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GREEN ARROW #42 Review: Of Monsters and Men

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GREEN ARROW #42 written by Mairghread Scott, pencils by Matthew Clark, inks by Sean Parsons, colors by Jason Wright, and letters by Deron Bennett breaks through the walls of your comic shop this week as Scott brings us closer to what makes someone a “monster.”

How do you treat a real monster? A true killer? Do they “deserve” to be mistreated and abused for what they’ve done? OR, does that make you just as awful as them? Mairghread Scott raises these difficult questions and so much more in this week’s GREEN ARROW. Let’s jump in!

WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD

Spoilers

GREEN ARROW #42 SPOILERS TOO!

GREEN ARROW #42

Parasitic Roid Rage

Scott opens the issue by showing the reader a roided-out Parasite juiced up on the general population of his cell block. Oh, and by the way, he’s loose in the sewers trying to escape to Metropolis. So, it’s up to our lean, mean, Green Arrow shooting machine to bring him in since our other heroes are busy right now.

SEE JUSTICE LEAGUE #3

Just take a look at the impressive art by this team above. Matthew Clark, Sean Parsons, and Jason Wright draw this massively huge, grotesque, Parasite hovering over Green Arrow dwarfing this averagely accurate Joe and making this battle seem impossible to win. Will Ollie find a way to stop him?

GREEN ARROW #42

Speaking of this art team, look at the creative display on this page above. Clark, Parsons, and Wright layout each panel in an amazingly crafty way. The panels are broken up by the same flying arrows that Green Arrow is shooting to take down Parasite.  That takes skill, thought, and planning to weave that type of storytelling together.  This team is doing an excellent job this issue.

Review green arrow issue 42

Prison Rules

As the story continues, Green Arrow is merely buying time and playing with Parasite. If he can get him to burn out and lose power, he’ll shrink down to normal size and be easier for Ollie to manage.

The Emerald Archer’s idea works well, BUT Parasite gives us an accurate rundown of what’s going on in lockup. It turns out; Parasite would rather die than go back to prison. His conditions are awful, and he’s mentally and physically abused.

Review green arrow issue 42

Look at the conditions Parasite has been confined too above. This creative team shows a man wanting to die. He’s not permitted to be around any other prisoners AND can’t have any electricity or anything giving off energy in general.  Why? Because he would absorb the power and breakout.

However, Scott does a tremendous job painting both sides of this picture. The Warden elaborates with some excellent points as well. The League, including heroes like Green Arrow, stops villains and saves the day BUT what happens to those villains afterward? Who takes care of them? Where do you put them? The Warden makes a point to tell Green Arrow that he’s doing the best he can. But is it good enough?

Review green arrow issue 42

Mairghread Scott ends this issue with the Parasite freaking out one last time and trying to get away on pure adrenaline. The Warden tracks down Parasite in the sewer and tries to shoot him with a serum that will neutralize his abilities. After he’s unable to get the shot off, Green Arrow steps up and saves the day with pinpoint accuracy.

Things to Think about…

This issue brought up some great questions. How do you treat a real monster? A true killer?  Do they “deserve” to be mistreated and abused for what they’ve done?

I can’t speak for everyone on this, BUT I feel like the “heroes code” shown in most comics would dictate that our heroes are not the judge, the jury, or executioner of any living thing. Their job is only to protect people the best they can. Therefore, all humans and meta-humans alike have to work together and support the rehabilitation of these villains. But was the Warden doing that? Who knows for sure… but they are excellent discussion question over a cup of coffee! If you want my personal beliefs, hit me up on twitter.

Review green arrow issue 42

Should you pick up this issue?

Honestly, it ends this arc and doesn’t share a ton about the overall story direction of what’s to come. In a way, the issue is more like a one shot. If you skip it, you’ll be fine. That said; the issue raises some tremendous moral questions and coffee talk with your friends.

I’d say pick it up if you enjoy Green Arrow and philosophical discussions. Otherwise, don’t worry about grabbing it this week. 

Should you add this series to your pull?

I’d hold off for right now. Wait until the new creative team pops in and see how they do. Please understand that takes nothing away from THIS issue. This team did a fantastic job creating an enjoyable read, but the Benson’s are on the way which could alter the direction of Green Arrow. I’d wait to add it to my pull until then.

Well, what did you guys think of GREEN ARROW #42? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu

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DEATH OF THE INHUMANS #1 Review: Vox Romana

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DEATH OF THE INHUMANS #1 written by Donny Cates, art by Ariel Olivetti, colors by Jordie Bellaire, and letters by Clayton Cowles finally hits the shelves this week as Cates’ highly anticipated event leaves readers wondering; is this the end of the Inhumans?

Cates kicks off this series with death, annihilation, and genocide led by a new ruthless Inhuman named Vox, who looks like a creepy Lord Zed from Power Rangers. Who will be left standing after this issue? Let’s jump in and find out!

WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD!

DEATH OF INHUMANS #1 SPOILERS!!

Spoilers. I know many of you hate them. But, you know what they say, When in Rome… was an amazing band!!! If you don’t believe me, look them up. I Promise you’ll love them!!

Review death of inhumans issue 1

Inhuman Background 

Cates opens the issue with some background to get the readers up to speed. The Kree experimented around the galaxy creating soldiers with abilities for their war against the cosmos. They did this to 5 different factions in the universe; one of which is the Inhumans we know led by Black Bolt.

Nervous of a prophecy foretelling of the Midnight King destroying the Kree, the Supreme Intelligence sent out a galactic-wide genocide of all branches of Inhumans.  Led by a villain created by the Kree containing various abilities of the Inhumans, Vox tore through the galaxy with a scythe of destruction.

Review death of the Inhumans issue 1

Roman & Biblical Tones

Black Bolt leaves New Arctilan with his closest friends and compatriots to meet with the other four Inhuman factions at an undisclosed location. Black Bolt and his Inhumans arrive only to find the other four groups and heir Queens gruesomely killed.

Now, pay close attention to what Cates and Olivetti do in the above image because the creative genius is impressive. The four Queens are basically crucified, which was something the Ancient Romans did during the Pax Romana. If you remember from earlier in the story, Black Bolt was discussing how the Ancient Roman culture was and later references how “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Point is: if you are not familiar with Roman or Biblical History, you would just read this issue and pass some of these subtle nuances right by. But the Queen’s above were crucified, which was done to set a tone to any that oppose. Sure, it wasn’t on a cross, but the symbolism is there.

The Kree, led by Vox, is sending a message to all the Inhumans. They are gonna die and it’s going to be horrific, bloody, and painful. Excellent symbolism and teamwork by Cates and Olivetti!

Review death of the Inhumans issue 1

Hidden Agendas 

Triton realizes at the last minute that Vox set up a bomb to attempt to kill Black Bolt.  However, the most badass dog in all the nine realms saves the day again!  Lockjaw teleports everyone out just in time-saving everyone but Triton.

Medusa realizes that this bomb wasn’t meant to kill but only to injure and keep them occupied. Why? Because Vox wanted them away to slaughter all the Inhumans left at New Arctilan.

Review death of the Inhumans issue 1

Lord Zed, I mean Vox (above), does look pretty menacing here by Olivetti and her art team. However, don’t you think Vox could also be “the Midnight King” that was foretold to the Kree Supreme Intelligence? Just a thought.

Cates throws a curveball into the mix and kills everyone right out of the gate. Now, he sends Vox to slaughter all of the Inhumans left at New Arctilan, including Black Bolt’s brother Maximus the Mad. Once Black Bolt realizes Vox’s plan, he realizes he needs to get home fast. Lockjaw is still too far away to teleport anyone there.

Review death of the Inhumans issue 1

Whisper Down the Lane

Above, you’ll see one of my favorite pages of the issue. Cates & Olivetti are working so well together throughout this issue, and this page shows just how they make the strawberry jam taste so dang good!

Look at how Cates uses Black Bolt’s powers to get his compatriots close enough for Lockjaw to use his teleportation ability. Even just a whisper from Black Bolt, sends them blasting through space faster than their engines.

Also, look at how Olivetti paints this picture with the help of Bellaire and Cowles. Black Bolt is so small compared to his ship. AND the black, darkness of space is colored so well done, making the situation seem so lonely, hopeless, and lost.

Better yet, the small and straightforward lettering by Cowles to show that all Black Bolt needs to do to move his gigantic ship across space at close to light speeds, is to whisper into space out the back. Together, this page shows the time and preparation this team took into creating this issue. Amazing job!

Review death of the Inhumans issue 1

Don’t Mess with Lockjaw 

Once in range, Lockjaw teleports in and attempts to save Maximus only to have Vox hit them both with some type of red energy while (I think) Lockjaw tried to teleport them both away. The issue ends with Black Bolt arriving with his crew to see them decimated remains of New Arctilan and his people.

Review death of the Inhumans issue 1

Cates & Olivetti do a fantastic job kick starting this series out of the gate with death, destruction, and characters we know actually dying. This is going to be a fun ride. However, I hope you’re listening Cates.

PLEASE ! Don’t kill LOCKJAW

If the Inhumans got to go, fine. But not Lockjaw. Seriously, 2 of my little boys think he is the coolest dog ever! I think he’s the coolest pet ever! Heck, anyone with little kids, go read Pet Avengers. It’s great! Don’t make me tell my boys he’s dead.  AND, it kind of looked like you killed him there at the end. Just saying….

Also, where is Blinky and Crusher Creel? They were just in the Black Bolt series.

Should you pick up this issue?

Yes! Great start! Great art! And, I have faith that Cates will not kill the world’s most amazing animal. Lockjaw will survive. HE MUST!

Should you add this series to your pull?

Absolutely! I think we have enough background on Cates to know how amazing his stories can be. Now’s your chance to hop on the train as it leaves the station. It really was a great action-packed start to the series.  I have no doubt you’ll enjoy it as long as Lockjaw doesn’t die.

Well, what did you guys think of DEATH OF THE INHUMANS #1? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu

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Review: STEVEN UNIVERSE: The Question

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The Heart of the Crystal Gems event continues as a week of new Steven Universe keeps delighting the fans. Will this episode break the string of good episodes as of late?

Summary

Steven and Amethyst find Ruby with Greg.

Review

This is another episode dedicated to looking at the effects of the revelation behind Rose Quartz. This time it’s Steven’s dad, Greg who takes a moment to showcase how he feels about this information. The man finds out the mother of his child was someone else and his reaction is actually very logical. Why should he be mad Rose didn’t tell him who she used to be? He didn’t tell her who he was before becoming Mister Universe the rockstar. Both of them had pasts they couldn’t deal with and instead decided to embrace a new present together. It’s very touching when you think about it.

Speaking about touching, Ruby tries to put on a brave front and tries to be a cowboy but this is just so she doesn’t have to think about the fact she and Sapphire got into a fight. This offers Ruby something she has never had before: Freedom. Going out on her own without a care in the world and finally making her own decisions. Except there is something more to this episode than just “Ruby becomes a cowboy.”

The episode addresses the fact even when someone is alone and making important choices, it doesn’t mean their mind isn’t somewhere else. It’s hard to let go of someone after they have been a big part of your life for so long and even though you are going about your life it can still weight on you as a person. It plays to a lot of aspects and will help the younger viewers understand doing something important alone doesn’t mean it helps a person forget their troubles entirely. Often your problems can follow you wherever you go. It’s a very adult concept broken down in a very bitesize helping.

Everything leads to an adorable moment fans have been hoping would happen for a very long time. It offers a feel good, heartwarming experience which really plays at the heartstrings. This episode of seems lackluster at first but by the end it has a offers a lot of great moments which will have the fans giddy by the end.

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Amazon Celebrates July 4th By Dropping A Brand New JACK RYAN trailer

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In the midst of cookouts and massive displays of fireworks, Amazon just released a brand new action-packed trailer for their upcoming show Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan. 

The trailer effectively uses quotes from speeches given by President Trump, President Kennedy, and President Clinton alluding to the challenges which come in the fight against terrorists. We initially see Ryan (John Krasinski) in his cubicle doing something rather mundane when then quickly transitions into some explosive imagery outlining for the viewers what lies ahead in the first season. What stood out to me is how quickly the trailer could convey Ryan’s initial reluctance. That paired with a rendition of “All Along The Watchtower” and the result is a fantastic tease for what’s to come once the show releases August 31st. Here’s the trailer –

Did anyone catch how they used Kennedy’s quote (“a new frontier”) right when the image of the drone appeared on screen? Could that be a sign of what’s to come this season? Perhaps a significant portion of Jack Ryan’s first season will focus on the use of drones in the war on terror.

Jack Ryan

Amazon’s series will be more of an updated take on one of Tom Clancy’s more iconic characters. Carlton Cuse and Graham Roland’s vision is more of an origin tale. Ryan is much younger and unassuming in this series making Kransinski a perfect choice for the role.

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Miles Teller Cast As Goose’s Son In TOP GUN: MAVERICK

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Paramount Pictures confirmed a report in Variety late Tuesday that Miles Teller had indeed been cast as the late Nicholas “Goose” Bradshaw’s son in Top Gun: Maverick. Tom Cruise is returning to play Peter “Maverick” Mitchell who is now an instructor at the very flight academy where he enjoyed buzzing the tower. Teller seemingly confirmed the news yesterday on social media –

It had been long rumored that actor Glen Powell was in the running for the part. Some reports even had him being one of the finalists along with Teller and Nicholas Hoult for the role which may explain this tweet –

Joe Kosinski (Only The Brave) is set to direct the highly anticipated sequel which marks the second time he’s worked with Teller. While Kosinski might feel more comfortable with Teller, he’s missing a golden opportunity by not casting Powell. If anyone were to take a photo of both actors and put it next to a picture of Anthony Edwards and Meg Ryan (Edwards played Goose and Ryan was his wife in the first film), Powell easily looks like he’d be their son. Alas, common sense doesn’t often prevail when casting decisions are made in Hollywood.

Top Gun: Maverick

Returning for the sequel as well is Val Kilmer who will reprise his role as Tom “Ice Man” Kazansky. Top Gun: Maverick is slated to open in July of 2019.

 

 

 

 

 

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Review: THE MAN OF STEEL #6 Concludes Bendis’ Intro to his Superman Run

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The finale to The Man of Steel brings mysteries to a close in a phenomenal way.

Last week was another attempt by the man of steel taking down Rogol Zaar. Unfortunately, as we have seen building up to this, he is incredibly difficult to fight. Their battle leaves Superman badly beaten on the moon with Rogol preparing to destroy Earth. As Supergirl brings him back, we learn through flashback what has happened to Jon and Lois. The machine that appeared in their home a few issues back was Jor-El, offering to teach Jon of the galaxy. The only way to properly get this teaching, however, is to go on a trip around it. Knowing his son and Earth won’t be safe with Rogol Zaar still out there, Superman springs into action. How will the man of steel defeat such a monster?

The Man of Steel #6 cover

**Some Spoilers Below**

Story:

Superman finds Rogol Zaar preparing a bomb in the center of the Earth to destroy the planet as he did with Krypton. Superman quickly takes the weapon away from the planet, believing it is his responsibility alone to stop this. Rogol quickly catches up to the man of steel, but before he can set off the bomb, Supergirl comes in to assist. The Kryptonians separate the alien from his weapon, allowing Supergirl a chance to send him into the Phantom Zone. The miniseries ends by answering the question laid out during the build-up, including the fates of Jon and Lois.

the man of steel 6 p1

While there are some flaws in the plot, I can’t say that I didn’t enjoy. The action is very entertaining, and there is plenty of character moments that will tug at readers’ heartstrings. One moment that is done very well is Superman in the aftermath of the battle. He returns home, goes to Jon’s room and sits there, coming to grips with the fact Rogol destroyed his only way to talk to his family. His family will be back, as we learned in the flashbacks, but it is depressing to see Superman hit this emotional low. The issue also set the stage for the series to come, with the mystery of the Metropolis arsons taking an unexpected turn. As it stands, this issue and the miniseries opened the door for Bendis’ Superman, and I can’t wait to see where we go now.

 

Art:

Jason Fabok, who has been illustrating the flashbacks of the miniseries, has stepped up for this issue. His artwork makes the story feel cinematic and larger than life, especially with the fight against Rogol. You can feel the intensity with every blow thanks to the fantastic detail in every drawing. Alex Sinclair’s colorwork compliments Fabok’s style masterfully, allowing the world to feel more alive and real. The team went above and beyond to try and deliver an excellent looking finale, and they succeeded.

the man of steel #6 p2

Conclusion:

While it had its missteps, the finale to the Man of Steel miniseries is a good read overall. It had exciting action, interesting character moments, and sets up the coming series. The art team has stepped up to deliver art to send the miniseries out right.  This is a great ending to a fantastic miniseries.

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Review: DAMSEL Is A Perfect Example Of Why Less Is Often More

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The Zellner brothers’ Damsel is a whimsical take on westerns which is so far removed what audiences are accustomed to, it distracts from beautiful cinematography and standout moments in the film.

Don’t expect to walk into Damsel witnessing a narrative reminiscent of any number of John Ford’s classics which ignited a generation’s interest in the genre. While the storyline of his westerns was more reminiscent of what audiences loved, there comes the point when those involved with production can get too cute. Damsel desperately wants to stand out from other films, but in the Zellner brothers’ quest to do so, they lost sight of their primary goal of creating something entertaining.

Damsel
Mia Wasikowska in DAMSEL, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

The film centers around Samuel Alabaster (Robert Pattinson), who is out to rescue Penelope (Mia Wasikowska) from her alleged kidnapper. Alabaster is driven by desire and longs to be with his one true love. As he closes in, it becomes apparent that having backup will be crucial if he’s to rescue Penelope successfully. Alabaster hires Parson Henry (David Zellner) who spends most of his time finishing bottles rather than learning scripture. They set out together to find Mia, along with a miniature horse named Butterscotch. However, what seems like a classic tale of rescuing a damsel in distress becomes something much different.

Damsel
Mia Wasikowska in DAMSEL, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

The Zellners’ narrative is contrived and full of plot points which are, quite frankly, unnecessary. It’s fairly obvious they wanted to take commonly known Western tropes and flip them on their head. Then why must we spend sixty percent of the film focused on the parson’s proclivity for drinking? Was it necessary to make the town folk just over the top versions of what we’ve seen in other releases? Damsel spends a great deal of the film trying to establish Pattinson’s character as a sympathetic figure and then throws it all away in a five-minute span. Why not just start with the perceived “damsel” being the heroine from the get-go? There comes a point when it becomes too much. Damsel is focused on creating “original” content at the expense of compelling material.

Adam Stone’s cinematography was something that stood out most from Damsel. Stone’s images focused on capturing the natural beauty surrounding these individuals living miles from civilization. The film had countless shots of the foliage, the lush green fields surrounding their cabins, and close shots of any animal they encountered.

The Octopus Project’s music stoked images of a forgotten past and a genre once adored by all. However, even the best musicians can’t overcome mundane performances in what amounts to a meandering tale. Perhaps it was the source material or the direction? Whatever the issues might have been, Damsel does nothing to elicit any recommendation and should be avoided entirely.

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Rosenberg & Land Give ASTONISHING X-MEN A Major Face-Lift

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Astonishing X-Men gets a face-lift in the form of a new creative team. Lead by writer Matthew Rosenberg and artist Greg Land, this new lineup and direction is a very promising one.

Astonishing X-Men 13 cvr

***SPOILERS LIE AHEAD***

 

X-Men fan-favorite, Alex Summers, returns to his normal self. Havok is looking to get back to his heroic ways with a new X-Men team. After a public humiliation at the hands of the Avengers, his search for teammates gets off to a rocky start.

Right away, it feels so good to have Havok back to normal and in his classic costume. His characterization is a bit puzzling at first, he reads more like Jamie Madrox (who Rosenberg is also currently writing on Multiple Man) but there’s only a brief adjustment period. His new attitude sets a light tone that is sure to smack a smile onto the face of every die-hard X-fan.

Matthew Rosenberg has absolutely been on fire recently with his Marvel contributions, this seems to be another great addition to his collection of X-Men work. There’s an injection of joy and excitement that was missing towards the end of Charles Soule’s 12-issue run of Astonishing X-Men. With the heavy dose of humor, there’s also a star-studded cast that bounce perfectly off of Summers as he takes a tour through some of Marvel’s mutants.

The little character moments are fantastic. Alex and Hank talking about superhero fatigue, Kitty phasing through the chalk-board, Havok getting the Stark treatment, etc. Astonishing X-Men #13 has so much charm spread throughout all of the featured characters. Havok’s thirst for being an X-Men and what it means to him puts him right in the reader’s shoes.

Greg Land may be the biggest source of joy in this issue, and not just for the fantastic cover art. Havok looks incredible in his classic costume, his abilities are illustrated in glorious fashion. Land delivers on every character, making them all distinctly different and visually pleasing. Colorist Frank D’Armata has an electric chemistry with the comic’s artist, treating us to some of the finest work for both creators.

As X-Men: Gold and X-Men: Blue trend more and more into obscurity, irrelevance, and apparent cancellation, Astonishing X-Men emerges to keep X-Men fans satisfied. Between Astonishing X-Men and X-Men: Red, Marvel has their new flagship X-books. It’s safe to say at this point, any time you see Matthew Rosenberg writing mutants you need to pick it up.

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Coates Brings New Life & Perspective To CAPTAIN AMERICA

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Can you think of a better way for comic book fans to celebrate The 4th Of July than a monumental Captain America debut? Writer Ta-Nehisi Coates and artist Leinil Francis Yu kickstart a new era for our favorite red, white, and blue soldier boy when we need him most.

Captain America 1 cvr

***SPOILERS LIE AHEAD***

 

Not too far removed from the events of Secret Empire, Captain America finds himself in an unfamiliar setting. His beloved country is broken, it’s people divided and angry, even his trusted allies don’t provide their usual support. Steve Rogers has an American mess to sort out, and it’s got Hydra’s finger prints all over it.

Ta-Nehisi Coates comes out of the gate with a subtly powerful swing on his first Captain America issue. Steve’s world is an uneasy one that could explode at seemingly any minute. This clearly reflects the state of our own lives in this current era we live in, but without beating us over the head with it. If any character can lead us through the dark times with a strong head on our shoulders, it’s Captain America. Coates is well aware of that and isn’t taking this opportunity lightly.

The atmosphere of this issue is murky, unsettling, and anxious. Readers find themselves right along with Steve, trying to find a light to shine on a country full of violence and misguidance. There’s a dark cloud following Cap that he doesn’t know how to shake.

We’re also treated to some classic Captain America moments as he jumps into action, saving lives threatened by patriotic lunatics. Steve’s narration throughout the issue sets the tone of where his head’s at as he sorts through the events of yesterday and today. Coates gives him a strong and focused voice, making it clear that Steve is the man we need him to be.

While this is nowhere near a simple comic book confronting the politics of today, there’s clearly a correlation. Coates masterfully finds a way to craft a Captain America story that could be not only be applied to the state of the world today, but that of almost any era. These fears are not new, they’re just more amplified now.

Captain America comic books haven’t necessarily had much weight to them in recent years. Coates is bringing a perspective to them that is both fresh and dignified. It’s only the first issue, but he’s got the right voice and is ready to make Cap stand for something again. This is the first time in a long time that Steve has read strictly like comic book Cap and not Chris Evans (no disrespect).

Leinil Francis Yu does a spectacular job making this feel like a classic Captain America book. The action is top-notch, the emotional beats carry weight and illustrate character struggles. This isn’t the bright and happy pulp comic that we got from Waid and Samnee. It’s also not the dark and tone of hopelessness we got from Spencer’s run.

Colorist Sunny Gho has a lot to do with balancing out this issue’s art. There are plenty of bright panels, but never does it get into poppy-bubble-gum territory. We’re not hammered into the ground with a dreary and dark pallet of sadness. It’s an effective balance.

This could end up being one of those Captain America runs that finds its way onto essential reading lists for the character. The tone, look, plot, and structure is exactly what it should be. Captain America‘s creative team seems to be up to the task. If this issue is any indication, we’re in for a real great series.

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Kimberly Peirce Is In The Running To Direct Black Widow

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Marvel Studios is searching for a female director for the Black Widow movie.

One name stands out in particular, though.

According to Comic Book Resources, Kimberly Peirce is on the shortlist for the gig. If true, Black Widow would be her first superhero film.

Avengers

 

 

In a CBR.com report, Peirce is just one of a few in contention for the job. The list of candidates comes from a roster of 49 names. Among the names include directors Amma Assante, Maggie Betts and Cate Shortland. Assange is known for directing Belle, and Betts has helmed Novitiate. Shortland is known for her work in indie films like Somersault, Lore and Berlin Syndrome.

Peirce is best known as the director of the 1999 Boys Don’t Cry film. Hillary Swank would win her first Academy Award for playing the role of Brandon Teena. Next, Peirce would make Stop Loss and the remake of Carrie, the latter starring Chloe Grace Moretz. Her films typically revolve around a female protagonist and themes of gender.

However, Peirce is also capable of directing action movies. For example, Stop-Loss concerns soldiers in the Iraq War and the lasting effects of PTSD. She is capable of getting great performances out of actors in her films. Such examples include Peter Sarsgaard, Chloe Sevigny, Ryan Phillippe, and Channing Tatum.

This is the latest sign that Marvel Studios is trying to be more inclusive in Hollywood. In the wake of Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman, the studios have been trying to catch up. Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige has interest in more females directing films. He’s also given hints that LGBT characters will show up in the MCU. With Captain Marvel on the way, we could see more female-driven stories in the near future.

One thing is clear; Scarlett Johansson is itching to make Black Widow. Eight years on, the actress has been a staple presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Since her debut in Iron Man 2, the demand for a solo film has grown.

She's liked but not enough to be our #1 Marvel Hero.
She’s liked but not enough to be our #1 Marvel Hero.

In an interview, Johansson says she is game for a Black Widow movie. “I think there is definitely an opportunity to explore the Widow as a woman who has kind of come into her own,” she says. “You know, she hasn’t always had that possibility, so if it fit that criteria, then, yes, I would want to do it.”

Little is known about the plot, but the story could take past in Black Widow’s past. According to her S.H.I.E.L.D file in Winter Soldier, Natasha’s birth year is said to be 1984 (same as Johansson). However, this could be a cover story, as she has been alive in the comics for decades thanks to her biotech enhancements. Theoretically, it is possible for Natasha to be around even longer.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has already given hints of Natasha’s background. Avengers: Age of Ultron and Agent Carter show glimpses of the Red Room, where she would undergo training. The Black Widow program is said to have been the KGB’s attempt to create a super soldier of their own. Agent Carter did reveal the project’s plan had been ongoing since the World War II years. Presumably, Natasha is just one of many Black Widows throughout history.

As part of her training, Natasha’s enhancements did render her unable to have children. This fact is dealt with in Age of Ultron. The themes of identity, gender and self are perfect for a solo film. Peirce’s past work with these themes makes her a great choice for a Black Widow movie.

There’s also speculation the film will show Natasha’s early dealings with Bucky Barnes. The Winder Soldier confirms she has dealt with him before. Natasha is said to have a past with Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye. Aside from her affair with Bruce Banner, her history with Clint is something fans have been wanting to see more of. Besides, having a relationship with the Hulk raises too many problems.

Hulk Black Widow

Black Widow might depict the 2003 Budapest incident, which is hinted at in The Avengers. To date, Marvel has yet to reveal the full story of what took place. While the details are vague, it is known something terrible did happen in Budapest. This would leave a lasting impact on Natasha, which plays a big role in her arc. Seeing the event onscreen could be an interesting idea for the film. It would explain her desire to be a better person and redeem herself.

Expect Black Widow to arrive in theatres sometime during Phase Four.

 

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