Comic books for the week of Wednesday, September 16, 2009:
Action Comics #881 (World Against Superman #7, The Hunt For Reactron: part I) (DC) * * *
This was the most disappointing issue of the whole World Without Superman storyline. Twice in this issue Supergirl and Flamebird come to blows over Kara's bitterness over Thara's supposed role in her father's death. Both times they draw the attention of the Earth's defense forces. I could understand the first time, but it seemed neither heroine learned the lesson the first time. I wished Greg Rucka would have found another way to explore the conflict between the two women than having them come to blows and then under attack by Earth forces, twice. It seemed to be just a typical super hero fight, seen too many times in comic books. I hope future issues don't repeat this same routine. The art is great and there were some interesting moments in this issue. Gen. Lane's plans continue to develop, and Jimmy Olsen's absence is being felt at the Daily Planet. Lois' conflict with Cat Grant is also heating up. These plot threads bumped my rating from 2 ( * ) to 3 ( *).
Comic books for the week of Wednesday, September 23, 2009:
Supergirl #45 (World Against Superman #8, The Hunt For Reactron, part II) (DC) * * *
This issue was better than Action Comics #881. After the battle between Supergirl, Nightwing and Flamebird against Earth forces in Paris, Lois Lane's conflict with Cat Grant continues to escalate. The mystery continues about Lana's illness, but Thara senses something is wong with her. Gen. Lane continues his machinations. The plot thread of the conflict between Kara and Thara was advanced in a more satisfying way than Action #881, less fisticuffs and more character development.
Terry Moore's Echo (Abstract Studios) * * * * *
The issue opens with a scene portraying the reason Julie's sister Pam had a mental breakdown. Trouble comes to Julies front door, literally, and Ivy shows why she is not someone you'd want to get on her bad side. Character introductions are over, and the plot is developing at breakneck speed. The ending of this issue can only be called unusual. Terry Moore has shown he is one of the best comic book creators working today. He is one of those comic book professionals that anyone interested in the craft of comic book storytelling can learn from studying each issue of their titles.
Invincible #66 (Image) * * * * *
In this issue, subtitled A Viltrumite War Prelude, begins with Nolan Grayson revealing more Viltrumite history to his new partner Allen the Alien, explaining why the Viltrumites are actually weaker than anyone could believe. After a brief meeting with the leader of the Coalition of Planets, the pair begin their search of space for the things they will need against the Viltrumite empire. And is there a hint of who the Viltrumite spy in the Coalition is? Robert Kirkman does his usual excellent job of comibining action and character development, setting the stage for what promises to be a very exciting storyline about the ultimate battle against the Viltrumite Empire. This issue was also a nice reunion with Invincible co-creator and original artist Cory Walker.
Superman: Secret Origins #1 (of 6) (DC) * * * * *
This first issue of Geoff Johns' and Gary Franks' highly anticipated mini-series, revising Superman's origins for today lived up to the hype, and more. Clark's special abilities are shown developing, in ways that were not always convenient for young Clark. His relationship with Lana and Pete is established early in the issue, as well as the reason why Lana is aware of his developing powers. The struggles that Ma and Pa Kent experience while raising a "special" son are also explored. How Clark discovers his true origins is similar to how it is shown in John Byrne's Man Of Steel mini-series but given its own spin. Lex Luthor's origins harken back to his silver age past while incorporating elements from his youth as portrayed in the one issue story Lex Luthor: The Unauthorized Biography. This first issue is a perfect example of Geoff Jons best knack for taking elements of a character's past and weaving them together with the story he wants to tell, acknowledging the past while taking the story in his direction, at the same time. And the next issue plug, for Superboy and the Legion Of Super-Heroes, made me look forward to reading his version of that classic team-up.
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