Coates Brings New Life & Perspective To CAPTAIN AMERICA

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.

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

Jonathan Bruce

July 4, 2018

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.

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.

Add Kimberly Peirce (Boys Don't Cry) to the shortlist of possible directors for Marvel's BLACK WIDOW.

— Jeff Sneider (@TheInSneider) July 2, 2018

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.

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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JUSTICE LEAGUE #3 Review: Umbrax-ton Hicks Contraction?

Dispatchdcu

JUSTICE LEAGUE #3 written by Scott Snyder, art by Jorge Jimenez, colors by Alejandro Sanchez, and letters by Tom Napolitano explodes on to your shelves this week as Snyder begins to change the DC landscape forever!

Between Snyder’s nonstop action and Jorge Jimenez’ mind-blowing art, you’ll leave this issue feeling like you just left a Summer Blockbuster!

JUSTICE LEAGUE #3 SPOILERS AHEAD

Snyder open’s the issue by telling us that Sinestro was an archaeologist that found the same symbols that J’onn saw last issue long ago before he was a Lantern. This background of Sinestro was a fascinating and creative way to dive even deeper into the Lantern mythos, which is so entrenched with DC lore.

This opening helps the reader “feel” like these new threats that are engulfing the DC landscape aren’t new at all. When in reality, they first appeared in JUSTICE LEAGUE: NO JUSTICE. What a genius idea.

The Source of the Problem

Next, Snyder introduces the reader to the being controlling this new Ultraviolet emotional spectrum, which is an entire Living Galaxy powered by a Sentient Black Sun called “Umbrax”. (I know… heavy right?) Umbrax’s purpose is to move throughout galaxies finding destructive forces and draw them into his galaxy.

With the Source Wall breaking, it released the Totality into our galaxy. By the end of the issue, the Justice League finds out that the Totality IS the destructive force that Umbrax is drawn too. I hope the League is ready because Umbrax-ton Hicks contractions are on the way and who knows what the Totality will give birth to next!

Using the Google Machine, I typed in “Umbrax” and above is what popped up. Is this what you’re shooting for Snyder? Are we revisiting your Magic the Gathering days?

Anyway, John Stewart crash lands back to Earth to take out the Justice League with his new Ultraviolet Powers, which focus off the emotions of shame and hate. He quickly lays waste to almost the entire Justice League until Cyborg boom tubes in to save the day.

Justice League: Divide & Conquer

Meanwhile, Superman & J’onn are sent on their mission by the Justice League to check out what’s inside the Totality. After battling their way through into the epicenter, they find something that resembles the actual Souce Wall. J’onn psychically links to it only to discover that something much darker is looming behind the wall.

From this page on, Jorge Jimenez’ art is phenomenal. Just look at the top of the page above. Jimenez style resembles an actual animated movie at times and gives the reader hints of an anime-type feel. Better yet, the way Jimenez splits the panel with exploding lines of psychic energy is such a creative way to deviate from one panel to another. Snyder and Jimenez are genuinely making a fantastic team and finally getting this Justice League fan excited to read the series again.

Back to the story, the Justice League continues to split up sending Aquaman, Wonder Woman, and Flash to Nowhere, which is located deep in the ancient waters of the ocean. They are in search of the Still Force, which appears to be the opposing Force to the Speed Force. However, the three League members find White Martians that breakout and attack them under the water!

Meanwhile back inside Superman & J’onn, Lex Luthor shrunk down and entered Superman’s bloodstream along with Batman. Well, we find out that the Joker did the very same thing and had been hiding out in Hawkgirl’s ship this entire time.

Jimenez art on this page above is horrifyingly stunning! Just look at the detail surrounding the Joker. His saw looks rusty and drenched in blood. Heck, the scars on Jokers face look infected and bloody, not to mention how sinister he looks.

Jimenez makes Joker look freakishly scary in this picture as he stands behind a Hawkgirl whose helmet appears to be shining from the glow of her console. That’s nuts! The detail on this page with both characters is so jaw-dropping and impressive it could hang on your wall. Better yet, get Snyder & Jimenez to sign it first!

To the Moon Alice!

Snyder ends the issue with a clever explanation that doesn’t go unnoticed by thorough readers. I wanted to know since the last issue how J’onn could blow up the moon with no Earthly repercussions. It turns out, Geoforce has been holding the gravitational pull of the Earth together, as well as the ocean tides, since the moon’s been destroyed. Thank you, Snyder, for the detail. I really do appreciate it.

While the rest of the Justice League are off on their missions, John Stewart and Cyborg are on the moon trying to repair what they can. However, we end the issue with Sinestro stopping by to explain that the Still Force is what unleashed Umbrax, not him, and it’s coming for Earth.

Should you pick up this issue?

Yes! This is the best the Justice League has been in years. YEARS! Be warned: the issue is dense with material and can be heavy to read at times. But, that’s not a bad thing. It means Snyder is being thorough, creative, and changing the landscape of the DC Comic Universe.

Should you add this series to your pull?

Absolutely! One good issue may be luck. Two issues could be lucky. Three issues in a row is a trend. Be a trendsetter and hop on board now. If that doesn’t do it for you, take another look at Jorge Jimenez splash page again with the Joker. Fantastic and gorgeous art are on display every issue. Pick this up now!

Well, what did you guys think of JUSTICE LEAGUE #3? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu

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AVENGERS #4 Review: My Favorite Mistake

Dispatchdcu

AVENGERS #4 story by Jason Aaron, Paco Medina, and Ed McGuinness, inks by Juan Vlasco & Mark Morales, colors by David Curiel, and letters by Cory Petit infiltrates your comic shops this week as Aaron reshapes the very origin of humanity, Midgard, and the direction of the Marvel Universe.

WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD

AVENGERS #4 SPOILERS TOO!

Aaron, Medina, and McGuinness open the issue with Odinson and She-Hulk getting a trip down memory lane from Odin. Odin reminisces about his time battling with the First Celestial and even hints at a little “brown-chicken-brown-cow” with Phoenix.

Thor & She-HULK

Odinson begs his father to tell him how to beat the Final Host and is led to a secret door holding the Blood of Ymir. We aren’t told how this will help or what it will do BUT Odin believes it will either destroy everyone or save everyone.

For Thor to survive the cold of the First Ice Colossi, who is the Father of all Frost Giants, She-Hulk warms Thor with one huge radiated kiss. Imagine that Marvel Team Up!

Also, take a look at the art above during that gamma powered kiss. Juan Vlasco, Mark Morales, and David Curiel do a fantastic job on this splash page showing so much detail to the moment they share.

Notice the lightning crackle in the background AND the steam of radiation coming from She-Hulk’s eyes. Lastly, look at the immense size of Jennifer Walters man-handling the God of Thunder. This art team painted the reader a picture that many will never forget. I loved this page, as well as the art throughout the issue. Great job team!

Doctor Strange & Iron Man

Next, Aaron’s and his crew show us the Avengers team up with Doctor Strange and Iron Man at Olympia; the home of the Eternals. For those that don’t know, the Eternals claimed they were chosen by the Celestials to watch over humanity.

Watch it burn more like it!!

However, when Doctor Strange and Iron Man arrive, they find them all deceased. We aren’t told how or why BUT they are all dead. It looks like some type of mass culling. Just replace the Kool-Aid with lots of stabbing and death.

Captain America & Ghost Rider

Our next group of Avengers places Captain America at the North Pole captured by Loki and surrounded by the Final Host and Celestials. It turns out; our story didn’t begin millions of years ago. It starts 4 BILLION years ago with the death of the very first Celestial; the Alpha Celestial.

Now again, look at the art above with the decaying Alpha Celestial. Vlasco, Morales, and Curiel do a phenomenal job showing how large these Celestials are compared to our First Avenger in Loki’s glowing orb.

It’s hard to put into words how huge of a threat this is until you see the gargantuan size of these unearthly beings. I also love the intricate detail of the decomposition on the Alpha Celestial’s face. The page was a bit wordy, but the bottom panel really hit home for me.

Ghost Rider uses his car, with a suped-up Celestial & Demonic engine, to track down Captain America and wait in the wings until the time is right. Meanwhile, the remaining Avengers (Black Panther & Captain Marvel) are working in the Alpha Flight space station to figure out what this bug infestation is and how to exterminate them. It turns out; these giant cosmic locusts are also erupting from inside the Celestials that fell from the sky and are here to wipe out the Earth.

However, the part that stood out the most in the issue was that Loki clued Captain America into what I feel is the root of this entire opening arc. Loki screams at Cap calling the whole human race “a large cosmic mistake.” I understand that this means something but this part confused me.

How does the Alpha Celestial, the First Celestial, and the Final Host all connect? And, how does this make humans, as Sheryl Crow would say, “my favorite mistake”?

The Twist

Even though I left this issue feeling a bit confused, I still enjoyed the ride. I had a difficult time connecting all the pieces with the Celestials and how the human race was some type of cosmic mistake. But, the main confusion hit me, like a large mystical hammer, when I saw the cliffhanger.

When Odin fought the First Celestials 1 million years ago, everyone died but him. According to the freaking awesome splash page above, it looks like even the Phoenix died! So, I know we can’t get all the answers we want immediately but here are my big questions after seeing this final page:

1) Did Odin make a deal to save Midgard?

2) Otherwise, how did he stop the Celestials alone?

3) How are the bugs and Celestials connected?

4) Since we find out that these cosmic locusts are now erupting from inside the dead, fallen Celestials, are they working together or against them?

5) Which time is correct? Are the First Celestial and the Alpha Celestial the same?

6) If so, is Odin lying about the timeline? Odin says 1 million years ago he fought those Celestials, but Loki said 4 billion years ago. Are they different events? Are they the same events?

I could think of more, but my point is, I’m confused. Maybe someone else can make more sense of it than me, but I’m lost right now.

Should you pick up this issue?

YES….. BUT… I think it’s a bit confusing. You see; I sometimes need to have my handheld. If I’m left to overthink, I get lost and confused. But, the art was pretty good, and the story is creative and exciting. I genuinely think something big is about to happen. I just need some guidance more than anything.

Should you add this series to your pull?

I still think it’s worthy of being in your pull especially because I feel it’s definitely on the verge of changing the landscape of the Marvel Universe going forward. This means it will affect EVERY book. So, if you want to stay in the “know,” you’ll need this series.

Well, what did you guys think of AVENGERS #4? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu

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IMMORTAL HULK #2 Review: Radioactive Radioactive

Dispatchdcu

IMMORTAL HULK #2 written by Al Ewing, pencils by Joe Bennett, inks by Ruy Jose, colors by Paul Mounts, letters by Cory Petit & Travis Lanham arrives this week as Ewing mesmerizes the reader with another radioactively weird tale that gives our green behemoth a sense of direction.

Ewing has found a way to take elements from all aspects of the Incredible Hulks character throughout the years and morph them into his own version of the character in such a masterful way. He’s taken a destructive character known for smashing and made him so much more emotional and human. I’ve never felt sorrier for the HULK than I do now BUT I’ve also never felt more terror, sheer strength, and purpose. Let’s take a look!

WARNING: MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD

IMMORTAL HULK #2 SPOILERS TOO!

Ewing throws the reader into the story by showing us the struggles that Banner continues to deal with daily to fight off the HULK. Banner takes solace in the little things that he can control, which are mainly only his five simple senses. A simple meal or comfort of a bed is all he has to look forward to anymore. Otherwise, he’s fighting off the urge of releasing the HULK. But, everywhere he looks, he sees the Green Goliath. Everywhere he turns he feels the itch.

Beastly Justice

Ewing shows the reader that as much as Banner tries to hide, he can’t. The pull from the HULK is too strong. Starting in the last issue and continuing throughout this one, the reader is given the impression that Banner is trying his best to control the beast within BUT he helps keep him at bay by using him just enough for Justice.

Above, Ewing shows the reader Banner solving the mystery that’s been plaguing this town: radiation sickness. Every person who visits the grave of this boy eventually gets sick with radiation poisoning. Banner tries to call it in, but no one will listen until he gives his real name to get their attention.

Will there be any repercussions of this? Meaning, the world now knows he’s alive! So, who’s coming for him next?

Ewing sets the foundation of his run in this issue. We get the book’s direction and purpose for the HULK. It’s like taking your dog for a walk around the block or letting it loose in your yard for a bit. It’s still an animal, and it has urges. Your dog needs time to be an animal. It needs time to feel free. We see Banner deal with his inner beast the very same way.

Ewing is letting the reader know that Banner can keep the HULK at bay for only so long by stimulating his senses and staying calm. But what helps, is allowing HULK to come out to play. Banner’s logic is to channel the behemoth in the direction of Justice. If HULK is going to destroy something, why not be something evil or villainous? In the picture above, the “itch” from the HULK draws Banner to the source of this radiation sickness.

Incredible Art

As I’ve pointed out so far, Ewing’s writing has been “incredible.” But what makes a genuinely fantastic issue is a combination of writing and art. The story is remarkable as well as the art. Joe Bennett, Ruy Jose, and Paul Mounts are what set this book apart. Just look at the page above.

Bennett draws so much detail in his HULK making him appear more like a monster than a human. He looks more feared, more relentless, more destructive, and more uncontrollable than ever. Also, look at the fear in the Doctor’s face. When this page began, the radioactive Doctor felt like he was in control. But as the panels progress, Bennett shows the horrifying transformation into the green beast.

The colors above by Jose are perfect. The style is meant to be dark and terrifying yet the greens of the HULK pop off the page against the vibrant nuclear look of the Doctor. Jose’s detail of shadows in the cave should also not go unnoticed and should be commended. This page, down to the lettering by Cory Petit & Travis Lanham, helps paint a picture of fear, anger, and uncontrollable rage. Well done team!

Is HULK the curse?

The story continues with us finding out that the Doctor used Banner’s research to try to find a cure for cancer. He injected himself with the radioactive serum and noticed enhanced abilities. So, he gave it to his son who instantly died in a horrific way with radioactive blood oozing from his eyes. The Doctor laid his son to rest and the radioactivity surrounding his corpse continued to poison those who visited and offered up a slow death, like a walking ghost.

The story ends with HULK filling his urge for Justice, tearing off the Doctors arms, and burying him alive in the mountain where he was hiding. Meanwhile, the police took Banners advice a dug up the body of his son who was also glowing with bright green radiation and looked ALIVE.

Not only can Banner never die or never escape the beast within, but his research will continue to haunt him and the world until the end of time. He views HULK has a curse. But, I left this issue wondering if Banner is the real curse.

Should you pick up this issue?

100 times YES! Al Ewing is pulling off one shots that are interesting, thought provoking, insightful, and truly depict the HULK in as realistic a way as he could be. The art team is also drawing out of this world and taking this book up to another level.

Should you add this series to your pull?

1000 times YES! We are getting a true monster tale about a character we all love. As the reader, we feel compassion for Bruce but also see what feels like an addiction to the HULK. It’s a creative telling of this character that I feel we’ve all been waiting for. Add this book to your pull list and I have no doubt you’ll love it.

Well, what did you guys think of IMMORTAL HULK #2? Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @dispatchdcu

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Spoiler Review: Think You Know Everything About BATMAN #50? Guess Again

Manuel Gomez

Batman #50 by brings us to the much built up and highly anticipated wedding. But as has been the case with King’s run, there are many layers; there is a lot more to it than ‘do they or don’t they’.

Batman #50
Written by: Tom King
Art by: Mikel Janin & Various Artists
Colors by: June Chung
Letters by: Clayton Cowles

It’s the wedding you never thought you’d see! The Batrimony is real as Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle are set to tie the knot in a can’t-miss, extra-length milestone issue that will reshape Gotham City. All their friends (and a few enemies?) will be party to a comic book coupling for the ages.

Superstar scribe Tom King officiates the sure-to-be-offbeat nuptials, joined by an all-star lineup of guest classic Bat-artists doffing their hats to the lucky couple in a series of pre-wedding flashback scenes sure to set the romantic mood.

THIS REVIEW CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS!

Writing

Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room. The outcome of the wedding was spoiled over this past weekend and most everyone knows that the Bat and The Cat (as they have been affectionately calling each other since King’s run began) do not get married. However, we still have some fantastic emotional beats between the characters that will move longtime readers. And not just Selina and Bruce. The scenes between Alfred and Bruce are especially touching. And Kite-Man fans will love the opening pages!

King also uses two letters, the bride and groom writing to each other, as the narrative structure. This allows him to really get inside the heads and more importantly hearts of these two (and showcases the excellent lettering by Clayton Cowles).

ONE MORE TIME…SPOILERS!

But honestly, the fact that they don’t is not as important as the REASON they don’t; the devil in that detail is Bane, who has hovered like a specter since the early days of King’s magnificent run. King, in the already classic ‘I Am Bane’ storyline, elevated Bane into a threat both physical and mental. With the reveal that Bane manipulated events to have Selina turn into a runaway bride, it makes the villain an emotional threat as well. The man who broke Batman’s back has now also helped to break his heart. His final line of “He is what I made him. The Bat is broken” (you can see it below) is truly chilling and sets up a confrontation you can’t wait to see.

Art

If you are a Batman fan, then this issue is an artistic treat. The always great team of Mikel Janin and June Chung handle the present day parts with their usual flare for creative page composition, panel placement, layouts and dynamic colors. Janin also kills it with his facial expressions, which in this issue are a huge part of the storytelling.

The icing on the wedding cake here is the Who’s Who of artists that create beautiful one-page splash images showcasing key moments between Batman/Catwoman (both from their rich past and stuff from King’s run specifically.) It’s a true gamut of creator and style; Arthur Adams, Becky Cloonan, Tim Sale, Frank Miller, Amanda Connor, Andy Kubert, Tony S. Daniel, Paul Pope, Lee Weeks…and many more. Part of the fun is turning the page and finding a new artist.

Conclusion

If you have been reading Batman since King began writing it, you no doubt know that he has been running a ‘long con’ and we are merely at the halfway mark of his trick. Spoiled or not, this issue works. A good story is never really about what happens, but about why and how it happens. And on that front this chapter delivers.

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Review: GUNDAM BUILD DIVERS Episode 14

Anthony Wendel

The new episode of Gundam Build Divers decides to take a moment from the intense combat of the previous episode to do a bit of self reflection. Does it go on for too long though?

Summary

Riku must find out what to do about the 00 Diver after the previous battle.

Review

Riku looks for a inspiration for a new Gundam. This is basically the entire plot of this episode. He weighs the options on whether or not to just simply rebuild or start with an entirely new model while visiting people he has met since joining GBN. In the end he decides to split the difference by upgrading the model with a lot of parts from another suit (which appears to be mostly the Gundam Destiny on closer inspection).

It’s also worth pointing out, Ayame introduces herself to the team in the real world. This is annoying for a few reasons. First off, there is the fact the audience has to look past the “of course she lives nearby” aspect. It’s not like they have described the GBN as a worldwide network with people playing from all around the globe or anything. Second, there are no repercussions for her actions and she does not receive any punishment for what she did. She was a spy and intentionally put her friends at risk for her own selfish needs but the team has absolutely no problem with forgetting her because “friendship is magic” or something. Ugh.

This feels more like a episode of Gundam Build Fighters Try which was a lesser quality series than the original Gundam Build Fighters. Luckily there is likely a possibility of a new enemy coming out who plan to target Sarah. Which is good because something needs to be added into the formula to move forward.

This whole episode is one step away from being a recap episode just to introduce Riku’s new suit. There isn’t even any combat involved to show it off properly. Still it is too early to put the series in the same category as Gundam Build Fighters Try but this episode isn’t helping to define it as exceptional.

Gundam Build Divers is streaming on the GundamInfo Youtube Channel.

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Review: STEVEN UNIVERSE: What’s Your Problem

Anthony Wendel

The latest episode of Steven Universe on Cartoon Network finds a way to get personal and ask about a character’s problems.

Summary

When Ruby goes missing, Steven and Amethyst go look for her.

Review

Have you seen this gem? Goes by the name Ruby. She’s short, red, and apparently is going to be a cowboy in the future. It will be interesting to see how events lead to such a point.

After the big reveal of Single Pale Rose, someone in the cast finally does the most logical, natural, and human thing: Asking Steven how he feels about it all. This news shook up the entire fan community and the cast of the show itself when it was dropped but there has been little to no time for Steven to think about what it all means and how it affects him. This deep emotional discussion comes from the least likely sources or if you really think about it, the most appropriate one.

All three of the original crystal gems have helped to serve a purpose in Steven’s growth as a character. Garnet has served as the wise teacher, helping to give deep knowledge the boy has used to mature. Pearl is the uptight caretaker has done everything she could to make sure his needs were taken care of. Amethyst though has been something else entirely. As she works to cheer Steven up this episode it’s revealed she’s a bit angry about the news of Rose herself but instead of letting it out she chooses not to. She doesn’t want Steven to know how she feels because Amethyst knows he has enough to deal with and he needs to approach his problems first before taking on anyone else’s. Amethyst acts as a mature older sibling trying hard not to dump anymore on someone they care about before they have had time to properly comprehend a major life change. This demonstrates a very deep side to her character. As Steven says, “Your the most mature Crystal Gem.”

Thought it has no action to speak of this episode of Steven Universe still takes the time to actually ask how a character is doing. It’s realistic emotional moments like these which help to make the show so enjoyable.

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PREACHER Feature: “Sonsabitches” Sets Up Showdowns to Come

Joshua Versalle

July 3, 2018

Preacher Feature is a weekly look into the AMC show Preacher based on the comic book of the same name by Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon. In this column, Josh Versalle gives a breakdown of the events from the show, including how they relate to the comics, and speculates as to what’s going on and what might be coming up. This is to say that standard SPOILER rules apply.

Need to catch up on last week’s action? Look no further.

“It’d be real bad if you missed a payment”

“Sonsabitches” kicks off with a flashback to young Jesse Custer ( played by Will Kindrachuk), collector of souls. Marie had her grandson out selling spells (in this case to Hal, a perverted and ambitious school teacher, who wants to cover up an affair he had with a student). She has spells to fix everything, but the price is steep. When Hal falls behind on payments he gets his ass kicked, then gets hooked up to “the machine” mentioned last episode, and eventually ends up in the Tombs (more on that later). The machine in question is a soul extractor, like the one Jesse used in season two. It turns out swamp consommé isn’t the only thing Miss Marie uses to keep her skin looking so young.

Tulip is still struggling to recover from her death at the hands of the Grail’s Featherstone (Julie Ann Emery) and to remember what happened after that. She wants revenge on that “mom-haired lyin’ bitch” and nearly gets a chance when she finds Featherstone stalking her in Angelville’s backyard.

Tensions are escalating between Jesse and Cassidy. Cass wants to go after the Grail immediately, but Jesse is reluctant, since Starr still holds a piece of Jesse’s soul and with it Genesis, the source of Jesse’s power to control people with his words.

When Tulip and Jody capture Featherstone and Hoover, Hoover (with help from Jesse) escapes and Jesse lets Featherstone follow, so that they can deliver a message to Starr: Jesse wants to meet and he wants his soul back.

Jesse has Tulip and Cass start a battle with the Boyds (a rival clan of mystics) so that he can sneak away and parlay with Starr. The Boyds hate Jesse, but the reasons are unclear (murder or sex, depending on who you ask). The two sides exchange gunfire (and one cannon-launched goat) and Cassidy takes a bullet in the chest.

“That predictable spasm of juvenalia”

Starr pulls the old switcheroo, giving Jesse a placebo instead of his actual soul. Jesse finds this out when he tries to use the Word of God to command Starr to eat his own dick. When the Word fails, Starr leads Jesse to the driveway, where the real soul awaits in the hands of the Grail. Tulip, seeing the empty soul vial and remembering God’s command to “get those sonsabitches”, opens fire on the Grail, who retreat before the exchange can be made.

The episode closes on Jesse in the underground Tombs, a storage place for those unfortunate folks who owe their souls to Marie (including a godforsaken Hal, missing an eye and chained by the neck). Tulip clutches Starr’s business card, thinking that making a deal with the Grail may be the only way she can fix things.

“Last chance, hippie.”

One trademark of the show is the creative use of classic songs and “Sonsabitches” is no exception. Director Michael Slovis uses the hippie anthem “Get Together” by the Youngbloods to lend an ironic soundtrack to a violent clash between the Grail and a group of Krishnas. The result is a clever and visually impressive sequence, albeit one that seems only tangentially related to the overall plot.

One hesitates to use words like ‘tender’ in regards to a cold-blooded killer like Jody, but there are moments (the proud look he gives Jesse after beating up Hal, the shared interest in firearms with Tulip) that are touching. We all tend to latch onto anything that resembles family, and Jeremy Childs imbues the role with flashes of a certain humanity (in between horrific acts of violence, of course). Writer Sara Goodman utilizes these types of unstable relationships to powerful effect.

Whether trading punches or insults, it’s a joy to watch Tulip and Featherstone’s back-and-forth. Behind Tulip’s anger is the sting of betrayal and the self-reproach that comes from knowing that Featherstone wouldn’t have been in the position to hurt her so badly if she hadn’t let her get close enough.

Likewise, Colin Cunningham brings a charming quality to TC in the episode and watching him and Cassidy bonding (“You like drugs?”) is a lot of fun, assuming you can get past the vile nature of TC’s dreams.

From Panels to Screen:

While most of the episode is an original story, longtime fans will probably recognize the wound Starr suffers in Tulip’s attack as one of a series of disfiguring and humiliating injuries he suffers in the comics. Originally a knife wound inflicted by Jesse, it bears a certain phallic resemblance.

The L’Angelles, the Boyds, Cassidy, or the Grail? Who will strike Jesse first? Let us know in the comments.

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Review: THE FIRST PURGE Purports To Have Political Bite But Lacks Teeth

Robert Yaniz Jr.

The nation is completely divided. Protests are everywhere, and accusations of shady political lobbying are in the air. No, we’re not describing a spot on your 24-hour news network of choice. But it’s specifically this kind of ripped-from-the-headlines aesthetic that The First Purge is clearly going for. After all, its marketing (see the above image) is far from subtle. Sadly, the film — which, despite its title, is the fourth entry in the franchise — only offers the appearance of relevance in place of any real social or political commentary.

A prequel to the previous films, The First Purge chronicles the United States’ first foray into an annual night of lawlessness, wherein all crime (including murder) is legal for 12 hours. This “societal catharsis,” its creators call it, is all set to take place on Staten Island, NY, and the New Founding Fathers of America — a new third political party that has recently assumed power — has a lot riding on its success. Naturally, violence ensues, and we find ourselves following a group of local residents grappling with the decision to participate in the NFFA’s social experiment or simply try to live out the night.

Of course, The Purge franchise has always worn its politics on its sleeve (perhaps never as blatantly as in 2016’s The Purge: Election Year). But the prospect of a full-on origin story for the Purge should have taken that impulse to a whole new extreme. The fact that the film’s cast is populated almost exclusively with people of color — aside from the villains, natch — opens up the possibility that The First Purge might weave something meaningful out of the racist imagery it invokes and even the uber-violence it so willingly espouses. No such luck, we’re afraid. The all-too-real resonance of the film’s subtext is perhaps never fully realized in part because it sits right there on the surface.

And The First Purge just lets it sit there for all to see, never bothering to dig any deeper into it. Instead, we get a collection of cliches posing as characters. Oh, and a particularly obnoxious “villain” in Rotimi Paul’s Skeletor (sadly, not the Masters of the Universe character). At least Y’lan Noel (Insecure) gets to be a bit of an action hero. Especially in a film with such uneven performances, Noel shines as the local drug kingpin who winds up defending his neighborhood. Likewise, Lex Scott Davis (SuperFly) does a capable job as his ex, an anti-Purge activist who ends up trapped on the island with her younger brother (Joivan Wade). However, the biggest travesty is how the film wastes Oscar winner Marisa Tomei in a nothing role that feels like little more than busywork until she can return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

With its last two installments (especially The Purge: Anarchy), the series seemed to be finding its footing as a pitch-black action-horror thrill ride. Frank Grillo (Captain America: The Winter Soldier) proved to be the perfect leading man for the franchise, elevating it to a cult status that felt about right for this kind of sensationalized storytelling. So going the prequel route might have never been a wise move to begin with, especially since The First Purge breezes past all the most promising elements that a prequel could have brought. In lieu of that, director Gerard McMurry delivers just another Purge movie. Notably, The First Purge is the first entry not directed by series creator James DeMonaco, though he does retain sole screenwriting credit.

Somehow, The First Purge is simultaneously too much and not enough. So much of the film’s focus is on relishing the paranoia and sporadic violence of it all, but without characters we can care about or some compelling message underlining it, the film just feels exploitative. Alternatively, if The First Purge had leaned into the grimy B-movie appeal, it might have at least offered some genuine thrills or worked on a can’t-believe-I-just-saw-that level. Instead, The First Purge feels like a crime against itself, a project that betrays its own immense potential. The opportunity to explore the fever pitch that led the nation to such a drastic measure as implementing the Purge should have uncovered at least a modicum of profundity.

Franchise loyalists may still get the bare minimum amount of enjoyment out of this installment, but don’t expect a lick of substance or originality here. The First Purge does actually have something positive to say about human nature in the end (kinda?), but its ultimate takeaway boils down to the fact that politicians aren’t to be trusted. Seriously. With a concept as rich as this franchise has in a time as polarizing as this one, that’s the greatest insight The First Purge can muster. If audiences haven’t learned by now that modern politics is indeed the real horror show, they probably never will.

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“It’d be real bad if you missed a payment”

“That predictable spasm of juvenalia”

“Last chance, hippie.”

From Panels to Screen:

SPOILERS LIE AHEAD