Wolverine and the X-Men #21 Review

* CONTAINS SPOILERS*



This was another great issue in Jason Aarons' run on this title. This issue also saw the return of Nick Bradshaws' art working alongside Laura Martin; who may very well be my favorite colorist in comic.
So lets jump right into it and see what is going on in the start of this new story arc. The first thing we see is Kid Omega; who is late for class, but soon realises that all the teachers are not on school grounds and have in fact gone missing. It turns out that they have been kidnapped and brainwashed by Frankensteins' monster who has set up his circus in town in order to take human souls to give to the devil so he can survive. Or something along those lines anyway.
It is up to the kids of the Jean Grey school to rescue their teachers, however the teachers have been ordered to capture all the children, as there is a child at the circus who is a blood relation to Frankenstein. The monster wants to kill this child as punishment for his bloodline creating him.

This is a fun issue that does not take itself too seriously. It is especially fun to see the X-men as circus acts. Seeing Wolverine as the circus clown was by the far one of the best moments in this issue, a long with Kid Omegas' reaction when he saw what was happening at the circus. The kid is pure evil, but you really cant help but love him.
I also enjoyed Kade Kilgore's brief appearance as we saw him continuing his quest to bring an army of new mutants. He seems just as evil and twisted as ever which is nice to know. I am also quite interested of his plan, as if written write it could be quite a test for the X-men when they are finally confronted with the finished product.
This whole problem will likely be resolved in the next issue, but this is a great way to get new readers into the book. What will also help grab new readers attention is the art on show in this issue. It is great to see Nick Bradshaw back and on top form. The colorist was also firing on all cylinders in this book. I believe the circus setting helped her greatly as she could really show off her full pallet. It was full of colors, but done in a way that was not overpowering.

Once again we have been treated to another great issue in this series. Every review on this series I say how great it is and how everyone needs to get involved with it. This issue has not changed my mind. We are just into the second year of this title being on sale, and it looks like it is going to be a very exciting year for Wolverine and his pupils.

Rating: 8 / 10

Comeback #1 Review

A new Image mini series hit the comic book stands this week. At the minute any new mini series by Image is pretty much a major success, so it is very wise to pick up the first issue of any new mini series just in case it is going to be another hit. Which is looking more likely than not.
Anyway, this first issue of "Comeback" focuses on a company called Reconnect, who specialise in going back in time and saving loved ones of their clients from death and bringing them into the future which they were previously not apart of. It is an idea that is very unique, and I can say with some certainty that is a topic that I have never read about before.

The story kicks off showing us a job that two agents of the company are carrying out. It all seems to be going well, until the man dies when he is being transported into the future. We later learn that he had a tumour which the family had not told Reconnect about.
In this issue we also learn a little about the two main agents in the company, who both seem like really interesting characters. We have Mark who you can tell really believes in the company, and believes that he is making a difference in peoples lives. On the other hand you have his partner Seth who seems to be having some problems which have not come out in the open yet. Their partnership has piqued my interest already after one issue, and I am eager to learn what secrets Seth is keeping from his partner and his boss. It cant be anything good that's for sure.
We also are introduced to another individual who works for the company, however it is unclear what part he plays exactly. The last panel shows that he is likely a pretty corrupt employee who may possibly be linked to a darker side of Reconnect. The company obviously provide a great service for people who have recently lost loved ones, however there really does seem to be a dark undertone to them which I am sure will be explored more in other issues. This side may also be something that Mark and Seth are currently unaware of, seeing as they both seem to be pretty decent guys. Or at least that is what we are meant to believe so far.

This first issue of the series has left us with a couple of questions leading in to the next issue. It has definitely done enough to make me want to know more about the company and the people working for it, so I will be picking up the next issue for sure. It is worth a read, so if you fancy something a bit different this month then go ahead and give this one a try.


Rating: 8.5 / 10

Supergirl #14 Review

This is probably the most under the radar book in the DC universe. I do not believe that it has a massive readership at all compared to the Superman books for example, however this book rules each and every month.
This month we have a H'el on Earth tie in, which for once in comics actually felt like a tie in issue should do. It filled in gaps for readers who have not read any of the other tie ins, and we got a really good explanation of who H'el really is. For someone who wasn't went into this issue not too keen on this crossover event, I have come out on the other waiting desperate to read more issues. It does everything that it needed to do.

The main thing in this issue was the confrontation between H'el and Kara. He was trying to convince her to help him save Krypton, seeing as it is her home planet as well as his. Kara was at first unsure whether to trust him, yet she got persuaded that he was on her side. I do not know much about this H'el character but I believe that he is going to be bad guy (surely?). What I really like about this confrontation was how naive Kara still is. She is desperate to see Kryptonian people once again, and her longing for this is making her believe what she feels she has to believe. She was on the verge of ordering H'el to kill Superboy, and she actually believes that at some point it needs to be done.
Kara is not evil at all, she is just very misinformed. She is a teenager lost on what is an alien planet to her, not too sure what is going on. She is still vulnerable 14 issues in to this series, and it is very easy for the reader to feel sorry for her.

I also really enjoyed seeing her new home under the see once again; Sanctuary. It is her Fortress of Solitude, and I really really like it. However, I am not too sure how she is overcome the problem of the large distance that it is from the Sun. Whenever she spends large amounts of time there, she loses a lot of her powers. I am sure a solution will become available, and to be completely honest it is not something that I am too worried about.
What was also very cool was the gift given to her by H'el; she can now understand and speak English. I hope this is something that is going to remain after this crossover event is done with. It is something that I did not expect to happen, and it is something that has needed to happen for some time now. It was a very nice way to do it.

This was yet another solid Supergirl issue. Mike Johnsons' run has been nothing but good and he deserves so much credit. Kara has always been a great character, and I think that this New 52 version of her may be my favourite yet. The art was once again awesome, and it seems to be getting better and better with each issue. I think I may have said that in my review of issue #13, and the art is even better this month than last months issue. This issue left on a cliffhanger, and I cant wait to see what happens in the next issue. This is a series that deserves to be read, and it does really deserve to be one of DC's best selling books.


Rating: 9 / 10

Hawkeye #4 Review

This is by far one of the most surprising titles of 2012. Nobody was really too bothered about it when it first appeared, and now it is the must have book whatever week it comes out. This time around I think that the same can be said about this issue.
It is not as good as the previous two but I think it is better than the first issue (I was in a minority who was not too fond of the first issue), even without the usual artist at hand. Javier Pulido did a good job with the art this month. At first I wasn't too sure, but it definitely grew on me as the issue progressed. It has a really old school feel to it which is something that I like, and it really fit the style of this series in general.

What these four Hawkeye issues have delivered are simple stories with subtle complexities which make them an absolute joy to read. In this issue Clint is told to go to an auction in a foreign country to win a tape that has incriminating evidence against him and the United States. It is not exactly ground breaking stuff, but it is just so well written.

I think this is the best Clint Barton has been written possibly ever. He is such such a likeable character, and has suddenly snuck up my list of favourite Marvel characters. I am sure I am not the only person who has had this happen to them too. He is funny, intelligent, and you really feel for him when he is down in the dumps, like he was briefly at the start of this issue.

This was the first part in what I believe is a two part story. This is also the first time Fraction has done a mini story arc with this book but I do not think that anyone needs to worry. This first part was great, which has made me very excited to read the second part next month. It is the first time that I have had to wait for the next issue so the story can continue with this series. Something tells me it is going to be a long wait.


Rating: 8.5 / 10

Revival #5 Review

If you read my review of the previous issue of this series then you know just how much I love it. The series has been giving more questions than answers after each issue, but that has not been a bad thing at all. In fact, it has helped add to the intrigue and mystery surrounding the revivers and the other characters in the book; who we do not know much about.

In this particular issue we were treated to more action than we are usually used to. This was also not a bad thing at all. There was one long action sequence which was done really well, and I actually did not know how it was going to end. Obviously, the way that it did end was horrific; because this is a horror book after all.

We were also introduced to the back story of the ghoul like figure that has always been in the background of his book. This was also very interesting, and it helped to add depth to a character which has always seemed important. However, it looks like he may have been killed off, which is a major negative for me if that does turn out to be the case. The build up to his reveal has been coming for some time, and for him to just be killed off in half an issue would really bother me. Saying that with this book literally anything can happen so I would not be surprised if he even made an appearance in the next issue. This was shown by a small panel that showed us even if he does not return, then maybe a relative of his will be...
Blaine Abel, the demonologist, who we have got to know a bit was killed off in this issue. This is not something I am happy about, and unfortunately I do not think that he is going to make another appearance. I think the character had a lot of potential, but I am putting my trust with Tim Seeley due to the high level this book is reaching every single month.

Dana is a character that I have been craving to see more of, and I have not been getting it. However, Em has now become my favourite character. She is really messed up; but in a good way I think. It looks as though Dana may have a bigger part to play in the next issue, which will satisfy me I am sure. It also looks like we are going to see more of a character who I believe previously has only had a couple of panels. Very interesting stuff!

I have just realised that in this review I seem to be moaning quite a lot about things I DON'T like, but the act is that I absolutely loved this issue like I have done with all the rest. Yeah a couple of the deaths are frustrating but they were done brilliantly. I am only slightly bothered as I though that these may have been characters that were going to be in for the long haul. Fortunately I think Mr Seeley has many more ideas to come that will make us forget about past events very quickly. For example, the ending of this book has made me really excited for the next issue. I am desperate to know what is coming next.
The art work in this series has constantly been one of my favourite in modern comics, and this issue was no different. In fact I would go as far as saying that it was the best yet in this issue. I think a big part of that has to do with the colours. Especially the colours in the flashback which really helped to set the scene perfectly.

This is a book that has to be picked up. There is literally nothing similar to this anywhere else in the market. It truly is a fantastic book, which is gaining positive attention each and every month. Treat yourself.

Rating: 9 / 10

Indestructible Hulk #1 Review

I have been wanting a Hulk ongoing series to really get my teeth into for a while now. I enjoyed Jason Aarons' run on the title, but it just wasn't the type of Hulk book I was looking for. With Marvel NOW, Mark Waid is attempting to write the book that the fans need. He has worked wonders on Daredevil, so can he do the same with The Hulk.

This issue is more of a set up issue for the series, much like the new Iron Man book, and it really looks as though this may be a series to keep your eyes on. Bruce Banner has come to realise that he has been wasting his intelligence, so he is learning to control the green monster inside him. He knows that when he is focused he can create things that can help and save the world, that is his new goal. However, he wants SHIELD to fund his research, and in return they have The Hulk at their disposal when needed.

I really like this concept and think Waid is going the right way about writing this book. In this issue I really enjoyed the scene in the diner between Hill and Bruce Banner. I thought the tempo was perfect, and the conversation flowed really well. It didn't feel like things were being spelt out for the reader, so I was happy with it.

I also really enjoyed the fight scene with The Thinker. Yeah it was simple and he was never going to be much of a match for The Hulk, but it was nice to see, and it was what the story needed in this particular issue. The art also looked stunning in this scene. However, I found a couple of panels during the fight slightly confusing. I think that may be down to the colours. Let me stress though, I found only a COUPLE of  panels confusing. The art as a whole was fantastic, even in the Diner scene. It is setting a tone, along with Waid's writing that I think suits this book perfectly. I am eagerly anticipating the new issue. You should check this out even if you are not a fan of the main character, because its Mark Waid. That should be reason enough considering the form he is in at the minute.


Rating: 8.5 / 10

Excitement for series: 9 / 10

Daredevil #20 Review

Mark Waid has written without a doubt the most consistent Marvel book of the year. It has been a tremendous read, and it has been great knowing that each issue you pick up; the quality will be exactly the same as the last one you read.This issue is no exception.

In this issue we learned a lot about what The Spot has been up too. Some of this is very very creepy, which leans towards the horror feel that this book has developed. It works very well and does not feel out of place due to what content Waid's run has included. We also learn that he has been contracted to go after Daredevil but I do not believe we know who has contracted him as of yet. This is something that really interests me, and I am desperate to know who it is (and so is Matt Murdock).

I also really enjoyed the scene with Kirsten McDuffie. There was some really sexist content in there that I know some people will not like and will be angered by it. But that is the point. I feel that we are supposed to be pissed off that nobody is taking her seriously. She is character that we as readers have never HAD to feel anything for, but now after this issue I am really rooting for her.

The end of the issue sees Daredevil finally back in one piece (clever), however he is left in a tough situation which he is going to have to fight his way out from. We are also shown the real Spot being held hostage, which begs the question: "who the hell is this Spot then?!?" However, I am sure we will find out more, and as always I am eagerly anticipating the next issue. Of course, being safely in the knowledge that it is going to be excellent as always adds to the excitement of having it in my hands. It feels like the next couple of issues are going to be big ones as we have been left with a few questions from the last couple of issues. It looks as though the time for some of these to be answered is coming fast upon us.


Rating: 8.5 / 10

Amazing Spider Man #698 Review

I have only just picked this book up today (Friday) so have had to try and escape spoilers all week, which I have been lucky enough to do successfully. After reading this issue I was very happy that I did avoid the internet for two days, so if you are not sure what happens in this issue then DO NOT read this review as it will contain some major SPOILERS.

Ok, with that out of the way lets go right into this issue, and what an issue it was! I thought the end of the last story arc was OK, however I was a little disappointed with it as I did not believe it was doing enough to build up to the milestone issue arriving on Boxing Day. However, the start of this story arc has really taken things to another level.

Throughout the issue we see a Peter Parker that we have not seem for a long long time. A confident, self assured young man who seems to be wanting to do the things that readers have been screaming at him to do for some time now. For example, he finally decides that he cant understand why he and MJ are not together any more so he tries to rectify that. It looks as though his life is finally getting back on track, but you can tell by the pace that we are being told a red herring. Everything is happening far too quick, and he has not even encountered Doctor Octopus yet....

So towards the end of this issue he finally does go to see  the Dr, and it is in this scene where this book becomes a key issue in about three panels. We learn that Doc Ock has some how switched his mind with Peter, so he is in Peters' body, while Peters' mind is in his as he lies on his death bed. WOW. The issue ends with Spider Man leaving with the Avengers, but of course it is not the Spider Man that they think he is.

What a great issue. Forget the big shock at the end of the issue for a second, this whole book was fantastic. Dan Slott is back on top form, and just in time too. This really was pretty much a flawless issue. And the art by Richard Elson?  Well that really impressed me too. I hope he is the artist in the next couple of issues too. It was a massive improvement on what we have had in the last couple of arcs. Well, that is my opinion anyway.
Literally anything can happen now in the run up to #700, and I am sure that there will be more shocks on the way. Pick this book up so you can say you were involved in this. Even if you do not pick up this title on a regular basis then jump on with this issue, it really is ideal.


Rating: 10 / 10

Blog Update

Hey Guys!

The rest of my reviews will be late this week unfortunately due to late shipping on my books. They will not arrive until probably Wednesday ( so I will be a whole week behind ). However, I am planning on putting a couple of reviews up anyway due to the sheer awesomeness of some of the titles that came out (Batman, Saga etc). If I have any more updates then I will let you guys know.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend and playing nicely :)

Wolverine and the X-men #20 Review

Wolverine and the X-Men has been one of the most consistent titles being produced throughout the whole of comic books. It is great to see that with this issue not much has changed. Jason Aaron is still doing a fine job, and this latest attempt has shown other writers how to write a great stand alone issue.

This issue mainly focuses on the attempts by Angel to introduce a new mutant to the school. We see how her mutant identity has developed from the very start, as well as her total reluctance to join Angel in travelling back to the school in New York. After a brief encounter with Mystique and the new Silver Samurai, she ends up joining the school, and I am looking forward to seeing how she gets on there. It really does not sound like much, but everything fit perfectly in a totally Jason Aaron kind of way.
What I did really enjoy was the character development of Angel. We learned in this issue that when his powers run out then he will cease to exist. Angel seemed fine with that as he believes he has a mission to find all the new mutants in the world and take them under his wing.
The last page also hints to future plans for upcoming issues. If what was teased at the end is written well then we may be approaching one of the best story arcs in the history of this title. However, I hope it is a bit of a slow burner as this battle between two separate sides really needs to be built up for a while I believe.

The art was hit and miss which is unusual for an issue in this series, however a stand in artist was in place. It wasn't terrible, in fact in some places it was great. It is just some things that did not look right. Beast for example looked terrible in every single panel he was in. Not really too big of a deal as the art in more places than not really did help tell the story and did not ruin the experience in the slightest.

All in all, another solid issue of everyone's favourite X-Men series. You know you have read a great one shot issue when it tells a separate story, as well as giving some great character development  and also developing future story arcs. A very nice read indeed.


Rating: 8 / 10

Suicide Squad #14 Review

Well, this is one strange book to review. I have gone from really looking forward to Suicide Squad after reading last months fine issue, to now most likely dropping it after the Death of The Family ( DOTF ) tie ins are done with. What a massive difference a month makes.

So why is this book a funny one to review? Due to the fact that the DOFT tie in bits are brilliant, and the normal squad bits are very mediocre; that is why. The first half of this issue made up predominately of Harley and The Joker were exceptional. The Joker once again came across as completely terrifying. This new and improved persona he has taken on is more aggressive than anything we have ever seen, and I really hope it is here to stay. All the writers in the Batman family of books seem to be in cahoots on how to write him, which makes it a greater reading experience as the character is not having any major personality fluctuations.  I have heard rumours that it may be a copycat, but I really really hope that is not the case.

Now onto the second part of this issue. It was OK. Nothing great. All we see is the rest of the squad after the last mission which saw the death of Deadshot ( I am gutted about that by the way ). However it never really moved their story anywhere, and it just made me totally uninterested in any future story arc which includes this team. The only slightly interested bit is that Waller is planning on bringing Deadshot back from the dead ( or at least that is how I read it ), which would be pretty cool I guess.

So I have officially given up on this series. Yeah, I will buy the tie in issues just purely for any Joker appearances, and also for his interactions with Harley. Apart from that I am done with this series. I am going to miss Harley as she is one of my favourite DC characters; but alone she does not warrant the money that this series costs. If Harley had her own book then I would not have one single regret about dropping this book. It is a shame really as it used to be such a great series, and I hope one day that it can get back to those heights. If it does then I will no doubt be hopping back on board. But for now, me and this series are estranged.


Rating: 6 / 10

( The Joker and Harley = 7 / 10 )

Daredevil: End Of Days #2

If you read my review of the first issue of this then you know just how excited I was to get my hands on issue #2. After reading the latest issue, I still have the feeling that in years to come this may be spoken about as being one of the best Daredevil stories created.

In this issue we saw Ben Urich continue attempting to piece together Matt Murdock's life; especially the time where he went missing for years after killing the Kingpin. Some well known Marvel characters made an appearance in this issue, which was great to see. I also have the feeling that we will be seeing a few more cameos in future issues as Matt's life is described to Ben by the people who knew him best. It makes sense, and I really believe that this is the route this title is going to go down. I may be proven wrong though, who knows.
The conversation between Ben and Milla was a clear highlight of the book for me, and I am sure that it will be for other Daredevil fans out there. The tension between the two was clear to see. It really came off the pages whilst reading it.

Once again, I love the art. It fits the book perfectly. The gritty art which depicts Hell's Kitchen, and also highlights the gritty end of Daredevil; its perfect. There is also a clear theme of age in regards to Ben. In the book the world is moving forward without him. This is made clear due to his job, as well as the scene where he was looking for information on the Black Widow.

I am very glad that this is an 8 part mini series and not any shorter. If it was I feel that the whole story would not have been told as it was intended to be. It would have felt constrained. Luckily for us, Bendis has pretty much been given as much creative freedom as he wants in regards to length of the series. I really cant wait for the next issue, not only because of my love for the series; but also due to my love of a certain Marvel character that made an appearance right at the end of this issue. If you have not tried this one out yet then I really suggest that you do.


Rating: 8.5 / 10

Colder #1 Review

I am going to be very honest here. I did not know anything about this series at all when I picked this issue up. I didn't even know that it was only a 5 issue mini series when I picked it up. However, what I did know was that this may be the best cover that I have ever seen in my life, and if I did not pick this up then I would never have been able to forgive myself.

Ok, so it has a cool cover, but what was the actual content of the book like? Well, let me tell you, I am very impressed with what I read. There is still a lot of mystery surrounding the events that made Declan into an mute ice man kind of figure, and how he is still alive 70 years after the event that made him what he is. Saying that, I think this issue gave us enough to actually care where it is going to go in the next four issues. A lot of mini series that leave you with more questions than answers fail at keeping  the readers interest, however I think this particular title succeeds nicely in making you want to stick around.

The introduction of one of the creepiest, most mysterious characters I have ever seen; Nimble Jack, is reason enough alone to pick up this issue. What makes him so great to read about is the art that accompanies his dialogue. In fact the art in the whole book is really something else. It really does have to be seen.

The introduction of Reece; the carer for Declan, was also pretty awesome. She seems like a genuine, interesting, likeable character that I am looking forward to reading more of. Especially seeing as Declan has finally come out of the state that he was in. The frames with those two involved in may be worth the price of admission alone for the next issue.

Yes, this book was a very nice little read. There is no question about that. However, it does have some pretty basic faults. I did not like the location of the prison that Nimble Jack sneaked into in the modern day. The prisoner had a window that led right onto a busy street. Really? That seemed really unrealistic. I was also not a fan of the way the female police officer was written. When she was in Reece's  apartment, I really believed for a few panels that she was attempting to come on to her. Maybe these two points are just me, I don't know. Let me know.

This issue was great and I really recommend it. However, the two weak points I picked out above are going to lower the score a little. It is annoying because these are faults that I believe could have been avoided. Regardless, I am very excited for the next issue, and I am also hoping for another kick ass cover!


Rating: 8 / 10

Excitement for future issues / score this should have got if not for some annoying faults: 8.5 / 10

Green Lantern #14 Review

I am going to go on record saying this as I really believe it to be true: "Green Lantern is one of the most consistent books out there today". There I said it.

I cant comment on the other Lantern books, but in this series I think Rise of the Third Army has been awesome thus far. The pace is perfect. Every issue you can feel something building, getting closer and closer to breaking point. It feels great.
What is really great about this comic is once again Baz is leading the way, and successfully pulling it off too. His confrontation with the Justice League showed just how normal and likeable he really is. His conversation with his sister also went a long way in doing that too. He is still getting used to the ring, but it is cool to see how he is progressing along with that. As Flash points out; he is learning fast. This is shown by the way he eventually got away from the Justice League. Inventive and very smart indeed.
Speaking of the Flash, his line about Guy Gardner made me laugh out loud. I love the Justice League version of him, but that is a story for another book.
I also really enjoyed the conversation between the Guardians and the First Lantern. The fact that even he believes that what they are doing is wrong just goes to show how deluded the Guardians are. It also highlighted that we should not forget about the First Lantern just yet. I have a feeling he has more of a part to play in this than first thought.
 The Black Hand' brief appearance was also awesome, acting as a way to give a quick recap on current events for readers who may have missed an issue or two.

I have mentioned this before but I will mention it again; the pencils and colours in this book are exceptional. I would go as far as saying that the art in this book is my favourite out of all the current DC titles. I think that is really saying something. There was no two page spread in this particular issue, but when one is included it is always mind blowing.

We may have only had one panel showing the Third Army in this entire issue, but the danger they pose flows throughout the book very nicely. I am looking forward to see Baz continue on his personal mission in the next issue, as well as what lies ahead for Hal and Sinestro due to what was teased on the very last page. Of course we cant forget the Rise of the Third Army. Yeah, I am pretty much hyped for everything about the next issue. It can not come quickly enough.

Rating: 9 / 10


Note: It is funny writing reviews for comics. I read this comic and thought " yeah I will give this a 8, maybe an 8.5". However, when I collected my thoughts on this issue and put them down on the computer screen in front of me, it became clear to me just how much fun I had with this book. This is what saw the score rise. I have found this with a few books that I have reviewed. It is not a bad thing at all, in fact I think it is great. I am getting a sense of how much I am enjoying reading some of these books when I have to really think about what I have just read.
So thanks guys for checking this blog out. You are making me realise why I love comics so much.  :)

Iron Man #1 Review

I picked this up eagerly anticipating a change of pace from the Matt Fraction run on "Invincible Iron Man". I was a fan of the Fraction run but I missed a few issues and got behind; never really catching up. Therefore I missed out on what seems to have been a lot of Iron Man goodness. This was my chance to get back into it, and I think I may be in for the long haul.

This particular issue is pretty much a set up issue for the first arc. Not only that but it also goes some way into describing what kind of a person Tony Stark is, which is: egotistical , arrogant; all the reasons we love him basically. So this book was pretty new reader friendly. Which makes sense considering the third instalment of the film franchise is just round the corner.

Putting all these factors together, I thought that this was a really enjoyable first issue. I love the fact that Extremis is back, and I look forward to the Enhanciles that Mr Stark will be battling against in forthcoming issues. One of my only gripes with it is that I am not really too keen on how Tony looks. I cant put my finger on it, but it may be the Robert Downey Jr effect. I don't know.

With all the positives mentioned, I still find this issue pretty hard to rate. It is a great set up issue, but it was a pretty thin read with not a great deal really happening. Saying that, I did think it had a good pace to it though compared to the slow burn of Fraction. You can tell this book is going to be full of action, and that is what is bringing me back for the next issue. Yes the issue was good; but it was not amazing. However, it has got me invested in the series  for future issues, which is what the first issue should be doing right?
If you have any interest in Iron Man then I recommend you give this a go. If you were a massive fan of Fraction, then give it a miss.


Issue Rating: 7.5 / 10

Excitement for future issues: 8 / 10

Animal Man #14 Review

Animal Man has been one of the surprise hits of the New 52. Jeff Lemire has been hitting it out of the park most months, however I feel like the last 2 or 3 issues have not been up to the standards that we have got used too. This "Rotworld" story arc is something that I was a bit unsure about. Saying that, this issue has gone some way into persuading me that Animal Man is starting to get back on track.

I think the best part of this issue, as well as this arc so far, are the flashbacks to Buddy's family before Rotworld began. The start of this issue was something that I wasn't expecting, half due to the fact that I forgot what happened at the end of last issue. However, seeing Buddy's family pretty much destroyed within the first couple of pages was shocking to say the least.
Maxine is now the last one standing. "Little Wing" was someone who I wasn't really too bothered about throughout the series until this issue. I am starting to see some great possibilities for some fantastic character development. I always forget that she is only four years old, and it is now clear that she will be facing some really difficult decisions in the next couple of issues. It is starting to look as though this part of the story is worth the price of admission alone.

Lets not forget what is happening in the other half of the book, Buddy Baker in Rotworld itself. In this issue we saw Buddy and the rest of the gang fighting some of Arcane's men which were sent for them; it was a nice little batlle. However, what we learned at the end of the battle is what was the most interesting; Maxine is being held captive by Arcane, and that Buddy must go after Arcane in order to save her.
I felt that this twist along with the surrounding area that Buddy finds himself in; gave this story arc a bit if a Stephen King feel to it. It is pretty hard to explain unless you are a fan of Kings' work, but it just feels very familiar; which is a really good thing by the way. I think some of this may be down to the art of Steve Pugh, along with the colours of Lovern Kindzierski. These two combine to give the book a very unique feel to it, as well as making it feel like a comic book for some sort of Stephen King novel.

All in all I feel like I am once again invested in the story of Buddy Baker; and I wish him all the best in it. I hope Lemire prolongs the travelling aspect of the book so we get to see more of the environment. However, I am now confident that whatever path is chosen, it will most probably be the correct one.


Rating: 8/10

Bedlam #1 Review

The feeling I got from reading this book was the same I got after first reading Saga #1. That is how good this book is,and how high my expectations are for future issues. If you are a horror fan of any kind then this is definitely for you.

The books starts off as we see some of the actions of a character called Madder Red. He is pretty much the joker. However, he may be even more twisted than Gotham City's biggest villain. The story then shifts to present day as we see Fillmore Press, a man who seems like he probably used to be Madder Red, going through everyday life. The way the book shifts back and to is absolutely superb.
The dialogue from both Red and Fillmore Press is gripping stuff. I found myself totally immersed in what they were saying. I am not saying what they had to say was sane in any way, because trust me, it wasn't. What it was was though was intriguing, and it led to some scenes that were just downright creepy.

Now lets talk about the art. If the art was any different to what it is, then this book would not work nearly half as well as it does. Riley Rossmo knocks it out of the park. It has a kind of scratchy effect, which when I first saw the preview I actually was not too sure whether I liked it. However, after reading the first couple of pages you soon realise that Rossmo is the perfect artist for this job.

It may be too soon to say that this series is going to be a massive hit. However, the main characters in this book are written so well, it is difficult to see how this book can fail. Also bear in mind that this is written by none other than Nick Spencer (Morning Glories), and we are pretty much onto a winner with this title. 


Rating 10/10

This is my first ever 10/10 rating on this blog. That shows just how much I loved this book. Pick it up!

Hit-Girl #4 Review

Hit-Girl may be one of my favourite comic book characters of all time. I absolutely adore her.I adore her so much, I was worried that this mini series may not be as good as I hoped it to be. I was wrong. It has been everything I expected it to be and more.

Mark Millar has done a great job with this series. It has everything. Some people assume that it is just going to be blood and gore in a typical Hit-Girl sort of way. That is not true. This book has so many different factors and so many different story threads running through it which are all interlinked, which really makes it a joy to read.

The way Hit-Girl escaped from the drugs warehouse which she found herself in at the end of last issue was genius  She used her brain as well as her bullets!
Now what stood out for me in this issue was the race home that followed her escape from the warehouse. Her stepfather was racing home on a different route from Mindy in order to catch her on out in the act of being Hit-Girl. This led to a few tense panels, and I really didn't know how it was going to pan out.
What I also liked was the brief scene of Mindy in school. It is brilliant to see how her character has developed from being a loser, to the girl everyone wants to be at school. Obviously Mindy has her own reasons for acting like she is doing, and what this shows is just how easy it is to become popular in high school. Well, as long as you fake everything about yourself.

We only have one issue left of this series and I cant wait to see how it ends. The final panel of this book shows that we are in for a tense finale. However, I am slightly worried it is going to end a different way than what I would like. But if it does end this way then I think we may even get a Hit-Girl 2 at some point. Which would no doubt be just as epic as this series has been. Here's to #5 next month!

Rating: 8.5/10

Happy #2 Review

I still think that this series really has to be read to be believed. Based on an ex police detective turned hit man who is one of only two people who can see Happy the blue horse, this is a wild ride indeed. The first issue really impressed me, and I went into this issue eager to find out what came next. If you like blood, corruption, and blue cartoon horses, then this series is for you too.

The first thing we saw was Nick escaping from the hospital he was in with the help of his new companion. The fight that broke out between Nick and the bad guys was awesome to view. It was very bloody indeed, and helped along with nice little anecdotes from Happy, it felt very surreal.

What was made clear to the reader in this issue is the fact that Nick Sax is a real ass hole  He has absolutely no interest in helping save Happy' friend. Instead, he uses the horse for his own gain which was demonstrated nicely in a high stakes poker game. The game was great, very very tense, and you could really sense the danger that surrounded Nick. However, he gave Happy his word that he would help him, which he later went back on. I find it hard to understand why he wont help him, but I guess that's because I am not Nick Sax. Anyway, he must decide to help him at some point otherwise the story will limp to a pointless conclusion.

The art was once again great. It has a really gritty atmosphere, which is something I love in a comic book like this. Happy is the most colourful thing in the book, which makes sense considering what his character is. The one thing I was not keen on in this book, is that we didn't actually get to see the fight that broke out at the poker game, only the aftermath. We may have already seen one big fight scene, but I would have enjoyed another considering how well the first one was done.

Grant Morrison is still surprising me with this series. I stated in my review of Happy #1 that I wasn't really a big fan of his, however my opinion is slowly changing. We are now halfway through this mini series, and if the remaining two issues are as good as the first, then this may be the best mini of the year.


Rating: 8/10

Ultimate Spider-Man #16.1 Review

I have been dipping in and out of this series for a while now. Whenever I pick up an issue I always think "why the hell did I drop this". This point one issue has made that point even clearer. Miles Morales in such a great character, and a very suitable Spider-Man. However, he hardly features in this book, so what makes this issue so great?

This story follows the journalist Becky Brant as she stumbles across the identity of wall crawler after watching footage of the fight that broke out between Miles and his Uncle Aaron. It turns out she actually thinks that Spider-Man is Miles' father, which is something we do not discover until later on in the issue.

What I really enjoyed in this issue was the way Becky went about finding solid proof for her story. The pages that followed showed how a hungry journalist works, and the lengths that they are willing to go to to find a story. When she finally got all her evidence, she was once again rejected by Jonah as he did not feel that the story was in the public interest. The final panel sees her getting possibly killed by a certain Spidey favourite.

This book was great and really was utilised well as a point one jumping on point for new readers. The art once again was amazing, which has been a constant throughout this series. Some of the splash pages were tremendous, especially the one that saw Becky searching Uncle Aaron's old apartment. Personally I haven't seen anything like that before which made it a joy to view. The level of consistency that this book has is on a completely different level to most books out there. So go on jump on. I doubt you will be getting off any time soon.

Rating: 9 / 10

Wolverine and the X Men #19 Review

This series has constantly impressed me over the first 18 issues of its run. Some of the tie in issues to AvX did feel a bit forced, and were maybe a little poor, but that was to be expected. Now all that is behind us, here Jason Aaron gives readers a perfect jumping on point to kick on from.

So many different things happened in this issue. Firstly, throughout the issue Kitty was interviewing for the vacant teachers post that Hush left. These frames kept popping up and were absolutely fantastic. Some of the candidates were brilliant (Deadpool, Blade, Spider-Man), and I was very eager to come across more of them as soon as I figured out that it was a continuous theme throughout the issue.

We also saw a character developing moment for Toad the janitor in this issue. In the series so far he has always been in the background, gaining no real interest from myself and possibly others. However, in this issue we see that he may have a nasty side to him which we could be seeing more of in future issues.
The Hellfire club still seem very evil which is to be expected. Their little trick on Wolverine was very low, but shows just how seriously they should be taken.
A new villain was showcased at the end of the issue which could be interesting. It is not made clear what is going on with that just yet, but I expect it to be great like the rest of this current run.

Seeing Hank attend to Broo was one of the more sombre moments of the issue. Broo has been a big favourite of the fans throughout the series, and you can tell that the writers also feel that way. This was shown by the way some Marvel characters have reacted to Broo's current state. I really dont think we have seen the last of Broo, and I am hoping he makes a full recovery. He is one of the many highlights of the book and it would be a shame to have him written out completely.

Nick Bradshaw returned to the series with this issue, and let me tell you his art is worth the price of admission alone. He is back on top form this month and it is truly great to see. His art was just made for this book. It fits it to perfection.

All in all another great issue in this series. We were shown future plot points and they all look to be really interesting. I was worried Aaron was going to lose momentum after the stop start of AvX, but I have been proven wrong here. Eagerly anticipating the next issue, along with the rest in what will be the second year for this title.


Rating: 8.5 / 10