ANIL RICKLY's Comics Review - Marvel and DC

ANIL RICKLY’s Comic Book Reviews – November 2010


1.Batman:The Return -

Hot off the heels of a complex Return of Bruce Wayne #6 issue, Grant Morrison decides to not skip a beat, and to jump into the crux of the prodigal hero returning to DCU. If you’re a Batman fan, the pure catharsis of Bruce’s return is positively offset by the fact that there are other Batman Books out this week that expound on the new Status Quo of BATMAN INC. Bruce has returned and his taking his mission global to combat crime wherever there is darkness and evil. Sounds good, and this premise hits home early on as we see Grant doing what we know him to do best…sticking Bruce in a villainous scenario, and getting the best out of him panel by panel. There is a master moment where Bruce disseminates certain pieces of info whose relevance to Batman Inc will be unraveled in the coming weeks to the likes of Oracle, Lucius Fox, Alfred and eventually, Dick and Damian. The fact that we see uber shadows of Bruce ‘bonding’ with his son is also cleverly done, with intricate plot twists that subtly take the story forward as the perpetual Batman story we all love – a straightforward mystery arc! Leviathan is a name that John Hickman may take pride in as it is now echoing in the biggest Bat-Book of the year in my humble opinion, and it’s a nice layout by Grant Morrison as he leaves out complexities thus far and keeps a uniquely forward blend of where Bruce’s vision is taking us. If you jump on now, it’d be nice to see where Grant started from, but from R.I.P. to present, I must say I wasn’t a fan of the ‘RETURN’ books, but I am glad with the pay-off of Batman Inc. it is going places that only Morrison can take us, and while he isn’t my favorite batwriter as I’m more a Loeb guy, I do think this may well be one of the most brilliant visions for Batman I’ve seen for a while. There are enough questions and mysteries here to make you wonder aloud or silently, but enough intrigue and action to make you eager for the next issue. The kicker is…the art of David Finch is simply top-notch, and tops the already amazing work the likes of Tony Daniel, Frazer Irving and Cameron Stewart have highly standardized in the past year. I can’t wait to see Finch’s ‘TDK’ book and see how his writing is blooming. After his ‘Ultimatum’ work and ‘X-Men’ stuff looked so damn fine, I felt he never got to work with the proper writers, and after being teased with his lovely ‘Brightest Day/Batman’ covers, I was glad to see the wait being worth it as Finch delivers…plus more. His Batman pics, particularly Bruce Wayne’s public form, is drawn with a subtle intimidation and ferocity that makes this guy the epitome of what the Dark Knight should be. And if you question me, his first few pages show that he can simply take Bats…the animals…and make them seem like the crux…of ironically…a Batman-related story. Finch missed not a beat, and this book dawns brightly with a solid 9.5/10


2. Batman 704 –

Tony Daniel improves on his writing and his drawings…immensely. For those who loved Battle for the Cowl, this improvement is drastic and most welcome, as his pages are just as dramatic and evoking as Finch’s. His deft depiction of Batman and Robin, and encountering a mean looking Bruce in costume, shows how far he’s come, and with DC eyeing him and Finch a writer/artists on these big titles, I do hope they get enough time in to deliver consistent quality and thus far, all I’ve seen are good signs that they will. Daniel is somewhat lacking on consistently sharp dialogue but nails a scene with Grayson and Selina Kyle concerning a certain feline new to the field. It seems that Daniel is focusing slightly more on bettering his art, and the last few action panels are smooth and graceful, but some more elegance in his writing and dialogue can improve an already decent take on this Grayson guy…to me, 8/10. Special note to the aforementioned book as this one, as both seem to be using Hindu elements in them…kudos from a once-Hindu in the Caribbean 


3. Batman Inc 01 –

Paquette and Lacombe do well in this book, and their art would stand out more, if not for the Finch and Daniel perfection I read earlier. They all did well, but story-wise, Morrison continues with a simple quest of Bruce training an Oriental Batman, and on his quest to find him, he takes Selina Kyle for a little detour. Paquette draws their public egos nicely, and the gym scene is funny as is exhilarating, but it’s a bit off seeing Bruce threaten a henchman with much more violence than I’d suspect, and it seems the Bruce that’s returned is a bit more trusting. Nonetheless, Grant crafts a simple tale of mystery and ingénue, with a hint of Saw tossed in at the end. It isn’t the most solid issue, but it builds on Batman Inc being Bruce’s baby to groom worldwide Batmen while Grayson and Damian watch over Gotham. Simple and fun! Still, it’s weird that he can’t get Kyle to kick off Catgirl, but he gets her to help him steal  I expect Grant to fix this as it doesn’t fit! Overall, 7.5/10


4. Brightest Day 14 –

Avid readers of this book won’t be surprised to see Boston Brand try to stick his tongue down Dove’s throat, right? But what continually surprises me is that when Johns and his team, particularly Ivan Reis, decide to focus on Brand, who admittedly wasn’t a keen guy I was interested in in DCU, they simply turn out the best BD stories! Is it due to the fact that Brand is charged with finding, or letting the new, White Lantern come to him? Or is it that along with Brand wielding the ring, he is interconnected to so many faces that are key in BD, particularly the resurrected 12? To me it seems that Johns is at his strongest when he takes characters that are obscure and expands on them or adds to their foundation. The trip into the past of Boston is well crafted and keeps me interested, even amidst the intro of a long –anticipated certain Dark Knight to this book. While the Aquafamily arc and the Firestorm seem to be more intriguing to me than the Hawklovers or the Martian, the Boston thread is well pulled off and keeps us wondering where Johns is taking us. This trip seems heading somewhere that neither GL nor mainstream DC fans can guess and I think that’s the strong point Geoff plays off. The petulance of the White Ring is also well received in its mannerisms and teachings to certain folks, but what definitely makes the book, is the final page as this is a thread that I’ve been keenly watching in other books. It also hints at a certain Knight’s involvement that may be a bit more felt as of this last page. The strongpoint here in this issue hints that a big payoff is coming soon, and what’s scary is that it seems to be one of many. Rating by me is stiffly at 9/10

5.Green Lantern 59 –

Doug Mahnke and Christian Alamy aren’t as spectacular as I thought they’d be on recent issues here but this issue sees a decent step up, still some way off the high standard I expect since Blackest Night. Does this hinder the story? Not in a single bit. We get a lot of appearances from some key figures in the post-BN world. The Indigo Tribe surfaces with its entity, some new faces and some shocking revelations that border cultism. This thread is well woven into a bickering between Barry Allen and Hal Jordan that is one of Johns’ best pieces of dialogue since GL REBIRTH. There is so much history and so much emotion in this diatribe that I felt jolts reading it, and sad to say, this is where the villains in this book count themselves lucky! We see the hunt for the entities get way too sticky and sickening in such a delightful manner that the final page is one that makes us giddy with joy. The anticipation for further exploration in the next few issues is overwhelming especially as avid readers pick up on the hint into the ‘War of the Green Lanterns’ event being teased by DC. This issue has the right proportions of teasing and revelations in well written blends that represent the ingredients for a sparkling issue of Green Lantern. I dub this, 9.5/10


6. Green Lantern Corps 54 –

Bedard continues a well directed tale where he finally reveals the secret behind the Weaponer of Qward, and it isn’t any huge revelation. It’s well spun though, and seeing Rayner go at it with Sinestro is the highlight of the book, in more ways than one. Kirkham/Batt do sufficiently well on art but sometimes the inconsistency with which they draw Rayner begrudges the book, and offsets avid eyes at times. It still doesn’t bog the arrogant Sinestro and the well-written characters in place. The odd thing was Sinestro imprisons Qwardians using his Corps but they’re the most powerful weaponers around and had one guy who built the first ring for a Yellow Sinestro…yet they are so easily overpowered? That kinda seems too big a jump for me…but bar this, the book offers a decent read, and promises a huge slug-fest! Sad to say, it seems like a simple grudge arc, and besides the ‘white light’ harnessing by our new foe, it barely does enough to tie into Brightest Day. It does well enough to stand on its own as a self contained story, but whether that was Bedard’s aim remains to be seen. Tomasi is missed on this book, but with him and Gleason helming Batman and Robin once Grant departs, I can safely say that GLC is well covered…thus far. I rate this 7.5/10


7. Avengers 07 –

Still reeling off the disappointing time-travel arc that Bendis spun on this newly written book, I did hope for something to make my eyes open a bit. But I admit I was poorly pleased. Romita’s art still to me reeks of the fun-filled Kickass, maybe a Hulk or a Spiderman book, or some book where there isn’t that focus on too many big-name characters; but the poor paneling and depictions of the likes of Thor, Iron Man, Wonder Man etc makes me wonder how the likes of Cheung, Deodato, Coipel, Djurdjevic, Caselli or McNiven aren’t constantly contacted for such a huge book. Red Hulk is also poorly done here and sad to say, the story-writing is not that which makes one overlook the poor sketching. A poorly drawn book is heaped on by a poorly written story as the gist of this issue could have been done in simply 2 pages – someone is hunting the Infinity Gems. Instead we get a dragged out issue where the big tease of Rulk, is poorly trashed out to us in a couple feeble panels and a sloppy last page, and Bendis slumps in an issue where the biggest moment was what…Noh-Varr’s introduction of his girlfriend to the team? I expect a lot better for such a high-octane book and the tease to this book was such a hype, yet it leaves my mind as a severely underwhelming issue. Sad to say this book is stuck at 5/10.


8. New Avengers 06 –

Stuart Immonen is at his best here as I feel this book is where all his works were leading up to. He draws this team with the grit that the book needs. Even the new Iron Fist costume and Wolverine mash-up come off as something fresh and eye-catching. Sadly, as promising as this arc started off, I can’t sense any pay-off here. After the debacle with searching for the new Sorcerer Supreme, it seems that Bendis takes 2 steps back with the decisions in this book. I anticipated a huge showdown between Strange and a certain Ancient, but what I got was a random toss-up and a wannabe Deus Ex Machina that falls flat on its face, for the book, and for the reader. This was spun off the last pages of the previous issue and while I hoped it may work out well, my instincts were right, as it proved an utter shamble. This issue is one of the most hurtful issues to a Marvel Supernatural World that is already hurting saleswise as seen with the recent Doc Voodoo, Ghost Rider and Cap Brittain works, all much better written than what Bendis does here…by a huge mile! One would think Bendis would try his best to reinvigorate the magical MU realm, but instead this issue undoes any good work he laid down, and butchers the magical world. Heads are left rolling, as are eyes, with a lot of questions tossed up in the air, and little resolution offered. Even Hellstrom’s last few pages make no sense in the wake of this tragedy which somehow doesn’t seem to hit home for the squad, bar one person…and it is no shocker who feels this death. Funnily, Bendis is one of the few who is usually good with Avengers, but when he misses, he can make a death seem not sad, but more along the lines of disappointed or even pissed. DnA made the MU COSMIC kickass again, and we took notes, as they shocked and awed us with revere and amazement. Sadly, Bendis only shocked here, and not for the good, as seen with the score of 5.5/10

9. The Thanos Imperative 06 –

Miguel Sepulveda caught my eye on Thunderbolts, and while I hoped Brad Walker would pencil this book, Sepulveda, as well as Aleksi Briclot’s covers have made this team of ‘Cosmic Avengers’, short-term nonetheless, such a wonderfully drawn out collage, that DnA simply had to ensure that the plot never became muddled. Not an easy task, but all collaborators were spot on. DnA took Nova, Guardians of the Galaxy, Realm/War of Kings, the Inhumans from heights that Secret Invasion set, to even greater zeniths, that not even Keith Giffen and company set during their runs. Annihilation sparked a renaissance in MU COSMIC, but only when DnA took over, did true greatness achieve. They are the best ensemble writers at Marvel, and while I’m glad to see them on Heroes for Hire, I do want them taking Avengers soon! Their construct of Cosmic Events, whether small or big, is breath-taking, and they use the cosmic heroes, every single one, to the best ability and write them with the fervency that few scribes could reach. Thanos proved to be the hit of this series to no surprise, but the Cancerverse, Revengers and other villains, were so well done, that even when certain heroic members had to take the backseat, the story never misses a beat. This is the ideal event, full of action and intricate story, and this issue sees certain leaders stand up and be counted; and this is where legends are made. This final issue tends to all heroes, all villains…and the in-betweens. I implore all to pick DnA’s Cosmic Work up…I do so with a 9.5/10

10. Avengers: Children’s Crusade 03 –

Jim Cheung delivers some of his best art to date, and this book is worth the wait! Other Marvel writers/artists tried their hands but it’s Cheung/Heinberg that do this team well. Cheung’s ‘Secret Warriors’ covers also caught my eye but seeing Wanda, Doom and a plethora of cast-members since the first issue drawn so well amidst a well conceived plot by Heinberg, are the things that highlight this book greatly. Since House of M, I am keen to see what lies for Wanda, and I’m glad Bendis isn’t handling this, as Heinberg takes all characters in stride as if he’s written them constantly over the past year or 2. Quiksilver and Magneto steal the spotlight, along with Wiccan, whose innocence and longing, make teary eyes. We get teases of Wanda but with a well paced flow, the segue from issue to issue is perfected by Heinberg. I cannot wait to see the payoff but this Scarlett Witch thread is one that deserves patience as I see a lot of ramifications in the Avengers World and the X-World coming abound. If you can’t have patience for that, then what can you have patience for? I rate this 9/10 solidly.


11. Thor 617 –

Ferry has been solid on this book, as the coloring reeks of damage and destruction when he shows the threats that survey the realms, but when it’s Midgard or Asgard, there’s an aesthetic nuance that soothes us…for the time being. Ferry since his Ender stuff, has shown he has experience to take on this book, and what worried me was Fraction. Their debut was solid, but since then, I can’t see how this book has evolved as we’re in the same spot – ‘ASGARD ISN’T WHERE IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE AND SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES!’ The evolution of the story is too slow, and considering that JMS dragged out slow paced works but still got the blood pumping, that’s saying a lot. Fraction drags as he does with Iron Man and Uncanny X-Men, but these books do seem to be faster paced than his Thor. It’s early to be too harsh, but after Siege, I expect more from Thor, Balder, the Asgardians and the Midgardians. The highlight of this issue is a popular return, but I ask again, why Thor clamors this for an entity that has done nothing but harm since his return from Ragnarok? Please don’t give me that childhood nostalgia crap, as that cannot count for nearly killing Asgard! Ferry’s art does make a huge save while Fraction takes so much time to build momentum, but until Fraction does something like resurrect Odin or hire Stark to build Asgard anew, this book can’t run on Ferry’s drawing for much more …score is 7/10


12.Secret Warriors 21 –

Hickman has a way of plotting points and connecting them, as old astrologers of yonder, hence why he seems fit for surgically specific books as S.H.I.E.L.D. or FF4, but when he gets into this spy thriller and action buffet, you wonder if he delivers. He did in the earlies, but as much as I miss Caselli’s art, I do hope that Vitti comes forward to end the book, as the pace is picked back up again to strong settings as of this issue, and the previous one. It’s HYDRA coming at the heroes, and while the story doesn’t advance much, there’s a lot of decent fighting sequences that Hickman uses while the story remains on pause. We don’t get the endless discussion-themed panels, but it’s pure kickass…raw and unadulterated. The Gorgon final page is one that mystifies me as I didn’t see it coming…but with more to hit the fan, I’m all in…8/10


13. Ultimate Spiderman 14, 15 –

Pichelli is the person I think succeeds Lafuente the best. Bendis delivers a huge payoff in issue 14 with the Chameleon twins, as his dialogue remains topnotch here. I reiterate that he writes Gwen unlike any one…he’s the best handler I’ve read for Stacy! This book is filled so much with teen angst that this deserves to replace CW’s Gossip Girl or ONE TREE HILL! It isn’t the hyped book I expected post-Ultimatum, but I admit it’s well done! Issue 15 takes us to a whole new ballgame, and with Bendis and Millar eyeing ‘Death of Spiderman’ in the Ult Universe, I can’t fathom what these guys have planned. But I anticipate it, as the UU books, bar this, have been very weak since Ultimatum. These book both clock in at 8/10

14. Avengers Academy 06 –

I didn’t think Gage could keep up his awesome momentum once Avengers: Initiative ended, but this guy can write any character thrown at him, old or new! Mckone is spot on with art as well, but since its inception, Gage has gotten this book down from heroes, new and old, to villains…down cold! His plot is well spread and Pym and Quicksilver all shine well. The young heroes are where he shines as his teen drama plays off so smoothly that you just can’t wait for it all to fall apart. This book has a lot of promise and the cast is one that when it revolves, it enhances the story fully. What’s even more amazing is that Gage is yet to delve into the main dangling plot threads in this book, and if he rocked on the minor ones, can you imagine the things he has planned for major threads? He has impressed fully, and Mike McKone continues to be a bright light here! This issue shows how being a teen is so messed up…but how splendid it is to read about! Reminds me of Nick Spencer on 'Morning Glories'...To me…9/10


15.Ultimate Comics Thor 02 –

The first issue was a bit bland but with Pacheco and Hickman onboard, I sense that they are ideal in pulling this character aside and dissecting him fully for us to throw back into UU. Thor has been a mere crazy thug to me in UU with no one showing any character depth to him, not even Bendis, nor Millar! Hickman does a bit, but not as much as I expected in this issue. But it’s nice to see the likes of Odin, Warriors 3, the Midgard members linked with Thorvald, all get screen time…but it’s slightly too much! Why? Because we know a fair amount of time will go to Loki once it’s not Thor we focus one. We get our fill of Loki here, and it’s well played, from the battle-field to the dark brooding rooms of his mother, and seeing Frost Giants, as well as the Nazis etc from issue 1, are all good additives into the story, yet we don’t get the Thor analysis that I felt Hickman should concentrate upon. He has done character dissection well in his other Marvel Books, so I expect this here for a character that badly needs it. We do get our bags of tricks and slips that we expect in a Thor book, along with some nice fighting panels, and the smirks are all wiped away with a promising last page, which is as sinister as you’d expect! In my eyes…7/10


16.Thor: For Asgard 04 –

Rodi is one writer that I trust with Thor and he isn’t inexperienced with the character. Shame to say, he continues to drag this series out and milk it for what it’s worth…a chance to show he can efficiently prose the dialogue of Marvel Norse Gods! Bianchi’s art, reminiscent of his Astonishing X-Men, never faltered since issue 1, but Rodi is yet to make proper headway with his story. It remains as is from Issue 1 – Thor cannot lift Mjolnir and the Asgardians are in immortal or shall I say mortal danger from an unknown force while Odin is clarifying a rape charge! This is harsh, but true, and issue 4 picks up a muddled Hera twist that is yet to make sense and acts as an unwanted catalyst – into more moaning and groaning from Thor. We only have talking, and less ‘doing’ which is prevalent in Thor books since JMS took over, but Rodi needs to be a bit more coherent and forthcoming. There is an air of shyness with this book, that I can’t withstand much more, and while I wasn’t impressed with Fraction’s old Thor stuff, I admit that Rodi may be a bit more of a chore. There’s only so much Bianchi can do for your book my friend…4/10


17. The Flash 06 -

Francis Manapul has been immaculate as can be on this book. His Iris Allen and the work he did drawing romantic scenes with a newly returned Conner Kent and Cassie remain my favorite panel ever in Adventure Comics...and now he continues to astound me with his gorgeous Iris. That said, Geoff Johns has called on him to derive an array of rogues, present and future, and he does so with an amazing ease. If he replaced Romita on Avengers, his simplicity would show how good he is and how awkward Romita is to that book. Manapul's art in this book never slips, and all his characters are drawn with such a sparkle that it rolls so well with Johns' words. Johns nails this arc as Barry Allen has quite a task ahead but this issue fills out well, and ends on a suspicious note that teases a new character, as well as the much anticipated 'Flashpoint'. While not one of Johns' strongest issues, the finish is strong, despite a somewhat contrived plot, and they manage to keep me interested in what's to come. The teases of time paradoxes and drama that the past is changing with remains enough to warrant a 7.5/10

18.The Scourge 00, 01 -


This book intrigued me as I saw the NYCC tease and had to have a go as I've seen some of Eric Battle's work, and if you like old-school Batman stuff, and the likes of Tony Daniel and David Finch, then I think you're in for a treat. Scott Lobdell does amazing in this script, and these 2 issues are well plotted, and enhanced with Battle's art, and it's a pleasure to know that a lot more kickass stuff is coming. A simple plot rears where a 'breakout' results in citizens of NY turning into Gargoyles, while the protagonist is drawn in whilst just wanting to see his kid and appease a nagging wife. This equation is simple indeed, but Battle's art makes such a compliment to the plot, that you can't help but thank Aspen comics for wowing you! I've got issues 2 and 3 to come into my room still, and I'm glad to say...I anticipate the read. I've submitted covers above, the latter...David Finch...and do some research into this book, as there are some big names with big portfolios behind this, so I wouldn't be surprised to hear a TV/film mention called out. Reminded me of my eagerness when I read Kirkman's Haunt! Nice book...have at it...8.0/10


19.X-Men 005 -

Paco Medina continues to impress me since his Deadpool stuff, and he is one of the best artists I have seen recently on an X-Man book, and it begs...maybe he'd be a cool pick for an Avengers or T-Bolts title someday? That's good and all, but the letdown here is the Deus Ex Machina that Gischler gives Cyclops regarding Logan. It seems forced and could have been done with Logan's consent I'm sure, but what irks me is that the tide of the battle is virtually turned, over 1 mutant's allegiance? That seems pretty weak to me, and the Iceman twist should in my opinion, should be where the vampires get their behinds handed to them, as its ingenious and a nice throwback to Nightcrawler! That said, this arc is coming to an end, and I'm straining to maintain the enthusiasm I had in the first few issues...6.0/10


20.X-Factor 211 -

Peter David has been a guy I hoped would be tossed onto Uncanny X-Men or a bigger X-Book, but after all his WTF and OMG moments, coupled with mystically profound twists and turns that simply boost and boost the excitement in his storylines, I'm glad he stayed on this book, as it's consistently the best X-Book out, and has the best stories! His final pages are killer, and you never know where he's going! He also uses a revolving door of characters from Doom to Layla to the FF4 and now to Norse Gods, and he writes every single character in his books, as if he works with them every day...from Madrox to a sultry Hela. His art team never skips a beat also, and this just makes the book more superb than it should be! From the humor that plays off to the serious tones such as Jaime's clones, the issue with the kid dupe, to the many love qualms in this book, to the Rictor/Shatterstar debate...to the Rahne pregnancy...it's a plethora of plot threads that I'm eager for resolution...or for some sort of urgent pseudo-comedy! This issue deals with Norse elements, a fine looking Hela and a much welcome cameo at the end that leaves us wondering how does this team always find itself up crap's creek? And I'd have it no other way...9.0/10

21.Thunderbolts 150 -

The ruse of Zemo as Citizen V and his team pretending to be heroes to the world remains one of the best plots ever on reading material, and subsequently I've ranked Warren Ellis, Andy Diggle and Mike Deodato as guys who have helped shape the current status quo of MU today from the Dark Reign to the Heroic Age. Bendis did get a great deal of help from these guys when T-Bolts advanced to Dark Avengers, and now with Secret Avengers on tap, many wondered if this book became redundant? Thankfully, HELL NO! I was skeptical of Kev Walker's art but he and Jeff Parker (whose Hulk and Atlas works also rank well with me) deliver this book in a manner that makes Luke Cage seem more fit here than he does in Avengers! Not an easy feat but this ensemble of misfits as team members work ever so well...from Ghost to Marko to Crossbones, and let's say this issue gives us a good ole fashion throw-down with the Avengers Trinity! There's little I can say but...the action never ends...and Steve shows why he's Steve at the end in a moral manner that reeks of the fabric of the American Flag! Bonus material or not, this was a helluva way to crown the 150th issue...9.5/10


22.Hulk 27 -

Parker continues to impress on this book...given the poorly left canvas that Loeb smothered us with, and I'm glad to say that he making the RULK character seem interesting again. The exchanges between Banner and Ross are sublime, and seeing a veteran like Ross pale in the presence of a perfectly drawn/written Steve Rogers is much appreciated. It would be nice to see Parker's build on Steve expressing interest in RULK as an Avenger taken more into the Avengers Book, because Bendis certainly got it all wrong this week when he pulled RULK in his messy scribe! Hardman's art and Parker's careful patience with building his main characters are done so well, that I assume Steve and RULK are Avengers already with Banner watching over them! It plays off well...Sadly, Namor isn't written to his best context and seems more irrational than usual. There isn't much logic to his behavior here, and it seems a forced way to sympathize with RULK, but clearly, this isn't the way for us fans to appreciate RULK. Parker needs to realize...RULK just does his job when called upon and that's that...forget the sympathy card. Parker faltered in writing Thor and Uatu in this book also, as I found them a bit trite...but overall, Jeff and team have done well in making a pretty interesting read post-Intelligencia...7.5/10

23.Morning Glories 1-4 -

The last time a teen-book really piqued my interest was in the form of B.K. Vaughn's Runaways, and that remains one of the best series I ever read, and I hope it makes it to TV or Film someday. That said, Bendis' Ult Spidey has also been a teen angst blast, and I'm glad to say Nick Spencer does a marvelous job of producing another swell teen-driven book! Morning Glories is full of adolescent and puberty driven kids with one or 5 things on their minds, and gives the riveting effect that Dawson's Creek fans such as myself have come to clamor and love! All the characters are spun ideally in a manner that keeps all eyes and hands on deck, and you simply are drawn in more and more with each issue! This seems like a bloody fun TV show on paper, but with the attractive art of Joe Eisma mimicking the Gossip Girl pretty faces, it's one I'm glad to be feasting my eyes on! There are twists and turns that come left-field, but should be no surprise once you understand the characters and their lack of motives, but the ride is much exciting! Rodin Esquejo's covers are an aesthetic blend of glory and visceral teasing, as this book remains an Image surprise, because I didn't expect to be taken back! What's even nicer is that the protagonists never seem to chalk out a win, and that always makes for a fist-pumping read. 4 issues in, and the wait for issue 5 is killing me. Nick Spencer is doing THUNDER agents for DC and Iron Man 2.0 with Rhodey from next year so expect much from this scribe in the coming year. This teen hit clocks in at...8.5/10


24.Superior # 2 -

Millar has been labelled as a 'shock-value writer...and Nemesis issue 3 won't take away from that, but with the likes of Red Son, Trouble, American Jesus, Kick-Ass, Civil War to name a few...being a shock and awe writer isn't such a bad thing...once executed well! 'Wanted' was a good book but a sucky film, and Kick-Ass did well on screen and on paper...so if the likes of Tony Scott wants to adapt Nemesis, or Millar's other works...then why not? The question is will his comics do well before they hit Hollywood? 'Superior' is a mesh of Tom Hanks' 'Big' meets 'DC's Captain Marvel'; and while issue 1 was well done with L. Francis Yu killing on the art...I felt that the profanity took away from what could have been a wicked kids' book! Such a kids' book would be unlike Millar...yet the story involving him tweaking a certain super man...is so like Millar! And I do see this making a cinematic film someday...after all, DC's Snyder Superman is moving at such a snail pace! Millar and Yu do continue to deliver a good story, very slow paced with gorgeous art! Yu literally makes Superior come to life, and the dialogue is realistic and witty! Millar hits all the poignant notes here as Yu literally draws Superior undertaking his super man tests of strength and exploring his powers to perfection! This is exactly how a real-world scenario would play out if a young kid with multiple sclerosis goes to his scared best friend given that a space monkey gave the sick kid super-powers! Issue 2 ends with a nice change of tone to the book, and while not the most hard-hitting of a read, this issue does convey exactly what Millar wanted, and it's something many writers lack these days... transposition from story to actual page by page...and I must say Yu and Millar have a cohesion that bodes very well...Special note to be taken that Millar covers will cross over soon to show a Nemesis/KickAss/Superior battle scheme so monitor that closely!...overall this gets 9/10

25.Batman and Robin 17 -

I admit that Grant Morrison has no handle on Jason Todd, but after 'Battle for the Cowl', despite his theatrical Bruce Wayne plot from R.I.P. to the Return; Grant has done what Ed Brubaker did to Bucky Barnes - rise like a phoenix through the ashes. Grant has made Grayson a very damn fine Batman...and this book does one more...it gives an antagonistic Robin in the form of Damian Wayne that is spot on! The last issue helmed the inception of Batman Inc. and we saw Frazer Irving deliver the violence of Damian and the eerie Joker rendezvous with Mr. Hurt and company. While Frank Quitley and Cameron Stewart are the artists I love on this book, Grant and Frazer have the chemistry to bring this new dynamic duo to life...but this issue sees Grant replaced by a Marvel fave of mine in Paul Cornell, with Scott McDaniel and Rob Hunter on art;...and this issue doesn't agree with me. From the once bedded femme fatale involved that Bruce apparently had a 'thing' with...to the cynical Commish Gordon...to the overly giddy Grayson...to a subtly angry and witty Damian...these compound some very off-key art where Grayson seems to young...and looks like Tim Drake at times, and Damian also...is aged a bit and looks too old...and what's up with Grayson smiling like the Joker in way too many panels? This plot is muddled to me, and coupled with the unsatisfactory art, I do hope that Peter Tomasi comes in and drops some awesomeness that he rocked in Green Lantern Corps...and this rates in at...5/10

26.Stan Lee's Soldier Zero # 1,2 -

Paul Cornell is hit and miss with me...his 'Dark Reign Young Avengers, Dark X-Men, Black Widow' works pale in comparison to his Captain Britain/MI-13, Dr. Who, Action Comics and Knight and Squire works! His foray this week into 'Batman and Robin' was also underwhelming and now, I must say that I was terribly disappointed with these 2 Soldier Zero issues after all the hype I garnered. The disappointment comes from what I personally see as a play off Marvel's 'Darkhawk'! Darkhawk was such a big player in the recent MU Cosmic that the references between Soldier Zero and Darkhawk are inevitable. A thrilling ride and ecstatic story would have been enough to off-set the similarities but sadly, this was a weak offering by Boom! I do hope that issue 3 gives a bit more as the link between this book and 'The Traveller' seems interesting at least, but is it enough to save the falter that Soldier Zero has been? A muffled plot with terrible dialogue, and sketchy art doesn't make this the most promising read. Even the alien entity which usually makes these books spectacular, proves to be an utter let-down thus far....I'd score it 4/10

27.Detective Comics 871 -

We return this book to the Batman...and it's Scott Snyder at his very best! His Marvel work wasn't enough to let him spread his wings as he's doing on 'American Vampire' but I do sense that he will be a huge hit on this book! He does well to make this a mystery thriller with all the detective elements that this book, and the Batman, deserve! He makes this a detective book! And furthermore, his Grayson is written well but when turned in with the cowl, you wonder if it's Bruce! He does well to make his Grayson seem akin to Bruce...which many writers have tried and failed to do...but what catches the eye is the relationship and dialogue between Grayson/Batman, and with Commish Gordon, as Snyder knocks them out the park! The murder and homage to Croc, Ivy, Mad-Hatter and Jim Corrigan are DC fanboy joy; and this book reeks of an eerie tinge of crime-drama, with subtle nuances of...let's say it's Batman meets Murder She Wrote!...I was most pleasantly surprised here...and Jock's work is just as I expected since his amazing days on 'The Losers'! Francesco Francavilla's separate story doesn't seem so much a back-up to me...as it is quite a spectacle to behold and a welcome bonus! Snyder simply owns and with 2 great artists/inkmen to run with...I applaud this effort deeply with a resounding 10/10

28.Uncanny X-Force 02 -

Remender has impressed since his 'Fear Agent' days but has also been most impressive to me on 'Doc Voodoo' and 'Punisher'; though the latter books may not have racked up the sales Marvel intended. That said, with the likes of him and Paul Cornell, you cannot deny quality...and that's what he brings to Uncacnny X-Force. With a new roster under Logan and secret from Scott and his X-Men, Deadpool, Fantomex, Angel and Psylocke all are at the forefront as they go after Akkaba and Apocalypse. This villain looks a bit different to the villain we last saw in Messiah War, but the eerie vibe is still there and Opena on art maintains brilliance that he radiated in the first issue. Remender also keeps the great work from issue 1 up and we get a helluva treat with the new Horsemen! The action scene on the moon is way enthralling and the exchanges amongst the team, especially Logan and Warren in a secret base that's reminiscent of the XMEN BATCAVE, is pure joy...but not as delicate as the convo with Psylocke and Angel. It's Remender at his best...and this dynamic duo on this book delivers a damn amazing read...as I expected. This new team is done so well, that you'd think these guys have been doing this book for a while...hence 8.5/10


29.Batman Beyond 06 -

Adam Beechen and Ryan Benjamin crafted a decent tale thus far, and with a new Hush out on the loose, fanboys were giddy to see how they wrapped up this mini-series!
With the reveal of Hush not being accepted by many in the much loved 'Beyond' universe, Beechen does well to show how it is CADMUS, Hush and the Batfamily all relate to each other. He has a cool grasp on Terry and makes it seem like Will Friedle all over again, and with the back and forth with Bruce, it's done well...and throwing wrenches in such as Amanda Waller, Dick Grayson, The Thawnes, Catwoman anew...and many other spoke benders, it's all a nice little recipe for a nifty story. Benjamin still has to improve a lot for the regular series when this book continues next year, but Beechen has laid some nice plot threads and elements that I expect to bear fruition in the future of this book. It'd be nice to see some more rogues from the cartoon, as well as the JLA with Terry considering joining...maybe even Superman as well?
This has been a fun ride and I'm glad they get the chance to explore more in the world of Terry and Bruce in 2011...I clock it at 7/10


30.Astonishing Thor 01 -

While Robert Rodi seems to have a great grasp on Asgardian dialogue in 'Thor: For Asgard'; it's lost on me how he gets it so wrong on this book...from Thor to Heimdall, it's very scrappy at best! It seems average and elementary as the words don't flow off the page. Mike Choi's art, when complimented by the hand of Sonia Oback on 'X-Force' seem so smooth, but here, it gets a bit sloppy and mundane at times...and Thor really looks like a girl...too young...and too not cool! It's androgynous and somewhat offsetting to see this marvelous heroic God look like America's next top model - especially in the Heroic Age! Choi isn't fully awful but he needs to step it up! This isn't the best Thor book in the multitudes that will be out and are out currently! Rodi isn't one I expect to be somewhat terrible, but I do know he has it in him to bring an epic Thor book; and I hope he makes amends next issue as he has some interesting players to toy with in this story! I score this 5.5/10


31.Uncanny X-Men 530 -

If inconsistency were an Olympic Sport, Greg Land and Matt Fraction would split the gold!
First off, Fraction opens with an awesome Emma Frost monologue, and sets a nice pace for this issue...but soon...Storm's 'Hello everyone, we're going to be fine, I promise'...is something that makes me upset to the bone. It's that poor. He crafts a wickedly cool tale of an outbreak of a flu that places Utopia on quarantine, and the Sublime plot with a certain 5 individuals is a previous arc thread coming full circle...and it's well executed...but Fraction, when he gets sloppy, it shows a lot...and is bold! He weaves a nice tale but what irks me is that we get no movement on the Shaw issue when clearly this has been stagnant for way too long! The seeds are set for following issues and I do look forward to them, but Fraction must maintain fluidity in his entire issue, and he has slipped up with this in his X-books, Thor books...and Iron Man books. I do hope Gillen does add something of a nice flavor soon as he is a fave o' mine!
As for Land, he draws one of the hottest Emma Frost panels with her bedsheet...indeed...but sad to say, all his blondes look like Emma...not necessary and not cool...bar Dazzler who looked terribly like Miley Cyrus...I need to forget that image! As for Scot Summers, he needs to have one hairstyle...period! It seems every artist tries to make models out of these X-Men and Land goes at it, drawing some awesome hairstyles at times, but he forgets the grit and raw dirtiness needed for this book...even when he draws sick mutants, especially Wolvie, it looks so weak! Finally, from Emma to Angel's PR to Scott to Warren to the issue's villains...when Land draws a character smiling, it's a wide scary grin that reeks of jail-time violation...and looks so awful that...I'd pay to fix it...Again, this duo is a good team, but I know they're better than what they poured out in this issue...ergo 6/10


32.Fantastic Four 585 -

John Hickman usually mixes a slow paced story matched with action, but usually in this embedded mixture, he focuses more on story-telling with the action as his crescendo! In his 'S.H.I.E.L.D' books, he is crafting a dramatic tale fused with old history and a classic Marvel twist that he is becoming famous for - his spins are unique and only Hickman's notes/flowcharts can shed light! 'Secret Warriors' has now picked up the action pace after much spy plotting and planning, and it's full out war erupting! Now, he gets to crunch the FF4 books, and after Mark Millar left me a rare bad taste in my mouth on this book, Hickman took his time and slowly built a nice machine. I admit my impatience as the FF4 drooped from being such interesting players in Civil War and Secret Invasion, to more or less non-existent in Dark Reign and Siege...and Hickman dragged slow tales out on this book, and well...it's clear he has laid building blocks for a foundational structure that is reaping lovely fruit now, and I admit...I didn't think he'd have me hooked on this book! His plan is all coming together and I don't want to spoil it, as I urge all to pick up his run, as it is one of the best and most definitive runs of this book. And with '3' coming to conclusion, oh yes...a team member will die! It has been confirmed by Marvel, so I don't expect to be disappointed! Furthermore, Steve Epting has replaced the ever-skilled Dale Eaglesham as artist (with Eaglesham doing great work on Brubaker's 'Steve Rogers Super Soldier' to segue into his 'Incredible Hulk') and Epting delivers the glory that he did on Captain America with Brubaker...his work here is glossy, classic and telling...something that a story involving a guilty Reed, a nervous Sue Storm & an unpredictable Namor needs! And Galactus + Surfer were simply a majestic feat to look at!!! Alan Davis' cover work also stands out...and this is the least of the many good things this book has to offer...Excelsior...9/10


33.Secret Warriors 22 -

This has been a great read at Marvel since the inception of the unit after Secret Invasion. The espionage and spy-thrill with Fury, HYDRA and Leviathan have been rousing with many twists, reveals and shocking turns...all making for a well crafted read by Hickman. I find this his best book and it's the way it all seems to be fit on a secret flowchart waiting to come together that I love...like it's a big riddle or equation waiting to be solved! Hickman slowed the pace down over the past few months on the book, as he did admit the scope of 60 issues he had, now needed to be condensed into a shorter 27 issue run, which he has full control creatively over! Thus, he needed to condense story plots and arcs, and speed up threads...and this is done well...as many answers are coming out in action packed sequences! Heroes and villains are coming out of the shadows and some are even dying! Great plot, great dialogue...and I wished Marvel gave him his full 60 issues to work with, as I throughly enjoyed this book. Hickman handled the new characters pretty well, but it's his lovely grip on Nick Fury that keeps us coming back for more. This issue has resolution in some doses, with some intriguing consequences and warfare, and the pace never slows...It just gets faster by the turning page. Alessando Vitti's art as usual is inconsistent but the story plotted is way better than expected, and takes away from any visual mishaps, though I wished Stefano Caselli would be here to finish this book as he did marvelous work here! Also, Jim Cheung's covers are worth it just for a gape, and I gladly rate this...8.5/10

34.Secret Avengers 07 -

It's great work as usual by Ed Brubaker who has been outstanding on this book, bringing over relevant threads from his 'Marvel's Project' and 'Steve Rogers: Supersoldier' works. It's good to see the skilled work he does on Captain America get transferred to his espionage thriller, with a unique roster that I didn't find too attractive at first. I'm still wondering what will happen with Nova after his cosmic spiral, and what of Rhodey? I'm sure Brubaker will be able to answer these questions pretty soon as his story picks up a beat or two again! Shang Chi, Prince of Orphans and some nefarious villains, along with Rogers' team, are all well drawn by Deodato, as he and Beredo use amazingly dark colors to show the grit of this book. A cool interrogation scene also shows this book isn't our typical Avengers! Eric O' Grady also makes a key battle move in this book, as the art and story all compliment each other well, amidst a lot of wicked fight scenes! It's a top quality read, and with a killer solid steel last page, it makes for an eager need for the next issue! Nice to see Rogers turning into the next Nick Fury, with matching villains in his stead. I give this...9.0/10

35.Invincible Iron Man 32 -

Matt Fraction hasn't really impressed me too much on this book. He and Salvador Larocca do craft nice tales but the slow pacing and turmoil before we get to the pertinent action really drags me down. I did enjoy the escape from Norman Osborn's clutches recently, but I felt that the Siege-tie in to this book was way underwhelming and could have been done better. Fraction is also good on UXM and Thor, but I know he could be much better...and this stands true for this book also. Matt does indeed blow me away and step up in what I found to be the best issue on this book I ever read! Not only does Larocca deliver an unblemished glorious book of art, but the plot Fraction penned picks up majestically. The action he scripts is magnificent as we see a lot of relevant faces and heroes pop up in this book, and I'm not speaking about the Avengers! We get a dire sense of death coming out of the mire, and to see Tony and his fellow IronMen go after a unique set of villains is all a good read! Jamie McKelvie also delivers a grand backup feature that isn't backup at all! It's a grand ending, a brilliant countdown...and an impending sense of doom amidst so many familiar faces to Tony Stark. I give this...9.5/10

36.Captain America 612 -

It's a draconian scheme that's playing out in this book, all sewn by the most fitting of villains in Baron Zemo. It's nice to see such a keen villain for Captain America leave a book in such disarray, yet he doesn't even need to factor in these issues with an appearance! After Zemo's vague and controversial return to Marvel's Universe, he has left Bucky exposed as Steve's replacement Cap, and furthermore, exposed him as the Soviet Assassin, the Winter Soldier. This led to Bucky on trial to atone and answer for his crimes past...But this issue isn't one of Brubaker's best as it simply is a whiny drag-out of how much Steve wants Bucky to be cleared of charges, and Bucky realizes the grass is greener with a shield outside of prison, which we saw in the last issue and thus there's no serious progress.
Basically...the issue's most important and relevant pages are the last 2 which feature a villain born from the ashes! It's nice to see this villain colluding with a past one that's fun to gaze upon. The manner in which both villains run free and escape to form their alliance and more...is a bit weak but I'll overlook it for the sake of some needed suspense! This issue has a lot of unnecessary filler, but it's complimented well by the lovely dark edgy work of Butch Guice, and he's ideal a substitute for Epting. I expect much more from this book in the next issue as the wheels are turning at high velocities, and it looks bleak for Barnes. My score...6.0/10

37.Brightest Day 15 -

This issue is drawn by Pat Gleason mostly and only till the final few pages do we see a new artist make this book gleam again. I was turned off a lot by Gleason's work here, not because I'm not a fan, but because I expected someone else to deliver such a spectacle of a Red Planet. I felt Gleason's depiction of this world, its people and heroes to be too mundane...and Reis would be the guy I'd have gone to. That said, Gleason wasn't terrible but he isn't my cup of tea here. I do hope he and Tomasi raise the bar when they come to 'Batman and Robin'! As for the story itself, Johns and team do a nice tale here, but again, it seems they looked at 'Inception' just before! It's a cool script that's chock full of eloquence and meaning, but it seemed that some of fans' relevant attention may be cast on other more likable plots in Brightest Day. This tale shows Jonn living the life as Mars' Saviour and hailed in reverence with his JLA teammates. Sad to say, it's a bit of 'Murder she wrote' as we deviate down the line...It's a nice escape but we know where this story is going, no surprise as it's one ending for this Jonn issue! The last few pages bring us to a thread that I'm keenly intrigued by in this book, and also shows 2 JLA members that surprise us with their popping up! I'm more looking forward to the Firestorm, Aqualad and Deadman plots more so than the bigger character plots such as Jonn, the Hawk-lovers etc...and it seems that Johns will be whetting my appetite next issue. I score this at...6.5/10

38.Heroes for Hire 01 -

DnA have been the guys who have made the already impressive work that Giffen and his squad did on Marvel Cosmic, seem average...as their cosmic works and events have shown them to be the best team writers of the past 10 years, and no one writes an ensemble squad like they do! DnA really has impressed me with all recent stuff and the events such as War of Kings, Realm of Kings, and threads started since Secret Invasion and beforehand, all culminated in this Thanos Imperative! Their array of villains and the heroic assests that they boast and write from Nova to the Guardians to the Shiar to the Inhumans etc are all stuff of cosmic legend! Thanos Imperative has seen rave reviews for its 6th issue, and I begged for DnA to take an Avengers book from Bendis. I got this H4H book, and with Brad Walker, a former Guardians artist with them, they simply knocked this issue out the park. Walker draws space tales with a lovely atmosphere and edge, but his street works here are very eye-catching! It's some nice artwork, and DnA expands on this brilliantly. The plot is full of a nice cast, and the riveting action plays off well, as we see Misty Knight hiring a series of heroes for some street-level crime stopping. It's a simple plot, but with a nice cast so well scripted and some secrets hiding here and there, it digests smoothly! Not only does this book promise some other intriguing members to come in in the following issues, but the final page is killer as we see a villain that's been absent for a while, and seems to be cooking a deviously nefarious plot. They get the best out of the heroes they pen and this is a solid debut that ranks at at...8.5/10

39.Shadowland 5 -

Ed Brubaker and Brian Bendis have been remarkable as Frank Miller on the DD book in my humble opinion, and in addition to some lovely arcs, they left Matt Murdock in some places that really seemed bleak. Andy Diggle and Andy Johnston now had the task of seeing Matt in one of his darkest hours ever, leading the Hand, and under the control of the evil Beast! Sad to say, with Daredevil seemingly turning villainous, the lack of depth into the Beast itself didn't bode well, and with a much hyped and much advertised event coming in, the plethora of tie-ins, also heaped on an event that seemed too big a scope for the guys involved! Diggle impressed me on Losers, T-Bolts and usually does great stuff, but even with the elegant De la Torre artist on his DD book, he falters badly. Shadowland didn't hit the nigh notes, and this issue features too much Avengers fighting, and less delving into Matt, his true inner demons, and his friends! The work Tan does is average at best with awkward faces and poses, and lacks the finish he did recently on Thor! Poor dialogue as seen with Ghost Rider, Foggy, Matt, Elektra and many others in the script...all compound the misery here! The bad art and weak script leads to a trite attempt to show Matt fighting a few inner demons, and also we don't get more insight into the Beast, the evil members of the Hand, as well as Izo. This should have focused more on the DD cast, but it didn't and with a weak Houdini move at the end, the epilogue isn't surprising at all, and it's a huge anti-climax. The only pleasant point here was the Kingpin's machinations and his team he's got behind him, but other than that, this DD plot was poorly executed. The replacement books with Black Panther and Matt Reborn are already in ads, so again...this end was no shocker to an event that started well, but turned into an Avengers trying to stop brainwashing in NYC! It's weak and sadly disappointing...3.5/10

40.Thor: For Asgard 5 -

The cover impresses me...Simone Bianchi not only remains one of my epic faves at Marvel sine his AXM days, but his covers always rock! His Siege ones, the new Black Panther ones, and basically, all covers I see by him, especially his Wolverine ones, are exquisite...but what's mindblowing, is that some of his best interior work, even better than AXM, comes here in this issue. His Thor, Balder, and the villains present are all done so spectacularly that he doesn't even need to show Asgard's background to impress...quite an elegant feat indeed. Rodi disappoints on his Astonishing Thor #1 but in this series, he's spot on and does remarkably well with a grand roster cast and some amazing exchanges and interludes with his array of Asgardians. The plight of the Gods is well done, and seeing not too much Loki, with more focus on Thor's failures is quite enterprising. Odin's debacle is endearing also and a nice asset that underlies a dark tone to this book! Rodi scripts the Asgardians so well that I got flashes of JMS, but it may have been the brilliance of Bianchi, with amazing colors and inking to add to the mix. This story is one of slow progression but the creative team is that good that I rate this...8.0/10

41.Ultimate Spider Man 150 -

Special edition issue, and I digress first by stating that the backup feature is one of Bendis' best ever works on USM and shows that despite his teenybopper methods to this book and any shortcomings he may have had, he was the ideal guy to helm this series. The last few pages of the backup are complimented with amazing script dialogue and a grand art scheme, with such homage and loyalty to the entity that is Spiderman, that it doesn't matter if it's UU or 616...this backup is perfect and the epitome of Peter...and by backup, I mean a gracious and well plotted bonus script. Kudos for the effort as it was simply epic and stuff of legend!
As for the issue itself, it was one that tries to solve the problem that plagues USM constantly...How to deal with a superhero kid that causes more and more damage every day despite his noble intentions? We see SHIELD addressing this issue under Danvers and the Ultimates trinity, and we get some nice separated stories. It's Bendis at his best here, and there are so many amazing artists featured in this book, I implore all to buy it as it's a great way to spend 10 mins. The cliffhanger isn't a surprising climax as avid readers would have seen it miles away, and despite not addressing the Gwen issue, we get a nice buildup into where Pete's future lies, but with DEATH OF USM touted by Marvel, could it be something more drastic that the future of this book holds? This issue is spectacular in art and plot, so simply I urge you...buy cuz it's a...9.0/10

42.Daredevil 512 -

Shadowland started with a nice premise but fumbled into a demonic possession plot, that did not materialize well at all. The characterizations, dialogue etc were off in this series, and usually Diggle/Johnston/De la Torre impress me on this book, but their muffled work recently has left me yearning for Brubaker or Bendis/Maleev again. Shadowland mucked up to me, and this book serves as an epilogue of sorts to 'Shadowland 5' whose ending was utterly horrific. This book slightly improves, with the best scenes coming from Matt's law acquaintanceship such as Foggy and Dakota! It's nice to see a nod to Black Tarantula, but the vagueness regarding White Tiger, the origins of the Beast, Izo, and how the Hand fell so easily...remains a weak spot in this issue! Also, Luke Cage and Danny Rand make some very drab appearances here with no real catharsis emerging when we see the new guardian of Hell's Kitchen, and with no real explanation offered...I miss Rand as DD during the Civil War, as I think Marvel is copping out with an uninteresting and uninspiring choice to replace Matt. It's illogical thus far and one I think comes due to the Heroes for Hire books out, as certain relevant heroes aren't available for this book. I'd have liked Shang Chi! Also, the lack of resolution and explanation with Matt leaving the city bodes more for a mysterious element than one of remorse, guilt and redemption, and these traits I hope are picked up on in 'Daredevil Reborn' when Matt dons the guise in a new city in 2011. Somehow, I think the plot with Det. Kurtz and the thread surrounding Kingpin and his new crew will be the strongpoint to focus on in the New Year. Let's hope they get back to formula and make this book impress again ...6.0/10

43.Shadowland: After the Fall -

Johnston and De la Torre get the chance to make the finale of Shadowland seem poignant and impressive after the event basically underwhelmed most who drew interest in it. Suffice it so say that a weak possession arc for Matt Murdock isn't what die-hard Frank Miller/Kevin Smith/Ed Brubaker/Brian Bendis fans had in mind when we saw Matt in charge of the Hand. Shadowland turned out to be a minuscule setting and dire battlefield for a plethora of heroes and villains to show up and engage in thugged out combat. The aftermath is well handled as we see nice interplay between Kurtz, Foggy and the NYPD in the wake of Hell's Kitchen going awry. The crescendo to the end of this issue is slow and somewhat monotonous, but it's well suited for De La Torre's dark angst. Diggle will definitely be taking Murdock to new pastures in 2011, and inevitably he will return to his home, but I'd like to see the purported spin on the new guardian of Hell's Kitchen as it's yet to be clear why this certain face is prowling around as a replacement for Daredevil. With David Liss writing and Fran Francavilla on art for the new DD book, I expect impressive things but this particular issue manages some credence in redeeming a failed event in my humble opinion ...6.5/10

44.Batman and Robin 18 -

Paul Cornell does manage to improve from his last issue of this book, and it does seem that he'd probably offer better work if he wasn't limited to a filler run while Tomasi/Gleason work out their other Brightest Day/GLC stuff, but again, this arc focuses on a comically conceived villain with the poorest of reasons, lamest of intentions and simply...a checkered and uninteresting background. Crazy ex-girlfriend is unconventional in the Bat-World but sad to say, while Grant M may have pulled it off, Cornell barely manages to skim and float the surface, and the water he's treading is somewhat less choppy as McDaniel/Jones improve on their woeful art in the previous issue. This book is barely exciting but it does have its moments, as we see Damian getting a lesson in growing up and falling for women, and we also see a fun last page that does incite me to come in for the next issue, but again, I expected more from the usually solid Cornell...6.5/10

45.Batman 705 -

It's no shocker that I'm a Tony Daniel fan when he writes Batman, or draws it...and color me giddy that he's on double duty here, and not missing a beat and he pumps out another amazing issue etched with fun dialogue, exciting panels, glorious action...and over the top art! He's way impressive here, and I think he's just laying the foundation! He makes Grayson fun and cavalier yet never loses the detective aspect of this book, reminiscent to Scott Snyder's amazing 'Det Comics' debut! Peacock and Sensei all lurk in this issue as we see threads from a previous Ra's arc come full circle, complimented by some awesome artwork. Daniel reminds me why I LOVED Battle for the Cowl, he just brings his A-game and delivers solid stories atop a grand scheme of sketching and colors. This is a fun ride, and if you find yourself flailing, then the last page hits you like a bucket of cold water on a Sunday morning...It's a grand end to an enthusiastically pleasing issue...9.0/10

46.The Flash 07 -

Manapul isn't on interiors here but Scott Kollins maintains the high standard of art in this book, and it's not a book with Barry Allen...not even a glimpse. This is all about Digger Harkness, and shows a well illustrated in-depth delving into the past of Captain Boomerang as we see Johns illuminate certain secrets. Kollins makes the book incandescently pleasing to read, and Boomerang's past is shown with a certain gloom yet it's artistically gleeful when we see him on his secret mission due to the Brightest Day resurrections. He goes behind the Rogues' backs and it's a magnificent trip as it reminds us of the dynamic that the Rogues have as a group, and the dynamic of the selfishness that they individually possess. What's more irking is that Boomerang unleashes a villain that's so well drawn, it's scary as hell, and with connections coming strongly into Brightest Day, you get the feeling that Johns and DC are tying things together to make 2011 sparkle and pop...maybe crack a bit too. Boomerang finds himself in the most difficult of situations at the end of this issue, and with his actions in this issue...expect severe consequences...9.5/10

47.Ultimate Avengers v3 Issue 4 -

The artistic team of Steve Dillon/Matt Hollingsworth/Andy Lanning isn't enough to make Mark Millar's drab vampire arc seem a bit exhilarating. I'm usually a Millar fan but his Ultimate-U work recently has been very below par, and this vampire arc is as boring to me as the Twilight films. Gischler and Medina are doing well on the X-Men/Vamp tales but sadly, the twists and turns, and overall scheme of things in this book is very struggled. Even the likes of Hulk and Cap under the vamp-virus isn't enough to maintain a strongly keen interest, and although the interchanges between the Stark Brothers do manage to breathe some life into this book, this arc is a long way off from being remotely positive. Even the attempts of Blade and Kid DD to inject humor falls remarkably flat on its face, and the opening sequence of this book, does set the mood for a weak issue...4.0/10

48.New Avengers 07 -

Bendis plots out a script with not one ounce of action, but that doesn't mean there isn't intrigue, humor and a fascinating read. This comes in abundance as Bendis shows his skill at storytelling with simply one character facial expressions and amazing dialogue. The centre-spread with the interviewees to be the new nanny for the daughter of Luke Cage and Jess Jones, is by far one of Marvel's best this year. The appearance of Darkhawk and his 'Defenders' comment to Tigra to Echo, all amaze with quippy elements, and the choice for a nanny is even more arousing once you see Wolverine's reaction. That's the tip of the iceberg as salaries roll in and certain Webheads are in dire straits...and seeing Victoria Hand and Jess Jones take control and lay the smackdown on the men of the New Avengers is simply priceless. In the aftermath of a supernatural wreck, it's good to see Strange join up as this issue bodes a dark future somehow you'd think for a team that's as infant and juvenile as they get...Immonen is spot on as always and he's off to a bigger project Marvel touts, so we get Deodato back again, and hell yeah to that...9.0/10

49.Thor 618 -

I've been begging for Fraction to speed up the pace of this book, and he does so impressively while using the full cast of this book to glorious extent. With refugees coming to Asgard's doors and the World Eaters on the loose, it's Ferry's art that is majestic and wondrous as we see Balder and his squad buckle till the intervention of Thor and a certain brother! The plot thickens well as haven is found on Asgard and it's a typical king in Thor, despite not holding the crown. It's clear Asgard needs help, and while Stark and some other Midgardians offer assistance, Thor goes to ground zero...and gets the help from the one and only...well...just see the cover of this issue and you'll get the point! Fraction is pulling out the big players and if the forthcoming issues are anything like this one, I'm definitely not missing an issue...9.5/10

50.Brightest Day 16 -

Tomasi and Johns are picking up the pace here and with Reis, Clark and Prado firing on all cylinders, this is one of the best issues of this book! The origins of Aqualad is well played out as we see Aquaman being the typical kingly liege to Jackson Hyde. There's history and secrets revealed and it all translates well to us, especially as Aquaman has to convince Jackson to follow a proposed destiny! There are a lot of revelations here that may well have severe repercussions but what makes this issue complete is the ghastly eerie Deathstorm. The interactions with his hostages are very well played out amidst the dark terror that made Blackest Night artwork seem a spectacle to behold. Deathstorm is one of the most fearsome, if not the most fearsome, in the Brightest Day tales, and seeing Ronnie/Jason struggle with their need for assistance from the JLA is even more highlighted by Johns' amazing wordplay! The writers are spot on and getting the job done right here, and the art is well done...so if you want a bang for your buck, just read this issue...literally...9.5/10

51.Generation Hope #2 -

Kieron Gillen impressed me on the debut issue of this book, and I expect him to succeed Fraction on UXM, thus it's nice to see him with a handle of the 5 Lights, as well as Cyclops, Wolverine and Rogue, in this issue. However, he flounders in writing Cyclops as it isn't the military stronghold tactician that Fraction and recent X-writers have made Summers into. Gillen's version seems to be winging it and fumbling through the mission, and the same is said for Logan and Rogue! Gillen doesn't nail the experienced members well, but still he manages to make the Lights work, as his grasp on them is strong. Kenji is the star of this issue, and while Espin's art is inconsistent at best, he nails the opening scenes with Hope and Kenji. This issue is a bit anti-climatic at its finish but Gillen barely manages enough to keep the ship afloat, but after losing the amazing steam he had on the first issue, I have full faith in him being able to bring this anchor back up and let the sails ride high in the wind. He has the talent to make this book topnotch, but he better act fast...6.0/10

52.Green Lantern 60 -

Don't let the enigmatic Frank Quitely cover fool you...for the battles we get in this book make this issue a legendary one in the past 5 years. In fact, it's a pleasure to rate this the best GL issue of the past half-decade! The action is non-stop and the writing is immaculate. The script ties in to many threads with Sinestro's daughter, Atrocitus' pact with Guy and Ganthet, but in reality, it's all about Hal Jordan going toe-to-toe with a grand villain, and it seems this villain may be more devilish than Nekron! Hal encounters Parallax possessing Barry Allen and Geoff Johns makes the exchange between these 2 one of the best reads in a while! When Hal indicates that Parallax may well fear the lantern, all gloves come off, as Parallax goes beserk! But it's the presence of the other Entities that make the book better as they and their avatars of the respective lantern tribes come into the fray, and try to aid Hal against Parallax. But note that the villain I mention isn't Parallax...but one of the oldest and most important in GL lore! The final page is killer as we see who is the midget capturing the entities, and his setup is amazing as he tricks all the lantern corps into bringing the entities to his call and beckon! His duplicity and machinations come abound in the glorious spread by artist Doug Mahnke as this villain literally chains and latches the entities! It's a jaw dropping final page, and fans of the film should take note that this issue has more than 1 key panel for the movie...and it's great to finally read an issue that gets another 10, and I'm not shocked it's this artist and writer that nails the win...10/10

53.Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #5 -

This book has strong ties to Green Lantern 60, which I won't spoil, but the big reveal in issue 60 has repercussions in this tale that has Guy, Ganthet and Atrocitus in a world of worry. Their pact is still vague but it's painted on a bloody tapestry that hints a little to 'War of the Green Lanterns! But while this pact plays off to strong extents, it's Kilowogg's despair as younger lanterns are tricked by another demonic villain into committing some horrendous acts. Arisia and Guy are all in this mess with Kilowogg, and with Pasarin's art impressive on this book, it's nice to see Tomasi swing the focus from Guy to Kilowogg to the certain villains again, and it's consistently good to view! With the team investigating the villain whose hold on Green Lanterns run mentally deep, it seems that the pact Guy made is gonna be out in the open very soon, and the future looks too grim...for Lanterns, Guardians and all the corps out there...the Universe isn't too well off these days it seems...8.5/10

54.Uncanny X-Force #3 -

Opena continues to marvelously wow us with his work here, and it's great to see him and Remender continuously delivering appreciated volumes of intelligent work. With Remender on Punisher and the revamped Venom, it's clear that his work here will attract even more to an already well-established fan-base. This book glistens and gleams as Opena takes the well-plotted script and brings the moon-based battle to life with such an elegant ease that it sparkles, and given the eerie cast involved...it's a grand feat. The backdrop into the new Horsemen is well crafted and they prove to be too strong for X-Force, till we see some crafty Fantomex manipulations. Logan and Psylocke don't even get a chance to steal the scenes of this book, as that's left to Remender's ever-improving take on Deadpool, who appears a la Mitch Buchanna to a sordid Archangel, and a sly Minotaur figure who seems lost in love. The innocent yet disturbed reincarnation of Apocalypse also makes for a great read as his surrounding minions are spoken for quite well by the creative team. It's a busty action packed issue and the mouth-watering final page shows that this team isn't undefeatable, but they rock at improvisation. Here's to hoping they never come out to the mass public...9.0/10

55.Thunderbolts 151 -

Kev Walker's art is one of the grand finds this year for me, as it's fun, witty, sketchy but severely exacting in its serious demeanor! It's punk rock art to me, and the point that this isn't a BS book is well translated! Walker never falters when he's on this book with Parker, and both are proving to be a hit on this series, as they know they've some big footsteps to follow as past creative teams have been immaculate on this book. That said, Walker and Parker, continue to knock it out of the park, as we see a basic character history in that of Ghost, and it's severely disturbing yet it gives a sense of humanity, and doesn't force you to feel sympathy for one of the most dangerous villains in Marvel's past year. It's bittersweet as you can't help feel sorry for Ghost, but you know sooner or later he will help combust this team. It's fun also seeing the nicely drawn Moonstone feel weirded out, as Parker drives home the point that while we're taking a break to focus on Ghost, there's big action coming...and big action calls for one more big gun to the table, especially with Crossbones out of sync these days...and the new addition is really a pleasant surprise...9.0/10

56.Stan Lee's Soldier Zero #3 -

Paul Cornell failed to impress me on the first 2 issues of this book, and while I'm keen on his Action Comics run, this BOOM title is similar to his Batman and Robin - it's merely average work from a guy I expect great stories from. There's barely any progress in the 3rd issue and when it does happen here, it's so forced and trite. The interrogations, dealings and arguments with the protagonist's brother, as well as the damsel in distress issue, all feel underplayed and lacking, and it's sad that Sergio Arino's art offers nothing to pick the readers up. The final page is meant to be a huge climax but falls flat on its face as it's the product of another hugely disappointing issue. Again, I beg for readers to simply read a Darkhawk issue or 2 from Marvel and that would be what the creators meant for this book, and sad to say, they are missing the target by miles on this title...4.0/10

57.What If - SpiderMan: Grim Hunt -

With Paul Azaceta on the creative team alongside Sable and Mossa, you'd think this would prove to be somewhat interesting but just like many 'What If's', this issue falls flat on its face with terrible art, and a storyline that does not make an ounce of sense whatsoever. It's elementary and weak to see Peter make decisions as he does in this book with no rationale or logic, and the snowball that bumbles to form leads to disastrous turns and events in Peter's life and one must ask - how is it sensible for this snowball to form from such a series of unfortunate events? It makes no sense, and the fallout of Pete's decisions is simply an aberrational script that should have been dumped. How this made it to the printing press, I'll never know, but I can say for sure, it's a terrible read and one of the worst for 2010...3.0/10

58.Batman Inc #2 -

Grant Morrison has won accolades from reviewers and websites in 2010 for his Batman work and especially his 'Return of Bruce Wayne' arc but as an avid reader who didn't fancy this plot that much, it was a stepping stone to a drive that has me more excited in Batman Inc. Issue 1 was very neatly done and this follow up is as intricate and well planned as you'd expect. Paquette continues to demonstrate why he's a top gun at DCU as he shines in the Asian city and settings; as he depicts Batman and a gloriously drawn Catwoman trying to save the city and its innocents from the nefarious Lord Death Man. Jiro, the body double to Mr. Unknown, also factors in with brilliance in this issue as we see Bruce expand his Batman Inc family with a determined feverence. There are nicely plotted action scenes by the creative team with a morgue plot that is typical of the ghoulish panels that Morrison needs in his stories, and it's all pulled off dramatically well. Selina Kyle shares some intimate scenes with Bruce as Paquette shines on further more, and with the Mr. Unknown saga extended to Jiro, despite an underwhelming end to Lord Death Man's arc thus far, the end of this issue is plain and simple...and very easily segues into a tale for an Argentine hero...7.5/10

59.Avengers Academy #7 -

Christos Gage expands nicely on some dangling plot threads with Tigra and her son, William, with such a pleasant ease that it's more than rewarding to have waited since Secret Invasion's skrull reveals. Gage also dominates with one of the best Pym issues I have ever read as he nails a perfect and emotionally riveting exchange with Tigra, as well as a wonderful sonnet of an issue with Hank's yearning for Janet, all done in a ballad of a dialogue! This issue doesn't focus too much on anyone but Hank, and it's nice to see Absorbing Man tossed in to make everyone hurt physically and leaving it up to Giant-Man to save the day. The manner in which Hank does in certainly inventive and a nice sight for his fans. This is a welcome respite to the dramatics of the kids at the academy but any drama that was left out is soon picked up on in the final page. Absorbing Man vs the New Warriors? It's a must read and Raney/Meikis/Hanna/Cox are an art team that did exceptional work in the stead of Mike McKone...8.0/10

60.Black Panther: Man without Fear #513 -

After Shadowland ended, Matt Murdock has gone onto newer pastures to achieve redemption and be reborn, and I do hope he returns, especially with 'Fear Itself' coming in 2011. It was also interesting to see the deconstruction of T'challa since Dark Reign, and while Doomwar was decent, his handling of Wakanda's affairs have seen his sister installed as the New Panther, and with the Vibranium issue hitting home hard, T'challa has headed to Hell's Kitchen to find himself again, without all the tricks and gadgets he once owned. Basically he's Daredevil meets Moon Knight meets Batman, but more of a gadgets-free brawler. I disliked this selection of T'challa to replace Murdock as I backed Falcon, but Liss crafted a great issue and it's protagonist will have a lot of problems while keeping his hands full here in Hell's kitchen. Liss does well to humanize T'challa and show the plight that is building in NYC. Simone Bianchi's cover is well extended by Fran Francavilla's noirish style art that caught my eye in the new Detective Comics under Snyder. There are lots of criminals and problems that Panther faces and it's great to see him more man than superhuman...and with him going to street level roots, there is a lurking enemy that seems prepared to give him a strong fight. This issue was a surprising breath of fresh air and seeing Murdock ask Panther to look after his town, and seeing T'challa and Storm make certain sacrifices, indeed make an emotionally accepting tale of redemption and sacrifice, and I can't wait for the next read...8.5/10

61.X-Factor #212 -

Lupaccinho and his art team are consistently crafty here as usual, and again, Hela shows her bust throughout...and it's quite a shocker that Longshot or Rictor didn't get in her pants...so to speak. Instead Madrox and company enter Hela's web of deceit as we see her machinations to bring Thor out. The subterfuge is well done and with such a ruse underway, it's great to see all of X-Factor bask in awe of Thor, and with the duplicitous nature of Hela's intentions standing revealed, Darwin steals the spotlight as David continues to write some deafening issues. It's topnotch as he lays a Darwin thread that bodes ominous for future issues, and we see Hrimhari giving the team a huge revelation that isn't shocking to avid X-fans. While the Darwin thread may be throwing us for a loop and a huge stretch, it's plain joyous a twist, and further more, is Layla's sinister movements in this issue. David lays more loose dangling threads out and it does keep you invested...9.0/10

62.Green Lantern: Larfleeze Xmas Special -

Geoff Johns takes time out his busy schedule to give us a holiday treat and fun is the keyword here as Larfleeze's greed highlights the issue. The avarice avatar is on a hunt for Santa for stiffing him his gifts, and it's a humorous ride without the sleigh. Agent Orange goes on a quest countrywide to find Santa and upon his havoc-filled ride, he heads to the North Pole where he gets taught a lesson in Xmas spirit. Brett Booth's colors and art are sparkling here and I hope he gets a crack at more Lantern books in 2011, as we see Larfleeze realize that some things may matter more than others when it comes to Xmas...8.5/10

63.Green Lantern Corps #55 -

The art done by Kirkham/Batt is one of the most clean and exquisite sets I've seen on this series for quite some time, and they pull it off with an effortless gleam. Seeing the Lantern Honor Guards Hannu, Stewart and Ganthet come into play against a maniacal and calculating Weaponer, they're all are drawn magnificently. This battle sequence is one of the topnotch ones this year and it all comes full circle when Ganthet expands on the secret pact with Guy and Atrocitus. The Lanterns are all in shock while the Weaponer gloats upon an even bigger victory than he expected. There are nice inklings set in with the other inhabitants of Qward coming into the fray, while Kyle continues his quest for Soranik, the romance isn't expanded upon much as there is nothing but dire doom and threat impending for this planet and its people. The Weaponer along with the Green Lanterns have a lot to contend with as we see a final page, minus a certain corps Leader, signalling nothing but bad intentions for the next issue...9.0/10

64.Superior #3 -

DC writers need to be very wary here...this issue picks up on an amazing issue 2 where Superior learns how to use his powers, and this issue 3 shows us...exactly what Superman would do in a modern comic had he just become our saviour! Millar nails a perfect Superman comic without a Superman character! It's a stroke of pure masterful genius, and it's a dime! This is the extra few pages that I'd have loved in JMS' Earth-1, but I'm glad we see Yu splash out a collage of breath-taking work...and Millar doesn't stutter with a drastically uplifting script...A helluva issue with a great final page that is a bit predictable but soooo Mark Millar...9.5/10

65.Nemesis #4 -

Millar went over the top in issue 3 and I waited to see if he would redeem himself here but sadly, it falls flat. There isn't the packing punch or gusto that he usually ends with, and despite the montage of violence and obvious plot twists, you'd think somewhere a deus ex machina comes abound to breath life into this script. It's bland and mundane, and this also stands for the under-par work of McNiven whose work here with this book is bright and not like his awesome darker Marvel works. Both Millar and McNiven are capable of much more, and this book begs for them to get another crack at the whip, not because they rocked it, but to prove to us that they're better than what they offered. The concept at the end of what Nemesis really stands for was quite welcome, but as interesting as it is, Millar missed a great opportunity here I felt to kick ass on this book, and the reasons behind the initial uproar over this menace to society was quickly washed out the window to a sense of a random wanton love for chaos and anarchy! It's Heath's Joker all over again...and the Nemesis reveal at the end as to the why and the what that is going on...it's one that comes too late...6.5/10

66.FF4 #586 -

Steve Epting takes on a great Hickman script and does what they do best - bring an A+ game to a book that needed this shock of life! From an eerie arc with Reed, Surfer and Galactus and some dramatic consequences, to the ramifications of Namor's tiff undersea with Susan in protective mode, to the raid at the Baxter Building by Annihilus' drones, it's a non-stop pace with action galore. Exquisite art is what Epting delivers and he trumps his past Cap work, and that's such a brilliant feat, that it overshadows the architect in Hickman whose rise to prominence in MU is one of legend thus far with its rapid beat! A great creative team, and a great story...and come next issue...there's a casualty beckoning, Johnny Storm much?...9.0/10

67.What If - Norman died in Dark Reign -

Takeda's art makes me miss her covers and interiors from the recently cancelled Ms. Marvel books, as I love her anime style and coloring. Henderson's script however is bland and drab, and this doesn't make Takeda shine sadly. The plot is that Barton kills Osborn, but rather than show how this literally affects the scope of Dark Reign on the entire MU, we get Clint replacing Harrison Ford in the Fugitive. There isn't a sense of direction and it's easily shown. It's a muddle of a plot, and a total mess as we don't get any impact onto the status quo of Marvel with Osborn's death, and to say that shows just how much of a sham this book really is...3.0/10

68.Secret Avengers #8 -

The cover art beckons a stand-alone juncture depicting raw action and pure energy with a plain ferocity that is as bold as Brubaker writes. The interior work that Beredo and Deodato follow up with never strays from this already-set high standard of art! The colors, inking and overall look give a feel of pure espionage and a subtle heroic vibe that is well played off in the dark ambiance that the creative team plots. The atmosphere is sneaky with Deodato and Beredo doing their utmost best with Architect Brubaker's consistently top quality scripts! Brubaker chooses villains that whether we see fight scenes in WW2 or in present times, it's all such a blurry fuzz of fun, you can't help but have a ball! This is what makes this book the successor to Dark Avengers in its own unique way and a total pleasure in 2010!
It's great to see John Steele, Max Fury, Shang Chi, Chi's estranged father, the Shadow Council, Prince of Orphans and last but not least, Sharon Carter, receive a fair amount of screen time on paper. Bru has taken obscure characters from muddled pasts and made them stars in this ever-interesting book! With 'Fear' on the horizon, Brubaker does his best to show that Steve Rogers is anew in his new role in MU with his threats to kill...yes...kill...a villain! It's passionate and desperate...and exactly what this book calls for. It's an Ocean's 13 misdirection plot, dare I say 'looky-loo' and with that final page being a simple elementary criminal caper, it's nice to see such an action pack book end on such a productively vile note...9.0/10

69.IDW's The Cape #1 -

This origin story is about the wee little protagonist, Eric, who after a immensely unique foray into something more than magical, ends up suffering a tragic fall, and then...he goes from young, wee lad to adult loser. And it's all done with tact, good taste and a sense of realism that reminded me of some Mark Millar works. In my books, that's a huge compliment to writer Joe Hill and his adapting scribe, Jason Ciaramella! Locke and Key was one IDW gem, but here this 'one-shot' spouts some amazing dialogue in what seems to be echoes of many maturing young folks in society today. Zach Howard's art is typically sound to sticking us into feeling a sense of sympathy, then to one of disgust, segueing back to sorrow...and then...well we end with a bang...and a villain that we didn't see coming! To see our hero down and out on is luck is one thing, but rediscovering the joys of childhood, while fighting for true love is another. What even speaks better is the fact that we learn a thing about loss...and one or two things about throwing things away! It's a comic that makes us analyze our inner-selves, thoughts, moral code and fabric, and the tapestry of our heart and souls. It struck the right chords with me, and makes us look for some revelation via God's good grace and cathartic pride in that canvas called Humanity! What's top to read is the boss ending that speaks brilliance for IDW's 2011 and a visceral kid in us screaming at the top of his lungs to be all grown up and ever-so in charge. This end of year treat gives me a chance to kick you another dime...10/10

70.Ultimate SpiderMan 151 -

Mark Millar has promised big things post-ultimatum. Bendis too, but Bendis is the one who has made good on this promise with his books. Bendis has plugged Peter into a world of despair and disarray, as usual, and after the Chameleon twin debacle, we got the loss of a runaway Gwen Stacy, and the SpiderFun House tossed into further turmoil! Enter Iron Man, Thor and Cap deciding Parker needs after-school Avenger lessons! We don't get this till the end of the issue, and it's minimal...but a good ploy nonetheless as it focuses on Peter and his friends dealing with new acquaintances, lost friends; and a touching 3 page Aunt May spread begging a desperate plea for her foster daughter to return. Bendis writes the best Gwen ever that I have read, and here he brings an issue chock full of Heart and Soul, that I felt touches of Joy Division's Ian Curtis and Thursday's Geoff Rickly! I was wondering if it was a Brian Vaughn 'Runaways' issue at times!
It's great to see how they all deal with loss, and fun moments add bright spots of wit via Bobby and Johnny, but it's all complimented well by a burglar scheme involving a returning set of villains, with one in particular reminding me of Bruce Wayne's feline gal-pal! Pichelli/Ponsor follow up well to the likes of Lafuente and a returning Mark Bagley, but nonetheless, the high standard of this book is maintained stringently, and I wonder how will the 'Death of Ultimate Spidey' be playing out with such a dramatic hype drive by the Marvel UU team...9.0/10

71.Ultimate Doom #1 -

Ultimate Mystery and Ultimate Enemy were below par, but fast forwarding to now...it's a certain past-hero in Reed Richards, who isn't dead as all thought, but instead is the Enemy that is wreaking havoc in this title for purposes and intent...all unknown! Bendis gives the cutting edge script that this book requires to exceed its weaker predecessors, with the exchange between Sue and Reed, as well as a raging Johnny Storm, all done perfected to a tee...Rafa Sandoval and his team bring a formidable arsenal of artistic talent and unbridled grit, that allows some cutting loose in the UU, and it's fierce work indeed. Sandoval is proving to be a potential successor to Stuart Immonen and he nails his scenes well! The colors and operation of panels, pages, and balloons...all make me giddy to be familiarizing them with those of the acclaimed Pasqual Ferry also!
The heroics of Nova Rick Jones, as well as the distraught Ben Grimm, join a SHIELD team in sheer agony from what Reed has done, and something tells me that the valiant attempts to subdue Reed, has just made things a lot worse! More so than the heroes planned, as the brutally emotional last page depicts...8.0/10

72.Avengers #8 -

By now I thought Bendis would have thrown in the Beyonder in this renewed run of Earth's Mightiest Heroes! I know it's a fun character of his, but with that not occurring, I've gotten doses of Kang, Next Avengers, some timeline teams of heroes and villains, as well as Rulk! I disliked how Rulk fitted into this book, but this issue to me was more about one of my fave things Bendis threw as a spanner in the Avengers' wheels - the Illuminati! This team boasts Stark, Reed, Xavier, Namor, the replacement Inhuman Medusa and Dr. Strange, and it's a helluva reason why they come together! We see Bendis using a villain that isn't going to Grandma's house or to the big bad wolf, to outsmart the ever brilliant Reed Richards, as well as lay the brick-houses of Rulk and Ben Grimm down! The use of Rulk could have been swapped with Thor, but again Bendis tries to lure Rulk and Hulk fans in...and he does so very easily!
The villain is despotic and a true brute as Rulk relays news to the heroes, a far cry from the general tacticioner and revenge-seeking, testosterone fueled behemoth that he usually is, but again...Steve Rogers has more dogs on his leash than Cesar Milan! Bendis also does well to further add Stark to this leash with a true cynical checkmate that I begged for since Rogers' return! Civil War payback! It is quite strange to see the lack of communication between Reed and Stark, as well as Stark's obviously girly and spineless fits of panic, but it's Medusa's revelation that Black Bolt's dead that upsets me! So...Reed didn't know this? Wow...no one on Earth knew? Cuz you'd think Reed would be the first to know? Or has Nova and the other cosmic guys who phone home, simply forgetting to spill that Blackagar is dead? You'd think Crystal and Pietro would be more communicative also. I digress! This leads to another plea for Romita Jr to leave this book, as it doesn't fit him! Such a majestically action packed title begs for Deodato or Cheung or Mcniven, as Romita needs to get on a craftier funny book a la KICKASS 2! The plot of these missing jewels is very intriguing and I wonder how they'll factor in long term, and it's nice to be seeing them in the MU again, especially with Namor apparently finding time to throw Spider-quips back and forth with Iron Man! The last page is a huge one for Avengers lore under Bendis but to my dismay, it's impact is diminished by Romita's art, so rectification is urgent!...7.5/10

73.Green Lantern #61 -

First off, bask in that amazingly arranged Alex Garner cover as it is a celestial derivation of rage! The Gary Frank/Mayor cover is also shuddering with spectacular joy! Alamy and Mahnke follow suit with a spectacle of a read, as they illustrate quite beautifully the works that Johns scripts. He uses Atrocitus and the Spectre to full effect, and past lovers of meetings between these 2, would have whet their appetites to something more tremendous...in the Rage Entity, aptly titled 'the Butcher' going on a red rampage from a convicted killer's rage-induced condemner, to the entity gunning for Atrocitus himself, and in between, the Spectre gets slugged around before he passes judgment! It's all part of Atrocitus' plan to imprison Butcher before the newly revealed Kronas adds him to his list of captured entities! It also borders on the pact that was made with Ganthet and Guy! Things are picking up pace in Brightest Day at DCU, and the scene where Spectre empathizes with Atrocitus, is remarkable. There's a loose sense of sympathy floating around too in this book, despite the war-filled pages highlighting some brilliant red-murky panels by the art team...it's no wonder Blackest Night was a hit under these guys too!
All Lantern books were slowly moving to the sneaky War of Green Lanterns, but the snail pace is going off with the gloves it seems, as we see Atrocitus make a key play here, and Johns does enough to show that with such desperate times, pacts that normally wouldn't be made, as well as blood-filled shortcuts, are going to have to be taken, to preserve the fragility of this universe! It's a dark brooding underlying tone, and the overture that spills over here is that Johns' machinations in this book, are leading to bigger things in the other books. He does well in his crafting, and he's my best writer alongside Hickman for 2010, so it's no surprise that Johns knocks another good read out...8.5/10

74.Detective Comics #872 -

For those who lost faith in Det. Comics, well...Scott Snyder has followed up some intricate works at American Vampire with a retort that makes Detective Comics stand out again...a retort...of darkness, mystery, death and malevolence! Dare I say murder? He puts the Detective back in the title as we see Grayson grow from the cape to the cowl to a detective that seemingly reminds us of a younger Bruce or even rivaling a rasher Tim! He plays off the diligent sketchy tones that Jock sets with the most light-void panels I've seen for a while when it comes to the streets of Gotham! Jock nails it fully, and it rivals his tremendous work on the Losers! Snyder made issue 871 the best batbook of 2010 thus far for me, and I don't see it being topped, but he comes close with this issue! Grayson's romantic notions with Oracle are subtly injected as he enlists her aid, and it's typical banter of the heart, while maintaining the spine of the investigation. It saddened me to not get another gut-wrenching Batman meeting with Gordon but we were provided with sufficient replacement fodder! As Batman disguises himself into a grim underworld auction, some relics that haunt Batbooks till this day come unwound and it's painful to the core to see such handlings! The unsuspecting nature of the trap that is laid for Grayson shows why Snyder is being tipped for a huge 2011 as all facets of his writings scream of reeking improvement and class! Every issue he does, in most of his books, progressively grows better. He's one I expect exponential things from in all endeavors in 2011! His final page is most disheartening...and I loved it!
The second feature continues with Snyder's vein of excellence and it's here that the facets of Fran Francavilla shine, in murkiness and muddled pages! Fran did well on the Black Panther book that saw him replace Daredevil, and here...it's a tragic family meeting between Jim Gordon and Barbara regarding a returned scar of a son that swoons in the readers' minds! It's a flash of the past that has fans drooling, as Fran dips well into making this meeting one of forlorn sorrow! The threadbare nature of Jim's weary heart is brought full circle in yet another killer last page from Snyder...9.0/10

75.The Dark Knight #1 -

Finch somehow managed to transcribe words here that transmitted signals over the air to me, and the reception of these deft wavelengths got strongly to me and etched into my mind...and I surmised...that this was reminding me a lot of how Christian Bale's Batman is in the Nolan-Verse! It's welcome...and endearing to me, as we see Bruce bumble at times, behave tad rash, and sometimes unlike the cool as a cucumber Bruce Wayne that you'd expect for Batman Inc. But things get personal here, as he foregos Dick's Gotham patrol, and gets suited for this fight himself! The supernatural tone Finch promised doesn't come here but again, he takes on the detective mantle well, which I praised Scott Synder for! Finch on art and Scott Williams inking give a nice collage of pages! It's a bright kaleidoscope that is different to me as I recently associate Finch with much darker covers and interiors, bar a few Brightest Day works. He dabbles in a well-laid canvas of a plot in a thick Gotham sauce filled with intrigue, and seeing Batman disappear on Gordon had me remembering the films all over. What a throwback to see that interrogation scene with Croc that reminded me of the film scenes with Flass, Joker and Maroni! I was waiting for him to yell 'I'm the Batman' in a gruff hoarse voice!
It's good to see some Grant Morrison influence on his writing style but I sense more skill being influenced by the prose worthy Frank Miller and Jeph Loeb, who aces Batbooks!
There's a myriad of options to go when you debut a Batbook, but the myopic plot that Finch looks into is terminally concise and to the point, and not a bad thing at all - it gives us some errors in a usually infallible Batman...and it's on purpose...I adore such bold moves! I swore it was a delusional mirage when I saw Killer Croc and Penguin rear their heads, but this was the epitome of Batman on the streets prowling, and while he may be outsmarted a bit here, it's nice to see some souped up villains enter this web of deceit and subterfuge! The duplicitous nature of this book is yet to be revealed to me, and while the thugs on the last page remind me too much of Finch's Aquaman, Cyclops, Ultimate Warren Worthington...I know he can alter his drawings' faces to suit...and I know he can add a slightly darker artistic tone to this book. It's needed, after all...it's a Batbook...it need be dark...even in victory...8.0/10

76.Captain America 613 -

That Djurdjevic cover says it all - Bucky is in the mess! It's a grand scheme to see Brubaker deconstruct Bucky in a mildly similar way that Fraction did to Stark! But Bru is more caring and preserves the mental state of the man who Steve Rogers passed the shield onto and who helped through Secret Invasion, Dark Reign and the Heroic Age. Now Bucky's past as the murderous assassin Winter Soldier is biting him hard, and it was bliss to see his impulsiveness and recklessness echo with his recent interactions with Zemo! With 'FEAR' showing Rogers losing faith with a broken shield, Bru knows the master plan, and he executes this issue not rashly nor timidly, but with utter prudence! It's profound to see Guice and his men translate Sin's dream with her father, the scenes with Falcon and Widow, inclusive of an anti-racist glory of a quip, as well as the violence of Master Man and Sin! That's a bloody romance...literally...and it shows the diverse scope of Bru! The Bucky panels show his mental awareness mired with frustration, and the art team nails all pages! They pull this issue off without a hitch, and seeing Rogers, Faust, the Defense team in court, as well as a lovely incriminating mental institution video, all make Bru look even more dapper on the literary scene! Faust's shock at how Rogers seems more modern a la Nick Fury to help his comrade out highlights this book, which is portraying growth of all its characters, amidst an impending sense of doom, gloom and chaos...and seeing Steve's beliefs taken unrequited by the American law is all accommodating to breaking Bucky down to the core. And it seems the final page shows that Bru is pulling out all the stops...and pulling no punches...9.0/10

77.Ultimate Thor 03 -

Johnathan Hickman and Geoff Johns rocked this year...and Hickman's work at Marvel was compounded by issue upon issue of sheer brilliance! His S.H.I.E.L.D. stuff is the least powerful he does in my view, with FF4, Secret Warriors and now this series, taking the proverbial cake! Hickman treads softly as he weaves webs of sinister acts in this book, as we saw Ultimate Loki revealed as Ultimate Baron Zemo! He impresses greatly as we see Loki using Heimdall's death and the Norn Stones to lead an army of Frost Giants and Nazis to Asgard's doors! He elevates his game from the last issue does Hickman!
Ragnarok comes as promised in the exquisite exchange with Loki and Balder! Pacheco and crew dominate the art from covers to interiors with the eloquence of Hickman trapped in the midst of beautiful coloring/inking! It's a well lit book and the shades of war are done well at Asgard as we see many favorites fall! Asgardians popular to 616 MU fans all get fair page time here, and the art is tough and gritty where needed, as Hickman thrashes out a well concocted war-zone! Thor's lack of perseverance in the battlefield, as well as the impetuous Loki, all lead to the much awaited Odin showdown and while it's not what I imagined, it's what Hickman brought across with a willful ease and slithery style! This was all superbly done, and also resonated in the therapy sessions for Thor, where he's yet to renounce his god-hood! Many questions still are left floundering in my mind, but with Hickman's pace and the good job he's done on this series so far, I've no doubt he will leave them well and fully answered! This issue is a summary of the talent he possesses and it shows why he's such a rapid rising Architect at Marvel...8.5/10

78.Uncanny X-Men 531 -

Matt Fraction traps me sometimes as I feel his scripts get torn between pragmatism and idealism, and it's not for the faint-hearted comic readers! I took a while to warm to his Iron Man and his Thor run under Ferry has now stepped up a notch and flourished in my eyes, but his UXM is either hit or miss, never in between! With 'Fear' coming, and Gillen on Generation Hope, it's good to see them co-writing UXM as it brings a more level look to the scripts, and balances out all the plot threads well. This issue, for example, gives ample time to all arcs, and it evolves well from the previous issue! The story regarding the mutant 'flu' is well engineered and it's nice to see Land's art improve. His penchant for drawing awesome hairstyles and Colgate smiles do take the backseat as his poses and grimaces raise in quality. It isn't his best, but I have seen him do much worse. He's getting there I admit! I do hope to see Gillen take over this book, as he's already embedded in the 5 Lights, and with Fraction's heavy workload, he needs some architectural respite!
Gillen aced Thor and I have already taking a liking to his X-Men forays thus far. Both writers do well with the gregarious X-Men team on San Francisco unaffected by the flu, as we see Storm and Angel marshal younger troops! There are distractions, glitz and glamor on this arc and an unsuspecting ploy by Lobe of the Sublime Corp. to show his version of the original X-Men. This teased encounter is one I can't wait for, as jaws will drop. There is a further petulant tone to this issue as we see many stubborn mutants, namely Wolverine and Namor, act insolent as little kids! It's pride, ego and a want to head to Chinatown to save the day! It's all great work that the writers perform to bring such threads together in harmonious melody! The symphony doesn't end there as the sinister orchestrations of Emma, Kitty and Fantomex come to a most displeasing conclusion. It's unexpected and a bit foolish, but interesting nonetheless! It's here that Land wins with his sexy art highlighted by Emma and her cohorts! Despite the stupidly aloof Fantomex and the annoying Kitty, the writers and artist nail their interpretation of Shaw, with a wicked final panel showing that next issue is all business, and no more fun or games. The high point of this issue is showing the growth of the writers as it's a genius stroke I never saw coming, in Dr. Rao outshining her Science Team cohorts in a bold unpredictable move, and this is a great sign for the future of this book. Risks are being taken and to reap fruit of sweet nature is something I want badly for this flagship title...8.0/10

79.Brightest Day # 17-20 -

Geoff Johns, Pete Tomasi and the already empowering artistic team of Reis, Prado, Syaf and company, happen to do what many major events fail to do...instil a sense of urgency and a constant piquing of interest from readers after 20 issues, and with 6 more to go, the ride isn't letting up before the train station. The locomotive presses on full-steam ahead. I took a sabbatical from comics to press on with some writing and magazine work I was doing, but jumping back in, I missed these titles oh so much! We have seen Boston Brand find some sort of semblance to a life again, with family and a reopened heart cauterizing wounds of his previous life, but all that comes to a grinding halt as the White Ring embarks on revelations to Brand, and it is a bit more sinister and cynical than I once thought. Revelations hint at the importance of other heroes and books in the DCU, and also tie up loose ends. One thread stitched to a melancholy tapestry is the Hawk-lovers' tale as woe befalls them yet again in ways we couldn't imagine. From a sordid love war to battles with a Thanagarian matriarch to a hefty premise of hope from Carol Ferris, affairs on Zamaron are well wrapped up, only to find the literal climax cut short back on Earth. One war ends awry and this follows suit with Aquawar. Let me remind you guys, the art on these 4 books is the most supreme as they save the best for the latter stages. Seeing Aqualad and Arthur face demons and armies of ghost past come to a head as Siren, Black Manta and sea-dwellers gain assistance from a leery and surprising source, and wages war on the land. Mera and a surprise guest come aboard and it's Moses from the Bible all over again. Sacrifices and wounds come abound, and it's such a huge blow that is dealt just when we think a victory is won! These stories are prominent but I didn't like how they outweighed the Firestorm arc. Nonetheless, it's a huge cast and they are balancing things much better in this book, and with the revelations and endings to certain characters made here, I can't wait for the finale...9.0/10

80.Avengers #9, 10 -

Aside from my nitpicking of Romita's art, there isn't much action here...in fact none at all. It's a script filled with word balloons, dramatic dialogue, tension, angst and lurid villainous proposals...that means, Bendis shines incandescently and blinds us! It's his type of script...incessant talk-talk-talk! Rogers' speeches here matches the words of the redemptive Illuminati and it's condescension, insolence and a whole basket-case full of emotions that unravel and waited to snowball to disaster since 'Civil War'! Not even Thor can mend these fences! In the looming background, terror and catastrophe await as the Infinity Gems are being collected by The Hood. The reason he finds out about the gems are a deus ex machina that really is elementary and a weak script point to me, but it's endearing to see his unique moment as he's reunited with Madam Masque with a glimmering romantic touch a la USM. Bendis really could have scripted Parker's rise to power again...much better...but where he fails here, he elevates the book in other cold spots as we see numerous Avengers get face time and in the most revered and honourable manner, they show why they are truly heroes. Even Rulk gets his spotlight in the sun, or snow as this may be! It's secrets and revelations, and much disappointment in the Illuminati. I'd like to see this tension carried over into other titles from Marvel, but I doubt that'd happen. Nonetheless, all the BS and talking is over-with in this issue, so I'm looking forward to the battle versus a very dangerous Hood. It's a deft showdown a-coming and only a few will be able to tackle this empowered villain..8.0/10

81.Secret Avengers #9, 10 -

It's no surprise how much Beredo/Deodato fit these dark tones needed by Brubaker! It's a perfect match picking up from Dark Avengers. Ed is leaving at issue 12 and Nick Spencer comes in; and word is that a lot of great things are going to continue. That aside, here Steve Rogers is tested physically and mentally as he meets his match in the Shadow Council. From them to the Hai-Dai, it's genuinely intriguing to see Shang-Chi's plot with his father pick up as they attend to alleviate a hostile exchange for Sharon Carter. The hostage situation sees Rogers face the formidable John Steele, while Max Fury lingers around. It's traps and double-crossing galore as the SA team enters the fray in full. The presence of a certain schizo member in the hostage exchange makes it a bit confusing as to how the last page comes about, but Ed does well to show Steve as a true leader as expected. The kicker to me is that Steve still keeps this team secret, yet moans over the Illuminati. I can't wait to see this hypocrisy explained by Steve. It's a nice finale to the situation regarding John Steele as resolution comes with a nice chain of events regarding Valkyrie. Moon Knight gets his chance to shine as well but Steve offloads a fine fitting general of a commanding officer. It makes a great boast for future issues post-Brubaker...andfor now, the action and deception on this book makes it a constant winner by me...9.0/10

82.New Avengers # 8 - 9 -

Bendis continues to shed spotlight on Luke and Jessica. He loves both these characters and they are prominent in this book. He sets up a marriage date with them to address certain key issues, and the state of affairs is well handled with the blend of romance and humour in correct parts, as Daniel Acuna does well to sketch this. His X-Men work is iffy but Acuna lights the romance afire and more so, he shines with interventions from a certain villain, and ensuing heroes boarding the date. It's a nice sight to see Jess cut loose but it feels a bit forced when we see the lack of that aforementioned certain villain, but at the end of the day, it's a final resolution that Bendis builds to. It's a bit odd as maybe he didn't need a whole issue to build to this. Either way, it's a fun read but nothing spectacular. We segue into Deodato drawing some luscious females...and with Bobbi, Vicky Hand, Jess and a new reveal in Superia, it's a whole lot of New Avenger action done Deodato style. It's a bit convoluted as we don't really get a straight aim and objective as to why the NA team is hunting these guys, but what takes the spotlight is Nicky Fury and his comrades embarking on some missions that lend a whole lot of credence and relevance to this tale. There's a gunshot that punctuates this title along with some Nick Fury worries that all make an anticipating follow through...7.0/10

83.Avengers Academy # 8, 9 -

This book under Gage continues to be a moral rapture of teen drama, faculty woes, and focuses as a coming-of-age book that bodes disastrous and informative to the teen roster simultaneously, while still wreaking havoc on teachers alike. Both issues are sparkling and with McKone's spectacular art nothing short of a reality TV show, there's major loads of excitement here! Gage's handling of Tigra, Quicksilver and Taskmaster in these issues fuse the dramatics and actions that embed the most serious of consequences in the story. Our youngsters encounter the Hood and find their repercussions lying in dire straights and what's more telling is that you can't point which direction these kids will go - heroes or villains? The ambiguity is remarkable, and seeing Finesse hunt her 'father' is almost as fun as Quicksilver and Tigra trading barbs. While the spotlight leaves out some younglings, the likes of Speedball and Pym do get some time off the bench and they do shine well. These stories are self-contained mostly and while they don't follow a major plot, Gage's derivatives make spot-on arcs. His run here is one of Marvel's best and McKone gives him a decorative book of art that screams epic win! This remains a top title and I can't see them letting us off the hook. It shows more promise than we ever thought...9.0/10

84.Avengers: Children's Crusade #4 -

Heinberg and Cheung are outstanding as yet again they deliver an impressively talented team book and a vast array of characters that don't diminish any of their distinctive qualities. It's an ensemble cast but they pull it off well. Wiccan is trying to get an amnesiac Wanda to leave Doom on their wedding day but Doom deals a hand or two with a nice twist to Wiccan. Also, the Avengers are joined by a former team-mate as well as a rabid current member, who all have different plans for Wanda. Not to mention Magneto, Quicksilver and the YA team all running around Latveria wiht ploys of their own. It's a matter of time before the X-Men get involved I hope, but while we see amazing art, lots of twists and a great splash fight page, I don't get any sense of the plot moving forward here and we're almost half-way through...so I'd like some semblance of the Scarlet Witch! The final page is no shocker to long-time fans of the team but while this proves an entertaining issue, it's just an assembling point for those hunting Wanda. I expect more next time around...7.5/10

85.Thor #619, 620 -

Fraction resumes his tale of speeding up an impending doom that comes the way of Asgard, and by association...Earth! With Ferry's art as colourful, fierce and precise to an exact tee...such astounding artwork deserves a brilliant script. I'm not a huge Fraction fan, but he does deliver again the goods. I'm wary of him helming 'Fear Itself' but he sets off with a resurrected Odin laying the law down to Thor who is all about forgiveness and redemption. Loki's as innocent as can be for a newborn but we all know there lies many lies to his surface, so while we get the Odin-Family in full-force, Fraction decides it's noble to cut the family tree down a bit, and while I'm not sure of this choice, I'd give him time and the benefit of the doubt. It's clear that Asgard isn't going to get an ease up in the wake of Siege but it seems that regal family dynamics are going to see severe ramifications thunder to this realm, and it's looking as if it's travelling at the speed of Lightning! Seems there's a family quandry a-coming and get front row seats to the end of this world as Odin and Thor fight side by side to save this realm called home...at each other's side...for now...8.5/10

86.Thor - For Asgard #6 -

Rodi scribes an unconventional Thor tale that I may have adhered more to but for the woes of Siege, the Heroic Age and the impending 'Fear' that will strike strife and sear wounds into the Asgardian backbone. Thor undergoes death and a quest to bring Asgard's worthy back home but somehow, this story seems a bit more far-fetched than I'd like! Bianchi is eviscerating on art as his high standards never falters, and Rodi also takes a great degree of exactness and honour in his Asgardian dialogue, yet this story just doesn't cut it for me personally. I missed Loki and more Odin...color me biased right? It's not a bad 6 issue collection, but it isn't the most amazing to me. There's ups and downs and I wonder if this creative team were given a more mainstream Thor book, how would they fare? I do think this TPB would suffice to excite me later on but right now, Rodi and Bianchi did decent, but not the awe-inspiring vibe I wanted to feel...6.5/10

85.Thunderbolts # 152, 153 -

It's a Godzilla festival as we see Luke's team include new member, Hyperion, and while these 2 books see the team fend off some enormous monsters and also lead to in-team squabbling, it just seems a bit off-put! There's fun in the slobberknockers but the inclusion of Hyperion is such a poor reasoned one that seems childish. Why include him? No good reasoning is offered except for power! Having him turn on the team is also a clichéd failure but does bode well in showing that this team of miscreants can stick together at times. Ghost isn't too involved in the fight but he and Man-Thing steal the scenes once they appear...hint: CPR! It's a cool team dynamic and we see seeds set for future betrayal as well more possibilities aboard the Raft. I don't know how long a group of lunatics can go on saving the day but I don't mind sticking on this book to see it happen. There's deception and a good script. No reason to shy away but it's time to bring loose threads together and stop the random missions. There's a lot of potential in this book untapped, so I expect Parker to raise the stakes even more...7.5/10

86.Secret Warriors 23, 24 -

Nick Fury has to deal with the stresses and strains of waging war against HYDRA and LEVIATHAN. I don't know why he opts for secret wars when Steve is in charge of MU, but I guess that ploy won't sell books. Nonetheless, Hickman has done well on this book, and has now the task of condensing 60 issues or so into a run of 26 I believe. Hickman never stuttered on this title in my opinion, and the likes of Caselli and Vitti have been perfect for this scruffy title. I'd have loved to see Deodato or Cheung take a stab here but Vitti is the ideal candidate! Hickman brings back the plight of Sebastian who we thought got discarded. This is most welcome since the team has lost a few of its initial cast members, amidst betrayal and a pulsating issue 22. The heart-throbbing comes full circle here as Fury deals with Daisy's squad and the aftermath. It's a twist that I didn't think would happen in this shortened run, but it's the typical left-field Fury that Hickman envelopes himself in. Marquez then steps in issue 24 to assemble the team under Fury's son, Mikel, and it's a poppy art reminiscent of Morning Glories, and it's too bright and playful an artistic tone to this book. It's good art but I rather Vitti here as his roughness and sketchy works depict the grim tone this book needs. To dispel what happens here when Mikel's team goes out under Nick's orders simply would be obscene as we get something that isn't conceived and associated with Nick - vulnerability. Vitti does give a final page that shows this conclusion is one of the most anticipated at Marvel...9.0/10

87.Green Lantern # 62 -

Hal Jordan and his other coloured-corps leaders find themselves struggling to defeat the villain who has been capturing the entities of the spectrum in that of Krona! It's a surprise reveal but still...is it linked to the film? Who knows? But what remains steady is that Krona is a key figure to GL lore and since the inception of the Multiverse and his voyeuristic behaviour to Creation, Krona, much like Nekron, does prove a worthy opponent, and here it's Alamy and company that demonstrate just how furious he is. Krona has caused a certain blood pact to be made and it's no secret that his plans are striking fear into the hearts of our heroes, even moreso than Blackest Night. The action sequences here are well scripted and plotted to artistic delight as Krona tackles the Lantern cronies, as he views them. His power is definitely gauged up a notch and Hal Jordan finds himself struggling to keep up...with the other assisting associates on the backburner! Kronas doesn't give much insight into his plans but it's a welcome tease to keep us strung along for the ride! The interaction of a downbeat JLA is quite fascinating and what ensues has me giddy! It's insubordination like this that makes DC evolve well! BTW - Bruce is mentioned yet it's the Grayson suit I see? Poor mistake by the art team! I digress...How this ties into the War of GL's in March, I can't wait...8.5/10

88.Green Lantern Corps # 56, 57 -

Kirkham and Batt really take Bedard's scripts and cast them into a magnificently sculpted scene of battles at Qward. From Yellow Lanterns to Green Lanterns to denizens with weaponry, these issues are just non-stop action, and having Kyle, John, Soranik and Hannu as canon fodder makes a great read! The Weaponer is such a well-crafted revelation that it's about time we get a showdown with Sinestro, and the fight not only translates a smooth read, but this is some great artwork! The stance the GLs take amidst an uneasy truce is endearing, and seeing alliances on thin wires do make a rabid caricaturization of anxiety, but it's Sinestro that really dominates with his presence. He steals the book when he comes on, and his interactions with the Weaponer are brutal and a quite fine twist to this tale. He also drops some love on Natu with a line that made the book a must-have! We also get a crossover from a Brightest Day figure on the search for a valuable item and it seemed a good point, but turned muddled very quickly. Still it couldn't take away from a nice finale, and much promise for March's wars!...9.0/10

89.Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors #5 ,6 -

Pasarin's art and Tomasi's writings compliment each other well and this book has been an intriguing one with the pact made by Guy and his cohorts. Now we get more revelations, and it seems Guy has seen himself embedded in distrust. When a mission to seek out a source drain of power to the GL rings goes terribly awry, it's a lot of new aspects that turn this book on its head. With another set of action packed issues to lead into the GL War, we get a grave threat coming in the way of Sodam Yat, and also further insight into the villainous Zardor, and these machinations do well to lend a sense of impending doom come March. The Lantern dynamic is well played off here as Guy finds his team in doubt but managing an ounce of forgiveness. They embark on trying to establish a focal point of salvation but it's for later on in this series. A certain Red Lantern takes spotlight also and it's a nice exchange as we see Guy do well to thwart the presence of the villain. The secrets revealed are most accepted but it's the key figure that Guy portrays here that makes readers coming back for more, and next month, I can't wait to see the Hal showdown...8.0/10

90.The Amazing Spider-Man #647 - 655 -

Dan Slott is helming 'Big Time' and the plethora of woes befalling Spiderman are nicely offset by some new changes and attributes to his arsenal of everyday New-Yorking. Slott enlists Marcos Martin, Stefano Caselli and Humberto Ramos, and these are 3 top quality guys that demonstrate what this book needed - consistent art wrapped in remarkable plots, and both are done to a grand standing ovation. Parker finds himself thrust into a new job, as well as a new love interest/girlfriend while embarking on webs entangling MJ and Harry as well as the Jamesons! Peter's dalliances with Carlie come amidst MJ rearing sometimes a jealous head but it's a nuance and nostalgic feel that isn't quite captured like that of Gwen or MJ, but this relationship with Carlie has enormous potential. The MJ factor also sparks endless possibilities. With a new job, in tandem drops in Kingpin, Montana and their new entourage who are familiar from Shadowland. Add in a twist in the Hobgoblin saga, and we get some Black Cat thrown in to top it off. It's a recipe of disaster for Pete but makes a great read. This scientific plot is a brilliant arc and there's a lot of cast-members whom Slott handles well and naturally. In addition to this jumbled cast, there's still room for Mac Gargan to drop in with the Spider-Slayers in one of the most entertaining and thrilling stories on this title for a while. Parker has a lot on his plate and it's a tragic spin on things when we see that Pete can't save everyone. The Jameson family is a key component here, as Slott brings in a table full of players and does well to rotate their time in the spotlight. Add in Rick Remender's new Venom, which is sure to spark a fuse in this title, as well as a new villain in Massacre, and a stern-faced and robust Harry Osborn, Slott has a lot of medicine to dose us with as we head to Fear Itself. Slott has been impeccable on this title and his artists have been a full win...9.5/10

91.Carnage # 1-3 -

Zeb Wells craftily spins a dark tale and as gruesome and Gothic as it comes, there's only one person called to do this art in the rightful truant known as Clayton Crain. His Necrosha works were brutal and horrifically scary and fit to a tee on this title. It was a shock to see this as an Iron-Man/Spiderman story but as it progresses it's a well-woven tale spun around the Carnage family. It's endearing to see the symbiote harvested from outer space for nefarious means after encountering the Sentry, and with a new host latched, it's well played how Wells leaches onto past Carnage tales and doesn't muck the previous continuity up. Wells dominates in keeping the reader thoroughly interested and invested as to the intentions of the symbiote while our protagonists get sidetracked and distracted, a bit too easily for my blood. But when the story comes full-circle and the bigger picture sets in, it's a kicker that some may despise as that Marvel revolving door of death seems trodden upon again, but for me...I'm just enjoying the ride and glad to see a face I missed for my sadistic own inner purposes...7.5/10

92.Ultimate Doom 2-4 -

Rafa Sandoval's art makes him one of the best around, and seems a hybrid between Leinil Yu and Stuart Immonen. That still doesn't take away from Bendis just using this event as an excuse to use up Avenger screentime, FF4 dramatics and Spiderman! He gets to toggle and toy with these characters in UU and 616 so why bother to hatch this tale? No explanation is offered for Reed's misdeeds, Johnny Storm is not consistent with Bendis' USM, and the rushed romance is weary and gives a resultant that seems too spur of the moment. Character development suffers here as it seems a rushed and put together event to cram many heroes in one story to fight a villain with a vague motive of destruction. It's a misleading title as REED isn't Doom but with that last page setting up possibilities, it shows how Bendis' precursors to this title do not come to any conclusion or resolution here, as I am sure he wants to continue this book. However, this event and its predecessors are mumbled and jumbled a mash up with no clarity and just a bunch of characters shrewn in to craft a tale of no continuity with 616. The deus ex machina is weak and seeing Reed outfoxed easily is such a poor point. I've read better else-tales...5.5/10

93.Avengers: Children's Crusade #5 -

Iron Lad's arrival here makes me wonder just why were this issue's liberties with time travel and butterfly effects dealt with and handled with such nonchalance. Jim and Alan both have done a spectacular job so far but it's a brute levity in this issue that I can't fathom nor garner. It has no place when you look at the likes of the Avengers, Doom and Magneto that are going after the Scarlet Witch. It also seems that Magneto and the Avengers are portrayed more as lackeys here in this issue, and Heinberg may be losing the grasp on making each team get enough screen time. I'm not a fan of this team helming this story as much anymore with this issue, as I always tended to Bendis handling Wanda's return or dealing it in a MUTANT book a la X-Men, but this Young Avengers tale, I can't help but recant as I think the chord struck here by this young team dynamic, may be a better fit for after Wanda returns as the Witch. Not even the last page made me excited. Seeing some old Avenger cameos really did bode well, but the handling of Iron-Lad in this issue made me cringe, and I hope they rectify it when Kang comes aboard, I hypothesize! My score...6.0/10

94.Secret Avengers 11 -

I still am so grateful to see Deodato's art here as he is topnotch as usual. We get some Inception-esque risque movements that paint Steve Rogers a la Leo Decaprio but it's quite an intriguing tale as he navigates the catacombs of John Steele's mind. It is a straight forward issue and there's no shocker with the turn the book takes, but Brubaker copped out by making this issue a Steve Rogers book, which he could have done in his Cap title. This Steele arc should not be expanded on in this book, as it takes away from the momentum of this secret team. I still can't understand how it remains secret or WHY it remains secret as Steve runs the show, and this is not an X-FORCE killing team, but I miss the team on their endeavours, especially Moon Knight. With little to nothing of Valkyrie in this title, I await Nick Spencer's run as Brubaker leaves on the next issue. The lack of Nova left a bitter taste in my mouth as I see that maybe this book promised some things and failed to deliver. They told great stories but we were cheated out of a character or two I feel. Bru seems to be quite busy as he also left most of 'FEAR ITSELF' to Fraction so I expect his Cap books to be utterly amazing as usual. This issue ends up with a solemn...7.0/10

95.New Avengers 10 -

Superia as a villain is quite powerful here as we see her scatter the Avengers! With Bobbi in a precarious spot, Bendis did under utilize the chance to bring in Clint Barton into an emotional rollercoaster. But Luke Cage and moreso, Spiderman get a well tuned focus here as we see Strange, Wolvie and Ben Grimm also pop in and chime up a song or two. The mysterious Superia is quite a feat to look at and watch pummel Ms. Marvel, but the HAMMER arc is one I want to see wrapped up quickly, especially what the acronym, stands for as I anticipate FEAR ITSELF. The issue is a well woven one as we see Chaykin and Bendis recruit an unfamiliar and odd team for a sinister mission under Nick Fury. Of course, with Deodato and Beredo making me gawk at much of this issue with their fine spectacle of art, I can see this book heading in a nice direction under the leave of Immonen. Now, onto the next issue where I hope some answers are tossed our way...9.0/10

96.Avengers 11 -

Bendis really throw us for a loop when he gives The Hood a chance to become more prominent. After his failure in Dark Reign and Siege and his Masque derivational trysts, I felt it best for him to stow away for a while. Yet it's a vehement thread that one cannot resist when it comes to the Infinity Gems, and it seems that these days at Marvel, lower named villains usurping big heroes are the go, and we see this with RULK and THOR getting hammered by Parker. He tames Namor easily, and it's no surprise considering the gems he possesses. The kicker here underlies with Uatu as he hints at something beneath the surface that bodes even more sly than Bendis hinted. Overall, it is a fun ride to see Parker decimate the heroes, and he engages a certain telepath to near fatal consequences. It worries me to see that Parker had not killed any Avenger yet, seeing as he holds such power and there are quite a few weak Avengers opposing him at times, but Parker's issues got a whole lot more intricate with the last page reveal of a familiar face when it comes to these gems...9.5/10

97.Thor 621 -

Ferry dazzles here yet again with spectacular art and colors, and I wonder when Gillen takes over 'Journey into Mystery' where will Ferry be? Nonetheless, he and Fraction did take a fine turn on the book, and while Fraction's choices did not seem as splendid to me as JMS or Gillen, I think he will do well with 'Fear'. That doesn't stop this issue from being a Grant-M bundle of complication that I barely understand. He wraps up the World Eaters arc and it leaves me confused. What of the realms? What of Valhalla and Hel? The last page also bewilders me, as does the machinations of Odin and Thor's disposition. Loki's return is a kicker that seems contrite at the moment but while Fraction baffles, whether intentional or not, I hope he does not rewrite too much Norse Mythology to throw into Fear and does not make things too complex. That said, more Ferry art would be something I hope happens asap, and an Avengers title would suit him well...7.5/10

98.Thunderbolts 155 -

Jeff Parker is consistently amazing on this book and with Kev Walker shining through and through, it is awesome to see the New Avenger influence pop up here with a mystical quest and some sneer duplicity by the heroes. Man-Thing and Juggernaut have been touted for huge things in FEAR ITSELF, and this issue sees them take a backseat as Luke and Strange go toe to toe with magical traps by Satana. It's a great action packed read and the art is as quirky and dramatic as the action depicts and requires. The twist here sees the heroes with a valiant win, but what stands out is the affairs at the Raft that leaves a giddy final page yearning for more explanations. This was almost as much fun as Bendis' recent supernatural schemes but here, this team book is such an unpredictable ride, that one can't help but feel a dire sense of instability that beckons much more pleasure and fun reads in the next issue or 2...8.5/10

99.Brightest Day 21 - 23 -

The perception of the White Lantern being Hal J or maybe Deadman toys with us a lot as long as we focus on Johns' writings. Even Mera was contentious but conscientiously, I knew to rescind my pick. Reason being that Johns reneges on making predictable decisions, and here again, we get BD coming full swing with the sweet setup for a grand finale. Johns intertwines and weaves threads that come together for many of the special 12 resurrections, with 4 particularly standing out. The perceived notion that this event would fizzle and lose steam is quickly dismissed as the Forest in Star City begins to rampantly reap dividends with the DARK AVATAR rising, and we get a shock final page as to DC's protector. Syaf and Reis, Prado etc continue to sparkle their art here and it's clear Johns has big plans when this book ends and I'm queuing up as I know that the antithesis here will leave us with more questions unanswered than answered...9.5/10

100.Green Lantern 63, 64 -

Krona's past and some enlightened transgressions are focused on with actions past proving quite relevant in the pact between Guy, Ganthet and Atrocitus. It's a huge blessing to see many threads coming together here at long last, and the colored corps teamup is well drafted and played off as they encounter the book of the black and its guardian. Krona's machinations come full circle at Oa with a familiar face being thrust into the GL battery and a killer last page sets in play, some devious schemes by Krona. Mahnke's art is top quality as usual and we see the united corps in some witty yet valiant exchanges, but it seems too little too late as Krona gains a big upper hand in his victory quest...9.0/10

101.Green Lantern Corps 58 -

The War of Green Lanterns hits home hard when Kyle finds himself at odds with John, but for some particularly key reasons. Kyle uses head over heart, and John tries to reason to no avail. Kirkham and Batt do justice to Bedard's script as we see true sacrifice made here in seclusion. The team quickly ascertains the errors of Oa and with some baggage on board, the next issue should be a doozy. Seeing John here makes me think he will be the shuddering casualty in this title, and as he has been the least written GL, I can't see why not? Seeing Kyle, John etc realise that things on Oa may be a bit yellow, Kyle is torn between duty and Love and this makes an interesting read...9.0/10

102.Green Lantern - Emerald Warriors 8 -

Felipe Massafera's covers are epic here to start us off on Tomasi's continuation of the woes of stubborn Guy Gardner. With the Zardor threat and dangerous Yat element playing here, it's quite a few nice tapestries to work with. When Guy comes up against Hal, the reasons and causes are all smooth and sensible. Krona's malevolence and sinister agenda comes full-circle and Hal tries to reason with an unreasonable Guy. They seek a solution but solace seems more likely as they ascertain the root cause of the problematic equation. Pasarin's art neatly depicts what I envision and matches well with the writer. More Weaponer please? Nonetheless, another great issue and makes one look forward with much anticipation. The transition after the War seems one set in blood and not stone..9.0/10

103.Secret Warriors 26 -

Jon Hickman continues to throw wrenches in the wheels by carving twist after twist. The premise of SHIELD being a tool for HYDRA and also, LEVIATHAN in the mix, all made for intriguing spy business, but now Hickman has perpetually confused me with the precepts and many twists that this book reeks of. He may have gone overboard here with a final page of one too many twists, and it's nice to see someone I thought dead back in the fold, but overall, this is becoming too intricate a plot. Then again, readers of his FF4 and SHIELD solos would also reiterate that let's leave him to do his flowcharts and job. I agree and I do hope he wraps this book up nicely as he did condense it a lot from his intended 60 issue run. Subtended on a bewildering final page, I do hope to get more pizazz and dazzle from Hickman and the elegant Vitti as they close the chapter on this title. It still remains enjoyable but I do hope my questions gain closure...8.0/10

104.Ult. Spiderman 152-157, New Ultimates vs Ult Avengers 1-3 -

Millar's revamped Ult Avengers tales really have not impressed me and since Ultimatum, this universe is falling flat. Millar falters recently while Bendis has not managed to make USM the spectacle he promised. Bendis' USM is good no doubt, but hasn't been exceptional as he too promised since Ultimatum. Nonetheless, enter DEATH OF ULT SPIDERMAN. Bendis uses the return of Gwen again...to a weak extent, as it's failure how often she runs away, and also it is weak that he is yet to show and illuminate how Peter ended up with Gwen and not MJ. Further adding to slight woe and misery, is the slight of hand plot twist that sees Peter and MJ randomly and chaotically swoon into the tempest of each others' hands...of Love? Where's the buildup, romance and intrigue? It seems to random, rushed, hustled and forced. The schooling of Peter via Avengers training also was a cool plot arc that fell flat, and this allowed Millar and Yu to recombine on their 3 issues thus far that are coherent in showing Fury and Danvers toe-to-toe. It's a bit tedious and overdone, but here the dialogue and action is rousing. It's a lovely bunch of twists and turns in the brawling bare-knuckled slobberknocker. The books intertwine in Millar's third issue...and it's a hell of a final few pages. It is well built up and lays a sweet foundation for the next chapter. Bagley's return as well as a pissed off team of villains make a fun time of Bendis' title...I can't wait to see the fates of these heroes and anti-heroes...9.0/10

105.Journey into Mystery #622 -

Doug Braithwaithe has been elegant on past Thor and Wolverine books, and his artsy and painted style is mesmerizing in modern comic tales. It isn't as glossy and fluorescent as Pasqual Ferry, and as much as I'll miss Ferry greatly, Braithwaithe comes good here and astounds with an amazing script from Kieron Gillen. Gillen took the reins from JMS on Thor and delved into Siege, and crafted marvelous stories before leaving Fraction to Thor and Fear. Now it shows how they both are coercing the Fear factor, much akin to what they did on UXM and Generation Hope. It seems they are the MJ and Pippen of Marvel, and in all fairness, Gillen is hot property and to me is better than Fraction and most writers out. Gillen, along with Snyder and Spencer, are my rocking newbies, and Gillen illuminates Loki's return, and offers some shedding of light on a recent Asgardian History since Ragnarok. It's a great tie in to Fear #1 and it's quite a spectacle of a tale, albeit a Loki book. And this creative team is splendid a duo to show how Loki leaves Siege and re-enters the new world to face threats of Fear...8.5/10

106.Avengers 12 -

Bendis swings from making Stark looked upon for his Illuminati transgressions and just ploys a sympathy vote while flipping Steve's hardcore stance. It's a weak play and the Illuminati gets off too easy. This comes with the Hood being incapable of putting up more of a fight against the Avengers, and it's all a shamble. A mess is made here when Bendis gets the depiction of Thor, in a humorous sad vein, as well as Stark and Rogers, all so wrong. His patriotic stance on Rulk is good but not similar to the vein in his Rulk solo title, and it's all such a waste to see Hood overthrown so easily. The Illuminati exposure had such a promising tone to it but falls flat on its face...and I can't help but shudder to think what happens if Bendis ever dons a Beyonder tale again. The poor rotation of the spotlight of different team members shows here strongly and while he knocks New Avengers out the park, this solo title is flailing badly, and the hypocritical final page highlights a poorly drawn book, and poorly told tale...5.0/10

107.Fear Itself - Sin's Past -

McCann gets Eisner props for the Dapper Men tales and much props for his Hawkeye/Mockingbird tales of intrigue and espionage recently, but here, I can't see the point to having this book regarding Sin, as we've seen it all what we do need to see in Brubaker's Cap book. Why add more? The sense of mystery is much welcome and adored and leaves for further acceptance of Sin as she transitions to Skadi in FEAR. This is a mere issue of rehashing old cap tales as nothing new is gained but mere flashbacks and threads that Brubaker already anointed to us all...4.0/10

108.Green Lantern 65, Green Lantern Corps 59 -

Johns and Mahnke deliver along with the rest of the team a great read as we see Hal J and the other Earthen Lanterns come up with a contingency plan beyond measure. Johns nails the exchanges with Guy and Hal to a humorous tee and it seems a play off Star Wars akin to Luke and Hans. It's quite a bombastic threat to the GLC when Kronas takes over the GLC bar a few, and it's time to head to Oa to rescue Ganthet and save the GL Power Battery from the Parallax infection. Kirkham, Batt and Bedard deliver a hard hitting action packed issue that shows how the Earthen lanterns fight back against the Kronas-run Oa. With the other Corps leaders in dire straits, Hal and his team embark upon a new journey of salvation, which comes to a screeching halt when a familiar face enters the fray, and it ain't welcome news. I look forward to more of Krona, Parallax and the Book of the Black as it holds more than secrets...Lanterns aside...it's a fun ride and I can't wait to see how this affects BD...9.5/10

109.Avengers Academy 10-12 -

Gage and Raney deliver here a great scope of what I felt should have been a battle featuring Korvac and the real Avengers in...a Bendis book. Nonetheless, the reason and manipulations that bring Korvac and his wife back, are well drawn out and layered by Gage as he sets himself along DnA scribe lines of meshing out a team ensemble book of high quality mettle. Although I was peeved the real Avengers, especially Thor, fell so easily to Korvac here, it paved the way for the AA youths to prove themselves in a most unthought of fashion. It's a genius stroke and master twist as to how they combat Korvac, and overall, Gage really does well to gauge how the victory is won. I still feel Korvac should have been kept for a bigger book, but overall, this AA book continues a consistently amazing run, and keeps us looking for more. The team dynamic is well strung out and leaves us lingering and yearning...and craving...more of the faculty and the academic roster. It's chock full of cameos that are more than substantial...and overall, it's utterly a tribute of a win...9.5/10

110.Heroes for Hire 2-5 -

I cannot help my affinity for anything DnA puts out, as their Marvel Cosmic binge has me hooked, and I've yet to read their Soldier Zero run, but all qualms I could potentially have, are mustered aside into oblivion as they use the likes of Brad Walker etc to full effect on non-stop action panels that reek of bloody crime fighting and substantial amounts of violence dealt to criminals, all the while overshadowing a sinister hand of control. Their story is snide, and while it sneers a duplicitous nature, it's most welcome to see Paladin finally rise from the Siege ashes and gauge Misty's hiring of the heroes. It's a brilliant cast in a well tuned plot that weaves and is up to its neck in twists and raw grit, but what sets the story apart is the rise of Paladin in what many thought would be a Misty tale alone. The revolving cast is well utilized and that is no shocker seeing as who the writers are. Not all their roster makes good a read, as seen with a forced Frank Castle appearance, but with resolution and clarity still to be gained behind the curtains, I'm all in and resoundingly returning to this book...8.0/10

111.Daredevil Reborn 1-3 -

Jock was missed here a lot, and while we got him on the covers, I;m glad that I still get a fill with his Snyder 'Det Comics' amazing books. That said, it's a style and substance similar to 'The Losers' that I get from Andy Diggle here as he makes amends for his travesty called Shadowland. It had potential but fell fully flat on its face. Leaving Black Panther guarding Hell's Kitchen, Matt finds himself trying to fly under the radar but his scope falls onto a situation that requires a remedy of justice. The dosage is carried out well with Diggle performing tales of well-paced panels with the exquisite art of Gianfelice and Hollingsworth all coming full circle here. It's well intended to be a reason why Matt forgoes redemption to retake the heroic path, and after his dark fall from grace, Diggle is suited well to redeem the awful Shadowland, and it isn't a clear cut easy path for our hero who finds himself at odds and ends with new forces and elements that still bear familiar...7.0/10

112.Uncanny X-Force #4-8 -

This is a splendid run by Remender, who brings the A-game of Fear Agent in throngs. His Doc Voodoo and Punisher runs were well received by me, and here he rounds off some immaculate art by Opena, with a shocking conclusion to the saga hunting the new incarnation of Apocalypse. Opena continues to be raw and bold, and this daring shine gleams with the final few pages that sees X-Force confront Apocalypse in a finale that leaves us staggering and breathless.
The ramifications are even more felt with the 'Deathlok Nation' arc, which Remender ties in well. His dialogue is spot on, and grasp on all characters, from the eerie Deathlok to the creepy Wade, and furthermore to the core X-Men on this stealth squad is all done to perfection. There are few crevices shown in the art of Ribic here, and it does well to compliment his awesome covers on this title. His art speaks volume as we see Fantomex shine in the spotlight, along with Psylocke and Deadpool, and with the right blends of humor, and gory action, all courtesy of team leader Logan, the previous arc's thread comes full circle and entwines here, leaving more questions than answers.
Billy Tan then jumps on the pencils to illuminate a Reaver tale in the #5.1 issue and Remender continues to shine light and focus onto characters that aren't around enough in the X-VERSE and overal, MU 616. Tan has a natural element of being purely raw and gritty in nature, and the Reavers issue calls for just that. He follows up with another excellent script by Remender as the Shadow King goes toe-to-toe with Psylocke. She gets a strong handle here, but it's Warren's progress and dark inner-city battle that intrigues and baffles at times. It filters out to beg the question - is this team bathing itself in more blood than it can handle? And are they going to be able to withstand the fractures and fallouts? My answer seems NO...and exposure looms on the horizon...9.5/10

113.Thunderbolts 156 -

It's a perverse and torrential introduction for Satana to the team, but they somehow muster their lust away into the droves of nothingness and cold emotion that lingers beneath their cold exteriors and even colder interiors, so that they attack the mission of the occult head on. The Thunderbolts needed drastic muscle in a supernatural force as they are thrust into mystical elements that Luke and Juggernaut can't pull through with ease despite their boatloads of physical strength. Currents of the occult swarm around the team as they leave behind Songbird and co. at the Raft to enlist the choices for the B-team. The replacement scenes are quite nicely done, and Walker again nails the art, but this isn't Parker's strongest issue. His delving into the mystics isn't a la Remender or Bendis, but it doesn't fall too flat. We're reimbursed with a nice final page and it's no subtle reminder that some sort of subterfuge will succinctly weave its way and intertwine into the team's fate, after all, Juggernaut's future is chock full of imposing fear to those who oppose him, as he's been deemed worthy. Overall, an average read and somewhat amateurish script, but they manage to charm and make it work at times...6.5/10

114.Batman Inc # 3, 4 -

Paquette and Lacombe no doubt do highlight moments of mastery and wizardry by Grant Morrison, but here the depths of his much acclaimed and praised genius masterstrokes fall on my deafened ears. Plaudits, they laud time and time again, but to me, after 4 issues...I'm not stuck in or struck in a momentous chord. El Gaucho's role here isn't as pivotal as I'd have liked and the amplified setting bears no strong resonance to me regarding the Batwoman and Kathy Kane mystery. El Gaucho seems too uninteresting and derelict for my taste, and El Sombrero just doesn't cut it. Sure, the Kane mystery beckons well and bodes subtle intrigue, but it hasn't sink in, set in and hit me. The art is quite tasty but other than that, Grant is yet to set me on fire with these 2 issues. The previous ones were much better but then again, Grant works in complex and mysterious ways. Hard for me to trust his motions but I'll give him a welcome chance I hope...5.5/10

115.Batman #706-709 -

Tony Daniel has given Grayson his own voice as Batman and it's fluent with the sculpture that Snyder has painted on Detective Comics. It's grim, broody yet a bit more lively and upbeat than Bruce. This sees him entangled in webs with the Sensei and certain areas that require him to be his own version of Batman, but fly the cape as Bruce would. Daniel hits the ground running and is spot on with his art as well. The action sequences and fighting scenes are well drawn as Daniel brings a well woven plot to life and leaves threads loose for future reference. The Sensei is quite dandy at making Batman squeamish and here, we get it boundlessly.
It's a seamless transition as David Hine crossovers with Streets of Gotham and Red Robin to incorporate the Azrael/Crusader/Fireball arc in under the astute art of Guilleaume March. Some may not like it but it fits the chaotic order well here and is reminiscent of Anarky. The judgment of Gotham and Grayson is well transposed and it begs to see what the future holds for heroes, vigilantes and anti-heroes alike. Of course, we get a dire tease from a well respectable villain that reeks of trouble...7.5/10

116.The Flash #8 - 11 -

Geoff Johns leads us into Flashpoint and it's quite a doozy to see Manapul and Kollins craft his tales. It's all about enlightenment on Eobard Thawne's manipulation of the time-stream as he traverses the past with malicious intents for Barry's future. Further adding to the compounding misery and woe is Barry's forensic mystery in the present that are piled on with the identity of Hot Pursuit. It's a well camouflaged tale dictated here and Johns nails it fully while still leaving room for guesses and distractions as to how the world of Flashpoint comes about. There's a long standing thread regarding Bart Allen that isn't properly addressed yet but with Kollins draping somewhat quaint a style of art on issue 11, enter Flashpoint and it's Kubert to paint our way. Charting a way forward is something that Barry won't find easy to do, and I cannot wait to see the road that Captain Boomerang has paved in Brightest Day...Overall an enthusiastic story with sparkling art...unconventional at times but suitable for the time anomaly tale that Johns ekes out...7.5/10

117.The Dark Knight #2 -

Finch's art has been better than his Marvel Avengers/Ultimatum work and topping that material is no easy feat. He and Williams do well here as they illustrate an ever-improving dialogue and overall story. The pace has not picked up much as the steps lead to the lackey Croc and a repugnant Penguin. It's a disgustingly eerie arc filled with thugs, beatdowns, street chases and a bemusingly incompetent and incapable Bruce, who seems running more on emotion here than logic. It's unconventional and despite the amazingly impeccable art, the story needs to step up a notch. It's a doozy last page with a mid-taste of a promise of all things Etrigan to come, but there isn't much progress made here...6.0/10

118.Detective Comics 873 - 876 -

Scott Snyder shows and proves his mettle here as one of DC's brightest writers again with diverse and versatile plots chock full of charisma, charm and the underlying gutter and belly of crime-ridden Gotham. Jock and Francavilla delve into a vast of array of art as we see Grayson escape from a death auction, and when we think that Gordon and Grayson are the main stars of this book, Snyder gives us a deep and nostalgic impacting foray into the likes of Harvey Bullock, James Jr. and also manages to take a deep look at past threads in the lives of James and James Jr. that reek of a stringent gravity. It's a fabulous trek that Snyder paints, and furthermore the last issue highlighted a certain Zucco and a despicable murder linked to a whale, and this just shows how Snyder writes arc of diamonds from ideas of coal...9.0/10

119.Green Lantern- Emerald Warriors 009 -

Tomasi follows up a nice finale to BD along with Johns, and uses the best art I've seen offered by Pasarin/Smith as we see the Lanterns of Earth donning new colored rings as their leaders are incapacitated in the Black Book, rendering the battery of Oa susceptible to Parallax's influence. Seeing GLs turn on each other is always fun, but Mogo sees to make the book heavier a bit with his key role. It's about John's defiance and Hal's practically, and while both aren't sound, it's great to see Guy and Kyle written/drawn so well....especially by Pasarin. There's enough action, story and humor to make this War of GLs magnificently written and co-ordinated. Seems there's to me-more secrets to meet the eye according to what Kronas was outlined as...with a certain gauntlet worn by the first GL...with BD ending on a huge cliffhanger, it's great to know this book treks on...9.0/10

120.The Avengers 12.1 -

Bendis uses Hitch well here and it's pleasant to see this on paper...after the UU and Cap reborn, it's nice to have faith once again here...The SWORD plot, Jess Drew and some geeky Beast moments all tie in together well at the end...it's a nasty machination by the Hulk's Intelegencia squads who deal with Jess Drew. Steve Rogers finds out what's SWORD and sends the big Avenger guns to retrieve his justice. Weird to see Thor not leading, and also, it's weird to the Secret Avengers in plain not so boring sight??? As the Intelegencia is confronted, the heroes IN THE AFTERMATH see Stark spew a terrible tragedy...which is yet to pass...fully...from a certain STALWART VILLAIN TO THE AVENGERS...Overall, a decent book...8/10

121.X-Men #6 - 10 -

Medina's art is again receptive as the Vampire Nation comes to somewhat an anti-climatic end. The only upside is seeing Logan moan and mull over Scott's plan to use him as a guinea pig, and seeing Scott square off in a bluff versus Dracula...or so it seemed? This tale was won quite easily for the X-Men, but still proved an intelligent read even though it got too witty at times for such a serious arc. The offenses of Jubilee and fate of Blade also gave food for thought as we slipped into the reptilian arc which artist Bachalo aced! Gischler is paving the way for Yost's 'From first to last' arc, but ends this arc well with some much needed PR, as well as some intriguing antagonists, who still leave me to wonder why X-Man has not been hunted yet? He ended showing the positive noted spin for San Fran's X-Men, but come FEAR, Juggernaut comes-a-knocking...as does a Schism...9/10

122.Uncanny X-Men #532-536 -

Dodson's covers for the former review, proved thrilling, but the Dodsons' interior material is not all that special. Matt Fraction hands off to Kieron Gillen, as they initialize in seeing Kieron's plot under the Dodsons! They wrapped up the Sublime-Power up arc under Greg Land's art, with his pepsodent smile Greg Land females. Not too shabby an arc but not too impressive. All his female characters have the same smile and look, so it was nice to leave that point out, despite its superb final page, and move to Dodson and co. Sadly it is no huge improvement, as the Dodsons' do make well with Fraction. The entrance of the Breakworld people paves way for war and treason, while Kitty can't be saved and awaits solidification. Magnus finds himself as watchdog yet again as the island loses its utopian gril...7/10

123Thunderbolts 157 -

Shalvey and Walker again deliver impressive art while Parker ties the book up before the FEAR tie-in but already knowing the fate of Marko has taken away from this book to me. I'm biased as I find myself drawn away from the B-team roster and the machinations of Cage, US AGENT, Songbird and co. as they eye a new fixation on solving missions with the new likes of Satana and a certain Asgardian misfit on board. The boring new zombie arc just doesn't help enhance or cut it for me. It's not a bad read but with FEAR looming and 2 major issues out already, this filler issue wasn't the float for my boat...9/10

124.Avengers 13 -

This reality TV setting book does imply that dire consequences and major ramifications will follow when FEAR plays out and the stress and strain to come will lead to more rubble than we anticipated. The art of Bachalo is as spectacular and laid back as usual, while Bendis hits the right spots in showing fractures of emotion, distress and even romance amidst the team. The highlights and nods go off to Thor, Jess Drew, Clint, Bobbi and Tony Stark, as these players join Rogers in assimilating something that bodes woeful, wary and dangerous. It's imperative that readers get up to speed on RULK as Bendis has taken an immense liking to him, and it seems that this book sets up #14 for something that smoke and mirrors cannot curtail...it's akin to the calm before the storm, and Bendis seems waiting and eager to unleash...9/10

125.Secret Avengers 12, 12.1 -

Brubaker threw us a nice concept for FEAR and Fraction took these seeds to helm the main event, while Brubaker returned to the caverns of scribing the tales of Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes. With the movie coming soon, Brubaker certainly is folding a path to have the mantle handed from Bucky to Steve again, or for them both to don the shields, but either way, Brubaker shows us the skill and levity he displayed on his UXM team run, as he again delivers the story that wraps our minds and blows it...and the John Steele arc steers right into that category. Nova and Prince of Orphans were my most pleasant cameos in this title, along with the tiled dalliances of Shang Chi, and seeing this Steele arc left up in the air is one that satisfies me, as Brubaker again plots a back-in-the-day story during WW2 that resounds his aptitude for writing anything concerned with Captain America. I still firmly believe that this Steele arc could be put into the Cap solo books but there's too much Bucky going on in that title. Brubaker hands off to Nick Spencer and this guy is going to explode this year at Marvel no doubt. His first arc with Rogers and co. on a countdown mission to protect their own secrets and IDs, is one that is magnificently played out with a speculated amazing twist and a true-hero's ending that leaves vagueness, ambiguity wrapped in with a sense of uncertain fulfillment, self-assuredness and satisfaction. Having the likes of Deodato, Will Conrad, Beredo and Scott Eaton on art doesn't hurt either!...9/10

126.Uncanny X-Force 9, 10 -

Remender steps in with another fine display as he uses the exposure of the team to exact revenge as indicated and desired by Magneto. It's a task undertaken by Logan and with few words, Tan demonstrates how skilled and potent his artwork is and this issue says it all...the sketching of Tan illuminates the pages and as difficult as it is to pull off a word-less issue, they add one or 2 lines in, and compliment all with a wondrous ending. The wonderful Tan then gets even better with Remender losing grip on Archangel, as this entity goes rogue with murderous intent, leading to a well-threaded seed regarding a certain dark enemy whose aid is enlisted, only to offer a solution in the dark Age and dystopian era that X-fans adore and love. It's a grand ride promised ahead as the battle to save Warren's soul heats up that will take this team to a place that bodes severe future implications...9.5/10

127.Green Lantern 66, Green Lantern Corps 60, Emerald Warriors 10 -

Pasarin and Kirkham/Batt join Mahnke and company to artistically craft a trilogy of beautifully action-packed books, and with scribes such as Johns, Bedard and Tomasi helming these titles, it's a safe bet that they take us too awesome heights. Krona's focus comes full-circle with a cynical yet malevolent plan regarding the guardians and his new vision for them, while Stewart and Rayner are left to deal with a dilemma that is filled with high woe. Hal and Guy are also institutions of immense importance when they rally the troops to see the battle against Krona, his minions...and a certain Parallax come full circle. The lack of Parallax worried me but these writers tie together all books quite astutely and it's a doozy of a final page that begs for more double spreads. The said the war of green lanterns was going to be amazing...and it has...no disappointments yet...Krona's origins and machinations, the aftermath and effects on the corps and the guardians, the mannerisms and key attitude of Guy and Hal...no doubt show that this corps won't be the same when this event is over...9.0/10

128.Secret Warriors 27 -

Hickman and Vitti start wrapping things up with the revelation that things with Fury and HYDRA aren't what they seem, and SHIELD is something that winds a long way. Pity that HAMMER couldn't factor in this, as that faction under Bendis/Maleev would have been a nice accompanying book to this. Nonetheless, the titles suffers from the decompression to 28 issues as I would have liked the full espionage run! It's rushed but safe to say, with amazing Vitti work, Hickman manages to pull some scrupulous traits, tricks and treats out his hat...with Fury pulling strings...and triggers. More revelations, twists and turns join with further unanswered questions, and there are still things lingering that confuse me in the title, and I implore new readers to read as a collective whole TPB. The revolving door of cast members is handled well, and we see other key players rearing their heads here, and who thought lost or dead, well they are not so much lost...or dead...I do miss JT and Phobos and I would love this book to continue, as tie-ins to FEAR and other events would do well to kickstart it all in wrapping long threads and seeds woven in Hick's other books, but he keeps his stuff, even the FF4 and SHIELD, a bit separate...and this book could have done with a slightly greater mainstream touch and influence. Nonetheless, the render Hickman sketches with his tale is a thumbs up by me...9.0/10

129.Secret Avengers 13 -

Will Conrad on the 12.1 was impressive but here, Scott Eaton shows why his rise to prominence as an artist in Doomwar was nothing short of dedication and hard work! Immonen's good but Eaton is simply better...and the FEAR PROLOGUE WITH BRUBAKER...showed this too. Deodato will be missed but FEAR ties in well under this creative team. Eaton is as spot-on as this book could have asked for, and Spencer drops a story of emotionally sound and riveting proportions, as Beast takes center stage with an old friend. It's patriotic, political, resplendent and justice prevails here...standing up for democracy and freedom...and for what's right. It's no to terrorism, and evoking fear is overwhelmed with a nice imbued pattern of a mutant tone to this story. It's a poignant finale in the climax, and a well written book...with little to no main cast holding center court. Few can pull this book off and Spencer takes the light on the stage pretty well...8.0/10