Review: An Alliance of Heroes in FEARLESS #3

FEARLESS #3, out this Wednesday from Marvel Comics, brings together some of our favorite and most powerful female characters. This collection of short stories isn’t afraid to have fun or take risks with their heroines.

The Invisible Woman takes front and center for the latest Fearless issue.

***SPOILER WARNING***

Fearless has been a massive undertaking – one that has consistently lived up to its name. The series brings together some of the best leading ladies in Marvel comics, and gives female creatives a chance to have fun and do something never done before.

Fearless #3 is just one part of a four-issue miniseries, and like the first three, it contains within it three separate plots. And of course, it’s full to the brim of our favorite Marvel heroines. So if you’ve ever wanted a see these ladies interact, now’s your chance.

The entire premise behind Fearless has been groundbreaking from the start. Never before has Marvel tried to do something of this scale, with this many female writers and artists before. It’s been refreshing and exhilarating at the same time. Having so many of our favorites together almost feels like icing on the cake.

The other element that makes the series work so well is the decision to split it into different short stories. Finally, we’re getting a chance to see so many overlooked sides of the world, from character interactions we’ve been dying for to characters that could use a little bit more screen (erm, page) time.

Look at the creative lineup for this issue! Is it any wonder that it ended up being amazing?

‘Campfire Song’ is the only short story that will carry through every issue in the series. It also combines the most characters into one plot, so there are no complaints here. It’s the anchor plot, but it also has some fun along the way.

Captain Marvel, Storm, Invisible Woman, and Ms. Marvel have all found themselves in the same place – a camp, believe it or not. The three elders are there to be motivational speakers to a bunch of teenage girls, Kamala included. And naturally, whenever so many heroes congregate, something is bound to go wrong.

Seanan McGuire has clearly been enjoying writing for so many heroes at once. It seems like everyone has gotten their moment (or two), especially in this issue. More importantly, even the little things were not overlooked in this plot. Small things, like the grunge way Carol dressed, or the determination behind every move Kamala makes. It all adds up and goes a long way in reminding us just how diverse these characters are.

The plot has also made a point of not overlooking the young girls at the same – several of which fall under the mutant or inhuman bracket. Who knows, maybe one day we’ll see these girls become heroes or geniuses in their own right.

Claire Roe and Rachelle Rosenberg were the artists for this issue. And they worked well as a team here – portraying our ladies perfectly, right down to the way they move and their preferred dressing styles. Their portrayal of everyone’s powers was charming and deserve some extra credit.

It’s starting to look like Ms. Marvel’s gut was right on the money.

Next up in the lineup is a new short story to throw into the mix, ‘Copycat.’ This short plot brings several other favorites to the series – Hellcat, She-Hulk, and Jessica Jones. If that isn’t enough to sell you on it, perhaps the promise of Jessica Jones beating somebody up will help?

Zoe Quinn brings us a Hellcat who has more or less gotten her stuff together, after everything she’s been through. But she’s still got a lot on her plate – and having a fake Hellcat running around the world is certainly not helping things.

She-Hulk’s panic-texting is full-on amazing. It’s the sort of texting you’d expect to see from your bestie about to have a monumental breakdown, and we’re here for it. We could all use a friend like Jennifer.

Speaking of friends, Jessica Jones’ part in this plot is so satisfying; it’ll make you wish the Netflix series was still airing. There is something so satisfying about her beatdowns. Probably the sheer force put out, while she’s just all sorts of done with the fight.

The artwork for this mini-plot was brilliant – our three ladies kicking butt and taking names. And let’s not forget how amazing all of their hair looked. Marika Cresta and Irma Knivila were the artists for this short, and they went all out on the fight scenes and drama. The cute little creature was an adorable touch as well – precisely the sort of critter that Patsy would come across, no?

This text conversation is pure perfection.

And finally, the last short in this issue is the shortest of them all – being only a couple pages long. It’s appropriately titled ‘Jubilation’ and features none other than Jubilee herself, and of course, Wolverine (he’s an honorary heroine, in this issue).

Jubilee’s thirst for life and general enjoyment of everything fun shines bright through in this miniaturized plot. And it’s balanced nicely with Wolverine’s gruffness and his need to lecture her about social media (who’s the rat that told him how Instagram works?).

Alyssa Wong wrote the script, which managed to fit in several funny moments despite its short run. And yet everything about it screamed ‘Jubilee’ as it was the perfect fit for a beloved character.

Meanwhile, Alti Firmansyah provided the artwork, giving an overall ‘80s look to the story. You’ll almost feel like you’re watching the classic cartoons all over again (the only exception being how Instagram is around, of course). And finally, Rachelle Rosenberg provided the vibrant colors that genuinely completed the look �� full of ‘80s color style and everything.

This is not a conversation we expected to see between Jubilee and Wolverine.

Fearless #3 may have been made up of three different short stories, but it had a cohesive feel to it. The primary focus on heroines helped, as did the sequential feeling to the artwork itself. Combined with a sense of liberation, this whole issue felt like a celebration of heroines. And there’s little doubt that this was the true intent.

Another element that tied the whole issue together was the lettering, which was all done by one artist, Cardinal Rae. This may seem like a small touch, but it had a significant payoff in the end. And it shows off smart thinking from the higher-ups.

The next issue should wrap up the only long-running short in the series, but it’ll also likely bring with it two more quirky shorts. And frankly, we already know that they’re going to be loads of fun.

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Review: HARLEEN #1 – Harley’s Hellaciously Heartbreaking & Harrowing Heritage

Cody Walker

Harleen #1, out this week from DC Comics Black Label, is a fresh, new clinical approach to the origins of Harley Quinn.

Harley Quinn is a character that has exploded into popular culture since Margot Robbie and Suicide Squad, and many people think her relationship with the Joker is some kind of @#$%ed up modern-day fairy-tale. Hopefully, many of those people will read this series by Stjepan Sejic and figure out for themselves that this is not one of those Hollywood relationships to idolize.

Stjepan Sejic writes and illustrates this new imagining of Dr. Harleen Quinzel. Gabriela Downie takes care of the letters and makes it very easy on the eyes. Lately, the Harley stories have been a strain on my eyes to read. Her books have had red and yellow on red and yellow backgrounds, but in Harleen #1 the words are less strenuous. Immediately this book is more enjoyable than most Harley Quinn issues of the past few years.

Sejic’s art throughout the entire issue is a pleasure to look at. He has an uncanny ability to make each panel look realistic, but still holds onto that sketchy style that appears almost unfinished. Books like this really get to show off the difference between cover art and interior art, especially with this being an over-sized issue. Sejic’s covers can be so crisp that it looks like a high-def photo, but this interior work is obviously drawn with a deadline. Whether Sejic is working on 60 pages of story or one cover his work is no less remarkable. The realism in the interior pages comes from his colors more so than any of the actual line work.

Dr. Harleen Quinzel is a young and promising psychologist with a passion for rehabilitation over incarceration. After a science symposium, Harley unexpectedly meets her future lover. As the Joker sets off explosions to steal some weapons, he pulls a gun on her causing her life to flash before her eyes, and he lets her off “with a warning.” That’s typically not a first encounter that inspires romantic feelings, so how Harley comes to fall in love with him is quite the mystery that I’m looking forward to seeing unfold in these pages.

Dr. Quinzel pleads with her pharmacist friends for pills to no avail; nothing is helping her nightmares except alcohol. She avoids interviewing Joker for weeks before she can put it off no longer. Harley prepares herself by watching videos from other sessions and familiarizing herself with all his lies, but nothing can actually prepare her for a one-on-one interview with the man himself.

Dr. Quinzel is not the only person in this story who has yet to realize their full potential. Harvey Dent is still going by Harvey Dent, and Harley mentions, in a mere five months both of them will have become killers. If that doesn’t excite you about the remaining two issues of this series then you just aren’t a fan of these characters.

Harleen #1 gives you a more in-depth look at the psychiatrist before Joker corrupted her. This story elaborates on why Harley got mixed up with the Joker in the first place, and what her intentions were. The best aspect of the Joker is the way he can manipulate anyone into killing just by pretending to open up to them finally. I’m excited to see how he accomplishes that with Dr. Harleen Quinzel in Sejic’s version of events.

What did you think of the first issue of Harleen? Let us know in the comments below.

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Review: BOOKS OF MAGIC #12 And Timothy’s Descent Into Misery

Corey Patterson

Timothy Hunter made a vow to never use magic again last issue, for the sole purpose of protecting his mother from the cult group The Cold Flame. But his mother’s odd behavior may call this decision into question. On top of that, Dr. Rose is caught in the middle of a deadly fight with the treacherous Mr. Davies, right in the middle of Tim’s school.

Find out what becomes of Tim and Rose when BOOKS OF MAGIC #12 hits stores on Wednesday, September 25.

Story

Tim’s mother has been behaving strangely since returning home last issue, obsessively begging him to show her the Books of Magic. What’s more, she admits to casting a spell on her husband so there would be no intrusions. After spending time with her, Tim realizes this woman isn’t his mother after all; it’s a member of The Cold Flame.

Shocked in utter disbelief, Tim uses an impressive force of magic to force the evildoer out of his house. But the there’s no time for rest, as his bully Tyler arrives almost immediately, alerting him to a dangerous magical battle taking place at the school. Feeling some sense of responsibility, and wanting to get away from his mother’s impostor, the young wizard races to the school intending to use his full magical power once again. But upon arrival, Tim learns that Tyler’s request was all part of the evil Mr. Davies’ ploy to corner the young wizard in a trap, leaving Tim uncertain if he can trust anyone anymore.

Kat Howard has been slowly revealing Tim’s descent into misery throughout this series, and his actions taken in BOOKS OF MAGIC #12 is the culmination of that work. He’s lost almost every form of support in his life, and it’s clear the boy is ready to take out his hurt on the world. Unfortunately for Davies, Tim’s decided the treacherous teacher is the most suitable punching bag, satisfying that all-too-common teenage angst most readers have experienced.

Artwork

The artwork in this issue beautifully suits its high-paced, action-packed story. Tom Fowler’s pencils, emboldened by Brian Churilla, Craig Taillefer, and Fowler’s inks, captures the brilliance of the magical fights within this issue. From the shambles of Mr. Davies’ office to the shattered glass in Tim’s bedroom, the ability of this art to draw readers into the action is astounding.

Marissa Louise’s colors respond well to each scene, shifting to intense purples and yellows during both fights, while sticking to more subdued colors in the transition scenes. Todd Klein’s letters work in a similar fashion by using more dynamic, large fonts in the more active scenes.

Comic Cover

Kai Carpenter’s main cover depicts Tim attacking a person (presumed to be Mr. Davies) with his screwdriver wand. The anger in our protagonist’s face is consuming his entire fighting stance, showing the high level of hatred he has for the teacher.

Conclusion

The action-packed BOOKS OF MAGIC #12 is just the issue to take this series to a new level of intensity. Despite his troubles, Tim’s magical ability has improved dramatically, and he’s ready to unleash it upon the world.

What did you think of Tim’s actions in this book? Let us know in the comments below!

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Review: BATMAN/SUPERMAN #2 – BIlly Batson Breaks the Bat

Cody Walker

Billy Batson unleashes fury on the World’s Finest in Batman/Superman #2, an action-packed chapter out this week from DC Comics.

At the end of Batman/Superman #1, the Robin lurking in the Batcave is revealed to be an infected Billy Batson, the Shazam Who Laughs, and this issue picks up right where it left off.

Joshua Williamson scripts this feverishly paced issue while David Marquez pencils some of the most gorgeous interior art in comics right now. Alejandro Sanchez adds glowing and vivid colors that keep comic readers coming back for multiple reads. There is enough detail in the pencils and colors to spend a good hour admiring them.

John J. Hill takes care of the letters and does a phenomenal job with the non-stop action in this issue. The lettering is fresh and always evolving as the size varies with almost every sentence spoken. The word bubbles clearly show what is meant to be heard by everyone and what is intended for themselves. If I were a letterer for DC Comics, this is definitely an issue I would love to work on, as it looks like it was fun as hell to be a part of.

Williamson is a fantastic writer when it comes to horror, so having him writing a Batman Who Laughs story is a treat. As more and more heroes are infected with the BWL’s toxin, tapping into his horror background promises to be quite the ride. That being said, the best part of this series so far is Marquez’s artwork and Sanchez’s colors.

When there’s magic, laser eyes, expensive technology, lightning, and a fortress of solitude, boring art, and dull colors should never be allowed. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a night battle glow so much in the moonlight and lightning blasts. Sanchez’s colors pop off the page like there are little diamonds in the paper.

Marquez adds so much detail into every fraction of his work. Where some artists will save all the detail work for the focus of each panel, Marquez spends time on fingernails and chin dimples. I can’t say enough of how gorgeous this book is and how many times I’ve looked through it without reading it.

Batman/Superman #2, starts with Gordon getting the Batman Who Laughs into the GCPD armory. Gordon makes a point to mention all the evidence, weapons, and poisons stored in this vault, so now we know the BWL has access to some of the most dangerous items and plenty of information on Gotham’s worst criminals. If we know anything about Batman, it’s that information is just as useful of a weapon to him as a Batarang.

In true Joker fashion, Shazam changes back into Billy Batson multiple times to trick Batman and Superman into letting their guard down or holding back. It works every time. Their desire to always save everyone works against them at every turn. Now that the Batman Who Laughs has access to the GCPD armory there isn’t a weakness he doesn’t know how to exploit. No one in the DC Universe is safe.

Batman/Superman #2 is exactly what the casual fan wants when they pick up a comic featuring the World’s Finest. Plenty of action from the start and gorgeous fight scenes make this a book any reader would enjoy. As the Batman Who Laughs continues to wreak havoc on the DC Universe, and his plan unfolds, the World’s Finest heroes will have to work together in ways they’ve never had to before.

Strap in for the ride; the infection is spreading.

What did you think of the 2nd issue of Batman/Superman? Let us know in the comments below.

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Review: Steve Takes On Traditionalism In CAPTAIN AMERICA #14

Corey Patterson

Steve Rogers has undergone many shifting circumstances throughout the past few issues, and they don’t seem to be decreasing. After being framed for the murder of General Thunderbolt Ross by Wolfgang von Strucker, the hero turned himself in to prevent collateral damage, only to be sprung from prison by none other than Sharon Carter and the Daughters of Liberty. Together, this epic team is on a mission to clear Steve’s name by taking on corrupt organizations. They plan to start with the Watchdogs, an extremist group hell-bent on enforcing their sense of “tradition” upon society’s most vulnerable.

Readers will be able to join Steve and the Daughters for the fight when CAPTAIN AMERICA #14 hits stores on Wednesday, September 25th.

Story

Steve and the Daughters haven’t worked together long, but they’re already proving to be a formidable, seamless team. The story initially features Echo, an experienced fighter herself, showcase equally amazing abilities to infiltrate the Watchdogs base bar. She pretends to cozy with one of the most unsuspecting meatheads, then proceeds to take out the criminals one by one as Steve runs the team’s strategic operations.

Steve eventually joins the fray and leads the team through the compound in search of their leaders. Here readers are treated to plenty of splendid action as Steve, White Tiger, and Echo take on the Watchdogs. The ease with which this team of heroes takes down such hate-filled villains is satisfying, but hearts stop when they uncover the true purpose of the organization. It’s a secret that hides beneath the organization’s dedication to keeping their traditions in place, no matter how many people they hurt in the process.

In this issue writer Ta-Nehisi Coates offers a brilliant critique of traditionalism, an all too common trait found among many in our country today. This ideology, rather than opening up the mind to new possibilities, encourages us to cling to the ways things have always been done—with force if necessary. In response, Coates presents Steve as the ideal for each and every American, simultaneously acknowledging one’s potential fear of change while embracing the beauty it can bring.

Artwork

The artwork within this issue brings to mind the classic adventures crafted by Jack Kirby himself. Each element helps to craft this action-packed story—from Matt Milla’s multilayered coloring in the fast-paced scene transitions to Niko Walter’s fleshed out fighting poses of Steve and the Daughters. In addition, letterer Joe Caramagna’s dynamic changes in fonts helps readers gauge the character’s emotions, matching each piece of dialogue with the scene’s level of intensity.

Comic Covers

Main Cover

Alex Ross’ main cover artwork features Steve fighting off a team of soldiers superimposed over a larger version of his. The background image depicts the hero in his traditional garb, which serves as a metaphor for Steve’s reflection of his previous status as a beloved hero.

Variant Cover

Patch Zircher and Jason Keith’s unique variant cover features a warping of Steve, first showing him in civilian clothes and then shifting to the Captain America suit. However, we see a third Steve—the one caught in between these identities. This places our focus on Steve’s struggle to define himself after his defamation at the hands of Hydra Cap and the Power Elite.

Conclusion

CAPTAIN AMERICA #14 offers us an exciting look at Steve in his best element: fighting social evils. It’s great to see him kicking butt with the powerhouse that is the Daughters, too.

Are you enjoying Steve’s collaboration with the Daughters? Let us know in the comments below!

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How it All Comes Back to Burnside in BATGIRL #39

Cat Wyatt

BATGIRL #39, which is set to release this Wednesday from DC Comics brings the tale of two Oracles to ahead. And to think, one of them doesn’t even know the gravity of the situation yet.

The new Oracle does not play around, does she?

***SPOILER WARNING***

Once again, an issue of Batgirl has been split in twain. The Year of the Villain event is still going strong, and it doesn’t think twice about steamrolling into Batgirl’s territory. Fans that haven’t been following the event might find themselves a bit confused here – but don’t worry, Batgirl doesn’t know a whole lot more about what is going on. So you’re in good company.

Thanks to the unique way in which Batgirl has been handling crossovers, that means that there are essentially two plots running through this issue. It’s quite clever when you think about it.

Batgirl is flying into action in this alternate cover.

Not all fans enjoy crossovers, and not because they can be challenging to keep up with. That’s why it’s always a relief when a series handles them in a different fashion. Batgirl mashes the elements together, rather than giving over the reins entirely. It’s the best compromise fans are going to get. And it can have some interesting side effects. Such as a Batgirl who has no idea what has gotten into the minds of the people around her.

Cecil Castellucci is the brains behind that shrewd move. One would argue that she’s taken the writing style to a whole new level; throwing enemies and diversions at Batgirl from every level and direction.

Batgirl #39 is full of lots of minor events for Batgirl to deal with – all while she is forced to cope with something much more significant and harder to explain. The sense of grief and loss is palpable in these moments, all while the foreshadowing builds.

This whole plot has gone a long way in reminding us that behind every mask, behind every cowl – is a human being. One who has a life, has the right to feel emotions, and sometimes will even break down. We all know what it feels like when we’re juggling too much at once – but the superhero life is basically that emotion on steroids.

Barbs has been down in the dumps for several issues now, a fact that the series has not made any attempt to hide from us. It’s a poignant reminder of her humanity, while also likely building up to a higher peak in Batgirl’s plot arc. Tear them down to build them up, and all that jazz.

The real question is; how far are they going to push Barbara? How much can any hero take, before feeling the need to walk away? And when is the showdown happening? Because we all know that there is one on the horizon.

The Oracle has begun her hunt – how long before she strikes?

The artwork within Batgirl #39 did a pretty solid job of supporting all of the events and emotions crammed within its pages. Barbara’s grief and depression are respectively shown, portraying all of the nuances to the point where it seems like there’s almost a literal weight on her head and shoulders.

One of the true highlights in this issue comes from what should have been a casual little jaunt around Burnside. Here the past and the present merge, with phantoms of Batgirl’s battles running through the streets. It’s both a beautiful and heartbreaking sight, especially when coupled with the works of her companion. And when one considers the vast array of emotions she’s been dealing with.

All of these emotions and different points can be laid solidly at the feet of the creative team involved. Carmine Di Giandomenico was the lead artist – and the one responsible for drawing out all of these powerful moments. Jordie Bellaire’s colors were vibrant when the occasion called for it, but also not afraid to be subdued as needed. And finally, Andworld Design provided the letters, without which we surely would have lost a lot of the impact of this tale.

The issue starts off with a brilliant fight – full of many of our favorite characters.

Batgirl #39 is a somber issue, but it’s also setting up for something more. It feels like something horrible is about to happen, while also oddly giving readers the impression that Batgirl will be better off when it’s all said than done. Or perhaps that’s just the optimist in the readers talking.

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WHITE TREES #2 Finale Is An Emotional Gut Punch

Jason Jeffords Jr

This Wednesday Image Comics’ epic fantasy, WHITE TREES #2 concludes in a beautiful, yet emotional issue.

White Trees #1 introduced the readers to a fantasy world brimming with gorgeous landscapes and ablaze with color, wrapped in an emotionally rich story. If you haven’t read the first issue, check our review here

Interior Art by Kris Anka, Colors by Matt Wilson and Letters by Aditya Bidikar

Fantasy Tales

Chip Zdarsky is known for his comedy, just check out his twitter. But with White Trees he hitts emotional highs that feel like a gut punch, and that is what makes the book so good. The writing shines as it is all over the emotional spectrum. During one panel you’ll laugh, and then the next panel you’ll be holding back tears.

White Trees consists of two forty-page issues which cause the pacing to move quickly; but there are still down moments that break up the speed, helping keep its scope. White Trees #2 may conclude the trio’s search for their kids, but Zdarsky puts a heavier emphasis on Krylos. This shifted focus works as Krylos is an interesting plot driver. But the trio shines when together, speaking volumes on their history.

A Picturesque Fantasy

Continuing on art is Kris Anka, whose pencils and inks are a sight to behold. Some panels are simple having only one character reacting, but this simplicity works out magnificently. Anka showcases so many emotions in character anatomy that they feel real. This emotional awareness shines through when Krylos snaps.

Krylos’ bottled up rage come undone, as Anka inks a heavy shadow falling across his face. This simple panel of Krylos highlights Anka’s life-like facial emotions. This isn’t the only moment Anka introduces heavy inks for effect. But each moment it’s implied it amplifies the panel.

Anka doesn’t just excel at character moments, but in environments as well. Each building or set-piece feels straight out of a fantasy; beautiful, vast, and intimidating. As White Trees #2 includes more action, Anka’s precise, yet chaotic pencils help the flow.

Taking Anka’s art to another level is Matt Wilson’s fantastic colors. When a panel focuses on an emotional beat, Wilson amplifies it with colors to match. When Krylos’ rage erupts, the panel screams red. Wilson keeps the bright colors attributed to Fantasies while adding in darker shades. These moments of darker colors help drive the weight of the actions transpiring. Also, when highlighting an action sequence, Wilson voids the background colors.

The lettering by Aditya Bidikar never changes in the form of sizes or colors, except in one scene. In Krylos’ scream, Bidikar breaks the bubble into spikes, while enlarging the font. Although that is the only moment the lettering changes style, Bidikar helps the pacing as much as the others. As the issue delves into more talkative moments, the lettering layout helps guide your eyes.

A Classic In The Making (White Trees Conclusion)

Each emotional beat hits hard. As the blend between the colors, art, and story work in perfect harmony. White Trees is a fantasy that’ll go down as a classic.

Memorable Quote: “You could have been the man I once knew and burst through the ropes regardless…” – Dahvlan

Extra Credit: As with the first issue, White Trees #2 has maps! It also adds a rundown of three panels narrated by Zdarsky. This bonus content is a great behind the scenes, and per usual it is hilarious. The author bios are great are entertaining as well.

Fantasy Fans

What did you think of the ending of White Trees

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AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #30 – One Menacing Villain To Another…

By
Brandon J. Griffin
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This week Marvel drops AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #30 into our laps. This Absolute Carnage tie-in issue is much more than your average tie-in comic. Nick Spencer’s other half, Ryan Ottley returns and puts on a show.

***SPOILERS LIE AHEAD***

Symbiotes, goblins, and centipedes–oh my! Amazing Spider-Man #30 is fully-loaded with way more than most event tie-in issues have over the years. This issue is more focused on the continuing threads of Spencer’s ongoing Spidey adventures than it is fitting into Donny Cates’ Absolute Carnage puzzle–and it’s better for it.

The mysterious Kindred takes center stage as he talks trash to Norman Osborn in a padded cell. Throughout his menacing monologue there are a few hints or probable red-herrings as to who Kindred could possibly be.

Nick Spencer leads us towards the lord of evil centipedes being Harry Osborn, Flash Thompson, or someone else who has been in Peter’s life since childhood. It’s a masterful job by Spencer to keep the reader guessing without losing steam or becoming stale.

Kindred telling Norman “You won a long time ago” in his battle with Peter is absolutely chilling. This issue sheds a new light on Spidey and Osborn’s history of hatred. This is all while continuing to build Kindred into a potentially monumental adversary.

BUT WHY DO WE FALL MASTER BECK?

As for the tie-in bits, Peter protecting his godson and Brock’s secret son is good old fashioned Spider-Man super-heroics. This issue doesn’t factor into the grand scheme of the event’s story in a big way, but it moves the ongoing scenario along enough to be worth a read for those just interested in the event.

Spencer digs into Peter’s past once again and either creates or extracts these little moments that play such a crucial role in Peter’s current story. It’s an impressive show of comic book craft and continues to give this Amazing Spider-Man run the feel of a classic run.

Ryan Ottley graces us web-heads with his presence this issue, it’s a breath of fresh air as always. Without Ottley’s pencils, who knows how much any of us would really care about this mysterious Kindred character.

ALL THE BEST SPIDEY VILLAINS HAVE PURPLE

We may not get him on every issue in the run but it’s still superbly entertaining to witness Ottley draw Spider-Man issues. His action is big, heavy scenes are impactful, emotions are conveyed and felt by the reader.

Colorist Nathan Fairbairn floods our brains with glorious contrast and style. All of the symbiotes and Carnage-babies we’ve been seeing lately across all of Marvel yet all of it looks and feels fresh here.

Amazing Spider-Man #30 is a fantastic issue on its own as well as a tie-in issue. TELL US WHO KINDRED IS!

WHO ARE YOU

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Review: An Action-Horror Team-Up in Store for STRIKEFORCE #1

By
David DeCorte
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Bio-terror, body-snatching action horror is on order in Strikeforce #1, out this week from Marvel Comics.

While we open the story with The Avengers, the action quickly shifts away from them to focus on our new team who, as the publisher explains, “fight the fights that no other Marvel team can take on.” That’s certainly one way to put it, as our heroes are tangling with a new foe originating from off-world, and familiar to only one member of the crew.

The Writing

First off, we should note that Strikeforce #1 covers a lot of narrative ground. The book is a fast-paced and engaging read from beginning to end. In addition, the characters forming the core crew—Blade, Angela, Spectrum, Spider-Woman, Winter Solider, and Wiccan—provide a fun balance of divergent personalities.

A downside to the story’s pacing, however, is that a considerable amount of dialogue ends up dedicated to exposition. We’re setting up the dynamics of an Avengers story…then suddenly pivoting to an entirely different team. It’s not a major problem, but it can lead to some interactions feeling a bit stilted and long-winded to fit in a single issue. This might have been better-served split into two more even-keeled books that are allowed some space to unravel their narrative a bit.

Tonally, Strikeforce #1 hits a good balance between its horror and action aspects. The creatures facing our heroes are an interesting concept that really help sell the horror facet. Not to give any spoilers, but suffice to say they are, as one character describes them, “a virus of thought.” Writer Trini Howard describes the story as “a horror book about trust,” which, ultimately, is an apt description. The book contains elements borrowed from a classic Body Snatchers premise, but spun in an interesting new direction.

Despite a few qualms, Howard lays the groundwork for an interesting story with this first issue. The future’s looking bright for Marvel’s newest team-up.

The Artwork

German Peralta takes on art duties for the book, turning in a solid final product overall.

As mentioned before, we’re moving at a brisk pace in Strikeforce #1. While that’s alright for the narrative, it’s less than ideal for the artwork, as some of the pages can feel crowded. In an different setting, we’d have an even balance between those denser pages and more expansive illustrations that offer some breathing room.

That said, Peralta does still get some time to shine, particularly in the book’s last third. Here, as the action picks up considerably, the artist seems a bit more free to play with the images, rather than sticking to the tightly-gridded and cropped panels in the earlier pages.

The colors by artist Jordie Bellaire are stellar. The work is nice and vibrant, while remaining tonally cohesive and coherent. Pages are dominated by fiery reds, icy blues, and unearthly purples in equal measure.

Final Thoughts

Strikeforce #1 is not without its faults. However, it’s an above-average start for the new series, and it promises interesting things are in store. I’d recommend giving it a shot.

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Review: BLACK SCIENCE #43 – It All Comes Down To This

By
Brandon J. Griffin
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This week from Image Comics comes the final issue of their acclaimed series BLACK SCIENCE. Creators Rick Remender and Matteo Scalera send us off with an emotional finale in issue #43.

***SPOILERS LIE AHEAD***

Black Science debuted back in November of 2013. It unleashed the madness of Grant McKay upon the world as he struggles like any of us to try and navigate the chaos he’s created for himself and his family.

Through forty-three issues we’ve seen brilliant sci-fi concepts pour out of the mind of superstar writer Rick Remender. We’ve been treated to six years of gorgeous Matteo Scalera art that pushed the limit of comic book art and constantly reminded readers why we all love this medium.

It’s sad to see this monumental series come to an end, but at least it was ended on the terms of the creators. Black Science will have a definitive ending, rather than continue on into obscurity once the idea well inevitably dries up.

Our final issue jumps around a bit, utilizing the plus-size amount of pages that we’re provided. The story centers around Grant and Sara, as it should. Their tragic story never gets a “happy ending” but only through the lens of ignorance does any story really happily conclude. Remender reminds us that there is always somebody left behind.

We get a satisfying end to Kadir by the hand of Sara. Grant completely f*ucks up once again and causes their children to die, but as always he promises to fix it. We take a look at the “weathered” Grant and Sara that we encountered long ago in the series as they embark on their own journey to get their kids back.

This infinite onion filled with infinite possibilities and futures doesn’t end and never will. Ending this series was no easy task as there was no real way to close the story. Remender takes the best possible approach to at least send readers off with a smile rather than a pit of despair in their stomachs.

With Black Science #43 we say goodbye to not only these beautifully flawed characters, but their creators as well. Remender and Scalera have been one of the most dynamic duos in comic books for six years now–what happens now? Hopefully we’ll see Scalera again soon enough, his style and creative lens is top-tier.

We can’t forget about colorist Moreno Dinisio either, wherever Scalera pops up again hopefully he takes Dinisio with him. Their chemistry in bringing these obscure and gorgeous illustrations to life is magnificent. Not just character models or creature design, but layouts and landscapes are impossible to ignore as every panel in this entire series is worth getting lost in.

Black Science #43 is probably the best ending we could’ve possibly gotten given the subject matter and commitment these rules and characters. It’s an impressive issue that will satisfy readers who have kept up for an inconsistent six years.

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