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Review: The Golden Girls Stop the Apocalypse in ASH & THORN #1

Writer Mariah McCourt and artist Soo Lee join forces to create a comic about a pair of retirees charged with saving the planet from Lovecraftian annihilation in “Ash & Thorn” #1. With colors from Pippa Bowland and letters from Rob Stein, this first issue offers an intriguing and lever start to this comedic horror comic, despite some missed opportunities in the writing and plot.

“The apocalypse is nigh! The world needs a Champion, and the only heir to a sacred mystical lineage is…a little old lady? Meet Lottie Thorn, reluctant savior of the world, and her also-elderly trainer Lady Peruvia Ashlington-Voss. They might not look it, but these women are prepared to take on any Big Bad that comes along. But first, perhaps a nice cup of tea?”

Writing & Plot

Mariah McCourt‘s self-proclaimed mixture of  The Golden Girls and  Buffy the Vampire Slayer in “Ash & Thorn” #1 is a clever and inviting premise. The overt comedy and irony of this pair of old women tasked with defending the world from eldritch horrors while bickering and baking makes for a charming read. The dialogue between the two leads is sharp and fun and sells the notion that these are two very different women. Peruvia stammering out spells and instructions while Lottie bashes giant spiders over the head with an iron skillet is a good time. The arch-villain seems like a stereotypical doom-and-gloom monster at this stage, but that’s perfectly okay for a comic such as this. Despite the positives here, it has to be said that there was a missed opportunity with this opening issue in terms of character building. The comic shifts between starting out a week after the two leads meet, and the exact moment when Peruvia came to Lottie in the first place. While origin and training montages are an old cliche, such sequences would have worked wonders in developing the plot and shaping the dynamic between the two women. As it is, the story itself feels a bit rushed and scattered. This could have been a decision based on the fact that this is only set to be a 5-issue mini-series and fitting so much story in that span can be a challenge, but it is worth noting. Regardless, this is still a fun experience in the reading department.

Art Direction

Artist Soo Lee and Colorist Pippa Bowland craft a detailed yet suitably lo-fi visual style for “Ash & Thorn” #1. Lee’s pencils provide a neat mix of simple overall design for many of the monsters and characters, yet also hold an impressive amount of visual detail. This is especially noticeable in the facial details of the lead characters. Simple adjustments like smirks and brow lifts provide even more characterization than the dialogue and bring the two women to life in a remarkable manner. Bowland’s colors are what make up much of the lo-fi aesthetic I mention earlier, mostly relying on single shades for most objects. However, this adds to the charm of the comic and is almost reminiscent of something out of Mike Mignola’s library (this comic actually reminded me a bit of Mr. Higgins Comes Home and Our Encounters With Evil). A style more focused on high visual fidelity would have cost this comic some of its inherent charm and the effect of its humor. Finally, the letters from Rob Steen provide considerable tone and character to the dialogue, with considerable changes in fonts and bolds to highlight specific speakers or shifting tones. The purposeful sketchbook quality of the visuals here do great service to the storytelling style “Ash & Thorn” is attempting to convey.

“Ash & Thorn” #1 is a slightly messy but overall promising first chapter to this horror-tinged comedy. The concept of these two very different old women being put in charge of saving the world from ancient horrors is a fun premise, even if this issue stumbles a bit in delivering much characterization. The lo-fi but detailed art works wonders in establishing the tone this comic is reaching for. Hopefully, the minor storytelling flaws will prove to just be first issue woes, and the series can reach its full potential as it continues its run. If watching the Golden Girls take on interdimensional monsters sounds like your kind of fun, then be sure to grab this debut issue when it hits stands at your local comic shop on 6/24!

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Review: THOR #5 – Facing the Black Winter!

Thor #5, part five of its “Devourer King” arc from Marvel Comics, hits your local comic book shop on June 24. Donny Cates continues writing his story, putting his stamp on the God of Thunder’s ongoing tale. He is joined by artist Nic Klein, colorist Matt Wilson, and letterer VC’s Joe Sabino.

Writing

Cates had some big shoes to fill, taking over for Jason Aaron, who crafted an epic Thor run of his own, but Cates seems up to the challenge, creating a personal story for Thor that is also cosmic in scope. While issues 2-4 did seem to lag a little bit, getting taken up by the Thor/Beta Ray Bill/Lady Sif conflict, issue 5 finds Thor and Galactus confronting and being consumed by the Black Winter. Previously, Galactus claimed that the Black Winter consumed the universe he originated from and now sought to destroy the current Marvel Universe. Still, by issue’s end, readers discover that all is not as it seems.

Art

Klein’s art is perfect for the high concept, sci-fi/fantasy nature of the story that Cates is telling. He does a good job capturing the emotions on each character’s face, even a despondent Beta Ray Bill, whose alien features could make that task difficult.

However, he is also about to demonstrate the scope of the overwhelming, cosmic conflict Thor finds himself in, while again, conveying the personal emotion that the character is feeling.

The way Klein shows Thor creating a lightning shield for himself, trying to beat back the darkness even while conveying the futility of this attempt as the darkness surrounds him and his terror-filled eyes is a juxtaposition that conveys both the grandeur of the story and the nuances of Thor’s character.

Coloring

Klein’s art is complemented by Wilson’s colors. The grainy speckling that Wilson employs is perfect for demonstrating the mystical character of the Black Winter.

Wilson also does a good job coloring Thor’s hammer, giving it a powerful glow that contrasts it with his often dark surroundings, although sometimes Thor’s lightning comes off looking too solid and almost cartoony compared to the gritty shading Wilson gives to the characters and their surroundings. But that’s a nitpick. This really is a beautiful issue!

Lettering

Sabino conveys the voice of each character well through his lettering. It is pretty standard to use a font that indicates the “old English” feel of the Asgardian dialect. In contrast, Galactus’s lettering indicates that he speaks with an overflow of cosmic power and energy. One can almost hear the voice of Tony Jay from the 1994 Fantastic Four cartoon (I can’t help NOT hearing his voice for Galactus!). The Black Winter conveys a sense of menace, with lettering that reminds me of the lettering in Frank Miller’s Holy Terror, and if THAT doesn’t convey evil, I don’t know what does!

After a bit of a slow down with an overly decompressed conflict with Beta Ray Bill, Cates quickly rushes through the destruction of five planets to bring Thor and Galactus face to face with the Black Winter in this beautifully drawn issue. With the revelation at the end, I can’t wait to see what Cates is planning!

Thor #5 is available in stores now. What did you think of the ending of this issue? Tell us in the comments below.

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SPIDER-HAM #5: How To Tribute And Parody Simultaneously

Spider-Ham #5 Cover

Spider-Ham #5 out this week from Marvel Comics concludes a self-aware series without forcing a joke or meaning. What seems like a shameless adult animation parody gives way to a meaningful tribute to it.

Recap (For the Non-Bingers)

Spider-Ham notices his universe in danger, so he enlists Spider-Man’s help since Ham’s popularity/ego drives his universe’s heroes away. In an ever twisting plot, they find the antagonist to be pop culture-loving X-Men villain Mojo.

Spider-Ham #5 Story

Spider-Ham #5 is very much a meta-commentary by writer Zeb Wells. Who, in addition to comics, is also a writer/director of stop-motion sketch animation. The Robot Chicken/Super Mansion influences are apparent with the Family Guy parody at the beginning. With creators like Butch Hartman dealing with executives who want rip-offs of popular shows, this serves as some catharsis. Mojo practically represents the executives and toxic fandoms all in one. He even outright admits that he doesn’t understand the nuance of including complex topics. Nowhere is that more apparent than when Mojo attempts to use one of the other heroes of Spider-Ham’s world to rip-off Bojack Horseman.

But Spider-Ham #5 uses parody to give way to tribute.

Art

The artwork by Will Robson is surprisingly versatile and practically tells the entire story of Spider-Ham #5. In just the first pages, the Family Guy parody feels lifeless and stiff. But when Porky Pig style commentary breaks the immersion, the dynamic change in artwork shifts the issue’s tone. Even the difference in some characters’ designs goes this way, such as Black Colt into the Bojack knockoff. It’s a violation of comfort that lacks what makes the source material good, that is until the joke turns on Mojo.

The color palette by Erick Arciniega also demonstrates this dynamic. The opening pages have single color areas that are, for the most part, lifeless with few gradients. By the time that immersion’s broken, the pages not only have more realistic blends, but there’s also a yellow saturation resembling old newsprint comic books. This aged/oxidized look helps give Spider-Ham #5 a look of authenticity. Because despite the cartoony influence, this is a comic book through and through.

The lettering by VC’s Joe Carmagna does its part as well in Spider-Ham #5. Most of the wordmark fonts like the laugh track in the first pages look like they were copied and pasted. All while making sure that the voices of characters like Colt (small font) and Thrr (classy font) are authentic. Carmagna ensures they fit on the page without getting in the way of any character’s actions and providing a flow for the reader to follow. With big emotional moments coming in wordmarks that try to burst out of the word balloons.

Spider-Ham #5: Guaranteed A Fun Time

Spider-Ham #5 culminates by thriving in the absurdities of parody and comics. But just because parody makes fun of subjects, that doesn’t mean that people don’t have respect for source material. There are fine lines between comic effect, ridicule, commentary, and tribute. Spider-Ham #5 manages to do all of it in a balanced way.

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IMMORTAL HULK #34 – Sam Sterns: The Immortal Leader

Immortal Hulk #34 cover

Immortal Hulk #34 out this week from Marvel Comics features the return of classic Hulk villain, The Leader. But who is he when he’s not clashing with Hulk through his intellect? Now readers have a chance to find out before another inevitable battle.

Immortal Hulk #34 Story

Taking a break from Hulk’s rampages against the world, Al Ewing introduces Sam Sterns. At first, he seems to be a two-dimensional foil to Marvel’s Green Goliath, the classic Brain vs. Brawn. However, by showing the Leader’s beginnings and what he goes through behind the scenes of his appearances, the reader finds a lifetime of character development and growth. All accented with journal entries that have labels mirroring comic issues e.g., “Journal Entry 2/107”. The phrase “Your Hero is Only as Good as Your Villain” takes a more significant meaning here. Immortal Hulk #34 even has the title of “The Apotheosis of Sam Sterns” as a way of advertising The Leader as a genuine threat towards the Hulk.

Art

To keep The Leader’s story separate from Hulk, guest artists Butch Guice and Tom Palmer serve as penciler and inker of Immortal Hulk #34. Unlike the smoother artwork by Joe Bennett and Ruy José, this is practically a demonstration of Sam Sterns in his growing stages. While powerful with detail, this sets up the grand entrance of The Leader for the coming issues.

Paul Mounts coloring meanwhile has Immortal Hulk #34 retain the horrific feelings the rest of the series evokes. The green light of Gamma energy keeps the feeling of pure terror, yet the Leader uses it nonchalantly. Not just for his nefarious plans but how Sam shapes his identity around Gamma energy. Sometimes it’s quite literally as per taking over a gamma-irradiated scorpion.

As for identity, Cory Petit shows how Sam Sterns and the Leader differentiate themselves. Sterns’ captions match how he writes his journal through a typewriter. All because his ego as the Leader refuses to make his advancement accessible to the average person. But throughout Immortal Hulk #34, Sam notes that he grows a little smarter. One where Sam Sterns and the Leader essentially become one.

Immortal Hulk #34: The Immortal Leader

The Immortal Hulk #34 solidifies itself by developing even what might be the most insignificant pieces of Marvel’s Hulk lore. The Leader was originally little more than a threatening annoyance at best. But now, through a rough but informative flashback, readers see a villain ready to shake the world. The coming clash between the Hulk and Leader will undoubtedly be an epic one.

What do you all think? Was the Leader always a threat, or is this just his time to shine?

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How Stories Come To Life In ONCE & FUTURE #8

Any guesses on who that is on the cover of Once & Future #8?

ONCE & FUTURE #8, out this Wednesday from Boom! Studios, is about to take an even darker turn than ever. The perfect Knight Duncan is not, but he may be setting up to face one. Not to mention all of the other creatures going bump in the night.

Any guesses on who that is on the cover of Once & Future #8?

***SPOILER WARNING***

All things considered, Duncan has taken well to the transition in his life. Once he was a man with a boring life and an estranged family. Now he’s hunting monsters with his grandmother, and acting like that’s totally normal.

Perhaps because, for this family, that actually is normal. A good day is a day you get to walk back home on your own two legs. A lesson that Duncan has already learned, despite his short period of time spent out on the field.

That being said, Once & Future #8 is about to test Duncan in ways he never could have prepared for. His grandmother too, for that matter. This is not a typical tale of monsters versus men. No, this is what happens when stories come to life.

Duncan and his grandmother are on the hunt, but for what?

The Writing

You’d think that coming up against the legend of King Arthur would be the biggest event in Duncan’s career. You’d be wrong. The events in Once & Future #8 have set out to make that abundantly clear. Something has woken up the stories in this world, and they’re not here to play nice.

Written by Kieron Gillen, this is an intense issue from start to finish. Even during the calmer moments, there’s this lingering sense of something horrible about to happen. It’s chilling, especially when one considers everything that is at stake.

While the issue is without a doubt extremely dark at points, there are moments of humor. Especially those with a darker sense of humor. Look to a quote regarding stories and bullets, and you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about here.

The buildup within this issue is on-point. It’s steadily increasing, rising up until it finally explodes outwork. The timing is so perfect, no matter how you look at it. Even if you’re not keen on the story that has been woken, there’s something to be appreciated in the way it is told.

A higher-quality candle is out there waiting to be used in a ritual!

The Art

The artwork found inside Once & Future #8 is something to behold. It’s vibrant and alive – something coming in stark contrast to the stories walking around on the pages. Each panel has something demanding your attention, from the detailing in the background to the horrors occurring at the front.

Dan Mora was the lead artist for this issue. He’s the one that brought these stories back to life, at least as far as the comics are concerned. They’re daunting and larger than life, though some more than others. It’s a unique style, but one that works beautifully with the subjects at hand.

The colors were done by Tamra Bonvillain, which explains why they’re so exquisite. We’re talking bold swaths of colors in combinations like you would never expect – especially for a horror series. Yet it is absolute perfection, and we wouldn’t change a thing.

Ed Dukeshire provided the letters, and they are the final touch this issue needed. Ranging from discreet to bold, the lettering flawlessly does it’s job over the course of this issue.

Think she’s going to regret those words?

Conclusion

Once & Future #8 brings with it lots of twists and surprises, as well as a comedic sense of timing. It has been a twisted sort of fun, watching Duncan grow into his new role as protector, but it’ll be even more interesting to see how he handles the latest hurdle.

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How A Deal Is Struck In WICKED THINGS #2

Lottie is determined to solve this case on the cover of Wicked Things #2

WICKED THINGS #2, available this Wednesday from Boom! Box brings us back to a favorite character, set in a world many fans love. We are, of course, talking about Lottie Grote and Giant Days. She has now grown up and begun a new series once again.

Lottie is determined to solve this case on the cover of Wicked Things #2

***SPOILER WARNING***

Lottie Grote may not be a character who made many appearances in Giant Days, but she quickly became a fan favorite. Which explains her multiple appearances throughout other series, including Bad Machinery and now Wicked Things.

Once upon a time, little Lottie was a teenage detective, a brilliant one at that. Now her friends have found other priorities in life, and Lottie herself is quickly aging out of the whole ‘teenage’ part of her reputation.

To make matter worse, Lottie has been framed for murder. That may seem like quite the jump to some people, but those people don’t solve mysteries for fun. Lottie can figure this out, she just needs some time to figure out how it all goes together.

Lottie’s looking fierce on this alternate cover of Wicked Things #2.

The Writing

Wicked Things #2 was written by John Allison, the man behind this and many other series that fans have come to love and cherish. Lottie’s journey may not be what she expected, yet it’s already proving to be highly entertaining.

Especially for those that desperately wanted to see this world, and it’s characters, once again. This issue brings with it another hefty dose of Lottie, alongside her BFF (Claire), and even a brief cameo from her sister (Sarah).

To be honest, Sarah’s cameo is without a doubt the funniest moment in the issue, all while showing how complicated sisterly relationships can be. The rest of the issue focuses on exactly how bad of a situation Lottie has found herself in.

The whole thing is cleverly written, with sardonic and intriguing characters alongside an amusing plot. It’s everything fans could have hoped for from this miniseries. The only downside is the relatively short length of the series.

Things aren’t looking good for Lottie…

The Art

The cute and quirky style of Giant Days meets the world of detectives in Wicked Things #2. Much of the issue is set around a crime scene, and what isn’t occurs within a prison. Needless to say, it sets the tone quite nicely.

Max Sarin is the lead artist for this series, providing that iconic style we’ve all come to know and love. Lottie and everyone else may have grown up, but they’re still recognizable for who they are. Though in some cases, their style has improved for the better (love the new look, Sarah).

Whitney Cogar is the one behind the colors, which are divine. They’re bold and bright, making great use of pops of color as well as white space. The combination makes for eye-catching pages. All of that contrasts with the plot, but in a way that works.

Finally, Jim Campbell is behind the lettering, something that’s clear to many fans right from the start. The bold lettering is the final touch that this series needed, flawlessly adding tone and order.

Someday karma is going to catch up with this little liar.

Conclusion

Wicked Things #2 was another diverting excursion into a world we’re all familiar with – but with a twist. Lottie’s tale has been a trial (pun intended), but there’s no doubt that it is likewise entertaining for the fans.

Now that Lottie has made a deal, it’ll be interesting to see what ends up happening next. This is probably not the path she saw for herself when she pictured working alongside the police, huh?

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How A Wicked Plan Unfolds In MIRKA ANDOLFO’S MERCY #3

What a twisted family to be found on the cover of Mercy #3.

MIRKA ANDOLFO’S MERCY #3, available this Wednesday from Image Comics dives into the grand scheme of Lady Hellaine, and the poor town that will soon play part in it all. A haunting tale with daunting and terrifying notes aplenty, this is not one to miss.

What a twisted family to be found on the cover of Mercy #3.

***SPOILER WARNING***

The twisted tale continues in Mercy #3. Lady Hellaine is a woman (creature?) with many plans, and they all have to do with Woodsburgh, a town in the middle of nowhere. While her plan may have hit a few snags on the way, there’s plenty of reason to be concerned about the fate of these townspeople.

The Lady has always been accompanied by her keeper, but now she also has a new companion. One who oddly enough believes the wayward woman to be her mother. That is surely not something that was in the plans, though perhaps it will work out in her favor.

One thing is certain, this little town in the middle of nowhere has had its fair share of pain and suffering. In fact, the more we learn of it, the more it seems like the two are directly connected. All that’s left is to put the pieces of the puzzle together.

Lady Hellaine is looking haunting on this alternative cover for Mercy #3.

The Writing

Mercy #3 is a chilling read – and it is also intriguing. The sort of horror story that you simply cannot turn away from. Mirka Andolfo has created a spellbinding story of monsters and men, one that is both spectacular and daunting.

There are many elements worth appreciating in this issue. Lady Hellaine’s multiple struggles, for example. Apparently it is not easy to pretend to be human – especially not when one is aiming to be a sweet, beautiful, and approachable one. That is really only the beginning of her struggles, as readers are quick to learn.

It’s actually refreshing, seeing all of the work that goes into hiding a monster. It is reminiscent of classic horror tales involving vampires, but with a unique twist. The end result is something satisfyingly vicious, ideal for horror fans.

Let us not ignore the other element of this series; the implication that there’s a love story to be found. This issue may very well have sown the seeds for that romance. Or perhaps not, only time will tell on that one. One thing is certain; the conclusion to this issue is going to leave readers on the edge of their seats.

A peek at what is to come with Mercy #4.

The Art

As with the other two issues, Mercy #3 was created largely due to Mirka Andolfo, who is the lead artist as well as the writer. That being said, they did have help. There were two color assistants; Gianluca Papi and Francesca Carotenuto, as well as a letterer, Fabio Amelia. Together these artists created something that is truly breathtaking.

Well, breathtaking and horrifying. That actually works to spectacular effect here. The series is stunning – there can be no doubt of that. Yet it isn’t afraid to turn red with blood and gore as needed. The combination is striking, to say the least.

Everything from the character designs to the horrifying elements are masterfully presented here. Add in the advanced sense of color, and some very fine lettering, and you’ve got yourself a remarkable series.

 

Conclusion

Mercy #3 went a long way in advancing the plot of this unique series. The monster’s plan may not have been fully revealed, but readers could probably make an educated guess at this point. The sudden addition and revelations at the end of this issue will be enough to get readers coming back for more.

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A Tale of Betrayal And Magic In NOMEN OMEN #6

Becky has come into her power in Nomen Omen #6.

NOMEN OMEN #6, available this Wednesday from Image Comics continues a tale twisted by magic and grief. Becky is about to fully embrace the magical world in which she has been thrown into, but at what cost?

Becky has come into her power in Nomen Omen #6.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Rebecca, aka Becky, is not exactly what you’d call a normal girl. From the first moment she was introduced, readers knew that she was different. Then she had her heart ripped out – and kept on living. Now she’s on a path to get her heart back, along with a healthy dose of revenge.

That brings us to Nomen Omen #6. Becky has officially started a journey that she can not walk away from. This is a world full of magic and creatures, none of whom are inclined to be kind, or to let any slight go.

There’s a catch though. These magical beings haven’t survived so long by letting humanity know about them. There’s always been a rule of secrecy, but why would somebody like Becky care for their rules? After all, they’re the ones who started this war.

A chilling alternative cover of Nomen Omen #6.

The Writing

Nomen Omen #6 is the start of ‘Wicked Game’, a new plot arc in the series. Written by Marco B. Bucci, this is an issue intend to get revenge first, and answers later. Becky is done being that cute little plaything that all these strange creatures assumed she was.

This is an issue showing us an all-new side of Becky. She’s strong and powerful and looks more like one of the beings we’ve seen previously than a human. Though looks can be deceiving, can’t they? The ante has been upped, and this time by Becky herself.

It’s intruding seeing the power play at work here. There are multiple parties involved, all of them with their own ultimate goals – as is always the case with magical creatures, it seems. The real question is; is Becky acting on her own, or has she unknowingly become a pawn?

There are several twists and revelations within this issue, none of which will be spoiled here. They’re much better suited for the context they’re designed for. They do make for a thrilling read – the sort that will stop and make you think.

What is the cover of Nomen Omen #7 hinting at?

The Art

The artwork behind Nomen Omen #6 is striking, to say the least. It’s dynamic and beautiful, with a strong sense of the otherworldly. Every scene in this issue is a poignant reminder of the lack of humanity being portrayed on the pages.

Jacopo Camagni was the lead artist for this issue, creating something truly fascinating. The scenes range from beautiful to disturbing, and then back again. It’s all very carefully planned out, with the intent to make the readers pause and feel a variety of emotions.

The decision to allow magic to be the colorful force on the pages is still a brilliant one, even six pages in. Now there’s more color than ever, and you can obviously guess what that means. Yet it’s still highly evocative.

The lettering was done by Fabio Amelia, and it is just as carefully thought out as the artwork itself. It’s a perfect fit for this series, both in format and style.

 

Conclusion

Nomen Omen #6 continued this intriguing tale, bringing us that much closer to the end. There are nine issues left with which to resolve this conflict. By that we of course mean, Becky has nine issues left to steal back her heart – in the most literal sense. Something tells us it’s going to be a thrilling ride the whole way there.

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New Green Lantern/Green Arrow Story From The Late Denny O’Neil

Green Lantern 80th Anniversary, cover

To commemorate Green Lantern’s 80th Anniversary, DC Comics is releasing a special 100-page collection of short, Green Lantern adventures from assorted writers and artists. What makes this collection particularly special is an adventure, penned by the late Denny O’Neil, that reunites Green Lantern with his emerald colleague Green Arrow, titled “Time Alone”.

The reunited Emerald Enforcers square off against the Clock King in a flashback to their road traveling days. The encounter leads to some introspection as each hero examines their approach to fighting crime and how they can do better.

You can read a FREE PREVIEW of O’Neil’s story via the links in DC’s full press release below.

Is this a signal that we could be seeing more Green Lantern/Green Arrow teamups from DC in the near future? Let us know what you think in the Comments, and please share this article on social media to keep the conversation going.

PREVIEW DENNY O’NEIL’S FINAL ORIGINAL DC STORY FOR FREE!

Direct website Link to Preview:

https://www.dccomics.com/comics/green-lantern-80th-anniversary-100-page-super-spectacular-2020/green-lantern-80th-anniversary

Today, ring-slinging fans everywhere are rushing to their favorite comic book stores to pick up a copy of the Green Lantern 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular. This commemorative tribute celebrates eight decades of the greatest heroes to wear the ring and recite the oath of the Green Lantern Corps. Many of comics’ greatest storytellers have lent their talents to this must-have anthology, including Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis, Gary Frank, James Tynion IV, Ron Marz, Darryl Banks, Peter Tomasi, Robert Venditti among others.

This landmark issue also features the final original DC story written by the late Denny O’Neil, “Time Alone.” Featuring art by legendary artist Mike Grell, the story reunites Hal Jordan with Green Arrow Oliver Queen in an flashback story from their days as “Hard Traveling Heroes.” A particularly violent encounter with the villain Clock King puts Hal and Ollie back out on the open road, both of them reexamining how they fight crime, and how a different approach could make them both better heroes.

In honor of Denny’s final story for DC, the publisher has provided a free online preview of “Time Alone,” available for reading here . The Green Lantern 80th Anniversary 100-Page Super Spectacular is available now at participating open and operating comic book stores and digital retailers and sells for $9.99. To find the nearest store, check out the DC comic shop locator, www.dccomics.com/comicshoptracker.

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Rick Remender Delivers THE SCUMBAG In Time For Halloween

The Scumbag, cover

Rick Remender, co-creator and writer of such titles as Deadly Class and Fear Agent, is launching a new title for Image Comics called THE SCUMBAG. The new series chronicles the adventures of “Ernie Ray Clementine, a profane, illiterate, drug addicted, biker, with a fifth-grade education and the only thing standing between us and total Armageddon”. The twist is that Clementine “accidentally received a power-imbuing serum making him the world’s most powerful super spy.”

You can read all about Remender’s take on the new series and check out a few preview images below.

Is this another Remnder hit in the making? Tell us what you think in the Comments section, and please share this post on social media to keep the conversation going.

BESTSELLING CREATOR RICK REMENDER LAUNCHES NEW SERIES THE SCUMBAG THIS OCTOBER

The fate of our world rests in the hands of the worst person on it

PORTLAND, Ore. 06/23/2020 — New York Times bestselling writer, showrunner, and terrific disco dancer Rick Remender (Deadly Class, Black Sciencelaunches an all-new comedy espionage series The Scumbag from Image Comics, set to hit shelves this October. This new ongoing series will feature a murderers’ row of all-star artistic talent rotating each issue. The first issue showcases the stunning work of Lewis LaRosa with subsequent chapters and covers by brilliant talents such as Andrew Robinson, Eric Powell, Tula Lotay, Wes Craig, Roland Boschi, Simone Di Meo, Duncan Fegredo, Yanick Paquette, Mike McKone, Dave Johnson, and Moreno Dinisio.

The Scumbag is the story of Ernie Ray Clementine, a profane, illiterate, drug addicted, biker, with a fifth-grade education and the only thing standing between us and total Armageddon because this dummy accidentally received a power-imbuing serum making him the world’s most powerful super spy.

Ernie is a relic of a bygone era, the living embodiment of sex, drugs, and rock and roll—so, this doesn’t make things easy for the spy organization that needs his help as they bribe, cajole, and manipulate Ernie to choose between his own self-interests and doing what’s right.

The Scumbag will join Remender’s growing empire, known as Giant Generator Studios, alongside such beloved series as Death Or Glory with Bengal, Seven to Eternity with Jerome Opeña, Low with Greg Tocchini, Fear Agent with Jerome Opeña and Tony Moore, The Last Days of American Crime with Greg Tocchini, Tokyo Ghost with Sean Gordon Murphy, Black Science with Matteo Scalera, Strange Girl with Eric Nguyen, and Deadly Class with Wes Craig.

The Scumbag #1 will be available at comic book shops on Wednesday, October 21st.

The Scumbag #1 will also be available for purchase across many digital platforms, including Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, comiXology, and Google Play.

The Scumbag, preview 1The Scumbag, preview 2The Scumbag, preview 3The Scumbag, preview 4

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