DARTH VADER ANNUAL #2 written by Chuck Wendig, with pencils by Leonard Kirk, inks by Walden Wong and Scott Hanna, colors by Nolan Woodard, and letters by Joe Caramagna releases this week as Wendig gives readers an entertaining insight into Governor Tarkin, Commander Krennic, Darth Vader, and the events leading up to ROGUE ONE. Let’s take a look!
WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD!!!
DARTH VADER ANNUAL #2 SPOILERS TOO!
Summary
Governor Tarkin lands on Scarif for a surprise visit and storms into an unauthorized area to find Darth Vader researching “Project Stardust.” It turns out, the Emperor gave Tarkin the power to tell Vader what to do, and this drastically angers the Sith Lord. Not only was he left out of these new project plans BUT some poor shmuck now gets to tell him what to do. Oh, how times are changing, and Vader is pissed!
Tarkin and the Emperor send Vader to Geonosis to find out who is sabotaging this new “Project Stardust.” After looking into leads, he gets a name: Galen Erso. This should sound familiar from ROGUE ONE. Lord Vader looks into Erso’s research, stumbles onto Kyber Crystals and finds a race of Brood creatures within the planet. Vader unleashes his current anger and destroys them all.
The issue ends with a Brood alien confronting Lyra Erso, Galen’s wife, and telling her that Galen is creating a planet killing weapon for the Empire. Surprised by this, she runs off to confront her husband, and they go into hiding, which leads readers right into ROGUE ONE.
Rogue Zero-ish
DARTH VADER ANNUAL #2 was Wendig’s take on the prequel to ROGUE ONE, and it was pretty fascinating. Sure, “Project Stardust” was stated, but it was unexpected to see where it ended, which was a fantastic twist. Wendig turned a Vader story into a prequel and made the idea that it was a prequel the plot twist. Many could argue that readers should have seen it coming, especially since they used words like “Stardust,” “Kyber Crystals,” and readers see Commander Krennic.
Tarkin’s my Patronus
Tarkin is a cocky jerk with the biggest pair of balls any man could possess. He’s seen what Darth Vader has done to thousands of people. He knows the power this man has, yet he still pokes the bear. He has no fear! I absolutely loved this take on Tarkin. Soule has been leading up to this idea with the character, BUT this put him over the edge. If you include issue 18 as well as this annual by Wendig, together both writers did an excellent job elevating Tarkin to badass level.
Out with the Old in with the New
On page 33, Vader confronts Tarkin about “Project Stardust” and tells him that he figured out that it’s a planet killer once he found the Kyber Crystals. But the cunning Tarkin notices something about the Sith Lord; that Vader fears being replaced. Darth Vader thought he was the only technological abomination required to take over the universe. This is what the Emperor led him to believe until Tarkin showed up and devised an even grander plan with Krennic.
Now, the technological abomination that is even more powerful than Darth Vader is the Death Star! Wendig shows readers the fear and worry behind the face of one of the most powerful beings in the known universe without him taking his mask off.
Art and Storytelling
Parts of the issue seemed to drag a bit. Maybe because it was an annual and longer BUT this could have been done better if it was the regular issue length. However, that said, this wasn’t dialogue heavy at all. Thus, it was easy to read. And even though it felt slow moving at parts, the issue was smart, clear, easy to follow, and easy to understand.
The art by Wong, Hanna, and Woodard was nicely done, especially the flashback scenes from Vader. Each time a memory would happen, the art team placed it in red as if Vader himself was visualizing it through his eyes instead of it being through the reader’s eyes. The expressions on the characters faces were detailed so well and are accurate to the situations they were in. Surprisingly, this can be a hard task for artists but not this art team. These artists knew exactly what they were doing.
Should I buy this issue?
You bet! Wendig’s annual adds fantastic lore to the Star Wars universe by building up Tarkin and surprisingly tearing down one of the most feared beings in the galaxy. Wendig shows readers a transfer of power and adds so much more to both these characters. Get this issue!
Should I add this series to my pull list?
Absolutely! Now, keep in mind Charles Soule has been writing the series, not Wendig. However, Soule is doing a spectacular job. Look no farther than last week to issue 18. That may be his best issue yet!
What did you guys think of DARTH VADER ANNUAL #2? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu
The clock for Gerry Duggan’s cosmic Marvel event, Infinity Countdown, reaches zero. It’s final chapter sets up next week’s Infinity Wars Prime #1. One thing is clear with this issue, we’re ready for the damn thing to start already!
***SPOILERS LIE AHEAD***
All of our players are set and aware of each other on the board. Doctor Strange, Adam Warlock, Black Widow, Drax, Captain Marvel, and Turk Barrett (former Stilt-Man) all have an infinity stone–now let’s light up this big batch of cosmic fireworks.
It feels like we’ve beating around the bush forever with all these tie-ins. We still have no idea who the mysterious infinity figure is from all the promo art, or how Thanos fits into everything. It’s extremely reassuring to see that we only have to wait one more week at the end of Infinity Countdown #5.
Writer Gerry Duggan has become the cosmic mastermind recently and he’s got us on edge. The fact that there’s this much excitement surrounding a strictly cosmic story at Marvel is a testament to the great work he’s done (beginning with All-New Guardians Of The Galaxy).
It’s also a wonderful feeling to go into an event with no idea what’s going to happen. This spoiler culture we live in, especially if you pay attention to comic book solicitations, doesn’t usually allow for excitement to grow through mystery and impatience.
Infinity Countdown #5 doesn’t really do all that much to actually set up what’s coming in Infinity Wars Prime. What we do get is Doctor Strange beginning to assemble all the infinity stone wielders to sort out the inevitable impending threat. For the record, it’s awesome that Stilt-Man has an infinity stone.
As much as we’d all like our beloved 2008 GOTG teammates to reunite, Duggan puts Adam Warlock and the Guardians all at odds with each other. There’s plenty of distrust between Warlock, Quill, Gamora, and now Drax. Also, Groot is still speaking full sentences. Gerry’s knack for writing these characters allows him all the rope he needs to tell this story. In Gerry we trust.
The big surprise from all of Infinity Countdown has been the involvement of Hank Pym, trapped inside the Soul Gem with a piece of Gamora’s soul. Marvel has been on a roll recently, resurrecting longtime staples of the 616 continuity. Pym would not only be welcomed back, but would make for some interesting stories given that Ultron has been running around wearing his face for a few years.
Duggan pulls a fast one on us in a fantastic scene where Hank Pym seemingly meets his end (again). Whether or not this is really the end for the original Ant-Man, it was a clever scene that is sure to get a reaction out of readers one way or another.
Aaron Kuder continues to perfectly accent Duggan’s strength for these cosmic characters. These two are the only creators that have managed to deliver a Guardians Of The Galaxy comic book since the success of the MCU films. That bleeds over into every corner of Marvel’s cosmic landscape. They balance the humor, heart, and absurdity that’s necessary to make the post-movie versions of these heroes compelling.
Mike Hawthorne also contributes some wonderful art. He focuses mostly on Doctor Strange’s investigation into what the hell is going on. Hawthorne gives us a more classic looking Doctor Strange. He’s more weathered and exhausted by sorcery supremacy than recent incarnations–it’s appreciated.
Infinity Countdown is now over, Duggan has us ready and rearing to go–bring on Infinity Wars!
JUSTICE LEAGUE #4 well written by Scott Snyder, dynamically drawn by Jorge Jimenez, splashed with colors by Alejandro Sanchez, and eloquently lettered by Tom Napolitano hits your local comic book shop this week. Snyder and Jimenez blow your mind with intelligent writing and art that will knock your crocs off… and the jibbitz too!
WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD!!!
JUSTICE LEAGUE SPOILERS TOO!
The FACTS
Wow! So much happened during this issue but let’s cut it down to just the Facts shall we? Luthor and Joker manage to take control of Martian Manhunter and Superman’s bodies while inside the Totality. Meanwhile, Grodd uses a 4th generation baby Turtle (Flash’s original villain) to control the Still Force while Sinestro destroys John’s lantern ring and creates an Ultraviolet Ring Corps. From start to finish, this was an enjoyable issue. Snyder, please don’t blow this.
What was Good
Snyder and Jimenez did a tremendous job with nonstop action followed by continuous twists and turns. This was a very vital issue and here is what stood out:
Batman finally seemed like BATMAN! Thank the Maker! Sure, the Legion currently has the upper hand BUT Snyder’s narration of Batman figuring out what’s going on seemed reminiscent of a great detective and the cunning fighter he once was.
What was Great
Aquaman seems like a dude no one should mess with. He’s kicking names and taking ass! When he’s fighting the White Martians, Aquaman is slaughtering them! Even in Aquaman’s small part, Snyder and Jimenez did a fantastic job showing off the character.
The overall story made sense. From one page to the next, Snyder and Jimenez unraveled a thorough, connected, and cohesive story. Questions are logically answered. Readers know why the Justice League is doing everything and it makes sense. The jumps from team to team flow so well. But the best part of the issue; every League member feels essential like they have a task to do.
ART was the Best PART
Jimenez, keep doing what you’re doing. Snyder has been writing well, but the art is what’s throwing this book to the top of my pull list. It’s the cherry on top that elevates this book to a must read each release.
For example, when Lex and Joker take over Superman and Martian Manhunters bodies, notice the facial change in the characters. Their faces look so sinister. They kind of look like Luthor and Joker.
How about John’s face as his ring is destroyed? OR take a look at the sheer size of Grodd with (in all seriousness) a cute baby attached to him. The color of the Still Force coming off Grodd by Sanchez and the placement of the lettering by Napolitano, as well as the unique lettering for Grodd, really drives this issue.
Concerns
This issue was outstanding from beginning to end HOWEVER Snyder has been prone to painting himself into a corner and figuring out a magical way to escape in the last issue (see METAL).Snyder, please gradually take some time showing our heroes finding a way. Give the Justice League some wins along the way. This way, it seems more realistic when they win.
For example, the Justice League has no Green Lantern, Batman lost his ship and was eaten by a parasite, Wonder Woman and Aquaman are fighting each other thanks to Grodd’s Mind Control, Superman and J’onn are being controlled by villains, the Flash can’t move, and who knows what Joker did to Hawkgirl. My point: all looks lost. Don’t flip it around in one issue. Maybe Batman finds a way to FINALLY be who he used to be and escapes from inside Superman’s body and slowly takes back the Justice League.
But, notice the only thing worth nitpicking is something NOT in this issue. It’s something Snyder has done recently but who’s to say he’ll box himself in again? Recent research points in that direction, but we can only hope he doesn’t go down that gopher hole. As for THIS issue, gosh it was good! Keep them coming!
Should you pick up this issue?
Yes. But you’ll be lost if you jump in now. So, read JUSTICE LEAGUE #1-3 first. It won’t take long. You’ll have a blast. Trust me.
Should you add this to your pull list?
Four issues into the run and we have excellent pacing, fantastic art, amazing layouts, reasons that can be explained, action, adventure, a task for almost every member of the Justice League, and it’s just a fun read. Yes! If you haven’t added it yet, you’re just late to the party now.
What did you guys think of JUSTICE LEAGUE #4? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu
It’s Tuesday which means another episode of Gundam Build Divers is here to review. This time the team battles with an entire island at state.
Summary
The Build Divers must face off against Ayame’s old team in a battle to see who gets an island as their new base.
Review
While the previous episode was dedicated to simply showing off the new abilities of the Gundam 00 Sky, this episode decides to keep things light and ups the comedy. It features Ayame meeting with her old team which had potential for a dramatic and angst ridden experience. All the episode needed to was have her former teammates guilt trip her about deciding to stay with the Build Divers. If the creators had gone this route the melodrama would have been too intense. Instead it goes in a totally different direction and makes the episode mostly an amusing battle as the two teams play capture the flag. It’s a refreshing actually as legitimate laughs come out of the episode. The punchline at the end at the climax of the battle cements just how light and comedic the episode was supposed to be.
Is is a good thing the comedy lands properly because the episode doesn’t really advance the plot much. The mysterious individuals who are after Sarah haven’t made an appearance yet so the next major plot point has yet to start to unfold. Hopefully it will get going soon as this series is already more than half way done. While it has been an above average ride for the most part, a successful ending would cement the series as actually being essential watching for the Gundam fans. It will also help to solidify anticipation in fans for more content in the Gundam Build universe.
INJUSTICE VS. MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE #1 written by the terrific Tim Seeley, art brushed by Freddie E. Williams II, colored brightly by Jeremy Colwell, and letters displayed nicely by Wes Abbott throws Eternia and the Injustice DC Universe into a blender and spits out an exciting smoothie that looks like it’s going to be a fun time.
WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD!
INJUSTICE VS. MOTU #1 SPOILERS TOO!
The DENSITY of the issue
He-Man was missing for three months in which a robot faked to be him and instilled a Dictatorship over Eternia. However, his people kind of liked things the way they were under the imposter.
Swamp Thing and Zatanna capture Prince Adam and plead for his help. He-Man didn’t believe our Injustice heroes immediately BUT, since Eternia seemed pissed at him anyway, he decided to leave with Captain Teela and Orko to the Injustice DCU.
Meanwhile back on Earth, Superman is controlling the planet using Pre-Cognitive technology from Brainiac and working with Skeletor and another Batman to make it happen. Superman’s plan is to search the multiverse for all magical artifacts in hopes to gather and destroy them. Other than Kryptonite, magic is all that stands in his way. However, the issue ends with Darkseid gracing readers with his appearance. What in the world does Seeley and Williams II have in store next?
GREAT SCOTT!
Other than the first couple pages of catching the readers up to speed, Seeley and Williams II did a great job laying out the foundation of the run ahead. Readers are given a quick reason as to why our Injustice heroes are in Eternia AND why He-Man can jet for a bit to help our DC heroes out. Magic is the key to this mini, and I’m excited to see where it’s going to go from here.
The first example of my excitement comes in the form of Moss Man. Moss Man is connected to the Green is a well-done addition by Seeley. I don’t know if that’s a new thing or not BUT the idea that Moss Man is Swamp Thing in Eternia is terrific and pure genius!
THIS IS HEAVY
The intrigue doesn’t end there. New and old readers to Injustice will love seeing an evil Superman, especially one using Brainiac Tech. But seeing another Batman hooked up to the Pre-Cognitive technology was an exciting twist by Seeley towards the end of the issue. Who is that other Batman? Superman calls him Bruce. If he’s Bruce, then who is the Batman with He-Man? My interest is peaked!
After reading the HE-MAN/ THUNDERCATS crossover event and wondering what happened to Skeletor, it was cool to see Seeley reintroduce the character into the mythos. What would He-Man be without Skeletor? Readers find out that Injustice Superman picked him up while searching for magical artifacts. Again, Seeley did a fantastic job weaving the HE-MAN/ THUNDERCATS mini into Tom Taylors INJUSTICE world nicely.
He’s also giving readers Shazam in the Injustice Universe! We get a glimpse of a boy’s shoes that have a lightning bolt on them. It’s got to be Shazam, mainly because it looks like the background of Seeley’s mini is again magical artifacts. And what would a DC comic event be without Darkseid? Darkseid is, drawn so well by Williams II. The last splash page has so much detail, and Williams II draws him in a ruthless and menacing, the way Darkseid is supposed to be.
Hello McFly!
It’s hard to nitpick a comic that is basically out of continuity implying that practically anything goes, BUT Orko gave Cyborg dreadlocks…
Really?
ANDBatman laughs at Orko’s joke and wants him on the team because he makes him laugh.
Come on…
Some of the Williams II’s art was also a bit off. Batman is drawn HUGE! As in, bigger than Superman HUGE! And, his painted style isn’t bad it just makes the characters appear less real and more two dimensional, which isn’t my style.
Did this issue hit 88mph?
This sucker may not be nuclear, but Seeley’s going to give us some serious $&@$! out of the gate: He-Man, Swamp Thing, Evil Superman, possibly Shazam, and we end with Darkseid. The best part is; since this is not in continuity so he can go NUTS!
Should we come BACK in the FUTURE?
Absolutely! Jump in now, especially if you love He-Man, the Injustice Universe, or just the DCU in general. I left the issue confused on one thing: Harley calling Batman “baby bat.” Why? Does this explain the two Batmen? If you’re reading this Seeley, can’t you clean that part up for us? However, it’s just another reason to continue with the series to find out.
What did you guys think of INJUSTICE VS. MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE #1? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu
The Magic Order #2 from Mark Millar, Oliver Coipel, and Dave Stewart raises the stakes as it introduces a frightening villain.
The Magic Order #2 Written by: Mark Millar Art by: Oliver Coipel Colors by: Dave Stewart Letters by: Peter Doherty
We live in a world where we’ve never seen a monster, and The Magic Order is the reason we sleep safely in our beds. Magic meets the mob in THE MAGIC ORDER, as five families of magicians—sworn to protect our world for generations—must battle an enemy who’s picking them off one by one. By day, they live among us as our neighbors, friends, and co-workers, but by night, they are the sorcerers, magicians, and wizards that protect us from the forces of darkness…unless the darkness gets them first.
Mild Spoilers Below!!!
Writing
The Magic Order #2 starts with the following line, spoken by Cordelia Moonstone: “I guess I’ve been an escapologist since I escaped my own abortion”. A shocking piece of dialog like that is classic Mark Millar and is the perfect example of what you get in this fantastic issue. The narrative in Magic Order #2 is split between the origin of Cordelia and the continuation of the present day attacks on the various families. Both elements though help to push the overall arc forward, as we get some more crucial information on both fronts. In the past, Millar sheds more light on the darkness that surrounds the Moonstone family (infidelity, abuse, dysfunction) and in the present, we get the introduction of a nightmarish new villain, The Venetian (who’s masked visage makes me think there is someone important behind the mask). Millar’s imagination is unbound in both sequences, and fans of his high concept ideas will love a lot here; cars magically filling with water, a castle hidden in a painting, and a floating fetus transplanting itself in another womb are just a few examples of what you will get. It’s all incredibly inventive and entertaining.
Art
Once again Coipel and Stewart create a beautiful set of pages. Coipel’s fluid line work, along with Stewart’s atmospheric colors, create a book that can be filled with shocking moments (that floating fetus again!), but still feels elegant and beautiful to look at. The panel work is subtle but coupled with some dynamic layouts and gutter breaks, also give the reader a very consistent, narrative pace. This comic just looks so fucking good.
Conclusion
The Magic Order is setting up what seems like a fantastic world and a relentless story. This second issue dives right into both and is absolutely a must-read book.
Nova By Abnett & Lanning: The Complete Collection Volume 1 is out now, and it is the definitive run on the character.
The paperback collects Annihilation: Nova issues 1 through 4, and Nova issues 1 through 15. It’s all written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, with various artists including Kev Walker, Sean Chen, Wellinton Alves, and Paul Pelletier.
Watch our full video review:
Abnett and Lanning’s Nova was more than just a giant, epic sci-fi adventure story. It’s a coming-of-age tale. Richard Rider becomes a leader and a hero in the darkest of circumstances. There’s so much heart and depth to this comic, and yes, it’s also a giant, epic sci-fi adventure.
Everyone loves a good underdog story. Rich is a character forced into the spotlight. He’s forced to shoulder by himself a responsibility and a power that is literally meant for hundreds. It’s inspiring.
So whether you’re looking for big space action or a deep character study, Nova by Abnett & Lanning is for you.
If you’ve never read a Nova comic before, start here. It’s a perfect jumping on point, and it will make you fall in love with a character that most people have never heard of. And it features plenty of other cosmic characters that you have heard of, like the Guardians of the Galaxy. If you like those Guardians movies, you can thank Abnett & Lanning, because their work was largely the basis for them.
Who’s your favorite Marvel cosmic character? Comment below and let us know what character you think deserves more recognition!
Some movies will bring about laughter while others cause tears of joy.
Very few releases possess the ability to bring out a wide range of emotion, but when they do, it’s indicative of a fantastic film.
Then there’s that rare instance when a movie is so captivating, it touches the soul of its audience lingering indefinitely afterward. Blindspotting is a scintillating unapologetic look at the splintering of American culture as it strips the identity of inner-city families replacing those with gross generalizations. Rafael Casal and Daveed Diggs deftly crafted a tale reflective of the American experience in 2018 for minorities.
Blindspotting shines a light on what afflicts our country in hopes of sparking change which will benefit families for years to come. Children shouldn’t grow up having to learn surrendering techniques to the police just because they are an African American.
From L to R: Rafael Casal as “Miles,” Daveed Diggs as “Collin” and Jon Chaffin as “Dez” in BLINDSPOTTING.
Blindspotting centers around Collin (Daveed Diggs) and his final three days of probation. Collin is desperate for a new beginning but his best friend from childhood, Miles (Rafael Casal) and his behavior is making it extremely hard for him. While Collin is trying to stay clean, Miles is doing things like buying a handgun from Dez (Jon Chaffin). On the way home from work, Collin witnesses a police shooting which shakes him to his core. For the first time, these two friends have to grapple with their perceived identities and the impact those have. Will Collin always be just a felon? Why does Miles feel the need to be perceived as tough? How will the shifting dynamics of their neighborhood impact their struggle?
From L to R: Rafael Casal as “Miles,” Ziggy Baitinger as “Sean” and Jasmine Cephas-Jones as “Ashley” in BLINDSPOTTING.
Director Carlos López Estrada had a great feel for how best to visually get the message of Blindspotting across. Most of the settings were tightly confined areas giving the film an intimate feel. The intimacy even heightens the tension as audiences will feel so close to what is unfolding on screen. The pacing of the film was terrific. Estrada’s shining moment in the film had to the scene when Miles, Ashley, and Collin find Sean playing with the revolver his father (Miles) just bought. This is perhaps the slowest paced scene of the whole film and placing Sean dead center in the room was perfect. Miles, Ashley, Collin are overcome with fear as they slowly inch towards him, but Sean is mesmerized by the chamber of the gun. Sometimes the pacing and blocking of the scene are even more important than the actual words spoken.
Daveed Diggs as “Collin” and Janina Gavankar as “Val” in BLINDSPOTTING.
Robby Baumgartner’s cinematography highlighted both the beauty of Oakland and the ugliness stemming from the splintering of American culture. Blindspotting had numerous moments where the camera panned through the eclectic town capturing the intricate set of buildings that give the city its flavor. Baumgartner also made use of handheld cameras to get those more intimate moments. My favorite shot of the film was how they captured the initial police shooting. By placing the camera behind the truck they were able to share the action taking place outside and Collin’s reaction inside without changing perspective. We see the police shooting in the side mirror of a car, bringing the audience closer to this pivotal moment.
Diggs and Casal each give a career-defining performance full of passion that will leave theatergoers stunned. Blindspotting is the type of film audiences will be drawn to and awards voters love.
The last time I felt this confident about a film’s potential for impact was right after seeing Get Out. You need to see Blindspotting when it is playing in your area.
Seeing the WWE live and in person is a completely different experience from what you see on television. The excitement was at a whole new level as I attended WWE Extreme Rules at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
The announcement of Hulk Hogan’s reinstatement into the WWE Hall of Fame comes after a three-year suspension following a racist tirade on a sex tape made in 2012.
Early-day speculations hit online of something brewing with Hogan, as he was spotted in Cleveland, which is about a 2-hour drive from Pittsburgh. Later-day rumors were confirmed that Hogan had made his way to PPG Paints Arena, and was mingling with talent and executives prior to the event. He kept his correspondence strictly behind the curtain, and he didn’t make an appearance at the event in any form. Hogan apparently made his in-person apologies then departed the arena.
Sin Cara vs Andrade Cien Almas Photo: Twitter @wwe
As a last-minute addition to the pre-show, I don’t know why this match was even on the card, especially with the lack of other notable talents featured during the night. Not sure if the WWE is trying to give a little attention the205 Live crew with having Sin Cara appearing on SmackDown Live, or if are they just trying to push Andrade Cien Almas since his arrival from NXT. Regardless, all this match proved was that Almas can’t fly like a typical Lucha, but somehow ended up with the win.
I give major props to Kofi Kingston for his arm, or maybe just the weight of the inedible pancakes, but he threw those things so far that I almost ended up with one in my lap at 21 rows from the ring.
In a tables match, the first person to put an opponent through a table wins. The brute of the men of SAnitY made me think that the biggest men will fall the hardest. Turns out, all 6 brought their A-game. They executed a 5-man double stomp that was the most impressive maneuver of the night.
After being chewed on (really?!) by Wolfe, Kingston takes the fall through the table, giving SAnitY the win.
The B Team: Curtis Axel & Bo Dallas Photo: Twitter @wwe
The B Team is undefeated since splitting from The Miz and disbanding The Miztourage. And finally, real-life brothers Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas meet in the ring one on one. The match was fairly uneventful, but entertaining none the less. The B Team’s streak continues, and they are the new RAW Tag Team Champions.
RAW General Manager Kurt Angle Photo: Twitter @wwe
RAW General Manager Kurt Angle has had enough. The Universal Champion Brock Lesnar hasn’t been seen on WWE television since the Greatest Royal Rumble in April. Angle put out the decree that Lesnar either needs to appear at Monday Night RAW in Buffalo the next night, agree to a title defense, or he will be stripped of the title belt. The crowd went nuts for this, myself included. The WWE Universe is tired of that belt not being important, simply because it’s not seen. It’s about time that something is being done about this.
Since being appointed personally by Stepanie McMahon, Baron Corbin has asserted his power like a one-man reincarnation of The Authority. Yet, according to Finn Balor, Corbin’s new choice in wardrobe is something out of TGIFriday’s.
The size difference between these two men is unmistakable. Still, the strength and experience of Balor simply outweighed the size of Corbin. Balor wins easily.
SmackDown Live Women’s Championship: Asuka vs. Carmella (c)
Carmella vs. Asuka Photo: Twitter @wwe
James Ellsworth looked like he wanted to cry while being lifted into the air in a shark tank, but there’s no sympathy for that slimeball. He tossed Carmella tools of destruction including thick chains and a can of mace. However, locksmith Ellsworth opened the cage door, got his ankle bandana caught, and was suspended upside down. Asuka took full advantage of his vulnerability, but she lost focus on the fact that the match was against Carmella, not Ellsworth. The two ladies did very little tangling together, which was disappointing considering Asuka’s recent lackluster bookings. And still, ‘Mella is money.
Jeff Hardy vs. Shinsuke Nakamura Photo: Twitter @wwe
With both of these men coming off of recent injuries, I was worried that this match would be short and uneventful. Little did I know, that the match pretty much didn’t happen. Shinsuke Nakamura hit Jeff Hardy with a low-blow, and 5 seconds after the bell rang, there was a new United States Champion.
What worries me tremendously was that the last time Hardy had a match like this was with TNA in 2011. Then, higher-ups cut his match short because he was deemed too intoxicated to compete. Tonight he seemed completely with-it, but we never truly know what goes on behind that curtain.
In the only real twist and surprise of the night, the crowd lost its mind when the Viper’s music hit. Randy Orton made his way to the ring, staring down Nakamura. He soon turned his attention to Hardy, all while Nakamura looked on in surprise.
Kevin Owens vs. Braun Strowman Photo: Twitter @wwe
Due to his constant running, RAW General Manager Kurt Angle declared that Kevin Owens’ match against Braun Strowman would take place in a steel cage. Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide.
Owens quickly plotted his escape from the ring, all while Strowman called Owens out as a coward. Owens brought the fight, even handcuffing Stowman to the ring ropes. His escape was ill-fated, as Strowman threw Owens off the top of the cage. It was reminiscent of a similar match of 20 years ago, ironically in the same city, where The Undertaker threw Mankind from atop the Hell in a Cell. The fall wasn’t from as high, and the level of carnage wasn’t as bad, but Owens’ win didn’t come without some mangling.
SmackDown Live Tag Team Championship: Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan & Kane) vs. The Bludgeon Brothers (Harper & Rowan) (c)
Bludgeon Brothers vs. Team Hell No Photo: Twitter @wwe
It seems that the recently reunited Team Hell No may have the same fate of the reunification of The Shield from last fall. In a backstage attack, Team Hell No took a beating from The Bludgeon Brothers. Kane took the brunt of the hits, and it seemed that this match would be in limbo.
But, Daniel Bryan emerged alone and agreed to compete in the match with a handicap. It didn’t seem like a great idea, and Bryan constantly held his ribs, but he still got in a few great “Yes” kicks before his teammate Kane arrived in an ankle boot. Yet, his help wasn’t enough, and The Bludgeon Brothers retain.
Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley Photo: Twitter @wwe
Roman Reigns likes to call out those who aren’t the workhorse that he is. He did it with John Cena before last September’s No Mercy pay per view, he did it with Brock Lesnar prior to Wrestlemania, and he’s done it again with the recently re-signed Bobby Lashley. Their heated rivalry came to a head at last Monday’s RAW where it took the entire men’s locker room to keep these two apart. That ended with a swan-dive from Reigns that was impressive and unexpected.
Reign’s unfortunate relationship with the crowd and Lashley’s irrelevance since his return made this yet another pay per view match of Reigns’ that no one cared about. This time the crowd chants were “Johnny Wrestling” and “We want beach balls.” Other than the chants, the crowd was fairly quiet.
Lashley dominated, hitting Reigns with spears that he normally delivers. The match itself was slow, showing that neither man, based on their size, can throw constantly. And, apparently, it’s now Lashley’s yard.
In the only “Extreme Rules” match of the night, this match should have been plugged better, and it should have been either the main event or at least the next-to main event. With the way the match went, though, perhaps it was better this way.
Mickie James pulled tools out from under the ring like a child rooting through a toy box searching for that specific plaything. The ring was littered with trashcans and folding chairs, but they were used sparingly.
All it took was James to attack Jax’s valet Natalya for spectator Ronda Rousey to lose her cool. She unleashed on James, but it didn’t have much effect on the match. Bliss is still champion and still sneering at Rousey over it.
In his first WWE Championship match, Rusev brought strength and confidence. He’s still a brute, though, and AJ Styles simply outplayed him. While Rusev hit several great Matchka kicks, AJ Styles flew all over the ring. Summersaults galore, Pele kicks, and Phenomenal Forearms were constant, and those ultimately gave Styles the win to keep the championship belt across his waist.
Seth Rollins vs. Dolph Ziggler Photo: Twitter @wwe
With both men’s stature and physique, I was most looking forward to this match. They’re both simply entertaining and on the top of their games. Of the entire roster, these were the guys who could handle a 30-minute ironman match without breaking a sweat or losing their breath.
While the match itself was fun and exciting, the crowd killed his match. Unfortunately, Pittsburgh fans can be idiots… and tonight proved it. (Remember, I was there, I’m from the area, and it’s not a lie.) The fans started counting down every minute like it was the Royal Rumble, and it was incredibly distracting. At one point, which was seriously downplayed on television, the clock was removed from the trons to deter the chants. Nope, the fans kept up, counting and buzzing when it wasn’t time to do so. The downside of removing the clock for the fans, it also left Rollins and Ziggler without knowing where they stood in the match time. If the crowd would have actually paid attention, they’d have witnessed a great match. I’d like to personally apologize to Rollins and Ziggler, as they both deserved a better crowd. Please know that all Pittsburgh fans are not jerks.
Pittsburgh’s own Kurt Angle appears on the ramp after the tie, declaring that they would go to sudden death. That didn’t last long, as Drew McIntyre (who had previously been tossed from ringside) interfered, causing Rollins to lose to Ziggler. Shouldn’t that have been a disqualification on Ziggler’s part and Rollins should be Intercontinental Champion again? Those Shield brothers keep getting screwed by the referees lately, don’t they…
Overall, this event had a solid card, but some of the matches were weak, and there weren’t enough plot twists or surprises for a pay per view.
Right now, I’m just worried that the WWE won’t rush to have the City of Pittsburgh host another pay per view any time soon after the fans’ behavior. Although, if we get another event, I’ll be the first in line for tickets.
How did our predictions pan out? Be sure to give a listen to the Mixed Tag Mayhem podcast with me and TV Editor Tom Chang where we preview each match and discuss all things WWE.
What were your thoughts on the event? Were you surprised with any of the match outcomes?
The Invincible Iron Man: The Search For Tony Stark is out now in trade paperback, and it’s…fine?
The trade collects issues 595 through 600 of Invincible, the end of Brian Michael Bendis’ stint as writer before his move to the Distinguished Competition. It’s drawn by Stefano Caselli and Alex Maleev, with colors by Marte Garcia and Israel Silva, and letters by Clayton Cowles.
Check out our whole video review here:
In short, this story is pretty cluttered. We have three different Iron Man stories going on at once, and it costs the book its heart. Understandably, Bendis was trying to wrap up his run and all the various plot points, but it feels rushed.
That being said, it’s still worth a read for Iron Man fans. Though it’s devoid of much depth, there are still plenty of fun character moments and action scenes.
Doctor Doom’s story is actually the most interesting; who doesn’t love a good redemption story? It unfortunately gets buried beneath the “search for Tony” stuff, but Alex Maleev’s art is stellar and it should inspire fans to go pick up his and Bendis’ Infamous Iron Man if they haven’t already.
This is not the best jumping on point for new fans of the character. A better bet would be the first issue of Dan Slott’s run that picks up after Bendis’.
What did you think of Bendis’ Iron Man run? Do you like video reviews or written reviews? Comment below and let us know!
