Amazing Spider-Man #31 Review

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Alex Ross, Amazing Spider-Man #31, Amazing-Sider-Man #31 review, Captain America, comics, Dan Slott, Hydra, Marte Gracia, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvel Legacy, Peter Parker, Secret Empire, Spider-Man, Spider-Mobile, Stuart Immonen, Superior Octopus

Amazing Spider-Man #31

Review by Paul Bowler

Spider-Man faces the fight of his life in Amazing Spider-Man #31 as the Superior Octopus, under orders from Captain America and backed by Hydra, returns to reclaim the company Otto Octavius believes is rightfully his. Spider-Man mustered a squad of Spider-Mobiles to make a final stand at the Shanghai branch of Parker Industries, but the Superior Ock managed to override their systems and turned the Spider-Mobiles against Spider-Man!

Dan Slott continues to keep the curve balls coming thick and fast with this issues Secret Empire tie-in. Otto may have built what became Parker Industries way back when he was the Superior Spider-Man, but Peter isn’t going to give up that easily, even though the New York, London, and San Francisco offices of his company have fallen and Otto has programmed Spider-Man’s fleet of Spider-Mobiles to attack him. As you’d expect, the web-spinning action comes at a fast, furious, and ingeniously staged pace by Slott as Spidey and his allies rally themselves against Superior Ock’s underhand scheme to wrest back control and prevent him from getting his grubby Hydra funded tentacles on everything stored inside the Parker Industries mainframe.

Yes, I know I said I wasn’t bothering with ANY big comic book events or tie-in issues this year, but as I read Amazing Spider-Man regularly anyway there’s no avoiding this Secret Empire thing for me with this one really. To be honest, I had been considering dropping this title from my pull-list. Recent storylines hadn’t exactly rocked my boat, and the thought of these Secret Empire tie-in issues didn’t garner much enthusiasm from me either. I have to eat my words a bit though, as this issue has certainly rekindled my interests in all things Spider-Man again.

The fact you don’t need to have bothered with Secret Empire or cared one jot about it, was a big plus in my book. Few tie-in’s mange this, and for that I must applaud Dan Slott’s superior scripting of this issue. Otto’s journey from Superior Spider-Man, to disembodied consciousness inside a robot, and eventual rebirth as the Superior Octopus comes full circle with Amazing Spider-Man #31, it also rounds off one of the most compellingly innovative Spider-Man storylines in years, and in many ways Otto’s arc has at times proved more compelling in some ways than Peter’s own resurrection and ongoing success story with Parker Industries.

The pedal to the metal – or perhaps that should that be to side of the building – action is all stylishly brought to life by Stuart Immonen’s impeccably detailed artwork, the inks by Wade von Grawbader complement Immonen’s work perfectly, and together with colorist Marte Gracia this issue of Amazing Spider-Man looks every bit as rich and vibrant as the exciting plot threads Dan Slott has effortlessly spun into a web of high-drama and adventure. From the vertigo inducing clash with the Spider-Mobiles, to the interludes with Aunt May observing events from street level, right up to Peter’s final solution to repel Otto’s hostile takeover, and Spider-Man‘s battle with the Superior Octopus this issue is a dazzling example of a creative team pulling out all the stops to realize the epic scope, scale and implications of the fallout these events will ultimately have on Peter’s life.

Peter Parker has essentially been an everyman’s Tony Stark for a while now, which has been all well and good, but that concept quickly began to feel a bit of a wrong fit for the character. The battle between Spidey and the Superior Ock is the big highlight of the issue, and in many respects – even though the odds are impossibly stacked against him – it almost feels like Peter has finally managed to double down on that old Parker luck of his and come up trumps for once.

It didn’t make me want to check out Secret Empire, but I love how Amazing Spider-Man #31 effectively frees Peter of all that corporate paraphernalia and puts him back in the traditional red and the blue so to speak – stunning cover by Alex Ross this issue as well! I’ve also enjoyed the recent developments between Spidey and Mockingbird in this series, Peter and Bobbi are so good together – lets hope it lasts. Dan Slott is onto a sure fire winner here, the resolution of this issue and no doubt Marvel’s impending Legacy thingymajig is a great opportunity to really get back to the core essence of what makes the friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man such a wonderful character. Fingers crossed it gets our Spider-Senses tingling in all the right ways again!

Publisher: Marvel

Writer: Dan Slott / Penciler: Stuart Immonen

Inks: Wade von Grawbadger / Colourist: Marte Gracia

Letters: VC’s Joe Caramanga / Cover: Alex Ross

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Green Arrow #28 Review

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Arrow, Benjamin Percy, Black Canary, comics, DC Comics, DC Rebirth, Green Arrow, Green Arrow #28, Green Arrow #28 review, Hard Travelling Hero Part 3, Juan Ferreyra, Lex Luthor, Oliver Queen, Superman, The Flash, The Ninth Circle, Wonder Woman

Green Arrow #28

Review by Paul Bowler

Oliver Queen’s ongoing crusade to bring down the Ninth Circle brings him to Metropolis in Green Arrow #28, where the nefarious secret cabal of financiers have targeted the only person rich and powerful enough to have rejected their ideology: Lex Luthor! Not even Oliver can deal with the scale of this threat alone. Look up in the sky, is it bird, is it plane? Nope, its Superman and Green Arrow, teaming up to save the day!

Lex Luthor finds out there’s no such thing as a glass ceiling when it comes to dealing with the Ninth Circle during his tense face-off with Green Arrow in this issue. The initial exchanges might be heavy on exposition, but with Hard Travelling Hero: Part Three writer Benjamin Percy skilfully sets Oliver’s new outlook since the Ninth Circle destroyed his life on a collision course with Luthor’s ruthless business acumen.

The results are thrilling to say the least, with Luthor going all Sherlock on Green Arrow, before a malicious hack sends Lex’s employees, along with Lexcorps share price, into freefall when the one-percenters that grease the wheels of his all-powerful business empire prove to be the Achilles heel the Ninth Circle have been looking for. Fortunately the Man of Steel is quickly on hand to swoop in to assist Green Arrow with saving those affected, but will Lex Luthor be able to find a way to repel the deadly cyber-attack in time?

The impeccable art and colors by Juan Ferreyra are as impressive as ever. Every page provides a seamless blend of drama and characterization: the brooding atmosphere as Oliver’s and Lex’s vastly opposing ideologies clash is almost palpable, everyday settings that suddenly become infused with chaos are awash with sharp colors and diffused light, and vibrant action is punctuated by Ferreyra’s glorious rendition of the Man of Steel. There’s also a brief interlude as we catch up with Black Canary’s and Emi’s plan hunt down the Underground Men and the Auctioneer, along with an update on the status of Oliver’s impending trial.

We’ve already seen the Oliver team-up with The Flash and Wonder Woman during Hard Travelling Hero, and it’s great to see Green Arrow and Superman working together here. Their scenes towards the end of the issue are the undoubted highlight of this issue. Oliver have evolved so much since his fall from grace at the hand of the Ninth Circle, its been a tough journey back for him, and to hear get praise from Superman is a really defining moment for the character. I’m guessing this story-arc will probably lead to Green Arrow finally being accepted by the Justice League. I certainly hope so anyway, because it feels like it’d be the next natural step for the character to take, and it would really enhance his presence in DC Comics new Rebirth continuity.

It seems Green Arrow has even given Lex Luthor a new perspective on a few things as well, his help provides Oliver’s quest with some new leads, and sets Green Arrow on the road to the darkest city of all… Green Arrow #28 continues this series’ incredibly strong run with another breathtaking paced story from Benjamin Percy and the spellbinding art of Juan Ferreyra. In short, Green Arrow’s road trip through the DCU has turned out to be a real thrill ride and his visit to Metropolis is one issue you don’t want to miss!

Publisher DC Comics

Writer: Benjamin Percy / Art and Color: Juan Ferreyra

Lettering: Nate Piekos of BLAMBOT

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Transformers Lost Light #8 Review

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Anode, Autobots, comics, Cybertron, Cyberutopia, Decepticons, IDW Publishing, James Robers, Joana Lafuente, Lug, Megatron, Nautica, Optimus Prime, Priscilla Tramontano, Rodimus Prime, Tom B. Long, Transformers, Transformers Lost Light, Transformers Lost Light #8, Transformers Lost Light #8 review, Velocity

Transformers Lost Light #8

Review by Paul Bowler

The search continues in Transformers Lost Light #8 following their adventure in the parallel Functionist universe, which culminated with Megatron becoming separated from his crewmates, and Rodiums and Co departing from Necroworld. He’s found some new friends along the way too, including Anode, a blacksmith skilled in facilitating the Cybertronian birthing process, and her trusty sidekick, Lug. Now a trip to the lost property hub of the universe begins a new and ever eventful chapter in the Transformers saga as their quest to uncover the secrets of the Knights of Cybertron brings Nautica, Velocity, Anode, and Lug to the Howling Town…

From the opening flashback to Caminus, one thing that strikes you about this new issue of IDW Publishing’s Transformers Lost Light, is just how well it caters for both long-term Transformers fans and new readers. This skilfully crafted new story-arc by writer James Roberts quickly immerses us in events. Rodimus has dropped Nautica, Velocity, Anode, and Lug off on the planet Troja Major, a bustling intergalactic market-place where they hope to find a replacement map to Cyberutopia. Not everything is quite as Lug remembers it though, and it transpires Troja Major has been rebranded as the bereavement capitol of the galaxy.

While Nautica and Velocity lean some startling facts about clans of the Knights of Cybertron in a Museum of curios, Anode and Lug investigate a strange compound where they discover newly formed Transformers with some rather disturbing alt modes! This is Transformers at its very best. Roberts deftly brings all the strands of the plot together, it’s all deeply engaging and fascinating stuff, and the way that the Transformer characters different personalities all spark off each other as they bungle through their adventures is a joy to behold.

Similarly, the artwork by Priscilla Tramontano proves a delightful complement to James Roberts intricate scripting. The subtleties of the open and overlapping panel layouts effortlessly guide you through events as they unfold, each seamlessly flowing into the next, brooding revelations and frenetic action peppers the narrative at key intervals, and the level of detail Priscilla Tramontano crams into each panel is astonishing – especially in the market place and the museum. The colors by Joana Lafuente are rich and vibrant throughout, with bright shades and bold hues accentuating the finer nuances of Tramontano’s art beautifully, and the Transformers and their surroundings look even more impressive as a result

After a run in with a strange race of creatures packing some serious firepower, Anode and Lug bump into Wipe-Out and take refuge in a local bar where they compare notes, share intriguing new viewpoints, and settle their nerves with a swig or two of Engx. It seems someone has been hunting Blacksmiths, organics are in league with the Black Block Consortia in the middle of a turf war, but why do they need Blacksmiths? Whatever the Consortia’s reason might be, as this issue of Transformers Lost Light draws to a close, it looks like Anode and her friends will soon find out!

Bursting with exposition diligently lettered by Tom B Long, Transformers Lost Light #8 commands your full attention, and it does so with ease as the series continues to build on the rich legacy of insightful characterization and multi-faceted storylines of its illustrious forerunner – Transformers More Than Meets The Eye – with this issues terrific story by James Roberts and stunning art by Priscilla Tramontano. IDW is constantly knocking it out the park with their Transformers titles, Lost Light is another fine addition to the Cybertronian’s mythos, and Transformers Lost Light #8 is one of the most compelling and fun issues so far.

Publisher: IDW

Writer: James Roberts / Art: Priscilla Tramontano

Colors: Joana Lafuente / Letters: Tomb B Long

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Superman #27 Review

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comics, DC Comics, DC Rebirth, Gable Eltaeb, NCBD, Patrick Gleason, Peter J. Tomasi, Scott Godlewski, Superman, Superman #27, Superman #27 review

Superman #27

Review by Paul Bowler

The Kent family decide to take a vacation in Superman #27: Declaration Part 1 when exhaustion and the super-heroics of recent events in their lives catch up with them. It’s a road trip full of fun, insightful detours, and the unexpected as DC Comics Super-Family enjoy some much needed R&R. But with a dark threat looming on the horizon their probably going to need another vacation to get over this one before they are through!

I simply cannot express enough what a joy Superman #27 was to read. Like the Kent’s, I’ve also been feeling in need of a vacation myself (which is why I took break from reviews N stuff to enjoy Wimbledon), and this issue exemplifies everything I love about Superman since the characters renaissance following DC’s Rebirth. The family dynamic is what makes this title so enjoyable and fun to read. Writers Peter J Tomasi and Patrick Gleason craft a delightful issue here as Lois decides her family needs a vacation, Jon’s glee at checking out their hired camper van is also great fun, and even Clark is forced to agree they need a break after nodding off mid-flight as Superman!

The most compelling and insightful aspects of this issue are explored through the places they decide to visit on their Super-Road Trip. Scott Godlewski’s clear and concise artwork and panel layouts sublimely captures the essence of each location: from the exhilarating fun of bodysurfing at Niagara Falls, to the moving and remarkable story their visit to Rock Ridge Cemetery brings, even something as mundane as a bumper sticker holds a symbolic message of freedom, belief, and coexistence for Jon, together with stops in New York and Philadelphia, are amongst the many highlights that features in this superbly illustrated issue.

It is the people the Kent’s meet along the way that really make this road trip feel like you are witnessing something distinctly special as you read this comic book though, non more so, than when they are joined for dinner by war veteran Ryan Duffy. Needless to say this scene is brilliantly handled, it holds some of this issues most powerful and moving moments of all, and provides a fitting closure for this leg of the Kent’s road trip.

Superman #27 rounds everything off with a lovely scene for Lois and Clark, however a foreboding new menace is developing, duty calls, but this vacation is far from over just yet… I started reading Superman with the Multiplicity arc way back in issue #14 after someone recommend it to me. I’ve never been an avid reader of Superman, certainly not during The New 52, but since reading that issue I’ve become hooked on reading the Rebirth version of Superman.

Although I’m abstaining from reading any of the big comic book events, crossovers, or tie-in issues from ANY of the major publisher this year – TBH I’m fatigued and burned out by the constant monotonous deluge of these events that I find I can muster little or no enthusiasm for them right now – I have to say when I read comics as good as Superman #27 its clear to me why I feel this way. Superman #27 is, frankly, one of the best comics I’ve read this year. Its not flashy, its not a universe shattering epic, and there’s hardly any superpowers on show, its just a meaningful, beautifully told story that will challenge you and make you stop, think, and ponder long after you’ve finished it. In short, Superman #27, as well as providing a shining and timely reminder of just how brilliant comic books can be, is without doubt probably as uplifting and magnificent an issue you’ll read this year, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Publisher: DC Comics

Writers: Peter J Tomasi & Patrick Gleason

Art: Scott Godlewski / Colors: Gable Eltaeb

Letterer: Rob Leigh / Cover: Lee Weeks & Brad Anderson

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Sci-Fi Jubilee 5th Anniversary!

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Batman, Captain Britain, comics, DC Comics, Doctor Who, Horror, Marvel Comics, Paul Bowler YouTube, Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Jubilee, Sci-Fi Jubilee 4th Anniversary, Sci-Fi Jubilee 5th Anniversary, The Walking Dead, TWD, YouTube

Sci-Fi Jubilee 5^th Anniversary

My blog Sci-Fi Jubilee has reached its 5th anniversary! This year seems to have flown by so quickly as well! I’ve have had a fantastic time writing this blog over the last five years, covering a wide variety of TV, film, and comic book reviews and articles from numerous subjects and genres that I enjoy most – especially when it comes to Doctor Who, The Walking Dead, and comic books – which I absolutely love writing about!

Of course, though, Sci-Fi Jubilee would be nothing without all of you! So, I’d like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everybody out there for reading and following my blog. You are always so generous and kind, and give me so much awesome support through commenting on my blog nominating me for blog awards, and sharing my reviews on Twitter, WordPress, and Sci-Fi Jubilee’s Facebook page. My new YouTube Channel has also become a major feature on the blog now as well, the walkthroughs I did for The Return to Arkham Collection and Resident Evil 7 Biohazard were really fun to do, and I can’t thank you enough for all of your subscriptions, comments, and encouragement that has continued to make the YouTube Channel feel such a welcome addition to Sci-Fi Jubilee. When I first started out with this blog, I never dreamed Sci-Fi Jubilee would become such a huge part of my life as it has. But most importantly it is your feedback that make Sci-Fi Jubilee and blogging so enjoyable for me. Sci-Fi Jubilee has evolved so much over the last five years, I also write for other websites now too, and I look forward to doing some more walkthroughs on my YouTube Channel in the future. Cheers for all your amazing support everyone, and here’s to another brilliant year!

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Star Trek The Next Generation Mirror Broken #1 Review

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Captain Picard, Cardassians, comics, Dave Tipton, DS9, IDW, IDW Publishing, JK Woodward, Klingons, Scott Tipton, Star Trek, Star Trek Mirror Universe, Star Trek The Next Generation Mirror Broken, Star Trek The Next Generation Mirror Broken #1, Star Trek The Next Generation Mirror Broken #1 Review, Star Trek TNG Mirror Broken #1, The Enterprise

Star Trek The Next Generation Mirror Broken #1

Review by Paul Bowler

Get ready to boldly return to the Mirror Universe in Star Trek The Next Generation Mirror Broken #1 as Captain Jean-Luc Picard resolves to seize command of the Empire’s deadliest new warship, the ISS Enterprise! It is a quest fraught with deception, intrigue, and murder – with allies and enemies vying for power at every turn. Picard aims to use the Enterprise to restore the Empire to its former glory, the challenge he faces is immense, but fortunately he has a cut-throat crew on his side that will do whatever it takes to succeed!

IDW Publishing’s new six part Star Trek: The Next Generation Mirror Broken mini-series, written by David Tipton and Scott Tipton, and illustrated by J.K. Woodward, kicks off in fine style with this exciting first issue. The Tipton brothers are a winning team when it comes to writing Star Trek, having already brought us many popular Star Trek comic books, including the Star Trek / Planet of the Apes: The Primate Directive crossover series and the FCBD Star Trek TNG Mirror Broken special (which was also the prequel to this mini-series).

The Tipton’s take on the Mirror Universe is a fascinating and insightful one, particularly as their was never a TV episode featuring the STTNG crew in this alternative dimensional pane. Star Trek TNG: Mirror Broken shows how the aftermath of the STTOS crews’ adventure in the episode Mirror Mirror (1967) that led to that universes Spock’s more logical and tolerant rule over the Terran Empire, was ultimately overrun during the Klingon / Cardassian alliance that was eventually forged during the TNG / DS9 era. With most of its fleet in ruins, the balance of power in Alpha Quadrant has shifted, and the Terran Empire has been driven back to Earth.

Captain Picard and the crew of the ISS Stargazer are among the few remaining starships of the fleet left defending the Empire. Following a run in with a Cardassian vessel, the Stargazer visits the Mars shipyards of Utopia Planitia, where Captain Picard learns about a new warship that’s secretly being constructed for the Empire, and it’s a ship that could shift the balance of power in his favour!

Star Trek TNG Mirror Broken presents us with a sleeveless, pumped up, and ruthlessly ambitious Captain Picard. Even the familiar Picard phrases have a far more sinister, edgier, inflection to them. Picard has been playing the long game, and it looks like the Captain’s steely patience is about to pay off. We also meet some of the other TNG crewmembers in this issue, including the alluring Inquisitor Troy, the efficient Commander Data is ever present with his seemingly stoic penchant for Borg-like perfection and adaptations, there’s a decidedly cunning version of Barclay as well, and the downtrodden La Forge seems equally as cunning as Picard.

Well known for Fallen Angel, longtime Star Trek artist, J.K. Woodward’s art is a perfect choice to illustrate IDW’s STTNG Mirror Broken and realize a darker version of the Next Generation crew in the grittier reality of the Mirror Universe. From the scene setting opening flashback, to the brooding introduction of Picard, J.K. Woodward’s stellar artwork instantly transports you right into the heart of this Mirror Universe saga. The likenesses of all the characters are stunningly realized, the bridge of the Stargazer feels alive with activity during the fight with the Cardassians, and the scenes with La Forge, Picard, and Data on Mars crackle with suspense.

As this year is the 30^th anniversary of Star Trek The Next Generation, it makes this Mirror Universe comic book epic all the more exciting, and its great to see these Mirror Universe versions of Picard and Co reunited for this daring escapade to take the Enterprise for themselves and make the Terran Empire great again. Star Trek The Next Generation: Mirror Broken #1, with its intricately crafted storyline by David Tipton and Scott Tipton, and stunning art by J.K. Woodward, certainly gets this IDW mini-series off to a terrific start, and a must read for all Trek fans this new comic book day. Make it so!

Publisher IDW Publishing

Writers David Tipton & Scott Tipton / Art and colors by J.K. Woodward

Letters AndWorld Design / Cover by J.K. Woodward

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All Star Batman #10 Review

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Alfred Pennyworth, All Star Batman, All Star Batman #10, All Star Batman #10 review, Batman, Batman the First Ally Part 1, comics, DC Comics, DC Rebirth, Jordie Bellaire, Rafael Albuquerque, Sci-Fi Jubilee, Scott Snyder, Steve Wands, The First Ally

All Star Batman #10

Review by Paul Bowler

The Dark Knight detective faces a new, deadly enemy in All Star Batman #10, an unpredictable foe, one whose attacks are seemingly impossible to counteract! Batman uncovers a dark scheme from decades past, but inconceivably the architect of this insidious plot could well be one of his closets allies of all! All Star Batman #10 reunites Scott Snyder with his American Vampire collaborator Rafael Albuquerque for this stunning new Batman story arc: The Last Ally!

Interspaced with flashback to a rooftop chase across the pond in London and Batman and Alfred’s present day escapade in Miami, All Star Batman #10 hit’s the ground running, and doesn’t let up for a moment. The Batmobile is driven like an old pro, there’s an enemy with a familiar face to be caught, and the crowd goes wild before you‘ve even finished turning a few pages. Hell, you’d be forgiven for thinking that’d be enough full-on Bat-action for one issue alone, but this is Snyder and Albuquerque we are talking about here, and like Batman in this issue they sure know how to grab our attention with a scene stealing entrance!

Having got word something dangerous is being smuggled into Miami, Bruce and Alfred go all good cop bad cop to get the information they need, and their subsequent attempt to infiltrate an old fort off the coast sequestered by a quartet of leaders from Miami’s most feared crime families puts Bruce in terrible danger. Initially what feels like an Oceans 13 heist coated with Miami Vice glamour and menace, soon becomes a deadly game of pirates, and before you can say shiver me timbers all hell breaks loose as the bullets start flying!

This storyline is going to delve into Alfred’s past, an exciting concept in itself, but what I really liked about this issue was how Scott Snyder used the narrative to highlight the surrogate father / son bond between Alfred and Bruce. There are certain points in this issue, usually right in the thick of the action, where Alfred’s reminiscing feels genuinely heart-warming and quite moving. However, these moments are also powerfully counterbalanced with Alfred’s steely determination, especially during the interrogation scene, where we gain further insight into his character and just how far he’d be willing to cross the line if need be.

The pencils and inks of Rafael Albuquerque’s artwork brings the first chapter of The First Ally to life in glorious fashion. The action is often fast and furious, with concisely structured page layouts relaying Snyder‘s vision with the same flawless synergy their collaborations always bring, as story and art seamlessly fuse as one. Rafael Albuquerque’s spectacular art effortlessly draws you in, you’d swear can almost hear the roar of the crowd as Batman ejects form the Batmobile, there’s centrally no doubting that Alfred means business either, those flashbacks have a unique favour that perfectly encapsulates the era, and the high-tech security of the fort soon becomes engulfed in a slow-motion barrage of gunfire with a yo, ho, ho, and a bottle of rum. The colors by Jordie Bellaire beautifully complement Albuquerque’s art, from the dusky hues of London from times before to the bombastic tones of the opening chase sequence, though to the vivid shades of the Miami skyline, and the ice blues and greys of the fort showdown, Bellaire’s colors sublimely enrich every single scene.

Killers-In-Law, written by Rafael Albuquerque and Rafael Scavone, featuring art by Sebastian Fiumara, and colors by Trish Mulvihill, is the new backup story which accompanies this new All Star Batman story-arc, involving Bruce Wayne going deep undercover to infiltrate the Russian mafia. It’s an edgy, brutal, bare knuckle story, one that plays its cards close to its chest, insomuch that it fills in just enough back story to keep us guessing how everything is going to slot together with The First Ally story-arc.

Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque round off The First Ally: Part 1 in fine style. You might say that Bruce’s good taste in art is his saving grace in this issue, but it also puts him smack-bang in the middle of a heart-grabbing mystery, one that Snyder brilliantly blindsides us with as past and present collide in the most unexpected way possible. The First Ally is another masterpiece in the making from Snyder and Albuquerque, with its gritty storytelling and outstanding artwork, All Star Batman #10 doesn’t just exceed expectations, if anything, it drives right through them!

Publisher DC Comics

Writer Scott Snyder / Art and Cover & Variant cover by Rafael Albuquerque

Colors Jordie Bellaire / Letters Steve Wands

Variant Cover Sebastian Fiumara

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Thanos #6 Review

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Avengers Infinity War, Champion of the Universe, Civil War II, comics, Corvus Glaive, Ebony Maw, Frank Martin, Jeff Lemire, Marvel Comics, Marvel Now, Mike Deodato, Nebula, Phoenix Egg, Phoenix Force, Shi’ar Imperial Guard, Starfox, Thane, Thanos, Thanos #6, Thanos #6 review, The Black Quadrant, Titan, VC’s Clayton Cowles

Thanos #6

Review by Paul Bowler

A reunion is on the cards in Thanos #6 as the Mad Titan faces his greatest battle of all in this stellar Marvel Comic series from Jeff Lemire, Mike Deodato, and Frank Martin. Thanos is dying! Defeated as he searched for a cure by the Shi’ar Imperial Guard, he was imprisoned. Now, as Thanos seeks to escape from his interstellar jail, Thane’s secret pact with the mistress Death to kill his father finally nears fruition, and soon two of the most powerful entities in the Marvel Universe face-off as the galaxy trembles before their might!

Yes, the cosmic you-know-what hit’s the proverbial fan in Thanos #6 after that certain “something” Thane’s audacious heist with Starfox, Nebula, and Tryco Slatterus set out to steal from Terrax the Terrible actually turned out to be a Phoenix Egg, and writer Jeff Lemire quickly addresses the grievances that Thane’s allies have about being so grossly misled into doing his dirty work for him. The Phoenix Energy will enable Thane to reclaim everything that he’s lost since his powers were taken from him, but his associates aren’t going to stand idly by and just let him take it either! Meanwhile, Thanos faces an army of jailers, but even with his powers faltering the Mad Titan’s resolve is undiminished, and he confronts his fate as a warrior, a conqueror of worlds, and a God who has even make reality itself cower before his power.

The distinct air of all-pervading doom that closes in around Thanos in this issue is brilliantly offset by his determination to be free of those who have so blatantly disrespected him. Jeff Lemire has skilfully crafted the events around the Mad Titan’s rapidly declining health to a point where you feel like you are right there with Thanos, as every step, every bone-crunching blow, begins to feel weaker and more laboured that the last. Likewise, Thane’s betrayal of his allies is master class in characterization, snappy dialogue crackles with tension, hitting all the emotional beats, before the realization of the ultimate sacrifice that has been made finally becomes frighteningly apparent.

When it comes the depiction of Thanos’ plight in this issue, artist Mike Deodato’s rendition of Thanos’ pure rage and undiluted contempt for the wave after wave of opposition he’s forced to bulldoze his way through to obtain freedom, is stunningly realized with an opaque series of panel layouts that dynamical relay the bone-crunching action. I especially like how Deodato angles the entire page during two key instances to accentuate the drama, giving added credence to Thanos’ waning power and the shock turn of events over on Terrax’s starship. There are some stunning emotional scenes from Dedato as well, the fury of Tryco Slatterus, self styled Champion of the Universe, feels at being betrayed is so palpable in one scene it almost eclipses Thanos‘, and Thane’s anguish at betraying Tryco is so clearly evident its almost heartbreaking. Color artist Frank Martin uses a palette of rich vivid tones to accentuate every scene, even the panel layouts are heightened as they intercut between sold backdrops of burnt orange and stark white hues that uncannily seem to give an almost cinematic quality to the visuals they frame as each scene moves seamlessly into the next.

But it is in the showdown between father and son where Jeff Lemier’s powerful storyline comes full circle. Mistress Death’s machinations have brought everything and everyone in this saga to this point, there is no turning back now, and Mike Dedato and Frank Martin pull out all the stops to ensue that the final scenes in this issue are every bit as breathtaking and jaw-dropping as the journey that has brought Thanos to this fateful moment.

Thanos #6 brings the first chapter in this epic storyline to a shocking close. The fantastic creative team of Jeff Lemir, Mike Deodato, and Frank Martin have done amazing things with this new Marvel Comics series already. The scope and scale has been unparalleled, its been unflinchingly brutal at times, and I’ve been gripped by every twist and turn in the plot since the first issue. Now they’ve set Thanos on a path unlike any he’s walked before and I can’t wait to see what happens next in the aftermath of this issues cataclysmic standoff.

Publisher: Marvel Comics

Writer: Jeff Lemire/ Artist: Mike Deodato / Colorist: Frank Martin /

Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles  / Cover: Mike Dedato and Frank Martin

Variant Cover: Jamal Campbell

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ROM #8 Review

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Alessandra Alexakis, Chris Ryall, Christos Gage, comics, David Messina, Dire Wraith D’rge, Dire Wraiths, IDW Publishing, IDW Revolution, IDW ROM, J. H. Williams, Michele Pasta, Paolo Villanell, REVOLOUTIONARIES, REVOLUTION, Rom, ROM #8, ROM #8 review, Rom The Spaceknight

ROM #8

Review by Paul Bowler

The Space Knight faces a new challenge in ROM #8 as his mission to rid the Earth of the Dire Wraiths following the arrival of two of his fellow warriors from the Solstar Order, Livia, and Orphion, who not only have links to ROM’s past, but have travelled to Earth to stop the Dire Wraiths at all costs – even if that price is the destruction of Earth!

IDW Publishing’s new ROM series continues to go from strength to strength in ROM #8, with plot and script by Chris Ryall and Christos Gage, pencils and Inks by Paolo Villanell, and colors by Alessandra Alexakis. Following ROM’s initial skirmish with Orphion and Livia, Police Officer Camilla Byers was finally cured of the Wraith influence consuming her body (her infected arm was blown off during the battle), ROM’s attempts to reason with his Space Knight brethren only compounds their differences further during a run in with two rogue G.I. Joe operatives, and the Dire Wraiths begin to hatch even darker schemes to vanquish the Solstar Knights.

ROM #8 sees ROM and Livia racing to intercept Orphion as he launched an attack on a drilling platform controlled by the Wraiths. Chris Ryall and Christos Gage continue to explore the bond between thee Space Knight characters as the issue. It seems ROM has deviated from their orders strict adherence to the Solstar Code, something which Orphion, his uncompromising superior officer has been sent to investigate, together with Livia, ROM’s childhood friend and former lover, but she Orhion’s Space Knight partner now and follows his orders to the letter.

Their differences creates an exciting and tense dynamic between this trio of Solstar Knghts, especially when Orphion’s plan to flood the rigs drill with neutralizing energy to send a shockwave into the planets core and destroy the Earth becomes apparent, something which ROM is vehemently too opposed and selflessly prepared to put his life on the line to prevent! Ryall and Gage also build on the subplot involving the two aggrieved G.I Joe soldiers with an axe to grind about ROM’s actions during REVOLUTION, and Darby’s ongoing struggle to cope with her PTSD and her experiences with ROM all take a startling turn.

Paolo Villanell’s artwork brings the stylish action-set pieces to life in this issue with a bold fervour that places us right in the thick of the action at all times. This issue unfolds in exhilarating blockbuster-like fashion, with ROM’s conflict with Livia and Orphan rapidly intercutting between numerous angles and viewpoints across the bold page layouts. Villanell ensures the Space Knights unique attributes and tactics are all impressively realized, and the raw strength and power displayed in their frenetically paced combat is an awesome sight to behold. The color by Alessandra Alexakis strikes a perfect contrasts between the gleaming metallic hues of the Space Knights and the fire fights of dazzling energy bolts that pepper the action, whilst the brief interludes featuring G.I. Joe operatives Beach Head and Grunt and war veteran Darby Mason respectively utilize warmer tones to provide a distinct contrast for these scenes away from the central conflict at the heart of the issue.

ROM #8: Reinforcements Part 4 is packed with wall to wall Space Knight action. Darby also makes a shock discovery, ROM’s no holds barred showdown with Orphian reaches a major turning point, and the Dire Wraiths gather their dark sorceries as they prepare to unleash a frightening new horror against the Space Knights!

The characterization of ROM is pitch perfect throughout, from the subtle redesign of his classic armor, right through to the inflections of his dialogue, this series is lovingly structured to respect the character, and with the recent addition of two new Space Knights in the aftermath of the REVOLOUTION cross-over this title is really firing on all cylinders. Whether you’re a fan of the original Marvel comic book ROM series by Bill Mantlo and Sal Buscema, or a complete newbie, ROM #8 has something for everyone to enjoy as Chris Ryall, Christos Gage, Paolo Villanell, and Alessandra Alexakis continue make this reimagining of ROM one of the standout titles in the IDW Publishing and Hasbro Entertainments shared universe of characters.

Publisher: IDW Publishing

Plot and script: Chris Ryall and Christos Gage / Pencils and Inks: Paolo Villanell

Color by: Alessandra Alexakis / Letters by: Shawn Lee

Regular Cover: Nelson Daniel

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Thanos #5 Review

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Avengers Infinity War, Champion of the Universe, Civil War II, comics, Corvus Glaive, Ebony Maw, Frank Martin, Jeff Lemire, Marvel Comics, Marvel Now, Mike Deodato, Nebula, Shi’ar Imperial Guard, Starfox, Thane, Thanos, Thanos #5, Thanos #5 review, The Black Quadrant, Titan, VC’s Clayton Cowles

Thanos #5

Review by Paul Bowler

Thanos #5 finds the Mad Titan incarcerated in a top secret prison in deep space after his ignominious defeat at the hands of the Shi’ar Imperial Guard; something that would never have been possible but for the startling fact that Thanos is dying! Thanos’ ailing condition and his desperate attempts to find a cure might ultimately prove to be his undoing, but the Shi’ar Empire are not the only ones seeking to destroy him… Thanos’ own son, Thane has forged an alliance with Starfox, Nebula, and Tryco Slatterus to kill Thanos, but non save Thane are aware of the real power behind his dark scheme – the mistress Death herself!

He may be down, but Thanos is certainly not out, and this latest issue of Marvel Comics superb ongoing Thanos series from writer Jeff Lemire, artist Mike Deodato, and color artist Frank Martin illustrates just how abominable and devious the Marvel Universes big bad can be – especially when the stakes are this high.

The space station where Thanos is being held utilizes the highest security and fail-safe measures imaginable, its capable of restraining cosmic-level menaces, and the initial stages of Thanos’ imprisonment have even been overseen personally by the Shi’ar Imperial Guard itself. The ruthless Warden Daak has the utmost confidence in his facility, but despite his weakened state Thanos’ predicament has made him more dangerous than ever, and writer Jeff Lemire quickly builds the nerve-jangling tension as the Mad Titan’s confinement brings dire consequences for those foolish enough to imagine that such a feat could ever be possible.

As Thanos languishes in his interstellar gulag, Thane’s plot to destroy his father takes a new turn when he, along with his uncle Eros, the former Avenger known as Starfox, with the mercenary Nebula, and Tryco The Champion of the Universe set out to steal something from Terrax the Terrible that they need to further their nefarious cause. Of course, Thane’s new allies know nothing of his secret pact with Death, let alone the full extent of the web of deceit he has woven around them to entice their help in acquiring his goal.

Mike Deodato’s artwork stunningly realizes the deep space prison facility where Thanos is being held. This huge impregnable fortress is an imposing sight, suspended in the depths of space, and the detail Deodato lavishes on the oppressively gloomy interiors equally matches the awe-inspiring spectacle of the exterior. Likewise, the scenes on Terrax’s space craft are equally as impressive. The distinctive bold overlaying panel structure Deodato employs perfectly conveys each and every beat of Lemire’s fast-paced script, with some brilliantly crafted character moments, and Thanos’ inevitable breakout being the undoubted highlight of the issue. The colors by Frank Martin accentuate the deep shadows of Thanos’ detention with a vivid contrast of orange and red hues, whilst the dusky metal shades withing Terrax’s ship are offset beautifully by the stealthily progress of Thane’s colourful associates towards the vault deep inside the hulking vessel.

This issue of Thanos has a quirky interstellar a heist movie vibe to it. There is some great banter between Thane’s team as well: with Starfox’s gift for the gab getting their foot in the door, Tryco’s wry observations of Eros’ conversational skills are priceless, whilst Thane continues to play his cards close to his chest, and my favourite bit of the whole escapade comes when Nebular acrobatically steals Tryco’s thunder before he can even finish his sentence! While Thanos himself doesn’t feature quite as much as I would’ve liked, the antics on Terrax’s ship more than makes up for it, and everything builds towards a cliff-hanger so jaw-dropping it will totally blow you away.

Thrilling, brutal, and epic in scale, Thanos #5 elevates this new Marvel comic book series to a whole new level. Jeff Lemir, Mike Deodato, and Frank Martin continue to bring remarkable new aspects and compelling insights into the Mad Titan’s shady world, with Thanos #5 potentially setting up one of the biggest smack downs Thanosthusiasts have ever seen!

Publisher: Marvel Comics

Writer: Jeff Lemire / Artist: Mike Deodato / Colorist: Frank Martin

Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles / Cover: Mike Dedato and Frank Martin

Variant Cover: Rob Guillroy

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