Welcome back, Legionnaires, for another startling Comics Guide! This one is chock-full of not only a lot of new and interesting books (see "The Captain's Picks"), but an unusually large number of previews -- especially Image, Marvel and Valiant. This is offset, weirdly, by a dearth of the usually huge manga offerings. I have no explanations, just observations, for this phenomenon. Anyway, let's get started:
THE CAPTAIN'S PICKS
7 HOLES FOR AIR GN
Publisher: ARCANA STUDIO
Written by John McLaughlin
Art/Cover by Mick Reinman
$19.95
Bill Paxton & Arcana Comics presents 7 Holes for Air. Bob Rourke is the kind of man they don't make anymore. He's a tough son of a bitch: A fifty-year-old steelworker who smokes, drinks, and never complains, even when he's in pain. After a persistent headache sends him to a doctor for the first time in his life, Bob learns he's facing the end. With disease ravaging his body, Bob soldiers on at home, at work and in an alternate Spaghetti Western reality in which his real-life antagonists become actual villains. Now Bob will stare down death the only way he knows how -- with grit and determination -- as he struggles against the ghosts of his past and the desire to leave something behind for his wife and daughter.
I honestly don't know if this will be any good, since I haven't seen it. But Magic 8-Ball says "All signs point to yes."
The back story, according to a bajillion online interviews, is this: John McLaughlin is a screenwriter, who wrote 7 Holes for Air with Bill Paxton in mind for the role of Bob Rourke. You know who Bill Paxton is; he's the Colonial Marine who yelled "Game over, man!" in Aliens, the star of Big Love and Storm Chasers, etc. Anyway, McLaughlin sent the screenplay to Paxton, but the actor begged off, saying he had too many other commitments. But he loved the story, and thought it deserved wide exposure, and has since championed its conversion into a graphic novel.
The story is actually two stories, one as described above and the other a parallel story set in the late 1800s. What the other story is, I don't know -- true parallel? Bob's fantasy? -- but reviews have been good.
THE BUNKER
Publisher: ONI PRESS INC.
Written by Joshua Hale Fialkov
Art/Cover by Joe Infurnari
$3.99
THE SMASH HIT DIGITAL COMIC COMES TO PRINT WITH A DOUBLE-SIZED DEBUT ISSUE!
When five friends go to bury a time capsule before going their separate ways, they find a mysterious bunker stamped with their names and containing artifacts from a time that has yet to come. Will their discovery save the world or doom it? From Joshua Hale Fialkov (I, VAMPIRE; ULTIMATES) and Joe Infurnari (MARATHON) comes a new ongoing series that proves outrunning your future is no easier than escaping your past.
Joshua Hale Fialkov and Joe Infurnari’s creator-owned series burned up the ComiXology charts as one of the most successful titles of their fledgling Submit program earlier this year. Pairing an epic sci-fi scope with the grounding of a tight, personal drama, THE BUNKER offered fans a fresh, new perspective and an instantly engrossing plot from two comics veterans.
“This book has been a passion project for Joe and I from the start, and we took the decision of a publishing partner extremely seriously,” says writer Joshua Hale Fialkov, best known for his Eisner-nominated graphic novel Tumor as well as work on The Ultimates, and I, Vampire. “We had such a great experience doing it on our own, with ComiXology’s support, that we wanted to continue that journey. In Oni Press, we’ve found a group of the hardest working folk in comics, who want our vision delivered to as big an audience as possible. We could not be happier.”
THE BUNKER #1 will collect the first five chapters of Fialkov and Infurnari’s digital series, reformatted and remastered for a traditional comic book size and clocking in at 48 pages for $3.99.
After this perfect introductory issue, THE BUNKER’s twisting, mysterious tale will continue on as an ongoing series. In addition to portions of the existing pages being updated and redrawn to share new secrets of the Bunker, Infurnari is also enhancing the color palette to the previously single toned pages.
"THE BUNKER is the kind of smart, character-driven genre fiction we love,” said Oni Press’ Editor in Chief James Lucas Jones. “From the moment our Publisher Joe Nozemack read the first issue, he knew it was something we needed to publish. We're excited to be embarking on the next phase of THE BUNKER with Josh & Joe and can't wait for readers in both the print and digital markets to see what they have planned."
Simply put, THE BUNKER is one of the most engrossing and original series to hit comics in recent memory, and Oni Press is proud to have it join the ranks of their rich library of creator-owned comics.
I first encountered Fialkov's writing in an indie GN called Tumor, and was pretty impressed. I haven't read anything by Fialkov since that really disappointed me, and I don't expect The Bunker to be any different. Further, it's already got a track record as an online comic, where the reception -- as the PR says above -- was enthusiastic.
CITY: MIND IN THE MACHINE #1 (of 4)
Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
Written by Eric Garcia
Art by Javier Fernandez
Cover by Tommy Lee Edwards
Variant cover by Matthew Waite
32 pages • $3.99
The second smash release from David Wohl’s Darby Pop imprint!
From the minds of writer Eric Garcia (Matchstick Men) and artist Javier Fernandez, Darby Pop Publishing’s City: The Mind in the Machine will make its debut this February!
"Practically every day in the news there's a story about a new interface between man and machine. We've gone from punch-cards to keyboards to touchscreens in a matter of decades, and direct brain-system connections are already being explored," said writer Eric Garcia. "Between that and the ubiquity of wireless networking, we're living in uncharted territory -- which is why I've been so excited to tell the story of CITY: MIND IN THE MACHINE. It's been a thrill working with Javier and Darby Pop to explore these concepts and bring this world to life."
Surveillance is everywhere, like it or not, and Ben Fischer has helped to build the world’s most powerful surveillance system, Golden Shield. By utilizing every camera, cell phone and computer in San Francisco, Golden Shield was designed to help battle the city’s crime. But what Ben Fischer quickly finds out is that something that powerful never comes without a price and that his creation cannot properly function without a human brain to operate it.
This action-packed series takes a look at what it means to meld man and machine as well as explores the roles security and technology play in modern society.
Eric Garcia is a screenwriter and novelist, author of Anonymous Rex, Casual Rex, Hot & Sweaty Rex, Cassandra French’s Finishing School For Boys, The Repossession Mambo and Matchstick Men, which was made into a film starring Nicolas Cage and Sam Rockwell and directed by Ridley Scott. His novels have been published in 22 countries and translated into 14 languages.
Pretty good credentials. But good novelists don't always make good comic-book writers -- it's a different skill. So I dunno if this book will really be any good. But it's worth checking out at your LCS if you get a chance.
THE MERCENARY SEA #1
Publisher: IMAGE COMICS
Written by KEL SYMONS
Art/Cover by MATHEW REYNOLDS
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $2.99
"NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT"
Action and adventure await aboard The Venture! Set in 1938, Kel Symons (I LOVE TROUBLE) and Mathew Reynolds' (Marlow) new series THE MERCENARY SEA stars ex-bootlegger Captain Jack Harper and his crew of expats, mercenaries and treasure hunters. They sail the South Seas at an uneasy time for the world, right when Japan has invaded China and War in Europe looks unavoidable.
The Venture’s crew is a unique group of characters all with checkered pasts. “There's definitely some conflict — perhaps mostly between Jack and Wulf, the venerable German sub captain who serves as his first officer,” said Symons. “But they're more or less a tight extended family. They're not pirates or ruffians — they're mercenaries, obviously out for a paycheck, but they have a strong moral compass guiding them.”
Inspiration for THE MERCENARY SEA came from various pop culture influences that Symons and Reynolds felt passionately about. “One of our guideposts for THE MERCENARY SEA was that we wanted to do a comic that was essentially like a lost Howard Hawks movie. A lot of Hawks' films deal with desperate men in far-flung places, away from any support or help, where they're forced to rely on themselves or fail: Only Angels Have Wings, The Thing from Another World, Rio Bravo, To Have and Have Not,” said Symons. “Howard Hawks was our spirit animal on this one.”
Battling pirates, headhunters, spies, and soldiers, the crew is always one step away from the greatest score of their lives. But it might not be that way for long ...
At last! The pirate comics "predicted" by Watchmen has come to pass!
OK, it actually sounds more like an update of a1920s soldier-of-fortune adventure strip like Captain Easy, not pirates. Which, if done well, could be a lot of fun. Done poorly it will -- heh -- sink within a year.
MODERN MASTERS VOL 29: CLIFF CHIANG TP
Publisher: TWOMORROWS PUBLISHING
$15.95
The artist of DC's breakout hit Wonder Woman shares stories about his work, career and path to comics stardom.
As the artist of DC's New 52 Wonder Woman, Cliff Chiang's star has never shone brighter. His bold, graphic style has a classic feel with a modern sensibility, and it's no wonder he's become one of the industry's top illustrators. Now comics journalist Chris Arrant and editor Eric Nolen-Weathington reveal just how Chiang went from promising assistant editor to in-demand freelance artist in Modern Masters: Cliff Chiang.
Upon first seeing Chiang's work, Eisner Award-winning comics creator Paul Pope felt "the work was distinct and had an aura of European cartooning, clean-lined and crisp, yet still playing within the arena of American contemporary comics. The brush was his evident weapon of choice, the work breathed. One could see the thumbprint of Vittorio Giardino, a little Crepax, Steranko and even Javier Pulido in Cliff’s work. Some Mazzucchelli. There was a grace and urgency coming to the front, his stuff stood out, and happily it still does." Pope was so impressed with Chiang's comics that he penned the introduction to the new Modern Masters book.
Modern Masters: Cliff Chiang features a career-spanning interview and loads of both iconic and rarely seen artwork from Cliff's personal files. In addition to talking about his celebrated runs on Wonder Woman, Green Arrow/Black Canary and Detective Comics, Cliff also pulls back the curtain on never-before-seen projects including an Aquaman graphic novel and a pulp Batman series. There's also an in-depth look into the artist's work process, and an extensive gallery of commissioned pieces, many in full-color.
"I'm fascinated by the different creative and professional paths an artist can take, and as an avid fan of the Modern Masters series it's really an honor to be included," Chiang said. "With hours of in-depth interviews exploring the evolution of my career and artistic process and many pieces of unseen and unpublished art, it's my hope this volume is as interesting to read as it was to put together."
Modern Masters: Cliff Chiang will arrive in comic book stores and booksellers on February 5, 2014, and is available for pre-order now at www.twomorrows.com. The 120-page trade paperback retails for $15.95, and a digital edition is also available from the publisher's website and App Store app.
A free preview can be found at this link:
http://twomorrows.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products...
I'm actually not terribly interested in books about, or interviews with, artists; I'd rather just see the work. But I agree 100 percent with what Paul Pope said above about Chiang's work (better than I could say it), and he deserves the recognition this book provides.
THE ROYALS: MASTERS OF WAR #1
Publisher: DC COMICS
Written by ROB WILLIAMS
Art by SIMON COLEBY
Cover by SIMON COLEBY
1:13 Variant cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
32 pg, FC, 1 of 6, $2.99 US • MATURE READERS
This issue will ship with two covers.
The year is 1940. As the War heats up and the Blitz destroys London and kills thousands, the Royal Family looks on. But in this reality, the Royalty of the day have special abilities and the purer the bloodline, the greater those abilities are—and history is about to be transformed when England’s Prince Henry decides to intervene.
“Imagine Downton Abbey crossed with the opening sequence of Saving Private Ryan and you're getting somewhere close to what THE ROYALS: MASTERS OF WAR offers,” says Williams. While Colby describes it as “an everyday tale of everyday squabbles, amongst everyday folk. Except the everyday folk are super-powered royalty, and their squabbles take place against the backdrop of the biggest conflict the world has ever seen.”
Writer Rob Williams (Judge Dredd: Trifecta, Low Life, ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN and Daken) and artist Simon Coleby (The Authority, Judge Dredd: Year One and Trifecta) team up to bring you this epic of World War proportions. History will be transformed in a way you’ve never seen before.
For centuries, royalty has cowed their subjects by ascribing special attributes to royal blood -- which, of course, is horse patootie. There's nothing special about royal blood, unless it's inbred enough to produce defects like hemophilia. But until the modern era the lie was widely believed, resulting in centuries of royalty living the high life while commoners worked themselves into an early grave. As you can see, I'm not a big fan of -- in the words of Monty Python -- "hanging on to outdated dogma which perpetuates an aristocracy." (Also, strange women lying in ponds distributing swords is no basis for a system of government. Just so you know.)
But, OK, we're just talking comic books here, so I'll grudgingly set my egalitarianism aside. DC is pretty high on this book, so it's probably worth a look.
SHE-HULK #1
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
Written by CHARLES SOULE
Art by JAVIER PULIDO
Cover by KEVIN WADA
Blank Cover Also Available
Variant Cover by Milo Manara
Variant Cover by Ryan Stegman
Variant Cover by SIYA OYUM
Young Variant by Skottie Young
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99
Lawyer. Avenger. Hero. Friend. Jennifer Walters has been called many things – but to most, she’s known only as the She-Hulk! Savior of the world on more than one occasion, Jennifer Walters is embarking on a brand new, and no less dangerous mission – opening a new law practice!
She-Hulk makes her All-New Marvel NOW! debut in a bombastic new series from critically acclaimed creative team of Charles Soule & Javier Pulido!
“We’re thrilled to be able to launch She-Hulk’s new book with Charles and Javier!” said series editor Jeanine Schaefer. “Of course, Charles being a practicing lawyer himself will definitely lend that extra authenticity to her day to day, but both of these guys are the best when they’re riding that line between street level and super hero, a line She-Hulk lives on."
“One of the big themes I'm going to play with is how in the world Jennifer is supposed to do everything she's supposed to do,” said Charles Soule, in an interview with Marvel.com. “We don't want things to be easy for our heroes—we want to see them overcome great difficulties. She-Hulk will battle one of the greatest villains of all: scheduling.”
“But She-Hulk will fight her share of giant robots and irradiated monsters, I promise,” he continued.
“Charles gets the humanity of this character – this book doesn’t just have superhero action, it has an emotional core that makes that action all the more meaningful,” says Associate Editor Tom Brennan. “And with Javier Pulido, we have a master storyteller who brings so much to the story and gives this series a texture and a pop of energy that defines All New Marvel NOW!”
“She-Hulk has always been a title where weird, cool things can happen,” said Soule in an interview with USA Today. ‘She is a strong — very strong — female character, and comics absolutely cannot have enough of those.”
“[Charles & Javier] can both bring the emotional and literal gut-punches in a way no one else can, all set-against the larger than life world of the Marvel U that still sort of looks like the world we live in ourselves,” adds Schaefer.
With a brand new practice, new paralegal and a mounting number of personal enemies both super-powered and not, She-Hulk may have bitten off a bit more than she can chew … but hey, she just calls that Tuesday. Look for Jennifer’s All-New Marvel NOW! debut!
Got my fingers crossed that this will be more like the Dan Slott She-Hulk (see below) than any other incarnations.
SHE-HULK BY DAN SLOTT: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION VOL. 1 TPB
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
Written by DAN SLOTT
Penciled by JUAN BOBILLO, PAUL PELLETIER, SCOTT KOLINS & MORE
Cover by ADI GRANOV
416 PGS./Rated T+ …$34.99
Everyone’s favorite Jade Giantess, She-Hulk, has returned for tons of fun — both on and off the field of battle! As a superhuman lawyer, She-Hulk has tried some of the strangest cases on Earth. But now, Shulkie is heading into deep space to practice Universal Law! And upon her return, the emerald enchantress matches muscles with Hercules — but it’s going to take brains, not brawn, to get the Prince of Power out of some Herculean legal problems. Plus: No one hates She-Hulk more than Titania! What makes her one of the deadliest threats in the universe? And how is Hawkeye’s fate tied to She-Hulk’s latest case? Dan Slott’s fan-favorite run is collected in two massive volumes, so join She-Hulk as she deals with the bizarre legal problems of the Marvel Universe! Collecting SHE-HULK (2004) #1-12 and SHE-HULK (2005) #1-5.
It was during Slott's tenure that I first enjoyed She-Hulk, and that's probably not an accident. Before Slott, I thought of her as a redundant character with a dumb name, created -- and appearing at least annually -- for no other reason than to secure a trademark. Even efforts on various She-Hulk titles by the likes of John Byrne and Peter David failed to make me a fan. But Slott's humor and insight got me over the hump; his She-Hulk was funny but not silly, and for the first time Jennifer Walters had a consistent personality -- or maybe just one I liked. Whether or not you're going to try the new series, I heartily recommend the Best of She-Hulk Past, right here in this TPB.
ARCHIE COMICS
ARCHIE 1000 PAGE COMICS-PALOOZA (TPB)
Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Fernando Ruiz
$14.99 U.S. / $15.99 CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16” Trade Paperback, 1000 pp
Archie 1000 Page Comics-Palooza is the latest volume of our biggest-ever collections, featuring over 100 full-color stories in a format similar to the hugely popular Archie Digest series at an amazing price! Follow America’s favorite red–head as he navigates the pressures of the American teenager in the awkward, charming and hilarious way you’ve come to know and love. Features the same mix of wild humor, awkward charm and genuine relatability that has kept Archie and the gang relevant for kids and adults alike for over 70 years. It’s 1000 pages of Archie fun at one low price!
I've never seen one of these -- I think this is the third so far -- but it sounds like quite a deal. The usual format for this kind of monster book is usually 400 or 500 pages in black and white. I guess -- somehow -- being in digest size make color possible, and also doubles the page count! I don't know how or why this works, but it evidently does, and it's quite a bargain.
ARCHIE’S FUNHOUSE DOUBLE DIGEST #2
Script: Mike Pellowski
Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowski, Dan Nakrosis, and Jason Jensen
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
160-page, full color comic, $3.99 U.S.
Archie’s known for being an accident-prone, girl-crazy romantic, but here’s something about Archie we’ll bet you couldn’t guess… he’s also a mind-reader! Dilton’s working on the ultimate science fair experiment and it’s up to Archie to be his dutiful guinea pig. But can Archie’s newfound ESP help out or only cause him more grief? If you’re not a psychic, you’ll need to find out by reading “Mind Games,” the crazy first story to this FUN NEW double digest series!
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #257
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman, and Steve Downer
32-page, full color comic, $2.99 U.S.
Wrap-Around "FREEDOM FIGHTERS" Cover: Rafa knight
"Station Square Rescue" Variant cover: Lamar Wells, Terry Austin, John Workman and Matt Herms
The "COUNTDOWN" is over, the "CHAOS" has just begun! "Damage Control": The shattered world is causing chaos everywhere, and Station Square is about to implode! Sonic and the Freedom Fighters must spring into action to save the day, unless someone beats them to the punch. Cue: Dr. Eggman. Will the evil doctor be the one to save the world? Or will his newfound power give him ultimate control? If the ending to issue 256 left you breathless, you cannot miss the next chapter in the ALL-NEW saga of Sonic's comic adventures! Featuring a special wrap-around cover by Rafa Knight and Variant art from Lamar Wells!
DARK HORSE
DH keeps putting out fewer and fewer comics, and Dynamite keeps putting out more and more. If this trend continues, the #5 and #6 publishers will switch places pretty soon.
ABE SAPIEN #10
Mignola!
Written by Mike Mignola, Scott Allie
Art/Cover by Max Fiumara
Colored by Dave Stewart
FC, 32 pages, $3.50
Ongoing
Abe saved a small Arizona town from one Lovecraftian menace, but a new killer threatens to devour the last survivors!
• Art by Max Fiumara (B.P.R.D.: 1948)!
“You gotta love it.” — Adventures in Poor Taste
“A collector’s item for any Mignolaverse fan.” — Comic Bastards
ALABASTER: PALE HORSE TP
CAITLÍN R. KIERNAN’S DARK FANTASY EPIC!
Written/Drawn by Caitlín R. Kiernan
Cover by Greg Ruth
B&W, 248 pages, $14.99
TP, 8" x 5 1/4"
An albino girl wanders the sun-scorched back roads of a south Georgia summer, following the bidding of an angel or perhaps only voices in her head, searching out and slaying ancient monsters who have hidden themselves away in the lonely places of the world.
• Caitlín R. Kiernan is an International Horror Guild Award–winning author!
• A complete collection of the Alabaster prose short stories.
“Caitlín R. Kiernan is the poet and the bard of the wasted and the lost.” — Neil Gaiman
CLOWN FATALE #4 (of 4)
Written by Victor Gischler
Art by Maurizio Rosenzweig
Colored by Moreno Dinisio
Cover by Tim Seeley
FC, 32 pages, $3.99
Miniseries
With two clowns left in her crew, Chloe finds herself in the clutches of the knife-wielding Sasha, the Russian bombshell. Meanwhile, Billy has lured Aya into his lair ... i.e., his shabby trailer. With the circus on fire, what end will come to the remaining clowns fatales?
• Angel & Faith writer Victor Gischler!
• Cover by Tim Seeley (Hack/Slash, Revival).
“Gischler ... comes up with plenty of laughs ... imbedded within a small war’s worth of bullets and blood.” — Publishers Weekly
CREEPY COMICS #15
Written by Alex de Campi, Doug Moench
Art by Henrik S. Jonsson, Bruce Timm
Cover by J. G. Jones
B&W, 40 pages, $3.99
Here comes Uncle Creepy to tingle your spine with all-new tales of terror! Alex de Campi (Grindhouse) and Henrik S. Jonsson (Detective Comics) present a lovers’ quarrel full of mischief, while Doug Moench (Batman) unleashes ancient alarm from an Aztec tomb!
• Frontispiece by Bruce Timm (Batman: The Animated Series)!
• Cover by J. G. Jones (Final Crisis)!
I'm confused: Papercutz also puts out a Creepy comic book. That one is played for gross-out laughs and aimed at adolescent boys, I think, but I don't know anything about the DH version. Is anyone reading it? What can you tell me?
LOBSTER JOHNSON VOLUME 3: SATAN SMELLS A RAT TP
From the pages of Hellboy!
Written by Mike Mignola, John Arcudi
Cover by Mike Mignola
Art by Kevin Nowlan, Sebastián Fiumara, Wilfredo Torres, Tonci Zonjic, Joe Querio,
Colored by Dave Stewart
FC, 144 pages, $18.99
TP, 7’’ x 10’’
Hellboy’s favorite gun-blazing vigilante takes justice to the skies aboard a Nazi-filled zeppelin and to the gritty alleyways of Chinatown against an army of monkeys. Collects The Prayer of Neferu, Caput Mortuum, Satan Smells a Rat, A Scent of Lotus #1–#2, and “Tony Masso’s Finest Hour” from Dark Horse Presents #9.
• Featuring art by Tonci Zonjic, Kevin Nowlan, Sebastián Fiumara, and more.
“If you have never before read a Lobster Johnson story, this is an awesome place to become acquainted with this character.” – Comic Vine
I love Lobster Johnson, but I'm holding out for an upscale collection. So everyone will read this before I do. Curses!
STAR WARS #14
VADER ON A MISSION OF VENGEANCE!
Written by Brian Wood
Penciled by Facundo Percio
Inked by Dan Parsons
Colored by Gabe Eltaeb
Cover by Sean Cooke
FC, 32 pages, $2.99
Ben Kenobi haunts Darth Vader’s dreams, even as the name Skywalker occupies his waking thoughts. The Rebel victory over his former flagship has exposed spies and incompetence within the Empire, and Vader has decided an off-the-record mission of vengeance is needed to clear his head — and restore his reputation!
• Artist Facundo Percio from Warren Ellis’s Anna Mercury!
“If you haven’t read this series yet, please do so.” — Comic Booked
“A great read and has been each and every issue.” — Comic List
X #10
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Eric Nguyem
Cover by Dave Wilkins
$2.99
Carmine Tango, the ruthless supercriminal obsessed with astrology, has returned to Arcadia! When his army stages a citywide blackout and begins looting the city, X takes to the streets ... but as Leigh soon discovers, X and Tango have a history-this fight is personal!
A new look into X's shadowy origin!
"I'm really sold on this sick and twisted world of X." -- Comic Bastards
Of all the "Comics Greatest World" comics that Dark Horse put out years ago, X was probably the most interesting. (I actually liked Ghost better, but that was because of the Adam Hughes art, not the quality of the story.) So I'm glad to see it make a comeback.
DC COMICS
ASTRO CITY #9
Written by KURT BUSIEK
Art by BRENT ANDERSON
Cover by ALEX ROSS
32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
The puppet master behind the attacks on Winged Victory is revealed — though it may be too late for even Samaritan and the Confessor’s aid to be any use. But Winged Victory finds an unexpected ally, one who gives her a new perspective on the crisis. And then there’s Joey!BATGIRL #28
Written by GAIL SIMONE
Art by FERNANDO PASARIN and JONATHAN GLAPION
Cover by ALEX GARNER
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by J.G. JONES
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
It’s a hazardous reunion between Batgirl and the former Court of Owls assassin Strix as they face off against the lethal new threat known as Silver — the man who knows the secret of Gotham City’s conspiracy of bats!
BATMAN #28
Written by SCOTT SNYDER
Art by GREG CAPULLO and DANNY MIKI
Cover by GREG CAPULLO
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by HOWARD CHAYKIN
32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
This issue will ship with three covers.
ZERO YEAR: DARK CITY reaches its conclusion! The final chapter of Zero Year is almost upon us, and we’ve saved the best for last! What corners of Batman’s past will be revealed? And how will they impact his very near future? Find out here!
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
Looks like they've finally promoted The Riddler to the big leagues.
BATMAN: DARK VICTORY TP NEW EDITION
Written by JEPH LOEB
Art and cover by TIM SALE
400 pg, FC, $24.99 US
In this new edition of the sequel to BATMAN: THE LONG HALLOWEEN, Gotham City is overrun by freaks like Poison Ivy, Mr. Freeze and The Joker. To save his city, The Dark Knight investigates the seeming return of the serial killer called Holiday — and must learn who is committing crimes in his name! Collecting issues #0-13 of the hit series!
BATMAN: LI’L GOTHAM #11
Written by DEREK FRIDOLFS and DUSTIN NGUYEN
Art and cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED E • DIGITAL FIRST
On All Souls Day, Bruce Wayne takes his son Damian to mom’s house for a supervised visit — until an engine explosion makes their jet crash! But that’s hardly the worst thing fate tries to throw at them! And when Gotham “falls back” for Daylight Savings Time, the Clock King plots to control time … and the world!
Wait ... in Li'l Gotham Bruce and Talia share custody of Damian? How does that work, exactly?
COFFIN HILL #5
Written by CAITLIN KITTREDGE
Art by INAKI MIRANDA
Cover by DAVE JOHNSON
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • MATURE READERS
In the penultimate issue of the first storyline, we learn the nasty truth about the darkness that Eve Coffin unleashed in her hometown so long ago. But will Eve able to make the ultimate sacrifice to save what few friends she has left?
I'm not quite sure how this can be an ongoing book, once the seminal event that launched the story is addressed. Seems to me once the main characters settle that problem, then they will cease to be interesting -- since it was only the original tragedy that made them interesting in the first place.
But I don't know anything about Caitlin Kittredge, so maybe she can surprise me. I hope so.
CONSTANTINE #11
Written by RAY FAWKES
Art by ACO
Cover by HOWARD PORTER
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
“FOREVER EVIL: BLIGHT” continues! Project Thaumaton revealed! The Crime Syndicate has twisted the world’s greatest mystics into something horrible – is this the beginning of the end? Continues in this month’s TRINITY OF SIN: PANDORA #8!
I might have mentioned this somewhere else, but in the New 52 Constantine, the lead character is occasionally a dead ringer for actor Jonathan Rhys-Meyers. He seems to be popular, which I find inexplicable, having watched his lack of range and minimal acting skills in The Tudors.
CONSTANTINE VOL. 1: THE SPARK AND THE FLAME TP
Written by JEFF LEMIRE and RAY FAWKES
Art by RENATO GUEDES, FABIANO NEVES and SZYMON KUDRANSKI
Cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
144 pg, FC, $14.99 US
This first CONSTANTINE collection includes issues #1-6 of The New 52 series, including a quest to find the last piece of a powerful mystic artifact and Constantine’s run-in with the power of Shazam!
I have read a preview copy of this, but can't -- according to the rules -- review it until the book ships. But I will say, hopefully without repercussion, that I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. And, to my further surprise, I recommend it.
THE FLASH VOL. 3: GORILLA WARFARE HC
Written by FRANCIS MANAPUL and BRIAN BUCCELLATO
Art by FRANCIS MANAPUL, MARCUS TO, RYAN WINN and MARCIO TAKARA
Cover by FRANCIS MANAPUL
176 pg, FC, $24.99 US
When Grodd and his gorilla army descend on Central City, The Flash will have to contend with a threat unlike any he’s faced before: murderous, ruthless and without principle. With mammoth strength and mind-control powers, Grodd will not stop until he conquers the city with its heroes blood on his hands. Knowing he cannot defeat this new foe alone, The Flash will need the help of his former enemies, the Rogues, if he wants to keep himself and Central City alive. This new hardcover collects THE FLASH #13-19.
I'm glad to see a new mythology for Gorilla City, as the old one was kinda played out. It's the same characters, just re-arranged to where Solovar and Grodd have a different history and relationship, and Gorilla City itself has a different governing system.
If this were a weaker week, this would likely be in my Captain's Picks.
FOREVER EVIL: ROGUES REBELLION #5
Written by BRIAN BUCCELLATO
Art by SCOTT HEPBURN
Cover by DECLAN SHALVEY
1:25 B&W Variant cover by DECLAN SHALVEY
32 pg, FC, 5 of 6, $2.99 US • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
The Rogues against the might of The Royal Flush Gang! Guess who just got dealt a losing hand? Do the boys have any more tricks up their sleeves, or will this be the end of their run?GREEN LANTERN CORPS #28
Written by VAN JENSEN
Art and cover by BERNARD CHANG
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by HOWARD CHAYKIN
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
The Green Lanterns are under siege from the secretive Durlans – so it’s time to find the one Lantern who knows all of the Durlans’ tricks! But how do you find a shapeshifter who could be anywhere in the universe? And when the Green Lanterns find out who their newest allies are, some of them might prefer no help at all!
I know I've mentioned this somewhere else: The Durlan everyone is looking for has the surname Daggle. That should be a big, fat clue to older DC fans.
HARLEY QUINN #1 2ND PTG
(W) Amanda Conner, Jimmy Palmiotti
(A) Chad Hardin
(CA) Amanda Conner
$2.99
INJUSTICE YEAR TWO #2
Written by TOM TAYLOR
Art and cover by JHEREMY RAAPACK
1:10 DC Collectibles variant cover
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T • DIGITAL FIRST
This issue will ship with two covers.
With Batman out of action, a grieving Black Canary begins to assemble her own team to combat Superman’s new world order. And Earth’s heroes aren’t the only ones concerned about the Man of Steel’s rule. Word is spreading across the galaxy. Powerful beings across the stars turn their attention towards Earth.
I find this series so depressing that even when I get free review copies, I put off reading them.
THE INVISIBLES DELUXE EDITION BOOK ONE HC
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art by STEVE YEOWELL, JILL THOMPSON, JOHN RIDGWAY, STEVE PARKHOUSE and others
Cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
328 pg, FC, 7.0625” x 10.875” , $29.99 US • MATURE READERS
These stories from THE INVISIBLES #1-12 introduce the team’s latest recruit: a teenage lout from the streets of London. Can Dane survive a mind-altering training course?
Our own Figserello has a lot to say about this series, but I can't find it just now.
JUSTICE LEAGUE 3000 #3
Written by KEITH GIFFEN and J.M. DeMATTEIS
Art and cover by HOWARD PORTER
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
The Flash is defeated. Green Lantern is in the clutches of Locus, a psychotic teenaged girl with the powers of God. And Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman have been banished to a planet wide penal colony!
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #12
Written by MATT KINDT
Art by EDDY BARROWS, EBER FERREIRA and TOM DERENICK
Cover by EDDY BARROWS and EBER FERREIRA
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by MATTEO SCALERA
32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
This issue will ship with three covers.
A devastating battle against Despero begins as Manhunter and Stargirl arrive in San Francisco to save Stargirl’s family from Firestorm’s fallout!
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES VOL. 3: THE FATAL FIVE TP
Written by PAUL LEVITZ
Art by FRANCIS PORTELA, SCOTT KOLINS, KEITH GIFFEN, KEVIN MAGUIRE and others
Cover by KEVIN MAGUIRE
208 pg, FC, $16.99 US
In these stories from issues #15-23, Mano, the Persuader, the Emerald Eye, Tharok and the destructive Validus have joined forces to put an end to the Legion and spread death on a galactic scale. Can a scattered Legion of Super-Heroes stop the new Fatal Five?
LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES: THE GREAT DARKNESS SAGA TP NEW EDITION
Written by PAUL LEVITZ and KEITH GIFFEN
Art by PAT BRODERICK, KEITH GIFFEN and others
Cover by KEITH GIFFEN and AL MILGROM
416 pg, FC, $24.99 US
In this new edition collecting LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #284-296 and ANNUAL #1, Darkseid unveils an ingenious plot to conquer the universe! But the Legion has its own plan to assemble an army of Legionnaires to stand against the Dark Lord and his invincible soldiers!
NIGHTWING #28
Written by KYLE HIGGINS
Art by RUSSELL DATURMAN
Cover by WILL CONRAD
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by TOMMY LEE EDWARDS
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
All the sins of the past still haunt Nightwing. How can he make his peace with his old life if Gotham City won’t leave him alone?
POWER GIRL: POWER TRIP TP
Written by GEOFF JOHNS, JUSTIN GRAY and JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Art by AMANDA CONNER and JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Cover by AMANDA CONNER
392 pg, FC, $29.99 US
Every Power Girl story illustrated by Amanda Conner is collected in one volume that includes JSA CLASSIFIED #1-4 and POWER GIRL #1-12! Don’t miss these stories featuring the Psycho-Pirate, Ultra-Humanite, Vartox and some very sexy alien marauders!
Still my favorite run of Power Girl stories. Sure, the Amanda Conner factor is huge in forming that opinion -- I <3 her work immensely -- but the stories were good, too: Playful and quirky, and an antidote to the painful bathos of her previous series.
Replies
SMALLVILLE SEASON 11: ALIEN #3
Art by EDGAR SALAZAR, DYM and ROB LEAN
Cover by CAT STAGGS
40 pg, FC, 3 of 4, $3.99 US • RATED T • DIGITAL FIRST
Lex Luthor is determined to bring the Monitor to his knees, but the fight isn’t going his way — even Superman is having trouble with the alien interloper. Meanwhile, back in the USA, Chloe and Lois take a trip to Gotham City to check on a death so mysterious, Batman is having trouble figuring it out!
I'm not sure why they bother to call this Smallville any more. It's just a Superman book.
Art by EDUARDO RISSO
Cover by DAVE JOHNSON
224 pg, FC, $19.99 US • MATURE READERS
SPACEMAN tells the story of Orson, a hulking, lonely loser who dreams of the star-trekking life he was genetically engineered for. When Orson finds himself at the center of a celebrity child kidnapping case, he sees a chance to become a hero. Collecting the 9-issue miniseries and a story from STRANGE ADVENTURES #1.
I wanted to like this much more than I did.
Art by PATRICK ZIRCHER
Cover by STEVE SKROCE
32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T+
The Thinker unleashes OMAC on the Suicide Squad at the doors of Belle Reve! In this epic clash, not all will survive!
Art by ANDRES GUINALDO and MARK IRWIN
Cover by RAFAEL SANDOVAL and NORM RAPMUND
12 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US • RATED T
Superboy and his new team of unstable teen powerhouses must return to the present-day DC Universe to make sure Jon Lane Kent lives to see his plans come to fruition!
When did Marv Wolfman start writing this series? That snuck up on me. I haven't seen his name in a DC credit in a loooong time!
Art by MAHMUD ASRAR, SAMI BASRI and others
Cover by MAHMUD ASRAR
192 pg, FC, $16.99 US
In these stories from issues #13-19, H’El convinces Kara that he intends to return them to Krypton prior to its destruction. When presented with the opportunity to return home, Kara fails to see that H’El’s plan will leave the Earth in ruins. Wonder Woman and The Flash must show Kara in the truth before it’s too late!
Yeah, make sure the star of your series is an idiot, where other heroes have to come in and explain things to her. That always attracts readers.
Art and cover by TONY S. DANIEL and BATT
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by DAN PANOSIAN
32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 US
This issue will ship with three covers.
Faora has joined Zod – and now, Earth must kneel before their combined might! Even Superman and Wonder Woman can’t stop their plan for the Phantom Zone!
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
Art and 3-D Motion Covers by VARIOUS
RESOLICIT • FC, $199.99 US
DC’s red-hot 3-D motion covers are set to return in the new VILLAINS MONTH 3-D MOTION COMPLETE SET, now resolicited for February on-sale! This set will include second printings of all 52 Villains Month titles with 3-D motion covers plus the FOREVER EVIL #1 3-D Motion Cover Variant edition!
Retailers: This item is resolicited. All previous orders are cancelled.
If I'd know they were going to do this, I wouldn't have tried to collect them singly. I have spent money badly. Bah!
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA #8
Art: Cezar Razek
Cover: Colton Worley
$3.99
"Dreams of the Thirteenth" continues! The Galactica has led the fleet into an uncharted storm zone to escape the Cylons, but danger awaits. Haunted by chilling dreams of the lost colony of Earth, the crews of the fleet encounter a vast and mysterious artifact at the heart of the storm. Sensors report that the Cylons have pursued the fleet into the storm. Which is the greatest threat ... what lies ahead or what snaps at their heels?
If you had asked me in 1980 if Battlestar Galactica would be a viable franchise -- or even remembered -- 34 years later, I would have found your naivete immensely amusing. So much for my forecasting prowess.
Writer: Marc Gaffen and Kyle McVey
Art: Rod Rodolfo
Variant photo cover
Format: Comic Book
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
When Nick is injected with a lethal poison, he finds himself under the control of a mysterious new foe, and is forced into completing herculean tasks in order to get the antidote ... or die trying. The Labors of Grimm begins!
Art: Sergio Fernandez Davila
Covers: Joe Benitez
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
THE EPIC STEAMPUNK CROSSOVER CONTINUES! Magna Spadarossa gets a taste of life in the Big City, but it's not all she had hoped. Assassins galore are after her, but why? It's up to Vampirella, the Green Hornet, Kato, and the best Victorian futuristic technology they have to keep Magna safe ... but will that be enough?
I haven't really read very many steampunk comics. The concept itself bogs down quickly for me, but I love the illustrations.
Artist: Max Dunbar
Cover by Bill Tortolini
Teen + / 120+ pages / $17.99
A small outbreak can turn into a worldwide apocalypse ... but only through a long string of screw-ups! Once actual zombies begin popping up in our world, a lone intelligence analyst realizes real-life events are beginning to mimic the events of a long-lost, Grade-Z, drive-in horror flick. As he races to save humanity with this knowledge, he quickly learns the only thing more dangerous than ravenous walking corpses is the ineptitude of the living! The gutsplitting (and then eating) comedy that pokes fun at the zombie horror phenomenon! Illustrated in graytones with red highlights (for blood and gore, of course), so it feels like the ever-popular The Walking Dead series. Collects the complete storyline from issues #1-5 of The Mocking Dead comic book series complete with a cover gallery!
Art: Fritz Casas
Cover: Joseph Michael Linsner
Teen + / 40 pages / $4.99
After a fight in a tavern results in Red Sonja being arrested and becoming a prisoner, she is sold to a promoter who stages gladiatorial games. There, in the blood-soaked sand of the arena, she finds herself pitted against an old friend -- a huge snow bear that she once saved from hunters. But will they unite to wreak havoc on their enemies, or will they fight one another to the death?
Art: Walter Geovani
Cover: Jenny Frison
Teen + / 32 pages / $1.00
ONLY ONE DOLLAR!!! This book is a great way to be introduced to Gail Simone's monthly series as well as this month's Red Sonja TPB, which featured the first six issues of Gail's Red Sonja run! Red Sonja gets a fresh new attitude by the dream team of writer Gail Simone and artist Walter Geovani, on the book they were born to create. Sonja pays back a blood debt owed to the one man who has gained her respect, even if it means leading a doomed army to their certain deaths! You do not want to miss this re-introduction the She-Devil with a Sword!
Two one-shots by two of the best writers to ever handle Red Sonja, and one of them only costs a buck. I have no excuse not to sample the books now, do I?
Art: Daniel Indro
Cover: Francesco Francavilla
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
Stranded in Switzerland, his criminal network in tatters, and with the world believing him dead, the world's most notorious villain, Professor James Moriarty, faces his greatest challenge yet - taking care of an orphaned child. Bound by a solemn promise, and determined to seek revenge against a local madman, Moriarty begins a clever campaign to work his way inside his enemy's fortress. The trap is set, and Moriarty is determined to succeed, but is he villainous enough for the task?
Art: Aaron Campbell
Cover: Sean Phillips
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
When both sides are gunning for you, keep your head down and play them off against each other. That's Weaver's only chance to get out alive. If he runs, he'll lose his last chance to discover the truth about his own origins. But if he stand his ground, he might just find there's a worse fate than death awaiting the Specials ...
Art: Jose Luis
Cover: Johnny Desjardins
Variant photo cover
Teen+ / 32 pages / $3.99
Love, blood, rage and death. The heartbreaking conclusion to Vampirella's misadventures in Mississippi. Her former lover wants to murder her, and her own body is shutting down from a mystical wound. For the first time, all Vampirella has to rely on ... is faith.
I bet the whole purpose of this storyline was to get Vampi into some Daisy Dukes.
Cultural note: I have lived in the South my whole life and never, ever seen a girl dress like Daisy Duke. Yes, there are Southern girls that dress provocatively, or dress provocatively and are so naive that they are unaware that they are being provocative -- but in the same ways as girls do in other parts of the country. All American girls, in every part of the country, are subject to the same TV, advertising, magazines, social pressures and cultural norms.
And, honestly, the percentage of Southern girls who dress to draw attention is probably lower than in other parts of the country, thanks the South being in the Bible Belt and all. Sadly, the "Daisy Duke" look is entirely a Hollywood invention, perhaps to make the South more interesting than poverty and ignorance generally is.
IDW PUBLICATIONS
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: FELL'S FIVE
Art by Andrea Di Vito, Denis Medri, Horacio Domingues, Juanan, Guido Guidi, Vicente Alcazar, Nacho Arranz, Andres Ponce
Cover by Di Vito
HC • FC • $49.99 • 424 pages • 7” x 11”
Join Adric Fell, the halfling Bree Three-Hands, the dwarf Khal Khalundurrin, the tiefling Tisha Swornheart, and the elf Varis in a tale of high adventure and deep secrets. Collects all 15 issues of the Dungeons & Dragons series and also includes extras like comic and game adventures, character sheets, glossaries, and an art gallery.
Man, this would make a great role-playing game!
What? Oh. Never mind.
Art by Steve Kurth, Jamal Igle
Cover by Jamal Igle
TPB • FC • $19.99 • 152 pages
Collects issues #6–11.
The Mad Monk returns and his personal vendetta against DUKE will turn all of New York City into an island of terror. COBRA COMMANDER also sets his sights on the city but BARONESS and DESTRO have schemes of their own… but which side will they choose?
This guy, Judge Dredd and X-O Manowar should form a club.
Art by John McCrea
Cover by Greg Staples
TPB • FC • $17.99 • 104 pages
The Martian mayhem overtakes Mega-City One! During the annual meeting of the Mega-City Mafia, a new boss makes a play for power thanks to a mysterious benefactor. Meanwhile, Judge Dredd conducts a routine bust that turns out to be anything but when he makes a shocking (and disgusting) discovery!
“A fun and enjoyable read that brings laughs and plenty of action.” – Comic Book Therapy
This looks like fun. Has anybody been reading it?
Art/Cover by Kieth
Variant re-colored cover by Sam Kieth
32 pages • $3.99
Sara and Maxx retreat under an overpass and reflect on their own personal demons. The black Isz keep spilling into the real world as omens of Mr. Gone's plans grow more evident. Meanwhile, Julie tries to help Sara sort out high school nightmares and encounters with bullies that send Sara to the breaking point. Digitally re-mastered and re-colored!
Art by menton3, Christopher Mitten
Cover by menton3
For subscription customers only … enlist at your local comic shop! A variant cover by gothic/surrealist painter David Stoupakis!
32 pages • $3.99
Series finale! Despite a tragic loss, the girls hone in on the source of their ills and make their final, fateful decision. Includes a six-page supplemental story by writer Jason Mote and artist Christopher Mitten (30 Days of Night/Criminal Macabre)!
Evocative artwork by menton3 (Monocyte, Transfusion)!
Includes six-pages backup story by Christopher Mitten (30 Days of Night/Criminal Macabre)!
Is that Greta Garbo on the second cover? Marlene Dietrich? She sure looks familiar.
MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC #1 HUNDRED PENNY PRESS EDITION
Art/Cover by Andy Price
Variant cover by Sara Richard
32 pages • $1.00
The story that started Pony comic book-mania returns for an affordable price! The perfect place to jump on to the My Little Pony bandwagon!
POPEYE CLASSICS VOL 3 HC
$29.99
Re-presenting the classic Popeye comic book series that debuted in 1948 by Bud Sagendorf, the long-time assistant to creator E.C. Segar! Carefully reproduced from the original comic books and lovingly restored. Also includes more of Sagendorf's gloriously funny one-pagers, rare photos, and extra artwork!
Ooooooh. WANT!
Art/Cover by Dean Kotz
TPB • FC • $17.99 • 104 pages
"…the best book I read this week, hands down. It’s plot heavy, character-driven, looks beautiful and is fun in a way some comics just forget to be." –- Bleeding Cool
The story of “the two-fisted masked guardian” is set in Depression-era Toronto where gangsters, gunmen, and even super villains run rampant … or they would be if it weren’t for the city’s protector, the Red Panda and his trusty sidekick, the “fearless fighting female,” the Flying Squirrel. The characters were originally introduced in the award-winning radio drama series, The Red Panda Adventures, created by Gregg Taylor and were done in the style of a 1930s radio show.
Taylor continued the adventures of the Red Panda in a series of novels, Tales Of The Red Panda and then in the 3-issue digital comic miniseries, Mask Of The Red Panda, which are being collected and printed into one volume for the first time by IDW Publishing. Following in the tradition of the original radio show, Mask Of The Red Panda is written in the style of classic pulp fiction stories of the 1930s and 1940s and combined with the stunning artwork by Dean Kotz, making it essential reading for fans of the Golden Age.
Red Panda: Mask Of The Red Panda joins the cavalcade of digital successes from MonkeyBrain Inc. and IDW welcomes the addition of the acclaimed series to its publishing slate. Red Panda: Mask Of The Red Panda will be the fifth MonkeyBrain Inc. series to make the leap from digital to print publication through IDW Publishing.
“Because these characters started out in the radio serial, they've literally just lived as voices in my head for years now,” said Gregg Taylor, “To actually see them spring to action-packed life in Dean's beautiful artwork has been a tremendous joy, and to have them find a home with Monkeybrain and IDW Publishing is absolutely a dream come true."
As the home of premier digital titles, MonkeyBrain Inc. continues to produce unique and exciting material, which has found a home with IDW!
It's a nice concept, despite the silly name. But I've never seen it. Recommendations, anyone?
TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES VOL 7: CITY FALL PART 2
Art by Mateus Santolouco, Kevin Eastman
Cover by Mateus Santolouco
TPB • FC • $17.99 • 104 pages
"City Fall" concludes as Shredder reveals his new second-in-command and launches a full-scale war on New York City! Forced to make strange alliances, the Turtles fight back against their most deadly enemy.
• Collects issues #25–28 of the smash-hit ongoing series!
Art by Andrew Griffith, Livio Ramondelli
Cover by Casey W. Coller
Variant cover by Phil Jimenez
Variant cover by Livio Ramondelli
32 pages • $3.99
THE BIG ONE! This is it—the battle every TRANSFORMERS reader has dreamed of! Titans clash on CYBERTRON! The fate of the LOST LIGHT! And ORION PAX fights fist-to-face against his ultimate nemesis! And from here on? Things only get bigger!
IDW puts out so much TMNT and Transformers material each month that those two franchises must be a huge revenue stream for them. Yet I have no interest in either. Am I missing something, Legionnaires?
Art by David Messina, Claudia Balboni, Bruno Letizia
Cover by Giovanna Niro
TPB • FC • $14.99 • 160 pages • 6” x 9”
Mind reading waitress Sookie Stackhouse is in New Orleans helping Vampire Sheriff Eric Northman track down an insane killer named Guerra. Bill Compton's in town, too, making sure Eric doesn't get fresh with Sookie, and investigating a local Hep-D outbreak that may be connected to Guerra's latest victims. Meanwhile, back in Bon Temps, why is Pam hanging out at Merlotte's–and what does she want with Lafayette?
• All-new format!
Art by Gordon Purcell, Charles Allard, Josef Rubinstein
Cover by Sam Shearon
HC • FC • $29.99 • 236 pages
Mulder and Scully continue to chase down leads of the most bizarre and unexplained cases the FBI has ever seen! X-Files Classics, Vol. 2 features the two-part “Family Portrait,” “Donor,” “Silver Lining,” the three-part “Remote Control,” and more!
Collects issues #20–29 of the Topps series.
Art by Greg Scott
Cover by Carlos Valenzuela
Variant cover by menton3
32 pages • $3.99
Our first issue to feature an original “Monster of the Month”!
“Chitter” A missing persons investigation leads Agents Mulder and Scully into a disgusting mess of human sacrifice, enough bugs to keep your skin crawling long after the issue is over, and The X-Files’ newest “Monster of the Month.” But what is “The Chittering God,” and why does it hunger for Dana Scully?
X-Files titles are beginning to catch up with TMNT and Transformers titles. So do you knowwhat crossovers are in the works? That's right: X-File/TMNT and X-Files/Transformers. I am not making this up.
Incidentally, is it coincidence or design that all three covers feature Gillian Anderson? I guess redheaded girls sell more comic books than brown-headed guys.
IMAGE COMICS
EGOS #2
Art / cover GUS STORMS
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $2.99
The hero-epic of the far future continues as Deuce, the EGOs' leader, flies off to battle with his army of [CENSORED]s. Meanwhile, his estranged wife Pixel must deal with an army of new team applicants. Featuring: Costumes! Battles! Masse, the Living Galaxy! Blood and gore! Uncomfortable emotions!
I enjoyed the conversation between Pixel and her mother in the preview below, but I'm uncomfortable with the art. It can't seem to figure out whether it wants to be realistic or cartoonish and comes down somewhere vaguely -- and unattractively -- in the middle.
Art SEAN PHILLIPS & ELIZABETH BREITWEISER
Cover SEAN PHILLIPS
FC / M / $3.50
NEW STORY ARC!
Nicolas Lash is in the deepest trouble possible, and there's only one person who can save him now... the problem is, trouble is her business.
And don't forget all the back page extras you can only find in FATALE's single issues every month!
Only four issues left. I guess I should be glad that the title has been delayed for several months to give me more time until The End. But I'm not. I want more Fatale!
Art SEAN PHILLIPS & ELIZABETH BREITWEISER
Cover SEAN PHILLIPS
144 PAGES / FC / M / $14.99
Sex, drugs, rock-n-roll, and ritual killers all collide in the strangest and most exciting volume of FATALE yet. A strange woman with no memory stumbles into the lives of a struggling grunge band in mid-‘90s Seattle... Is she their muse? Will she save them from "one-hit wonder" status? Or will she be something much worse, especially since there's a psycho killer on her trail?
The newest volume of the New York Times Best-Selling series!
Collects FATALE #15-19
Needless to say, I've already got this on order from Amazon. And, of course, now that that I've almost got the whole series in TPB, Image announces a deluxe collection series. Bah!
Art / cover JUSTIN GREENWOOD
32 PAGES / FC / M / $3.50
"THE RUSSIA SHIFT," Part One
A space adventure sure to captivate science-fiction and procedural crime fiction fans, THE FUSE is a new ongoing, hard-bitten sci-fi crime series from ANTONY JOHNSTON (Unbral, Wasteland, Daredevil) and JUSTIN GREENWOOD (Wasteland, Resurrection). THE FUSE follows detectives Ristovych and Dietrich of Midway City's Homicide division, whose jurisdiction is an orbiting power station 22,000 miles up.
Johnston describes THE FUSE #1 as a blend of different influences. “I'm a sucker for detective stories, down-at-heel cop shows, and the kind of 'lived-in' sci-fi where everything feels like it might fall apart at any moment,” he explains. “Combine those with a frontier attitude, where a half million people all think they can get away with murder, and you've got THE FUSE.”
The creators worked together as a team and fed off of each other’s creativity. “The thing I love best about cop stories and crime comics is that ultimately they're about people, and that's where I think Antony and I tell our best stories,” said Greenwood. “Combine this with Shari Chankhamma's wonderful, atmospheric color sense and Ed Brisson's great lettering and you get the kind of comic that I know, as a fan, I'd want to check out myself.”
For the full interview visit the Image Comics website at: imagecomics.com.
In “THE RUSSIA SHIFT,” Part One, we’re introduced to the permanently understaffed and overworked murder police on board “The Fuse,” assigned to working a new frontier where the law struggles to be heard, let alone obeyed.
Sounds like Law & Order meets Sean Connery's Outland. This is another book that got squeezed out of The Captain's Picks.
GREAT PACIFIC #13
Art / cover A MARTÍN MORAZZO
Cover B MICHAEL WALSH & RUTH REDMOND
32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99
“THE UNIVERSAL MINISTRY OF INTERGALACTIA”
When a mysterious visitor washes up warning of UFOs and invaders from space, Chas Worthington finds his grip over New Texas threatened. But if the aliens are coming, Chas knows just the leader the earthlings need to represent them — himself!
"Abduction" variant cover by MICHAEL WALSH (ZERO, COMEBACK)!
Art T-REX JONES
Cover STEVE SEELEY
128 PAGES / FC / T+ / $14.99
Mix X-Files with Mythbusters and you get HOAX HUNTERS, the series about a reality show that is out to cover up the dark, mysterious corners of the world. THE BOOK OF MOTHMAN collects the final arc of the acclaimed first season — dig deeper into the mysteries of Jack’s dad and the multiverse, Regan’s powers, and what the heck is going on with Murder.
Collects HOAX HUNTERS #10-13 and CASE FILES #1
Praise for MANIFEST DESTINY:
“Historical fiction can be a gamble in comics. … By keeping it weird and focusing on their characters, Dingess and Roberts make a great case for how well it can work.” — Marykate Jasper, Comic Book Resources
“Manifest Destiny #1 promises to be some really solid storytelling, focusing on a time when the world was still a mystery to those who thought themselves above it, and a world which too often valued the pioneer spirit above basic human decency.” — Andy Hunsaker, Crave Online
“Dingess and Roberts have done a terrific job here, establishing the ugly side as well as the wonder of this expedition to the West. Manifest Destiny is looking to be one revelatory journey.” — Michelle White, Multiversity Comics
“Salvation lies west, and Manifest Destiny is proof — taking a smart spin on otherwise barren narrative territory, Chris Dingess, Matthew Roberts and Owen Gieni have produced an opening issue that will pique your interest and get you invested in our heroes. This is the kind of trailblazing you won't want to miss.” —David Pepose, Newsarama
“An enjoyable start, Manifest Destiny #1 delivers two engaging protagonists that readers will root for. I want to see what monsters show up during this exploration into the American frontier.” — Jorge Solis, Bloody Disgusting
“It is way too early to start making best comics of the year lists, but we can safely put Manifest Destiny on the contenders list at least. As a history buff and a lover of all things weird, kooky, and slightly off kilter, I can't recommend Manifest Destiny enough.” — Cody Ferrell, Comic Book Therapy
“If you are looking for a title that is a little bit different, yet full of adventure, excitement, and some elements of horror with stunningly beautiful artwork and writing, then this one is right up your alley.” — James Anders, Comic Bastards
MANIFEST DESTINY #4
Art / Cover MATTHEW ROBERTS & OWEN GIENI
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $2.99
Surrounded by buffalotaur and fighting for survival, what Lewis and Clark need most is a monster killer. And her name is Sacagawea.
Buffalotaur? Sacagawea the Monster Killer? OK, OK, I'll break down and order the trade. You've worn down my resistance, Image!
Art SIMON ROY, FAREL DALRYMPLE, GIANNIS MILONOGIANNIS, BRANDON GRAHAM, MATT SHEEAN, & MALACHI WARD
Cover FAREL DALRYMPLE
128 PAGES / FC / T+ / $14.99
Collects PROPHET #32 & 34-38
The Earth Empire is now rebuilt and gaining a stronger grasp on Earthspace. Facing an even more menacing new threat, Old Man Prophet and his team look for the help of an old ally.
Art SZYMON KUDRANSKI & TODD McFARLANE
Cover SZYMON KUDRANSKI
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $2.99
Cogliostro continues mentoring Jim as he learns to harness the power of the costume and the deeper power within him...but something goes terribly wrong. Is this the end for Cog, or will Jim prevail in controlling the dark forces vying for his special gift?
Art C.P. SMITH
Cover A C.P. SMITH
Cover B MICHAEL AVON OEMING
32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99
Joe Fitzgerald finds himself with a most unusual companion on his journey to Hell: an angel cast out by Heaven and unwanted in Hell. Soon they find themselves hunted by dark forces determined to stop their mission to rescue Laura ... and only one of them may survive to see the journey to its conclusion.
Art / cover RAHSAN EKEDAL
32 PAGES / BW / T+ / $3.99
“OUTBREAK,” Conclusion
What will war take from Dr. David Loren?
This book is two months late. Can I be forgiven for not remembering what it's about?
Art CHARLIE ADLARD, STEFANO GAUDIANO, & CLIFF RATHBURN
Cover CHARLIE ADLARD & DAVE STEWART
32 PAGES / BW / M / $2.99
“ALL OUT WAR,” Part Seven
In the aftermath of the unthinkable.
The only thing that could be "unthinkable" in The Walking Dead is the death of Rick Grimes. If that hasn't happened, then they shouldn't say that.
ALL-NEW X-FACTOR #3
CARMINE DI GIANDOMENICO (A)
Cover by KRIS ANKA & JARED FLETCHER
Variant Cover by TBD
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
“Not Brand X”
• The All-New X-Factor is meant to help people…
• But one of their own has a secret.
• Hint: It’s Gambit.
I blame Chris Fluit for this. [Shakes fist at sky] FLUUUUUIIIITTTT!
Art & Cover by STUART IMMONEN
Variant Cover by DALE KEOWN
32 PGS./Rated T …$3.99
“THE TRIAL OF JEAN GREY” PART 3!
Jean Grey must pay for her crimes – even the ones she hasn’t committed yet! Marvel is pleased to present your first look at ALL-NEW X-MEN #23, the next blockbuster chapter of “The Trial of Jean Grey”! From the critically acclaimed creative team of Brian Michael Bendis & Stuart Immonen – the alien Shi’ar Empire has abducted Jean Grey, placing her on trial for the cataclysmic crimes of her future self. On the edge of deep space, the young mutant and original host of the Phoenix Force pleads for her life amidst alien races who would see her destroyed!
As her fellow X-Men and new allies the Guardians of the Galaxy race across the stars to her aid, will they arrive in time? Or will it be too late? Plus, an ending so shocking you’ll have to see it to believe it! Don’t miss the issue everyone will be talking about when ALL-NEW X-MEN #23 blasts into comic shops this February!
As big a deal as Marvel has painted the Phoenix Force, this storyline is almost inevitable. I think it'll be fun to see how it will play out!
TOM COHEN (W)
WELLINTON ALVES (A)
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99
GET READY FOR THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2 WITH AN AWESOME ADAPTATION OF THE WEB-SLINGER’S LATEST HIT FILM!
• When danger threatens the city, high school student Peter Parker leaps into action as the wall-crawling Spider-Man!
• Spider-Man! The Lizard! Gwen Stacy! All this and more movie magic!
No one seems to have a cover image for this book, including marvel.com. Weird.
SALVADOR LARROCA (A)
Cover by MIKE DEODATO
VARIANT COVER BY DUSTIN WEAVER
32 PGS./Rated T …$3.99
“ADAPT OR DIE”
• The science war overtakes the world(s).
• The All-New Avengers Strike Back!
• All the answers to the questions you wished remained hidden.
• The collision of Avengers and New Avengers is imminent.
If this cover looks familiar, it's because it's an homage to Avengers #3:
Art by ANDRE ARAUJO
Cover by DAVE MARQUEZ
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99
The fall of man begins! As CAPTAIN AMERICA and THE UNCANNY AVENGERS visit HANK PYM’S android Avengers team, DIMITRIOS, the vengeance-seeking scion of ULTRON, downloads death and destruction in the ultimate battle between artificial and organic intelligence! As humankind teeters on the brink of extinction, a glimpse into a much stranger Marvel Universe of the 130th Century is revealed! Who lives, who dies, and how will A.I. factor into this dark tomorrow?
Penciled by JEROME OPENA & ADAM KUBERT
Cover by DUSTIN WEAVER
152 PGS./Rated T+ …$19.99
The greatest heroes in comics, together as one unbeatable team! The Avengers “go large,” expanding their roster and sphere of influence to a global and even interplanetary level. When Captain America puts out his call, who will respond? The answers will surprise you! The Avengers’ first mission takes them to Mars, but the secrets of the Garden lead right back to Earth’s Savage Land! And when the Shi’ar Imperial Guard are broken on a dead moon, the Avengers travel across the galaxy to battle an invading force. It all leads up to the secret origin of the universe itself, as Captain Universe races to decipher the code hidden in the Avengers’ recent adventures! Jonathan Hickman takes Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to the next level with big threats, big ideas and big idealism. These are the Avengers NOW! Collecting AVENGERS (2012) #1-6.
To tell you the truth, I didn't much care for the characters or concepts Hickman put on Mars, or how the Avengers' encounter with those characters (and what they put on Earth) seemed to end with no real resolution or sense of emergency. But with Hickman, at least you know that even bad stories can be redeemed, as all Hickman stories are just pieces of a larger story. Unless, of course, the larger story sucks, too!
Penciled by JOHN ROMITA JR.
Cover by JOHN ROMITA JR.
136 PGS./Rated T …$19.99
Thrust into a bizarre, inhospitable world far from home, the all-new, high-adventure, mind-melting, tough-as-nails, sci-fi, pulp-fantasy era of Captain America starts NOW! Arnim Zola’s ambitions leave Captain America stranded in the upside-down territory known as Dimension Z. With no country and no allies, what’s left for the Sentinel of Liberty to protect? Just the one thing his foe values most: Zola’s son! Steve has saved the boy’s life, but can he keep him alive against the savage barbarians of Phrox — with the fate of a world hinging on his victory? And when Zola’s terrible experiments on the indigenous creatures give birth to a terrible new foe, the Odd War of Dimension Z begins! Collecting CAPTAIN AMERICA (2012) #1-5.
Initially I was pleasantly surprised at the aggressive way Remender deviated from any other kind of Captain America story I'd ever read. But the second half kinda soured me -- not only did it end poorly, but the story went on too long and beat up on Cap too much. I've got Castaway in Dimension Z volumes one and two on my bookshelf, but I don't imagine I will ever re-read them.
(A) Marco Checchetto & Various
(CA) Chris Samnee
$34.99
Mark Waid's epic re-invigoration of the Man Without Fear continues! Daredevil and Spider-Man form a shaky alliance with not one, but two Punishers to obtain the invaluable Omega Drive - which contains the information needed to dismantle an international criminal network. But the plan goes pear-shaped when one hero betrays the group! Then, Daredevil undergoes urgent brain surgery as size-changing scientiest Hank Pym enters his head to destroy sensory-deprivation robots implanted by Dr. Doom. But Daredevil's recovery hits a snag when he starts to question reality. His best friend, Foggy Nelson - believing Matt is losing his mind, and that he presents a danger to himself and others - dissolves their law partnership...and their friendship! Ghosts from Daredevil's past return to haunt him in a mind-bending adventure that leaves him second-guessing his sanity as he faces off against dangerous new villain the Coyote. Collecting DAREDEVIL (2011) #11-21, AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #6 and PUNISHER (2011) #10.
GERRY DUGGAN (W)
MIKE HAWTHORNE (A)
Cover by MARK BROOKS
32 PGS./Parental Advisory …$2.99
“Deadpool vs. S.H.I.E.L.D.” Part 3
• One helicarrier full of troops…
• One deadly creature intent on killing them all…
• A creature…named Deadpool.
Maybe it's because I'm an editor, and I'm paid to have a dirty mind, in order to catch double entendres before they see print. But if you just glance at that image it seems pretty suggestive, at least to me. And I am trying desperately to UN-look at it.
Penciled by STEPHANIE HANS & WILL SLINEY
Cover by MARK BROOKS
136 PGS./Rated T+ …$17.99
With Thanos’ hordes invading Earth, the Fearless Defenders live up to their name in an INFINITY tie-in like no other! Misty kicked ass in Valkyrie’s world, now it’s time to see how Valkyrie fares in Misty’s. But it’s not easy being an Asgardian shieldmaiden — especially when your boyfriend’s got a chip on his shoulder! And when a gifted young woman discovers she possesses terrifying powers, will this new hero join the ranks of the Defenders? Then, secrets of Hippolyta’s resurrection are revealed on a field trip to New Amazonia as the team makes a stand against Caroline LeFay’s apocalyptic Doom Maidens! Plus: Valkyrie and Annabelle’s complicated relationship becomes even more perplexing and problematic, and a new (cosmically awesome) character joins the team! Guest-starring Elsa Bloodstone, Venom, Dr. Strange, Iron Fist, Hercules, Werewolf By Night and more! Collecting FEARLESS DEFENDERS #7-12.
I wasn't terribly impressed with volume 1, but I'll get this one just to finish the story.
Penciled by GREG LAND
Cover by GREG LAND
136 PGS./Rated T+ …$19.99
Tony Stark is Iron Man — technological visionary, wealthy playboy, unparalleled engineer and armored Avenger. But now, his armor’s most powerful upgrade has become a lethal danger: the techno-virus Extremis is loose! Tony’s hunt for the rogue Extremis Units takes him to New Camelot, where he clashes with the Circle mech-knights and dogfights the Russian Black Exoskeleton Academy; to Colombia, where he battles old foes Vibro, Firebrand and the Living Laser; and to Paris’ ancient catacombs, where absolute horror awaits — and Tony may have to betray an old friend! Introducing Iron Man’s stealth armor, heavy-duty battle-suit and space armor as Tony creates new suits to tackle new challenges! If he wants to save the world from his own deadly nano-virus, Iron Man must act fast — and Tony Stark must build faster! Collecting IRON MAN (2012) #1-5.
Art/cover by John Romita
$4.99
It's the flashback issue you've all been waiting for: The secret origin of Hit-Girl! Training, first blood, and of course, lots of hugs and positive reinforcement from Big Daddy. Exactly how does little Mindy McCready earn her assassin stripes? Hint: It ain't by collecting stickers. This issue will be extra-sized for extra awesome!
Loooong delayed, but this series has to end for the inevitable movie, doesn't it?
Art/cover by BRAHM REVEL
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
• All the X-men intended to do was locate two young mutants and keep them from harm’s way.
• But now, scattered, manipulated and fighting themselves, the X-Men must get their act together and save an entire town!
• Can the X-Men stand against an army of villains ripped from their own minds?!
32 PGS./All Ages …$2.99
• The Avengers face their deadliest foe yet! … Or is that their deadest foe yet?
• Dracula, King of the Vampires is coming, to drain the Avengers of their powers!
(CA) Gil Kane
$69.99
Steve Gerber's DEFENDERS ranks as a high-water mark of '70s Marvel. Taking the famous non-team and mixing in his own unique brand of sharp social commentary, Gerber brought forth stories both action-packed and insightful! We begin with a classic four-part saga featuring the bigoted Sons of the Serpent that brings members past and present together to defend the defenseless. Then, the Guardians of the Galaxy hit the scene and take the Defenders to the year 3015 A.D.! It's an amazing adventure including the debut of Starhawk - and while we were at it, we added the Guardians of the Galaxy's first appearance, too! Oh, and there's an elf with a gun. You'll see... Collecting DEFENDERS (1972) #22-30, GIANT-SIZE DEFENDERS #5 and MARVEL SUPER-HEROES (1967) #18.
If I'm remembering correctly, this volume falls in the run of Defenders that was my favorite. I seem to remember a lot of weirdness, and Gerber playing fast and loose with the "rules" of team books and art that I really liked, especially a lot of Tom Palmer inks. If this is in fact from that period, then I recommend it. If not, forget I said anything.
Art by NICK ROCHE
Cover by MARK BROOKS
Variant Cover by Sharp
32 PGS./ONE-SHOT/Rated T+ …$3.99
Part 4 of “Revolutionary War”
• The long-awaited return of DEATH’S HEAD -- one of the biggest hits of the original Marvel UK!
• Death’s Head! Death’s Head II! On an adventure together for the first time EVER!
• What threat could be grave enough to bring these two heroes together from across time? How about the villainous Mys-Tech organization resurfacing with an army?!
The "long-awaited return of Death's Head" -- really? Long awaited by whom? Not by meem! And besides, he was just in Iron Man a few months ago, so the memory of his really annoying speech pattern is still fresh in my mind.
Art and Cover by RICHARD ISANOVE
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
In SAVAGE WOLVERINE #14.NOW, acclaimed storyteller Richard Isanove (Stephen King’s Dark Tower) presents untold chapter of Logan’s past is revealed during the 1930’s prohibition era. Long before he was an Avenger and X-Man, Wolverine sunk his claws into the bootlegging market in the 1930’s Dustbowl era! Carrying whiskey down from Canada, the ruthless mutant suddenly finds himself the accidental caretaker of a group of orphans whose family was sheltered by the mob. Faced with his first true calling to something greater, will Logan rise from the shadows to be the hero the world needs?
Penciled by CARLO BARBERI, DAVID BALDEON, PAT OLLIFFE & TIM GREEN II
Cover by RYAN STEGMAN
112 PGS./Rated T+ …$15.99
Everything has changed for Kaine. His second chance at life is over. Now, at his lowest point, Kaine comes face-to-face with the one man who’s fueled his obsession, hate and guilt his entire life: Ben Reilly, the original Scarlet Spider! Alone, adrift, beaten and lost, Kaine’s body is broken — and his soul is next. Enter the Hunter — but what does Kraven really want? It’s not what you might think. Plus: Kaine’s supporting cast is about to pay the price of being his friend. And after the immense sacrifices Kaine must make to survive, he is faced with a choice — one that may see him leaving his new life forever. But is there a place for the Scarlet Spider anywhere in this world? The answers will surprise you as Kaine’s story comes to a close! Collecting SCARLET SPIDER (2012) #21-25.
Art by LUKE ROSS
Cover by BUTCH GUICE
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
HOW TO MA.I.M. A MOCKINGBIRD, Part Four
• Secret Avengers X the A.I.M. island = Blood, sweat, punches and broken bones.
• Events that began in #1 move to their conclusion.
• A Secret Avenger dies.
Luke Ross? I can't remember the last time I saw his name in a Marvel credit. It's been a long time! And hey, Marvel, how come we don't have a proper cover?
SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #27.NOW
Written by DAN SLOTT
Art & Cover by GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI
Variant Cover by Mark Brooks
Sketch Variant by Mark Brooks
Animal variant by Jenny Parks
Blank Variant Also Available
32 PGS./Rated T …$3.99
“Goblin Nation” #1 (of 5)
The end is here – and today, Marvel is proud to present your first look at SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #27.NOW – Part 1 of ‘Goblin Nation’! The Superior Spider-Man has failed. From the shadows, Goblin has taken complete control of New York’s underworld, right under his very nose. And it’s all Otto Octavius’ fault. The pieces are in play. The Goblin and his army are poised to dismantle his life piece by piece. But the Superior Spider-Man isn’t going down without a fight. Otto faces his greatest battle yet against Spider-Man’s greatest nemesis. But is her ready?
Win or lose, it’s all going to change. All leading up to April’s grand finale that will change everything you though you knew about Spider-Man! Don’t miss the first chapter of the biggest event in the entire Superior Spider-Man Saga when SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #27.NOW swings into comic shops this February!
If you're currently following Superior Spider-Man like me, I don't have to tell you that they've really built this up well, and even though I know the broad contours of how it has to end, I'm pretty jazzed about reading it.
Art & Cover ESAD RIBIC
Variant Covers by CLAY MANN & SIMONE BIANCHI
Animal Variant by JENNY PARKS
Variant Cover by MILO MANARA (?)
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
THE LAST DAYS OF MIDGARD begin NOW!
The Asgardian Thunder God has fought countless battles in defense of his adopted home of Earth. But there are no God Butchers or Dark Elves to fight this time. The planet itself is dying – a victim of abuse and depletion at the hands of Roxxon Energy Corporation – the world’s largest (and most nefarious) energy provider. How can he save the world he loves when there is no fight to be had? Now, Thor must team up with S.H.I.E.L.D. environmental agent Roz Solomon and square off against a multinational super-corporation and its ruthless CEO, Broxton Agger, a man the business world calls “The Minotaur”!
Meanwhile, millennia away, a future version of Thor squares off against the greatest threat in the history of the Marvel Universe – GALACTUS, the Devourer of Worlds! Winner take all! The prize? The remains of the planet Earth! Don’t miss the start of a blockbuster new story arc when “The Last Days of Midgard” kicks off in THOR: GOD OF THUNDER #19.NOW this February!
THOR: GOD OF THUNDER #19.NOW also includes a code for a digital copy of that same issue on the Marvel Comics app for iOS and Android devices as well as the entire first collection of THOR: GOD OF THUNDER absolutely free!
Wait -- if Earth exists in the future, doesn't that mean it survives in the present? That's probably part of the plot, I guess. P.S. I love this art -- it's perfect for the character.
Penciled by JOE MADUREIRA
Cover by JOE MADUREIRA
128 PGS./Parental Advisory …$19.99
When the Scarlet Witch is shot down in broad daylight, everyone is a suspect! What secret is exposed that ruins Iron Man? Who is hiding behind The Black Panther’s mask? Can the murderer be Hawkeye The Marksman? It’s a race against time as The Ultimates — Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, including Captain America and Thor — face off against Venom, Magneto and Sabretooth! This action-packed murder mystery also features The Hulk, Spider-Man and Wolverine as well as the first appearance of the Black Panther. Written by Emmy and Eisner-winner Jeph Loeb (TV’s HEROES and LOST) with artwork featuring the trimphant return of JOE MADUREIRA (THE UNCANNY X-MEN) with glorious color painting by CHRISTIAN LICHTNER (BATTLE CHASERS).
This has been added and bumped from the schedule umpty-ump times, which I find baffling (as well as time-consuming and irritating). How hard can it be to reprint something from the digital age? Anyway, if they bump it off the schedule again before Wednesday, I'm leaving in the Guide. Phooey.
Art by ROLAND BOSCHI
Cover by ANDREW ROBINSON
Variant Cover by IN-HYUK LEE
Animal Variant by CHRIS ELIOPOULOS
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
A tortured and broken soul, Bucky Barnes spent most of his life in service to the enemy. Programmed to be ruthless and efficient killing machine, The Winter Soldier conducted countless assassinations and wetwork missions for the Soviet Union.
Set during the Cold War, Winter Soldier: The Bitter March follows Bucky on one of his most dangerous missions yet – one that pits him directly against S.H.I.E.L.D., HYDRA, and more! With Nick Fury missing and presumed dead, S.H.I.E.L.D. sends its top agent Ran Shen to retrieve two Nazi scientists who hold the key to winning the Cold War! But the Americans aren’t the only ones who want their secrets. The Soviets have dispatched their own deadly operative – The Winter Soldier! His mission: acquire the scientists by any means necessary – and kill them if they fall into the wrong hands!
“In the late 1960s, a S.H.I.E.L.D. mission gone wrong begat the creation of the Iron Nail, the foe whose schemes and strategies are bedeviling Captain America in the present in his own series,” says Marvel Executive Editor Tom Brevoort. “WINTER SOLDIER: THE BITTER MARCH tells the story of that fateful mission, and the events that set S.H.I.E.L.D. operative Ran Shen onto the path that would result in him becoming the dreaded Iron Nail.”
Intrigue, adventure, romance, and murder are everywhere in this high-octane, pulse pounding, spy pulp thriller! And don’t miss the shocking conclusion that will shatter everything you knew about the life of modern-day Captain America! It all starts this February in Winter Soldier: The Bitter March #1!
As a child of the 1960s, this sounds right up my alley -- like a lost James Bond movie set between Dr. No and Goldfinger. Except that, unlike a Bond film, it seems likely that the bad guys will win. (The chief bad guy has the series named for him! Not a good sign if your name is "Ran Shen"!) All that could make it better is if former Winter Soldier artist Butch Guice was doing the art, but the preview below looks pretty 1960s-ish.
Now remember, fellas -- no cell phones! Or FM radio! Or CDs! Or computers smaller than a Buick! Or anything digital! Or ... well, just remember that the '60s were really primitive! The most impressive technology of the time was a sniper rifle you could assemble from a briefcase!
Art by NICK BRADSHAW & PEPE LARRAZ
Cover by NICK BRADSHAW
32 PGS. / Rated T …$3.99
SCHOOL’S OUT FOREVER! PENULTIMATE ISSUE!
• It’s the end of the year for the Jean Grey school – but where do our graduates go from here? And who will have survived the experience?!
• Jason Aaron, Pepe Larraz & Nick Bradshaw bring the story of the Jean Grey school to a close!
"SCHOOL’S OUT FOREVER!" it says.
Well, until the immediate reboot, already announced. Who do they think they're fooling?
Art by ROCK-HE KIM
Variant Cover by PHIL NOTO
Sketch Variant by PHIL NOTO
Animal variant by KATE COOK
32 PGS./PARENTAL ADVISORY …$3.99
This February, Cable leads a new black-ops squad to the darkest corners of the Marvel Universe in the all-new X-Force #1, the high-octane new series from the red-hot creative team of Si Spurrier & Rock-He Kim!
The Marvel Universe is a different place than it once was – and mutants are in more danger than ever before. Deadly threats are everywhere, and it’ll take a squad unlike any other to shut them down before they happen. S.H.I.E.L.D. has it’s Secret Avengers, Britain has MI-13 – and now Mutantkind has X-Force! So when an international incident threatens the already fragile human/mutant relations, the Mutant Nation needs a dirty tricks department – and X-Force is it!
“X-Force returns to form as the black ops team that isn’t afraid to get its hands dirty protecting the species,” says Axel Alonso, Editor-in-Chief. “But this time, X-Force isn’t looking to keep its existence a secret – they want to send a loud-and-clear message to the world that the Mutant Nation is not to be messed with.”
“They don’t want global domination nor mutant superiority; merely to protect and strengthen the interests of The Mutant Nation,” says writer Si Spurrier, in an interview with Marvel.com. “And they’ll rain thunder and flame on anyone who says different.”
In this game of no-holds barred, superhuman black-ops, it’s kill or be killed. And with veteran X-Man Cable at the helm, Psylocke, Fantomex, Marrow and more are going to ensure that Mutants have a stake in the future of the Marvel Universe – by any means necessary!
MARROW? Man, there's a name from the past. Not one I've especially missed, to tell you the truth.
Art by TAN ENG HUAT
Cover by MIKE DEL MUNDO
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$2.99
“FOR WE ARE MANY” CONCLUSION!
• Collapsing under the weight of his dead father’ disappointment, Legion’s god-like powers spiral out of control, leaving the fate of mutantkind in the balance. To what ends will Legion go to save the world from himself?
• This is it. This is the end. Anything can happen…
It's about time that hippie got a haircut!
VALIANT
ETERNAL WARRIOR #6
Art by ROBERT GILL
Cover by LEWIS LAROSA
Variant Cover by DIEGO BERNARD
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
"ETERNAL EMPEROR" – PART 2
Long live the Eternal Emperor!
The first glimpse into the Valiant Universe in the year 4001 continues here! The Eternal Emperor rules over a blighted landscape, the last hope of a desperate band of survivors. When an enigmatic force appears and threatens to destroy the last remnants of his people, he faces a horrific choice: travel an irradiated landscape in search to kidnap an innocent, or see his people destroyed. Welcome to the Valiant Universe of 4001.
HARBINGER #21
Art & Cover by CLAYTON HENRY
Interlocking Variant by ZACHARY MONTOYA
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
"RESISTANCE" – PART 2
“Resistance” ratchets up the stakes! Peter and the Renegades wanted information to be free, but now they’re about to pay a very steep price.
Once again, the Renegades are on the run with the combined forces of the Harbinger Foundation and Project Rising Spirit closing in on all sides. This time, however, the team’s newest member, Ax, has left a trail of leaked classified information that could could win the day – but also put the few loved ones they have into dire peril. And now the moment has come when they must choose between their fate and their families …
Frankly, I figured the hook-up in the preview below to be inevitable. I'm also guessing, given how immature Torque is, and the nature of his powers, that it will turn out poorly.
OTHER PUBLISHERS
As mentioned above, there's obviously less manga than usual this week. While the output from Random House and Viz has remained steady, St. Martin's Books is absent this week, and Hachette has been absent the last two weeks. I hope that's just an oddity of the schedule, and not a harbinger of another manga collapse.
ACCELERATORS #5
(W) R.F.I. Porto
(A) Gavin Smith
(CA) Walter Flanagan
$3.99
As the nightmarish Time Games hurtle toward their deadly climax, our time-traveling heroes realize that their entire adventure may be part of a larger plan. Someone has been meddling with the past, and nothing has been left to chance. Now, all roads lead to the future. Will they escape in time?
Blue Juice Comics is part of Blue Juice Films, and this book is written by a screenwriter. Is it a movie pitch in disguise? Probably. But if it's a good story, I don't care about its provenance.
(W) Mark Morris
(A) Ken Bald & Various
$64.99
Daring and supernatural tales featuring issues #7-12 (March 1953 to January 1954) of the ACG classic Out Of The Night. Limited to only 300 slipcased copies.
ADVENTURE TIME VOL 4 TP
Publisher: BOOM ENTERTAINMENT
(W) Ryan North
(A) Shelli Paroline, Braden Lamb
(CA) Drew Weing
$14.99
Join best pals Jake the Dog, Finn the Human, and... the ICE KING?! It's a DUNGEON BROVENTURE as this crazy trio jumps into a game of danger of feelings! Will the treasure at the end be worth all the crazy emotions, or have Finn and Jake finally found a quest they won't be able to finish?
They keep releasing these slipcase editions after I've already bought the regular books. Bah!
(W) Ryan North
(A) Shelli Paroline, Braden Lamb
(CA) Drew Weing
Join best pals Jake the Dog, Finn the Human, and... the ICE KING?! It's a DUNGEON BROVENTURE as this crazy trio jumps into a game of danger of feelings! Will the treasure at the end be worth all the crazy emotions, or have Finn and Jake finally found a quest they won't be able to finish?
ALL NEW SOULFIRE #3
(W) J. T. Krul, Frank Mastromauro
(A) V Kenneth Marion, Mark Roslan
(CA) V Kenneth Marion
$3.99
As Grace continues to experience magic anew in Paris thanks to Vanyss, things between PJ and Alori heat up--this time outside of the arena-and the results could be just as dangerous for both of them. Meanwhile, Malikai drags a reluctant Sonia back to the people of Gabriel's Voice, but she might not have to worry about them treating Malikai like a messiah, because they seem to have found someone else to worship instead.
Join veteran Soulfire scribe JT Krul, along with the amazing artistic talents of V. Ken Marion and Kyle Ritter, as an all-new direction for Michael Turner's fantasy epic Soulfire continues!
(W/A/CA) Yukito Kishiro
$19.99
After years in the Scrapyard beneath the sky city of Tiphares, Alita ascends the orbital elevator into space, where she encounters twisted aliens, Martian warriors, an evil genius with four brains, a transdimensional warrior monk and more bizarre friends and foes in her fight to save her comrade Lou from the worst fate imaginable in this age of nanotech-powered immortality: permanent death. This omnibus includes three volumes of Battle Angel Alita: Last Order in an updated translation, plus 60 pages of short stories never before published in the United States.
This must be where Amy Adams' wardrobe went to die after American Hustle.
(W) Fabien Vehlmann
(A/CA) Kerascoet
$22.95
A dark fairy tale about surviving the human experience. Beautiful Darkness is a harrowing look at the human psyche and the darkness that hides behind the routine politeness and meaningless kindness of civilized society. The sweet faces and bright leaves of Kerascoët's joyful watercolors only serve to highlight the evil that dwells beneath, as characters allow their pettiness, greed, and jealousy to take over. It a bleak allegory on the human condition; Kerascoët's and Fabien Vehlmann's work is a searing condemnation of our vast capacity for evil writ tiny.
(W) Alan Moore
(A/CA) Steve Parkhouse
$14.95
Jobremus Bojeffries is like any other father - trying to keep the peace in a house stuffed with two kids (Ginda and Reth), uncles Raoul and Festus, a baby and old Grandpa Podlasp. Never mind that one's a werewolf, one's a vampire, Grandpa is in the last stages of organic matter, and the baby puts off enough thermonuclear energy to power England and Wales. All right, they're no ordinary family. And this is no ordinary book, with stories spanning decades, a whole chapter written as light opera, a Christmas episode, and an all-new 24-page comic bringing the Bojeffries up to the present day. On every page, the wry and anarchic creativity of the creators shines through: Alan Moore's affectionate and penetrating grasp of human nature (and British culture) creates a kind of desperate poignancy in the characters, brought to memorable life by Steve Parkhouse's deft and articulate line work. It's all there, untutored, unpolished, ramshackle and always on the edge of collapse.
I seem to remember eagerly buying this when it was first reprinted in the U.S. decades ago, and being terribly disappointed. But I was young enough at the time to take Judge Dredd at face value, so maybe the wisdom I've gained since would allow me to enjoy this more. I mean, it's Alan Moore! But I think I'll borrow a copy instead of buying one.
(W) Joey Comeau
(A) Mike Holmes
(CA) Tyson Hesse
$14.99
The Miss Teen Multiverse Pageant is under attack and the brains of the contestants are going MISSING! It's up to the Bravest Warriors, to not only infiltrate the pageant, but give a major lesson of righteous punches to the bad guys! Will our heroes be able to save the Pageant?
(W/A/CA) Rob Durham
Rob provides this great cover featuring Meriem and some very unfriendly gigantic black widow spiders! Limited to only 495 copies, each book is bagged and boarded and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity!
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOBS!
(W) Daniel Way
(A) Emiliano Urinola
(CA) Rafael Ortiz
$3.99
DANIEL WAY's tale of horror at sea continues as the coast guard crew's plan to start a new life on a remote island continues to develop. But something is rotten on board the ship and the more the Captain tries to cut it out, the more his control starts to decompose. Crossed C-Day 2014 is coming and the best way to prepare for the annual horror is to read as much Crossed: Badlands as possible! Available with Regular cover by Fernando Heinz, Wraparound and Torture covers by Rafa Ortiz and special Red Crossed Incentive cover.
(W) Monty Nero
(A/CA) Michael Dowling
$3.99
Monty and Verity develop new powers, the like of which the world has never seen - and Weasel is caught in the middle. The battle for London rages, and its repercussions are felt around the globe. Does Verity's future promise only chaos and death, or could she find a cure? Death Sentence ramps up towards the epic conclusion of the first story. And no one is safe.
The problem with covers like this is that it can cause the male mind to suddenly freez
(W) Brendan Deneen
(A/CA) Szymon Kudranski
$3.99
Check out the book that has been praised by Robert Kirkman, Geoff Johns, and Brian K. Vaughn! This R-rated noir tale tells the story of a cop who gets pulled into a world of secrets, sin, and superheroes! Featuring art by Spawn artist Szymon Kudranksi and a script by Flash Gordon scribe Brendan Deneen!
(W) Vince Hernandez
(A/CA) Jordan Gunderson
$3.99
Assassins reaches the end...
The epic finale to "Blood Origin" reveals the true sacrifice required by Daffodil to forge the first Executive Assistant Academy! When the odds of success turn bleak-and deadly--she must decide whether her choice to painstakingly continue on with her enterprise, or risk losing everything-including her life! Don't miss this pulse-pounding conclusion that is essential canon in the Executive Assistant Universe!
(W) Chuck Dixon & Various
(A) Glen Ostrander & Various
(CA) Steve Becker
$3.99
FUBAR goes way back to ancient times in this one-shot filled with 44 pages of zombie-stabbing action. From the road to Rome to the walled city of Troy, nothing is sacred as the undead come face to face with famous warriors from antiquity who fight for survival and the glory of the empire! New to FUBAR? This one-shot is a great place to jump on board!
e up. Wait, where am I?
Oh, we're already at FUBAR. I seem to have lost some time. Anyway, I had one question reading this blurb: If there was a zombie apocalypse in Roman times, why didn't history kinda stop there?
(W) Raven Gregory
(A) Luca Claretti
(CA) Mike Krome
$15.99
Death is a natural part of life but what happens when it goes rogue? A new horror enters the Grimm Universe and it's one whose name is spoken in hushed tones and fearful whispers. Keres, the Goddess of the Death, will wreak havoc on an unsuspecting Earth, and one family man will feel the effects more than any other. ... When death arrives at the door, there is NO TOMORROW!
(W) Patrick Shand
(A) Larry Watts
(CA) Ken Lashley
$5.99
After losing everything that she has ever cared about, Robyn is attempting to build a new life. Hoping to fill the void in her life by helping others, she takes a dangerous mission from the Realm Knights that brings her into conflict with an old foe... Avella. But with Avella working for the Dark Horde, will Robyn be strong enough to fight the evil collective that she is one day destined to join?
Learn what's coming next for ROBYN HOOD!
Robyn Hood vs. Cinderella - need we say more?
There is more boob acreage on these covers per square inch than in an all-girl Catholic school. I like boobs as much as the next guy -- seriously, who doesn't like boobs? -- but we can only hope that there are actual personalities (and an actual story) attached to them. And the cheesecakiness on display here is not encouraging in that regard.
(W) Raven Gregory
(A) Abhishek Malsuni
(CA) Chris Ehnot
$3.99
With Violet lost to the realm of Wonderland, Calie finds herself at deaths door as the madder hatter stands only moments away from snuffing out her life. But when she receives a visit from the last remaining of the original keepers, LOVE, Alice Liddle herself, she will come to realize that there are some destiny's that cannot be escaped and that running from wonderland may no longer be a option. The cannot missed first issue of the story arc that will change the world of wonderland as you know it begins here!!!
(W) Patrick Shand
(A) TBD
(CA) Anthony Spay
$3.99
There had long been an uneasy peace between the various Queens of the realm of wonderland. But with the arrival of Keres, the death card and Ace of spades, it is a peace that will not last. Vying for control of the realm of madness each has been brought to this place of insanity for unknown reasons. But now those reasons will stand revealed and the madness of wonderland will threaten to engulf them all in a battle that will only end in a battle of the ... clash of the queens.
AGE OF DARKNESS TIE IN.
Featuring the origin of the all new Queen of Clubs.
That's another chick-fight in the GFT books this month. I guess some genius figured out that two girls fighting doubles the number of boobs per panel.
GOD IS DEAD #2
(W) Jonathan Hickman
(A) Di Amorim
(CA) Jacen Burrows
Cover: Jacen Burrows
$3.99
That looks like Thor on this cover, which is another example -- as I've mentioned elsewhere -- of comic-book mythology replacing actual mythology. You'll note Thor is depicted on this cover as a blond, as he is in the comics, not as a redhead, as he was in the Elder Eddas. This is more Jack Kirby's Thor than Snorri Sturluson's, and if my understanding of tort law is accurate, Marvel could actually sue this version of Thor off the market, if it chose to punch down that far.
(W/A/CA) Fred Perry
$3.99
Britanny and her family head to New York to visit her childhood friend, Danielle "Avenger" Carter, who's been dying to meet Tifanny. When they arrive, they find Dani's apartment trashed and Dani abducted by the nightmarish supervillain, the Green Pumpkin. Leaving Tif' with Auntie Gina, Brit' and Stryyp set off to show the Pumpkin a real nightmare scenario!
(W) Mike Wolfer
(A/CA) Gabriel Rearte
$3.99
The next gut-wrenching chapter in the life of William Gravel, Combat Magician has begun! Locked away in military prison since the destruction of the Major Seven, Gravel has been content with having all of his needs met by the British Army, even though a man with his supernatural abilities could never really be contained. Life has been good. Until today. A horrifying terrorist threat has struck the heart of Tokyo, a rogue Combat Magician, driven mad by the magic he wields, and a former trainee of Gravel. Available with a Regular cover by artist Gabriel Rearte, Wraparound, Horror and a Black Magic Order Incentive cover by Wolfer.
(A) Rudy Palais & Various
$119.99
Launched in the 1950s, we've collected together the Black Cat Mystery titles here for the first time in their entirety for this unique 4-volume collection. This volume features an exclusive introduction from a leading author, plus a profile of one of the genre's leading artists, Joe Certa, along with examples of his original work. Collects issues #42-47 (February 1953 to December 1953) and is limited to just 300 slipcased copies each with a signed and numbered certificate by the foreword author.
(W) Pete Von
(A) Bob Powell & Various
$119.99
Volume Three collects issues #12-16 (November 1953 to July 1954) and exclusively features a special introduction from Pete Von Sholly and profiles one of the genre's leading artists, Abe Simon, plus examples of his original artwork. Limited to only 300 slipcased copies.
(W/A) Nathan Fox
(CA) Bengal
$3.99
In this final issue, get ready for fastpaced, madcap action as a savant mechanical genius is chased by a cabal of corporate gangsters who are after her hightech secret weapon designs! Featuring a story and art by Nathan Fox (DMZ) and a cover by Bengal!
I read the series that gave the background on the Hawken videogame universe, and found it utterly boring. I don't recall which publisher did that series, but nevertheless the stench of FAIL follows the property for me, so I'm not reading this.
$3.99
Out of the nihilist inkwell and printed in poison! Meet the finest in new cosmic horror! Face melters from: Max Clotfelter (Henry & Glenn Forever), Alex Delaney, Eamon Espey (Wormdye and Songs of The Abyss), Noel Freibert, Sammy Harkham (The Simpsons' Tree House of Horror, Kramers Ergotand Everything Together), Juliacks, Jason T. Miles, Scott Roller, Matthew Thurber (1-800 Mice and Infomaniacs), and Zach Hazard Vaupen.
(W) Bruce Jones
(A/CA) Leonardo Manco
$3.99
Duran's world implodes as he struggles to come to terms with the events of the previous issue. Additionally, his already shaky partnership with Beckett takes a turn for the worse ...
What do you suppose Duran's last name is? Could it be ... Duran?!?? If not, it should be.
(W/A/CA) Tsutomu Nihei
$12.95
One of the manga world's most intriguing artists returns with a science-fiction tour de force which combines post apocolyptic action, modern sci-fi video game tropes and a traditional Japanese aesthetic in The Knights of Sidonia. Nagate Tanikaze was a homeless teen living in the depths of a space colony with a thing for simulation games and stealing rice. Now he is the lead fighter pilot protecting said space colony from a race of shape-shifting space giants!
(W) Charles Soule
(A/CA) Alberto Alburquerque
$3.99
The crew of the Clarke has their first real encounter with the alien technology being built in the asteroid belt, while back on Earth, President Blades discovers the truth behind the brutal attack on his closest advisor, and unseen forces continue to move against him.
I keep meaning to sample this, but it's coming out so sporadically I keep missing it. There's some kind of lesson in there for publishers, I think.
(W/A/CA) Tove Jansson
$9.95
Moomin's tail gets its fifteen minutes of fame! One day Moomin notices that his tail seems to be thinning. Worried that Snorkmaiden will no longer love him if his tail goes bald, he consults the family doctor and several tail specialists, and even gets an X-ray. Nothing helps! Finally Moominmamma cooks up a magic potion, and it works like a charm, but now Moomin's lustrous new tail is, well, solid gold! Moomin becomes the toast of society, and the target of numerous journalists and money-making schemes. Moomin and the Golden Tail takes a long hard look at the consequences of fame.
This is French comics, I presume for children.
(W/A/CA) Tove Jansson
$9.95
The Moomins picnic with their ancestors, a pair of pirates, and, best of all, Mymble! Another classic Moomin story reworked in full color, with a kid-proof but kid-friendly size, price, and format. After a disastrous helicopter ride through a thunderstorm, the entire Moomin family is stranded on a desert island-the very island their ancestors came from! They make the best of it, hunting for their supper, exploring mysterious tunnels, and salvaging items from a wrecked pirate ship (including the Mymble!), but their ancestors don't let them live in peace and quiet for too long. Soon the whole island will have to deal with the explosive consequences of their ancestors' misbehavior.
(W) Kevin Freeman, Dave Dwonch
(A) Various
(CA) Jeremy Dale
$19.95
Collecting the first story arc of the hit NickToons television series! See Ish Taylor and the NFL Guardians as they battle villains and robots of all sorts in an effort to protect the NFL and its fans. Packed with appearances from a number of NFL superstars, including Roddy White, Philip Rivers, and Calvin Johnson!
I can't think of anything more boring than football comics, but then, I find actual football kinda boring. Maybe this is just the thing NFL fans have been looking for, and if so, good for them. *shrug*
(W) Michael Alan Nelson
(A) Mariano Navarro
(CA) Stéphane Roux
$3.99
Black Friday has been set in motion, and our Orphans have been given their burn notices. Now, as rogue fugitives of their own clandestine black ops organization, the team must take the fight back to the place that started it all...the Playground.
I don't have anything to say about this book, but I just thought of something more boring than football comics: golf comics! Someone get to work on that!
(W/A/CA) Terry Moore
$3.99
"The snowfall in Manson is a body count," said Lilith. Now the little town of Manson is in complete whiteout as the mother of all witches exacts her terrible revenge. Try as she might, there's only so much Rachel can do to stop it without the help of a little girl named Bryn Erin. Don't miss the newest chapter in Terry Moore's acclaimed horror series!
Has this been running behind, Rachel Rising fans? I don't recall a recent issue, but it's up to #23, so it must be going strong. This is another book I keep meaning to try, and just haven't stumbled across one while at my LCS.
(W/A) Madeline Rupert
(CA) Katie Shanahan, Madeline Rupert
$3.99
Skips and time-agent Ted are doing everything in their power to keep Mordecai and Rigby from destryoing the world, But even with Ted's cool time-equipment...will it ever ve enough? It's a matter of counting down in this latest issue...will Skips finally get some time to enjoy nature? Will Mordecai ever learn how to catch a football? Things might finally be going to plan but all it takes is one wrong step for the day to start over AGAIN.
(W) Joe Harris
(A/CA) Piotr Kowalski
$3.99
WHY WE LOVE IT: With the release of RoboCop, a re-of the all-classic,
fans of the new and old will be immersed in the action, oppression and humanity that is
RoboCop. We cannot wait to be first in line for this new motion picture event!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT: Four anthology-one-exploring the world of the new
film, brought to you by some of the freshest voices in the industry -Joe Harris (GREAT
PACIFIC), Frank Barbiere (FIVE GHOSTS), Ed Brisson (SHELTERED), and Michael Moreci
(HOAX HUNTERS).
WHAT IT'S ABOUT: RoboCop is too good at his job. While the people love him, his
ability to find and remove corruption puts fear into the corporate heads and government
leaders.
With OCP at the wheel, they will do their best to steer him away from the powerful corrupt
leaders, and keep him on the lower-criminals. But some crimes cannot go unpunished.
I always wonder why Robocop doesn't make any effort to protect his chin, which looks human. Maybe it's not, and just painted that way.
BTW, IDW is also publishing Robocop comics. Somehow.
(W) Michael T. Gilbert
(A) Nick Cardy & Various
$49.99
A third big helping of interstellar shenanigans. Hey, if only space travel really was like this...! Collects Fiction House's Planet Comics issues #9-12, September 1940 to May 1941.
My wife and I spent a good half hour making up our own dialogue for "Spurt Hammond," one of the strips in this series. I mean, "Spurt"? I'm guessing he doesn't get very many second dates. And, just to make it easy, in the episode where we were ridiculing "Spurt," he was fighting Amazons on the moon named, honest to Wonder Woman, Lunazons.
Our suggested dialogue wasn't printable, but trust me, we laughed till it hurt.
(W/A/CA) Mitsuru Hattori
$10.99
The hotel where she first met Chihiro is burning around her, but Rea's strangely glowing eyes are fixed on the boy she loves. Will she come to her senses before she eats Chihiro or the fire consumes them both? And even if they do escape, what can Rea do to keep herself from completely losing her reason and becoming nothing but a zombie hungry for Chihiro's flesh?
If I were Chichiro, the "hungry for flesh" thing would be a deal-breaker.
SHAHRAZAD #3
(W) Tom Hutchison
(A) Mike Krome
(CA) Mike Krome, J. Scott Campbell
$3.50
It seems the world itself is out for Shahrazad's head, but there is one who finds her life intriguing, if not impossible. Janus sends Shahrazad to the arena to see if he can create an ending for this woman who's future is impossible to see.
Is it me, or are those some pretty sizable thighs for a comic-book heroine? She could crack walnuts with those beasts.
(W) Cullen Bunn
(A/CA) Brian Hurtt
$3.99
The town of Brimstone is under siege by the forces of darkness, and Becky, Drake, and their allies are caught in the middle. In the midst of the chaos, Asher Cobb goes berserk! And not all of our heroes will not survive the night. We've always said that no one is safe. This issue proves it!
(W) Christopher Golden
(A) Damian Coueciro
(CA) Garry Brown
$3.99
Now an ongoing series! this is it, the thrilling conclusion of the first arc! The Sons of Anarchy have nowhere to run, and the Ghost Brothers hae every upper hand. With the very status of the club at stake, and the memory of his dead daughter still achingly fresh, Tig must find a way to protect Kendra and protect the club...but for once, those aims may be at odds.
(W) Stephen Bisette & Various
$2.99
United Plankton finally cashes in on the trend that's sweeping comics - science stories starring sea-dwelling squirrels! That's right! It's a whole issue starring Sandy Cheeks, SpongeBob's Texas twangin' rodent pal, who's an athlete and a lady scientist t'boot! See Sandy save Bikini Bottom from the horror of the gargantuan Aqua Chimp! Gasp as she goes paw-to-tentacle against Plankton in an invention showdown! Scratch your head as you try to comprehend what her oddest invention has done to SpongeBob's holes! And quake in fear as she discoveres the source of that awful noise coming from deep within an unexplored trench! All this, plus ocean facts about squirrels!
(W) Erik W. Hendrix, Sean O'Reilly
(A/CA) Yannis Roumboulias
$3.99
It's Armageddon as the Munchkins face off against the twins daughters of the Wicked Witch of the West! Can they, along with their allies, the Tin Man, Victoria, and the Lions defeat the Geared Leviathan and the magical might of the twins?
I've been waiting to see what a Steampunk Tin Man would look like. Formidable, I imagine.
(W) Mike Wolfer
(A/CA) Fernando Heinz Furukawa
$3.99
The horrific final issue! In the explosive conclusion of the "Seven Swords" storyline, all-out war erupts between Tokyo's yakuza clan and the undead strike force of Stitched! Kenji Nakamura's quest for revenge hits a shattering roadblock as allies become enemies, sacred trusts are violated, and deadly deceptions are revealed. Now, the man who once commanded the supernaturally-charged assassins must fight for his life against the yakuza targets and the Stitched themselves! But the vicious, rotting creatures of destruction are about to be confronted by an unstoppable force which they have never before encountered, one which could doom every participant in the horrific battle to a shrieking, violent death! Available with Regular, Wraparound, Gore and retailer Ancient Evil covers all be series artist Fernando Heinz.
If Stitched and Crossed had a crossover, would we all just spontaneously vomit at the same time?
(W) Grace Randolph
(A) Russell Dauterman
(CA) Stéphane Roux
$14.99
After the harrowing events surrounding the death of journalist Hayley Harper, the Meta Legion and their families embark on a much-needed vacation. But when some heroes start mixing business with pleasure, will it threaten to put the whole team at risk?
From rising star writer Grace Randolph (Marvel's NATION X, HER-OES) and hot new talent Russell Dauterman, GRACE RANDOLPH'S SUPURBIA is a unique new twist on the superhero genre that takes scandalous, TMZ-fueled look at what it's like to live with a superhero.
Collecting the critically acclaimed third arc, join Eve, Batu, Jeremy, Zari, and Sara, as all hell breaks loose at the Galactic Protection & Systems Expo and Hector Hunt exacts his revenge on the Meta Legion from behind bars!
It's sad, but I identify with the middle-age, retired superheroes now.
(A/CA) George Wunder
$60.00
After Milt Caniff left Terry and the Pirates in 1946 to create Steve Canyon he was succeeded by George Wunder. Under Wunder's stewardship the strip continued for another quarter century. Wunder's Terry and The Pirates is brought back to life in this important new reprint. This historic title presented in a deluxe hardcover landscape format, which includes the daily and Sunday strips (reproduced in full color) which ran in continuity.
I have all the Caniff Terry collections, but have never read them. I bought them because Caniff is this Mt. Rushmore sort of figure in comic-strip history, and a whole generation of comic-book artists worshiped at his altar. But honestly, I find his art a bit on the ugly side and couldn't get into them. Makes me a heretic, I guess.
(W/A/CA) Mizuki Sakakibara
$9.99
The heroes face down the deranged NEXT killer Lunatic. Lunatic's vigilantism has the city on edge, and the heroes find themselves having to convince everyone that NEXT are working for the good of Stern Bild City. Lunatic is in the wrong, but there is much more to the madman than anyone knows ...
(W/A/CA) Lilli Carre
$12.95
When Tippy wakes up, there's a peacock in her bedroom, a bird in her hair, and mice dancing on the headboard. Yet all Tippy remembers is falling asleep! In her first book for children, award-winning cartoonist Lilli Carré takes Tippy on a nocturnal adventure up a mountain, down a hole, and back home again.
(W) John Wagner, Alan Grant
(A) Steve Dillon, Carlos Ezquerra
$19.99
Another bumper crop of cases for Dredd in this action-packed volume, collecting together some of the very best in 2000 AD thrills! Stories include the full-blooded horror of Cry of The Werewolf, illustrated by comics legend Steve Dillon (Preacher) and the return of the fatties in Requiem For A Heavyweight, illustrated by Dredd co-creator Carlos Ezquerra.
I have the first six volumes, but have only read the first three. I feel I MUST read the entire Judge Dredd canon to call myself Captain Comics, but sometimes it's tough sledding. It's not the quality of writing or art that's the problem, it's the pacing -- these stories were originally presented in small increments weekly, resulting in a choppy rhythm to us Yanks, accustomed as we are to monthly fare. I'll get this one and add it to the pile.
(W) Harry Kalensky & Various
(A/CA) Dave Casey
$14.95
The future. Canada and the United States have amalgamated. Dissatisfied, the people turn to rebellion. The government responds with a covert security force: S.H.A.D.O. (the Strategic Home Alliance Defense Organization). Their mission: Eliminate all rebel activity using deadly force if necessary. USNA: The people's battle against tyranny will be fought in our own backyard.
The U.S. and Canada should never merge, because I cannot imagine being that cruel to anyone, much less Canadians. They're so nice!
Thanks for the Invisibles shout-out, Cap. Mark Sullivan led the discussion on all three volumes of The Invisibles starting here.
Tove Jansson was from Finland and belonged to its Swedish-speaking minority. Her characters, the Moomins, initially appeared in children's books and are well-known internationally. The first book in the series appeared in 1945. Apparently that one wasn't translated into English until ten years ago, but the others were widely available here in Australia in the 70s in their British editions. I read one of the picture books as a kid, and one of the novels a few years ago. I can't say the novel has stayed with me, and I don't know how it would have struck me if I'd read it when I was young.
The stories of the two books listed above are from a newspaper strip that was distributed by a British syndicate. More information about this can be found here. Previews can be found at Drawn and Quarterly's website. The stories are from the 1950s and have been coloured. The publisher has previously collected the strip in several volumes.
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
of 4 Next