JUSTICE LEAGUE ANNUAL #1 (2022) DC COMICS
Well, there can be no doubt that Brian Michael Bendis knows his classic Justice League story layouts. This annual reads like something from the classic era of JLA. A complicated and dire threat that can only be fixed by splitting up into multiple teams and defeating secondary menaces. Only to come together for the big conclusion at the end. This is a story straight from the old school DC manual of story telling. And while, I am not a huge fan of Sanford Greene’s artwork, he does manage to handle the large cast in battle scenes. With a terrific take on an old villain and a guest appearance by OMAC, this one contains enough easter eggs to inspire readers. The unfortunate part is that it appears that the only reason this story was green lighted was to act as an intro to the ‘Next Big Thing’ event when the Justice League will meet the Legion of Super-Heroes. I give it a 7 out of 10 Grahams. A good story told for the wrong reasons.
RISE OF DRACULA #2 SOURCE POINT PRESS
Rich Davis’s story continues to intrigue the reader as we delve deeper into a world taken over by sophisticated vampires. This is not your typical vampire book. War, famine, etc. have been basicly wiped out. Filled with philosophical questions, humor, and political intrigue, this title also spotlights Puis Calzada’s artwork which seems to add to the darkness of the book. However, Alex Zief’s colors really know how to spotlight a burning skeleton. Definately worth taking a look at. I give it a 7 out of 10 Grahams.
DRACULINA #1 DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT
Honestly, I didn’t have much hope for this one. A spin-off title from the currently version of Vampirella? I haven’t been a fan since the original Warren black & white magazines and then do the usual and give us 42 different covers to chose from makes this presentation all the worst. But Chrisopher Priest’s story while still keeping a connection to the Vampirella comic, takes us down a different road., And that road is rather interesting. We get to meet River East, a wealthy socialite, 13 Year old Katie, and the cursed candle that has influenced their lives. With some amazing art from Michael STA. Maria (the details on the city backrounds are awe-inspiring), this one is worth checking out. I give it a 9 out of 10 Grahams.
