Robyn Hood - Wanted #3 - Review

Nei Ruffino

Robyn Hood - Wanted #3

Writer:
Pat Shand

Art:
Larry Watts

The story so far...

Using magic that Marion has harnessed from blessed crystals, Will Scarlet arrives on Earth just in time to break Robyn free from police custody. But Will's absence has left Nottingham vulnerable, allowing Guy of Gisbourne to lead the Dark Horde on a rampage through the city. Gisbourne captures Marion, taking her back to the mysterious Sheriff of Nottingham. Back on Earth, before Robyn can agree to come back to Myst with Will, she is pulled into a portal by Avella, Gisbourne's hired assassin.

What can you expect from this issue?

Franchesco

Straight up you can expect some great fight scenes between Robyn and Avella. Shand's writing carries you through the intensity of the fight scenes well. I really like what Shand has created in Avella, the assassin. She is without a doubt the most outstanding character and I think at times throughout this issue outshines Robyn. Without giving too much away, Avella experiences a few on the job frustrations (don't we all) and disappears for a while. I suspect she will be back though. I hope so, she is the only character I am finding interesting at the moment with this issue.

We may have been introduced to the beginnings of a romance between Robyn and Will as Robyn examines her conscience and her past experiences (good and bad). Whilst this is not such a bad thing, I hope it does not lead to a distraction in the overall direction of this series. I think it is fair to say that we all want Robyn to dispense justice on Gisbourne and this little Prince John, however I think we will be waiting a little while longer given how this issue has ended. There is serious trouble ahead for Robyn if she finds herself captured by Gisbourne....no spoilers here, but the cliffhanger ending to this issue will have you wondering and asking yourself 'what the hell is going on here?'

Jamie Tyndall

What did I like about this issue?

There is a seamless continuity to this series which is something I prefer when reading comic books. I read so many titles that I am grateful when I am given a taste of where things left off in the last issue (my memory fails me as I get older). Shand does this well, without it taking up precious art panels. Shand demonstrates his skill in storytelling by keeping you engaged between the two opposing forces throughout this story. This is really important. What keeps you engaged is that constant back and forth of good versus evil with neither gaining he upper hand...well at least not in this issue. So well done Shand, great storytelling and like many other readers I am head over heels for this Robyn Hood.

I think the story is a little let down by the art work. Watts is a solid comic book artist and knows how to tell a story through illustration, but I just struggled with the way Will and Gisbourne were drawn in some of the panels. I think Watts did well to ensure the characters expressed the right emotion to carry the story, and his female characters are drawn really well. Gisbourne comes off a bit too cheesy and/or cocky, when the right look should have been one of cunning and deceit. That said, Watts sets up the panels nicely and has created a well illustrated issue.

The Covers

Just a quick comment about the covers for this series. I have been amazed at the different interpretations that have been given by artists of this new Robyn Hood character. Each month readers are spoilt for choice as to which cover they take home. This is brilliant work Zenescope, keep it up. This blog entry features images by three of my favourite artists - Tyndall, Franchesco and Ruffino. 

Franchesco

What did others think about this issue?

I could only find one reviewer that I thought gave this issue considered thought...

Unleash The Fanboy Review

So what do I give this issue?

Grade: B+

This is a good issue and I will continue to read this series because the storytelling and the art is engaging and you can't help but love this interpretation of Robyn Hood. That said, this is not an 'A' grade issue, but it is close.

Enjoy!

Lazarus #2 - Review

Lazarus #2

Writer:
Greg Rucka

Art:
Michael Lark


What does Image tell as about this comic so far...

Following an attack on Carlyle holdings by the Family Morray, Forever's father Malcolm, the Carlyle Patriarch, has summoned his children to the family estate outside Seattle. The question? Shall Carlyle go to war with Morray?

What can you expect from this issue?

A story so strong on character development that you are drawn into it absolutely. The story is extremely well paced for my liking even though the story as this stage moves a bit slow. This is not a bad thing when you have a talented writer like Rucka telling the story though. As you will recount from issue #1 that I reviewed a little while back, we are reading about the potential up and coming conflict between the Carlyle and Morray families. Out of this issue you will develop a strong sense of the pressures faced by the Carlyle family as they must strategise to retain influence as one of the top families in this new world order.

While the struggles of the Carlyle family give you a good introduction to this family and their relationship with the family patriarch Malcolm, the Lazarus of this family 'Forever' is struggling with her conscience as well as with her sense of duty and mission. She knows she must protect her family's interest and do her father's bidding, but her inner voice does not believe her family's interests should be protected at any cost. That said, she does not make this feeling known out of her sense of duty. She has a strong relationship with her father, a real sense of trust exists between them, even to the exclusion of others (enough said about that...no spoilers here).

What did I think about this issue?

It is brilliantly crafted. The writing flows seamlessly through the issue and the art work has strong dark lines. Some have described this series as a well crafted soap opera and I would have to agree with them. This is a captivating series and is a demonstration that even though you might be dealing with a typical dystopian apocalyptic world (typical of many other stories like it), you are drawn into it based on the quality of the writing and art work combined. A genuine example of how comic books with mature stories can be a truly rewarding read. Lazarus is one of the best comic books on the shelf at the moment as far as these types of stories go. This is a dark world and Lark does well to create that sense affluence for the Carlyle family, but at the same time succeeds in his illustrations showing a real sense of hopelessness and desolation for those humans considered worthless in this new world. 

You are drawn to consider how economic theory plays out in this story and its impact on society. The extremes of capitalism are present in this amazing tale but you still are not entirely certain how everything works just yet. Clearly modern teaching on capitalism tends toward wealth, technology, property etc. being available to the few, while the rest of the world lives in whatever conditions are permitted through limited opportunity. These concepts are at the heart of this world created by Rucka and Lark and it is a story that is totally captivating.


What did others think of this issue?

Comicosity has a few good things to say...

Comicosity Review

Comic Vine is without doubt one of the best sites to seek out reviews, here is what they had to say...


Comic Vine Review

IGN gives you a brief but great run down of the characters...

IGN Review

What do I give this issue?

Grade: A

Looking forward to the next issue.

Wonder Woman #22 - Review

Wonder Woman #22

'The Calm'

Writer:
Brian Azzarello

Art:
Cliff Chiang

What can you expect from this issue?

In this issue you will be introduced to the world of New Genesis. This is Orion's home and the home of his father the Highfather,  king and ruler of this high-tech people. He is somewhat critical of his son's judgement and abilities and this father/son tension continues throughout most of this issue. Remember that Wonder Woman got a pretty hard beat-down in issue #21 and Orion has brought her to New Genesis to heal. This issue is aptly named 'The Calm'. Wonder Woman and her cohort are really re-grouping in this issue for what you will come to see will be a major showdown with the First Born. This issue is less about Wonder Woman and more about Orion. I think this is a good thing because Orion as a character up until this issue has not been well developed. He is such a pivotal character to this story that an Orion-based issue had to be on the cards for Wonder Woman fans. Later in the issue Wonder Woman finds herself back in a post-apocalyptic London after leaving New Genesis. One of the faithful have fallen in this issue...no spoilers here! The God of War appears to remain an ally of Wonder Woman which is the highlight of this issue for me.


What did I think of this issue?

The pace of this issue is somewhat slower, but I really got a sense of who Orion is and how keen he is to share Wonder Woman's mission to protect Zeke (Zola's baby). What I mean to say is that character development takes top priority over action scenes. This is good thing when Azzarello is steering the ship. Predictably, Orion's attitude (as can be seen in previous issues) has a lot to do with his relationship with his father. I like that I am more in touch with his character now. I never really like issues of Wonder Woman where she takes a bit of a back seat to the events going on around her, but I knew it was only going to be temporary. 

I was delighted to see Cliff Chiang behind all the art in this issue. His simple line-work and angular style is what makes Chiang's art distinctive. His personal style of illustration makes him an expert storyteller alongside Azzarello as writer. Queen Hera (the beautiful Goddess this blog is named after) is very present in this issue. Her presence for me softens the group of fighters/survivors that Wonder Woman has around her. Hera provides this amazing contrast between the grouping of allies Wonder Woman has. I hope for great things for Queen Hera in future issues. Apart from Wonder Woman, she has to be my favourite character in this series. Queen Hera has fallen from a great height but even in this issue remains majestic and I hope an ally to Wonder Woman's cause...but we will see in future issues I suppose.


What did others think of this issue?

If you know something about comic books you know that everyone loves this new series of Wonder Woman. Its contrast from previous series is stark and remains a high quality reinvention of this character. Most reviewers recognise this, and this can be read in their reviews...

Unleash The Fanboy Review 

The Pop Cultist Review 

There are many more reviewers you can seek out to get a better feel for how great this issue and series is. I encourage you to check out what others have to say.

I am reading a lot of great titles right now, but this is my favourite superhero title right now. Nothing else comes close to this new series of Wonder Woman in both storytelling and art work.

So what do I give this issue?

Grade: A+

The Highfather and Queen Hera

Welcome to New Genesis! Wonder Woman makes her first visit to Orion’s homeworld and comes face to face with the Highfather...and sees the strange hold he has over his uncontrollable son! - See more at: http://www.dccomics.com/comics/wonder-woman-2011/wonder-woman-22#sthash.QRuEgqTH.dpuf

Welcome to New Genesis! Wonder Woman makes her first visit to Orion’s homeworld and comes face to face with the Highfather...and sees the strange hold he has over his uncontrollable son! - See more at: http://www.dccomics.com/comics/wonder-woman-2011/wonder-woman-22#sthash.QRuEgqTH.dpuf

Sheltered #1 - A Pre-Apocalyptic Tale - Review

Sheltered #1 'A Pre-Apocalyptic Tale'

Writer:
Ed Brisson

Artist:
Johnnie Christmas

What Image Comics has to say about Sheltered #1...

A pre-apocalyptic tale of survival at any cost. The men and women of Safe Haven have been preparing for any-and-all end of world scenarios for years. However, their bunkers, weapons and training can’t save them from the one threat they never could have expected: Their own children.

What can you expect from this issue?

A well written comic book that moves at a steady and rewarding pace. This story is unlike many tales of impending disaster, it centres on the preparation and planning that takes place prior to a zombie apocalypse, a nuclear holocaust etc. From this perspective Brisson and Christmas take you into the mindset of the adults trying to prepare for an event that will change life as they know it. Safe Haven (aptly named) is a community of families working together to figure out the best way to survive what is about to come. Of course the interesting twist comes at the end of this issue, and happens in the most unexpected way. All I will say is that the children of Safe Haven have other plans it seems.

What did I think of this issue?

I really like the pace and the sense of isolation that sets the mood for this comic book. Immediately, I felt this title was going to be a little different from the moment I started reading it. Brisson and Christmas really do quite well to present the different attitudes people are likely to have to an impending apocalyptic event. Of course the intensity heats up as soon as a gun-shot rings out from within the woods. The adults of Safe Haven are quick to act. They are acting against an enemy they did not expect. And that is where you are drawn into the story and of course future issues. I can't wait for issue #2.

This comic book series is one for the collection because it is taking a very different angle on a theme that has been done to death; this story is extremely engaging. I mean it is brilliant, thought-provoking and emotive at times. This issue is well thought out and that comes out in both the writing and illustration. The heavy contrasts in the art work is always appropriate to the unfolding circumstances. The art work is gritty, with heavy lines at times, but it perfectly suited to the story being told. There are few comic book issues that invite you to re-examine the story after you have read it to ensure there wasn't something you missed. I found myself re-reading the issue for clues. Few comic books inspire me to do that. 

I totally recommend this title and hope that future issues continue to reveal interesting and engaging story developments.

What did others think of this issue?

Other reviewers are giving this issue top marks, and so do I. This is one title you should start to collect now. I have not reviewed the title 'Revival' for my readers yet but I will. I put this comic book up there with that amazing title also.

This is what Comic Vine had to say...

Comic Vine Review 

Comic Bastards never get it wrong, that's why I have included their thoughts in my blog...

Comic Bastards Review 

The simple truth is this, Image Comics have been putting out some brilliant publications of late. I am really engaging with the stories they are backing. Sheltered is showing signs of being an award winning comic.

So what do I give it?

Grade: A

Sheltered #1 is amazing.

Enjoy.

Dawn - The Swordmaster's Daughter & Other Stories - Review

Dawn - The Swordmaster's Daughter & Other Stories (One-Shot)

Writer and Artist:
Joseph Michael Linsner

What do I need to know about Dawn?

It has been years since I have picked up Joseph Michael Linsner's (JML) work on Dawn. I understand that this is the first comic book he has written in the last 3 years. To understand Dawn properly you really need to read three graphic novels; Lucifer's Halo, Return of the Goddess and Three Tiers. In a nut-shell what you will come to learn is that Dawn is a Goddess, the Goddess of birth and rebirth. She is intimately connected to the Horned God, the God of Death. The God of Death has taken human form and his name is Darrian Ashoka.

Before I share my thoughts about this one-shot issue, I'll just make a few comments about this character for new readers. Dawn is a complex character, surrounded by imagery that has particular meaning. For instance, the red rose she wears represents Hell. She has three distinctive tears streaming from her left eye, the meaning of which is explained in more detail in earlier graphic novels. With JML's distinct style of drawing, Dawn is highly recognisable in the world of comic books. There is no mistaking her on sight.

I first started reading Dawn when I started getting back into comics and graphic novels some 8 years ago. She was a hard character to start with and I wasn't sure if JML's style of illustration would grow on me, but once I tried my hand at interpreting this character and the larger story she was a part of, I couldn't get enough. Dawn is JML's signature character and over time you come to learn that this character has a deeper personal meaning to JML. This for me gives Dawn substance and meaning.

Dawn also represented for me the extremes of the 'bad girl art' period of the late eighties and nineties, which I was curious about. Another example of this is Brian Pulido's Lady Death. It was comic book art that pushed the boundaries a bit when it came to drawing tough female comic book characters, and that appealed to me.

So what can you expect from this One-Shot issue?

Three short stories; The Swordmaster's Daughter, Samsara and The White Phoenix all in one issue. The first page appears to be an interpretive piece for readers. JML does this for his readers which I think is amazing. Before this story starts you are introduced to a piece of work that makes you think about Dawn present state of mind. She is drawn in this black dress embossed with skulls. She is surrounded by imagery that that makes you wonder whether all is well in an existence between heaven and hell.

Taken from a Samurai folktale, the Swordmaster's Daughter incorporates Dawn and Darrian into this story. Darrian becomes this excellent warrior ever influenced by Dawn's presence and affection. JML's characters are drawn with expressions that make this fantasy tale better than most fantasy tales where storytelling plays second fiddle to drawings focused on hot women yielding heavy weapons and armour. There is great storytelling here that you will enjoy.

Samsara and The White Phoenix are really short stories requiring interpretation that I feel is only possible with a strong understanding of the characters. Whilst this is a great treat for long-time Dawn fans like myself, new readers may find these two short fables harder to follow simple because they are very short. My tip for readers is to study JML's art work.

I simply can't get enough of JML's Dawn and I am excited to see that Dawn will be returning later this year in another one-shot black & white issue titled Sinful Suzi. Then in 2014, JML will be releasing a new Dawn series for us titled Always Darkest. I am really looking forward to more of his work. JML is quite the storyteller in both his writing, and his skill as an artist.

I have included some additional art work featured on the Internet that I could find that illustrates my point about JML's illustrations of Dawn as interpretive pieces.  

What did others think of this issue?

There is only one decent review I could find by Comic Bastards that is quite fair in its opinions...

Comic Bastards Review

So what do I give this issue?


Grade: B+ 

I think this is a great start to JML's return after three years and I look forward to seeing more this year and next year. JML fans would do well to add this issue to their collection. Enjoy.

Fairest #17 - Review

Fairest #17

Writer:
Sean E Williams

Pencils:
Stephen Sadowski

Cover:
Adam Hughes

Part Three of 'The Return of the Maharaja'

To recap where we ended at Part Two of this story arc, the Maharaja and Nalayani are forced into the desert by a pack of Dhole and in their hast find themselves far from their camp. To make matters worse, the beautiful Nalayani stumbles across quicksand and finds herself sinking fast...of course that is where issue #16 ends.

So what can you expect?

A story with great consistency and pace. Nothing about this series so far seems rushed or poorly thought through. The first page will have you chuckling at the dialogue between Buldeo and Nathoo. They both show different levels of concern for the missing Maharaja, but what is revealed in this issue is that each know this new Maharaja in different ways. This detail is important and is sort of the point of the entire issue. This Maharaja may not be who he seems.

One of the camp residents (one of the Maharaja's army of women) has contracted some kind of mysterious infection which I will leave you comic book geeks to read about further. Needless to say, much of this aspect of the story remains a mystery.

The feel of this issue takes me back to the Fables series by Willingham. This series is a great demonstration of creativity which can still remain connected to it original roots, the original Fables series, which is a great success even to this day.

The art work by Sadowski is thoughtful of the characters and above all consistent. The art conveys the right level of intensity when it comes to the well being of the Maharaja and Nalayani. What I am trying to say without spoiling everything is that the art work is pretty good when you consider the events of the Maharaja taking on the massive crocodile. It is a sound demonstration of Sadowski's skills.

The point to this issue is revealed once Nalayani and the Maharaja flee the mean crocodile (who talks to them...in the same passive tone as the helpful fox from an earlier issue in this series. It was unexpected, but not uncharacteristic of a Fables-like issue). This issue focuses on the origins of the Maharaja's rise to his position. It is very humorous and in keeping with the type of character this Maharaja is.

What did I think?

Well you have probably guessed by now that I liked this issue and I am really enjoying this series. The pace of this series and this issue are in keeping with what I believe comic readers need in order to be able to take in the story as well as appreciate the great illustration.

The writing by Williams really conveys the values and attitudes of the characters well (whether you like them or not). You grow to like the Maharaja because of his adventure for life (at least I have). As for Nalayani, you come to admire her sense of selflessness throughout this series and this issue. I can't help but think all this will be tested in future issues. I guess we will see.

I look forward every month to Adam Hughes' contribution to the Fairest title with his amazing covers. There have been some real stand-out brilliant covers, and one or two covers I have felt look a bit rushed, but on the whole they are hugely creative. Hughes must take the concepts dealt with in each issue and really think about how he wants to present the issue according to his interpretation of the characters and the story. I know that sounds similar to what all cover artists should do, but what Hughes is creating really stands out for me. The cover pictured above is exceptional, hair that becomes the mean crocodile, henna tattoo on the hands and arm of the pictured woman (who I am guessing is a representation of Nalayani). Either way, it is brilliant and to my thinking Fairest remains one of DC Vertigo's best titles right now.

Every month I take time to read and absorb this title. If you are into comics for mature readers this has to be on your monthly 'buy-list'.

What did others think?

Comics The Gathering has a view that is similar to mine but makes some different observations about the energy levels of this issue...

Comics The Gathering

Nguyen writing for Weekly Comic Book Review is a little more scathing of this issue, but I trust this reviewers judgement. But like all reviewers, it is just their opinion, take it as you will...

Weekly Comic Book Review 

What do I give it?

Well firstly, I'm changing my grading system, and like in school a comic book can score A through to F.

Grade: B+

Enjoy!

n Part 3 of “The Return of the Maharaja,” Nalayani and the Maharaja face a lethal enemy while trapped in the Village of the Dead, and the expedition to rescue Nalayani’s village faces an even deadlier curse that sabotages their attempts to search for their leader (whose mysterious past is finally revealed)! - See more at: http://www.vertigocomics.com/comics/fairest-2012/fairest-17#sthash.DPrnZ1Ft.dpuf

In Part 3 of “The Return of the Maharaja,” Nalayani and the Maharaja face a lethal enemy while trapped in the Village of the Dead, and the expedition to rescue Nalayani’s village faces an even deadlier curse that sabotages their attempts to search for their leader (whose mysterious past is finally revealed)! - See more at: http://www.vertigocomics.com/comics/fairest-2012/fairest-17#sthash.DPrnZ1Ft.dpuf

In Part 3 of “The Return of the Maharaja,” Nalayani and the Maharaja face a lethal enemy while trapped in the Village of the Dead, and the expedition to rescue Nalayani’s village faces an even deadlier curse that sabotages their attempts to search for their leader (whose mysterious past is finally revealed)! - See more at: http://www.vertigocomics.com/comics/fairest-2012/fairest-17#sthash.DPrnZ1Ft.dpuf

Uber #3 - Review

Uber #3

Publication Date:
June 2013

Writer:
Kieron Gillen

Pencils:
Caanan White

According to Avatar and Kieron Gillen:

1945. On the edge of defeat, Nazi Germany unleashes a force of enhanced humans capable of annihilating armies at a glance. The siege of Berlin is broken. However, a British spy in the development camps managed to escape her pursuers with the secret of the Ubers. Now both the hunter and the hunted report to their superiors...

What can you expect from this issue?

An intense storyline (indicative of Gillen's great writing) and some Avatar-style gruesome imagery. But let's start with the story. This issue focuses on the aftermath of Agent Stephanie's actions in the development camps. What are the development camps? I hear you say. Well in a truly cruel, yet not uncharacteristic Nazi Germany, the development camps were camps established for the purpose of medical experiments. In this case, medical experiments to create 'super' soldiers (hence the title). Agent Stephanie (a British spy) who was an active spy in the development camps has now extracted herself with some precious cargo.

Agent Stephanie now must inform Prime Minister Churchill of her success. On the German side of things is poor General Sankt who must inform Adolf Hitler personally that the Super soldiers initiative has gone 'tits up', which will no doubt get a reaction. I'll let you comic book geeks see this in person when you get your copy of this issue.

So what did I think?

Well, the writing is really imaginative and Gillen does well to distinguish this comic title from the many different types of war comics that have been created. Whilst the story is set amongst the devastation brought to Berlin in the last days of the Third Reich, the story is a bit of a science-fiction tale too. Superhuman soldiers genetically bred makes for a good and unpredictable twist. I am totally riveted by a story that sees Nazi Germany turn things around in the last days of the war. But Britain has figured it all out now and might respond in kind. You can see that this comic is a labour of love for Gillen.

White provides us comic book geeks with great art. In the style that I am used to with Avatar, the strong contrasts in the artwork is ever-present. Heavy shadows and dark broad lines gives the reader the impression that this story is gritty and confronting at times. White appears to have struggled a bit with his illustration of Churchill, but absolutely blitzes it when it comes to his drawings of Adolf Hitler. White interprets Agent Stephanie well giving her serious facial expressions when appropriate but she is remorseful for her part in the war effort, and this is communicated well by White.

What did others think of this issue?

Well none of my normal sources for comic book reviews has posted anything...you'll just have to take my word for it folks.

What do I give it?

7 out of 10. I love the story, the art is harsh at times but suits the type of comic book Uber is. I can't wait to read #4 next month.

Enjoy.
 

Oz #1 - The Calm Before The Storm - Review

J Scott Campbell

Oz #1 (of 6) - The Calm Before The Storm

Publication Date:
July 2013

Writer:
Joe Brusha

Pencils:
Rolando Di Sessa








Zenescope's introduction to Oz...

Together, the realms of power face a gathering storm that threatens to drown them all in darkness. Their only hope to stop it lies with an unlikely hero, a seemingly simple Kansas farm girl who dreams of a life of adventure. Unbeknownst to Dorothy, highborn blood flows through her veins and with it...the power to save Earth and the four realms...But Dorothy must learn to use her unharnessed power before the witches of Oz destroy her along with everyone else that stands in their way.

What's in this issue?

Artgerm

The dark illustration had me drawn in straight away. It's the middle of the night and a cloaked man with his dog (that looks more like a wolf) flee from one of the wicked witches of Oz. The dog carries something of importance to the wicked witch...this is not revealed in this issue.

A rather hot looking Dorothy (thank you Di Sessa) adopts the wild dog and names him Toto (cool right?). The witch turns up to Dorothy's farm demanding the dog back only to be refused. The story gets more interesting from there and so does the art work. The illustration of the dark witch is also pretty hot. This is a Zenescope title after all. I expect nothing less and nor do Zenescope's fans.

What can I expect from this issue?

A really well paced and engaging story by Brusha. I have been reading a lot of comics right now where so much content has been packed into a single issue that you just fall short of really enjoying the story. More content is not always better when it comes to comic books. The amount of content/story in this issue is perfect.

Ale Garza

The illustration by Di Sessa goes from dark to whimsical to serious and back again throughout the issue. You get a real sense that the story is playing out on two different realms. The art work makes this clear in the way the characters are dressed in each of the realms they appear in. This is mostly the case for the wicked witch and her bodyguards.

Facial expressions are perfect when it came to the wicked witch. I think Dorothy's facial expressions in some of the art panels seemed a bit off. Dorothy's expression seemed a bit 'washed out' or 'tired' at times when she needed to look concerned or inquisitive.

What made me laugh was that the wild or untamed Munchkins appear to use Australian slang which I am not sure is something I should be offended about as an Australian comic book geek, or whether this is simply Brusha's attempt at humour. If it is his attempt at humour I love it. I had a good laugh and so will you.

Eric Basaldua and Nei Ruffino

 
This title is up there for me with 'Robyn Hood' and the 'Wonderland' series of Zenescope titles. Oz is a quality comic with an interesting story to tell that is not just a sexy re-tell of the Wizard of Oz story. There are twists and turns to come and this is obvious from the very first issue.

The covers are worth a mention because they are brilliant. Some of the best artists have been assembled to kick off the first issue of this title. Artists like the amazing J Scott Campbell, Eric Basaldua, Ale Garza and of course the brilliant ArtGerm. Each cover is pictured as part of this review. Just check out how amazing they are.

So what do I give it?

9.5 out of 10.

Enjoy. 

Mercy Sparx #1 - Under New Management - Review

Mercy Sparx - #1 - Volume 2

Publication Date:
June 2013

Written and Created by:
Josh Blaylock

Art by:
Matt Merhoff

Previously in Mercy Sparx (according to DDE and Arcana):

'After a year doing the bidding of Heaven, being given orders by a mysterious demon known only as Mr Suit, Mercy learned that she wasn't working for heaven at all. Rather, she'd been duped into hunting rogue angels by, ironically, another rogue angel. This massively powerful being had plans to achieve the dark triumphs that has eluded Lucifer, only to be foiled by a strategic alliance of Mercy, her ingenious buddy Hank, and Mr Suit. Once the dust settled, heaven threw in a twist, deciding that in fact they liked having someone on earth in Mercy's capacity. And thus being Chapter Two of her life on earth: Under New Management.'

So what can you expect?

Oddly enough I have never read an issue of Mercy Sparx but I have always been tempted to give it a go. Of course when a new volume of Mercy Sparx starting at issue #1 hit shelves last week, I knew now was the time to give it a go.

Whilst it was a rather long issue it was very humorous and really gave you a sense of who Mercy is. You can't help but like this character. The opening panels are a bit of a gift for the new reader (like me) who needs some context into the character before delving too much into Mercy's next chapter. Then as the issue progresses we bounce around a bit, not just in time, but in different realms of existence. That said, it is not confusing to follow, the reader is able to see the influences over Mercy's life and direction in this new series easily enough.

Mercy is a bit of an adventurous bad-ass and you see this in action in the first half of the issue. She has a job to do and she is committed. But she doesn't act alone, she confides in an odd character named Hank who throughout this issue is followed by a priest with an interest in him (or perhaps his association with Mercy). We don't know that for sure just yet...but lets back up a bit...

Mercy must deliver a message to Colopatiron, but he has made a terrible error which places them both in a difficult position. All the while the council of angels oversees her ongoing mission on earth (including oversight by the Archangel Michael).

So what did I think?

I really enjoyed Merhoff's artwork. I think he does well to visually represent a first issue that is heavy on content. His interpretation of Archangel Michael and heaven's council is pretty spectacular and it keeps you engaged in the story. The writing is good too and flows nicely. Blaylock manages to keep you following his story without too much effort, which at times goes off on tangents that I hope become relevant in later issues.

This is a good comic book. I am one of those comic book readers that would love to get into Mercy Sparx, but it is just not my type of comic book. If heaven and hell type of comic books are your thing, you will love Mercy Sparx.

What did others think of this issue?

Comic Booked had this to say (a new reader like me):

Comic Booked Review 

That's all I could find as far as reviews go fellow comic book geeks.

So what do I give it?

8 out of 10. A great balance between good art and well developed story as the issue progresses.

Enjoy.

 



 

Wonderland - Down the Rabbit Hole #2 - Review

Wonderland - Down the Rabbit Hole #2

Publication Date:
June 2013

Writer:
Raven Gregory and Pat Shand

Art:
Gregbo Watson and Yusuf Idris

The story so far according so Zenescope...(Contains spoilers unless you have read previous issues)

After experiencing progressively intense and gruesome visions, Alice Liddle visits a psychiatrist to increase her dosage of medication. While Alice struggles to hold onto her sanity, she doesn't see her family ripping apart the seams around her. To make matters worse, Alice finds herself being manipulated by a ghastly childlike version of herself that no one else can see. Unable to quiet the voices in her head, Alice attempts suicide...just as her daughter walks into the room.

What can you expect from this issue?

In the spirit of Zenescope's Wonderland, you can expect a thrilling story as you enter Alice's world of torment. The pace of the story is ideal. A great combination of dialogue and narrative means you can't escape what Alice is going through. Gregory and Shand keep the reader on their toes with a lot of writing in this issue, but that said, I have found this series easier to read than some of the other Wonderland mini-series. Even though we are given a great story about Alice, we are taken on the beginnings of the journey that Calie and Johnny will eventually endure. Gregory and Shand have set this up well giving the reader great context to the Return to Wonderland series which is a must read for all Zenescope fans...after all, that is where it all started.

Illustration and colour have made this series a visual feast. Importantly, the art keeps you constantly connected to the story as a whole as well as to the individual members of Alice's family. Watson and Idris achieve this by providing the reader with drawings of the characters from multiple perspectives. The real success in the art work is how emotion is communicated to the reader. Some of the panel art display on this review demonstrate this.

I tend to be critical of art work where the facial expressions of the characters are not consistent with the story being told. I did feel that while the art for the most-part was brilliant, some facial expressions seem rushed and can tarnish the page. There are a few examples where this happens in this issue.




What did others think of this issue?

I think Unleash the Fanboy made a fair assessment of this issue...

Unleash the Fanboy Review


So what do I give it?

Easily 8 out of 10. I think the art at certain points lets this issue down. That said, it is a great read and a must-own for Zenescope fans.

C.