daredevil run. If you have not checked this out yet I can not recommend it enough this is the best superhero book on the market hands down. Mark Waid collaborates beautifully with Marcos Martin and Paolo Rivera. Seriously pick this up.

I picked up Prophet #21 and I was very impressed with it. I love the world Brandon Graham and Simon Roy built. I'm interested to see what crazy places this book will take us next. Batman #5 was awesome and while we have seen books play with page layout before it has been a long time since we have seen any of the big two do something this innovative. Okay now it's your turn, what are you guys picking up?

All Star Western #5

Aquaman #5

Flash #5

I, Vampire #5

Justice League Combo #5

Marvel

Daredevil Vol. 1 HC

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 1/18/12

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, hope everyone had as great a week in comics as I did. There were so many stellar books released last week it was ridiculous. Scalped #55 and Punisher Max #21 were masterpieces and truly shining examples of the medium. Sacrifice #2 was wonderful and I really think I liked the second issue more than the first. But that was last week, lets talk about this week. Batman #5 will be at the top of my read pile Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo are knocking it out of the park and giving us the best Batman we a have had in years. It's really hard finding new ways to express the awesomeness of these creators and what they are bringing to the character. Brian Azzarello is doing something truly wonderful with Wonder Woman. Cliff Chiang is not drawing this issue but the preview art looks like it fits very well with Chiang's style. In terms of Marvel I CAN NOT wait to read this week's issue of Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man... why??? Well on top of this being the best book Bendis has written in ages we are also getting treated to some beautiful art from Chris Samnee who is filling in on this month's issue. We also get part two of Mark Waid's Spider-Man/Daredevil crossover in Daredevil #8. Waid did a stellar job in last week's Amazing Spider-Man perfectly capturing the friendship and banter of Matt Murdock and Peter Parker. Last but not least I'm am hoping Mark Millar will stick the landing with Superior #7 this is the first time in a long time I can see Millar putting some heart into his work and I hope that he doesn't do the typical last page f-you to his readers. But when it comes to Millar who knows. Okay so what are you guys most looking forward to picking up this week?

DC
Batman #5 Combo Pack
Nightwing #5
Red Hood and The Outlaws #5
Wonder Woman #5

Marvel
Amazing Spider-Man #678
Avenging Spider-Man #3
Daredevil #8
Invincible Iron Man #512
Superior #7
Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #6

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 1/09/12

2012-01-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, how is it going? Only one word is going to sum up this week...ouch. This is a massive week, I'm surprised we are getting a week this big, this early in the month. First up we get the second issue of Sam Humphries and Dalton Rose's Sacrifice. My favorite writer in comics, Jason Aaron has five books out this week...FIVE!!! I'm thrilled, but my wallet's crying. Top of my read pile will be Scalped #55 and Punisher Max #21, both of which I have no problem using the word Masterpiece to describe. Another favorite writer of the site Josh Fialkov has two books this week with Last of The Greats and he is starting his run on Doctor Who which I am very excited to check out. And yes you read it right Scarlet Spider #1 is on my pull list. I have been a fan of the hoodied hero since he first made his appearance launching the Clone Saga, heck he is what got me to read Spider-Man, and even though it is not Ben Reilly under the mask I'm really looking forward to reading Kaine's man on the run adventures. So now it's your turn, what are you looking forward to picking up this week?

Sacrifice

BOOM!

Operation Broken Wing #3

Dark Horse

Lobster Johnson The Burning Hand #1

Batgirl #5

Batman and Robin #5

Batwoman #5

Deathstroke #5

Green Lantern #5

Shade#4

Scalped #55

IDW

Doctor Who #13

IMAGE

Heart #3

Last of the Greats #4

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #677

Brilliant #2

Captain America #7

Incredible Hulk #4

Punisher Max #21

Scarlet Spider #1

Wolverine and the X-Men #4

Wolverine #300

Merry Wednesday!!! Foster #1

2012-01-08T23:04:00.000-08:00

Foster #1

Writer and Colorist: Brian Buccellato

Art: Noel Tuazon

"My Name is Eddie Foster. I'm an alcoholic. I'm thirty minutes sober."

This was the week of the crime genre mash-up comic. Brian Buccellato (The Flash) and Noel Tuazon's (Tumor) Foster along with Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips' Fatale are the perfect one two punch combination of crime/horror comics. Foster tells the story of Eddie Foster, a damaged veteran drowning his haunted past with booze.When he reluctantly takes in a young boy named Ben, Foster finds himself having to protect him from the hard-boiled world of Vintage City, where the monsters are both literal and metaphorical.
I really enjoyed the first issue, it's a very entertaining read which left me wanting more, in all the right ways. While writer Brian Buccellato gives us a solid introduction to our "hero" Foster, he smartly spends most of of the first issue setting the tone and building a very intriguing world. Seriously, the 1970's analog world of Vintage City is just cool.
I have been a fan of artist Noel Tuazon since I first saw his work on Tumor. His style can sometimes be a little loose, but here it works perfectly for the story. It just oozes the grim and gritty atmosphere I look for in my crime comics. With Foster, Tuazon's work has never looked better, this is due largely in part to the coloring, which was provided by writer Brian Buccellato, proving he is a jack-of-all trades.
I'm a huge fan of crime/noir comics, so this is a book that was really singing my song. I'm looking forward to further exploring Foster's world and I can't wait to see where we go in the second issue. Currently only available as a limited edition convention edition or through digital download, it will be available in wider release soon. If you can't wait, you can order your own copy of Foster #1 HERE.

T'Was The Night Before Wednesday 1/4/12

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!! I hope 2012 is turning out swimmingly for everyone. We are starting the year off with a very promising week. I really enjoyed the last issue of Hellraiser, even though I am not familiar with the mythology, I felt the impact it had on the mythology, and I am very intrigued to see where it goes from here. Action Comics is taking a strangely timed break from it's opening arc to tell us Superman's origin. I'm very excited to see Andy Kubert's art on the book and I'm happy that DC is expanding it's digital combo packs. Animal Man and Swamp Thing continue to be some of the strongest of the "New 52," particularly Swamp Thing. Image brings us the latest collaboration of Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips with Fatale which, if it is half as good as their last collaboration Criminal: Last of the Innocent, it will probably be one of the best books of 2012. Also heads up, if you live near Burbank California Ed Brubaker will be signing Fatale #1 at House of Secrets. I will be there so I hope to see you there. Matt Fraction and Terry Dodson gave us a good first issue of Defenders I'm hoping that the second issue finds it's feet. Rucka is writing an amazing crime book with the Punisher and to see him team with Michael Lark in an issue featuring Daredevil and this book is so sold the money is practically leaping out of my wallet. So there you have it 2012 is here and already running strong. So how about you guys, what books are you most excited about picking up?

Boom! Studios
Hellraiser #9

DC
Action Comics #5 Combo
Animal Man #5
Swamp Thing #5

Image
Fatale #1
Graveyard of Empires #3

Marvel
Avengers Academy #24
Avengers X-Sanction #2
Defenders #2
Punisher #7
Wolverine and the X-Men Alpha and Omega #1

Merry Wednesday!!! Punisher Max #20

2011-12-27T10:40:00.000-08:00

Punisher Max #20

Written By: Jason Aaron

Art By: Steve Dillon

"Please...Just let me die."

There were a lot of great books this week, Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man, Batman, Justice League, Daredevil, it was an incredibly strong week, but one book stood above the rest, that book was Punisher Max #20. It's a masterful example of intense and brutal character driven violence. It's plot mainly focuses on the viscous fight between Frank Castle and Elektra, two killers attacking each other without an iota of mercy. Aaron handles the violence in this series exceptionally well, as over the top as it can be, it has serious consequences and impact, it never feels glorified.
What I love about this issue, more than anything, is that even with all the blood, guts, and gore, what's really revealed, is Frank's character. Aaron's writing has always been so rich with characterization. Even more than Garth Ennis he is showing us who Frank really is. With his use of flashbacks Jason Aaron has done a brilliant job peeling back the layers of Frank Castle's broken psyche. He's broken. Frank knows he's a monster and he accepts it. But as much as a monster as Frank is I can't help but feel a level of empathy for him.
The book always has me feeling haunted with a tinge of sadness, it's a feeling that follows me long after I have put the book down.
Steve Dillon's artwork has never disappointed, particularly since he has teamed with Jason Aaron. His style grounds the series.
Frank Castle is an aging warrior who can see that his mission's objective is in sight. With only two more issues left all the players are moving into their final positions. I'm sad to see this series end. It's not going to be pretty and there will be many causalities but I know Aaron and Dillon are bringing us such a strong story that we will get something really special. I can't wait to seeing this series collected in a beautiful hardcover omnibus that will look fantastic on my bookshelf.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 12/28/11

2011-12-26T22:58:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys. I hope you all had a very happy holiday. As we wrap out the year with the final new comic Wednesday of 2011 we are fortunate enough to have a strong week. So what am I picking up this week? First things first All-Star Western #4. Palmiotti, Gray, and Moritat have yet to disappoint. It 's one book you really feel like they push to give you your extra dollars worth of content. Aquaman and Flash are an incredible amount of superhero fun. Manapul and Buccellato are really trying to define Barry and make him as interesting as he should be and I feel they are succeeding. Josh Fialkov has been knocking it out of the park with I,Vampire and I don't see him letting up any time soon. I love watching what he is bringing to the vampire mythology and Andrew and Mary's relationship is just so damn compelling. It will be interesting to see how the book is going to play now that it is entrenching itself deeper into the DC Universe. Now I will not lie, Witch Doctor: Resuscitation One Shot is going to be an in the shop call. I have really enjoyed the issues I have read of this book and I really want to pick up the trade. Marvel is giving us the Captain America hat trick with THREE new issues hitting stands this week. I am personally most looking forward to issue six because it is illustrated by the amazing Alan Davis. Well there we have it guys I hope you all have a very Happy New Year. Thank you all for taking the time to check out and converse on the Comic Panelist, it has been such a pleasure talking with you all and I look forward to keeping that conversation going in 2012. Now lets end the year right, you know the drill. What are you most excited about picking up this week???

DC
All Star Western #4
Aquaman #4
Flash #4
I, Vampire #4
Superman #4
Uncharted #2

IMAGE
Witch Doctor: Resuscitation One Shot

Marvel
Avengers: Children's Crusade #8
Captain America #5
Captain America #6
Captain America And Bucky #625
Kick-Ass #6

Merry Wednesday!!! Best of 2011

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey there everyone. Last year I did a Merry Wednesday!!! Best Of 2010 and I had a lot of fun with it. It's nice to go back and really think about all the great comics you read over the past year. When compiling the list the first thing I thought was, "Man did I read a lot of comics this year." Second thought was "2011 been a great year for comics." There were some very tough decisions made while compiling this list. This is in no particular order. Originally it was going to be a straight up "Top Ten List" but seriously I felt incredibly guilty leaving some these books off and since this is my blog and my list I said to heck with it and included all who I felt deserved recognition.

Green River Killer: A True Detective Story

Writer: Jeff Jensen

Art By: Jonathan Case

I really enjoyed this book. Green River Killer is part memoir, part mystery, part twenty year countdown to a conversation. It's the story of Detective Tom Jensen. Jensen was a part of the police task force who tracked down and eventually caught the notorious serial killer, Gary Ridgeway, also known as the Green River Killer. After his arrest Ridgeway was interviewed by Jensen and police over 188 days as part of a controversial plea agreement. It is here where Jensen finally gets to know the man he has hunted and where the book is most compelling.You can read my full review HERE.

Halcyon

Writers: Marc Guggenheim and Tara Butters

Artist: Ryan Bodenheim

I initially gave up on Halcyon after the first issue and boy was that a mistake. I heard a lot great things about it once it was collected so I gave it a second chance. It poses the question,"What happens when the good guys win?" It's a big fun superhero story that even though you can see that the characters are analogues for more familiar heroes this feels surprisingly fresh. Ryan Bodenheim detailed pencils are beautiful and oh man it has a great ending. I hope that creative team feels compelled to visit this world again. I know I do.

Criminal: Last of the Innocent

Writer: Ed Brubaker

Art By: Sean Phillips

It's Archie meets Double Indemnity. Brubaker and Phillips continue to use the medium of comics brilliantly to give a twisted tale of murder. Brubaker's is at the top of his game and gives us perhaps the strongest volume of Criminal yet. His partner in crime (couldn't resist that one) Sean Phillips is truly operating on a whole other level, his juxtaposition of art styles is gorgeous and considering his past work that truly tells you something.

Habibi

By: Craig Thompson

At 672 pages Habibi is truly an artistic accomplishment that really needs to be experienced. Using elements of Islam and Christianity Habibi tells the story of Dodola and Zam, who are two slave children who lives and love intertwine in this timeless fable. It's a beautiful and heartbreaking piece of literature unlike any comic I have ever read.

Batman: The Black Mirror

Writer: Scott Snyder

Art By: Jock and Francessco Francavilla

Since he has taken over the character of Batman Scott Snyder has brought the perfect tone to the character, it doesn't matter whether it's Dick Grayson or Bruce Wayne in the cape and cowl Snyder just gets it. In "The Black Mirror" you get the all of Snyder Jock and Francavilla's run on Detective Comics. In the story Snyder brings the detective back to Gotham City, restoring balance to the Batman franchise. Where Grant Morrison gave us the super hero, ultimate human version of Batman, Snyder has given us the Batman based in mystery/crime/noir that has always been my personal favorite. With Dick Grayson behind the cape and cowl, we get a Batman who, as smart as he is, he is not as strong a detective as Bruce Wayne or Tim Drake. So it's refreshing to watch a Batman who will have to work to figure things out. It brings a Sherlock Holmes vibe to it that I really enjoy. All in all Snyder has a great handle on Dick Grayson, the voice he uses for his inner monologue is familiar but new and has just enough edge. He also incorporates some elements from Gotham Central and Batman: Year One that I really appreciated. Jock and Francesco Francavilla's art is beautiful and atmospheric. After you nerd out watching The Dark Knight Rises trailer and are in the mood for a great Batman story pick this up.

Echoes

Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov.

Art By: Rahsan Ekedal

Echoes tells the story of Brian Cohn, Brian has inherited many things from his father including his paranoid schizophrenia with which he has worked hard to gain control of. And in his father's final moments Brian inherits one last thing, a box containing his father's darkest secret. Echoes is no stranger to praise on Comic Panelist. It's a fantastic series that is a thrilling and suspenseful read. Effectively using all the conventions of comic book storytelling and a few cinematic conventions (particularly their use of sound effects) to tell a smart horror/noir thriller. Also I want to give a shout out to Fialkov's other titles I, Vampire (one of the best of the "New 52") and Last of the Greats (a superhero book that anything could happen and does).

Ivy

By: Sarah Oleksyk

Writer and artist Sarah Oleksyk gives us is a brutally honest and emotional look at adolescence. Ivy tells the tale of a teenage girl living in a small Maine town. She wants nothing more than to escape so that she can pursue her aspirations to go to art school. Her single mother has other ideas and is intent on her going to college to pursue a more stable career in business. It's a story we have seen before but rarely have we seen it done so well.You can read my full review HERE.

Daytripper

By: Fabio Moon & Gabriel Ba

Beautiful, heartbreaking, and life affirming. Daytripper is masterfully told story. It's the first comic I ever got my parents to buy on their own that wasn't for me. You can read my full review HERE.

Punisher MAX: Frank

Writer: Jason Aaron

Artist: Steve Dillon

Since taking Jason Aaron has taken over Punisher Max it has been outstanding but this volume is a cut above the rest. While it is volume 3 in the series it could stand alone. The story is, in a word, haunting. After Frank Castle's brutal battle with Bullseye, a battle that has left him broken literally and metaphorically, Frank lies alone in prison and the underworld is circling. "Frank" is the story of Frank Castle coming to terms with the monster he really is. I really don't even think of this as a Punisher story, it's an unforgiving tale of a veteran returning home from a war he wasn't necessarily ready to leave. Jason Aaron has done an amazing job instilling the book with a lot of rich characterization. I have read this volume several times and it really sticks with you long after you have put it down.

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

Artist: Sarah Pichelli

Hello Miles Morales. It's very nice to meet you.While this entire year of Ultimate Spider-Man has been phenomenal. I really want to focus on the Miles Morales first arc. Brian Michael Bendis has done a phenomenal job giving a us a fully formed cast that is just so likable. I immediately felt a connection to Miles Morales, and the banter between Miles and his best friend Ganke is some of the sharpest dialogue Bendis has written in ages. He is a better writer when he is writing a smaller ensemble. He brought the A-game that he has consistently brought to Daredevil and Ultimate Spider-Man. Sara Pichelli's art work is beautiful, her line work is so clean and effective. I thought this was an incredibly strong debut arc and I can not wait for the second.

Daredevil

Writer: Mark Waid

Artist: Paolo Rivera and Marcos Martin

When I read Daredevil #1 the first thing I thought was, " It's good to have you back Matt, I've missed you. " See Matt Murdock is my favorite character. After the awful Shadowland and boring Daredevil Reborn I was seriously craving a quality Daredevil story, which Waid, Rivera, and Martin deliver in spades. I've always been a fan of the darker Daredevil stories, the ones that push Matt to the very edge. I was uncertain how Waid's lighter approach would work with the character but he clearly gets Matt Murdock. The voice he brings to Matt is familiar but new. Matt knows he went to far and is now trying to embrace some joy in his life, and that is something I can relate to.

I'm not sure what more can be said about Rivera and Martin's artwork that has not been said before. It is some of the best of both their careers.

Daredevil is a shining example of the medium and the superhero genre. This is just a perfectly executed, well constructed comic; from the script, to the art (pencils and layouts), to the coloring, it all just works in perfect harmony. If you want a lesson in what makes a great comic look no further than Daredevil. It's superhero comics at their finest.

Well there you have it. This was the best of the best of 2011. Onward and upward to 2012. If it is anywhere near as good as this year we are in for something really special. Now it's your turn. I look forward to reading your comments and reactions. Let me know what would be on your list.

Merry Wednesday!!! Sacrifice #1

2011-12-20T13:54:00.000-08:00

Sacrifice #1

Written By: Sam Humphries

Art By: Dalton Rose

Colorist: Pete Toms

This has been quite the year for writer Sam Humphries, first he was named one of the "Five Writers to Watch in 2011" by Wizard Magazine. Then in the summer he set the comic blogosphere on fire with his self-published sci-fi one-shot of awesome insanity, Our Love is Real. Then he ends the year by giving us his second self-published work, a mini-series entitled, Sacrifice.Then he is revealed to be the upcoming writer for Marvel's John Carter: The Gods of Mars with Ramon Perez and finally Sam tops it all off by being named one of "The Top 5 Writers to Watch in 2012" by iFanboy (Congrats as well to Josh Fialkov. Well deserved my friend). Good Lord I'm exhausted just typing all of this.

Sacrifice tells the story of a young man named Hector as he is transported 762 years into the past, to the visceral time of the Aztecs. Or is he??? Hector is epileptic and this could all be in his mind.

The first issue is a great read and it's a book you want to go back and read again. While we have seen the story of modern men transported to the past before we have not ever really seen them taken to the time of the Aztecs which is a rich and exciting civilization to explore. Add to that, the Aztecs are in the middle of a religious conflict and there is the ever impending doom of the Spaniards and we are given some very high stakes from page one. I like that Humphries doesn't waste a second, and even with some of the more psychedelic elements the issue still keeps it's focus without losing it's audience. Dalton Rose's Mike Allred-esque pencils show a lot of potential, the two page spread of Hector's vision during his seizure is really a beautiful work of art, and good lord Pete Toms colors are absolutely stunning and really elevate the art to something special.
Sacrifice #1 is a book you should read if you want to be ahead of the times. Sam Humphries is a name that is going to be around comics for a years to come and you are definitely going to want to read this very talented writer now before everyone else gets to tell you "told you so." How do you obtain a copy of this already sold out book. Excellent question, you can find out all the venues carrying the book HERE at it's official site.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 12/20/11

2011-12-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, as an early Christmas present we get the biggest and best week of new releases. Batman and Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man alone would make it a great week. But when you throw in Daredevil Wonder Woman, Invincible Iron Man, Justice League and Punisher Max and it's like Diamond printed my Christmas list. So let's hear it what are you guys looking forward to picking up? Oh and one last thing... I hope you guys have a wonder holiday with your family and friends.

Batman #4

Batman Incorporated: Leviathan Strikes

Justice League #5 Combo

Nightwing #4

Red Hood and the Outlaws #4

Wonder Woman #4

IMAGE

Invincible #86

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #676

Daredevil #7

Incredible Hulk #3

Invincible Iron Man #511

Punisher Max #20

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #5

Wolverine and the X-Men #3

Get Ready to Nerd Out!!! Official The Dark Knight Rises Trailer!!!

2011-12-19T12:23:00.000-08:00

Okay Guys to quote the Joker, "Heeeere weee go." This morning Apple officially posted the trailer to The Dark Knight Rises HERE. I was fortunate enough to see it this past weekend with my screening of Mission Imposible: Ghost Protocol. It was great, I've never seen that many people applaud a trailer.... outside of Comic Con's Hall H. Like the Prologue (You can read my thoughts on the IMAX Prologue HERE) Nolan is playing his cards very close to his chest. This teaser reveals very little story but the tone and the escalation of stakes are very clear. Here are some of my quick thoughts. Michael Caine's line about not protecting Bruce is heartbreaking. Seeing Bruce with a cane.... very intriguing. Commissioner Gordon being forced into retirement...very Dark Knight Returns and I'm okay with that. Bane's voice is much easier to understand here than it was during the Prologue and that line "When Gotham is in ashes, you have my permission to die." just EPIC. Anne Hathaway's Selena Kyle looks very much in control, as she should be. Last but not least, the shot of Bane and Batman about to throw down gave me chills. So enough of me talking about it, what do you guys think???

Friday Means It's Time For The Impact.

2011-12-16T17:11:00.000-08:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Hey everybody, as you head into the weekend catch up with all the comic news in this week's installment of The Impact. Check it out HERE.

Spoilers!!! Merry Wednesday Motion!!! The Dark Knight Rises Prologue Spoilers!!!

2011-12-14T13:51:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, so last night I was fortunate enough to see an advanced screening of the prologue to The Dark Knight Rises. As I waited in the brisk December air outside the AMC Loews Theater at Universal City Walk I had a great time nerding out with my geek brethren. Like most nerd events I had arrived at the theater hours in advance to wait in line. Fortunately the Loews was nice enough to let us wait inside the theater an hour before the screening started. The screening consisted of the opening six-minutes of the movie followed by a quick montage of shots from later in the film. So...How was it??? Was it worth the wait??? Yes. In a word it was EPIC!!!

I want to give you a blow by blow description but it has been covered to death by all the major sites for the past week so if you wanted to know, chances are you have already read about it. That said, here are some of my thoughts and impressions. In the footage we got very quick glimpses of Batman, Catwoman (the costume looks great), and Joesph Gordon Levitt's character John Blake. The bulk of the sequence serves primarily as an introduction to Bane and sets the tone and scope of the coming conflict.

First things first, this is really something you need to experience on an IMAX screen. If you can see it, see it in the theater, don't watch a pirated version on YouTube, you will only be cheating yourself. Seeing it projected in IMAX truly elevates an already impressive sequence to a whole other level.

Tom Hardy is a brilliant actor and after seeing the physicality he brought to his role in Warrior I'm convinced he is the right man to play Bane. Every move he makes has an efficient and deliberate brutality to it. Now there has been some criticism about his voice and it's warranted. Hardy brings an unsettling quality to his dialect which sounds very cool when you can understand him, but since his mouth and nose are covered I had a hard time making out some of his dialogue and I was paying close attention since I had heard the earlier criticism. Hopefully they will be able to convince Chris Nolan that some of Bane's lines should be ADR'ed and sweetened.

While I'm sure it is not the final version I loved the score, it was bombastic and driving, it used some elements of the chanting heard in the previous teaser which I thought was awesome.

Everything I have seen for this movie continues to emphasize the escalation of the stakes for Batman and Gotham City. In the first teaser released back in July the only brief shot we get of Batman is him staggering as Bane marches toward him. The latest poster shows Bane walking away from a shattered cowl and well, at the end of the prologue we see Bane holding the broken cowl. Couple this with the other shots we saw at the end of the prologue and it further illustrates that this is the biggest challenge Batman has faced in all of his celluloid adventures, (yes even bigger than Adam West trying to get rid of that bomb on the pier).

I hope you guys check it out. I look forward to hearing your reactions. Hopefully we will have a trailer sometime this Friday, although I have a feeling it will be closer to Monday. The Dark Knight Rises opens in theaters July 20th 2012.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 12/14/11

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys. As we hit mid-December we are treated to a strong week of new books. First up, be sure to check out Sacrifice, the latest from Our Love Is Real writer Sam Humphries. It is a fresh take on time travel and unlike anything you have seen before. Don't Miss it!!! Issue one of Operation Broken Wings was a very engaging espionage story that I look forward to continuing.DC is giving us a heavy Batbook week. While it isn't knocking my socks off Batman and Robin has been a fun book, I like that they are finally showing Bruce trying to be Damian's father, not just his mentor. Batwoman continues to have some of the best art of any book on the shelves that sophisticates its ever improving storytelling. Green Lantern is the best it has been since Blackest Night and I hope it maintains it's quality level. Marvel has a strong week with two of it's strongest books Avengers Academy and Uncanny X-Force. I'm going to check out Avengers: X-Sanction more for Ed McGuinness than anything else. So how about you guys, what are you looking forward to picking up this week???

Self Published

Sacrifice

BOOM! Studios

Operation Broken Wings #2

Batgirl #4

Batman and Robin #4

Batwoman #4

Deathstroke #4

Green Lantern #4

The Shade #3

Marvel

Avengers Academy #23

Avengers: X-Sanction #1

Uncanny X-Force #18

The Impact December 3rd-December 10th

2011-12-10T13:35:00.001-08:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Hey Guys, here is the latest installment of The Impact. This week I talk about the passing of Jerry Robinson, Bendis talking about his upcoming departure from The Avengers and the latest creator changes for DC's "New 52." All of this and more. Check it out and let me know what you think.

New Posters For the Amazing Spider-Man and The Dark Knight Rises

2011-12-10T13:25:00.001-08:00

Courtesy of SuperHeroHype. Check out the latest posters for The Amazing Spider-Man and The Dark Knight Rises, two of the most eagerly anticipated movies of 2012. I like the design sense for the Spider-Man poster, it evokes the silhouette teaser poster for Episode I (and I say that as a good thing, that poster was cool.) That said The Dark Knight Rises poster is phenomenal. The poster is character driven and sets the stakes and tone of the movie. What do you guys think??? The Amazing Spider-Man opens July 3rd 2012. The Dark Knight Rises opens July 20th 2012.

Avengers vs. X-Men. Marvel Announces It's Next Event.

2011-12-06T13:03:00.001-08:00

Today Marvel announced its next major event, Avengers vs. X-Men. Launching in April 2012 the event will be a twelve-issue series that will revolve around the heroes learning that the Phoenix force has returned and the X-Men and Avengers come into conflict over how to protect Hope Summers. The event has all of Marvel's top talent behind it with Brian Bendis, Matt Fraction, Jason Aaron, Ed Brubaker, and Jonathan Hickman alternating every issue. The event will be illustrated in four-issue acts by John Romita Jr., Oliver Coipel and Adam Kubert.

The series will ship bi-weekly, starting in April with a prologue illustrated by Frank Cho shipping in March. Similar to Avenging Spider-Man customers that purchase a print copy will also receive a digital download code. Stay tuned as Marvel promises to release more information tomorrow during a press conference at 3 PM EST.

After just wrapping up their latest event Fear Itself it appears as though Marvel is not slowing down for a second. It's curious to see how fans will react to another massive twelve-issue commitment so soon after a major event. What do you guys think???

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 12/7/11

2011-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys. I can't believe December is already here, 2011 is just flying by and it doesn't feel like it is slowing down anytime soon. This is a very strong week in new releases. Action Comics, Animal Man and Swamp Thing are some of the "New 52's" finest. Blair Butler and Kevin Mellon really impressed me with the first issue of Heart and I am definitely going to see it through to the end. And Josh Fialkov continues to turn the superhero genre on it's head with his series Last of the Greats and I am hearing that this issue is particularly crazy. After the bloated Fear Itself my writer/reader relationship with Matt Fraction was starting to strain, (that said I hold editorial mainly responsible for a lot of FI's short comings), but starting with the fantastic last issue of Invincible Iron Man we are getting back on track. I am hoping that Defenders #1 will be a great palette cleanser that will get things back to normal. These are all of Fraction's handpicked team members in a story that sounds like pure Fraction madness. Count me in. Rucka is writing a hell of a crime book with his Punisher run, between this and Jason Aaron on Punisher MAX it has never been a better time to be a fan of Frank Castle. Hellraiser #8 looks like it is going to be really good and while it is not my particular wheelhouse I am enjoying the story. The one trade paperback I might treat myself to this week is Criminal: The Last of the Innocent. It what is essentially Archie meets Double Indemnity Brubaker and Phillips were in top form. This is by far one of the best books I read this year. If you missed it in single issue form be sure to pick it up. Truly crime fiction at it's finest. So how about you guys, what are you looking forward to picking up this week?

BOOM! Studios

Hellraiser #8

Action Comics #4

Animal Man #4

Swamp Thing #4

IMAGE

Heart #2

Last of the Greats #3

Marvel

Avenging Spider-Man #2

Defenders #1

Punisher #6

The Impact November 28th- December 2nd

2011-12-02T15:22:00.001-08:00

Hey everybody, after a week long hiatus here is the latest installment of The Impact. This week I tell you just how much Nicholas Cage's copy of Action Comics #1 went for at auction. What books you can pick up on Free Comic Book Day and, where you can see the prologue to The Dark Knight Rises??? All of this and more, check it out.

T'Was The Night Before Wednesday 11/29/11

2011-11-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

Since DC has been sticking to it's four week release schedule and we have an extra week this month this is a remarkably light week and I am totally okay with that. Uncharted is my favorite video game series so I have to check out the comic, I really hope it's good. I really wish someone would create comic's own Indiana Jones/ Nathan Drake to give us a treasure hunter adventure comic. But that's just me. I am also looking forward to Daredevil #6, but I am a little sad that this is Marcos Martin's last issue. With the week being so light I may check out a new creator owned project. How about you guys, what are you looking forward to picking up? Do you think you might try something new, if so, what???

Uncharted #1

Marvel

Daredevil #6

Wolverine #19

T'Was The Night Before Wednesday 11/23/11

2011-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, still out of town this week. Thank you so much for your patience and understanding as the number of entries has taken a temporary hiatus. I will be back in the thick of things soon so stay tuned. This is a very nice week of new comics two things you should look at picking up that are not on my list are Batman: The Black Mirror HC which collects all of Scott Snyder, Jock, and Francesco Francavilla's brilliant run on Detective Comics and Parker: The Martini Edition IDW has made a great looking book even better looking. Both of these are available on Thwipster for 46% off, which is a fantastic deal. In terms of floppies Aquaman and Flash are just so much fun. I, Vampire is a fantastic book that is incredibly character driven and I am loving it Josh Fialkov is just killing it on this book. I'm enjoying Superman and I can not wait to see Nicola Scott's pencils. This week's Scalped gets us that much closer to it's final issue, which is issue sixty, something I am both anticipating and dreading. Marvel wants to give us a show us a little more of Bucky's time as the Winter Soldier in Captain America and Bucky #624 and I am always down for that. I hope Wolverine and the X-Men #2 is as much fun as the first issue and Kapow Guiness World Record Special #1 I am just excited to see a 24 hour shoot out with some of comics top talent. It will be and interesting experiment to say the least. Well that is all for me, how about you guys, what are you picking up this week? Oh one last thing. I hope everyone has wonderful and safe Thanksgiving holiday with their families. Take care everyone.

DC
All Star Western #3
Aquaman #3
Flash #3
I, Vampire #3
Superman #3
Scalped #54

IMAGE
Invincible #85

Marvel
Captain America and Bucky #624
Fantastic Four #600
Invincible Iron Man #510
Kapow Guiness World Record Special #1
Wolverine and the X-Men #2

T'Was The Night Before Wednesday 11/16/11

2011-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone. Due to a death in the family updates will be infrequent for the next two weeks. I appreciate your patience and keep checking the site as I will do what I can.
There are some good books this week that I hope you check out. I am loving Batman, Scott Snyder is just doing a phenomenal job with the character. Justice League is improving as more characters are introduced and man is Jim Lee drawing a great looking book. I love the voice Kyle Higgins is bringing to Dick Grayson in Nightwing and Eddy Barrows' pencils are really stepping his game up. Okay I realize it is a surprise to see Red Hood and the Outlaws on my list. I hated the first issue and I stick by that opinion, with issue two, I read it and while still very flawed I did have a lot of fun with it. I am going to give the third issue a shot. Wonder Woman is one of DC's finest books of the "New 52" I love the new take and designs of the Amazons and Paradise Island. Marvel is not slouching either this week Avengers Academy's new direction is very exciting. I am very happy for Matt Fraction to get Iron Man away from Fear Itself and this looks like this is the issue for that to finally happen. Last but not least Greg Rucka's writing a great crime book in the Marvel Universe with his run on the Punisher. So what are you guys most looking forward to picking up?

DC

Batman #3

Justice League #3 Digital Combo

Nightwing #3

Red Hood and the Outlaws #3

Wonder Woman #3

SCALPED VOL 8 TPB

MARVEL

Avengers Academy #22

Captain America #4

Fear Itself #7.3

Incredible Hulk #2

Punisher #5

What's New in the Comic World? Find Out in This Week's Installment of The Impact.

2011-11-11T18:06:00.001-08:00

Hey Guys. It's another week that means another installment of The Impact. This week I talk about Marvel expanding it's digital download code initiative, what characters will be featured in the next arc of DC Presents, and what two Marvel mini-series were canceled before they were ever published. All of this and more.

Talking Comics with Simon and Sheldon in this week's Pick of the Week.

2011-11-09T12:40:00.000-08:00

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Hey Guys. This week Simon, Sheldon and I talk about some of our favorite comics of the week in this latest installment of Pick of the Week. Some of the books talked about on the show are Betrayal of the Planet of the Apes, Action Comics, Swamp Thing, Animal Man and many more. Check it out and enjoy.

Merry Wednesday!!! Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #4

2011-11-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #4

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

Artist: Sara Pichelli

'Why did he become Spider-Man?"

I can say without any reservation that I absolutely love this book. This issue picks up right where the last one left off with Miles and Ganke learning that Spider-Man has been shot. Miles leaps into action wanting to help but he arrives too late and Peter is dead. Miles feels a very guilty over this, he feels like if he had acted he could have helped and that Peter would still be alive. Making Peter Parker Miles' Uncle Ben is a really interesting choice that I really like. Miles has two brief encounters with Gwen that are very tactful and well done but in no way feel forced. I wasn't sure how he was going to do it but Bendis has does a fantastic job interweaving Peter and Miles time lines so that it is practically seamless. (I hope when this first arc is collected that Marvel includes Miles first battle with the Kangaroo featured in Ultimate Fallout #4.) I'm really enjoying the friendship between Miles and Ganke, which is the core of the book. It reminds me a lot of Matt Murdock and Foggy Nelson, my favorite friendship in comics. Very quickly he has endeared Miles and Ganke to myself and many other comic readers. Bendis is bringing his "A" game to this book with each issue being more enjoyable than the last. Sara Pichelli's artwork continues to amaze. I just love it's fluidity and expressive nature. Hands down this is the best comic I have read this week and the series as a whole is one of the best being published today. If you are not reading this book do yourself a favor and treat yourself and check it out.

T'was the Night Before Wednesday 11/9/11

2011-11-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

This looks to be a very solid week. Batgirl #3 has me really looking forward to seeing Barbra Gordon and Dick Grayson meet for the first time since the DC Relaunch. Batwoman is one of the most beautiful books on the shelves today and JH Williams and William Haden Blackman are delivering a really solid story. I have to admit the preview for the Avenging Spider-Man #1 looks like a lot of fun, and they finally got Joe Mad a decent colorist. The big expenditure of the week is Marvel Point One, one-shot which is $5.99. Grrrr. But I think the two books I am most looking forward to are Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #4 and Punisher Max #19. Brian Michael Bendis and Jason Aaron are both writing incredibly character driven stories that I am enjoying immensely. And Sara Pichelli is killing it on Ultimate Spider-Man's art. So how about you guys, what books are you looking forward to picking up?

Boom! Studios

Hellraiser #7

Batgirl #3

Batwoman #3

Deathstroke #3

Green Lantern #3

Marvel

Avenging Spider-Man #1

Fear Itself #7.2

Magneto: Not A Hero #1

Point One #1

Punisher Max #19

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #4

Uncanny X-Force #17

Wolverine #19

The Impact October 30th-November 5th 2011

2011-11-04T22:08:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, in this week's installment of The Impact, I talk about the return of the Winter Soldier. Marvel stepping up it's Day and Date distribution, and which New 52 book is Nicola Scott jumping on to. All of this and more check it out.

Talking Comics in This Week's Episode of Pick of The Week.

2011-11-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

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Hey Everyone. Here is this week's episode of Pick of the Week. I had the pick and in a week as good as last week was there was a lot of competition. After much debate the choice was clear, Flash # 2 by Brian Buccellato and Francis Manapul. Check it out as Sheldon, Simon, and I talk about our favorite books of the week. Hope you enjoy.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 11/2/11

2011-11-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

So it's the first week of the month and thankfully a light one. Now I can justify picking up Uncharted 3. What am I looking forward to picking up? Action Comics #3 is going to be at the top of my pile. Grant Morrison has been doing an amazing job revitalizing Superman and it looks like this issue we will start to get a sense of what life on Krypton was like and I can't wait. I am also really happy to be picking up Blair Butler's new book Heart, I have only recently started watching a bit of MMA but the story sounds promising and the art by Kevin Mellon looks great. Also be sure to pick up the second issue of Last of the Greats. I had a chance to read the book in advance and while I really liked the first issue this one this one is even better. Marvel is releasing Fear Itself # 7.1 and while there is no way I could be more over this lackluster event I am looking forward to seeing Ed Brubaker properly address Bucky's death. So there you go. What are you guys looking forward to picking up most???

Action Comics #3

Batwing #3

Animal Man #3

Swamp Thing #3

IMAGE

Heart #1

Last of the Greats #2

Witch Doctor #4

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #673

Avengers Academy #21

Fear Itself #7.1

Uncanny X-Men #1

Long Beach Comic Con 2011: A Friendly Chat with Joshua Hale Fialkov

2011-10-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hey guys. Long Beach Comic Con 2011 has come and gone and boy did I have a lot of fun. On Saturday I had the pleasure of talking to I,Vampire and Last of the Greats writer Joshua Hale Fialkov for my website brother-in-arms Comic Impact. In the brief interview we talk about what’s in store for both of his current on-going titles, Josh’s upcoming arc on IDW’s Doctor Who and we also touch on the writer’s workshop he taught with Mark Waid ( Daredevil, Irredeemable, Superman: Birthright) which I had the incredible good fortune of attending. So check it out and I hope you enjoy it.

The Impact October 22nd-29th 2011

2011-10-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

Another week, another installment of The Impact. This week we talk about Batman: Arkham City. AMC pick up another season of The Walking Dead and a story from last week is confirmed. All of this and more...Check it out.

Did You Catch All That? October Edition

2011-10-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys. As you all know I am apart of the Comic Impact crew and here is the October Edition of their monthly recap show Did You Catch All That? For those of you strictly focused on seeing my bright and shining face you may want to focus on the following segments.

00:07:41 - Events

Marvel’s Fear Itself #7 by Matt Fraction

00:9:14 - Comics on Film

The Avengers trailer
Captain America the first avenger Blu-Ray
First 6 mins the dark kinght rises
Punisher comes to TV
Justice League Doom trailer
Mark Hamill joker news

00:14:54 Matt has issues

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #3 by Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli

For those of you wanting to see me not be able to complete a sentence you may want to check out the following blooper reel.

Talking Comics on this week's Pick Of the Week.

2011-10-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

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Hey Guys, be sure to check out this week's installment of Pick of the Week featuring Simon, Sheldon, and myself, as we talk about our favorite books.

Brubaker to Adapt Coward For the Big Screen. David Slade to Direct

2011-10-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of Variety. Today news broke that Ed Brubaker will be adapting the big screen his noir/crime comic Coward for Jamie Patricof's Hunting Lane Films. Coward is the first volume of the amazing comic series, Criminal. Director David Slade is set to direct. Slade is also set to direct Fox's Daredevil reboot it is not know if that will effect that projects schedule. I love that Brubaker is getting to adapt his own work. Just last month I said that Drive, starring Ryan Gosling, would be the closest we would get to a Criminal movie, I could not be happier to be proven wrong. I would very much like it for Slade and Brubaker to have such a great working relationship that Slade brings Brubaker in to work on Daredevil. One can only hope.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 10/26/11

2011-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, so this week we get the traditional last week of the monthsuper week where everything comes out. I love this week, my wallet not so much.

From DC, All Star Western #2 by Jimmy Palmiotti, Justin Gray with art byMoritat. I loved the first issue. I thought Palmiotti and Gray set up a richmurder mystery with Jonah Hex and Amadeus Arkham. I was not familiar withMoritat before this but his sense of visual storytelling really impressed me.

Aquaman #2 by Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis. Aquaman has alwaysbeen cool. Johns and Reis just showed a lot of people what they were missing. Flash #2 Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato impressed thehell out of me with the first issue. Giving Barry Allen more personality thanwe have seen in ages. And good lord Manapul is really taking it to a wholeother level with his layouts.

Speaking of Flash I am also going to pick up the Flashpointhardcover by Geoff Johns and Andy Kubert. I had a lot of fun with this story. I, Vampire #2 by Josh Fialkov and Andrea Sorrentino. The firstissue was one of my favorites of the year and I don’t expect Josh Fialkov todisappoint with the second.

Marvel is without mercy this week as they release some of their strongest titles this week, including

Avengers Academy #20 by Christos Gage and Tom Raney. This isthe best book with Avengers in the title. Consistently exciting with compellingand unpredictable characters. Captain America and Buc #623 by Ed Brubaker, Marc Andreyko,and Chris Samnee. Samnee is firing on all cylinders hands down my favorite Capbook on the stands hands down. Daredevil #5 by Mark Waid and Marcos Martin. Speaking of bestthis is Marvel’s best book on the stands. But Ultimate Spider-Man is closing in fast.

Jason Aaron gets the hat trick this week with IncredibleHulk #1, Wolverine and the X-MenScalped #53. That alonemakes it a great week. Well there you go that’s only a fraction of what’s new thisweek. So how about you guys, What are you looking forward to picking up most? #1 and

All Star Western #2

Aquaman #2

Flash #2

Flashpoint HC

I, Vampire #2

Scalped #53

Superman #2

IMAGE

Gladstone's School For World Conquerors #6

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #672

Avengers Academy #20

Captain America and Bucky #623

Daredevil #5

Incredible Hulk #1

Spider-Island Cloak and Dagger #3

Wolverine and the X-Men #1

New This Week!!!

2011-10-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys. Here is my latest "New This Week" video from Comic Impact. This is where I tell you about some of the new books I'm picking up this week and get ready, there is a lot. Check it out, I hope you like it.

The Impact October 16th-21st

2011-10-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Another week that means another installment of The Impact. In this week's installment we learn that Marvel has laid off 11 employees. The Punisher comes to TV??? And when might we see the six-minute prologue to The Dark Knight Rises in IMAX??? All of this and more, check it out.

Mark Millar and Dave Gibbons Announce The Secret Service. Do You Want to Be the Supervillain?

2011-10-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of CBR.This week Mark Millar and Dave Gibbons announced their new project, The Secret Service. No story details were released at this time but ever the consummate salesman Millar promised an extensive interview and preview in the November issue of his magazine, Clint. As is his standard M.O. Millar is auctioning off the right to name the super villain of the book to raise money for charity. This time it is for his primary school St Bartholomew's Primary School Pantomime Fund. Matthew Vaughn has already purchased the film rights so this is a great chance to see your name on the big screen. Then again your name would be associated with whatever horrific acts said super villain will perpetrate, consider yourself warned. That said I like that Millar does this and I am sure the charities appreciate it as well. You can bid on the auction HERE. While Millar can be hit or miss with his creator owned projects Dave Gibbons involvement definitely has me intrigued. Stay tuned as we will keep you up to date as more information becomes available. The Secret Service will launch February 2012.

Merry Wednesday!!! Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #3

2011-10-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #3

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

Artist: Sara Pichelli

"There's already a Spider-Man and he seems to love it."

We open this issue as Miles and Ganke begin to explore and test Miles' powers, particularly his new found wall crawling ability. Deciding they need to find the spider that bit him and some answers they head to Miles, Uncle Aaron's apartment, who is apparently on the run. On their way home they come upon an apartment building that's on fire. It's here that Miles takes his first steps towards being a hero. After a moment of honest hesitation Miles rescues several of the building's tenants. I like Miles honest hesitation, by overcoming that hesitation he reveals the type of person he is. I am interested if tragedy will befall him before he fully accepts the mantle of Spider-Man or will it be a responsibility he accepts without a tragedy, because it is just who he is.

As Miles adjusts to his new powers he also is adjusting to starting a new school as we briefly meet Miles and Ganke's new roommate, Judge who is a welcome addition to an already great cast. We also finally see where this matches up in Peter Parker's arc as we learn he has just been shot.

This book really is Bendis at his best, this is Daredevil Bendis. We are three issues in and Bendis' dialogue is still razor sharp which allows this decompressed storytelling to work.While I have enjoyed the previous two issues immensely I'm glad to see that the pace is picking up.

Sara Pichelli continues her growth as an artist. I think drawing her art digitally has really elevated her style and cleaned up her already impressive line work. I also love how she really factors in a character's wardrobe. Every piece of clothing a character wears is an extension of their personality and I can not wait to see her draw the new red and black Spider-Man costume.

It's such a pleasure to see a series steadily improve as each issue is released. Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man is quickly becoming not just one of my favorite Marvel book but one of my favorite comics on the shelves today. If you are not reading it, you should be. I hope you guys check it out.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 10/19/11

2011-10-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hey guys. This is a very nice week in comics. DC is giving us Batman #2 where Scott Snyder will continue to school us in how to write Batman. After what feels like forever we will finally be getting Justice League #2 Jim Lee, Geoff Johns, Batman vs. Superman...Nuff said. Kyle Higgins continues to prove he has a great voice for Dick Grayson/Nightwing. Also, really looking forward to see where Wonder Woman is going. Don't forget you can also check out the animated adaptation of Batman: Year One which hit stores this Tuesday.

Marvel is giving us the first of many endings to Fear Itself. I'm really looking forward to reading Superior #6, I'm hoping Mark Millar does not pull a Mark Millar ending. Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man Death of Spider-Man was one of my favorite stories of the year and I look forward to rereading the hardcover collection. So how about you guys what are you looking forward to picking up most?

Batman #2

Birds of Prey #2

Justice League #2 Digital Combo Pack

Nightwing #2

Supergirl #2

Tiny Titans #45

Wonder Woman #2

Marvel

Avengers #18

Fear Itself #7

Invincible Iron Man #509

Superior #6

Wolverine #17

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man: Death of Spider-Man HC

New York Comic Con 2011

2011-10-17T17:35:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, Matt here. Today, I am going to talk about all the fun that broke out of New York Comic Con. No I was not there in person, unfortunately I merely got to experience through all the great reporting that came from the blogosphere.

There were some really exciting projects and announcements made throughout the weekend. This is far from all of the news that broke but this is by far my favorite.

Green Lantern Quick Hits

Courtesy of CBR and Comics Alliance. Some of the cool new to come out during the All Access: Green Lantern Panel included:

-The second arc in Green Lantern will be "The Secret of the Indigo Tribe," where we will finally learn their origins and true motivations.

-When a fan asked Geoff Johns his real opinion of the Green Lantern movie Johns responded, “I continue to root for it, I hope to get the character another film, and it will be live action, I guarantee it,”

-Johns also confirmed that there will be an upcoming event crossing over the Lantern books.

- Before leaving Johns announced that there is an Robot Chicken DC Comics special in the works.

-Last but not least check out the opening two minutes from the Green Lantern: The Animated Series. Courtesy of Heat Vision.

So all in all it looks like Sinestro is not getting rid of his GL ring anytime soon and that is fine with me I have been enjoying the new status quo. I am not sure how I feel about them attempting a Lantern based event so close to the start of the relaunch.

Justice League: Doom Trailer.
Courtesy of IGN. Here is the first trailer for the animated feature Justice League: Doom. Featuring an A+ cast of voices I originally gave my thoughts on the project here. Check it out.

The Curse of Shazam by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank to be featured back up story in Justice League. Batman: Earth One confirmed for summer 2012.

Courtesy of The Source. Well to all you Captain Marvel fans out there wondering if the Big Red Cheese had a place in the "New 52" the answer is yes. While very few details were released it was announced that Geoff Johns and Gary Frank will be collaborating on The Curse of Shazam which will serve as a back up adventure in upcoming issues of Justice League. Here is DC's best chance to give the character the spotlight. I really hope that Johns and Frank can finally be the ones to crack the nut that is Captain Marvel. While there have been some good stories with the character (Jeff Smith's Shazam: The Monster Society of Evil in particular) no one has really been able to maximize the character's potential. DC also confirmed what we learned a month ago from Amazon, Batman: Earth One will be out early this coming summer. This is a book I have been clamoring for since it was first announced I can't wait.

Superman: Earth One Vol 2. Cover.

Speaking of Earth One... at the Superman: All Access Panel, Earth One artist Shane Davis showed off the cover to the second volume. He also revealed that the villain will be a new Parasite and that he and writer J. Michael Straczynski hope to explore

Vertigo Goes Digital Day and Date. New Paul Cornell series Saucer Country.

Courtesy of Vertigo's official blog, Graphic Content. At the Vertigo panel it was announced that many of Vertigo's monthly books will be going digital day and date. I was surprised to see Jason Aaron's Scalped. I wonder if it's because the series is so close to it's conclusion. Hmm.... Anyway here is the breakdown of when each book will be available.

· SWEET TOOTH starting with issue #26 available now
· SPACEMAN the new mini-series by Brian Azzarello and artist Eduardo Risso will launch with issue #1 on sale Oct. 26. This exciting new series featuring award-winning talent will be available for a special price of $.99 – a first for digital pricing that makes this series a “can’t miss” event.
· THE UNWRITTEN beginning with #31 on sale Nov. 9
· iZOMBIE beginning with issue #19 on sale Nov. 16
· THE UNWRITTEN .5 issues beginning with #31.5 on sale Nov. 23
· FABLES beginning with the special holiday issue #112 on sale Dec. 21
· AMERICAN VAMPIRE beginning with issue #22 on sale Dec. 28
· HELLBLAZER beginning with issue #287 on sale Jan. 18

Also announced at the Vertigo Panel was a new series from Paul Cornell and Ryan Kelly. Saucer Country will take off this February. Here is the official synopsis,

When the Latina governor of New Mexico is abducted by aliens in the midst of her campaign for President of the United States, she learns that the people of Earth are in imminent danger of invasion. But proving that what she’s seen is true will be next to impossible in a world where “mainstream media” has a major agenda and every politician wants their fifteen minutes of fame.
With the help of her dedicated staff and a rag-tag collection of UFO “experts”, she’ll do what’s necessary to save the human race — which will mean digging deep into the American mythology of alien abduction, UFO sightings, shadow government agencies and conspiracy theory. But first she’s got to convince the world she’s not crazy…

This could be a lot of fun and I am really happy to see Cornell do a creator owned series.

Insert Obvious Phoenix Returns Pun Headline.

This weekend Marvel released another "It's Coming" teaser which only slightly elaborated on the last. But it is becoming very apparent that the Phoenix is returning to the Marvel Universe. The presently unnamed project looks to be massive considering it will come from ALL of their Architects, Jason Aaron, Brian Michael Bendis, Matt Fraction, Ed Brubaker, and Jonathan Hickman. Those artists Olivier Copiel, Adam Kubert and John Romita Jr. don't sound too shabby either. Note that the teaser says it and not she so this does not necessarily mean the Phoenix will be Jean Grey. I'm not sure I need the Phoenix to return but it looks like Marvel is putting their top men on the project.

The Scarlet Spider Returns.

Courtesy of CBR. This January Marvel will launch an all new ongoing series, Scarlet Spider. Coming out of Spider-Island the new series will be written by Christopher Yost with art by Ryan Stegman. Yost said the series starts with our hero on the run in Houston, Texas with the thesis questions of the series being,"can you be a hero when the whole world is against you?"

I for one am very excited for this. Growing up in the 90's the Scarlet Spider was what got me reading Spider-Man. I'm thinking that (SPOILERS: Since Kaine has been cured of being a Man-Spider he maybe the one who takes up the mantle of the Scarlet Spider, a man he hated more than anything. SPOILERS END) I think that is really full of a lot of rich story telling possibilities. Again that is just my theory and either way right or wrong I am going to be checking this series out.

Loeb and Bianchi Resurrect Sabertooth.

Going for the resurrection hat trick Marvel announced that sometime in 2012 Jeph Loeb and Simone Bianchi will return Victor Creed to the world of the living. It was this same creative team that decapitated Logan's nemesis back in 2003. Stay tuned for more details.

Spider-Man and Daredevil Crossover planned for January.

Courtesy of CBR. Also spinning out of the Amazing Spider-Man Panel was the news that coming this January, Spider-Man and Daredevil are teaming up. The two part story will take place in Amazing Spider-Man #677 and Daredevil #8 and will be written by Mark Waid with art by Emma Rios and Kano. It will also feature the return of the Black Cat to the Spider-Verse. Mark Waid Emma Rios on a story featuring Spider-Man and Daredevil... Sold!!!

Amazing Spider-Man Panel Quick Hits.

-Michael Lark is set to illustrate an issue of the Punisher. Anything featuring a reunion of one of Gotham Central's creative teams is a okay in my book.

-Writer Dan Slott teased the return of the Sinister Six and that t issue #676 will be just about the Six, Spider-Man will not appear at all.

-With the Lizard being the villain in The Amazing Spider-Man movie, expect him to appear in the comic in early 2012.

Ultimate Comics Reborn Panel Quick Hits:

-First up check out this gorgeous cover to Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #6. Nothing really to add this is just a great looking cover.

-Fans will see Miles don his first Spider-Man costume next month in issue #4.

Avengers News Assemble.

Marvel announces Avengers Assemble from Mark Bagley and Brian Michael Bendis.

Launching in March this new series from the Ultimate Spider-Man creative team will focus on the characters and team dynamic featured in the Avengers movie. While clearly a tie-in to the movie the series will be set in regular Marvel continuity. This book is in no way a surprise, but I can not pass up a Bendis and Bagley collaboration. I am also really glad to see that they are not necessarily holding new readers hands by placing it in continuity.

Storm is joining the Avengers.

Starting with Avengers #19 Ororo Monroe aka Storm is joining Earth's Mightiest Heroes.The issue by Brian Michael Bendis and Daniel Acuna hits stores in January. What do you guys think about that?

Rick Remender and Gabriel Hardman on Secret Avengers!!! SSSHHHHHH.

After Warren Ellis concludes his excellent run on Secret Avengers the baton will be passed to Uncanny X-Force and Venom writer Rick Remender and artist Gabriel Hardman. The team will also see some new additions to their line up including Venom, Hawkeye, The Human Torch, and Captain Britain. This is a fantastic choice Remender has done a great job with the covert X-Squad in Uncanny X-Force I can not wait to see what he does here. Hardman's art is top notch and I am glad to see he is getting the bump up to a more prominent book. Speaking of Rick Remender and Uncanny X-Force....

Age of Apocalypse to Return in Uncanny X-Force.

Spinning out of the "Dark Angel Saga" we will see a return of the alternate X-Dystopian timeline in a story written by David Lapham which we will see in the Point One, one shot coming out in November.

Marvel Comics brings in Dexter Jeff Lindsay to Pen Original Dexter Comic.

Courtesy of The Beat. At Saturday's Cup 'O Joe Panel Joe Quesada announced that novelist and Dexter creator Jeff Lindsay will be penning an original Dexter comic book series. Set in the novel's continuity the series will launch this March. As a huge fan of the TV show all I can say is sign me up.

Well there you go guys. New York Comic Con sounded like it was a real blast. I hope to be there in person sooner rather than later. So... what story or announcement has got you most excited?

Pick of the Week 10/12/11

2011-10-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

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Hey Guys. Here is an extra special, extra early edition of Pick of the Week. Check it out, this week we talk about Ultimate Spider-man #3, Green Lantern #2,Uncanny X-force #16, Batman and Robin #2, Punisher #4, Shade #1, Batwoman #2, Superboy #2 and more. Hope you enjoy.

The Impact October 10th-15th

2011-10-14T15:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys. Check out the latest installment of The Impact. I talk about DC's record breaking sales. Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips' latest collaboration...at Image Comics. And our first look at The Avengers action figures. All of this and more. Check it out and enjoy.

Comic Panelist Stops by the Weekly Comic Brew.

2011-10-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

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Last night I had the pleasure being a guest on the Weekly Comic Brew. The comic chat cast is hosted by Aaron Brewer, formally of the Meltcast (my favorite comic podcast). During the hour, we talk about the first month of DC's "The New 52." We breakdown what we loved, what we liked, and what just did not land with us. Check it out, hopefully this will not be the last time you see me on the show.

Talking Comics with Comic Impact in this Week's, Pick of the Week.

2011-10-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

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Hey guys, once again it’s time for Sheldon, Simon, and me to talk about our favorite books in this week’s, Pick of the Week. I start things off with Action Comics #2 which is another great chapter in Grant Morrison’s revitalization of Superman. Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire continue to impress, as Sheldon and Simon talk about the one-two punch of Swamp Thing #2 and Animal Man #2. While I found a lot to love, X-Men: Schism did not necessarily stick the landing and Simon talks about taking a break from most of the X-Universe. The excitement continues as the guys discuss and debate, Superior, Casanova, Thunderbolts, The Last of the Greats, Walking Dead and Chew. Sit back, relax, and enjoy. Episode #229 of Pick of the Week begins here.

Avengers Trailer!!!!!!

2011-10-11T07:41:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Apple. Alright here it is, our official first look at The Avengers. Take a moment to check it out....go on I'll wait. Did you watch it???? WASN'T THAT AMAZING!!! I loved the exchange between Steve Rogers and Tony Stark. It just looks so good!!! Heck I'm just so happy that I am watching an actual trailer for a live-action Avengers movie...that is directed by Joss Whedon. Sorry guys, you are getting completely unfiltered nerding out reaction. I'm going to go watch the trailer a few more times,I can't wait to talk more about it, I will catch you guys later. The Avengers hits theaters May 4th, 2012.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 10/12/11

2011-10-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys. Hope everyone had a great Columbus Day.Here is what I am picking up for the week of October the 12th.From DC Comics I'm really looking forward to Batwoman and Deathstroke. I'm happy to see James Robinson return to the Shade and this miniseries has a murders' row of top artistic talent. Who is Jake Ellis? has been a great mini-series and I am hoping it sticks the landing. From Marvel I'm counting the minutes to the latest issue of Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man. Bendis and Pichelli have been knocking it out of the park with this one. Punisher Max is a vigilante masterpiece, Jason Aaron is imbibing this series with such character and is truly showing us who Frank Castle really is.
I also want to give a special shout out to my friend, Chris Rosa, whose first issue as associate editor of Hellraiser hits stands, so be sure to check that out. Congrats Chris. So how about you guys, what are you looking forward to picking up most?

BOOM! Studios
Hellraiser #6

DC
Batgirl #2
Batman and Robin #2
Batwoman #2
Deathstroke #2
Demon Knights #2
Frankenstein Agent of SHADE #2
Green Lantern #2
Shade #1

IMAGE
Who is Jake Ellis? #5

MARVEL
Amazing Spider-Man #671
New Avengers #17
Punisher #4
Punisher Max #18
Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #3
Ultimate Comics: X-Men #2
Uncanny X-Force #16
X-Men: Regenesis #1

Andy Kubert Joins Action Comics For Two Issue Arc.

2011-10-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of The Source. Get ready guys, we are a week out of New York Comic Con and the announcements have already begun. Today news broke that Flashpoint artist Andy Kubert is joining Grant Morrison for a two issue arc of Action Comics. Kubert will be illustrating issues five and six, which will guest star the Legion of Superheroes and Krypto. And yes Rags Morales will return to Action after this arc. I'm really happy to see that DC Comics is keeping such a high standard for it's flagship titles, even for fill-ins.

The Impact October 2nd - October 9th.

2011-10-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

Here is this week's installment of The Impact. Check it out to see a wrap up of the news making it's way around the blogosphere.

Let's Talk Comics With the Latest Installment of Pick of the Week.

2011-10-05T10:01:00.000-07:00

video platform video management video solutions video player

Here is the latest installment of Comic Impact's "Pick of the Week." Listen as Sheldon, Simon, and I talk about the books of the week. Check it out.

New Avengers Stills Now in Hi-Res

2011-10-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

Nothing to add here. Here are the latest still from The Avengers and it is awesome. Also included are some hi-res versions of some previously released images. Word is making its way around the blogosphere we may see a trailer next week. Take that with a grain of salt but there is some logic behind the theory. It has been confirmed that there will be some exclusive footage unveiled at New York Comic Con. Needless to say I am ready to get a proper sneak peek at this movie. The Avengers hits theaters May 4th 2012.

First Hi-Res Look at Russell Crowe as Jor-El

2011-10-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of ComicBookMovie. Check out our first look at Russell Crowe in his complete Jor-El costume from Man of Steel. Crowe is a great actor and I am interested to see what he will bring to the role If you look closely you can see the blue Superman suit underneath his armor. I get the feeling that Zod will be wearing something very similar. This not at all what I was expecting. It's very different from any previous version of Kryptonian garb we have seen before, it's surprisingly very alien looking. I think its cool, but I want to see it in an official photo before I make my final decision. Man of Steel which is directed by Zack Snyder, hits theaters June 14th 2013. What do you guys think?

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 10/5/11

2011-10-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hey guys. This a light week filled with some seriously high quality books. As we enter the second month of DC's "New 52" the time to make cuts is hear. So here is what I am looking forward to picking up most. Action Comics #2 byGrant Morrison with art by Rags Morales and Brent Anderson. Action Comics #1was one of my favorite issues of the relaunch. It reinvigorated Superman andrestored him to a proper man of action. I can’t wait to see what Morrison doesnext Animal Man #2 ByJeff Lemire and Travel Foremen. Again this was another book that had a first issue that really impressedme. Lemire has a great handle on the Baker family and I am both excited andterrified to see what is going to happen to them. Swamp Thing #2 byScott Snyder and Yannick Paquette. Scott Snyder continues to prove he is one the top writers in comics.With the first issue so effectively setting the stage and making me nervousanytime I see a fly.

Image Comics gives us the Robert Kirkman hat trick with the Infinite, Invincible and The Walking Dead.Personally I am picking up the Invincible, which has been on a real upswingsince the "Viltrumite War." And theWalking Dead which seems to be struggling to get its groove back since "No WayOut."

Also from Image is TheLast of the Greats by Joshua Hale Fialkov and Brent Peeples. Fialkov is oneof my favorite writers working today and if you liked I, Vampire be sure to pick this up because this is not your typical superhero book. Josh is also reuniting with his Echoes collaborator Rahsan Ekedal for Top Cow Pilot Season The Test. As you know Echoes was one of my favorite mini-series of the year so I am not going to miss the reunion of these two creators.
Marvel only has one book I am really looking forward to. X-Men: Schism #5, by JasonAaron and Adam Kubert. This is the epic conclusion to one of my favorite X-Menstories and a reunion of Aaron and Kubert who did wrote the incredibly funAstonishing Spider-Man and Wolverine.Well that is that for this week in comics. So how about you guys, what are you looking forward to picking up?

BOOM! Studios

The Rinse #2

Action Comics #2

Animal Man #2

Batwing #2

Stormwatch #2

Swamp Thing #2

IMAGE

Invincible # 83

Last of the Greats #1

Walking Dead #89

Marvel Comics

Superior #5

X-Men: Schism #5

TOP COW
PILOT SEASON: The Test #1

Merry Wednesday!!! Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #2

2011-10-03T18:07:00.000-07:00

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #2

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

Artist: Sara Pichelli

"R U Spider-Man?!!"

So here we go, our introduction to Miles Morales continues. I won't say that the Bendis picks up the pace in the second chapter but nonetheless, a lot is accomplished. We learn more of Miles' new abilities (I like the camouflage and stinger shocks), more light is shed on the rift between Miles father and Uncle Aaron, and we meet Miles' best friend Ganke. Bendis is slowly expands the cast focusing as much on Miles Morales' family and friends as he does on Miles. I am really impressed with how much Bendis has endeared this character to me in such a short time. Miles is a good kid that I would want to read about, powers or no powers.

Marvel is wisely double shipping the book for at least the first arc to allow Bendis to decompress the story and still keep readers interested and coming back to their local comic shops. It also shows that when well done, decompression can work well. The conversation between Miles and his father is a wonderful piece of writing. It just felt like such an honest conversation between a father and son. The heartbreak in Mile's father's voice as he reveals his past is captured perfectly. In contrast the tone of the conversation between Miles and Ganke was fast paced and fun, the dialouge kinda reminded me a Aaron Sorkin dialogue. In this issue Bendis doesn't give Miles an internal monologue instead he shows us the dynamic and relationship between Miles, his father, and friend Ganke strictly through dialogue, a great example of showing us and not telling us.

Sarah Pichelli continues to improve as an artist. The artwork is gorgeous. This issue which is mainly comprised of two conversations is a beautiful piece of visual storytelling. It looks even better than the last issue, seriously, I am running out of wonderful adjectives to describe it.

I just love this book and it's cast of characters. It reminds me how strong a writer Bendis can be when he has a stronger smaller ensemble to play with. The two week wait for issue three feels like an eternity.

Check Out My Picks For Comic Impact's New This Week

2011-10-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys. Here are my picks for Comic Impact's segment, "New This Week." Stay tuned for my complete list of books in tomorrow's column, "T'Was the Night Before Wednesday. "

The Impact September 25th-October 1st

2011-09-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

Here is this week's installment of The Impact. Check it out to see a wrap up of the news making it's way around the blogosphere.

George Perez Off Superman With Issue #7

2011-09-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Breaking News!!! Courtesy of Newsarama. George Perez is off writing duties for Superman. As of issue seven the new creative team for the book will be Keith Giffen writing and Dan Jurgens on pencils. Sources are saying that Perez will most likely stay on to do finishes for Jurgens pencils. This is the second title Keith Giffen has stepped in to write after the initial writer has left the book, the first being Green Arrow. I have a feeling that Giffen and Jurgens are only a stop gap measure until they can find someone more permanent.

Chances are this will not happen but, if I was DC Comics, I would immediately offer the book to Mark Waid. He has a great handle on the character and wears his love for Superman on his sleeve, so much so it's practically a cape. He is not exclusive to any company and he is in the zone with his amazing Daredevil run. It's an easy choice DC make it happen.

Did You Catch All That?

2011-09-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

As you all know I am apart of the Comic Impact crew. This month I participated in their monthly recap show, "Did You Catch All That?" If you are mainly concerned with seeing my lovely face, fast forward to these sections that I participate in:

00:09:54 - Events

Marvel’s Fear Itself #6 by Matt Fraction

00:12:32 - Comics on Film

Captain America the first avenger Blu-Ray
The Rocketeer 20th Anniversary Edition Blu-Ray
New DC Comic TV Shows
Patty Jenkins for Thor 2
Wonder Woman news

Check it out. Hope you dig it.

UPDATE: Entertainment Weekly Gets the First OFFICIAL Look at the Avengers.

2011-09-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of Entertainment Weekly. Here is our first official still and set photos from The Avengers. In the article they discuss how in the movie our heroes will not necessarily get along with one another.Hawkeye himself, Jeremy Renner, puts it best,“Just because they’re super heroes doesn’t mean they’re super friends”. But despite the friction between the characters on the screen, the camaraderie between the cast and crew was apparently very prevalent as the cast and crew constantly were constantly hanging out on and off the set.

I love the still of Cap and Tony Stark. Their expressions perfectly encapsulate their characters. It's also our best look at how the new Cap uniform will look onscreen and I think it looks great.

Stay tuned as I'm sure more information and pictures will be making their way online soon enough. The issue Entertainment Weekly featuring our favorite team of assembled heroes hits news stands tomorrow. The Avengers hits theaters May 4th 2012.

Latest Installment of Pick of the Week.

2011-09-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest installment of Pick of the Week. Sheldon, Simon, and I talk about our favorite and not so favorite books of the week. Listen to it HERE.

Merry Wednesday!!! Aquaman #1

2011-09-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Aquaman #1

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Ivan Reis

"I Don't talk to Fish."

Finally Aquaman #1 is here!!! This is a book I have been hoping and waiting for since Arthur Curry returned at the end of Blackest Night. If you remember the book was first announced back in March well before we knew about the "New 52" and boy it was worth the wait. The issue starts out with the immediate and brief introduction to the new antagonists for our hero, terrifying looking creatures known simply as the Trench. The focus shifts to Aquaman as he stops an armored car heist and from there we follow him through a day in his life. It's here we see how he is perceived both in the DCU and in our world.

Writer Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis who first collaborated on the character during Brightest Day bring their A game to this book. The book never hides it's intent, which is to show you why Aquaman is cool. It's a little meta, but with this book it comes off as clever and not overbearing like it was in Justice League International #1. It was a smart move to have Aquaman away from the ocean for the entire first issue. It shows us he is not limited to the water like many people perceive him to be.While showcasing Aquaman as a serious hero, Johns wisely makes sure that Arthur does have sense of humor. Johns script is very tight and hands down this is one of his best efforts in years. Also it is nice to see that Aquaman and Mera's relationship is intact and that it's a strong and respectful relationship.

This is a a beautiful looking book. I think the extra lead time allowed Ivan to give us some of his best work. Joe Prado's inks showcase Ivan Reis' tight pencils. This is truly a wonderful artistic collaboration.

Aquaman #1 proves that there are not bad characters, if you match the right writer with the right character you will get something great out of it. The one thing I find a little funny is that many people are saying "Aquaman is FINALLY Cool!!!" But Geoff Johns doesn't do anything to radically change the character of Aquaman, he just shows us what was there the entire time. The ocean is a crazy, beautiful and exciting place and Aquaman explores and defends that place. The ocean is not a boring place and Aquaman is not a boring character. I am so happy that people are finally going to see the Aquaman I knew was there waiting for us to read.

All of DC's New 52 Sell Out

2011-09-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of The Source. That's right folks, each and every one of DC Comics' "New 52" have sold out at the distributor level... And that includes the ones that have not even been released yet. Today DC confirmed the news that all fifty-two will receive second printings and elaborated on the impressive numbers.

· ACTION and BATGIRL already have third printings and JUSTICE LEAGUE, the bestselling comic book to date for all of 2011, is in its fourth printing.
· AQUAMAN #1 is the eleventh title in DC Comics-The New 52 with sales of more than 100,000. The series joins the sales ranks of the previously announced titles ACTION COMICS, BATGIRL, BATMAN, BATMAN AND ROBIN, BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT, DETECTIVE COMICS, THE FLASH, GREEN LANTERN, JUSTICE LEAGUE and SUPERMAN.
· BATMAN # 1 joins JUSTICE LEAGUE # 1 and ACTION COMICS # 1 as the third title with sales exceeding 200,000 copies.

This poses some tough questions for retailers in regard to how many copies of they need to order of the second issue and beyond. I'm also curious if and when DC will release it's digital download stats and how they will affect the numbers.

Needless to say this is great news and I wish a very sincere congratulations to DC Comics. This has brought new reader and lapsed readers into comic shops and no matter what, that is a great thing. The enthusiasm has got people to not only try the more well known characters featuring Batman and Superman but it also gave some well due attention to lesser known books like Animal Man, Aquaman, Batgirl, Batwoman, I, Vampire, and All-Star Western. At least for this month you can not argue DC's success. That said, DC has our attention now they have to keep putting out great comics to keep it.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 9/28/11

2011-09-27T00:00:00.001-07:00

This is another really strong week in comics. Really excited to read Aquaman #1, it's about time he gets the respect he deserves. My sources are telling me to expect some great stuff out of the first issue of the Flash, which is a book I am ready to love again. I, Vampire is spectacular, you can read my advance review of the first issue HERE. Please let Superman be good! Please let Superman be good! Please let Superman be good!

Marvel again has an incredibly big week, Avengers Academy is still one of their most consistently great books. I'm also excited to see Brilliant since it is always nice to see Bendis and Bagley reunite on a book.Captain America And Bucky continues to be the best Cap book on the market. Neal Adams returns to Marvel to provide the interior art for New Avengers. Of course the Marvel book I am most looking forward to is Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #2. You can read my review for the first issue HERE. Last but not least I'm going to pick up Habibi by Craig Thompson this beautiful hardcover looks incredibly compelling. Okay now it's your turn. What are you guys most excited about picking up on Wednesday?

Dark Horse

Angel and Faith #2

All-Star Western #1

Aquaman #1

Flash #1

Fury of Firestorm #1

I, Vampire #1

Justice League Dark #1

Savage Hawkman #1

Superman #1

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #670

Avengers Academy #19

Brilliant #1

Captain America and Bucky #622

Kick-Ass 2 #4

Mighty Thor #6

New Avengers #16.1

Secret Avengers #17

Ultimate Comics: Spider-Man #2

Ultimate Comics: Ultimates #2

Oni

Sixth Gun #15

Pantheon

Habibi HC

Justice League: Doom Brings an A-List Voice cast.

2011-09-26T14:19:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of TV Guide. Fans of the animated DCU REJOICE!!! Today we learned the voice cast for the next DCU animated movie, Justice League: Doom, and it is amazing!!! Kevin Conroy and Tim Daly are returning as Batman and Superman respectively. Green Lantern: Emerald Knights star Nathan Fillion returns to the role of Hal Jordan. Michael Rosenbaum is back as the Flash, Susan Eisenberg reprises her role of Wonder Woman and Carl Lumbly is Martain Manhunter. Talk about an A-List voice cast. I'm really happy to hear the best of all the animated DCU all in one movie. Justice League: Doom is loosely based on Mark Waid's Tower of Babel storyline and sadly marks the last animated film that Dwayne McDuffie worked on. Justice League: Doom will be released in February 2012.

ADVANCED Merry Wednesday!!! I, Vampire #1

2011-09-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

I, Vampire #1

Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov

Artist: Andrea Sorrentino

"You kill people." "I kill livestock."

Vampires exist in the DC Universe. Andrew Bennettis a vampire who believes they can co-exist with humanity, mainly throughstaying under the radar. His ex-lover, Mary, Queen of Blood believes vampiresshould not try to co-exist with the human... livestock, vampires should rulethem. Needless to say, this puts these two lovers at odds with one another. Wecatch up with them as Mary is making her declaration of war and Andrew istrying to get her to reconsider. Andrew doesn't doubt his convictions about vampirehuman relations but you know that losing Mary has broken his heart.

Mary is a fantastic... I don't want to sayvillain... let's say counter point to Andrew. Mary is tired of being viewed asa second-class citizen and you understand her justification for what she isdoing. After last week's books gave us some questionable female characters itis nice to see an incredibly strong female lead, one who is just as interestingas the main protagonist.

Okay EVERYONE needs to buy this book. To anyaspiring writers, look at this book; this is how you write a first issue. LikeMary, Queen of Blood this first issue is a declaration that it is not messingaround. While I am a Buffy and Angel fan I would not say I am ahuge vampire fan but I found the vampires in this book to be reallyinteresting. I think in part because the book, smartly, never lets you forgetwhat they are, brutal and viscous creatures.

What impresses me most about this book is it'sefficient storytelling. Writer Joshua Hale Fialkov shows us everything weneed to know about Andrew and Mary and their... complicated relationship. He opensthe book with a conversation most writers would make us wait five to six issuesto see. Even though we are just meeting these characters, the intimacy of theconversation tells us everything we need to know about them. We immediatelyknow the stakes (that was unintentional) not just for the world but for Andrewand Mary. Considering most first issues have a hard time introducing onemain character, the fact that we are effectively introduced to two isquite the accomplishment.

I was very impressed with Andrea Sorrentino'sbeautiful and haunting artwork. It's very reminiscent of Jae Lee in all theright ways. Sorrentino's line work maybe even a little tighter. ColoristMarcelo Maiolo gives the issue a really beautiful palette. Seriously theartwork in this issue is positively stunning.

I, Vampire is not just one of my favorite of DC's "New 52" it is handsdown one of my favorite issues of the year. This is the second time JoshFialkov has made that list this year (the first time was with Echoes).

I hope the book finds the audience it deserves. Ithas given us two very rich characters who love each other but are clearlydestined to hate each other. That my friends, is a great conflict to base astory on. Check it out; I look forward to hearing what you think about it.

Anne Hathaway Full Catwoman Costume Revealed.

2011-09-25T01:15:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Comic Impact.

Courtesy of JustJared and Celebrity-Gossip.Net. While filming of The Dark Knight Rises is currently taking place in Los Angeles, paparazzi snapped these photos of Anne Hathaway, Christian Bale, and Gary Oldman in their respective costumes. We finally see that underneath her goggles Catwoman is wearing a mask and cat ears. Personally I think it looks fine. I like Anne Hathaway, she is a great actress and I trust that her and Chris Nolan will bring us a very cool interpretation of Selina Kyle. The Dark Knight Rises hits theaters July 20th, 2012.

The Impact September 17th-September 24th

2011-09-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

Another week another installment of The Impact. Check it out. I hope you like it.

Merry Wednesday!!! Batman #1

2011-09-23T13:33:00.000-07:00

Batman #1

Writer: Scott Snyder

Artist: Greg Capullo

"...There's no place like home."

I loved this issue."Perfectly balanced" is how I would describe it. It walks the fine line of being a great introduction for new readers while being fresh enough to keep established readers like myself, very happy. The issue doesn't waste a second, it opens with a great action sequence featuring Batman fighting his entire rouges gallery in Arkham Asylum. This is a smart and exciting way to showcase your hero and his villains. Then we cut to Bruce Wayne in the Bat-Cave, he is testing out a new technology, a contact lens that is connected to the Bat-computer. This wonderful piece of facial recognition technology (that is based more in fact than you would believe) serves as the tool to introduce/reintroduce everyone in Bruce's world. Side note: I loved that Alfred had the highest clearance level.

That night Bruce is throwing a party at Wayne Manor. He is presenting to Gotham's elite on how he plans to take Gotham into the future.We started to see this last week in Batman and Robin, now we get a much better grasp on Bruce's point of view and plan. I really like this take on Bruce Wayne, he is not forgetting his past. He is moving on from his need for vengeance over the loss of his parents and now focusing his efforts on saving Gotham City. But as it is hinted at in this issue, Gotham may not want to be saved.

Bruce has to leave the party to investigate a gruesome murder scene. Here is were Snyder shows us Batman's skills as a detective. There is some great exchanges between him and Harvey Bullock. And that ending certainly leaves you immediately wanting more.

Batman #1 continues to prove that Scott Snyder is one of the top writers working in comics today. His take on the Batman universe is by far one of my favorites. His dialogue is razor sharp and brings a refreshing voice to Bruce.

Now I have never been a huge Greg Capullo fan. I enjoyed his work when I was a teenager but as I got older I seemed to enjoy it less and less. With Batman #1 he has tweaked his style slightly and it works well with the book.

With Batman #1 Snyder brilliantly captures all sides of Batman and Bruce Wayne (detective, tactical fighter, philanthropist) and showcases them all in twenty-four pages. I would have no problem handing this issue to someone who has never read a comic but wants to try Batman. In that way the book has been more of a success than other books in the "New 52." This is a fantastic issue that is very well executed. While I had a feeling this would work, it clearly exceeded all my expectations. Don't miss this one guys.

Merry Wednesday!!! Nightwing #1

2011-09-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

Nightwing #1

Writer: Kyle Higgins

Artist: Eddy Barrows

"I'm finally me again."

Dick Grayson is Nightwing again.The first Robin and former Batman is back in the guise he feels most comfortable with and you know what? It feels surprisingly right.
Nightwing #1 jumps right into the action and is a solid reintroduction/introduction to Dick Grayson. Nightwing is encountering a disturbing trend of Gotham citizens brutally attacking one another.This happens to be coinciding with Haley's Circus returning to Gotham City for the first time since Nightwing's parents were murdered. So to say he has a few things on his mind, is putting it quite lightly.
I really liked Dick Grayson as Batman, but this feels right. Between this issue and the final issue of Gates of Gotham the transition doesn't feel forced. This was greatly aided by the fact that both books were written by the same writer. The genie while back in familiar clothing, is not back in the lamp. In that sense it reminded me a lot of Mark Waid's Daredevil.
Writer Kyle Higgins has a great grasp on the character. Higgins, who has written Dick Grayson before in Batman: Gates of Gotham brings a consistent and strong voice to Dick Grayson. This is a Grayson who is relaxed and confident, he has proven he could handle the cape and cowl and any doubt or uncertainty he had regarding that is gone. I also really like how Higgins and Scott Snyder are continuing to make Gotham City such a prominent character in their books. In his short career Higgins consistently shows me he is a writer on the rise and I can't wait to see his evolution continue as he refines his craft.
Eddy Barrows has always been a capable artist but his work here is a real step up. He seems to be making his layouts much more dynamic, which is necessary with a character like Nightwing. When he shows the progression of Nightwing's movement through panel it really reminded me of Scott McDaniel's Nightwing, which is awesome.I love the opening sequence on the subway. And while I don't necessarily understand the change from blue to red, Barrows does make the new costume look good.
This was a promising start to a book I had been looking forward since it was announced. Both fans that have been following Dick's adventures as Batman as well as those fans who are meeting him for the first time will get a very entertaining first issue. Be sure to check it out.

T'Was the Night Before Wednesday 9/21/11

2011-09-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Another big week from both of the big two. DC continues to launch it's New 52 and Marvel gives us the latest installments of X-Men Schism and Avengers Childrens Crusade. I can tell you right now the two books at the top of my read pile are going to be Batman #1 and Wonder Woman #1. Scott Snyder is quickly becoming one of DC's top writers and his handle on Batman is head and shoulders above what we have been seeing elsewhere. I was fortunate enough to get an early first look at Nightwing #1 and I really enjoyed it. If you liked what Kyle Higgins was doing in Gates of Gotham you will not want to miss this. I have no idea what to expect when it comes to Wonder Woman but I have faith in Azzarello and Cliff Chiang's artwork is stunning. Marvel is giving us another issue of Daredevil, after last week's stellar issue I couldn't be happier. I'm hoping Invincible Iron Man can regain some of it's momentum after stumbling a bit last issue. I think the two Marvel books I am looking forward to most are X-Men Schism which is been the best Marvel event of the summer and Spider Island: Cloak and Dagger which has done a wonderful job introducing me to the characters of Cloak and Dagger. All in all there is no shortage of good reading ahead for me this week. How about you guys, what are you most looking forward to picking up?

Batman #1

Birds of Prey #1

Captain Atom #1

Nightwing #1

Red Hood and the Outlaws #1

Supergirl #1

Wonder Woman #1

Dynamite Entertainment

Zorro Rides Again #3

IDW

Star Trek #1

IMAGE

Witch Doctor #3

Marvel

Avengers Children's Crusade #7

Avengers #17

Captain America #3

Daredevil #4

Invincible Iron Man #508

Spider Island: Cloak and Dagger #2

Ultimate Comics: Hawkeye #2

Ultimate Comics: X-Men #1

X-Men Schism #4