Issue #121_ Catch Up Week #27 Part I: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, May 11, 2011:

Superman #711 (DC)
Cinderella: Fables Are Forever #4 (of 6) (Vertigo/DC)
John Byrne's Next Men #6 (IDW)

Superman #711 (DC) *  *  *

The issue begins with Superman reaching Provo, Utah and receiving the key to the city from the Mayor. But he hears Jimmy's signal watch in Las Vegas and faces off against Livewire. Once again I'm pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this title more than what I thought I would. Chris Roberson continues to make a terrible story idea begun by J. Michael Stracyznski more palatable. How the Man of Steel eventually defeats Livewire is very clever and hearkens back to earlier continuity. I also enjoyed Superman using his mind to overcome his adversary. Brains beat brawn, every time. He also got to meet his inspiration for being a hero, and gave a great definition for "Truth, Justice and the American Way" after revoking his U. S. citizenship in Action Comics #900. The only downer of the issue was the Man of Steel's conjecture about the reasons Livewire turned to a life of crime after she became an electromagnetic being, possible fixating her hate on him. I wanted to tell Superman, "It's not always about you, Superman. When someone becomes a criminal, the responsibility is all theirs, and they need to face the consequences." Otherwise I would have given it 4 (*'s) instead of 3.

Cinderella: Fables Are Forever #4 (of 6) (Vertigo/DC) *  *  *  *  *


Cinderella continues her quest against her greatest enemy, the Silver Slipper. With each issue of this mini-series we learn more of their tangled history. Cinderella had allowed herself to be captured last issue, and in this issue she comes closer to reaching her adversary. As Bigby taught her, "It's not a trap if you're aware of it  first." Chris Roberson is quickly becoming one of those comic book writers I want to read more from, as money allows. I can't wait to read how this mini-series ends with the final two issues.

John Byrne's Next Men #6 (IDW) *  *  *  *  *


With the end of the Civil War, Antonia begins her quest to reach Washington, D. C., and she won;t be making her trip alone. It's fun to watch her use her 21st Century training to avoid being captured several times. The end of the issue has a surprise twist, which is common to this series. It leaves me wanting more, but that's the idea isn't it? And the next issue cover teaser helps also. It appears the story will highlight other Next Men in another era.
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