Issue #77, Catch Up Week #15, Part II: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, December 9, 2009 & The Week Of Wednesday, December 16, 2009:

Comic books for the the week of Wednesday, December 9, 2009:

DC Holiday Special '09 (DC)
Adventure Comics #5/508 (DC)
Action Comics #884 (World Against Superman #19)

DC Holiday Special '09 (DC) * * * ( * )

This special issue contains sixteen short Christmas sotries. It opens with Batman and Superman stories. I thought that the Batman story was a little better, but the Superman story had a humorous ending. The Doom Patrol story had a touching ending, as did the Martian Manhunter story. The most unusual story featured Bwana Beast, which illustrated a hymn written by William Lowper from the 18th Century. there was even a Hanukkah story featuring Ragman. I would give it 3 ( * )'s on average, but my favorites, and the ones I give 4 (*)'s, are the stories featuring Sgt. Rock and Enemy Ace, done by Billy Tucci and drawn by Howard Chaykin respectively. Billy Tucci's Sgt. Rock story illustrated a true story from WW II, which Tucci researched, wrote and drew. Chaykin's Enemy Ace story, which he served as the artist of, illustrated a true story from WW I, when German and Allied soldiers crossed the battlefield to share some holiday cheer and take a break from war.

Adventure Comics #5/508 (DC) * * *

This issue was another Blackest Night tie-in featuring Superboy Prime against a group of Black Lanterns lead by Alexander Luthor. Being Earth Prime, the battle takes the combatants to a very unusual place, but satisfying to comic readers who aren't enjoying some of DC's editorial decisions of late. I enjoyed the second feature on Conner Kent Superboy. We learn who Superboy's troubled friend Lori is related to, and the issue ends with someone returning to Smallville. The only criticism I have is no Legion story.

Action Comics #884 (World Against Superman #19) (DC) * * * *

The Chris Kent health plotline seems to be resolved in this issue, and, as the cover suggests, Lois is arrested by the authorities and learns some umpleasant truths which lead her to make a heavy choice. All this and a deal with the devil, in a manner of speaking (although not in a Peter Parker sense). My favorite part of the issue was the Lois plot. I can't wait to read what she does next. The Captain Atom second feature really hasn't interested me, so I've barely looked at it, although fans of the character may enjoy it.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, December 16, 2009:

Supergirl #48 (World Against Superman 20) * * *

Supergirl finally confronts Lana about her health problems and then is summoned by Inspector Henderson to assist on the Silver Banshee case. The story takes several suprise twists at the end. While a solid story, I'm not sure how it ties into the World Against Superman storyline. If it wasn't part of this other over-arching story I might rate it a little higher.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.

Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com/. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com/. Send e-mail about this podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #77: Catch Up Week #15, Part I: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, November 25, 2009 & The Week Of Wednesday, December 2, 2009:

Before the New Year I have some unfinished business on this blog, with about a month's worth of comic books to review. To make this entry easier to read I'm breaking it into two parts, and hope to give detailed, yet to the point reviews so that it won't be too long.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, November 25, 2009

The Tick: New Series #1 (New England Comics)
Superman #694 (World Against Superman #17) (DC)
Superman: Secret Origins #3 (of 6) (DC)
Powers #1 (vol. III) (Icon/Marvel)

The Tick: New Series #1 (New England Comics) * * * *

Now this is a Tick story I can enjoy. I dropped the Manga Tick mini-series because I'm not familiar with manga, but someone who is might enjoy it. Since this issue was published during the holiday season Tick and the heroes are going to a Christmas party at the Comet Club. For their gift exchange they play "dirty Santa". If you're not familiar with the game, don't worry, the story explains how to play it. Some familiar sidekicks and villains even make an appearance. And yes, even Barry shows up and learns a very painful lesson about stealing a gift meant for someone else. It was a great issue full of crazy Tick yuletide action, and made me look forward to this ongoing bi-monthly series.

Superman #694 (World Against Superman #17) * * *

The cover features Mon-El in a modified costume, with a small Superman "S" over his heart. Two plot threads tell the story: Mon-El making a very timely return to assist the Science Police against Bizarro, and his earlier return to the Kent farm to talk with Conner Kent and, more importantly, Ma Kent. The issue also contains a surprising reveal. A good combination of action and character moments come together at the end of the issue to tell a very satisfying story.

Superman: Secret Origin #3 (of 6) (DC) * * * *

My favorite issue of this mini-series was the previous one, but this is a close second. It shows a grown Clark on his first day in Metropolis and on the job at the Daily Planet. This is a different Metropolis and Planet than we have seen before, for reasons I will leave for you to find out for yourself. The familiar Planet staff are appropriately younger and act accordingly. There are many elements in this issue that harken back to Richard Donner's Superman: The Movie. For those who may not know, before he began a career in comic books, writer Geoff Johns worked for Donner. This updated origin does not, for the most part, seem to contradict past Superman continuity (except for the return of the Clark Kent Superboy), but add different details to a familiar origin. Having read a number of Superman origin stories, stretching back to the first full origin told at his 10 year anniversary, this series continues the evolving origin that has developed over the decades. I'm looking forward to the second half by the team of Johns and Franks.

Powers #1 (vol. III) (Icon/Marvel) * * * * *

The last issue of Powers to be published was issue #30 of the previous second volume, over a year ago on September 24, 2008. It's been a long wait but well worth it. This first issue of the third volume continues after the events of the aforementioned issue 30. We see what type of working relationship Walker has with his partner Enki Sunrise, who replaced his first partner of this series, Deena Pilgrim. This issue opens the door to more of her background, which wasn't mentioned much in the later issues of the second volume. Also, there seems to be something going on with Walker's girlfriend Heather. Their first case on this new issue #1 involves the murder of someone Walker knew as "Z". Then we see a little more of his past, this time in the 1950's as part of a superhero Brat Pack. I'll leave it to you to decide which member of the real Brat Pack Walker and the other heroes resemble. By the end of the issue I wonder if the details of this case, and Walker's past, might come to light that he might not want revealed. The long hiatus has not made Powers miss a step in quality. Note: The Powers Encyclopedia has been published but I did not get my copy before Acme Comics in Longwood, Florida sold out. The shop ordered one for me but I have not had a chance to go there and pick it up yet.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Invincible Presents Atom Eve & Rex Splode #2 (of 2) (Image)
Terry Moore's Echo #17 (Abstract Studios)
Superman: World Of New Krypton #10 (of 12) (DC)

Invincible Presents Atom Eve & Rex Splode #2 (of 3) (Image) * * * *


In this middle part of the mini-series we see the first time Rex and Eve meet. Rex also discovers a connection between his benefactor and his family, and the fine print of his deal with Mr. Radcliffe. We learn some of the reasons Rex was sometimes a jerk, especially to Eve, in past issues of Invincible. While they don't excuse his actions we see what could have made him that way. The ending is very shocking and builds the anticipation for the concluding issue. While Robert Kirkman did not write this series, he did serve as an editor, and his influence can be seen in the story, from explosive action and character development.

Terry Moore's Echo #17 (Abstract Studios) * * * * *

This issue finally answers the questions about the project that Annie was working on, and what the ultimate goal of the project is. If anyone hasn't read past issues of this series, the back story in this issue fills a majority of the pages. It serves as a good jumping on point for the series, and should hook a new reader enough to seek past issues or their collected editions. This issue both answered a lot of questions and boosted the threat Julie, her sister, Dillon and Ivy, and everyone else face.

Superman: World Of New Krypton #10 (World Against Superman #18) * * * *

This issue reveals the answers to the mystery of Adam Strange's appearance over a dead Kryptonian on New Krypton. Tensions between the guilds, especially the Labor Guild, continue to build, and there are also growing pains to the environment on the planet. While the murder mystery isn't solved, clues are revealed, as well as some more political intrigue.With only two issues left I wondered how the mini-series would wrap up. IN recent weeks DC Comics has announced that, beginning in March of 2010, a 3 issue mini-series, Superman: Last Stand Of New Krypton will begin. Brainiac will attack New Krypton to reclaim Kandor, while General Zod has devised a defense against their former captor at the expense of Earth. Superman will have to stop both madmen. So the end of this twelve issue mini-series will not be the end of the story.


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Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com/. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com/. Send e-mail about this podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #76: Comic Books For The Weeks Of Wednesday, November 11, 2009 & Wednesday, November 18, 2009!

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, November 11, 2009:

Batman / Doc Savage Special #1 (One Shot) (First Wave/DC)
Terry Moore's Echo #16 (Abstract Studios)
Action Comics #883 (DC)

Batman / Doc Savage #1 (One Shot) (First Wave/DC) * * * *

This one shot issue combines two golden age characters, Batman and his pulp ancestor Doc Savage (who is probably more an ancestor and inspiration for Superman). This is not the Batman we are familiar with, but more of a pulp character. In the first scene of the story we see that this Batman has more in common with his original golden age version in one regard, if you are familiar with those early Batman stories. He is a suspect in a murder, when he is spotted at the scene of the crime as he investigates the crime. Doc Savage travels to Gotham City. Jim Gordon is a supporting character in this story, but, like Batman / Bruce Wayne is cast in a different light. Of course Doc and Batman inevitably are drawn to a conflict against one another, but it avoids the cliches of the usual first meeting of super heroes. This issue serves as an introduction to (I guess you could call it) a new First Wave imprint, of characters that DC has regained the comic book rights too. In the back of the issue is an introductory section of the First Wave line of charcters. Included with this version of Batman and Doc Savage will be Justice, Inc. The Spirit, Black Canary, Rima the Jungle Girl and the Blackhawks. The Spirit and the Blackhawks interest me the most, but I'm not sure about this version of the Blackhawks. I read their stories in the 1960's as well as my favorite stories of the late 1980's and early 1990's. The First Wave seems to be a line of characters cast more in the pulp magazine mold, from the era that was the immediate predecessor to comic books. While I doubt I will have the budget to check any more of these titles out when it premiers in March 2010, if you have enjoyed any of the old pulp stories, or enjoy new looks at familiar characters, this may be a line of titles to check out.

Terry Moore's Echo #16 (Abstract Studios) * * * * *

Julie has a new ally in her run fron the HeNri corporation, and it looks like she's going to need it. We also learn what happened to Mr. Liu after the events of the last issue. Julie continues to have flashes of contact with Annie, and the metallic skin on Julie's body manifests another property. This is another excellent issue of a fantastic series. Each issue builds on the last and leaves me asking, "What happens next?"

Action Comics #883 (World Against Superman #15) (DC) * * * *

Nightwing and Flamebird continue their search for the most dangerous of General Zod's sleeper agents on Earth, but the target of their search is interested in one of them as well. Perry White becomes more involved in the plotline of Jimmy Olsen's disappearance, as detailed in the Jimmy Olsen Special #2. The issue ends with a major development in the lives of one of this new Dynamic Duo. This was a great combination of character development and plot building, which heightens the anticipation of the next issue.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, November 18, 2009:

Supergirl #47 (World Against Superman #16) (DC)
Adventure Comics #4/507 (DC)
Invincible #68 (Image)

Supergirl #47 (World Against Superman #16) (DC) * * * * *

This is my favorite Supergirl issue I've read since I began reading the title, when it began tying in to the New Krypton story. This issue reveals the courtship of Allura and her late husband Zor-El, the obstacles they had to overcome to consumate their romance and just how deep her loss is. The other plot thread of the story is the trial and judgement of Reactron for his crimes. There are many Kryptonians in New Krypton who want a piece of Reactron. All I have to say about Reactron is that I wouldn't want to trade places with him. I would rank this issue among my favorites since the beginning of the New Krypton. We get to see mre of Allura beyond the ice queen leader of New Krypton. The story carried me through a wide emotional spectrum from the budding love between Allura and Zor-El to her grief and anger in the present. And the ending leaves me anxious to see what happens next in New Krypton. General Lane isn't the only one who has secret plans.

Adventure Comics #4/507 (DC) * * * * *

I knew this would be a great issue when I saw the Jerry Ordway cover. His art was the first Superman art I saw when I first began collecting comic books on a regular monthly basis in the late 1980's, and he is one of my favorite Superman artists, after Curt Swan and John Byrne. The Legion second feature, or backup story if you prefer, was the best Legion story of this short run on the new Adventure Comics. The Superboy story is a Blackest Night tie-in, not with the Conner Kent Superboy, but with Superboy Prime. Ordway pencilled the Superboy story, which shows the Black Lantern Alexander Luthor go after Superboy Prime. The 31st Century Legion of Earth Prime even makes an appearance. Along with the superhero battle, the story also manages to insert a bit of humor into the plot as it pokes fun at some of the trappings of the comic book collecting hobby. If we can't laugh at ourselves then we're taking ourselves too seriously. The Legion story at the back of the issue is about how the consequences of the ending of Legion Of 3 Worlds mini-series affects Legionnaires Blok and White Witch. It's great to see this new Legion story continue the tradition of past Legion issues of taking the time to show how events affect them on a personal level. The story in this issue explores the depth of the love that Blok and White Witch have for each other. How the conclusion of this story will affect the Legion will keep me coming back for more.

Invincible #68 (Image) * * * * *

The issue opens with Invincible helping clean up the ruble from the recent battle against Conquest. He is wearing high-tech casts as he recovers from his injuries incurred in the battle. Invincible is attacked by a new super villain who has a unique motivation for battling Invincible. After this new battle Invincible faces an even more daunting task, dinner with his girlfriend Atom Eve's parents. Atom Eve has also found a unique way for her and Invincible to earn money as super heroes. We are given a hint of one of his upcoming super villains, and there are several plot twists, one of a super hero type, one more personal, that will affect our heroes in the future. This was kind of an in between issue, as it wrapped up the old story and laid the foundations for future plots. Why is it that when writer Robert Kirkman does this type of issue it is as satisfying as an action packed super hero battle, while others can't quite do the same type of story and make it as satisfying. I've probably said it before but Kirkman has proven to me that he can weave future stories in a plot and let them grow for a number of issues until they become the featured plot of an issue. I would call Invincible a super hero title for people who don't like super hero comic books. It's a character driven title that still delivers complex and satisfying plots. That's why, even though I'm not a big zombie fan, I've enjoyed reading the first two Walking Dead paperbacks. It's not a zombie comic; it's a story about a group of people who try to survive the collapse of civilization.

The next group of titles on my pull list:

For the week of Wednesday, November 25, 2009:
The Tick #1 (New England Comics) ? (Possibly, if I like it. I really haven't cared for the manga Tick mini-series and won't be picking up the rest of that title.)
Powers Encyclopedia #1 (One Shot) long delayed, it's finally here!
Powers #1 (vol. 3) (Icon/Marvel) After the way the last storyline concluded, I'm looking forward to reading where this title is going next.
Superman (DC) The further adventures of Mon-El.
Superman: Secret Origin #3 (of 6) (DC) Mr. Kent goes to Metropolis, for the first time once again.

For the week of Thursday, December 3, 2009: (because of the Thanksgiving Day holiday)
Invincible Presents: Atom Eve & Rex Plode #2 (0f 2) (Image)
Terry Moore's Echo #17 (Abstract Studios)
Superman: World Of New Krypton #10 (of 12) (DC)

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.

Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com/. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com/. Send e-mail about this podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #75: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, November 4, 2009!

Late comic book for the week of Wednesday, October 14, 2009:

Adventure Comics #3/503 (DC) * * * 1/2

I was very negligent as a Legion fan when I didn't notice this issue came out last month. But I've made amends by getting this issue this week. The first story continued the Superboy feature, The Boy Of Steel, where Conner Kent adjusted to like again, both as a student at Smallville High and as a super hero. There was a humorous scene with Superboy about the problems with playing fetch with a super pet. The rest of the story was Conner reconnecting with Tim Drake / Red Robin. They worked together on their twin searches for Bruce Wayne and Lex Luthor. I especially enjoyed the character moments between Tim and Conner as they shared each other's burdens. At the end of this chapter it turns out that Conner and Tim aren't the only ones searching for someone, which bodes ill for future issues. I would give this story 4 (*)'s.

The Legion story was okay. It had some humorous moments between Sun Boy and Polar Boy at Polar Boy's very hot home planet of Tharr. They are there to search for Cryo-King. The rest of the story is a super battle. The best part of the story was the reveal at the end. Overall I would give it 3 (*)'s. It was a good action story but nothing to push it over the top to rate it higher. That's why I split the difference with rating the issue overall.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, October 28, 2009:

Invincible presents Atom Eve & Rex Splode #1 (of 3) (Image)
Superman #693 (World Against Superman #13) (DC)
Superman: World Of New Krypton #9 (World Against Superman #14)

Invincible presents Atom Eve & Rex Splode #1 (of 3) (Image) * * * *

This mini-series, as the title implies, gives the origin story of the relationship between Rex and Eve. This is done by the same creative team that did the previous Atom Eve mini-series. The new one begins with the story of Rex Splode as a boy. I thought Eve had a rough start, but she experienced nothing compared to Rex's childhood. How he came to possess super powers is a long and sad story, but I won't spoil the plot here. The art has improved from the first issue of the previous Eve issues. If you want to learn more about Rex's background, even if you don't read Robert Kirkman's other hero title Invincible, this mini-series won't disappoint. Knowledge about Invincible isn't necessary to enjoy this story, but it may pique your interest. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Superman #693 (World Against Superman #13) (DC) * * * *

This is the most satisfying issue of Superman or Action Comics in the last few issues. As the cover indicates, this issue fills in the story about what happened to Mon-El when he was taken down by Gen. Lane's agents. It is a dark and sinister story of a character who was captured by the enemy and what he endures. This story ties into the time immediately after Brainiac and Luthor escaped Gen. Lane several issues ago. The issue ends with the Guardian and the rest of the Metropolis Science Police facing the latest threat to the city.

Superman: Secret Origins #2 (of 6) (DC) * * * * *

As much as I've enjoyed Superman: World Of New Krypton, Secret Origins has quickly become my favorite comic book series of 2009. This issue combines elements of the original Superboy meeting the Legion stories combined with the early 1990's special issue Lex Luthor: The Unauthorized Biography. We see the beginnings of Superboy's career, which is not as smooth as the silver age indicated. We are introduced to Chief Parker, who appeared in old Legion stories when they traveled back in time to Smallville. As the cover indicates this issue presents an updated introduction of Superboy to the Legion, complete with the location of their original headquarters. It also introduces us to the origin of another familiar member of Superman's, or Superboy's supporting cast. This mini-series is a perfect example of the best Geoff Johns story, taking familiar elements of past continuity and weaving them together to form a new tapestry that will be revealed in future issues and rekindling enthusiasm for the Superman world of comic books.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, November 4, 2009:

Superman: World Of New Krypton #9 (of 12) (World Against Superman #14) * * *

As enthused as I have been with this mini-series, this was the first one that did not move the plot along at a cosmic pace. It wrapped up one conflict and set up the next one. It finished the conflict between the Kryptonian forces and Jemm of Saturn. He has some history with Kal-El as Superman, but I am not that familiar with this character. His past with Superman was an advantage in resolving the conflict, although I won't say how it is wrapped up. There are seeds of discontent of some New Krypton citizens who were allies of Kal-El. The issue ends with the introduction of another classic DC character who has a grudge against New Krypton. The line seems to extend around the block at this point. The ending does pique my interest for the next issue and seems to hint of big things to come. So even though the issue wasn't as action packed as previous issues I am still excited about this series, and what is to come for Superman in 2010.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.

Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com/. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com/. Send e-mail about this podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #74: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, October 21, 2009!

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, October 14, 2009:

Action Comics #882 (The Hunt For Reactron part III / World Against Superman #11) (DC Comics)
Adventure Comics #3/506 (DC Comics)

Action Comics #882 (The Hunt For Reactron part III / World Against Superman #11) (DC Comics) * * * *

General Lane's machinations continue with Reactron and Squad K in their hunt for Supergirl, Nightwing and Flamebird. Lois meets with Chris and Lana while Thara and Kara try to mend their friendship. Reactron and Squd K set their trap for the three Kryptonians. This was a more satisfying issue than recent ones have been. The infighting between Supergirl and Falmebird has ended as they refocus their efforts to finding Reactron. The action and character development was more satisfying.

Adventure Comics #3/506 (DC Comics)

It's embarrassing to admit but I can't find the issue and I don't remeber reading it, so I must have missed picking it up at Acme Comics (http://acme-superstore.com/). It will have to wait until I go there next time.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, October 21, 2009:

Graveyard Fairies: Candy Caper #1 (of 1) (Half Moose Media) * * * * *

This comic book was written by Marc Hammond and painted by Denise Manara McCabe, with design and lettering done by Derrick Fish. Marc works at Acme Comics, Denise is a mural painter and Derrick has his own web comic Dandy And Company http://dandyandcompany.com/. This comic book continues the story of a group of characters Marc and Denise created in the hardbound book Graveyard Fairies, available at Amazon.com. The previous book is not necessary to understand that characters or the story of the comic book. Candy Caper is about Max, who has the misfortune of becoming sick just before Halloween. The Graveyard Fairies, introduced at the beginning of the issue through a very nice poem, help out their friend by creating a Halloween costume that they will all operate together, so everyone will think there is a child inside. The main story happens when the fairies approach the last house of the neighborhood, which scares even the fairies. It is a very nice story with fantastic colorful art, suitable for all ages. It is simple enough for kids to understand and great characterization to involve adult readers. I don't know if issues are still available, but you can contact Acme Comics at http://acme-superstore.com/, or at http://graveyardfairies.com/.

Marc, Denise and Derrick also have their own facebook pages, so you can contact them there as well. If you live in the central Florida are and are looking for a mural artist, you can check out Denise's web site at http://www.denisetheartist.com/. You can also check out art for Derrick's upcoming comic book the Wellkeepers at http://www.thewellkeepers.com/. (They did not ask me to plug their work here, the decision was all mine.)

Supergirl #46 (The Hunt For Reactron: Conclusion / World Against Superman #12) * * * *

As the story title states, this is the conclusion of this storyline. the final battle was brutal, and the tide turned several times, but it was another satifsying issue. Not only was the battle with Reactron resolved but the relationship between Thara and Kara as well. Of course, the larger story of General Lane, as well as Lana's health. While this storyline isn't necessary to follow the entire World Against Superman storyline, it was its own satisfying story and did not read as an unnecessary tie-in. It also was a satisfying story on its own.

Invincible #67 (Preparations For War part II of II) (Image) * * * * *

This two-part story was a nice reunion for Invincible co-creators Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker. Nolan Grayson and Allen the Alien continue their quest to gather weapons to use against the weakend Viltrumite empire. This issue contains the usual mix of action, character and plot development. the leader of the Coalition of Planets has a surprise of his own for Nolan. I have yet to read a disappointing issue of this title. Kirkman is not afraid to take risks with his characters, which is why he is one of the best comic book writers today.

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Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com/. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com/. Send e-mail about this podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

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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Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com/ . The expanded show notes blog can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspotcom/ . Send e-mail about this podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com .

Issue #72: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, September 23, 2009!

Work and a new project I'm orking on has crowded my time so I have fallen behind on this blog. I'm spending my Saturday morning, October 17, 2009, trying to catch up on my blogs. So let's get to it.

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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