SWAMP THING WINTER SPECIAL DC COMICS
I heartily applaud both DC Comics and Marvel(?!) for this book. While called a Swamp Thing Special, this is much more than that. This is a true tribute to writer Len Wein and artist Bernie Wrightson whom we both lost just recently. Both stories show the complex character that these two men created. And the heart-felt remembrances of Editor Rebecca Taylor is truly touching. One of the most fitting items in the book is the creative breakdown of a commission piece of art featuring Len at his desk with creations Swamp Thing and Wolverine penciled by Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez, inked by Joe Prado, and colored by Mark Chiarello. Commissioned by Dan Didioand gifted to Len’s wife, Christine. Which also serves as a reminder that when it’s for a good cause, competing comic companies can work wonders when they work together. I give it a 10 out of 10 Grahams!
AVENGERS #679 MARVEL COMICS
I keep hoping that this storyline will get better but it doesn’t seem like I’m going to get that lucky. After the Torch’s apparent death last issue (Spoiler: he didn’t!) all fighting stops as the players in the game regroup and wait for the next challenge. And we get another character retconned into the Marvel Universe. This time a lost Elder of the Universe with direct ties to the Grandmaster. While a tad bit interesting, it’s not enough and this ultimate crossover seems to keep stalling out. I give it a 5 out of 10 Grahams.
GREEN LANTERNS #40 DC COMICS
While not the biggest fan of easier of the current Green Lanterns, Tim Seeley’s storyline has caught my interest. From the general premise that there is a dating app for Super-Heroes to the introduction of several tertiary characters is truly fascinating. And definitely keep your eyes open for various cameos from the DC Universe. I give it an 8 out of 10 Grahams.
INCOGNEGRO RENAISSANCE #1 BERGER BOOKS
One of those rare independent books that flies just under your radar. Mat Johnson’ s story is a wonderful reflection of the times. The characters are interesting and the murder does peak one’s interest. And the amazingly detailed art all rendered in shades of grey really adds to the books charm. Something outside the usual that is definitely worth checking out. I give it a 9 out of 10 Grahams.
TWISTED ROMANCE #1 IMAGE COMICS
Twisted. Definitely twisted. Alex De Campi, Katie Skelly, Magen Cubed, Sarah Horrocks throw us readers into a whirlwind of romance gone wrong but not in the usual ways. Entralling yet fundamentally off center, the stories entertain yet make one feel a bit woozy. Definitely worth reading for those exact reasons. I give it an 8 out of 10 Grahams.
YOUNG MONSTERS IN LOVE #1 DC COMICS
A total weirdie that begs to be read! It’s the month of love and the “monsters” of the DC Universe are out to show us what romance is all about. The Deadman tale brought a tear to my eye and the Solomon Grundy/Superman story was worth the price of admission. 80 Pages, Multiple Creative Teams, and the subject of love! See what DC Comics can really do when they let their people do what they do best. I give it a 9 out of 10 Grahams.
MOTHER PANIC/BATMAN #1 DC COMICS/YOUNG ANIMAL
Given the opportunity to play in the DC Universe, the boys and girls of the Young Animal imprint have made the most of the opportunity without losing any of their weird vibe. Thanks to the retconning by Retcon, Batman has becoming Father Bruce and his brainwashed army of young Robins is both funny and creepy at the same time. Mother Panic’s involvement gives us a chance to see her flex her muscles and the priest that crashes through Bruce Wayne’s window instead of a bat is truly inspired. The master plan continues but gives nothing away. I give it an 8 out of 10 Grahams.