THE BIG STUFF
Fantastic Four #33
Marvel Comics | 32 pages | Teen | $3.99
Writer: Dan Slott | Art: R.B. Silva | Cover: Mark Brooks | Deadpool 30th Anniversary variant: Rob Liefeld | Spider-Man Villains variant: Dike Ruan
This June, writer Dan Slott and artist R.B. Silva invite readers to attend the nuptials of Victor Von Doom and his most devoted and noble subject, Victorious in FANTASTIC FOUR #33. The second chapter in the upcoming “BRIDE OF DOOM” arc, FANTASTIC FOUR #33 will feature guest stars galore such as Prince Namor and Black Panther and pack a gut punch of an ending that no one will see coming. Just in time for the 60th anniversary of Marvel’s First Family, “THE BRIDE OF DOOM” arc is just the latest thrill ride in Slott and Silva’s masterful run on Fantastic Four and promises to be the next iconic story in the Fantastic Four mythos.
The Captain's comments: I can't believe Victor has finally found a girl whose skin he didn't want to flay off and turn into enchanted armor. Who is she, really? I'm calling "Murder Robot" right now!
Jupiter's Legacy: Requiem #1 (of 12)
Image Comics | $5.99
Writer: Mark Millar | Art/Cover A: Tommy Lee Edwards | Cover B: Frank Quitely | Cover C: Quitely B&W | Cover D: Jock | Cover E: Netflix Season 1 variant | Cover F: Ozgur Yildirim | Cover G Blank cover | Cover H: 1:10 Silver Foil retailer incentive variant | Cover I: Gold Foil retailer thanks variant
In Jupiter’s Legacy: Requiem, Chloe and Hutch have gotten married and had more children. The superheroes are working in harmony with humanity and creating a perfect world. But all is not well in the Garden of Eden as the Sampson family gets ripped apart and the secrets of the Netflix show's mysterious island begin to be revealed.
The Captain's comments: Well, at least we comics fans will know how Jupiter's Legacy will end. As most people reading this probably know, Jupiter's Legacy on Netflix was canceled after one season. Due to most of that season mostly being an invented-for-the-show prequel to the events of the first Jupiter's Legacy miniseries, viewers never got to see the Big Twist in Jupiter's Legacy #3 that set the stage for the main story, which is about The Utopian's children (and not The Utopian himself).
Madman Library Edition Vol 1 HC
Dark Horse | 680 pages | Age range: 14 | $99.99
Writer/Art/Cover: Michael Allred | Colors: Laura Allred, Han Allred
From Madman’s first appearance through his mysterious origins to his adventures throughout time, space and pop-art absurdity; follow Frank Einstein’s superhero alter ego Madman as he adventures through Snap City and encounters many timeless characters and villains in this true homage to superhero fiction, metaphysical philosophy, 1950s science fiction films, pop music, and much more in this true humorous and heartfelt comic book classic!
The Madman universe library edition series collects all of Allred’s award-winning Madman comics (a.k.a. the “Madmaniverse") in selected reading order for the ultimate Madman fan! This 680-page volume collects Madman’s adventures from 1990 to 1996, reprinting “For the Record,” Madman (original series) #1-3, Madman Adventures #1-3, and Madman Comics #1-10, bonus pinups by some of comics’ greatest talent like Frank Miller, Jack Kirby, Moebius and more; and featuring THEY! — Allred’s never-before-published first effort to make comics!
The Captain's comments: I was initially excited to see this listing, because I enjoy almost everything Mike Allred does, and Madman is his purest, Allred-iest creation. But because of the character's spotty appearances, I have a less-than-comprehensive Madman collection.
But then I saw the price. Yikes! Well, if I can buy random Marvel omnibuses like All-New Wolverine Omnibus or Star Wars: Doctor Aphra Omnibus, I guess I can pony up for this, too. Come to think of it, I'll probably enjoy it more than some of those Marvel books anyway.
Static Season #1 (of 6)
DC Comics | $3.99
Writer: Vita Ayala| Art: ChrisCross, Nikolas Draper-Ivey | Cover: Khary Randolph
Bullied nerd Virgil is gifted with incredible electromagnetic powers in the wake of the Big Bang. Now he finds himself caught between an over-militarized police response to Black kids getting special abilities and some of those kids who are using those powers in dangerous and destructive ways. But when the bullies who terrorized him before the Big Bang show up with powers of their own, can Static be the hero that Dakota needs?
The Captain's comments: This first appeared as a digital comic, and is now being serialized in print. Virgil is a great character, and I look forward to this (which I will trade-wait).
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow #1 (of 8)
DC Comics | $4.99
Writer: Tom King | Cover A/Art: Bilquis Evely, Mat Lopes | Variant: Gary Frank, Alex Sinclair
Supergirl returns to DC’s comics this summer to headline her first new series in years: Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow! Launching in DC’s Infinite Frontier era with art by Bilquis Evely and Mat Lopes, written by Tom King, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow takes Supergirl — and sidekick Krypto — into space on a journey that will have Supergirl fans cheering for more!
Kara Zor-El has seen some epic adventures over the years, but has recently found her life without meaning or purpose. Here she is, a young woman who saw her planet destroyed and was sent to Earth to protect a baby cousin who ended up not needing her. What was it all for? Wherever she goes, people only see her through the lens of Superman’s fame.
Just when Supergirl thinks she’s had enough, everything changes. An alien girl seeks her out for a vicious mission: her world has been destroyed and the bad guys responsible are still out there. She wants revenge and if Supergirl doesn’t help her, she’ll do it herself, whatever the cost.
The Captain's comments: How many writers have taken a stab at defining Supergirl apart from her cousin? Plenty, and none of their takes have done anything for me. Stop-and-go powers Supergirl, Earth Angel Supergirl, angry-hothead-who's-stronger-than-Superman Supergirl ... none of them stuck.
I hope Tom King can do better, because I really want to like Supergirl. She's been around as long as I have — she was created the same year I was born — and is still pretty much a cipher. Let's go, already!
Krypto co-stars, so Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow has that going for it, anyway. He's a very good boy.
The World of Black Hammer Library Edition Vol 3 HC
Dark Horse | 248 pages | Age Range: 14 | $49.99
Writers: Jeff Lemire, Tate Brombal | Art: Tyler Crook, Gabriel Hernandez Walta | Colors: Tyler Crook, Jordie Bellaire | Cover: Dean Ormston
In Colonel Weird: Cosmagog, sanity-challenged space adventurer Colonel Weird embarks on a strange journey through space and time for something that he’s long forgotten with his sanity and life at stake!
In Barbalien: Red Planet, the shape-shifting superhero Barbalien struggles to find his place in the world during the AIDS crisis — something made all the more difficult when a Martian enemy from the past follows him to earth to take him back, dead or alive.
The Captain's comments: I really enjoy Black Hammer, probably for the same reason I like Compass: It takes aging genre tropes and re-invigorates them with a modern sensibility. It's clear that Jeff Lemire loves the same old comic books I do, and Black Hammer works as both a nostalgic homage and an engaging new universe.
So, yes, I've been getting all Black Hammer library editions, and here's another one. Can't wait!
PRE-READ FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
Black Terror: The Dark Years TPB
Dynamite | 136 pages | Teen+ | $19.99
Writer: Max Bemis | Art: Matt Gaudio, Ruairi Coleman | Cover: Rahzzah
Bob Benton has settled into his "boring" life of being a pharmacist. A daily routine, a co-worker he has a crush on ... these are the things that keep him happy. But creeping below the surface are his memories of being a hero. Struggling against his urges to fight crime, he is suddenly sent down a path he thought he had left behind, wanting ... needing to be a vigilante, ready to once again punch crime in the face and become the Black Terror! Includes issues #1-5 of Black Terror (2019).
The Captain's comments: I read this on a whim, as I haven't kept up with the Project Superpowers universe (if such it is). It was an odd experience. Despite all the stories being written by the same guy, they don't really connect — they're all independent stories involving the same character at different times in his post-Pandora's Urn life. I mean, the first story set up a gigantic, evil organization founded by one of Black Terror's Golden Age enemies that you'd think would become the basis for all future stories, and ... it was never mentioned again. Did the writer forget about it? Did Terror break it up off-panel?
I think I enjoyed this. I'm on the fence. Although I will say it had a shock ending I did not see coming. Presumably what that set-up will be the status quo of the character going forward ... unless the writer forgets about it, I guess.
Compass #1 (of 5)
Image Comics | $3.99
Writers: Robert Mackenzie, Dave Walker | Art/Cover: Justin Greenwood
In Compass, readers meet Shahidah El-Amin, a main character who is many things: scholar, cartographer, astronomer, mathematician, scientist, explorer, adventurer, and — when need be — two-fisted fighter. Setting out from Baghdad's legendary House of Wisdom during the Islamic Golden Age, Shahi's quest brings her to 13th-century Britain … where the Welsh are whispered to possess the secret of eternal life. But Shahi's not the only one after it …
The Captain's comments: I enjoyed the heck out of this book, mainly for all the historical accuracy.
It opens in 1242 CE in Wales, which at the time the last civilization — the Abbiyad Caliphate in Baghdad — considered to be barbarian lands. I say "last civilization" because the only other one we know about, the Chinese Jin Dynasty, had fallen to the Mongols, who were barbarians as well. The Song Dynasty would fall in the 1270s, and the same fate awaited Baghdad even earlier. It would take hundreds of years, the Renaissance and Isaac Newton to re-create what the Arab scholars of the House of Wisdom were exploring in the 13th century, all lost when the Mongols burned the place down in 1258.
Our protagonist is a sort of Indiana Jones for the House of Wisdom, albeit she is a 13th century Arabic woman instead of a 20th century American man. Her antagonist (and former lifelong friend, we're told) is much the same for whichever Khan it is, becoming a sort of Belloq, I guess.
These comparisons are apt, because Compass simply revels in its pulpish adventure roots, much as Raiders of the Lost Ark did. It has that sort of energy, the kind that prompts the Raiders theme to play in your head when our heroine is escaping a trap or battling the Mongols (our Nazi stand-ins).
The art is by the same guy who did Stumptown, where I feel he was better suited. I need a bit more clarity than his gritty, sketchy style allows, because I'm less familiar with ... well pretty much everything, since I don't much about 13th century anything. But he has strong storytelling skills that make up for it.
Norse Mythology II #1 (of 6)
Dark Horse | 24 pages | Age Range: 14+ | $3.99
Writers: Neil Gaiman, P. Craig Russell | Art: Matt Horak | Cover A: P. Craig Russell | Cover B: David Mack
Bestselling and award-winning author Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology adaptation continues at Dark Horse Comics from Eisner winning comics legend P. Craig Russell, along with artists Matt Horak (The Punisher, The Covenant), Mark Buckingham (Hellblazer, Miracleman), Gabriel Walta (Barbalien: Red Planet, Sentient), Sandy Jarrell (Archie, Meteor Men), and colorist Lovern Kindzierski (The Worst Dudes, The Sandman) in Norse Mythology II. Be sure to check out the variant covers for each issue by David Mack.
The Captain's Comments: This volume begins with the myth about the origin of poetry, and like most Norse myths, involves treachery, trickery, murder and more than a little drunkenness. So, you know, it's a Viking party.
I should note that for the first time, the story isn't told entirely in one issue. I don't remember how long the origin of poetry is, since it's been literally decades since I last read Snorri Sturluson's work, but it will run at least two issues, if not all six. But so far we've already seen giants, dark elves*, the Vanir and Odin doing his tricksy "Grey Traveler" thing, plus the entire story of Kvasir.
Adapted by Neil Gaiman, with layouts by P. Craig Russell, it's just wonderful stuff.
* There is some scholarly debate about the nine realms, one involving Swartalfheim. That translates to "Realm of the Dark Elves," which some believe is the same as Nidavellir, land of the dwarves/trolls. In that scenario, Hel is broken out of Niffleheim as the ninth world, Helheim. I mention this, because the art depicts the "dark elves" as trolls. In Marvel Comics, dark elves are depicted as regular elves, except that they are blue-black.
ONGOING EVENTS
BATMAN/FORTNITE: ZERO POINT PART 5
Batman/Fortnite: Zero Point #5 (of 6)
DC Comics | $4.99
Writers: Christos Gage, Donald Mustard | Art: Christian Duce | Cover: Mikel Janín
Batman, Catwoman and the unlikely band of renegade Fortnite fighters make their way deep into the underground complex of the Island in a desperate hunt to escape the Loop — areas never before seen in the game, with secrets discovered only by the World's Greatest Detective. Along the way they'll fight for their lives ... uncover revelations about the history and inner workings of the world of Fortnite ... and face a betrayal from one of their own as our story hurtles toward its explosive conclusion! Each print issue of Batman/Fortnite: Zero Point will include a redeemable code for bonus DC-themed Fortnite digital items, inspired by the events in the comic. Fans who redeem all six codes will also unlock a new Armored Batman Zero Outfit for their Fortnite character.
The Captain's comments: DC didn't send me any PR on this issue like they have been, but here's a preview:
HELLFIRE GALA WEEK 3
New Mutants #19
Marvel | 32 pages | Teen+ | $3.99
Writer: Vita Ayala | Art: Alex Lins | Cover: Martin Simmonds | Dauterman Connecting variant: Russell Dauterman | Rachel Summers Character Design variant: Russell Dauterman | Character Design Variant: Alex Lins
AND I’LL CRY IF I WANT TO …
The HELLFIRE GALA is here, and the NEW MUTANTS have the chance to take a break from training the youth of Krakoa — an opportunity to get dressed up and get down. But not everyone is on their best behavior … and someone has vanished without a trace.
The Captain's comments: The party continues. I enjoyed Kevin Feige's cameo last week (in X-Men #21), and almost every issue provides something of note.
Planet-Size X-Men #1 one-shot
Marvel | 48 pages | Teen+ | $4.99
Writer: Gerry Duggan | Art: Pepe Larraz | Colors: Marte Gracia | Main Cover: Pepe Larraz with colors by Marte Gracia | Variant: Olivier Coipel | Dauterman Connecting variant: Russell Dauterman | Variant: Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson | '90 variant: Ron Lim | Storm Character Design variant: Russell Dauterman | Variant: Pepe Larraz
THE FUTURE OF MUTANTKIND IS REVEALED IN PLANET-SIZE X-MEN #1!
Fifty years ago, Giant-Size X-Men changed our world. This June, Planet-Size X-Men changes our universe.
Planet-Size X-Men will be a pivotal chapter in the X-Men mythos with an epic story that has been built up since the very beginning of Jonathan Hickman’s X-Men era. Omega-level mutants will take center stage and new omega-level mutants will be introduced as Magneto puts the pieces in place for an ambitious plan that will truly change everything …
The Captain's comments: The PR says this book is "absolutely the most important issue of the month," which may or may not be true. But it certainly has a lot of pages to work with, and something is going to happen at this party that will be important. Maybe it happens here.
X-Corp #2Marvel | 32 pages | Teen+ | $3.99
Writer: Tini Howard | Art: Alberto Foche | Cover: David Aja | Dauterman Connecting Variant: Russell Dauterman | Monet Character Design variant: Russell Dauterman | Character Design Variant: Alberto Foche
A SHARK IN THE WATER!
After X-CORP’s shocking debut, they’ve got fences to mend, hands to shake and most importantly – a board to staff. With Dr. Jamie Madrox’s top-class dupes staffing the HELLFIRE GALA, CXOs Monet and Angel must stalk the dance floor and hope they don’t get preyed on themselves.
The Captain's comments: I read the first issue, and Angel is still boring. However, as expected, Monet delivers some world-class snark. She's worth the price of admission.
HEROES REBORN WEEK 7
Heroes Reborn #7 (of 7)
Marvel Comics | 40 pages | Teen+ | $4.99
Writer: Jason Aaron | Art: Aaron Kuder & Ed McGuinness | Cover: Leinil Francis Yu | Variant: Jeffrey Veregge | Action Figure variant: John Tyler Christopher | Trading Card variant: Mark Bagley | Stormbreakers variant: Iban Coello | Triptych: Leinil Francis Yu
And the matchup you’ve been waiting for arrives in HEROES REBORN #7! Together they ended the Kree/Skrull war, defeated Dr. Doom in his Secret War and even endured their own civil war between Hyperion and Nighthawk, but now the Squadron Supreme of America faces their greatest challenge yet: a mysterious new group of troublemakers called the Avengers.
The Captain's comments: See the triptych below? All the Squadronners attacking in one direction? I'll give you a guess as to what they're attacking, and if you say "Avengers," award yourself something.
Heroes Reborn: Weapon X & Final Flight #1 one-shot
Marvel Comics | 40 pages | Teen+ | $4.99
Writer: Ed Brisson | Art: Roland Boschi | Variant: Tony Daniel | Variant: David Yarden
Finally, the Squadron Supreme protects and defends the interests of America but where does that leave a country like Canada? Who will stand up and protect them from the supremacy of the Squadron? Meet WEAPON X & FINAL FLIGHT by Ed Brisson and artist Roland Boschi. They’re the best there is at what they do!
The Captain's comments: As we've seen, if the Squadron really considered this group a threat or a rival, they'd be dead already. I'm curious to see what the actual relationship is.
INFINITE DESTINIES PART 2
Captain America Annual #1
Marvel | Teen+ | $4.99
Writer: Gerry Duggan | Art: Marco Castiello | Cover: Alex Garner | Variant: Travis Charest | Deadpool 30th Anniversary: Rob Liefeld | Connecting variant: Ron Lim
The event continues in CAPTAIN AMERICA ANNUAL #1 by writer Gerry Duggan and artist Marco Castiello. The fugitive known as Overtime broke out of death row when the Time Stone chose to bond with his soul, giving him powers he barely understood. Now, thanks to Captain America ... his time is up.
The Captain's comments: I confess, this pairing of lame D-listers with A-listers in an attempt to make the former interesting isn't doing anything for me. But maybe I'll get the HC collection to add to my Warlock/Thanos shelf.
X-MEN: DEMON DAYS BOOK 2
Demon Days: Mariko #1 one-shot
Marvel Comics | 40 pages | Teen+ | $4.99
Writer/Art/Cover: Peach Momoko | Variant: Mahmud Asrar | Variant: Jen Bartel | Variant: Gurihiru Variant: J. Scott Campbell | Variant: Stan Sakai | Variant: Jeffrey Veregge
In the shadow of Kirisaki Mountain … a secret history comes to light! Mariko Yashida hears mysterious voices and has strange dreams that feel real. Her redheaded maid who dresses all in black might know more than she lets on. What is the connection between Mariko, the creatures called oni, and Kirisaki Mountain? Find out in the next installment of this tale of magic, monsters, and Marvel characters like you’ve never seen them before, all beautifully rendered by Peach Momoko!
The Captain's comments: Each issue of this is a standalone, set in different times with different set-ups. I'm not sure that was clear from the start. The first was set in feudal Japan, and this one takes place in a different era.
PRIDE MONTH VARIANT COVERS
The Mighty Valkyries #3
Pride Month variant featuring Runa: Phil Jimenez
Nightwing #81
Pride variant cover by Travis G. Moore
Star Wars #14
Pride variant by Stephen Byrne
Stillwater #8
Pride Month variant: Gabrielle Kari
Ultramega #4
Pride Month variant: Kris Anka
The Walking Dead Deluxe #17
Pride Month variant: Tillie Walden
STAR WARS: THE WAR OF THE BOUNTY HUNTERS WEEK 7
Star Wars #14
Marvel Comics | 32 pages | Teen | $3.99
Writer: Charles Soule | Art: Ramon Rosanas | Cover: Carlo Pagulayan | Pride Month variant: Stephen Byrne | Action Figure variant: John Tyler Christopher | LucasFilm 50th Anniversary variant: Chris Sprouse
WAR OF THE BOUNTY HUNTERS TIE-IN!
The REBELS finally have a lead on the location of HAN SOLO! It's time to save the captain of the MILLENNIUM FALCON from his frozen carbonite tomb! A general, a Jedi and a Wookiee will mount a desperate rescue mission. ... But they have no idea what actually awaits them.
The Captain's comments: I've already run out of things to say about this 34-part story without, you know, actually reading it. I might get the Omnibus, but I'm passing on the individual issues.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST
Battler Britton: War Picture Library HC
Rebellion/2000 AD | $19.99
Writer: V.A.L. Holding | Art: Hugo Pratt
Two stories of soaring combat as the master of Euro comics, Hugo Pratt, meets the classic comic book air ace who's as skilled a fighter on land as he is in his Spitfire! Reprinted in graphic novel form for the first time, these two fast-paced Battler Britton stories from 1960 - Wagons of Gold and Rockets of Revenge - are drawn by the legendary artist behind Corto Maltese. In this thrilling collection, Britton helps resistance fighters smuggle gold from Nazi occupied Yugoslavia, before escorting a ballistics expert on his mission to analyze an unexploded V2 rocket in Poland!
The Captain's comments: I've enjoyed the Corto Maltese collections published by IDW, and have no doubt I'll enjoy this too. Maybe moreso, since I'm more familiar with the World War II era than I am the early 20th century.
Jim Lives: The Mystery of the Lead Singer of the Doors and the 27 Club TPB
Image Comics | $16.99
Writer: Paolo Baron | Art/Cover: Ernesto Carbonetti
Hot off the heels of the popular release Paul Is Dead, the critically acclaimed Paolo Baron and Ernesto Carbonetti return with Jim Lives: the Mystery of the Lead Singer of The Doors and the 27 Club — an all new original graphic novel that plays with the theory that Jim Morrison never died. This is the second standalone graphic novel in the trilogy and will be out from Image Comics in June 2021.
The Captain's comments: If you haven't heard of "The 27 Club," it's an enormous coincidence, or a conspiracy theory if you're so inclined, regarding the number of famous actors, artists and musicians who have died at age 27. Morrison was found dead of a heroin overdose in his bathtub in Paris at age 27, and others in the "club" include Dave Alexander (The Stooges), Jean-Michel Basquiat (painter, graffiti artist), Chris Bell (Big Star), D. Boon (Minutemen), Jonathan Brandis (SeaQuest DSV), Kurt Cobain, Pete Ham (Badfinger), Jimi Hendrix, Brian Jones (Rolling Stones), bluesman Robert Johnson, Janis Joplin, Ronald McKernan (Grateful Dead), Kristen Pfaff (Hole), Jeremy Michael Ward (Mars Volta), Randy "Stretch" Walker (Live Squad), Alan Wilson (Canned Heat), Amy Winehouse, Anton Yelchin (Star Trek, Star Trek: Into Darkness) and Mia Zapata (The Gits). Most of them are suicides or overdoses, which I think are baked-in risks for their professions, especially in late 20s, and really not terribly surprising. Your mileage may vary.
The first effort by this team took the late-1960s rumor of Paul McCartney's death (I think at age 27, but it might have been 28) and did "what if" about that being true. I haven't read it, but if and when I do, I'll decide if I want to read Jim Lives.
Space Pirate Captain Harlock #1
Ablaze | $3.99
Writers: Leiji Matsumoto, Jerome Alquie | Art: Jerome Alquie | Cover A: Derrick Chew | Cover B: Kendrick Lim | Cover C: Leirix Li | Cover D: Yanick Paquette
Set within the timeline of the original series, this brand-new Captain Harlock adventure marks the beginning of a new story arc. Planet Earth is threatened by an upcoming invasion by the Sylvidres and despite being banished as a pirate, Captain Harlock won’t give up trying to save the world. This time, the source of danger comes directly from Earth, not outer space. A team of scientists discovers a Sylvidres mausoleum where they find information about terrifying genetic manipulations and a destructive power capable of either providing the Sylvidres with immortality or putting an end to their civilization. The unprecedented cold spell hitting Earth might only be a taste of what this new enemy has in store.
The Captain's comments: I didn't see the anime this is based on, or the first series; in fact, I don't think my LCS carries any Ablaze titles. Or maybe they're request-only. So it might be as good as the glowing PR made it sound, or not.
Stillwater by Zdarsky & Perez #8
Image Comics | $3.99
Writer: Chip Zdarsky | Art: Mike Spicerm Ramon K. Perez | Cover A: Ramon K. Perez | Cover B: Pride Month variant: Gabrielle Kari
Nothing will ever be the same in the town of Stillwater now that Kreegs and his team of outsiders have arrived to enforce a new world order — and Daniel must join the clandestine resistance. But now it’s time for Sheriff Tanya to take a road trip, dispose of a body and deal with the consequences of her choices.
Fans of Stillwater By Zdarsky & Pérez won’t want to miss the monumental Skybound X #2, featuring the unexpected secret origin of Daniel’s powerful new ally on July 14.
The Captain's comments: I don't read this book, but Image wanted fans to know this issue starts a new storyline. I assume that means it's a good jumping-on point?
Venom #35 (200th issue)
Marvel Comics | Teen+ | $9.99
Writers: Donny Cates, Phillip Kennedy Johnson | Art: Ryan Stegman Ryan, more | Cover: Ryan Stegman | Variant: Arthur Adams | Variant: Mark Bagley | Variant: Simone Bianchi | Variant: Patrick Gleason | Variant: Kyle Hotz | Variant: Jock | Variant: Nic Klein | Variant: Mr. Garcin | Variant: Humberto Ramos | Variant: Ryan Stegman | Variant: Elizabeth Torque | Variant: Jeffrey Veregge
The landmark issue will pick up after the events of KING IN BLACK. Over the years, Donny Cates and Ryan Stegman have torn Eddie Brock’s life asunder while introducing new villains and uncovering long-hidden mysteries about the nature of symbiotes.
Throughout their run, they’ve explored Venom’s very nature as a Marvel hero. This issue will reveal what Venom’s future holds. But in Knull’s wake, what even remains of Marvel’s Lethal Protector?
The Captain's comments: It's the final issue of the Cates/Stegman run. If that's good news or bad will have to be decided by those who, unlike me, enjoy Venom.
WHAT TH--?
Bleeding Skull! A 1990s Trash-Horror Odyssey
Fantagraphics | $34.99
Writer: Joseph A. Ziemba | Art: Annie Choi Cover: Zack Carlson
Bleeding Skull! A 1990s Trash-Horror Odyssey is a celebration of the most obscure, bizarre and brain-busting movies ever made. Curated by the minds behind BleedingSkull.com and jam-packed with rare photographs, advertisements and VHS sleeves, Bleeding Skull! is a laugh-out-loud guide to the dusty inventory of the greatest video store that never existed.
The Captain's comments: This almost sounds weird enough to get. I'd rather it was more expansive than just the '90s, though. I lived through that decade and probably know most of this already.
Voyage to the Stars TPB
IDW Publishing | 96 pages | $15.99
Writers: Ryan Copple, James Asmus | Art/Cover: Connie Daidone
Earth is gone. Only one intrepid crew of misfits managed to escape, now determined and ambiguously destined to stop a growing, ancient evil from consuming the universe. Though stopping it may be tricky, as our heroes can't help but destroy just about every planet and species they come across. Kinda debatable who's the bigger threat.
The Captain's comments: Here's something new: A comic book based on a podcast. It's a brave new world, my friends.
THE FULL LIST
BOOM! STUDIOS
Angel & Spike Vol 2 TPB
BRZRKR #3 (of 12)
Firefly Brand New Verse #4 (of 6)
Jim Henson’s Storyteller: Tricksters #4 (of 4)
Luna #5 (of 5)
Many Deaths of Laila Starr #3 (of 5)
Save Yourself #1 (of 4)
Seven Secrets #9
DARK HORSE COMICS
Art of Rick & Morty Deluxe Edition Vol 2 HC
Grandville Integral HC
Grendel: Devil’s Odyssey #7 (of 8)
Hellsing Deluxe Edition Vol 3 HC
House of Lost Horizons #2 (of 5)
Madman Library Edition Vol 1 HC
Norse Mythology II #1 (of 6)
Rangers of the Divide #2 (of 4)
World of Black Hammer Library Edition Vol 3 HC
DC COMICS
Batman/Fortnite: Zero Point #5 (of 6)
Batman Vol 3: Ghost Stories HC
Catwoman #32
DCeased: Hope at World’s End HC
Flash #771
Future State: Next Batman TPB
Legends of the Dark Knight #2
Nightwing #81
Represent #1 one-shot
Scooby Doo Where Are You #110
Static Season #1 (of 6)
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow #1
Superman: Red and Blue #4 (of 6)
Teen Titans: Beast Boy HC
Truth & Justice #5
DYNAMITE
Army of Darkness/Xena Omnibus TPB
Black Terror: Dark Years TPB
Chastity: Blood Consequences TPB
Pathfinder Vol 5: Hollow Mountain TPB
Sacred Six #10
Sonjaversal #5
IDW PUBLISHING
GI Joe: A Real American Hero #283
Godzilla: Monsters & Protectors #3
Sonic the Hedgehog #41
Star Wars: High Republic Adventures #5
Transformers: Escape #4 (of 5)
Usagi Yojimbo #20
Voyage to the Stars TPB
IMAGE COMICS
Compass #1 (of 5)
Home #3 (of 5)
Ice Cream Man Vol 6: Just Desserts TPB
Jim Lives: The Mystery of the Lead Singer of the Doors TPB
Jupiter’s Legacy: Requiem #1 (of 12)
Radiant Black #5
Silver Coin #3
Stillwater by Zdarsky & Perez #8
Time Before Time #2
Ultramega by James Harren #4
Walking Dead Deluxe #17
MARVEL COMICS
Alien #4
Captain America Annual #1
Captain America Bicentennial Battles New Treasury Edition TPB
Demon Days: Mariko #1
Fantastic Four #33
Heroes Reborn #7 (of 7)
Heroes Reborn Omnibus HC New Ptg
Heroes Reborn Weapon X and Final Flight #1
Mighty Valkyries #3 (of 5)
Miles Morales Spider-Man #27
MMW Daredevil Vol 15 HC
New Mutants #19
Dauterman Connecting Var Gala $3.99
Planet-Sized X-Men #1
Power Pack Classic Omnibus Vol 2 HC
Power Pack: Powers That Be TPB
Star Wars #14
Thor by Donny Cates Vol 2 TPB
Thor by Jason Aaron Complete Collection Vol 3 TPB
Venom #35 200th Issue
X-Corp #2
COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS
21st Centurions #5
21st Century Boys Vol 1: Perfect Ed Urasawa GN
Aggretsuko: Meet Her World #3
Anne Bonnie #11
Ascencia #5
Battler Britton Pratt War Picture Library HC $19.99
Belle Sirens one-shot
Black Friday #3 (of 3)
Bleeding Skull
Blue Flag Gn Vol 8
Carmen Sandiego Vol 4: Need for Speed Caper GN
Case Study of Vanitas Vol 8 GN
Chasing the Dragon #4 (of 5)
Chobits 20th Anniversary Edition Vol 4 HC
Cimmerian: Iron Shadows in the Moon #3
Cold Blooded TPB
Cold Dead War #3 (of 4)
Dead Mount Death Play Vol 5 GN
Destiny Ny #4
Doctor Who Missy #3
Fist of the North Star Vol 1 HC
Golden Kamuy Vol 22 GN
Great Gatsby #1
Heart Shaped Tears one-shot
Judge Dredd Guatemala TPB
Kaiju Score Vol 1 TPB
Kitty Quest Vol 1 GN
Kitty Quest Vol 1 HC
Knight of Ice Vol 6 GN
Legend of Auntie Po GN
Magic Tree House Vol 1: Dinosaurs Before Dark HC
Maison Ikkoku Collector’s Edition Vol 4 TPB
Manga Classics Dracula New Ptg
Midnight Sky #8
Minky Woodcock: Girl Electrified Tesla #3
Mischief and Mayhem Vol 1: Born To Be Bad GN
Monster Friends GN
Montana Diary one-shot
Ninja High School #180
Nottingham #4 (of 5)
Now #10 Comics Anthology
One-Shot Story of Bullying GN
Ooku Inner Chambers Vol 18 GN
Perfect World Vol 6 GN
Perhapanauts Second Chances #1
Project Patron #3
Resistance Uprising #3
Resonant #10
RWBY Official Manga Vol 3: Beacon Arc GN
School Frozen in Time Vol 2 GN
Seven Swords #1
Shark and Bot Vol 2: Sleepaway Champs GN
Show Me History: Helen Keller — Inspiration to Everyone
Silver City #2
Space Pirate Capt Harlock #1
Stake #4
Star Crossed Vol 2 GN
Super Magic Forest GN
Those Not So Sweet Boys Vol 3 GN
Triage X Vol 21 GN
Visitor #6 (of 6)
World’s End Harem Vol 11 GN
Replies
My LCS's site lists only what shipping through Diamond, so I come here to find out what's shipping from DC. I'm pleased to learn that the new Supergirl series is shipping this week (but I'm more pleased by the "Tom King" part than the "Supergirl" part per se).
I'll be re-buying the Captain America's Bicentennial Battles, even though I already own it in omnibus format, because it's "treasury" size.
Reed Richards looks like Donald Trump, Jr. here.
I guess that makes Sue Ivanka.
I have most of the Madman comics in that collection, so I can't justify buying it. I always loved the art, but the story just never drew me in. I think a lot of that had to do with its spotty publishing
Supergirl - I'm the opposite of Jeff, whatever interest I had instantly left once I saw Tom King was involved.
Someone showed me Kevin Feige's appearance on Sunday. I think my response was, "Huh..." I had no idea what he looks like.
I'll be getting the new Captain Harlock series.I'm hoping for better than the Conan stuff I've read.
"I guess that makes Sue Ivanka."
And would that make the orange guy...? Nah!
I just got around to reading the previous issue of Fantastic Four, the start of the wedding of Doom storyline... and it's gonna be a corker. While I've enjoyed Slott's run, there are only a few times where it's really grabbed me. But with issue 32, this book is can't-miss for a little while.
I really don't like the covers on the book, though. They're well painted, but they completely lack the spry character of the art inside.
(Doom has proposed to Victorius, by the way, a superpowered admirer/enforcer/subject Slott introduced in a previous storyline.)
Also: the original digital-first plans for Static (and other Milestone books) were scrapped; it now debuts in print at the same time it's in digital. One change from how most books do it, though: If you have DC Infinite, it's available there as well, rather than waiting 6 months after the print date to arrive. Basically, if you have DCI, Milestone books are free, no waiting!
Thanks for the info, Rob! As we all know by now, DC's exit from Diamond makes figuring out what's coming out on a given week more difficult. And figuring out what's print and what's digital more difficult still.