Constantine #2 - A Review

April 11, 2013, 7:01 pm

It's a rare thing in these days of writing-for-the-trade for a comic book to feature a title page recapping the action of the story so far. It's even rarer for a writer to summarize the earlier chapters as a part of the story in a way that flows naturally. And rarest of all is the writer who does this in the second issue of a comic, for the benefit of new readers who might not have been able to find a copy of the first issue. Constantine #2 is one of this rarest breed of book, with a second page that neatly summarizes the series to date.

Such is the level of fine detail that Jeff Lemire brings to every series he writes. Were that the end of it, it would be enough to earn my admiration. But Lemire is a creative author as well, presenting ideas so novel I find myself amazed that nobody has considered exploring them in a story before. Such is the case for the centerpiece of this issue - Why hasn't The Spectre sought to bring John Constantine to justice for his many crimes? Lord knows John deserves it - literally. And John's earned the attention of equally powerful supernatural beings before. So why is it only now that God's Wrath has fallen upon The Laughing Magician? Because Lemire is a chess-master of prose and only one such as he could play the pieces in such a manner.

Lemire's script is matched in detail and quality by the art of Renato Guedes. I have a hard time picking favorites among artists but I'd easily rank Guedes as one of the top 5 working at DC Comics today. Another few issues like this one and he might make my personal Top 5.

Bottom Line - if you haven't been reading Constantine, there's still time to catch-up.

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Action Comics #19 - A Review

April 11, 2013, 9:51 pm

≫ Next: World's Finest #11 - A Review

≪ Previous: Constantine #2 - A Review

And now, a moment of silence in memorial for Andy Diggle's one-issue run on Action Comics and what might have been.

...

This was it. This was everything we'd hoped for in a Superman comic in the New 52. This issue was everything a Superman comic SHOULD be. Not to disparage Grant Morrison's work on this title or disavow every positive thing I've said about it before, but having read this issue I see now the problem with Morrison's run that I sensed but could not put words to before. Morrison's Action Comics was not about Superman as a character - it was about the world of Superman and what Superman represents. Was it worth reading? Absolutely! Was it about Superman? Not really.

Diggle focuses upon the characters as characters and reveals everything you need to know about them in the span of a few pages. Lois Lane is outspoken and tough as nails without seeming shrewish. She may rib on "Smallville" but you still see the respect she has for Clark Kent. Lex Luthor is appropriately diabolic - the sort of man who keeps a psychiatrist hostage to analyze him for any mental weaknesses, only to argue her diagnosis. Diggle also explores how Luthor is Superman's totally opposite in the respect that both men perceive the problems with the world and wish to save it but Luthor's ends are not the same as Clark Kent's. And Superman? He is summed up as neatly as I've seen anywhere as a man who hates bullies and won't start a fight but will damn well finish it if he must.

Tony Daniel's artwork is as skillful as ever. Reports say that he'll be handling the writing on this book as well, finishing the scripts based on Diggle's plots. I wasn't a big fan of Daniel's Detective Comics run but I think I'll give this series one more issue to see if it can hold my interest. As it is, this issue is well worth your time and money.

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World's Finest #11 - A Review

April 12, 2013, 6:24 am

≫ Next: Green Lantern #19 - A Review

≪ Previous: Action Comics #19 - A Review

World's Finest #11 continues this titles' tradition of using different artists to depict different scenes. Sadly, none of this issue's artists are quite up to the standard set by George Perez and Kevin Maguire. This is not to say that the artwork of the issue is bad but it is flawed in some respects.

Ken Lashley pencils and inks the Huntress sequences with an amazing level of detail. Sadly, his inks obscure more than they enhance. The colorist also did the artwork a disservice, doing little to differentiate the tones of figures standing in the shadows from those standing in the light.

The Huntress/Power Girl team-up scenes fare little better. Oddly, they seem to suffer the opposite problem. Here, Wayne Faucher's inks seem to have skipped over the characters completely with all of the detailed highlighting and shading going into the backgrounds. This wouldn't be so bad if penciler Robson Rocha had bothered to give the characters much definition outside of the close-ups. I'm also not too fond of Rocha's character designs or poses. Take a look at Power Girl's neck in the above panel and Huntress's back!

Barry Kitson's artwork, mainly centering upon the Power Girl solo sequences, manages to be "just right". The figures are clear. The shading is perfect. Yet Kitsn also delivers the issue's goofiest image on the final page. And I apologize for spoiling this shocking revelation, but since the fold-over cover also reveals the story's big surprise - that the New God Desaad has been masquerading as Power Girl's semi-boyfriend, I figure I'm okay. This new Desaad looks ridiculous!

All of this is incidental to Paul Levitz script, which continues the circular trend of the past few issues. Michael Holt (a.k.a. Mister Terrific) continues his vendetta against Power Girl's secret identity. Power Girl and Huntress investigate his labs trying to figure out why. And up until the last page, they don't get any closer to figuring out what we've known for several months - it isn't Michael Holt!

I'll give this book one more issue, primarily because I'm curious how the heck Desaad from The New Gods figures into all of this and if/when this book will tie in to the far superior Earth 2 title. As it is, that mystery and Kitson's artwork are the only things to recommend it. I hope it will get better next month.

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Green Lantern #19 - A Review

April 12, 2013, 1:46 pm

≫ Next: Doctor Who, Series 7 - Episode 8 - Cold War

≪ Previous: World's Finest #11 - A Review

Everything I said about the artwork last month applies to this month's Green Lantern as well. The two separate art teams do an excellent job of telling two very different stories within their very different worlds. The shorter, more stylized portion of the comic is drawn and inked by Szymon Kurdanski, who delivers a deliberately sketchy style in depicting The Dead Zone where Hal Jordan finds himself trapped, neither alive nor dead. I wonder, in retrospect, if there's some connection between this place and The Phantom Zone?

Most of this issue is drawn by Ardian Syaf, with inks by Guillermo Ortego and Mark Irwin, in a more traditional superhero style. As in the previous two issues of Green Lantern Corps, we are treated to a number of Elseworlds-styled scenarios where our heroes get to see how the universe would have changed had it been for one small twist of fate. This time, it is Sinestro who confronts The First Lantern and is exposed to visions of what might have been, all while The First Lantern finally reveals its' purpose in manipulating the emotions of the Green Lantern Corps. greatest heroes and gathering energy from them...

This is a solid issue of Green Lantern but it's completely inaccessible to those readers not already immersed in the glory of it's universe. I highly suggest tracking down a copy of Green Lantern: Rebirth and starting from there if you are interested in seeing what all the hype is about. This is a great book but this is not a good time to start with the monthly series.

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Doctor Who, Series 7 - Episode 8 - Cold War

April 13, 2013, 8:42 pm

≫ Next: Green Arrow #19 - A Review

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THE QUICK, SPOILER FREE REVIEW

Easily the best episode of the season so far and the best Doctor Who script ever written by Mark Gatiss. The drama is well paced and backed by an amazing supporting cast. The redesigned monster looks menacing while still being true to the original design from the classic series. Really, the only flaw with this episode is that it feels a bit rushed.

THE PLOT

It is 1983. A Russian submarine is returning home with an rock-music loving professor and his recent find - a frozen figure he believes to be a mammoth. But the truth is far stranger and the TARDIS materializes on-board the sinking sub as The Doctor quickly recognizes what the scientist has truly found - a cryogenically frozen Martian! Introducing himself as Grand Marshal Skaldak, it seems the Ice Warrior has been trapped in the ice for over 5000 years. Displeased by this revelation, Skaldak's shock becomes rage after he is attacked by the fearful soldiers of the submarine's crew. Now it's up to the Doctor to stop Skaldak from arming the submarine's nuclear missiles and triggering World War III in retaliation for the assault on his person.

THE GOOD PARTS

* Mark Gatiss' script is brilliant, perfectly capturing the feeling of a classic Third-Doctor era Doctor Who episode. The Ice Warriors were used surprisingly little in the classic series which I personally found to be a shame as The Ice Warriors have one of the most memorable developments out of all the alien races on the show. They started out as your typical would-be alien conquerors but later evolved into a no less dangerous but far more peaceful race. Indeed, The Doctor was forced to confront his own prejudices regarding The Ice Warriors and what they were versus what they had become in The Curse of Peladon and we see a lot of references to that episode here, with The Doctor talking about how the Martians were presumed dead but they are merely scattered and will one day rebuild their empire.

* The re-designed Ice Warrior costume looks amazing, both with helmet and without. I always felt the classic Ice Warriors had one of the best designs in the classic series and the new look resembles their old costumes well enoughwhile still looking far more high-budget.

* This episode is aided by an amazing supporting cast. The highly-underrated David Warner's excellent performance as the Duran Duran-loving Professor Grisenko is a real treat. Likewise, Tobias Menzies (Brutus on HBO's Rome) is suitably treacherous as the cowardly Lieutenant Stepashin and Liam Cunningham (Davos on HBO's Game of Thrones) is perfectly cast as the submarine Captain. Skaldak himself requires the combined efforts of two talented actors, with Spencer Wilding as the Ice Warrior's imposing physical form and actor Nicholas Briggs providing Skaldak's sibilant speech.

* Matt Smith is in top form. He doesn't get any big speeches this time, but it is nice seeing him play against type. Usually The Doctor gives the alien menage a speech about how awesome humanity is and why they deserve to be spared. Here, he appeals to Skaldak's sense of honor, basically arguing that humanity isn't worth the trouble. It's an interesting twist on the usual theme.

THE PROBLEMS

* Your enjoyment of this episode may be dependent upon your tolerance for certain classic Doctor Who tropes, particularly the aliens being less monstrous than they appear and the cliche that the soldiers always make things worse by presuming everything is a threat as The Doctor and the other scientist characters plea for peace, talking problems out and using your brain before using a gun.

* A frequent problem with many classic Doctor Who stories is that they were overly padded and went on too long. This episode suffers from the opposite problem. Between Professor Grisenko and his talks with Clara, the subplot with the lieutenant trying to curry favor with The Ice Warrior to strike a blow against his American enemies and The Doctor's negotiations with both sides over giving peace a chance, this is one of the few New Who episodes that might have benefited from a second episode to let the characters play a while longer.

* Clara seems awfully dismissive of the power of music, given her experiences last week in The Rings of Akhenaten.

THE FINAL VERDICT

My opinion may be biased as a long-time fan of the Ice Warriors, but I loved this episode the best of any thus far in Series 7. The script is fast-paced - perhaps a little too fast paced given all the various stories playing out at once. Still, the supporting cast is wonderful and Mark Gatiss' script true to the original concept and portrayal of The Ice Warriors. Hopefully we won't have to wait another 38 years for their next appearance.

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Green Arrow #19 - A Review

April 15, 2013, 9:58 am

≫ Next: Earth 2 #11 - A Review

≪ Previous: Doctor Who, Series 7 - Episode 8 - Cold War

Green Arrow #19 is an action-movie captured on the printed page. Writer Jeff Lemire manages the neat trick of presenting an issue that is basically one extended fight scene between Green Arrow and his new archer-enemy Kodomo while still presenting relevant exposition regarding asurprising revelation. Namely, that Oliver Queen was being prepared for some grand destiny by his father besides running the family company and Oliver's father was much more than a simple billionaire industrialist.

Lemire has a perfect partner in artist Andrea Sorrentino. Sorrentino captures the pacing of Lemire's scripts eloquently, using unique tricks like panels overlaying a static background to show the progess of the fight. Sorrentito also produces some poster-worthy images, such as the splash-page where Kodomo's young daughter enters the fight.

Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino are slowly but surely becoming one of the comic world's finest teams. Through that partnership, they are transforming Green Arrow into something unlike anything we've ever seen before with the character of Oliver Queen yet still familiar enough for it not to seem completely out of place. If you haven't started reading this series already, track down this issue as well as Issues #17 and #18 before it is too late. You don't want to wait on the trade for this one, believe me!

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Earth 2 #11 - A Review

April 15, 2013, 11:50 am

≫ Next: Batman #19 - A Review

≪ Previous: Green Arrow #19 - A Review

There are many points of interest in Earth 2 #9 and James Robinson - no stranger to involved storylines - does a masterful job of balancing them all. The lion's share of the issue is focused upon the creation of a new Doctor Fate - a revelation I have no trouble spoiling given that this issue's cover reveals that fact and they have been building to this moment for several issues now. Yet amid this momentous occasion, Robinson manages to sneak in even more story, such as a full background for the mysterious mage Wotan and the appearance of two more Jack Kirby creations I'm surprised we have not seen sooner in the New 52.

Nicola Scott's artwork is as fine as ever. Indeed, fine is too small a word for Scott's prowess. Detailed without being obscuring, Nicola Scott's pencils are enhanced by the equally skillful inks of Trevor Scott. I'd be hard pressed to pick the best looking book on the market, but Earth 2 would easily make my personal Top 5.

I wish all the New 52 series showed the care and craft that seems to have gone into the creation and definition of Earth 2. The stories are action-packed with engaging characters. The artwork is crisp and beautiful. This is a book every fan of the comics medium should be reading!

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Batman #19 - A Review

April 15, 2013, 12:15 pm

≫ Next: Green Lantern Corps #19 - A Review

≪ Previous: Earth 2 #11 - A Review

Long-time Bat-fans will likely figure out the mystery of Batman #19 long before it is revealed. When you have multiple cases of mistaken identity in a Bat-book, there is one likely suspect that comes to mind straight away. Thankfully, Scott Snyder does put an interesting wrinkle into a well-established villain's bag of tricks that will keep the interest of even the most jaded of readers. Moreover, the action sequences, penciled by Greg Capullo with inks by Danny Miki, will thrill everyone regardless of whether or not they can deduce just how Bruce Wayne seems to be robbing banks and shooting it out with the police.

The back-up story by James Tynion IV will offer chills and surprises to all. Eerily illustrated by long-time Daredevil artist Alex Maleev in his usual shadowy style, this story depicts a Superman/Batman team-up in the days following Damian Wayne's death. It spoils little to say that the case proves to have a supernatural element to it and it is an interesting juxtaposition to see the more realistic Dark Knight Detective and the magic-vulnerable Man of Steel suddenly pressed into a situation neither of them is fully capable of handling.

If you're only going to read one Batman book a month, this is the one to get. The writing in both stories is always impressive. The artwork is gloriously grotesque in a Gothic fashion that perfectly suits the world involved. Simply put, this is a damn fine book.

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Green Lantern Corps #19 - A Review

April 16, 2013, 4:55 am

≫ Next: Awesome New Man Of Steel Trailer is Awesome!

≪ Previous: Batman #19 - A Review

When I think of writer Peter Tomasi, I think of one thing above all others - excellent dialogue. Curiously, Green Lantern Corps #19 has very little of this. Indeed, most of the issue is made up of splash pages and two-page sequences with multiple panels free of word balloons, as the Green Lanterns on Oa - freed from the influence of the First Lantern by a newly revived Mogo - fight an army of rage and fear-based constructs.

The action of the issue is well-paced and proves Tomasi as capable of writing a fight sequence as he is writing a lively conversation. It also showcases the abilities of penciler Fernando Pasarin and inker Scott Hanna. Every page of this book is gorgeous, with a complex amount of detail going into each panel.

If this issue has a flaw it is that, like most of the Green Lantern titles right now, it is largely inaccessible to new readers. To Tomasi's credit, the action of this issue is easily understood but a first-time reader would be completely clueless as to who Mogo is and the significance of Mogo's return, to say nothing of the larger Wrath of the First Lantern storyline. Green Lantern Corps #19 probably won't win over any new readers but it will please established fans of the series.

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Awesome New Man Of Steel Trailer is Awesome!

April 16, 2013, 5:39 pm

≫ Next: Injustice: Gods Among Us #14 - A Review

≪ Previous: Green Lantern Corps #19 - A Review

... I got chills watching this. It's that good! But the best part? That line...

"It's not an 'S'. On my world, it means 'Hope'."

Perfect. Somewhere, I think Christopher Reeve is smiling.

June 14th can't come fast enough.

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Injustice: Gods Among Us #14 - A Review

April 16, 2013, 6:56 pm

≫ Next: Arrow #28 (Web Comic) - A Review

≪ Previous: Awesome New Man Of Steel Trailer is Awesome!

Injustice #14 escalates the battle between the heroes who value liberty over security(i.e. Batman) and those who wish to bring about safety at any cost (i.e. Damn near everyone else). After thwarting Two-Face's attack on the Channel 2 News anchors in Gotham City, Superman promises that he and the Justice League will do something about Arkham Asylum once and for all. Naturally, Batman is less than pleased about this announcement. He's even less pleased when his sidekicks either outright refuse to help him stop Superman or play the Devil's Advocate for Superman's point of view.

Tom Taylor's scripts continue to impress me. It would be all too easy for Superman to be portrayed as a power-mad tyrant but Taylor's take on the Man of Steel shows that he's still the same charming gentleman he's always been when it comes to dealing with law-abiding citizens. Even knowing what he's done, you can't help but like the guy as he talks about his dead wife and smiles when someone apologizes for saying she was the better reporter. The drama between Bruce and his sons is also well played and the dialogue is perfectly suited towards each character.

The artwork by Jheremy Raapack is not quite so inspiring. Rappack is not a bad artist but his particular style is better suited toward illustrating Batman stories than the more colorful exploits of Superman. The sequences set in the Batcave look quite good but the inking on the scenes with Superman in the TV studio seem overly dark.

Apart from that one issue, this is a fine comic and well worth the price of a download. I don't know how many Injustice fans will be up for reading a comic on this, the day of the game's release. I just hope that some of them - who aren't regular comic readers - come across this issue later. It may well make them into fans of the medium.

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Arrow #28 (Web Comic) - A Review

April 17, 2013, 7:49 am

≫ Next: Demon Knights #19 - A Review

≪ Previous: Injustice: Gods Among Us #14 - A Review

I don't recall precisely where but I do remember reading somebody complain about the character of John Diggle and how patently unrealistic it would be for a career soldier to aid and abet a vigilante like Oliver Queen. While I think this is one of the most minor of nits to pick over when discussing the realism of Arrow, I can see the point. Soldiers are meant to preserve law and order and are trained to live and breathe structure and discipline. Taken in that context, it does seem rather unlikely that John Diggle's reaction to finding out his boss was an outlaw would be anything other than contacting the police.

I don't know if Arrow #28 was written in direct response to this question but it does provide an effective answer regardless. Indeed, this may be the best single issue of the web-comic so far. The main meat of the issue focuses upon John Diggle, in flashback, as he launched his own investigation into his brother's murder. Suffice it to say, the story makes it clear that even before he met Oliver Queen, John Diggle was not a man to blindly follow orders.

The script by Katherine Walczak offers new insight into John Diggle's character. We get to see how Diggle's brief venture into vigilantism made him sympathetic to Ollie's cause. More, we see how Diggle comes very close to crossing several lines and see why he's chosen to help Ollie as well as why he's been so tough on Ollie - to keep him from making the mistakes Diggle almost made himself.

The artwork by Xermanico is perfectly suited toward the story. The action of the issue is well-depicted and flows naturally from panel to panel. The inks are appropriately light or heavy as needed. And actor David Ramsey's likeness is perfectly captured within the pencils.

If you're an Arrow fan in need of a fix this week, you'd do well to pick up this issue. The story is a good one with artwork to match. There's a good balance of action and drama as well as some wonderful character scenes. All in all, I'd say this issue is a must-read for all fans of the series and a steal at 99 cents to download.

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Demon Knights #19 - A Review

April 18, 2013, 6:03 pm

≫ Next: Superman:The Movie - Live Tweet Commentary

≪ Previous: Arrow #28 (Web Comic) - A Review

In my review of last month's issue of Demon Knights, I wondered what torments Lucifer would have in store for Jason Blood. You'll recall that Jason had devised a way to strike back at Etrigan - the demon to whom he is bound - by staying in Hell, thus depriving Etrigan of any chance to renew his powers. Jason bravely - but unwisely - dared Lucifer to do his worst, saying that after many years trapped in the dungeons of his former comrade Vandal Savage, there was little horror Hell could hold for him. Sadly, we get little chance to see what Lucifer (who I dare say is now my favorite character in this series) had in store for him as it turns out there are some things even The Devil fears and a world full of vampires fits that bill neatly. For what profit is there for a collector of souls in a world full of souless immortals?

This idea shows the menace that the vampire lord Cain poses far better than any fighting scene we've had thus far in the series. Sadly, the rest of the issue suffers a bit in the wake of that revelation. Interesting as it is to see Hippolyta and the other Amazons opposing an vampire invasion of Themyscira alongside the Demon Knights, the whole battle seems somewhat flat given how uninteresting the vampires themselves are as a menace and how dull Cain is as a recurring villain. The drama involving Sir Ystin, at least, promises some interesting drama in the issues to come but most of the book's established cast is lost amid the action scenes, with little of the personality Paul Cornell gave them.

At least the artwork by Bernard Change continues to exceed expectations. Chang is highly valued for his ability to provide detailed pencils without cluttering the page. His inks, too, prove just right - not too thick nor too light. It's just enough to save this off-issue. With any hope, things will be back above par next month.

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Superman:The Movie - Live Tweet Commentary

April 18, 2013, 9:35 pm

≫ Next: Hawkeye #9 - A Review

≪ Previous: Demon Knights #19 - A Review

In honor of the 75th anniversary of Superman and Lois Lane's first appearance in the comics, I watched the first Superman movie and Live-Tweeted my comments. Here now is my commentary.

Does the old #WarnerBrothers logo looks weird now to anyone else? #Superman

Just now looked up Geoffrey Unsworth, to whom the movie is dedicated. Cinematographer on #Superman, 2001 a Space Odyssey and many more!

Still get chills at this opening after all these years. Like I'm five years old and watching it in my Superman Underoos again. #Superman

Forget the Star Wars theme or Harry Potter. THIS is the best thing John Williams ever wrote. #Superman

Mars. The Red Planet. Wait, no that's a star. Great Rao! That's Rao! #Superman

The first spoken words in this movie, not counting the boy at the start reading Action Comics #1, are "This is no fantasy". #Superman

I love how Marlon Brando pronounces Krypton "Crypt-Tin". #Superman

Wow, the vote to condemn someone of treason has to be unanimous? And I thought the Super Majority in the US Senate was stupid. #Superman

Um... Zod? Not helping your case if you tell Jor-El to join you in treason in front of the rest of the council. Just saying... #Superman

This whole sequence with the Phantom Zone looks like a prog rock album cover. #Superman

I'm trying not to make like #MST3K, but it's so hard not to make global warming jokes listening to Krypton's High Council. #Superman

And I wonder, not for the first time, if Al Gore is building a baby-size rocket somewhere. #Superman

"Why Earth, Jor-El?" Because a man named Jack Knight gave me the coordinates when I was a teenager! #Starman #Superman @JamesDRobinson

Given the level of FX at the time, the destruction of Krypton is good. Even if it does now remind me of The Poseidon Adventure. #Superman

So #Krypton is way more advanced than Earth, yet little Kal-El is STILL being taught about Einstein and Chinese writing? #Superman

Why? Are those pre-school topics for Kryptonian toddlers? Or was Jor-El the quiz bowl champion of Krypton? #Superman

"Remember what Doc Fry said about that heart of yours." FORESHADOWING! #Superman

Nice practical effect with the baby Kal-El holding up the car. #Superman

Love the actor who plays Teen Clark. Even if he does look well past his teens. You can tell he really wants to punch Brad. #Superman

And yeah... just realized I missed a golden opportunity for a "Brad" #ASSHOLE joke there. Sorry. #RockyHorror #Superman

Love that quick little gag with a young #LoisLane and her family on the train. "Nobody ever believes me!" #Superman

So here's a question - why did the crystal just now start glowing now? Was it waiting for Clark to start needing direction? #Superman

Boy, the death of her husband aged Ma Kent quickly. #Superman

Nice as it is for Clark to arrange for his mom to have help on the farm... couldn't he fly back and do all the chores in seconds? #Superman

Then again, that would leave all the people in Smallville wondering how The Widow Kent was getting on without help. So... yeah. #Superman

Plus I don't think he knew he could really fly then. Not that fast, anyway. So never mind. #Superman

Boy, Clark intuited the directions on how that crystal worked pretty well, didn't he? #Superman

Step One: Throw as far as you can. Step Two: Wait. Step Three; Enjoy your new crystal palace. #Superman

Truly Krypton was an advanced civilization! They evolved beyond the need for contractors. Just throw a crystal and BOOM! Housing! #Superman

"My son. You do not remember me." Well, yeah... I was like 14 months when I last saw you! #Superman

"It is time for questions to be asked." "What, like why I've got hair on..." "Not those questions!" #Superman

Carl Sagan's Cosmos. As read by Marlon Brando. #Superman

So... Clark spent 12 years standing in the Fortress of Solitude getting more tutoring from Jor-El? That seems... excessive. #Superman

"There's only one 'p' in rapist". Man. I'm surprised they let that into a nominal family movie back in the 70s. #Superman

"And don't call me sugar!" Nice twist on the usual gag from the comics. Surprise the fans a bit. #Superman

Christopher Reeve was a highly underrated actor. He played dorky Clark Kent so well. Made him seem real. #Superman

Also, Margot Kidder as #LoisLane. The way she handles the mugger? Dropping her purse only to try and kick the guy? Perfect. #Superman

And the whole bit with Clark knowing precisely what is in Lois's purse? And saying it was a lucky guess? Perfect. #Superman

@flamingtoilet - The best moment is in the Donner cut of SII when he's tricked by Lois. Just a simple change in body language and he changes.

@GeekyGeekyWays Oh yes. It's very subtle how he changes. Even in the split second when he's grabbing the bullet to save her.

Is there an entry on #TVTropes for a Law of Henchman Stupidity? All genius villains must employ only total idiots? #Superman

I ask because if Lex Luthor was that smart, you'd think he'd get better help than Otis. He's even worse than Beastman for Skeletor #Superman

‏ 200 is significant to you and me Otis!

@GeekyGeekyWays Ah for the days when 200 was considered grossly overweight.

distant memories

"When I was six years old, my father said to me -" "GET OUT?!" "Hahaha. Before that!"

"Why does the world's most brilliantly diabolical leader surround himself with total nincompoops?" My thoughts exactly, Lex! #Superman

The obvious answer? Lex isn't nearly as smart as he thinks. He just keeps an idiot around to make himself feel smart. #Superman

I reread @MarkWaid's Birthright earlier today and now I'm wondering- how many #Superman origins involve a flying vehicle crash?

@MarkWaid - I'm a big believer that, in all incarnations of the origin, the first time the public sees Superman, he should be flying.

@SizzlerKistler - I remember us talking about this years ago. Total agreement. It's what he is.

@AndrewMedley2 i don't think that always a case with Superman what make superman a hero is do right thing and inspired other

@SizzlerKistler We weren't talking about what makes him a hero, we were talking about what visually works for an introduction.

@EdTheRevelator - in order to clearly convey to humans he is "super?" Not criticizing, more asking for clarity

@MarkWaid- Because to most people, that's the most magical thing about him, that he flies.

@EdTheRevelator Thanks for answering!

@Myles_Lobdell Of course he didn't fly originally.

@GeekyGeekyWaysNo, but it's become his quintessential power. because of its' sheer impossibility. #YoullBelieveAManCanFly
@GeekyGeekyWaysA man lifting a car or surviving a bullet wound can be easily faked. But a man flying? Now that's something...

@thejennyhoffmanDo you say that because that signature image sets up his uniqueness or because that sets up the story to come?

@MarkWaid The former. To most people, that's his defining and/or most awe-inspiring super-power.

@GeekyGeekyWays It's also the one that can't be easily explained by trickery. The one that lets you know "He Is Real".

@GeekCommissar More than that. Flying is "something wonderful". Hitting people, or getting hit, whilst a big part of what he does, isn't as inspiringly hopeful as a flying man.

@jeffparker I get irate when he's shown hovering over people, he's not Miracle Man, he'd land.

@GeekyGeekyWays It's a lot of things. The most god-llike power. The most hope-inspiring. The hardest to fake.

Even in 1978, they were making jokes about there being no phone booths for #Superman to change costume in.

And here we are. 1:11 in and we're just now seeing #Superman clearly in costume.

@bobkatt013 Truly a perfect scene https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCLi3_-iXHk …

#ManOfSteel needs to have a scene of #Superman looking for a place to change & seeing a line of people standing outside on their cel phones.

"Statistically speaking, of course, it's still the safest way to travel." BWAHAHAHA! #Superman

And now comes the part where Clark shows off and the movie starts to veer into #Superdickery territory. #Superman

Case in Point: The cat burglar who suddenly finds a guy standing on the wall above him. "Something wrong with the elevator?"

"They say confession's good for the soul. I'd listen to what this man has to say. Take him away!" #Superman

Of course as #VentureBrothers pointed out, that doesn't really work. Nothing to stop the burglar from avoiding self-incrimination. #Superman

"A big red cape with bright red boots!" Love how the cop fixates on that and not the red underwear over blue tights! #Superman

Ah, the casual drunk Irish cops. There's a stereotype you don't see anymore. #Superman

Haha! Child abuse is funny! #NoItIsNot #DifferentTime #SupermanMovie

THERE'S A MAN ON THE WING OF THE PLANE! #Superman #TwilightZone

"You... enjoyed it." Oooooh. You're gonna get it now, Clark! #Superman

Ha! I love #Superman correcting his dad's hologram on how many hours are in an Earth day.

"My son, I could embrace you in my arms." "If I had arms... I'm just a big damn head. Bit of a design flaw, that..." #Superman

"gen-yoo-wine article" Ye gods, that accent. #Superman

Umm... just a, just a...." Yeah. Reeve may sound like Superman as Clark, but the words are all wrong. #Superman

Again, Reeve was a great actor. Developed Clark and Superman as two different beings physically and verbally. #Superman

"Sorry to drop in like this, Miss Lane..." That joke would be a groaner if anyone else had said it back then. #Superman

"I never drink when I fly." Or that line. #Superman

"How big are you? I mean, how tall are you?" Hee hee. #Superman #LoisLane

"Do you... eat?" then "What color underwear am I wearing?" Oh, #LoisLane you naughty minx.... #Superman

And the way #Superman is smiling after he puts Lois off balance when he answers her underwear question. Hee hee.

"Do you like pink?" "I like pink very much, Lois." #Superman #LoisLane #Innuendo

How sad is it I have an explanation for why #LoisLane doesn't freeze to death during the flying sequence during #SupermanTheMovie? #Superman

Same reason #LoisLane can fly with #Superman just holding her hand. His invulnerability aura is also protecting her. #SupermanTheMovie

I know some hate it, but I like the whole "Can You Read My Mind?" interlude from #SupermanTheMovie.

"Can you read my mind? Can you picture the things I'm thinking of?" Yes, and you should be ashamed of yourself, #LoisLane! #Superman

Seriously, it's a very sweet magical scene. #LoisLane allowing herself to be vulnerable and being surprised at how good it feels. #Superman

It's nice because #LoisLane is such a strong character and she usually hates being in a position of weakness. #Superman

And here she is, in over her head, out of her element... and she loves it. #Superman #LoisLane

I want #LexLuthor's library in this movie. #SupermanTheMovie #Superman

I do like Gene Hackman in this movie but I don't think he plays a good Lex Luthor. because this character isn't really Lex Luthor #Superman

There's no mad science involved. He's a brilliant criminal, no doubt. But #LexLuthor here isn't very Lex like. #Superman

Case In Point: The real #LexLuthor would have his minion drive the get-away ambulance while he reprogrammed the missile. #Superman

Still, give this guy points for being able to improvise on the fly and getting a hold of a cowboy outfit on short notice. #Superman

Jimmy Olsen wears a #BowTie now. Bowties are cool. #Superman

Wait... just sent Young Olsen on his first assignment? How do you keep him on staff and just NOW send him out on an assignment? #Superman

There isn't a lot of Jimmy Olsen in this movie, now that I think of it. Certainly not enough for him to be considered a Pal. #Superman

Actually... wait, he hasn't met #Superman once in this thing! He isn't Superman's Pal at all! And he only got Clark Kent coffee once!

Phenomenal practical effects here... #Superman walking through fire.

"I don't need a geography lesson from you, Luthor." Wow. And they say #Superman is never sarcastic or rude. #DontYouBelieveIt

#Otisberg? OTISBERG? OTISBERG?! #SupermanTheMovie #Superman

I'll say this for #LexLuthor - you don't see many bad guys who set up a tile floor map for their evil gloating. #Superman

#YouDiseasedManiac! "I'll mold this lead into your prison bars!" Damn. #Superman is hard-core.

I'm still amazed by all the practical effects and model work in this movie that looks so real. #Superman

Nice non-verbal acting from Reeve. Looking satisfied at a job well done, then his face changes as he hears #LoisLane in trouble. #Superman

I can't imagine how amazing this must have been at the time... the idea that #Superman failed to save #LoisLane.

@MayhemComics

@GeekyGeekyWays it was crazy! Really weird thing to see as a kid

So here's a question... if he can go back in time to save #LoisLane, why didn't he also go back to save his dad? #Superman

And that little sigh #Superman gives as #LoisLane begins shouting at him. Because he knows she's all-right. #SupermanTheMovie

#Superman isn't spinning the Earth backwards to reverse time. He's flying around it super-fast.

And that iconic moment. The sun rising from Earth orbit as #Superman flies around to face it.

Small wonder they chose that to represent Louis finally being able to see the sun in a movie in #InterviewWithTheVampire #SupermanTheMovie

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Hawkeye #9 - A Review

April 20, 2013, 12:37 pm

≫ Next: Doctor Who, Series 7 - Episode 9 - Hide

≪ Previous: Superman:The Movie - Live Tweet Commentary

There is no small irony that Hawkeye #9 should leave me unsatisfied on the same week that the series was nominated for multiple Eisner Awards. The sad fact is that this issue has little of the humor or action that made the previous issues so enjoyable. Dead. That's the only word I can use to describe it. This book is dead.

Generally, I hold a preference for DC Comics heroes over Marvel Comics's simply because I find so many of the Marvel heroes - particularly those among The Avengers - disagreeable as characters. I accept that heroic characters need not always be likeable nor do they always need to act in admirable ways but I read superhero books to be inspired and to get away from unreasonable personalities. This is not to say that this issue is badly written. Far from it. It's just a matter of what I enjoy reading and this issue... well, this issue wasn't enjoyable. There's none of the fun that previous Hawkeye issues held.

With two exceptions - Black Widow and Kate Bishop, I found every character in this issue to be wholly unsympathetic. Clint Barton spends the entire issue moping around his apartment while the women in his life are investigating - and cleaning up - the latest mess in his life. Mockingbird shows up to finalize their divorce paperwork on Valentine's Day and adds insult to injury by calling attention to that fact. And Jessica "Spider Woman" Drew is revealed to be a physically abusive girlfriend. Thankfully, Clint refuses to tolerate this (and a good thing too considering she has super strength), so kudos to Matt Fraction for refusing to play this scene for laughs. Regardless, this issue is low on action and high on unpleasant people being rude to one another. If I wanted to read that, I could go read the comments on any Yahoo News article.

At least the artwork by David Aja and Matt Hollingsworth is as fine as ever. I struggle to find words to describe Aja's distinctive style, which is unlike any artist I can think of. Hollingsworth's coloring, as always, adds another unique level to the issue's proceedings. While the story left me flat this month, I have no complaints about the artwork.

Can I recommend this series? Yes. Would I recommend this issue? No. In terms of story, nothing of note happens until the last page and in terms of character nothing happens apart from it being made clear that Clint Barton is once again single in no uncertain terms. Go pick up the TPB collection of the early issues if you want to see what all the excitement is about. There's no excitement to be found in this issue.

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Doctor Who, Series 7 - Episode 9 - Hide

April 20, 2013, 6:00 pm

≫ Next: Doctor Who - Prisoners of Time #4 - A Review

≪ Previous: Hawkeye #9 - A Review

THE QUICK, SPOILER FREE REVIEW

Another solid episode in the Classic Who mold, with a seemingly standard genre story being twisted around into a science-fiction epic that works on multiple levels. Those who were disappointed by last week's episode not contributing much in the way of character development for Clara or continuing the storyline regarding The Doctor trying to solve her mystery will not find this episode as lacking.

THE PLOT

It was a dark and stormy night on November 25, 1974, asProfessor Alec Palmer and his assistant - the psychic Emma Grayling - are investigating reports of a local ghost known as The Witch of the Well. They are surprised - but not displeased - when a mysterious Doctor (who knows far more about them than even The Ministry should) shows up with his assistant, Clara. He goes along with their guess that he's come to make sure everything is going okay on behalf of the government. But Emma can't shake the feeling that there's more to it than that and that there's a cold liar's heart behind the joking exterior of The Doctor. Worse, she can't shake the feeling that The Witch is talking to her. And then there's the matter of a strange, crooked man lurking in the shadows of the house...

THE GOOD PARTS

* The Classic Who fans will have a field day with this episode. Neil Cross' script feels like an old Robert Holmes piece in all the right ways, with lots of dark, mysterious elements. There's also another Pertwee-era reference, as The Doctor requires a blue crystal from Metebelis III (which The Third Doctor was continually trying to take Jo Grant on a day trip to visit) to build a stargate.

* Lots of amazing visuals, particularly the images of the various points in time with The Doctor moving around time while staying in one space. There are many moments in this episode that, captured in still-frame, would make a brilliant wallpaper for a phone or computer background.

* The mystery of Clara and her relation to the other Clara's deepens quite a bit in this episode. Ignoring the revelation that she is psychically ordinary at the end, we also see more evidence that Present Clara is quite different than The Snowmen Clara. Last week, we saw that she was actually willing to follow The Doctor's orders about staying put and not wandering off on her own. This time, we see her actually being scared to go off even when The Doctor asks her too - a definite change from most of the companions in the Modern Doctor Who stories

* Despite Clara showing a cowardly streak, the banter between The Doctor and her is much improved. Indeed, I dare say the interplay between Matt Smith and Jenna-Louise Coleman is the best we've seen since The Snowmen.

THE PROBLEMS

* Some of the digital effects are a bit dodgy, particularly the wormhole.

* Similarly, The Crooked Man costume also doesn't look that great when we get a clear look at it. Thankfully this doesn't happen until the very end.

THE FINAL VERDICT

Like Cold War last week, Hide is another formulaic episode reminsicent of many classic Doctor Who episodes. What it lacks in originality, it makes up in everything else. The acting is wonderful across the board. The on-going storyline for the half-season progresses beautifully. The only weak spots are the special effects and the costume, which are far from the worst the series has ever seen. A great episode!

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Doctor Who - Prisoners of Time #4 - A Review

April 21, 2013, 8:12 pm

≫ Next: STOP C.I.S.P.A.

≪ Previous: Doctor Who, Series 7 - Episode 9 - Hide

It's been a few months since I picked up Doctor Who: Prisoners of Time. As you may recall, I was less than impressed with the first issueand the cost of the issues ($3.99 each) left me thinking I might be better off waiting for the inevitable trade collection. Still, the Tom Baker incarnation of The Doctor is my favorite and my Friendly Local Comic Book Shop saw fit to set aside a copy of this issue for me. So I decided - why not? I'll give it a go again. And I'm quite pleased to have done so.

Visually, this book is a definite improvement on the first issue. I found the style reminiscent of that used for depicting the adventures of The Fourth Doctor in the old Marvel UK Doctor Who comics. The established characters are all well caricatured and the action of the issue flows well from panel to panel. Hats off to Gary Erskine and Mike Collins for a job well done!

In terms of story, this issue is on par with the first and continues the idea of telling previously untold tales of The Doctor's past with elements from the new series being added in. The plot focuses upon The Fourth Doctor, his best friend K-9 and his current companion - the savage warrior woman Leela. The trio must locate a stolen jewel before the planet they are visiting is torn apart by the Judoon mercenary police officers who have been brought in to locate the gem at any cost. The script by David and Scott Tipton is fun and well-paced, perfectly capturing the spirit of all the established characters.

I'd rate this comic as a Must-Read piece of work. The artwork is good, perfectly capturing the feel of a classic Doctor Who comic. The story is action-packed and interesting. Really, there's no good reason not to get this comic if you're a fan of Doctor Who in general and The Fourth Doctor and Leela in particular.

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STOP C.I.S.P.A.

April 21, 2013, 10:01 pm

≫ Next: Red Sonja #74 - A Review

≪ Previous: Doctor Who - Prisoners of Time #4 - A Review

Greetings United States gov,

We are the Internet. Again, you are trying to pass this ridiculous CISPA law in order to control and censor the people. This will not stand. You already control the media, the economy, the criminal underworld, your national plots and our energy. YOU WILL NOT GET OUR INTERNET!

The U.S. law that would turn Google, Facebook, and Twitter into legally untouchable government spies just passed the House.

This bill affects everyone — not just U.S. citizens. Anyone with a Facebook account could now have their data shipped directly to the U.S. government. That’s why Internet users overwhelmingly oppose this bill. Over 1.5 million people signed petitions against it. But Congress didn’t listen. This law broadened the state terror and repression of the people. By allowing corporations to track our every action on the internet the state and corporations will be merged and that we have seen before: it is called fascism.

We are going dark on MONDAY April 22nd at 6 AM GMT for 24 hours to protest your illogical and terrorizing bill against the Internet itself. Even with the whole Internet crying out to stop this BILL, the US House of Representatives failed to do so blinded by lobbyist's money and cum in your eyes. So we will take action ourselves and open your eyes. Every popular/mainstream websites will be black until you, Mr. DronObama promise us to use your VETO power to stop this bill at Senate. Take this as a protest or a warning, as you wish. One thing is for certain, neither you or anyone else in this world can control the Internet, so don't even try. Stop wasting taxpayers' money into doing these kind of shenanigans.

We are Anonymous.
We are Legion.
We do not Forgive.
We do not Forget.
Expect us.

Follow @SageAnon on twitter for updates.

Join The Fight!

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Red Sonja #74 - A Review

April 22, 2013, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Doctor Who #8 (IDW Vol. 3) - A Review

≪ Previous: STOP C.I.S.P.A.

To quote Robert E. Howard, this issue of Red Sonja left me "with gigantic melancholies and gigantic mirth". As eagerly as I am anticipating Gail Simone's upcoming run on this series, I will miss the writing of Eric Trautmann, who wove many a complex tale and gave Sonja companions as interesting as herself. This penultimate issue gives Trautmann a chance to begin guiding everything towards an epic conclusion, as Sonja orchestrates what promises to be an epic clash of multiple armies.

So where are the gigantic melancholies I spoke of? In the artwork of Marcio Abreu. While this comic is not quite as offensive as previous issues in terms of odd twistings of the spine and neck, we are "treated" to another miracle school-girl panty shot on the very first page! I will admit that my complaining about cheesecake artwork in a Red Sonja comic is a fool's errand but other artists who indulge in this sort of thing do keep things within the realm of realism. Sonja's traditional costume does allow ample opportunities for fan-service but panty shots are not one of them!

If you're looking to get into Red Sonja, consider some of the TP collections or just wait two months when we're sure to get a rollicking good introduction under Gail Simone's pen. This issue is good for what it is - cheesy artwork aside - but it's hardly a good gateway issue into the wild and weird adventures of Hyboria's favorite daughter.

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Doctor Who #8 (IDW Vol. 3) - A Review

April 23, 2013, 5:00 am

≫ Next: Injustice: Gods Among Us #15 - A Review

≪ Previous: Red Sonja #74 - A Review

Doctor Who #8 begins with a helpful recap for those who might have missed Issue #7. It's a nice touch which harkens back to the classic days of comics and it doesn't seem at all awkward as it comes from The Eleventh Doctor talking to himself out-loud about what's just happened and how he can deal with it. It sounds very much like Matt Smith and Joshua Hale Fialkov deserves praise for that nice touch. Sadly, that's one of the few things I can praise him for.

I mentioned in my review of the previous issue that the drama of the story rang false, given that the main problem (i.e. The Doctor is trapped on a dead ship in Earth orbit surrounded by flesh-eating monsters that thrive on darkness) came about because of a completely unexplained event that flew in the face of established characterization (i.e. The TARDIS sealing itself so The Doctor couldn't get into it). That problem continues in this issue, when we find out the Vashta Nerada still managed to get inside The TARDIS despite it sealing itself so they couldn't get inside.

How? Because the story says they need to so there's a little more drama after The Doctor and his Special Guest Companion Cosmonaut Alexey Leonov solve the problem of moving a dead rocket out of Earth orbit and into the gravitation pull of the inert TARDIS. It's a minor point, but it does make the whole story feel forced. Honestly, the story would have worked just as well without the Vashta Nerada being involved at all.

Thankfully, the art team is still top-notch. Andres Ponces and Horacio Domingues doe a bang-up job of caricaturing Matt Smith.and a young Alexey Leonov. Inker Ruben Gonzales utilizes just the right amount of shadow to highlight and darken everything. I may grouse about the plot of the book but I have no complaints about the artwork.

On the whole, this issue is worth picking up if you already got last month's issue. You have to know how the story ended, right? However, if you're a newbie Whovian who is just getting into the comics, I'd advise you to download the first two issues of the current series instead of this two-parter.

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