Comic Reviews 10/28/11

REVIEWS

The comics reviewed are chosen by David not by That's Entertainment management
or staff. The opinions expressed are his alone. If you have an opposing view you
are welcome to respond to David directly by Email at the address above.


Title: PALE DRAGON
Issue Number: 1
Publisher: ComiXpress, Inc.
Creator: Michael McMenemy
Story: Bully or Bullied. Which Would You Be?
Price (USD): $3.50
Release Date: Now On Sale
Genre: Science Fiction/Martial Arts

Those of you who attended the event at the store last week got a chance to get
to know more about this creator and his work than I do. I picked this up to see
what it is all about. I am not sure if black and white comics still are a tough
sell in today's market. At $3.50 some folks can't get past the desire to see it
all in full color. I have never had that problem. Michael's style is very
accomplished. He has sharp detail in the foreground images with good use of
shading while the background images tend to be less defined - drawing your
attention to where he wants it. Macu is the main character, an earthling in an
alien city working at a restaurant run by two other earthlings Shino and her
uncle Irfan. Many of the aliens in this city dislike earthlings making Macu, a
thin and pale person, a target for their bulling. Even Shino has dubbed him "The
Pale Dragon" behind his back. Irfan is more compassionate challenging Shino to
decide if he will continue to take the ridicule of others. While the story takes
it time getting there the answer comes very dramatically ending the issue with
some unanswered questions. I like the way McMenemy structured the story with
some things that first seem irrelevant coming to play later. His style grew on
me and takes some interesting diversions along the way. It is a fine first
effort.

Title: COLD WAR
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: Part 1
Title Arc: The Damocles Contract
Publisher: IDW
Creator: John Byrne
Writer/Artist: John Byrne
Colors: Ronda Pattison
Letters: Neil Uyetake
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Spy Thriller

John Byrne has taken a new subject for his latest work. This is a story about a
spy named Michael Swann on Her Majesty's Secret Service and it is set in the
Cold War era. He takes an interesting approach to start the story. The first
eleven pages have no dialogue or editorial text at all. The story is entirely
visual showing Swann on a mission in East Berlin. He accomplishes his goal and
then has to dash for freedom in several pages that include costume changes,
acrobatics and a car chase to the border checkpoint. It is the set up for the
reason he resigned. The real story picks up two years later as Swann picks up an
assignment to investigate the possible upcoming defection to the Soviets of a
British missile scientist. His cover is that of an addition to the security team
at the base. His subject is Rupert Kemp and by coincidence Swann has an
encounter with Kemp's daughter. The way this story is styled like a James Bond
novel you can bet Swann will be seeing more of her in the future. Actually it is
entertaining but ends too quickly. The first half is almost all action while the
second half takes its time methodically introducing the characters and setting
up a bit of a cliffhanger for next time. Byrne's art is very recognizable so
there are no surprises there and Pattison's coloring compliments it well. I
think I am going to enjoy this one.


Title: ALL STAR WESTERN
Issue Number: 1
Publisher: DC
Writers: Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray
Artist: Moritat
Colors: Gabriel Bautista
Letters: Rob Leigh
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Western

I have enjoyed Palmiotti and Gray's take on Jonah Hex in the past and I did not
expect any departure from the norm in this NEW 52 title. What is different is
the setting is Gotham City in the 1880s. The story is narrated by Doctor Amadeus
Arkham who has been called in by Detective Lofton of the Gotham PD to aid in the
investigation of a series of brutal murders of prostitutes by someone they have
dubbed the Gotham Butcher. Chief Cromwell has serious objections to this,
regarding Arkham as a quack. When he sees Lofton has also called in famed bounty
hunter Jonah Hex he really gets upset. He makes it clear their connection to the
police investigation will be confidential and Lofton's job will be on the line
if it results in bad publicity for the GPD. One curious aspect of each crime
scene is that the word fear is painted in blood there but each time in a
different language. The Doctor and Hex make an odd couple with Hex speaking
plainly and picking up on obvious clues while the Doctor gives a more clinical
explanation with added conjectures. The only clue they get from talking to the
working ladies is that the latest victim was seen getting into a coach with a
large man who was wearing a silver ring in the shape of a skull. When the next
victim turns up the bloody inscription has changed - warning Hex to leave town.
Part of the book has Arkham at home writing notes making an analysis of Hex -
his character and what may have lead him to be the way he is. It is a very
interesting interlude. But the zinger is when the two attend a charity event
with all the affluent men of Gotham attending, including Alan Wayne and Mayor
Cobblepot. It is there that they come to the realization that things are going
to get a lot more dangerous for the two reluctant partners. This is a wonderful
tale with an excellent script and very good artwork. To call it just a western
tale is not accurate because it is a clever mystery as well. This title could
have a long run if the quality remains on this level.

Title: KEY OF Z
Issue Number: 1 (of 4)
Title Story: Subway Seriez
Publisher: Boom! Studios
Writers: Claudio Sanchez & Chondra Echert
Artist: Aaron Kuder
Colors: Charlie Kirchoff
Letters: Johnny Lowe
Cover Artist: Nathan Fox
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Zombie
MATURE READERS - Comics on the Edge

After the zombie apocalypse New York City two separate rival fiefdoms arose,
each with their own stronghold. Yankee Lavoe leads the people in Yankee Stadium
and Jackson Met and his survivors are holding Citi Field, former home field of
the Mets. It is spring of 2012 and we get a look at yet another group lead by a
far less power hungry leader helping survivors in Madison Square Garden. However
people are organized it is still a game of survival with zombies roaming the
streets. The Mets and Yankees have plans for gradually expanding and taking back
the city. We move forward to the summer of 2016. One of those working for Lavoe
is a young accountant named Eddie Alvarez. He has been charged with inventorying
supplies but when a shortage of foragers happens the boss Lavoe has no qualms
sending him out into the city for three days to bring back whatever of value he
can collect. He sees it as a test for Eddie to prove he is worth being in the
inner circle. Fortunately for Eddie he meets a loner who saves his life, Ewing.
Ewing is the real protagonist of the story. He lost his family to the plague and
now he is on his own to exact whatever revenge he can. As the two begin to
travel together Ewing decides to help Eddie on his mission - just before things
get really bad. I like the idea that survivors could band together and secure
large structures to keep back the undead. Logistically I am not sure how they
could manage to keep everyone fed for months or years but that is the premise we
are given. The art is very appealing with good realistic detail and coloring. So
far there is more stress on the people themselves rather than conflicts with
zombies. But the ending promises an interesting development in that regard. This
is a solid first issue.

Title: SERGIO ARAGONES FUNNIES
Issue Number: 4
Publisher: Bongo Entertainment
Creator: Sergio Aragones
Colors: Tom Luth, Nathan Hamill & Nathan Kane
Letters: Karen Bates
Price (USD): $3.50
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Humor

I hadn't looked at this comic yet and with the series up to number four I felt I
had to check it out. I have been a fan of Sergio's' having discovered him as
many did in the pages of MAD MAGAZINE. In later years I got a big kick out of
GROO THE WANDERER and other comics he did with writer Mark Evanier. In this
self-titled book he does the writing and art with assists on coloring and
lettering. There are plenty of the goofy gag one-page cartoons he is famous for
right up to the back cover - another trademark of his work. I would go so far as
to say that the little gags used for these are the most enjoyable part of the
book. Whether it is a garage mechanic distracted by a lady leading to a disaster
a snake charmer that brings the wrong basket to his usual spot where he
entertains tourists Sergio shows his mastery of humor in both subject and
execution in black and white. I thought the longer colored segments would be
longer humor stories but found that is not always the case. The first one is
entitled "The Wooden Son." It is a different take on the Pinocchio story. In
fact he claims it tells the tale of how Carlo Collopi listened to a story of a
bunch of villagers who tried to play a trick on an eccentric puppet maker by
substituting an orphan boy for his puppet he prayed would be turned into a real
boy. When it turned out they were happy together they did not have the heart to
tell him of their deed. But the story goes even further. It is a fascinating
story, especially if it is true. The other color segment is called "Los Titeres"
which is Spanish for marionettes. It is an autobiographical piece telling of
Sergio's life-long fascination with marionettes from early days to present. He
has a large collection from all over the world and everywhere he goes he seeks
out puppet shows. He winds up the segment with the story of how he and his
friends made their own marionette theater with the help of their parents and put
on shows for family and friends. It is a fun thing to read as it captures some
of the idealism of youth. While I was never into puppets like this I can think
of similar things I would get involved in with friends as kids. This may not be
appreciated by everyone who only pick up the title looking for cover to cover
laughs, which is the only flaw I see in this comic. I look it as a one man show
with a little bit of this and that thrown in as he see fit. He even has a couple
of visual puzzles for you to solve and a letters page with a couple of the
contributions coming from well-known celebrities from comics and television. I
hope it keeps up for a long time.

Title: STAR TREK/LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES
Issue Number: 1
Publisher: IDW
Creator: Star Trek created by Gene Roddenberry
Writer: Chris Roberson
Artist: Jeffrey Moy
Inker: Philip Moy
Colors: Romulo Fajardo, Jr.
Letters: Robbie Robbins
Cover Artist: Phil Jimenez
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Science Fiction/Super Hero


Hearing this project was coming out and being a fan of both series I knew I
would be getting this title. I was more than curious as to how the writer would
bring together the cast of the original Star Trek series with the original
version of the Legion. Of course time travel would have to be involved and that
is not a problem for the Legion of Super-Heroes. The Star Trek cast is all the
original members - the seven major players. For the Legion there is Cosmic Boy,
Lightning Lad, Saturn Girl, Chameleon Boy and Shadow Lass. But the story begins
with neither group. In a clever use of the opening monologue we are used to from
ST-TOS we think we are going to see Kirk and company first but what we see is a
different 23rd century in a parallel universe where Star Fleet is a conquering
force. Captain Tomorrow leads the battle group on their latest conquest - the
planet Durlan. In this battle their version of Shadow Lass is leading a group of
Talokians to subdue the shape-shifters. The heart of the Imperial Empire in this
universe is the planet Earth. We only get a glimpse of how this version may have
evolved into the starting place for a galactic empire. The gist of this first
issue is getting Kirk and his crew as well as the Legion to this Earth in the
23rd century. For the Enterprise crew it happens as the captain and his
officers, less Scotty, are beaming down to Earth for the graduation of the
latest class at Starfleet Academy. In the Legion's case they are heading home
through the time stream when they get caught in a vortex that forces them to
make an emergency landing. Yes, both groups end up in different places on this
alternate Earth. A crowd soon gathers and seeing a Durlan among the Legion they
react violently. The Enterprise crew has somehow beamed into a restricted area
and is soon set upon by Imperial forces declaring they are subject to immediate
execution. Both teams are in a tight spot and have not yet met each other. It is
a good set up for what is to come. There is more detail through the issue.
Roberson takes time to show us the characters interacting to give us the feel of
where we are in their perspective histories. The art is superb. The Moys' have
captured the likeness of the TV characters exactly and the Legion members
likenesses harkens back to the very start of their run in Adventure Comics. True
fans will get a big kick out this one. Everyone else will also enjoy a well-
crafted comic series.


***** TRIVIA CONTEST!!!! WIN REAL PRIZES!!!!!

If you think you know the answer to the trivia question send your guess via
Email to me at ComicBkNet@aol.com and you could win the prize. The first six
correct answers will be assigned a number and a roll of the dice will determine
the winner. You should put your real name in your message so we know who you
are. Prizes must be claimed at our store within 30 days of winning. The prize
will be a $10 credit slip, which will be redeemable for merchandise at regular
retail or in-store ongoing specials only. Only one prize per person will be
allowed per every 4 weeks. I will be the sole judge of the correct answer even
if more than one answer could be correct. Submit only one answer per Email
please but guess as often as you like.

Last week's trivia question: What special link is there between the Flash and Lex Luthor?
In this case there is a TV link. Michael Rosenbaum played Lex in "Smallville",
and did the voice of the Flash for the Justice League cartoons. The winner by
the dice roll is Jim Woodruff.

Here was your no prize question: What is the oldest fireworks brand in America?
Once again David McBarron wins the no prize for being the first to know the
answer is Black Cat.

THIS WEEK'S TRIVIA QUESTION: First words of a character - could be a tough one. Who said this in his comic book debut: "Say, who WERE the Masters of the Universe, anyway? And what were the secrets of Castle Greyskull?"

Here is your no prize question: Which is the oldest car manufacturer still making cars in the US?

Folks, you never know who among the readers is knowledgeable about the question
so don't hesitate to send in an answer - even days after it appears.

Comic Reviews 10/21/11

The comics reviewed are chosen by David not by That's Entertainment management
or staff. The opinions expressed are his alone. If you have an opposing view you
are welcome to respond to David directly by Email at the address above.


Title: SUPERBOY
Issue Number: 1 (second printing)
Title Story: The Clone
Publisher: DC
Writer: Scott Lobdell
Artist: R.B. Silva
Inker: Rob Lean
Colors: The Hories
Letters: Carlos Mangual
Cover Artist: Eric Conete with Guy Major
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero


Carrying forward the idea that Superboy is a clone this title gives him another
origin. They never really come out and say whom the human contributor to his
genes is though there are hints in one speech by the female scientist now in
charge dismissing that it might be a "deeply pathological, meglomaniacal
narcissist." Hmm. We almost find out when Superboy suddenly comes to life as it
appears to the technicians and the man about to blurt the truth to Caitlin is
unfortunately killed in an accident. A couple of the supporting characters are
interesting to me. The aforementioned female scientist is a red head named
Caitlin - could it be "that" Caitlin from GEN-13? And another woman she works
with is Rose Wilson! The organization is known as N.O.W.H.E.R.E. that created
Superboy and are keeping him in isolation immersed in a virtual reality to try
to learn the secrets of his background. Caitlin can't understand why he dreams
of growing up in a small town in Kansas - heh, heh. I am not familiar with this
organization but I believe it has connections with Teen Titans though I have not
been following that title for a long time. Unknown to the powers that be there
is a mole in the organization that is communicating to someone on the outside -
someone with connections to a certain general. The most interesting part of the
story so far has been Superboy's thoughts - seeing what is happening from his
point of view. He knows he is a prisoner and has not fully realized his
potential. He is learning and observing - biding his time. The opportunity may
be coming as the issue closes and indeed there is a tie to Teen Titans in the
offing. It was an entertaining first issue. I enjoyed the fresh start without
the Conner Kent baggage from past continuity. The art is very good though it is
odd to see a bald Superboy in the first sequence. I think I will stick with this
one for a while to see where it goes.

Title: BLUE BEETLE
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: Metamorphosis
Publisher: DC
Writer: Tony Bedard
Artist: IG Guara
Inker: Ruy Jose
Colors: Pete Pantazis
Letters: Rob Leigh
Cover Artist: Tyler Kirkham, Sal Regla & Nate Eyring
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero


Catching up with another first issue of one of the New 52 I wondered how much if
anything they changed about the Jaime version of Blue Beetle. The look is pretty
much the same. The issue actually begins with a prologue that shows where the
Blue Beetle scarab came from initially and how it got to Earth. There is a race
of beings that conquer worlds through the use of these scarabs. One inhabitant
is chosen and once the scarab attaches to it that being becomes the destroyer of
that world losing his own identity and becoming one with the scarab and its
power. He decimates the military resistance until the world can be cocooned for
the Hivemasters to savor at their leisure. Next we follow one such scarab sent
out through hyperspace to find its way to our solar system. After an encounter
with the then Green Lantern it crashes to Earth in Central America long ago. Did
the encounter with GL alter it enough so that it will not be a threat when it
eventually takes on a host? That question may be answered by the end of the
book. For now we flash forward to El Paso, Texas where the fated host is in the
local high school Jamie is a friend with Paco and Brenda so it seems the major
players are here again. Brenda's rich aunt is the mysterious rich relative that
seems to have a lot of strong arm help around. She is really after the scarab as
an artifact of fame - not knowing what it really is. Through a happenstance
Jamie and Paco collide with her super powered operatives trying to obtain the
scarab for her from some other heavy-duty super bad guys. The result is we get
to see the transformation for the first time - in this version. All the
groundwork is laid with a little more forward info in this version than we had
in the last. The dialogue is smooth and the action moves right along. The art is
impressive as well. It may not be as big a hit as the other new titles but it is
interesting right from the start.

Title: THE LAST OF THE GREATS
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: The Deal
Publisher: Image
Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov
Artist: Brent Peeples
Inker: Matthew Waite
Colors: Mirka Andolfo with Benny Fuentes
Letters: Troy Peteri
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Villain



Quite often I am pleasantly surprised by a new Image comic I picked up just to
give some variety to my reading and reviewing lineup. With this title it was
even more of a delight. The premise is about alien visitors to the planet the
people have come to call the Great. In August of 1991 seven structures rose from
the ground - one on each of the continents. After observing and absorbing the
native cultures the vistors crafted bodies to make themselves appealing to the
humans - even leave them in awe. That is the effect they had when they emerged
from their structures. They did good. They cured cancer, settled ancient wars,
built great cities even new capitals for each continent - things humans with
their failings could never do. But when they demanded that they wanted
centralized control of all Earth's weapons the people became afraid. One by one
the Greats ended up dead. Now the Earth is faced with an invasion of millions of
ships. The human sponsors of the six overt Great have found their way to the
seventh in recluse in Antarctica. He is their only hope for survival. But after
what they have done to his brothers and sisters it will be a strained
conversation. Actually this story is mainly about that conversation. Most of
what I have revealed is told in flashback to bring us up to date as the humans
meet the Last of the Great for the first time. He is a most interesting
character who shows a range of emotions from compassion to contempt to anger as
he relates all the history of his kind and more to these humans. But what will
he do next? The ending is a real grabber and I am hooked. I only picked this
title for review purposes but I will be picking it up for the long run. It is
the kind of feeling I had when I read the first issue of IRREDEEMABLE. In this
case I think this title may have been overlooked and it will get some word of
mouth buzz. Buy it or order it and see what I mean.

Title: PILOT SEASON: CITY OF REFUGE
Issue Number: 1
Publisher: Image/Top Cow
Creator: Morgan Davis Foehl
Writer: Morgan Davis Foehl
Artist: Dennis Calero
Letters: Troy Peteri
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Science Fiction





This is another PILOT SEASON one-shot hoping to become a mini-series. The
setting is a city in a dystopian future. This enclosed city has just passed
eleven years without any violent crime. They are protected from without and
through electronic implants from violence from within. It is a city of refuge.
Yet even after eleven years there are some who still have to cope with those
they lost. So the subplot follows some people who meet in a support group.
Because this is a controlled city the population is also controlled. People who
wish to have children must submit to a selection process and hope to get picked
off the queue. The main character is a lieutenant in Security Operations.
Because they need to be able to handle any situation that may come up the people
in law enforcement get a special drug at the beginning of their shift that
neutralizes the implanted Secura chip for twelve hours. They alone know what it
is like to not be inhibited by the implant, at least while on duty. After many
years the population has begun to grow weary of some of the control on their
lives. They have come to doubt that there are no long-term side effects from the
implants. There are even (non-violent) demonstrations against the system. When a
man takes someone very important as a hostage Lieutenant Jackson can't help but
wonder if somehow a "dose" of what he takes for the job made it on the black
market. But that is not nearly as frightening as what he finds later that
evening. While a lot of this type of science fiction can be much the same this
one has more background and character interaction for a first issue. The basic
way such a society can work is if everyone follows the rules. This is about how
some people find ways to break the rules. The art is good enough, with the
coloring adding much to the basic pencils. It is above average, which explains
how it made it to be a Pilot Season contestant.

Title: THE UNEXPECTED
Issue Number: 1-SHOT
Publisher: DC/VERTIGO
Cover Artists: Rafael Grampa or Michael William Kaluta
Price (USD): $7.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Mystery/Horror/Science Fiction








This one-shot anthology has a splendid assortment of tales that all have the
"unexpected" theme either in plot or ending. It is one of the best anthologies
in content and execution I have seen in a long time. Unlike STRANGE TALES each
story is very readable and entertaining for any reader. Here is a quick run
down.

"The Great Karlini" by Dave Gibbons is the story of a magician escape artist who
learns that deception is harder to master than escape. He narrates his story
from his escape from the ghetto in WWII, to a fortuitous meeting on the ship to
America and a rise to fame as a celebrated escape artist. He meets his fate in
an unexpected fashion - at least for him.

"Dogs" by G. Willow Wilson and Robbi Rodriguez is a visually funny tale about
what would happen if the dogs had enough and rebelled against their masters.

"Look Alive" by Alex Grecian and Jill Thompson has a unique art style
appropriate for the subject. It is about a female zombie who manages to look
normal with makeup and careful difficult control over her walk. We see how well
that works for her.

"The Land" by Josh Dysart and Farel Dalrymple takes place in Texas. It is about
a Mexican ranch hand that finds the boss' son dead in the wood near a river.
Things turn badly for him and he knows he will be blamed for the death and so
must run. It has elements of real or made up lore and an unexpected ending.

"A Most Delicate Monster" by Jeffrey Rotter and Lelio Bonaccorso tells the story
of man tinkering with evolution by using fossil DNA to clone Neanderthals for
study. While they are contained they surprise the scientists in some ways. But
when is taken out for a field trip among civilized men there will be an even
bigger surprise.

"Family First" Mat Johnson and David Lapham is a post apocalyptic story with a
brother and sister surviving on what meat they can find. When someone approaches
from a distance their skill to hide and then attack unexpectedly will make the
difference to them and those they call "the family." The revelation at the end
is a kicker.

"Alone" by Joshua Hale Fialkov and Rashan Ekedal is by the writer of LAST OF THE
GREAT reviewed above. It is the story of a couple having relation problems when
she finds out he is chatting online with an old high school flame. He goes out
to run an errand for her and has a fatal accident. But the story does not end
there as he finds himself back at the house. It is a ghost story with a
different twist.

"Americana" by Brian Wood and Emily Carroll follows the life of a woman from the
age of six in 2012 to the age of 94 in 2100. It is another story of a seeming
end of the world. The men go off to the wars; five of them, while the girl and
her mom head off inland to start a new life where survival is easier. It is her
story as a daughter, then a mother and eventually a grandmother. It is a
satisfying story and nicely rendered.

"Blink.Le Prelude A La Mort" by Selwyn Hinds and Denys Cowan is a prelude to
another comic coming soon from Vertigo called VOODOO CHILD. It is about a female
in New Orleans and about the city and its culture. It is about voodoo and
supernatural beings from a link that goes back to the end of the Civil War. It
is not as self-contained as the other story though I like the art.

Title: THE SHADE
Issue Number: 1 (of 12)
Title Story: Birthday
Publisher: DC
Writer: James Robinson
Artist: Cully Hammer
Colors: Dave McCaig
Letters: Todd Klein
Cover Artist: Tony Harris - variant by Cully Hammer
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero



James Robinson returns to the sometimes hero sometimes villain from the STARMAN
series. This is not a NEW 52 but a 12-issue maxi-series. Robinson begins with
four major scenes. The first is a conversation between Shade and Mikaal, the
alien and current Starman who has settled in Opal city. At one point it drifts
to the possibility of lasting love among people of their profession. That of
course is a segue into the scene between Shade and his lover, Hope O'Dare. He
dismisses his current attitude to the fact it is October - the month of his
making. She insists he has changed and what he needs is an adventure. In a
completely unrelated scene a private detective is being chased by Belgian
assassins with enhanced powers from drugs and exo-suits. Why they are after him
and who sent them will be something Shade should be told. The final scene ends
in a shocker as another well-known assassin in the DC Universe surprises Shade
as he ponders Hope's suggestion as he walks alone at night. It is just the
beginning and Robinson has given us a mystery, bonding moments between friends
and lovers and a couple of intense action sequences. Cully Hammer does a great
job with his pencils and layouts and the coloring finishes it off nicely. So far
it is getting very interesting.

***** TRIVIA CONTEST!!!! WIN REAL PRIZES!!!!!

If you think you know the answer to the trivia question send your guess via
Email to me at ComicBkNet@aol.com and you could win the prize. The first six
correct answers will be assigned a number and a roll of the dice will determine
the winner. You should put your real name in your message so we know who you
are. Prizes must be claimed at our store within 30 days of winning. The prize
will be a $10 credit slip, which will be redeemable for merchandise at regular
retail or in-store ongoing specials only. Only one prize per person will be
allowed per every 4 weeks. I will be the sole judge of the correct answer even
if more than one answer could be correct. Submit only one answer per Email
please but guess as often as you like.

Last week's trivia question:
What do Captain Comet, Animal Man, and the Atomic Knights have in common?
They all debuted in the same title and had STRANGE ADVENTURES there.
The winner by the dice roll is Gary Katzoff.

Here was your no prize question:
In what country do New Year's Eve celebrants throw old dishes at the homes of their friends?
Denmark. Old dishes are saved throughout the year to throw at the front doors of
friends' homes on New Year's Eve. Danes save old dishes throughout the entire
year to carry out this odd holiday tradition. Many broken dishes show that you
have many friends. David McBarron wins the no prize plaque!

THIS WEEK'S TRIVIA QUESTION:
What special link is there between the Flash and Lex Luthor?

Here is your no prize question:
What is the oldest fireworks brand in America?

Folks, you never know who among the readers is knowledgeable about the question
so don't hesitate to send in an answer - even days after it appears.

Comic Reviews 10/14/11

REVIEWS

The comics reviewed are chosen by David not by That's Entertainment management
or staff. The opinions expressed are his alone. If you have an opposing view you
are welcome to respond to David directly by Email at the address above.


Title: PILOT SEASON: THE TEST
Issue Number: 1
Publisher: Image/Top Cow
Creators: Matt Hawkins & Joshua Hale Fialkov
Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov
Artist: Rashan Ekedal
Letters: Troy Peteri
Cover Artist: Bagus Hutomo
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Science Fiction/Mystery




Imagine waking up in a domed community and being told you were the hope of
mankind. Ten people have this experience as they hear an announcement that they
were chosen for genetic diversity and communal living. The Artificial Life
Support and Containment unit, or ALSAC, is designed to protect them from the
radiation and biological toxins that have "most likely" all but destroyed the
world. It is completely impenetrable. Would you question the veracity of it all?
Is it keeping the threats out or the people in - or both? This is the premise of
the first in the latest series of Pilot Season one-shots from Top Cow. The
readers will choose their favorite one shot to debut over the next few weeks and
that title will continue its story in a mini-series. The pre-recorded
information over loudspeakers and an interactive channel on the TVs is designed
to inform them of the situation outside and instruct them on action items they
need to accomplish. The dome will open when they have grown their numbers and
conditions are right to begin repopulating the world. At first they have no
memory and there are only six that have come out on the street to figure out
where they are. As they explore the discovery of a seventh is very disturbing
and one character has a revelation that seems to be a vision of the future. This
story is interesting to me. There is enough revelation to set the hook and
enough mystery to stimulate continued interest. The art is decent with distinct
characters and a real enough setting. You can either accept the stated
explanation as real or question if something else is going on. It is good
science fiction that has promise. I have enjoyed most of the Pilot Season titles
in the past and this one is no exception.

Title: SPIDER-ISLAND: HEROES FOR HIRE
Issue Number: 1-SHOT
Title Story: Hello, Hero, Are You For Hire?
Publisher: Marvel
Writers: Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning
Artist: Kyle Hotz
Inker: Bob Almond
Colors: Jay David Ramos & Veronica Gandini
Letters: Joe Caramagna
Cover Artist: David Yardin
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero


I haven't been following the whole Spider-Island event but I do read HEROES FOR
HIRE so I picked up this one to see how the characters tie in to the major
story. Heroes for Hire is a clandestine organization run by the former detective
Misty Knight - code named Control. She runs a group of heroes as mercenaries -
that is they get paid either for personal or charitable reasons to fight larger
criminal threats to New York. Paladin is the only permanent hire who seems to be
enamored with Misty. Other heroes that have been "hired" as needed include
Elektra, Spider-Man, Falcon, Gargoyle, Black Cat, Silver Sable and the Shroud.
To tie this into the Spider Island saga Mayor Jameson has asked Control to have
her team help quarantine the Spider problem to Manhattan and then help control
some hot spots. In the course of this chapter they run up against ordinary
citizens with Spider-Man powers as well as heroes and villains infected as well.
In a major battle they run up against transformed agents of A.I.M. and get help
from some of the Avengers. By the end Misty will have to deal with one of her
own people changing. Can the rest last much longer without being infected? While
this comic may not have major impact on the larger story it is an enjoyable read
for fans of HEROES FOR HIRE. The art team does a good job and the plot further
explores the relationship between Misty and Paladin that is sure to be continued
in the ongoing title. For those reasons it is a worthwhile comic to pick up. For
those just getting all the SPIDER-ISLAND tie-ins it adds to the scope of the
problem the city is facing.

Title: AVENGERS 1959
Issue Number: 1 (of 5)
Publisher: Marvel
Writer/Artist: Howard Chaykin
Colors: Jesus Aburtov
Letters: Jared K. Fletcher
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero






I was not all that interested in following the further exploits of Nick Fury and
the band of adventurers he assembled during WWII called the Avengers. They are
Bloodstone, Kraven the Hunter, Namora, Sabretooth, Silver Sable and Dominic
Fortune. But I am a sucker for first issues and with Howard Chaykin running the
show I decided to sample it. The story begins in New York in the fall of 1959.
The group is gathering to celebrate their collaboration and go their separate
ways. But in Latveria the Blonde Phantom, Louise Mason, is hunting down the Nazi
Dieter Skul. She is tasked with identifying and neutralizing war criminals and
uncover who or what is behind their resurgence. Scenes shift to Fury getting
attacked on the streets of New York by a paid assassin to a covert meeting in
Wakanda by a US State Department envoy that clearly has other motives. In the
96th Street Boat Basin the tryst between Namora and Kraven is interrupted by the
emergence of a submarine crushing their boat. All these instances have one thing
in common; the bad guys have the symbol of a skull on them somehow. The other
members have similar life-threatening experiences and the ending brings out a
new character that could be a new ally for Nick and his friends. Chaykin has
laid the groundwork for an involved plot that will unfold nicely going forward.
It seems an unlikely alliance of characters but it works in this story. One
online pundit has suggested the new character may be someone connected to
another group known as The Avengers - that remains to be seen. This is a solid
story with lots of action and mystery. It is worth it after all.

Title: HAWK & DOVE
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: First Strikes
Publisher: DC
Writer: Sterling Gates
Artist: Rob Liefeld
Colors: Matt Yackey
Letters: Dezi Sienty
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE (second printing)
Genre: Super Hero




If you missed any of the sold out first issues of the New 52 from DC the second
printings are making the shelves this month. I decided to look at a couple I
skipped the first time around. For the record, Rob Liefeld is not my favorite
artist, far from it. He has improved some over the years but his style does not
appeal to me and that is a personal thing. Hawk and Dove has gone through
changes over the years. Hawk, Hank Hall, is the avatar of War. He has enhanced
vision, agility, strength, body density and a healing factor. Dove, Dawn
Granger, is the avatar of peace. She has enhanced intelligence, compassion,
strength, flight and a danger sense. While they are partners in fighting various
bad guys Hank is always alluding to his dead brother, Don Hall the former Dove,
being a better partner. The scene begins in Washington on a plane the two have
taken over and discovered the payload was zombie-looking monsters. As they
resolve that situation with some difficulty a member of the Special Crimes Unit
of the DC Police approaches them. He reveals the man behind the army of men and
Zombies is Alexander Quirk a scientist with political motivations. Other parts
of the issue explore the strained relation between Hank and Dawn who were chosen
by the gods of war and peace to be given their special abilities if they work
together. Meanwhile Dawn is involved with Boston Brand, Deadman in his latest
incarnation. In a recap we see how Hank and his brother became the original Hawk
and Dove ending with Don's death during the worst "Crisis" man has faced. So we
see some past continuity has been preserved for this duo that have an uneasy
partnership, at least in Hank's point of view. Part of the reason is that Dawn
never told Hank why she was chosen or her experiences that lead up to the day
she showed up as the new Dove. With all that out of the way the plot will
continue on with the whole zombie army thing. This is clearly a background issue
to familiarize the new readers with the characters and their dynamic. It will
take a couple more issue to decide if it will be worth staying with for longer.
I really don't care for the big chip on Hank's shoulder and as I said the art is
not my cup of tea. You may feel differently.

Title: MEN OF WAR
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: Joseph Rock
Publisher: DC
Writer: Ivan Brandon
Artist: Tom Derenick
Colors: Matt Wilson
Letters: Rob Leigh
Cover Artist: Viktor Kalvachev
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE (second printing)
Genre: War



Another second print first issue I decided to look at proved to be more
enjoyable than I had thought it would. This is DC's war comic and as the title
suggests it will have more than one main character. It is a rare $4 comic for DC
but for that you get a larger comic with the addition of a second story. The
first features a new Sgt. Rock set in modern times rather than WWII. At the
start he is a corporal in the army. The script in this first installment serves
to show us the kind of character he is - one dedicated to fighting the good
fight and getting passed over for promotion due to several instances of
insubordination that also resulted in victory for him and his men. We learn this
as a general and a sergeant named Torisi are interviewing him. General Schiff
knew Joe Rock's grandfather, Frank Rock and has high regard for his service.
Clearly Joe is his own man and his anti-bureaucratic attitude does not bother
Sgt. Torisi who defends Rock and brings him on a new mission. The story shifts
to a secret mission to rescue a senator who disappeared while on a peace mission
and is believed to be held by insurgents. This serves to get us into the
battlefield and lots of action and a major turning point in Rock's career. There
is one element of the story that takes it out of the realm of a normal war story
and lands it into the DC Universe of super powered humans. There is someone out
there who seems to have Superman-like powers and is also secretly fighting the
bad guys. I say secretly because we only see him in shadow and flying too fast
to distinguish any features. I am guessing it is Apollo from the Stormwatch
comic but that is just a guess. I wasn't expecting this and it was really cool.
This looks like a better than average story that could get very interesting. It
alone is worth the price of the book. But there is more.

Back up story: "Navy Seals: Human Shields" - part 1 of 3
By Jonathan Vankin, Phil Winslade, Thomas Chu & Rob Leigh

As the titles suggest the heroes here are a group of Seals on a covert operation
in a field of operation that officially has no "boots on the ground." They have
just acquired a high value target, a major ammo dump, and called in an air
strike when it hits the fan. A sniper tags one of them and two members go after
the shooter once they get into the building. What they find when they get to the
sniper perch is not what you might expect. This story is shorter than the first
and spends some time introducing the characters and a bit of their background.
It wastes no time though getting into the action part and showing the tactics
used in their situation. It is a more straightforward soldier story with a twist
that will make the next chapter interesting. It is a good back up for a decent
comic.

Title: SEVERED
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: "Nothing Wasted"
Publisher: Image
Writers: Scott Snyder & Scott Tuft
Artist: Attila Futaki
Letters: Fonografiks
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE (second printing)
Genre: Horror





I believe this story is up to the third issue but I saw the second printing of
the first issue and decided there must be something to it to go back to print.
The story begins at a time when Elvis is just starting to create a stir with his
swinging hips. A grandfather is watching this on TV when his grandson comes in
with a note from a mysterious stranger claiming to be a friend of the
grandfather. This disturbs Jack as he begins thinking back about the secret
about his "severed" arm - a secret he has kept even from his wife. At this point
we go back to the beginning and follow two young boys on different paths. The
young Jack Garron is an accomplished violinist. He is living in Jamestown, NY
with his adoptive mother but has decided to secretly strike out into the world
seeking adventure riding the rails and playing for coins in cities across the
country. This action seems without major motivation at first, as his home life
is a loving one. We learn later why he made this decision and the kind of
hardship he will face right off the bat. It is 1916 and while war rages in
Europe Jack is about to see horror of a different kind. What shape that horror
may take is partially revealed in the story of the other boy about Jack's age.
He has been living at a home for boys in Matteson, Illinois until now. We look
in as a Mister Porter has arranged to have Frederick take on an apprenticeship
with General Electric. The nuns are thrilled that a bright boy such as Frederick
will have an opportunity to make them proud. Of course Mister Porter is not
entirely what he seems. We will see that he will fulfill the horror element of
this story. How and when he might meet Jack is for a later chapter. I really
enjoyed this first issue as it slowly built the two main plots. On one hand we
have a seemingly basic story of a runaway out to make a name for himself while
on the other what at first could be a bright future for another boy slowly turns
to a foreboding one. The art is excellent. It has the right shading and coloring
over detailed pencils to invoke the feel of the times a hundred years ago. It is
all well executed and better than most non-hero comics on the racks.


***** TRIVIA CONTEST!!!! WIN REAL PRIZES!!!!!

If you think you know the answer to the trivia question send your guess via
Email to me at ComicBkNet@aol.com and you could win the prize. The first six
correct answers will be assigned a number and a roll of the dice will determine
the winner. You should put your real name in your message so we know who you
are. Prizes must be claimed at our store within 30 days of winning. The prize
will be a $10 credit slip, which will be redeemable for merchandise at regular
retail or in-store ongoing specials only. Only one prize per person will be
allowed per every 4 weeks. I will be the sole judge of the correct answer even
if more than one answer could be correct. Submit only one answer per Email
please but guess as often as you like.

Last week's trivia question:
In which city can you find MONARCHS, GENERALS, MAMMOTHS and METEORS?
These are all sports teams in Metropolis. The winner by the dice roll is Mike
Dooley.

Here is your no prize question:
What was the first .COM domain name ever registered back in 1985?
I made a mistake in the date and have corrected it.
The first .com domain name that was ever registered was Symbolics.com, on the
15th of March 1985 by the now defunct Massachusetts-based computer manufacturer
Symbolics. Symbolics was founded by former employees of the MIT AI Lab and their
associates for the purpose of building Lisp machines (computers that ran the
Lisp programming language) and related software. Lisp machines were considered
the first commercially available computer workstations, though the word
"workstation" had yet to be coined at the time. David McBarron rightly
questioned the date and it was 1985 not 1965. He wins a special place in the no
prize hall of fame.

THIS WEEK'S TRIVIA QUESTION:
What do Captain Comet, Animal Man, and the Atomic Knights have in common?

No prize question
In what country do New Year's Eve celebrants throw old dishes at the homes of their friends?

Folks, you never know who among the readers is knowledgeable about the question
so don't hesitate to send in an answer - even days after it appears.

comic reviews 10/7/11

My View
David LeBlanc
ComicBkNet@aol.com

David LeBlanc was the Editor of the Comic Book Network Electronic Magazine for
over ten years. He is a life-long fan of comics and moderated online comic book
forums long before the Internet became the place to be. David works part-time at
That's Entertainment, the Eisner-winning comic store in Worcester, MA.


REVIEWS

The comics reviewed are chosen by David not by That's Entertainment management
or staff. The opinions expressed are his alone. If you have an opposing view you
are welcome to respond to David directly by Email at the address above.


Title: AQUAMAN
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: The Trench
Publisher: DC
Creator: Paul Norris
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ivan Reis
Inker: Joe Prado
Colors: Rod Reis
Letters: Nick J. Napolitano
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero


This is a refreshing new look at a character that has been maligned by fans and
the general public to some degree due to the nature of his powers. On this
fresh start Geoff Johns seizes on that history and uses it for comic relief. Not
that this is a very heavy plot to start with but it does involve a new threat
from the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean in the framing sequences that provides
tension, foreboding and horror to an otherwise straightforward super hero plot.
Locals will delight that the first appearance of Aquaman in the book is in
Boston where he was at the harbor and heard a police chase so he jumps in. The
sequence serves to show us this version of Aquaman is straight down to business
and highlights his strengths. The next is the fun part as he walks into a local
seafood restaurant near the shore to eat lunch. It is just a delightfully
written sequence with awe struck patrons gasping that he would order fish and
chips! The underlying tension in the conversations he has with an ambitious
blogger highlights the differences in culture and perception and the humor is
spot on. It alone is worth the price of the book. The third gets us more into
the relation between Arthur and Mera, his past through flashbacks and a major
decision he has made about their future. In case you hadn't noticed in the
promos he has both hands now and I hope it stays that way. The art is terrific
and the comic is already is getting a lot of buzz. I urge you to give it a try.
It is my pick of the week.

Title: SUPERMAN
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: What Price Tomorrow
Publisher: DC
Creator: Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster
Writer & Breakdowns: George Perez
Artist: Jesus Merino
Colors: Brian Buccellato
Letters: Carlos M. Mangual
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero


Unlike ACTION COMICS and JUSTICE LEAGUE this title follows the adventures of
Superman in the present time. There have been some changes to the character and
supporting cast in this new continuity. I guess the biggy is that Clark is no
longer married to Lois. In fact the subplot makes a big deal of Lois dating
another guy. Her life has changed quite a bit. She has just been made the
Executive Producer of the nightly news division at Planet Global Network and
Executive VP of New Media. It is now owned by Morgan Edge who offered Clark the
news anchor position along with his reporting job at the Planet but Clark turned
it down. There is some conflict between Clark and Lois about what kind of
organization Edge is running so he does not totally agree with her taking the
job. But they are not an item and she is dating another guy. At one point there
is a strong hint he has feelings for her. The scripting of all this background
information is weaved into the main story very well. It shows how well Lois does
her job, including handling the boss, when Superman goes into action against a
fiery menace attacking the city. Even Perry White has changed to a more buff man
with chiseled jaw - a new look for him. And the Daily Planet building is gone
replaced with a new skyscraper and modern globe on the top. It is the setting
for Morgan Edge's grand announcement about Lois' appointment at a gala
reception. But this is a book called SUPERMAN and we do have the action
sequences of him fighting a being apparently made of fire when he tries to stop
the heist of a chemical waste truck. Carrying the truck over the city to get the
thieves to surrender he is taken by surprise when it explodes. There is some
terrific action sequences as it goes from bad to worse and a hint that this is
an alien presence attacking for a specific reasons. Speaking of aliens,
continuity buffs will note the one page insert of another alien blowing a rather
large horn atop the Himalayas. This is the same horn mentioned and found in
STORMWATCH #1. We get to see who actually blew the horn, and that is about it.
Whether it has any connection to the menace in Metropolis remains to be seen. In
all I found this to be a solid first issue. It has lots of detail on all the
major characters and their new situations, some good action sequences and it is
all drawn and colored very nicely. It is a worthy addition to the top super hero
at DC.

Title: BLACKHAWKS
Issue Number: 1
Publisher: DC
Writer: Mike Costa
Layouts: Graham Nolan
Finishes & Cover: Ken Lashley
Colors: Guy Major
Letters: Rob Leigh
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Covert Ops/Science fiction




You will know right off the bat that this is not your father's Blackhawks. The
U.N. sanctioned team consists of Lady Blackhawk, The Irishman, Kundichi and
Attila with field support handled by Wildman. In this mission they have been
called in to intervene in a hostage situation at an airport in Kazakhstan. From
video surveillance they see a previously unknown group using vehicles and
weaponry prohibited by the Metapowers Act. They manage to get the job done with
lots of shooting and acrobatic skills but the covert nature of their team may
have been compromised. Also, the female Kunoichi received a wound that will
become a major plot point by the end. Later at the Eyrie we meet Andrew Lincoln,
the deputy of operations as he greets a UN Delegate who informs Lincoln of the
breach in their status that occurred on the mission. The subplot about
Kunoichi's wound takes center stage as we are shown a supermax meta-human
security facility in central Asia somewhere. It all involves microscopic
machines called nanocites. There we meet whom it was that sold the weaponry seen
before and the power of those nanocites. It has all the makings of a good
thriller with interesting antagonists and heroes that are very colorful. I
enjoyed it as a good action story and the art team does a good job bringing it
all to life. If you like these kinds of books without the spandex heroes this
one is for you.

Title: STAR TREK
Issue Number: 1
Title Story:
Publisher: IDW
Based on: Teleplay of "Where No Man Has Gone Before" by Samuel A. Peeples
Writer: Mike Johnson
Artist: Stephen Molnar
Colors: John Rauch
Letters: Neil Uyetake
Price (USD): $3.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Science Fiction


This is an interesting concept for a Star Trek comic book. It takes the
characters from the recent hit movie and puts them into stories told before in
the old original Star Trek TV show, hence the credits to the teleplay. While I
would not want to see the new continuity characters go through old plots in the
movie sequels I think it works well as comic book adaptations. The names are the
same but the faces are the new ones from the movie. The art team does a good job
capturing the likenesses of the actors from the movie and telling the story in a
dynamic fashion though I would like more inventive layouts. The story is one any
old school Trek fans will recognize. Gary Mitchell and Mr. Kelso are part of the
crew carrying out the exploring mission of the Enterprise at the edge of the
Galaxy. Spock detects the distress beacon from the SS Valiant as they approach
the edge. The partial recording hints of something about extra sensory
perception and the captain of the Valiant giving the order to self-destruct.
Only the beacon survived. As the Enterprise encounters the same barrier the
Valiant hit there is massive damage to the ship, nine crew are killed and
Mitchell is affected in an amazing way. While under observation he shows signs
of increased mental capabilities, reading everything at an increasing faster
pace and soon exhibits the beginnings of telekinesis and other psychic ability.
As the crew learns more from the recovered beacon they realize they are
following the same pattern as the Valiant. Kirk may have to decide to do
something about Gary Mitchell before it is too late. I like this because it
follows the basic plot of a familiar story with the new twist of slightly
different people in the major roles. It is playing out in roughly the same way
as Shatner, Nimoy and the others experienced but not exactly. As a fan I enjoyed
it very much. The plus is that new fans of Star Trek from the movie (are there
any?) will enjoy it as well. Thumbs up for this one.

Title: THE FURY OF FIRESTORM: THE NUCLEAR MEN
Issue Number: 1
Title Story: God Particle
Publisher: DC
Creator: Gerry Conway & Al Milgrom
Plotters: Ethan Van Sciver & Gail Simone
Writer: Gail Simone
Artist: Yildiray Cinar
Colors: Steve Buccelato
Letters: Travis Lanham
Cover Artist: Ethan Van Sciver with Hi-Fi
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero


The last Firestorm was the combination of Ronnie Raymond and Jason Rusch. In
this new Universe they are both Firestorm. In case you did not notice the title
is now THE NUCLEAR MEN. In this version Jason Rusch was entrusted with the last
vessel that would transform the right gene type to a Firestorm. As we see
through the first half there is a ruthless organization trying to track down
that last bottle that can activate a Firestorm being. Ronnie and Jason are not
friends. In fact as we reach a critical point in the plot Jason has written
uncomplimentary things about the star quarterback and Ronnie has come to
confront him about it. That is when it hits the fan and in order to save lives
Ronnie activates the process and to their surprise as Jason becomes Firestorm
Ronnie becomes one also - two separate Firestorm beings. And wait until you see
what happens when two Firestorms merge as one - they become Fury! It is a great
new way to spin the whole concept of the Nuclear Man who can transmute matter on
an atomic level. The characters are familiar but with a fresh start that makes
their relationship with each other different. The art is spectacular, especially
the final splash pages with the introduction of Fury. I anticipate that over
time Ronnie and Jason will learn to work together but for now it is adversarial
in nature. It is a classic struggle of brain over brawn. It is off to a bang of
a start.

Title: FLASH
Issue Number: #1
Publisher: DC
Writers: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Artist: Francis Manapul
Colors: Brian Buccellato
Letters: Sal Cipriano
Price (USD): $2.99
Release Date: NOW ON SALE
Genre: Super Hero

Barry Allen is back. And like Clark Kent there are changes in his life in the
new DC Universe. He is the police scientist who is secretly the Flash but he is
not married to Iris West. He is not even dating her. She will become interested
in him after there is an attempted robbery that the Flash foils. Unfortunately
one of the perpetrators is killed in the ensuing battle and Barry Allen and his
assistant Patty Spivot are tasked with seeing if the Flash is responsible. More
curious than that the victim turns out to be an old friend of Barry's. More
curious than that his dead friend Manuel shows up at the lab a few nights later.
And when Barry chases after him something even more curious happens. I like the
way this plot is slowly building to peak the reader's interest. The Iris West
sub plot is very minor right now. Maybe in this title they will eventually
become involved as they were in the old continuity - or maybe not. The art is a
unique style that has a nice quality though it takes time to get used to it. The
way Barry changes into his costume has a fresh take now. There is a sequence
where Flash is falling from a building down to the sewer below the street. It
takes up the whole page but has a good impact on the reader. I think the team is
a good one. The beginning story held my interest and left a hook at the end to
get me to want more. So far it is another solid restart for DC.


***** TRIVIA CONTEST!!!! WIN REAL PRIZES!!!!!

If you think you know the answer to the trivia question send your guess via
Email to me at ComicBkNet@aol.com and you could win the prize. The first six
correct answers will be assigned a number and a roll of the dice will determine
the winner. You should put your real name in your message so we know who you
are. Prizes must be claimed at our store within 30 days of winning. The prize
will be a $10 credit slip, which will be redeemable for merchandise at regular
retail or in-store ongoing specials only. Only one prize per person will be
allowed per every 4 weeks. I will be the sole judge of the correct answer even
if more than one answer could be correct. Submit only one answer per Email
please but guess as often as you like.

Last week's trivia question:
The Chief first gathered his team in what magazine?
THE DOOM PATROL was first formed in MY GREATEST ADVENTURE. The winner by the
dice roll is Stan Hosmer.

Here was your no prize question:
What is the world's biggest single structure made from living organisms?
The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from outer space and is the world's biggest
single structure made by living organisms. Our fearless leader, Paul Howley,
gets another plaque in the no prize hall of fame.
THIS WEEK'S TRIVIA QUESTION:
In which city can you find MONARCHS, GENERALS, MAMMOTHS and METEORS?

Here is your no prize question:
What was the first .COM domain name ever registered back in 1965?

Folks, you never know who among the readers is knowledgeable about the question
so don't hesitate to send in an answer - even days after it appears.