Issue #73: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, October 7, 2009!

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, September 30, 2009:

Superman #692 (World Against Superman #9) (DC) * * * *

Metropolis utilities are still in shambles as the Metropolis heroes and the Metropolis Science Police try to keep order. Zatara hasa a cameo appearance, and the Guardian deals with the disappearance of Mon-El. The end of the issue contains a cameo of a surprising character. Other than an early batlle against some villains who were trying to take advantage of the situation for their own gain, this issue was full of character moments. Some might find it boring but I enjoy them, especially when they advance the story; or maybe I'm just showing my age.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, October 7, 2009:

Superman: World Of New Krypton #8 (of 12) (World Against Superman #10) * * * * *

The conflict between the Thanagarians and New Krypton continues, with Kal-El thinking of a unique attempt to resolve the situation. This series has showcsed Superman and allowed the character to stretch in some unexpected ways. It shows why Superman stands out among a world of "grim and gritty" characters. This mini-series continues to be among the best Superman stories of the year, eclipsed only by the very promising first issue of Superman: Secret Origins.

Planetary #27 (Wildstorm / DC) * * * * *

This final issue of one of my favorite comic book series of all time is really an epilogue issue to the series. The climax of the story was contained in the previous issue, released almost two years ago. This does not take away from this issue at all. I really cn't say there was a disappointing issue in the entire series, and this one is no different. While there were several minor plot threads that were not wrapped up, the one obvious one that seemed to be leading to this issue was Elijah Snow's attempt to save his previously thought dead teammate Ambrose Chase. John Cassaday's artwork, beginning with the fold-out cover, has not lost anything during the hiatus. Writer Warren Ellis continues his excellent job of explaining esoteric scientific theories simply and weaving them into the story. Several supporting characters from earlier issues make appearances, advising Snow while he tries to resolve one last mystery from the old century. If you have not read this series before, there are three trade paperbacks collecting the first eighteen issues. With this last issue now published, look for the remaining nine issues to be collected in various editions. It will be well worth it Plus you'll have the advantage of being able to read these stories in one sitting, instead of waiting over ten years like most of us.

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