Comicbook Crossfire

Hulk vs. Wolverine... the Movie

2012-03-01T23:12:00.000-06:00

Mighty Muggs - Avengers

2012-03-01T18:48:00.000-06:00

Look what I stumbled across... I couldn't help it. I love these damn things. So cute! Makes you say AWWWW, ASSEMBLE!

I even recreated my favorite scene from the newest trailer!

The Superman movie "I WANT TO SEE".

2012-02-29T20:00:00.000-06:00

How cool would it be... everyone wants a "Death of Superman" movie. Me, I want a space adventure, as the Man of Steel fights the demons of a battlefield and a mental breakdown. Only to be subjected to arena warfare at the hands of a otherworldly tyrant. But our hero learns of an ancient Kryptonian weapon and a Rao religious leader who've lived for 1000 years and seemed fated by destiny to impact Kal-el's future. Superman in Exile... The "non-Superman" Superman movie I want to see!

We've done a podcast on this very subject... but I still feel like I only scratched the surface of why I love this story arc. In honor of the Leap Year/Superman Birthday, I wanted to embrace and celebrate why I love the character "Superman".

As stated here and in our podcast, this is the story that hooked me as a Superman fan and drug me into comic books. After the Annual from Action Comics #2 (Post Crisis), I found that I couldn't get enough. I needed to find out what happened. The execution of Zod and his partners. The trials of finding Gangbuster, the appearance of Milton Fine (Brainiac), Superman's Power's losing control, the pending army of Aliens forming to attack the earth. The Reveal that Gang Buster is Superman... All leading to Superman being Banished. A self imposed Exile!!!

If you'd like to read this story: Superman 21-33, Adventures of Superman 444-456, And Action Comics Annual #2 and regular issue # 643.

These issues defined Superman. As a Hero, and Icon and most importantly that he will not kill. In the most extreme situations, Superman will champion life. Even of his enemy. Like Dr. Who, Like other heroes... But this is Superman. Earth's Greatest hero. In an arena, fighting to uphold his beliefs and learn more about his lost planet.

Jim Lee's Earth 3 Designs... Revealed

2012-02-29T17:59:00.001-06:00

Look, what Sean's Investigative reporting discovered.

Way to scoop the Big web sites!

Tracie's Pull List - Week of February 29, 2012

2012-02-29T11:16:00.007-06:00

There is a new Avengers trailer on the internet RIGHT NOW and I'm not at a computer where I can watch it--which is really par for the course, as far as this week is going for me.

But let's not let that keep us down completely.

It's Superman's Birthday, after all!

The Justice League: Doom animated film was a really excellent little story with a very lovely tribute to witer Dwayne McDuffie. That film hit some emotional beats with Green Lantern that really surpised me (kudos to Nathan Fillion), and just some phenominal Superman and Flash scenes. There could really stand to be a Flash animated film. I know they feel they can't sell anything that doesn't say Superman, Batman, or Justice League (or, apparently Green Lantern, though if they still feel that way, I'm not sure) but come on. They could at least do some sort of Green Lantern/Flash team-up movie, playing off their friendship in the old Brave and the Bold comics. Though I'd like Flash to be a big enough selling point that they could do, like, a Terminal Velocity movie or something. Go back and mine the Mark Waid run for animated films. (or just give me an Impulse movie in the style of Humberto Ramos)

But these things will never happen.

What will happen are these comics arriving today:

ANGEL & FAITH #7

I keep saying it but this comic is a good comic. I would enjoy this comic even if I wasn't a huge Whedonite and fan of the show. I think jumping in fresh, you could still get a lot out of this book. Great characterization, cool action, slick art. It's good comics.

FF #15

POWER PACK, YOU GUYS. POWER PACK. That is all you need to know.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #6

The newly formed Justice League versus Darkseid! The conclusion of this opening "5 years ago" storyline, I think. Do we get the new SHAZAM back-up in this issue or next? I forget. (I want Shazam to be good)

MOON KNIGHT #10

I hope when Bendis leaves the Avengers books, he does more random stuff like this. Or at least brings back Spider-Woman or The Pulse.

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS VOL 2 #4 (OF 6)

I love Nick Spencer. That is all.

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #680

That dumb ol' John Jameson, always needing to be rescued by Spider-Man in space. Where are his space wolf god powers to protect him?

THE AVENGERS #23

Half the Avengers are battling HAMMER...

THE NEW AVENGERS #22

...the other half are battling the Dark Avengers. All-in-all, Norman Osborn is back to being a huge pain in their assemblage.

TINY TITANS #49

It's the... um... Squishy Titans!

ULTIMATE COMICS THE ULTIMATES #7

Hickman! It's... It's basically the movie Avengers, plus Falcon. (they should toooootally have Falcon)

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #8

The characters of Ultimate X return! Nick Spencer!

Alright, I'm done. Hopefully I can blow through these and get back to reading my Jason Aaron Ghost Rider Omnibus before next week's books come around...

Happy Birthday, Superman!!!

2012-02-28T21:00:00.000-06:00

For some, Superman's birthday is considered February 29th. This was established in the Silver Age when editor Julie Schwartz declared that Superman’s birthday was on Leap Day in a number of letter pages. Also it was reiterated in Superman Annual #11.

Officially, the character turns 74 this summer.

For me, traditionally I'd hit every local comic store in the area on this day. Alas this year, circumstances have prevented me from this. But I plan to watch the Justice League: Doom DVD movie and hitting a store or two on my way home. But, if you truly like what Superman represents and stands for... Do something honorable and decent. Help someone out. Hold a door for someone. Hide your road rage. Whatever. But in all honesty, try to be a better person, be a Superman. Happy Birthday Kal-el.

Rappers and The Multiverse... Debate Pt.2

2012-02-28T19:22:00.002-06:00

To see where this all started... Click here

Sean: Fuck if I know. Keeping up with rapper's arrest records is like keeping up with the multi-verse.

Monty: ANSWERed http://dcu.blog.dccomics.com/2012/02/28/earth-2-character-designs-robin/

Tracie: That is a darn fine Robin costume. I also wanted to point out, yesterday, that Sean got the Quote of the Day for "Keeping up with rapper's arrest records is like keeping up with the multi-verse."

Sean: Tracie is right, that costume is cool. Is it just me or is it literally half new/half retro? She's retro from the waist up and new school from the waist down.

Monty: Vagina's are new school?

Sean: Vaginas didn't exist before the silver-age.

Robb: We're talking comics... no one knows what a vagina is.

Earth 2 (CBXF debates)

2012-02-27T20:19:00.001-06:00

It all started with a an email from Tracie to the gang... Earth 2 and Batman... and this link: http://ifanboy.com/articles/who-is-the-batman-of-earth-2/

Tracie: Is the New 52: Earth-2 actually the Flashpoint earth???

Tracie: The Free Comic Book Day book that Geoff Johns is doing with Jim Lee, Gene Ha, and Kenneth Rocafort is supposed to focus on Pandora (the woman in purple) and feature scenes taking place in the old DC, Vertigo, and Wildstorm earths. This could all play into each other.

Monty: So is the Huntress Bruce's sister?

Tracie: Dead Bruce's alive sister? Maybe. The tease they've been giving the Earth-2 Batman is that he's "a" Wayne, not necessarily Bruce.

The original Huntress was Earth-2 Bruce Wayne's daughter, via Catwoman. And there was some heavy hinting in the New 52 Huntress series regarding cats. (and being very consious never to give her last name... unless it gets revealed in the last issue)

Sean: What Wayne could it be?

Robb: John Wayne.

Tracie: Lil' Wayne
I don't want to spoil Flashpoint anymore than I already have, if you haven't read it. If that's, in fact, what Earth-2 is.

Sean: So what are the chances of it being Thomas?

Robb: Nope, John Wayne.

Sean: I know it can't be 'lil Wayne. He's still in jail.

Tracie: I thought Lil' Wayne was released. Or did he get arrested again and I just lost track?

A Movie for Monty!

2012-02-27T12:00:00.000-06:00

Since recently we did a podcast on my first and favorite Superman story arch... I thought I'd throw together a poster of the Captain America Story Arc that made Monty a die-hard Captain Fan. (My presumption)

Imagine a movie where Steve Rogers was stripped of his mantle and a Punisher like soldier took over as the Violent American Icon. Monty... My Present to you!

The Best Superhero movies ever...

2012-02-26T17:39:00.002-06:00

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is having their annual awards show tonight so I thought I would give you a Quick top 10 of what I believe to be the best Superhero movies of all time.
Oh, I should state that this list is infallible and that any attempt to argue them is invalid.

10. Darkman

Liam Neeson, can fight droids, wolves, Appalachian stereotypes but for me- he is always going to be Darkman. This was one of the ubiquidous basic cable movies a few years ago it was always on. Sure not a comic book movie (though they made them after) it is a great modern Superhero tale, borrowing concepts from every where to create a truly wonderful thing. Aslo the Bruce Campbell cameo is the BEST. We'll see Sam Remi show up again on this list.

9. Tank Girl

I am not going to lie. This movie would be #1 based on sound track alone. Lori Petty only has one character- luckily this is the right movie for it. This movie also inspired my membership in Suicide Girls...

8. The Incredible Hulk

This is the ONLY hulk movie that exists. It's by no means perfect. I think some corners were cut... but man I liked it. The chase in the Ghetto sold me on this film.

7. Blade

Oh god... the cheesy dialogue alone should make this movie suck. Wesley Snipes doesn't have a great track record... but... this movie makes it work. Its like a Michelangelo carved out of turds.. it works. This movie brought vampires and marvel movies back. Weird huh?

6. Captain America

OK, I am biased here... I admit that. But if you have ever read a Steve Rogers story then you will agree that this movie took an iconic character and transferred him to the screen perfectly. The only other movie to do this better is our number one movie.

5. Batman

Seriously. Do I need to type anything here. Its only flaw? It was made in 1989 and something didn't age well. Jack's joker is a bit more subdued then I think of him, but still frightening. Bat-dance muthertruckers.

4. X-men

Finally, Holywood started looking at comic book heroes as viable characters. This was the beginning of the new age... the one we live in now.

3. Spider-man

I wrote off Spider-man in my mind till this movie... It washed away all those clones. Sam Remi learned a lot between this movie and #10 and it shows. The acting in this is great, the casting is awesome and the upside down kissing is top notch.

2. The Dark Knight

If you disagree I am done with you professionally. (Batman begins could easily knock most of these movies off the list (I am looking at you Darkman.) Nolan gave us the best sequel since Empire... I just hope no ewoke show up in Rising.

1. Superman

ugh... I feel like I am giving Robb a win here, but I can't deny. This is the shit.

Friendly Fire - Superman's Birthday / Exile

2012-02-25T20:20:00.000-06:00

Tracie, Matt & Robb get together for a long awaited podcast. They discuss Superman's Birthday and then Robb gushes over his love of Superman and how he got into comics, with the "Exiled" in space story.

Optimist Beer Prime

2012-02-25T03:31:00.001-06:00

I found this image.. and felt it deserved a post! Transform and drink up!

Tracie's Pull List - Week of February 22, 2012

2012-02-22T10:44:00.007-06:00

So... are, uh... are Caleb and I the only ones kinda dug Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance?

Were we just in the right mood for it with precisely adjusted expectations?

Anyway, just more fuel to the (hell)fire of Tracie Likes Everything.

But hey, don't let my broad and forgiving taste in cinema disuade you. Let's take a rundown of this week's comics-- most of which are genuinely VERY good (if not GREAT), and not just mindless, stunt-filled entertainment which, I assure you, is a totally okay thing to enjoy now and again.

(I mean, you're not going to get The Dark Knight out of a Ghost Rider movie. Ghost Rider lives and breathes camp... and then pees fire on it)

ALRIGHT COMICS!

AQUAMAN #6

Mera spotlight issue! I know Geoff Johns had plans to make Mera a big character in the DCU, following Blackest Night and Brightest Day and it's nice to see that she still remains a focus for him in The New 52. Wish we could say the same of the there-and-gone new Aqualad. (though I guess he's not THAT bad off if he still gets a cartoon series, action figures, and an upcoming videogame-- c'mon, comics, what about SYNERGY???)

CAPTAIN AMERICA AND BUCKY #627

Cap versus robots, as drawn by the excellent Franco Francavilla!

DOROTHY AND THE WIZARD IN OZ #5 (OF 8)

I really don't have anything new to say about the Oz comics because Eric and Skottie are just so good at what they do. Keep it up.

FANTASTIC FOUR #603

GALACTUS VERSUS CELESTIALS!!!! You don't get much more Kirby than THAT.

INCORRUPTIBLE #27

I finally caught up on the "Mark Waid is Evil" comics and, unsurprisingly, they are still SOOOO GOOOOD and now that I know we're in the home stretch of both books, the impact is even stronger. I'm genuinely going to miss these comics when they're gone. Oh, and hey, if you were interested in getting a taste of this great series about a supervillain gone good (or, well... he TRIES), this is the beginning of a new storyarc/jumping-on point.

NEW MUTANTS #38

So there I was, feeling all wishy-washy about New Mutants, just because the Blink storyline seemed like it was... okay... good, not great. And maybe partly, I held some silly grudge over New Mutants stealing artist David Lopez from MYSTIC(and without bringing his excellent colorist with him). But then it happened. #37 was a stand-alone story of Magma going on a date with Mephisto... and it was delightful. Absolutely delightful. It was funny and charming and surprising and I loved everything about it. So now I feel like I gotta give New Mutants another chance to win me over. This storyline is being drawn by Leonardo Fernandez and revolves around Cypher's death back in the original New Mutants run. But, really, I think the message I want comics to take away from this experience is: MORE STAND-ALONE STORIES, PLEASE. It's so easy to become bored over the course of padded-out arcs but if you can pack a lasting punch in a single issue, you have my attention.

SECRET AVENGERS #23

Rick Remender and Gabriel Hardman continue being awesome--and look, the Black-Ops Venom joins the team! (between this and The Fearless, Art Adams is turning in some amaaaaazing covers at Marvel)

TEEN TITANS #6

Static guest-stars!!! Maybe he could find another home here, after his book is canceled.

THE FLASH #6

The Flash and Batwoman are maybe the very best arguments against going digital. There's no way the impact of the gorgeous layouts in these books isn't lost with the digital comic guided-view. Much less, if you were trying to read the full page on your smartphone. Books like these, the bigger you print them, the better they'll look.

THE MIGHTY THOR #11

Fraction's Thor felt like it was taking a little while for it to really click with me-- and I mean the character himself. I was really enjoying the Volstagg versus Scientist discussions at the beginning of his run but Thor, the character, didn't really seem like much. But man-oh-man am I loving what they're doing with this Thor battling his way back into existence thing. And the more Kid Loki I get, the better.

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #7

MILES MORALES! MILES MORALES! This is just pure joy of comics right here. And anything Chris Samnee touches is gold.

UNCANNY X-FORCE #22

Having never read Alan Davis's Excalibur or Captain Britian comics, a lot of this Otherworld story is lost on me... but Rick Remender's X-Force is still one of the best/worst teams in comics right now.

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #6

More pure, gleaming joy. I haven't had this much fun reading X-Men comics since I started. It's like everything I've ever loved about the X-Men, smushed into one comic. And then the bits of love that can't all fit into this, trickle over to Kieron Gillen's Uncanny X-Men.

COMICS, YOU GUYS!

Graphic Violence - The Art of Comic Book Fight Scenes

2012-02-20T20:44:00.000-06:00

Coming on March 2... in Lincoln at Doc Place! Look to see art made by CBXF's top artists! And some other incredible artists as well. Oh, and me... Check it out!!!

Avengers Movie VS The Dark Knight Rises

2012-02-19T01:11:00.000-06:00

Ok, I saw Ghost Rider...

2012-02-18T19:55:00.000-06:00

Today, My wife and I were out near the mall and didn't want to go home yet. "Let's go to a movie." My wife says. "Sure, I'm kinda interested in seeing Ghost Rider." I say. "Sure!" She says. Ok, its a comic based movie. I feel obligated to eventually see it. But...

Ok, let me first say its not horrible. There are some really, really awesome moments. I knew what I was getting into movie wise when it came to a film made by "Crank" Directors: Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor. There are some fun scenes. I even liked Nic Cage. But, this was not a good movie. The good does not out weigh the bad. Most importantly... this wasn't a movie to take my wife to.

The Good: Action is great! Special Effects rock. I laffed a few times and even jumped from being startled once. Explosions and car chases, fight scenes and smoke. Visually, this movie is really nice. Camera angles that show some great thought and the animated "backstory" was very cool.

The Bad: Dialog and Story and Acting and and and... But I wasn't surprised by this. I knew it was going to be a bit of tongue and cheek. I was ok with campy dialog and wafer thin plot. I still felt like they moved the character along and gave a little more, new depth. I knew this was going to be bad... this isn't what turned me off the movie. Here is what is...

The Ugly: WHAT? Whats with the weird delays and visual wobbling. The Riders first appearance in the movie it just odd. He jump in a parking lot on his bike, get off the bike and just stares. Kinda wobbles and looks at people. No shooting... just jaws dropping. No penence stare... just a weird pause. It then it happens multiple times in the movie. Like someone loved doing long slow shots on the Rider and kept putting in footage with no dialog. It made no sense.

Anyway, I wish I waited til thsi went to DVD. Its worth watching, just not 20 bucks on a date. This movie was about the way I felt after Punisher: War Zone. Campy, Fun, Violent, and a little funny, but overall poorly done. But the Spider-Man trailer in 3-d was awesome.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of February 15, 2012

2012-02-14T00:08:00.006-06:00

PRETEND I POSTED THIS YESTERDAY:

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Let's talk a bit about my one, true love: COMICS!

AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #4

Our first Avenging Spider-Man without Madureira and we get everyone's favorite artist, Greg Land. While mildly depressing, we still get the sharp script of Zeb Wells. AND it's a one-shot. It'd be awful hard not to make a Hawkeye team-up like this fun.

BATMAN #6

So, all you folks read Batman #5 last month, right? Have you picked your jaws off the floor yet, cuz another one hits tomorrow.

BIRDS OF PREY #6

Sad to think these are our last few issues with Jesus Saiz on art but dang I'm really digging this book.

DAREDEVIL #9

Oh Daredevil... so fitting that you follow Valentine's Day because, my love for you? It burns.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #9 (OF 12)

I really hope the fact that Valkyrie is a member of Remender's Secret Avengers means that what I think they're gearing up for in this book doesn't really happen.

GENERATION HOPE #16

I was contemplating whether or not to cut this series loose, in the wake of Gillen's departure but Marvel seems to have made my decision for me by canceling it.

GLORY #23

I'm really fascinated by this wave of Liefeld-approved reimaginings of his old Extreme Studios characters by all sorts of indie comics folk. (though a bit confusing that the total reimaginings maintaing the original numbering) Glory, in particular, catches my interest, since the creative team has a real chance to give us a strong, female-led book. Plus, I've been a Ross Campbell fan for years so, all the rest of you? Welcome to the club.

SUPERGIRL #6

Having a completely rebooted Super-family mythos still weirds me out a little bit but darned if I don't enjoy these books.

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #679.1

Morbius, the Living Vampire!

THE AVENGERS #22

The Stuart Immonen cover makes me miss Stuart Immonen. And Daniel Acuna. Renato Guedes steps in on art chores, this issue, as the two core Avengers books work to wrap up the longstanding Norman Osborn story.

THE INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #513

Iron Man versus War Machine! More of the Mandarin's evil plot! The kind of stuff you want happening in an Iron Man comic!

THE NEW AVENGERS #21

More fighting between the New Avengers and the Dark New Avengers or New Dark Avengers!

THUNDERBOLTS #170

A Thunderbolt in King Arthur's Court! (Tracie, you like time travel and superheroes and charm and whit--here, have some Thunderbolts comics)

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #7

Nick Spencer's Ultimate X-Men feels like what Ultimate X-Men should feel like. A modern, relevant take on superhero mutants with the racial/social undertones the series was created around.

UNCANNY X-MEN #7

Kieron Gillen, why are you so good at writing? You're so good at writing.

WINTER SOLDIER #2

Reeeeally loved #1. Story and art working in perfect harmony.

WOLVERINE #301

Wolverine versus the new Silver Samurai! Sweet cover by Olivier Coipel! More at by Steven Sanders!

WONDER WOMAN #6

I will be elated to have Cliff Chiang back on the book, but Tony Akins does an EXCELLENT job at filling in.

Robb's Guide to Etiquette in the Comic Shop

2012-02-11T20:49:00.000-06:00

Ever been in your favorite comic shop and just been annoyed with those around you. Or unable to hold a regular conversation without someone telling you that JMS is the greatest writer ever to grace a funny book? Well just point them to my all purpose guide to how you should act in a Comic Shop!

1. Please don't read the books before you buy them. Its understandable to flip through them and see if you bought it or not. But don't sit there and read it. You don't watch a DVD before you buy it. (Unless you saw it in the theatre... ok bad analogy.) This is your shop owner's bread and butter. Pay for the book before you read them.

2. Don't make eye contact with those playing gaming cards, HeroClicks, or and Role Playing Game. If you do make eye contact, expect a conversation about Armor Class, Double Damage or How much better 4th edition is compared to 3rd. You're best to just keep your head low and eyes down at all times, but since this is impossible, if eye contact is established bring up a sporting event, a car, or mention girls. This subject will usually frighten or disorientate the gamer and through him off his game. They can sometimes counter by speaking louder and about nerdish things. On the worst occasion, you'll have to smile, nod and slowly back away. Usually your friendly comic shop owner can spot a customer in distress, and lend a helping, "Ready to check out?" But sometimes, its the shop owner talking your ear off. So be cautious.

3. If you have a pull file... please try and pick it up regularly. We all hit hard ships, but again this is the store owner lively hood. Don't make him call you.

4. Please be aware of those around you. If you see someone standing an arm lengths away from but scanning through the "Marvel" section... be polite and walk around him/her or say excuse me and smile as you reach for a comic in that person's view. DO NOT BE A DOUCHBAG and just step into their viewing area and block their view. Because you should know he had a bad day and was just looking for some book to help ease through his lunch break. Just because you think you're a bigger Marvel Fan and you're fanboy ass deserved to walk right in front of the 2 foot space between me and the wall of comics...doesn't mean I won't donkey punch you from behind.

5. Never assume nerds are weak... we are not. Some of us are short tempered. DONT WALK IN THE 2 FOOT SPACE BETWEEN US AND THE WALL OF COMICS.

6. Don't be afraid to ask the store owner if he/she has something that isn't out. Sometimes someone hasn't picked up their pull list in 5 weeks and the shop owner is happy to get rid of some hard to sell books. Most shop owners are pretty cool and knowledgeable. If you show them that you can hold an intelligent conversation, they usually welcome the chat.

7. Don't show random customers lewd or gross YouTube Videos that give them nightmares.

Well, I think that will be all for this installment, but I promise you'll see more comic shop etiquette.

Robb's Semi Weekly Nerd Journal

2012-02-10T16:00:00.000-06:00

Well, this week I've decided to change my comic buying habits. I'm tired of not being able to talk with Tracie about current comic events and craziness and being weeks behind. I'm still doing DCBS to order my books, but now I'm going Bi-weekly. No more so I have to avoid Twitter... ok I still will be a couple weeks removed, but I'll see how it goes.

Also we had a small Superbowl gathering. Watched a game and saw some mediocre commercials. I was let down by the "Ferris Bueller's" commercial when it turns out to be Mathew Broderick and not his legendary character Ferris.

I finished up 7 images for the art show... (Details will be posted, I'm sure... Because our own Matt & Tracie will also be showing, so you better come!!!) The theme is "Violence" in comics or "Fight"! Be sure to check it out!

Ok, so I don't have a lot to report other than current books that I just read have been great: FF & Fantastic Four A+, Justice League had a solid B. Action Comics is great and I agree with Tracie that I do miss Morales even though Kubert is always good. Lastly, Batman is Frickin Awesome. Best book this last month. Ok, hopefully I'll have more to report soon.

If It Ain't Broke...

2012-02-09T11:26:00.005-06:00

So, this morning's comic industry news has been filled to the brim with D(etective)C(omics) Comics playing musical chairs with their artists. (oh, and the Smallville Season 11 digital comic)

Take a deep breath and here's the rundown: 90's Animal Man artist, Steve Pugh, is taking over art on Animal Man; Animal Man's Travel Foreman is moving to Birds of Prey; Birds of Prey's Jesus Saiz is moving to Resurrection Man; Resurrection Man's Ferndando Dagino is moving to Suicide Squad; and whoever was drawing Suicide Squad is... not.

After reading all of this (and lord help us, let that be the last of these announcements, today) I find myself consumed with the question: "WHY?"

Pugh was already sharing art chores with Foreman on Animal Man, so that didn't come as too much of a surprise, but Jesus Saiz is PERFECTION on Birds of Prey. Absolute PERFECTION. Especially with the addition of colorist, June Chung. He draws strong, realistic women and that's SUPER important on a book like BoP. (and something it hasn't often seen, with artists like Ed Benes and Ardian Syaf)

So, why the shuffle? I know fan reaction to Travel Foreman on Animal Man has appeared to be split right down the middle. (I fall on the "Love Him" side) Potentially, bringing Steve Pugh to the book would appease everyone. Foreman has previously worked with writer, Duane Swierczynski, on Iron Fist, so that makes sense... but do they think that moving Saiz to a lower-selling book will improve sales? Did he simply want to try something completely different, having been a part of the last two volumes of Birds of Prey? Suicide Squad has already seen quite a shuffle of artists since it launched so one more makes little difference.

It just... seems strange and pretty needless, all the shifting about of artists.

But mostly I'm just upset about losing Saiz. I dig Foreman quite a lot and I'm sure he'll do fine on Birds of Prey... and he's definitely not in the "Image-style" school that Benes and Syaf travel in, but... and I can't emphasize this enough... Jesus Saiz is just SO perfect on Birds of Prey and it's become such a great female-focused action/caper comic, I'd hate to see anything shake the series.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of February 8, 2011

2012-02-07T15:52:00.004-06:00

So, what'd you guys think of the Super Bo--AAAAAATHEAVENGERSTRAILERAAAAAA!!!!

Actually, the extended trailer that hit online afterwords was so much more satisfying than the one that aired during the game.

Or maybe it's just because I was able to watch it without a room full of people talking.

And by people, I mean DEAR FRIENDS who I was very grateful to have been in the company of.

Also, that new Amazing Spider-Man trailer? Preeeeetty nice.

Now how long before we get a look at Man of Steel, huh?

Anyway. Comics. I sure do think about them a lot.

And so does my wallet.

Let's, my wallet and I, have another conversation about comics.

BATGIRL #6

Batgirl continues to hang by a thread by remaining juuuuuust interesting enough to keep me coming back. It just continues to be a question of how long that'll last, this loyalty to Gail Simone and curiosity regarding this new Barbara Gordon.

BATMAN AND ROBIN #6

Meanwhile, regarding Batman and Robin, I am so beyond sold. Love the art, love the story, love the pairing of this very unusual father and son and they way the villain is manipulating the tenuous relationship they have.

BATWOMAN #6

Another of the just plain amazing books being put out today and we FINALLY get to Amy Reeder's first arc on the book. Been waiting for her debut since about November 2010.

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: SEASON 9 #6

New cover artist Phil Noto! Yaaaaay! (also I really like the Buffyverse comics)

CAPTAIN AMERICA #8

Wasn't expecting to enjoy the post-McNiven arc as much as I do but I'm really interested in what's going on with Steve's powers, here.

FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #6

I LIKE Frankenstein but I don't know if I LOVE it... and that's something I'm wrestling with a little bit as I try to think harder about what I'm reading and why I'm reading it. Because, let's face it, I buy a lot of comics. Frankenstein is a really good book but I'm trying to decide whether I reeeally like it and if I actually look forward to the next issue or if I just buy it out of habit or loyalty to Jeff Lemire... though, honestly, if the art was a little stronger, I'd probably be a lot happier with it. It's fine art, but I just think it's missing something to really sell the script.

GREEN LANTERN #6

Still talking about art, Doug Mahnke is nowhere to be seen this issue, as we get guest art by Mike Choi, who I'm not a big fan of, but I think it's just for an issue.

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #634

Ahhhhh, no question of whether or not I love Journey Into Mystery. So much love.

MEGA MAN #10

Mega Man makes me so inexplicably happy. Such strong work by all involved.

NEW MUTANTS #37

New Mutants is on the bubble with me. I like it well enough, but again the question of love comes to play. It's a fine comic. Fine writing, fine art, fine characters. But I'm not especially excited to find out what happens next. This may have to pass the scrutiny of The Flip Test or slip from my pull list.

POWERS #8

HOLY CATS, there's a new issue of Powers, this week? Do I even want to look to see when the last issue came out? Such a shame that this series has suffered so badly from scheduling all these years. It's always great when you actually sit down to read them.

SECRET AVENGERS #22

The Point One issue with Zircher was a fun time but this is where things REALLY get started. Regular artist Gabriel Hardman joins the fantastic Rick Remender for a quirky little team consisting of Hawkeye, Captain Britain, Beast, Valkyrie, Giant Man AND Ant-Man, (black ops) Venom, and Black Widow. Super excited!

SUPERBOY #6

Superboy meets SuperGIRL! R.B. Silva is so good.

THE INCREDIBLE HULK #5

Another book by a creator I love but I just don't know how I feel about it. This issue may be the decider for me.

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #5

THIS Jason Aaron book, on the other hand, I love SO, SO, SO much. Ugh. So good, you guys.

The Death and Return of Superman

2012-02-05T22:55:00.005-06:00

As someone who's actually had a co-worker come up to me and ask me to explain The Death of Superman to them, it's nice that I can now just point them to this:

I've seen this linked several places online but to be fair, it wasn't until my cousin Scott placed it on my Facebook wall that I finally sat down and watched it.

It's... it's pretty accurate. Though--and I'm sure I can speak for him in this--Robb and I disagree in his initial statements about Superman and there being nothing special about him. And I can say that as someone who spent most of her life in the "Superman is boring" camp.

But that's all beside the point. The point I actually wanted to bring up, besides the fact that this is a fantastic and hilarious and accurate-ish video, is that this video was created by Max Landis, son of John Landis, and screenwriter of the new film, CHRONICLE, that brought in a lot of strong reviews this past weekend.

I haven't seen Chronicle yet--though I'd very much like to--but I understand that the director of the film, Josh Trank, has been rumored to be the frontrunner for the Fantastic Four reboot. Now, if those reviews and this wonderful Superman recap are any indication, I'd like to say that maybe this kid aught to reteam with Josh if that really comes to be. He knows his stuff and, even better, he delivers it in a really charming, fun way. (and lord, those celebrity cameos)

I think we need another Comicbook Crossfire Goes To The Movies weekend and hit up some Chronicle. Maybe we could double-feature it with Phantom Menace 3D. (consider it a cleanser)

Before Watchmen - After M.A.S.H.

2012-02-01T22:41:00.001-06:00

Before Watchmen huh? Well… DC first off, I’m impressed. Seriously. Just when I think the hoop-la is over and you all will settle and let the market adjust (as well as my wallet), you go a pull off something completely unexpected again. First the New 52, then the Day and date digital. Now this. I don’t always agree with what you do or how you do it, but man… you sure know how to stay in the spotlight! As a company, you’ve had an incredible 12 months of publicity and no matter my opinion, you’ve put yourself in the driver’s seat for the future of comics. But a Prequel... ok... I'm going ot be all over the place on this one, so hear me out.

I got the “niceties” out of the way, so let me continue by saying, a “Prequel to the greatest Graphic Novel of all time” is never a good idea. Sequels and Prequels can NEVER live up to this hype. I don’t like the thought of retreading on what was Comic Book Perfection. Really, look at The Dark Knight Strikes Back debacle. You are asking for trouble and you will fall short no matter how well done this is. The movie did a great job of really trying to hit what made Watchmen special, and although I liked the movie… it’s a poor comparison to the Original. If it were up to me, I’d leave Watchmen alone and let it live in the minds and hearts of fans as it’s done. But it’s not up to me… It’s up to DC.

Having said all that… Yes… Yes this looks damn interesting. I’m Super intrigued as some of the creative choices and story ideas. Darwyn Cooke on Minutemen. YES! Very cool! Does this idea work? Does making Prequels & Sequels make the original better? Or just kill the idea? What is to be gained? Here is a list of some ideas/examples of Prequels & Sequels…

1. The Star Wars Prequels: Gave us some cool moments. I don’t hate them like many of my peers. But they don’t hold a candle to the magic of the originals. Loved Darth Maul, Jango Fett, and the Epic Saber battle in the “Revenge of the Sith”. Otherwise… Eh.
2. X-Men First Class: Totally unexpected. It fits (kinda) into continuity… with some flaws and inconsistencies, but it feels like it flows and has the same voice as the original X-men movies. Great Acting, cool story. I was betting I’d hate X-men First Class, I was wrong. A nice Summer Blockbuster surprise.
3. Smallville: Ok, Season 1,2,3, & parts of 4 were awesome. Then it became super inconsistent. But it also developed into its own thing, pretty removed from what we know as Superman. Overall, I’m a fan of the show, but It became very flawed as the years went on. Not to mention the worst ending in TV history… unless you watch the YouTube video we posted months ago.
4. All-Star Batman: Dare you to tell me this isn’t a prequel to Dark Knight Returns. BLAH! All Hype, little substance! Blah!
5. Dark Knight Strikes Back: Not only was it late… by many months, not only was it hyped as the 2nd coming of the greatest Batman story ever… It was just bad. Bad, bad bad… it didn’t feel like Dark Knight. It wasn’t the special story that the original was.
6. Young Indiana Jones: I like it. Low budget, but it’s ok. Doesn’t hurt the franchise any. I liked em dammit.
7. The Hobbit: Well the book came out before the Lord of the Ring Books, but the Movie is coming out after the Lord of the Rings movies… so… ? I have little doubt this will do well. And all the footage has been awesome.
8. X-men Origins: Wolverine: Dirty Shameful Sex, Dirty Shameful Sex!

So with Prequels in mind, what projects would make cool Before stories. I thought of a few:

1. All Star Superman: How cool would it be to have Grant Morrison back to do a Silver Age-y Superman Story again? Damn Cool! But maybe that is what he’s doing on his Action Series?
2. Ghostbusters: Yeah, how about some college antics as the gang meet for the first time and share some scary stories and maybe how they could one day make money busting ghosts? Tell you, that’s a hit. Ray and Peter and Egon, partying and studying Tobin's spirit guide. Peter getting the ladies and driving a Dodge Dart! Hit I tell ya!
3. Lobo: I want a Lobo origin story... is that a Prequel? Maybe?
4. Supernatural: I'd love to see the father out training the boys to be hunters. They could be 10-12 and have him running and teaching them the ways of tracking and hunting the undead, evil and ghostal.

Ok, all kidding aside... I'm not keen on a Prequel for the Watchmen. But I'm mature enough to separate the classic that came first and this interesting new direction. I'm ok with the care it looks like DC is putting in. Artist integrity is overrated anyway. If you don't like the idea of sequel, don't read it. Make your statement that way. I'm probably going to buy Darwyn Cooke's Minutemen. Anyway, what do you think?

Tracie's Pull List - Week of February 1, 2011

2012-01-31T12:17:00.004-06:00

Allow me to rant a bit before we get to this week's books...

Just as I come to the decision to drop Justice League Dark, DC announces that Jeff Lemire will be taking over as writer with issue #9 and will bring along some new team members and a closer tie to Justice League proper. NERTS. (or YAY?) That said, I'll probably still skip these next few issues just because I have no interest whatsoever in the I, Vampire crossover.

Speaking of, DC sure is going pretty crossover heavy with the New 52 lately. I get that it might be under the notion that these books have all had their opening arcs out of the way and now might be the time to pollinate readers from one book over to another book but it's starting to feel a little daunting with every new crossover that gets announced. I was enjoying having my (mostly) new universe of titles that I can read and enjoy on their own merits. I don't want to feel like I need to read bat-books I don't care about just to participate in Scott Snyder's big Owl epic or whatever's meant to be coming up in the Super-books.

Hopefully they'll be tie-ins and not actual chapters in the story, where I can skip them without feeling like I just missed a chunk of story. The OMAC/Frankenstein crossover worked out well in that each book told their own perspective of that event so if you read both, you probably got a richer experience, but as I only read Frankenstein, I got to enjoy another issue of Frankenstein that just happened to include Frankie going up against OMAC. It felt like a regular issue of the series and not a Part 2 of something I didn't read Part 1 of. That's my concern, I guess. You got a nice (mostly) clean start with The New 52, don't start falling back on old habits, making readers feel like they're "forced" to buy other books to avoid confusion. They should be able to stand on their own but if that reader feels like they're interested in finding out more about this OMAC or I, Vampire or whatever, they can hop over to that. Reward your readers, don't punish them.

And now, we return you to your regularly scheduled shopping list...

ACTION COMICS #6

Great scott! The New 52 is half a year old already! Present-day, alien armor Superman teams up with the/a Legion of Super-Heroes!

ANIMAL MAN #6

Animal Man: The Movie, with guest art by the excellent John Paul Leon!

AVENGERS X-SANCTION #3 (OF 4)

I'm still not sure what this series is trying to do/say, making Cable act like a nutter, attacking the Avengers without question, but I can't really complain so long as I have McGuinness art. I just hope there's a decent payoff, as opposed to just 4 issues of lunacy, biding time before Avengers Vs. X-Men kicks off.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #8 (OF 12)

Valkyrie raids Utopia! My level of enjoyment with this series has not dipped one bit and it makes me very excited to see Cullen Bunn and Paul Pelletier take over Wolverine when Jason Aaron leaves.

IRREDEEMABLE #34

Brand new arc! Still so behind!

STATIC SHOCK #6

It's sad to read all the comments from John Rozum about how this book was handled and why he left. I'm still enjoying it for what it is and will stick it out to the bitter end. This issue features Hardware! Yay!

SWAMP THING #6

The one-two punch of Swamp Thing and Animal Man, still totally awesome. Nice example of rewarding readers who read both books without punishing those who don't.

SWEET TOOTH #30

30 issues and still... so... good.

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #679

Spider-Man is trying to prevent Alternate 1985 from happening! Can he prevent the murder of his father, George McFly, and keep Doc from being committed to an insane asylum?? I might be thinking of something else but that's pretty close.

THE DEFENDERS #3

Really strong stuff, here. Fraction seems to work best when he's out on his own, being all high-concepty and weird.

THE PUNISHER #8

Oh Punisher, I love you. I mean Greg Rucka. Greg Rucka is who I love.

UNCANNY X-FORCE #21

The Trial of Fantomex continues! AoA Nightcrawler is kind of a dick!

UNCANNY X-MEN #6

Surprise! Kieron Gillen playing off of recent events in X-Force in a super excellent way! Nice to see Psylock's precarious status get some attention.

WINTER SOLDIER #1

Oh man, this book looks so, so pretty. The former Cap team of Ed Brubaker and Butch Guice and phenomenal colorist Bettie Breitweiser takes on a Bucky/Black Widow spy book!

Cover of the Month for January 2012

2012-01-30T20:11:00.002-06:00

Robb's Weekly the week of Jan (Last)

2012-01-30T20:03:00.000-06:00

This week and some was a little less productive compared to the last few. We did get together to record a “Friendly Fire” and debate who’d beat who. But even now, I’m 2nd guessing my opinion on a few choices. That’s the fun of comics. I have a few more surprise debate ideas in the future to spring on the group. So plan on seeing more of those. I know we are still planning on recording a “Golden Longbox” soon. (Details to follow) I also tried to make a cool musical intro for the Friendly Fire audio podcast… but I’m not super familiar with Adobe Audio yet. It’s coming together. With some major aid from Monty...

I didn’t read any comics this week either, but I watched a few comic related movies, while I drew. I watched Dark Knight, Thor, and Captain America… pretty much back to back on Saturday morning. THEN I watched Dark Knight on Sunday again with the commentary on. Damn that movie is so good. I tear up a little each time the Joker says, “You complete me!” Such a great movie.

I drew a lot over the weekend, then cleaned and played NCAA football against my little brother… who beat me in the conference championship game. Oh well, there is always next season. I played a little DCU Online of Friday too, and went on my first League Mission with Jack and the gang. Needless to say… I sucked. But it was fun. Then Sunday nite the Mrs. And myself dueled it out in-front of the Sports tube as she cheered The Giants against my Niners!!! She won. Now we wait for the big Game this weekend.

I also picked up some DVDs to entertain while I drew. I found some cheap Supernatural seasons... and now I can't sleep everytime I hear a moan or the lights flicker. But I find I love the show. What else... Oh Yeah got my DCBS comics in the mail today! So now I have to get the usual monthly thing together to make the cover of the month and etc! Ok thats its for now. Happy Week. Go Giants, not frost giants.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of January 25, 2011

2012-01-24T15:37:00.004-06:00

I have nothing to add to the before-the-list part of this thing. Life is lifey. Let's just get down to talking about this week's comics, okay?

ANGEL & FAITH #6

This comic? Still really great. I hope Issacs is back on art with this issue, though the Harmony one-off with Noto art was fun.

AQUAMAN #5

Hopefully we can see a little bit of the humor and heart from the first couple issues work its way back into this book, after everything got so dire.

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER, VOL 01: THE PROMISE, PART 1 TP

I still need to track down/order the other Airbender comics collections, but I'm thrilled that they're doing new "canon" comics. Will help with the wait for Korra to air.

CAPTAIN AMERICA AND BUCKY #626

Franco Francavilla does great work but I don't know if it's Asmus co-writing or what, but this arc doesn't have quite the same magic as the previous Brubaker/Andreyko/Samnee run did.

FANTASTIC FOUR #602

I would be super alright with Barry Kitson being the new regular artist. He's a perfect fit and Paul Mounts' coloring makes him look the best he has, maybe ever.

FF #14

Ahh, my double dose of Hickman and the Richardses.

INCORRUPTIBLE #26

I missed an issue so my reading is on hold until I fix my gap. Hurm.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #5

Oh Justice League, how you have defied us with your sense of fun.

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #5

This, on the other hand, I was expecting more from. It seemed to start off well enough but the story's really going nowhere and while there's still moments of interesting personalities, I just don't know if I even feel compelled to finish out the arc, presuming there is an arc structure. If this issue doesn't pass the Flip Test, I may be done with JLDark. It's not a bad book by any measure, it's just failed to keep its hooks in me.

SECRET AVENGERS #21.1

Meanwhile, Secret Avengers coming off a truly excellent run by Warren Ellis and his parade of top comics artists and segueing into a new run by the impressive Rick Remender who made Uncanny X-Force one of the very best things Marvel publishes. I have high hopes for what he can do with Secret Avengers and this is the "Point One" kickoff where we see how the team transitions from Steve Rogers to Hawkeye with guest art by Patrick Zircher.

STUFF OF LEGEND JESTERS TALE #4 (OF 4)

Another series I have gaps in and will eagerly sit down with once I close those gaps.

TEEN TITANS #5

Finally! Teen Titans versus Superboy!

THE FLASH #5

Still one of the very best things The New 52 has to offer.

THE MIGHTY THOR #10

Tanarus versus Heimdall?? Am I the only person who wishes they'd retcon/transform Heimdall so he would more closely resemble Idris Elba?

ULTIMATE COMICS THE ULTIMATES #6

Nice to see Ultimate Falcon make a return. And, perhaps, ANOTHER Ultimates return we've been waiting for. It's also nice to see Brandon Peterson reappear at Marvel, lately.

See you next week!

Where's Despero?

2012-01-22T16:45:00.001-06:00

Can you find the World Dominator?

Friendly Fire Episode 21!

2012-01-19T20:36:00.000-06:00

The Great Debate! An all out battle royal! Who wins? Listen!

DC's new look

2012-01-19T18:57:00.001-06:00

Tracie forwarded me the new branding for DC Comics, that's to be released and implemented in March. Here is a bit of our conversation. If you'd like to see more about the story: Click this link.

DC's new Branding

Tracie: The interior art is actually going to be by Joe Bennett so this is just the cover but lord is it misrepresentative of the interiors. Joe's a great artist and has a great history with Hawkman and this is one dull-ass Liefeld cover. Have you seen the new DC logos?

Robb: I like Bennetts art. Since 52, I think he's a strong artist. But what's Liefelds role? Writer... Fuck that. LOL. DC New? No I haven't... New logos? Hmmm.

Tracie: DC's new brand identity, launching in March:

Robb: Woah, I do like it... But why? They just updated and its sooo far from any original looking dc icon... It kinda bugs me. Why stray so far away in this new look?

Tracie: That's the main complaint. That every DC logo has at least kept to a gradual evolution of the circled DC and the classic bullet. And yeah, the current logo is still pretty new--and recognizable, thanks to the cool animation used in the movies and tv shows. But I guess they felt like this worked better as an app icon that could be animated on iPads and the like. The peel-back would be animated. I dunno. It's an interesting choice. Supposedly it went through extensive focus groups. Just shows how focused the company is on its digital future. I like that there are customized versions. The glowing green one for GL. The Watchmen one. And they do look pretty good in the corners of the books. And are less intrusive than the big (and mixed-font) "DC Comics" on the books right now.

Robb: I like it... But its sooo different. Well the worlds a changing.
Continuing Robb's Thoughts:
Ok, I've had time to stew on this... DC is trying super hard to stay ahead of the pack. And I respect this. I really do. But why veer so far from you're traditional look? You're established look? It was crammed down our throats that DC was going back to the popular Silver Age line ups of Hal as Green Lantern, Barry as Flash, and my least favorite... Barbara as Batgirl. I feel like this is a slap in many ways. Now as a designer, I really like this design. I think its sleek and modern and it lends its self to adaptability. But I feel like it throws away what had come before. Its difficult for me. That Circle with the DC font and a Star was a staple of my youth. And when they modernized it... they paid homage to what came before.

But, I'll get used to this. I do like the design. And Tracie is right, its lends itself to many new digital formats as more eye catching and modern. *sigh* Can't stop progress!

Robb Semi-Weekly Nerdy Journal

2012-01-18T21:49:00.000-06:00

My geek week in review...Well I finished my first piece for art display in years! I forgot how stressful and at the same time fun doing an art project can be.
I’m doing the layout for my next piece as we speak. I’m also in negotiations for scripting my movie... since I have no money and will expect friends to do this for free... Plan on this movie stinking! But hopefully a lot of fun to do. I’m in round two of my writing duties... and so far I’m upholding my New Year’s Resolution! I have also read my entire month’s pull of comics and I agree with much of what Tracie wrote in my last column... Are we expecting more? I say yes, many of these books have top talent and are established characters... coming up with a fresh, new twist and good story “Should” be easy. And we forget, it’s not. There have been some great re-launches and some bad ones. I’m just glad that I’m enjoying Superman (on both books actually, and still very happy with Justice League) They have room to get better.

I finished Sons of Anarchy Season 3 last night and Yes, it was excellent! What will I do till Netflix updates the seasons? Breaking Bad? Maybe...

Lastly, I’ve neglected DCU-Online this last week, due to my brother and I starting a NCAA football tournament on the PS3. I’ve had a blast talking smack and shutting down defenses and reconnecting to my little brother. So DCU... I’ve not forgotten our love, just spreading myself a bit thin. I am married... I can’t tell if my wife is mad or glad I’m neglecting her.

Ok, that’s all till next week!

Sh*t Comic Nerds Say

2012-01-17T21:58:00.003-06:00

A friend of CBXF sent me this link... I cracked up. Thanks Jack. Hilarious

Awards time Again...

2012-01-17T21:37:00.001-06:00

Its coming!

The 84th Annual CBXF's Golden Longbox is coming...

Possible Award Categories:

Best Character:
Best NEW character:
Best Oh Shit Moment:
Worst Comic of the Year:
Best Summer Comic Movie:
Best Single Issue:
Biggest Disappointment:
Best CBXF moment:
Best Tracie Awkward moment:

Tracie's Pull List - Week of January 18, 2011

2012-01-17T17:51:00.005-06:00

There are some great comics out this week and they're all being written by Rob Liefeld!

But not really.

AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #3

SO HAPPY TO HAVE MADUREIRA ART BUT NOW I HAVE TO WAIT AT LEAST 3 MONTHS FOR MORE OH WOE IS ME

BATMAN #5

Capullo & owwwlllllssss.

BIRDS OF PREY #5

So I guess it's safe to say that Barbara Gordon was never Oracle and the Birds never existed before this point? Hm.

DAREDEVIL #8

Part 2 of Mark Waid's Spider-Man/Daredevil crossover! It makes me oh so happy.

DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #5

Goodbye Deadman! You were a really good comic! I've no interest in Didio and Ordway doing Challengers of the Unknown, though.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #7 (OF 12)

Valkyrie! Guest-starring Wolverine as he tears the crap out of Crossbones.

GENERATION HOPE #15

Oh, Gen Hope, I just don't know about you right now.

MOON KNIGHT #9

I'm wondering if Moon Knight will have any bearing on Bendis/Hitch's big Ultron epic.

NEW MUTANTS #36

So unless I'm misunderstanding things, this is the original 616 Blink that was brought back to life during Necrosha and not the AoA Blink, hence no recognition between her and Nate Grey. But she's more confident and in control than 616 Blink ever was.

SUPERGIRL #5

Argo City!

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS VOL. 2 #3 (OF 6)

Nick Spencer! Guest art by Walt Simonson!

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #678

Dan Slott and Humberto Ramos are back with visions of THE FUTURRRRE!

THE AVENGERS #21

Nice of Bendis to make Storm an Avenger just in time for a big Avengers Vs. X-Men event.

THE INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #512

Tony Stark, your life is the worst. Pepper Potts, your life is following suit.

THUNDERBOLTS #169

These sure have been coming out fast because somehow I am now nearly 3 issues behind. Better take care of that before tomorrow night.

TINY TITANS #48

Tiny Titans UNMASKED! Gasp.

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #6

New storyarc drawn by Chris Samnee! YESSSSSSS. Also, starting this issue, free digital download!

UNCANNY X-FORCE #20

THE TRIAL OF FANTOMEX, PART 1.

UNCANNY X-MEN #5

Oh hey, Greg Land's back.

WONDER WOMAN #5

Guest art by Tony Akins. Well, if we must. Still very interested in what Azzarello's doing with the character.

See you next week!

Where's Starro?

2012-01-14T17:09:00.002-06:00

Robb's Semi-Weekly Nerdy Journal!

2012-01-12T21:27:00.001-06:00

Well this week has had lots of ups and downs. On the top of the list, our very own Tracie felt the need to stay at a very expensive hotel. A hotel where the food is poor and the sponge baths aren’t nearly as fun as they sound. Seriously though, our Tracie was under the weather and spent some time in the hospital, but I’m happy to report she is out and doing better. Soon she’ll be caught up on her comic reading and forcing her comic book – driven political agenda on the rest of the CBXF gang. (Yeah Tracie… we know, Joss for President)

So I got my books and found that my DC Reboot tolerance is sharpening. Fewer and fewer books really are making the cut. I finally decided that despite the creative team quality on all 3 of the Legion books, I find I don’t care about them. I just can’t discover my focus. In fact I just find them hard to read. The story could be lights out, but I just can’t get into the Legion like I used to. So… Dropped! Blue Beetle also was cut. It’s just not the fun story I recall after the Infinite Crisis. Other books getting cut, Justice League Dark, Justice League International, Batgirl and Birds of Prey. Firestorm… you have a one issue warning. Next strike and you’re out! Marvel has seen some cuts from me too. More financial tan anything, but Journey into Mystery isn’t clicking… I was about to give up on FF, then Fantastic Four 600 hit… and I’m now collecting 2 FF titles. How’d that happen?

Some strange keepers… Swamp Thing and Animal Man, didn’t think I’d like those 2, but they are great! Voodoo has been super fun for me, too. And lastly who can argue with All Star Western?!

But the best story I read was written by Grant Morrison, but it was in Action Comics. In issue number 5, we have yet ANOTHER re-telling of Superman’s origin. And honestly, nothing is terribly ground breaking. Its well written and I like it, but not terribly unique. What was unique was the Martha/Jonathan story that takes place as an add on piece at the end. Maybe it’s the timing and the parallels I’m drawing in their battle to get pregnant, but the Story of the Kents Pre-Kalel was just perfect.

Other geeky-news. Played some DCUO and you’ll never guess but my Jock-Red Neck brother, liked playing along too. He got to tag along and punch villains and listen to lousy Super-hero banter and Sean talking about what vagrant was running through his neighborhood. We had a blast! I also learned that there is a Casino Video Game over at the Horseshoe where you drive the Batmobile and fight the Joker. And GAMBLE?!

Netflix… This week, I watched a making of “South Park” , where I learned exactly what I suspected all along. They just sit around a table and talk about stupid ideas until they laugh and then someone writes it down! I want to make money that way! I also have been watching season 3 of Sons of Anarchy… oh the suspense!

Ok, so I've promised to be more creative. Not only am I writing a movie script. (Which is going actually really well.) But I was invited to put a couple pieces in a show. Now this isn't a huge deal for most. Our our Tracie is quite the accomplished artist and Matt Haney has done some incredible stuff as well. But for me, its been forever since I out this pressure on myself. And I forgot how stressed out I get. But I'm working on it. I'll have 2 pieces by time of the show... maybe more. Wish me luck!

The New New 52

2012-01-12T10:36:00.003-06:00

Or rather, The New 6.

DC is still committing to publishing 52 ongoing books so when "Wave 2" hits in May, they're going to cancel 6 books and replace them with new ones.

The books being canceled are, somewhat unsurprisingly, Men of War, Mister Terrific, OMAC, Hawk and Dove, Blackhawks, and Static Shock.

There's some bitter disappointment for me, seeing Static Shock on this list as I've been really pulling for this series to succeed and I was hoping that the addition of new writer Marc Bernardin would bring interest and sales up on the book. It's a shame that DC isn't even giving him that chance. Static's a character that should and can succeed. Hopefully it won't be too long before they give him another shot.

It's interesting that Hawk and Dove is getting the axe when it's actually still selling better than, say Captain Atom, which remains untouched. I'd happily let Captain Atom or Green Arrow take the fall, if it meant a repreive for Static.

So what's replacing these titles? More of the same, with maybe one big surprise.

First we've got the return of BATMAN INCORPORATED from Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham. DC is calling this a "fresh take" so I don't know if that means they've had to reboot/retool some things thanks to the compacted timeline of The New 52 or what.

Next, we have the long-teased EARTH 2 by James Robinson and Nicola Scott. Robinson could really use a win and EARTH 2 sounds as good a chance as any. Nicola Scott is brilliant and definitely raises the level of this series.

WORLDS FINEST is kind of an odd choice, featuring Huntress and Power Girl, trapped in "our world," trying to get back to their home in Earth 2. It's being written by Paul Levitz, who's currently penning the Huntress mini (which I guess now counts as a prelude) and drawn by the rotating art team of Kevin Maguire and George Perez.

The big surprise is DAIL H from novelist China Miéville and artist Mateus Santoluoco. I was a huuuuuge fan of when DC last tried to reboot the Dial H for Hero concept under writer Will Pfeifer and artist Kano. It's a fun concept with a lot of potential. Last time around they took it in a Twilight Zone meets 100 Bullets sort of direction. I'll be curious to see what they do with this.

G.I. COMBAT sees DC trying again to make the war comic work. In place of Men of War and Blackhawks, we get a bit of an anthlogy series split between THE WAR THAT TIME FORGOT by J.T. Krul and Ariel Olivetti, UNKNOWN SOLDIER by Justin Gray, Jimmy Palmiotti, and artist Dan Panosian and THE HAUNTED TANK with writer John Arcudi and artist Scott Kolins. If there was just a Haunted Tank book by Arcudi and Kolins, I'd be all over it. Otherwise, I'll pass.

Finally, we get THE RAVAGERS, a Teen Titans/Superboy spin-off which, like Titans, sees the return of two more 90's Marvel stalwarts, Howard Mackie and Ian Churchill. Just who the "four superpowered teens on the run" are meant to be is up in the air. I'll be surprised if it's Fairchild and her ilk because you'd think if they were going to put them in their own book, they'd go with the Gen 13 title people already know. But odds are, with the title, Rose Wilson will be among them.

After hearing so much talk and promise of Wave 2 I was expecting more. More books, more creators we've been waiting to hear from. Anytime someone would ask about this writer or that artist, DC would just reply "Wave 2." We already knew Robinson and Scott were accounted for in this wave (and that Batman Inc would return), but for the rest, we've got more from Krul and the Gray/Palmiotti team, Levitz spinning his Huntress into an ongoing and the only real surprises being China Miéville's DIAL H and the return of Howard Mackie, which is someone everyone speculated/joked about when all the 90's Marvel hires happened in Wave 1.

I'll give EARTH 2 a chance, if just for Nicola Scott, but also in the hopes that James Robinson can recapture that spark he once had; The prospect of Kevin Maguire drawing Huntress and Power Girl is mighty tempting but I don't know how interested I am in the characters being reverted back to their pre-Crisis status somewhat (and I didn't read Levitz's Huntress mini); I'm super curious about DIAL H and just mildly curious about RAVAGERS, just because I read and enjoy Titans and Superboy. The addition of EARTH 2, DIAL H, and RAVAGERS only makes up for the loss of Static and the fact that I dropped Firestorm and Nightwing.

So I guess we're breaking even again, DC.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of January 11, 2012

2012-01-10T17:37:00.004-06:00

Did everyone have themselves a safe and happy New Years? I sure did! Until I wound up in the Emergency Room last weekend with actue renal failure. I suspect it was some time-delayed attack by the villanous 2011 in an attempt to frame 2012 for my demise but you don't get away with it that easily, 2011!!

I YET LIVE and as long as I do so, I will probably continue to write these blog posts, highlighting my comic picks for the week. Let's get at those, shall we?

BATGIRL #5

You're still hanging in there, Batgirl, and for that I commend you.

BATMAN AND ROBIN #5

Between this and the equally excellent BATMAN, B&R is the one that has Robb and I tittering like tweens. Something about the perfect chemestry between writer Pete Tomasi and artist Patrick Gleason, makes the awkward chemistry between Batman and his psychotic lab-grown son that much more enjoyable. Plus, who doesn't like that age old light/dark, good/evil battle for the soul of the young pupil. JOIN MEEEEE...

BATWOMAN #5

IT BELONGS IN A MUSEUM.

BRILLIANT #2

Oh hey! Brilliant is still a thing. First issue had a pretty good hook to it but then it disappeared. How long until #3? Also, where's Powers and Scarlet? Does wrapping up Avengers, this year, mean we get more of these? Because that's fine.

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: SEASON 9 #5

Still being a pretty great Buffy comic.

CAPTAIN AMERICA #7

Gosh, you put Alan Davis on the book and suddenly these issues are just cranking out right and left.

FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #5

I don't read OMAC so I hope that this crossover issue isn't totally alienating or I will be pretty miffed, Mr. New 52.

GREEN LANTERN #5

Sinestro > Hal Jordan.

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #633

Oh my precious Kid Loki.

MEGA MAN REG CVR #9

I DEMAND PROTOMAN!

SECRET AVENGERS #21

The conclusion to Warren Ellis' really wonderful series of what serves as a reminder that you can do stand-alone/done-in-one stories while still having an overarching plot. Plus, seeing Ellis play with all these top artists has been a treat and there's been some real fun, experimental stuff here. This issue reunites Ellis with his Nextwave collaborator Stuart Immonen and it will be very sad to see this end but Remender and Hardman are a great team to pick things up.

SUPERBOY #5

Is Superboy fighting the Teen Titans yet?

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #677

Part 1 of the Spider-Man/Daredevil/Black Cat crossover by Mark Waid! Art by the super talented Emma Rios!

THE INCREDIBLE HULK #4

Still not entirely sure if this is for me but it's enjoyable.

THE NEW AVENGERS #20

Oh Osborn, you rascal.

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #6

Oh wait, another one of these already? Why did I let myself get so behind in reading over the holidays??

WOLVERINE #300

GAH!! I wanted to get caught up by now!! This won't do! I suppose I still have between tonight and tomorrow night to read, um... 10 issues? Hurm. Super excited for this reteaming of Jason Aaron and Adam Kubert plus Friend of Comicbook Crossfire, Steven Sanders and the introduction of a new Silver Samurai!

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #4

Jason Aaron triple-shot, but it's the mutant books I love most and this is the one I may love mostest of all. The Jean Grey School welcomes Nick Bradshaw to alternating art chores.

Cool Nerdy Gamery with DC Universe Online

2012-01-05T21:11:00.001-06:00

Phantom Protector (Jack), Red Rune (Robb), and Sully Hogan (Sean) fight over their date with Supergirl

Recently, friend of CBXF, Jack teamed up with Tracie, Sean, and myself on our new favorite addiction. DC Universe Online has taken tons of free time. But just some something creative comes of it, here are some screen shots that Jack too last night of Sean, Jack and myself playing. Enjoy!

Sully Hogan (Sean) Nice hat!

Lady Killer Phantom Protector

Robb's Semi Weekly Journal 01-04-12

2012-01-04T19:54:00.001-06:00

Sticking with my nerd journal and my resolution... of being more creative!

New Year’s week has been primarily DC Universe Online week. Good Ol’ PS3, me and some online buddies beating up bad guys. I finally reached 30th level, only to have the world crash and get knocked back to 27th. But Fear NOT! I’m back at 30th and busting heads in the virtual word. Some of the special villains I took on: Black Adam & Isis, Hush, and lastly the Overlord and Lex Luthor his self. I know, pretty nerdy. But playing until 3 am and listening to scratchy web voices over a headset has been a blast!

Over the week, I also got to see this year’s Doctor Who Christmas episode. You can never go wrong there. Makes me wish I was caught up on the most recent season… but Tracie was kind enough to lend me last year’s Dr. Who Christmas Episode and that quelled me a bit. Loved it by the way. The Christmas Carol theme was pure WHO! And the DVD extras of the Dr. Who Prom was hilarious. Matt Smith’s “live” interaction with the little boy at the concert was so endearing. How can you not love what Dr. Who stands for.

Netflix has made me become a fan of another show: Spaced. I'm flying through the episodes... But love it! Also Still doing "Sons of Anarchy, season 3". Who else is gonna die?

Tracie also gave me 2 trade paperbacks. One was Young Justice/Spyboy and the other was Superman/Tarzan. She had a Dark Horse/DC themed Christmas in mind for me. The YJ/SB trade was pure fun, but the Superman/Tarzan book was awesome and mind boggling. A weird Elseworlds take on Superman and the Greystroke legend combined. Along with great art, this was an awesome read. Thanks Tracie!

Today I got my DCBS and I flew through Justice League #4. And I'm sorry, but this book is great, Just damn fun. I can't wait to see where we go next. And lastly, my brother-in-law and I have decided to collaborate, artistically. I'm forcing myself to be artist and he is itching to make/direct a movie. So I've begun writing a short. I promise to post when it all comes together. (Even if it sucks!) Ok, well till next week.

Robb's Cover of the Month for December 2011

2012-01-04T19:42:00.000-06:00

It is the last "Cover of the Month" from 2011. And I swear this should be a tie. Both of these covers are incredible. They tell a story and make me want to read whats inside. Both artists are just running on all cylinders. But I'm leaning more towards Flash because of the creative imagery and unique power it is conveying. But let this take nothing away Jim Cheung. His cover is pure beauty as well.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of January 4, 2012

2012-01-03T18:08:00.004-06:00

It's the first New Comics Day of the year and I have contracted some sort of Y2K12 stomach bug. Here are the comics I'll be buying tomorrow, if I don't suddenly die:

ACTION COMICS #5

It's 2012 and Grant Morrison & Andy Kubert are here to give us all new origin of Superman! Just what we needed, maybe. I dunno. Action Comics has been pretty great so I don't really care what it is that they do.

ANIMAL MAN #5

Jeff Lemire Week 2012 Part 1.

AVENGERS: X-SANCTION #2 (OF 4)

Ed McGuinness, I will buy anything you draw. Even if I don't totally "get" it.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #6 (OF 12)

Valkyrie, kicking ass and taking hammers.

IRREDEEMABLE #33

Part 3 of the Irredeemable/Incorruptable crossover. Both books you should be reading.

STATIC SHOCK #5

Oh Static, I still like you. But I hope that the impending new writer brings in more readers and elevates this series.

SWAMP THING #5

I'm worried that the creepy decaying meat kid has gotten to me in real-life. *Urrp*

SWEET TOOTH #29

Jeff Lemire Week 2012 Part 2. New storyline! Good jumping-on point! Great book!

THE AVENGERS ANNUAL #1

And finally we get the conclusion of the Wonder Man/Revengers storyline.

THE DEFENDERS #2

Really dug the first issue. I'm onboard with this wacky team.

THE PUNISHER #7

What could make me love Greg Rucka's Punisher more? Oh, how about reteaming him with his Gotham Central artist Michael Lark and throw in a Daredevil guest-appearance. Yes, that'll do quite nicely.

THUNDERBOLTS #168

Hey, remember Luke Cage and the Thunderbolts who are still active in present times? Let's check in with them, shall we?

UNCANNY X-FORCE #19.1

Special point-one jumping on point, wherein we get the story that will spin off into David Lapham's upcomnig Age of Apocalypse ongoing series. So, good for new X-Force readers and readers looking to hitch a ride on AoA.

UNCANNY X-MEN #4

A one-shot drawn by Brandon Peterson and featuring The Phalanx. Are you excited, 90's Tracie?

See you next week.

The Lion King Rises

2012-01-02T16:20:00.001-06:00

Perfection.

(via The Mary Sue)

Robb's (Semi)Weekly Nerdy Journal

2011-12-30T15:27:00.000-06:00

My New Year’s Resolution was to be more creative and contribute better to the CBXF site. So I came up with this idea to sum up each week and what nerdy/geek related thing I did. I also see it as an easy way to rip off Tracy’s Pull list article. Double bonus! Take “that” you more talented, better liked, cooler nerdy girl!

This week is the one between New Years and Christmas. I got an email telling of my DCBS order of comic books being shipped, but I won’t get it until TUESDAY! So I hit my local favorite, Ground Zero and grabbed a few floppys! All Star Western # 4, Captain America #5 & 6, and Voodoo #4. Tracie is gonna smack me, but the Cap books were weaker in comparison. (ONE MAN’s OPINION... suck it Marvel Nerds!) Plus Voodoo is hands down drawn by my favorite new comer artist to the comic scene, Sam Basri. The pages are so Beautiful! Not saying the Cap issues were bad, just fell short, and not worth the wait considering McNiven didn’t even finish his ONE story arc. Alan Davis’ art was pretty on the new arc, though. Over all I was just happy to read some floppys!

I also hit Wal-Mart to pick up some groceries, when what do my eyes behold??? A SUPERMAN PEZ DESPENCER!!! Yes folks. No longer are Batman and Wonder Woman the flip back kings of DC Plastic candy distribution. The Man of Steel has join their ranks. Along with a New Hal Jordan and a new Batman bust, too! Maybe I’ll throw in a picture here.

Over X-mas I got an awesome Superman Shirt. I really think this shirt’s print has re-inspired me to work on my tattoo design. Maybe, just maybe... this will be the year I complete what was started over 10 years ago? Maybe? I also got the 4 piece DC hero, Target glass set from my Brother and his girlfriend. These are damn cool. I want a few more sets so my Superhero Bar can come to fruition.

Played a bit more DC Universe Online... and talked to Dr. Fate today. That dude sounds like he has a cold under that mystical helmet. Also 30th level villains who wait to pick off newbies are jerks. Just sayin.

Lastly, this week I came to the sad realization... The one thing I thought I preserved in my PC crash, was my comic book collection listing. I have entered my entire collection, once on an excel spread sheet, then again after I purchased the Collectorz.com software. Awesome program that saves images of the cover and price, etc. Well I thought that I had backed up that file. Turns out, it was only the shortcut to my file and that too was lost in the great PC crash of 2011. So yet again, for the 3rd time... Robb will enter his comic collection into a data base. (Insert at least 12 of your favorite cuss words here! I’ll start with HAM WEASEL!)

Well 2011 was overall a pretty decent year. I have a feeling big things are coming in 2012. So all of us at CBXF wish you and yours a safe and happy New Year! Stay tuned. More nerdy goodness is coming!

Robb

Robb's Year-End Review 2011

2011-12-28T19:44:00.001-06:00

So this was a crazy year for comics and all things nerdy. As a group, CBXF got new comics, went to a handful of conventions (even had our own booth at Contagion-Omaha), met some incredible creators, and watched the industry evolve. No one will deny the largest story was DC’s Reboot, but what else happened? Who died? Who came back? What movies rocked? What just stunk? 2011 was an incredible year. Besides the fact that JMS is a jerk, here’s what I took away from the first year of this new decade.

1. TV/Netflix: This damn pay site introduced me to a handful of great Sci-Fi and Comedy that I had been missing. Sean, Monty and Tracie had been talking Dr. Who for some time and my childhood memories tainted me in a negative direction for the Ol Doctor. It wasn’t until I accidently gave Torchwood a chance did I get netted into the Who trap. “Hey guys, I like this Torchwood show...” “Um Robb, Torchwood is a spin-off of Dr. Who?” “It is, crap?” The rest is history. Now I can’t get enough. This year I have watched and loved the last 4 seasons of Dr. Who and all of Torchwood. Even from time to time, pulling my skeptical wife in on an episode or too. Thanks Netflix! Other honorable Netflix’s mentions: Battlestar Gallactica, The League, Burn Notice, Earth Mightiest-The Avengers, Reboot, Sons of Anarchy, and Fanboy & Chum Chum. And a few others I’m sure I’m forgetting. Oh, We said good bye to Smallville. (Don the Cape!) And it went out with a whimper. As for regular TV, Big Bang and How I Met Your Mother, and Hell’s Kitchen seem to be regular staples. Ironically, no new shows have held me much. But I keep finding myself home and watching Tim Allen’s “Last Man Standing” (it’s ok... no really).
2. Hollywood - Superhero/Sci-fi movies. This year was a HUGE year for Marvel and an “Eh” year for DC when it came to the Big screen. The biggest winners: “Captain America, The First Avenger”, “Thor”, and the huge surprise, “X-men First Class”. And another surprise the “Rise of the Planet of Apes”. There are a few I’m still missing like “the Muppets” & “Cowboys & Aliens”, so I’m reserving judgment for them as yet. Some that fell short.. “Green Lantern”. With the exception of the Dark Knight/Chris Nolan movies... DC just can’t get a ball out of the infield. Marvel keeps hitting homers and DC is pop flying. But with next year’s trailers all hitting the scene, there is hope. Of course the Dark Knight Rises looks intense and we have hope for The Man of Steel, but Marvel isn’t backing off. Avengers & Amazing Spider-man, another Thor and Ironman? Let’s not forget we have “the Hobbit” coming, too. But all in all 2011 was great for movies and leaves us excited for 2012.
3. Animation: Here is a category DC seems to lead in, but Marvel is catching! The DC Direct to DVD movies are the like first kiss from the hottest cheerleader in High school! This last year produced 2 really great animated movies. All Star Superman and Batman Year One. DC also put out Green Lantern Emerald Knights... Good, but It feel short compared to the other releases. DC also finished up Batman: Brave and the Bold and started a new series Young Justice. Both are great shows! Marvel has been strong with Earth’s Mightiest and the Marvel’s Superhero Squad. Some other animation has made dents in me too. The Thundercats is an Awesome take on a classic 80’s cartoon, so is My Little Pony, Friendship is Magic. YES I’m serious. If you’ve not seen this cartoon, you must! I feel like Simpsons and Family Guy & Aquateen Hunger Force have really run their course and its difficult to enjoy the humor in them anymore, but I did love Bob’s Burgers, Metalocalypse, Venture Brothers, & Archer in the last year. Never count the Simpsons out, but this has been the longest dry spell for me in their 20+ year history.
4. Video Games: I’m no gamer... never really been one. Monty tried to get me into Neverwinter Nights and I liked it a lot, but it never stuck. This year, however I’ve played more than back in 80’s, where Monty and I used play TMNT at the Quik Shop and steal Playboys. This year has been mostly used games, but I’ve loved em. I’m always playing NCAA Football, a little Left 4 Dead, & I got Fallout 3 and loved it. My wife would even stay up late and watch me play and run from scavengers/ undead burn victims/ vampires/weird dogs/giants as I walked through Washington DC looking for food. I grew bored though and one weekend found Batman Arkham Asylum. 2 weeks of my life, GONE. I can only imagine how cool Arkham City is?! Monty then forced me to download an all but free version of “City of Heroes”. I spent an hour making a character and played with 3 dozen jerks who were on the same mission and knew the keyboard driven game wasn’t my speed. Then out of nowhere DC answered. Free to download and play, DC Universe Online dominated many many of my nights and helped me reconnect with an old buddy from Lincoln. Also Sean’s Poor wife was forced to listen to 3 grown men cuss and yell at a TV screen late into the night, like nerdy school girls talking on a teen line. Tracie and my little brother have been pulled into this trap as well, so there is no denying its entrapping power.
5. Comics: Superman walking, Wonder Woman with Pants, Drunk Ironman, Mogo Dead, Island full of Spiders, An incorporation of Batmen, Thor dead...kinda, Cross-over hell, oh and DC started over... kinda... AGAIN!
The Good: Secret Six went out in a blaze of Glory. Awesome complete book. Loved it! DC put together a handful of really great books in their relaunch:: Action Comics, Justice League, Aquaman, Wonder Woman, and Batman. A few Surprises with All Star Western, Swamp Thing & Animal Man. Marvel brought back Joe Madeuria and put him on a quality Spider-man book, FF gripped us and set up an awesome story leading to Johnny’s return, Fear Itself had some incredible moments as Tony Stark is torn down in character, Thor falls to a prophecy, and Captain America is armed with an attitude and a Shotgun.
The Bad: Why did DC partially Reboot? Really, I’m more confused than ever about timelines and such. I understood the need, just hated the execution. Wipe it clean or don’t do it DC. Also Flashpoint stunk... Set up was great. Middle was great! Ending was totally WTF? Like Geoff Johns had no idea this was going to be the story to reboot DC?
I know I’m forgetting a lot, but it’s been a long year and a lot has happened. My computer crashed and took many pictures and logos with it. Not to mention my record of my Comic book library and the Fantasy Comic book league. It’s been a slow build to re-set up those items and the site seems to have slowed down. BUT FEAR NOT, 2012 will be the year CBXF gets more of Robb’s attention. So look for more bad photoshopped images, poorly written and heavy typo-o’d stories and blurry pictures of expensive toys that no man of 30+ years should own. It’s been a great year and I hope you and yours have a Happy-Healthy-Nerdy New Year!
Robb

Tracie's Pull List - Week of December 28, 2011

2011-12-27T18:33:00.004-06:00

It's the last week of new comics in 2011!

Which means that since everyone has already made their Best of 2011 lists, none of these matter! Right? No. Un-right.

Let's take a look, shall we?

ANGEL & FAITH STEVE MORRIS CVR #5

I really have nothing new to say. 5 issues in and it is consistently great with excellent art by Rebekah Issacs.

AQUAMAN #4

Good job being badass, Aquaman.

AVENGERS: THE CHILDREN'S CRUSADE #8 (OF 9)

Eeeeeep, it's almost over! And it's great! And beautiful!

CAPTAIN AMERICA #5

CAPTAIN AMERICA #6

CAPTAIN AMERICA & BUCKY #625

THREE Cap books, all in one week. And two of them are from the same series. We get the conclusion of Steve McNiven's art, the start of Alan Davis as new regular Cap artist, and the start of Franco Francavilla's arc on Cap & Bucky! All things to look forward to.

DC COMICS PRESENTS: ELSEWORLDS 80 PAGE GIANT #1

It's the infamous Elseworlds 80 Page Giant that was originally recalled due to a Superbaby in a microwave gag. Really looking forward to finally reading this thing.

DOROTHY AND THE WIZARD IN OZ #4 (OF 8)

Consistently lovely.

FF #13

Unsurprisingly, some folks don't like Juan Bobillo's very stylized art. I, however, do. Though it would help if the coloring was more consistent.

INCORRUPTIBLE #25

More origins!

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #4

This book holds on by virtue of Deadman, who has somehow become my favorite character of The New 52.

SECRET AVENGERS #20

Alex Maleev teams up with Warren Ellis to bring us a Black Widow tale.

TEEN TITANS #4

Teen Titans, you continue to be a curiosity.

THE FLASH #4

The Flash continues to be just plum fantastic comicbook storytelling.

THE FURY OF FIRESTORM: THE NUCLEAR MEN #4

Oh, but Firestorm... I may be over you. I just can't seem to find it in my heart to care what happens next. I know you have a new writer coming aboard and that Van Sciver is drawing a couple issues soon, but... I just don't really need to read comics I don't care about, do I? Even when I care about the people who make them? It's a tough choice.

THE MIGHTY THOR #9

There's no question of whether to buy Fraction & Ferry's Thor, though.

ULTIMATE COMICS THE ULTIMATES #5

The inclusion of Spider-Woman may be my favorite thing about Hickman's Ultimates.

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #5

I really dig the little twists Spencer is putting on the Ultimate X-Men.

UNCANNY X-MEN #3

Finally, Kieron Gillen just makes everything wonderful.

See you in 2012, y'all!

Holiday Superheroes!

2011-12-24T10:45:00.000-06:00

Tracie's Pull List - Week of December 21, 2011

2011-12-20T13:55:00.005-06:00

We're down to just 5 days before Christmas but if you're still looking for some last minute gifts for your favorite nerd, maybe I can help steer you through this week's comic selection...

BATMAN #4

OWLS.

BIRDS OF PREY #4

BATGIRL JOINS. This will make for some very curious continuity indeed.

DAREDEVIL #7

Just read it and thank me later.

DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #4

I guess it's the sign of a job well done when I become sad that this story is wrapping and I wish this were a Deadman ongoing. For reals.

FANTASTIC FOUR #601

Did you read #600? Go. Do that. Be reminded about how great Hickman's FF is.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #5 (OF 12)

Still totally digging this Valkyrie vs. Sin (and the Marvel Universe) series.

GENERATION HOPE #14

Not entirely sold on the new team but last issue had its moments. WE SHALL SEE.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #4

Aquaman joins the fray! Is... is this it, then? Is this the team? Are we still waiting on somebody? Who shows up on the final page splash in this one?

NEW MUTANTS #35

BLINK!

NIGHTWING #4

Nightwing, this may be your last chance. I almost didn't even bother with this issue but then I remembered that Gates of Gotham's Trevor McCarthy is doing the art this issue, so this is your moment to shine. It's not a bad series, I just don't really find myself caring about what's going on. This issue promises "answers" so maybe that'll do me.

STUFF OF LEGEND JESTERS TALE #3 (OF 4)

Such a beautiful, magical little series.

SUPERGIRL #4

Man alive, I love Asrir's art.

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS VOL 2 #2 (OF 6)

It's back and off to a great start!

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #676

The return of Humberto Ramos aaaaaaand The Sinister Six!!!

THE AVENGERS #20

Daniel Acuna, feel free to draw Avengers forever.

THE INCREDIBLE HULK #3

I love Jason Aaron for his big ideas and character work but I don't know if that's clicking with me on Hulk just yet.

THE INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #511

So good to have Fraction's Iron Man back on top.

THUNDERBOLTS #167

Quasi-reformed supervillains traveling through time!!!

TINY TITANS #47

Guilty pleasure of cuteness.

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #5

MIIIIIIILES! I LOVE YOU, MILES!!!

UNCANNY X-FORCE #19

Holy hot dang, X-Force #18 was a total gutpunch and I adored it. What a consistently surprising series. You all better get in on this.

WOLVERINE #20

I'M NOT CAUGHT UP BUT I'M GETTING THERE. (just as I get wind that Jason Aaron is leaving the book next year...)

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #3

OH HELLO FAVORITE X-BOOK, YOU'VE COME BACK TO ME. X-Force is really not happy that you've taken its spot, though.

WONDER WOMAN #4

Wonder Woman will just walk right up and deck you without saying a word.

So, that new Dark Knight Rises trailer...

2011-12-19T19:57:00.003-06:00

Okay. So. This is a screengrab I made from the new Dark Knight Rises trailer. The "R" in the word "ROGUES"?

That has to be on purpose, right?

Superhero Breast Exam

2011-12-18T21:12:00.002-06:00

I had to read it to believe it. But yes, its for a good cause. To read more...

Friendly Fire:20

2011-12-16T02:21:00.001-06:00

Tracie's Pull List - Week of December 14, 2011

2011-12-13T09:43:00.006-06:00

It's the 12th Day of Christmas! People with drums doing drum things! So far I've been able to do 98% of my Christmas shopping online but I really better make sure I've got everything taken care of now that the big day is getting incredibly close.

Also, I need to find some way of spending Christmas in a household that has BBC America. Or just go door-to-door in my grandparent's neighborhood looking for Whovians. If I activate my sonic screwdriver, they'll be able sense it, right?

Good thing Monty has DVR and has forgotten how much he hates me over the DCUO thing. Good ol' handsome, forgiving, beloved Monty.

HEY there are comics out tomorrow! Let's talk about them.

AVENGERS: X-SANCTION #1 (OF 4)

Even before this was being touted as the opening salvo of the big, universe altering Avengers Vs. X-Men event hitting next year, I was excited just because it was going to be Ed McGuinness drawing Cable throwing down with a bunch of Avengers and there's no way that's not going to be a pretty good time. Oh. Right. And Cable's back. Which I think means all the Messiah Complex deaths are now undone...sort of.

BATGIRL #4

Oh, Batgirl, you are still hanging in there by the strength of my curiosity. #7 is supposed to specifically reference Killing Joke and the events thereafter so I feel I should hang on 'til then. Boy does that sound like the wrong reason to buy a comic.

BATMAN AND ROBIN #4

NO QUALMS HERE, however. Tomasi and Gleason are delighting the heck out of me with kinetic fights and father-son angst.

BATWOMAN #4

FLAMEBIIIIIRRRRD!!!! (so pretty)

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: SEASON 9 #4

Season 9, still going VERY strong. Makes this Whedonite happy.

FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #4

I dig this a little more with each issue but I'm wondering if the only thing keeping this from REALLY hitting the mark is if it had some quirkier art. If they could steal Juan Bobillo from FF...

GREEN LANTERN #4

Green Lantern, you are an entertaining comic when you are not constantly embroiled in wars.

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #632

EVERYONE! YOU NEED TO BE READING JIM! It is one of the very best written comics Marvel has Teen Loki is, without a doubt, the character find of the year.

MARVEL HOLIDAY SPECIAL 2011

I am a totally sucker for the Marvel and DC holiday specials, unless, upon flip-though, the art appears to be overwhelmingly atrocious. (or worse, boring) They're always a crap-shoot, story-wise, but I can't help but love me some Christmas specials.

S.H.I.E.L.D. #4 (OF 6)

OH NO, I kind of forgot this was still going on. Despite the fact that Hickman is still smartly referencing it in his other books.

SUPERBOY #4

The thing we already knew about that one character is true!

THE NEW AVENGERS #19

Are they the New Dark Avengers or the Dark New Avengers? I prefer the latter. Also, dang good "forming of the team" stuff, last issue.

THE WALKING DEAD, VOL 15 TP

I am a trades-only reader of The Walking Dead and it occurs to me that this may be the first volume of the trades I've read since the AMC series started. I wonder whether it will change how I read them now that I have specific character voices in my head.

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #4

Definitely what "X-Men, as written by the creator of Morning Glories" would read like. Good stuff.

UNCANNY X-FORCE #18

THIS IS IT. The conclusion of The Dark Angel Saga. Things do not look good for X-Force or the AoA's Amazing X-Men.

New Trailer for GI Joe: Retaliation

2011-12-12T20:32:00.000-06:00

Really? This looks very cool. Nice concept. And Cobra Commander seems a bit more true to character. I may just see this in the theatre.
 Really?

OCW Obscure Character of the Week: DC's Waverider

2011-12-12T20:17:00.000-06:00

Waverider is the first "new" character DC introduced to me. It was my first DC crossover, where the future is ruled by a mysterious hero gone rogue and taken over. Bouncing from hero to hero trying to learn who the real villain was. After teaming with the other heroes, Waverider then became a another member of the Linear Men. He may not be too obscure, but most don't recall this time traveler. To learn more about him, check out this link.

Where's Bizarro?

2011-12-11T14:27:00.001-06:00

Robb's Nerdy Loot

2011-12-11T11:46:00.001-06:00

With the Black Friday sales over, I meant to post my loot. This year I cut waay back. There is a recession in our house too, folks. But I got some great cheap stuff and I kinda wanted to show it off. First, I finally got that Cyborg (Flashpoint) Figure I'm been eyeballing. That toy just has an awesome sculpt. Then I came across a couple of anime inspired DC Heroines. Wonder Woman and Supergirl. I was indifferent towards WW at first, but the sword and the way she stands has really grown on me. Both are really cool figures. Lastly, I struck nerd gold with my last find. A Superman Glass... with a Cape! No Kidding! This is so dumb, its awesome. They had a Batman one too, but recession. Anyway. Enjoy the pictures of my nerdy goodness!

Once you go metal... (make your own joke)

Robb's Cover of the Month: December

2011-12-10T10:20:00.000-06:00

This month favorite cover was much easier... because to be honest, there were a lot of "Ho-Hum" covers this month. But out of the books I purchased, these 2 stood out. (For Obvious Reasons) Avenging Spider-man if just cartoony Fun. Joe Mad doing what we love, dynamic top tier Marvel Characters in action poses. As for the runner up... It just a damn beautiful, non-Alex Ross Painted Thor. I loved this cover. I think this is also my first Non-DC month for favorite covers. Hmmm?

Issue 33: Happy Holidays

2011-12-07T09:48:00.000-06:00

Tracie's Pull List - Week of December 7, 2011

2011-12-06T09:16:00.005-06:00

I generally like to throw some other-media rambling into these post before I get into the comic releases for this week, but there's not a lot I can think to talk about, off the top of my head.

There's an Extended Cut of Cowboys & Aliens out this week. I know it didn't light box office results on fire and the critics and audiences were pretty ambivalent but Caleb and I liked it quite a lot. It's a fun, traditional western with a sci-fi bend and it's got James Bond, Indiana Jones, Justin Hammer, and the creepy kid from There Will Be Blood. (or, my preferred reference, the mute kid from Little Miss Sunshine)

Red Box it, or something. You might maybe enjoy yourself.

OH--and I imagine he'll be writing a post of his own on the subject but just to give y'alls a little teaser, Robb is a drug peddler for MMORPGs and Monty is going to hate us both. (or hate us MORE)

ACTION COMICS #4

BLUE JEAN SUPERMAN FOREVAAAAHHHHHH!!!! I met a retailer, last weekend, who was surprised to learn I dug the blue jean look. He preferred and maybe even liked the armored Superman running around in the other books. He was very polite about how wrong he was. (oh, and hey, Steel gets a back-up strip starting this issue!)

ANIMAL MAN #4

It's Lemire Day part 1! Who knew being so unsettled would be so fun.

AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #2

JOE IS BACK! A SECOND ISSUE ALREADY! IT'S A REAL TRUE THING!

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #4 (OF 12)

Valkyrie and Namor versus sea monsters!

IRREDEEMABLE #32

The Irredeemable/Incorruptible crossover begins!! Origins stories for Max Damage and The Plutonian!

MEGA MAN #8

I love you, Mega Man.

MOON KNIGHT #8

Moon Knight's ex is not pleased with his crappy TV show!

STATIC SHOCK #4

It's okay, Static. I still like you.

SWAMP THING #4

Double-dose of unsettling comics! The Red and The Green are just creepy, y'all.

SWEET TOOTH #28

Lemire Day part 2! The history of the plague!

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #675

Spider-Man versus the original Vulture!

THE DEFENDERS #1

All new series by Matt Fraction and Terry Dodson, spinning out of Fear Itself. But the important thing to know about this book is that it's Doctor Strange, Iron Fist, Namor, Ant-Man, Silver Surfer, and She-Rulk teaming up to save the universe. Matt and Terry's Doc Strange story in the massive Point One one-shot has me really pumped for this series. Strange is a character I really want to love but it's been since Brian K. Vaughan's "Oath" mini that he's really clicked. Matt's short story felt like it hearkened back to that feeling.

THE PUNISHER #6

This is really just about the absolute perfect Punisher book you could make, for my sensibilities.

SNL Batman

2011-12-04T07:57:00.000-06:00

Dr. G Steps up with: "El Esqueleto: The Skeleton"

2011-12-01T17:54:00.001-06:00

Our very own DR. Geektarded has been busy. And its been worth the wait! "El Esqueleto: The Skeleton" Issue 1, is out...And its been worth the wait. Check out his first web issues here. Nice Job Dr. G!

Tracie's Pull List - Week of November 30, 2011

2011-11-29T08:50:00.004-06:00

Ah, man... Gotta love 5th weeks, right?

DC (and occasionally Marvel) used to schedule mini-series events to take place during 5th weeks, as they create a gap in the typical 4-week release schedule. My favorite example of which followed the Marvel vs. DC crossover event in 1996 when, towards the end of that epic clash (your miles may vary), the two universes were combined into an Amalgam Comics universe and Marvel and DC co-produced a line of all new #1 issues of merged characters like Legends of the Dark Claw, Super Soldier, and JLX. This all happened before the cynicism of old age began to put its claws into me and having all of Marvel and DC's comics replaced with these new combinations for a week was terribly exciting for me and I was all over it, convincing my little brother to buy all the titles that I couldn't afford with my allowance as well as attempting to collect the Amalgam trading cards while both they and my DC vs. Marvel sets remain incomplete.

Le sigh.

THIS fifth week, however, brings us absolutely nothing. This is a light-ass week by Tracie standards so lord knows if the rest of CBXF even have a single book they're waiting on, this week. I think Monty will be pleased to learn there's a new Skullkickers out on Wednesday but gosh, that might just be it for him.

Due to the rigid structuring of The New 52, DC really only has two books out this week and that's because they exist outside of that publishing plan. Marvel's got a bit more thanks to some books double-shipping this month and Dark Horse slides one in just because those Whedon books seem like they're always fighting to stay on schedule.

It's no matter for me, as I've got a stack of Jason Aaron Wolverine trades I need to tear into, as well as the chance to finally read Morrison & McKean's Arkham Asylum, but if you're looking to try something new this extremely light week, maybe I can help you out.

ANGEL & FAITH #4

Both Buffyverse books have been rolling on quite strong but Angel & Faith is the real surprise for me. Rebekah Issacs art is phenominal (which I knew, but this is the best I've seen) and I wasn't sure how well Christos Gage's writing would fit into the style of the shows but it's really quite perfect and the series works as it's own thing, though I'm sure it'll line-up with Buffy eventually.

DAREDEVIL #6

Alright, guys, this is your chance! You know how everybody's been telling you how great the new Daredevil is? Here's a week with almost nothing else to read so check it out, why don't you! Heck, you might want to read it in your car before you pull away from the shop because once you've finished, you're going to want to go back inside and buy the first 5 issues.

FF #12

Fantastic Four #600 threw down the hammer and now we turn our attention to the kids of the Future Foundation as the two tales separate into their own books. I think this is for the best because Hickman clearly has a LOT of story to tell and I don't think the one book was enough, as most clearly evident in the monster-sized #600 which was jam packed with story, all of it important, with no fill-ins or reprints or whatnot. Hickman has a lot to say with the Fantastic Four and the Future Foundation.

T.H.U.N.D.E.R. AGENTS, VOL. 2 #1 (OF 6)

THUNDER AGENTS IS BACK!!! My favorite Nick Spencer comic, after Morning Glories, returns with a new volume, new artist, and special clause in his Marvel exclusive contract to allow him to finish the tale he started at DC. That's kind of incredible to me and shows how much he cares about his work and it's remarkable that DC would let him see it through. Highly recommended if you like darker superhero stuff like Irredeemable without it being tied to a larger universe/continuity.

THUNDERBOLTS #166

The Thunderbolts B-team continues to be lost in history and this time they could be to blame for Jack the Ripper! Thunderbolts does superhero (or, rather, villain) comics the way they should be done. If you're not having fun reading your comics, you are probably reading the wrong comics.

TINY TITANS #46

The Mysterious Woman In Purple (or whatever we're calling her) shows up in Tiny Titans!

ULTIMATE COMICS THE ULTIMATES #4

Interesting superhero world politics being set up by Jonathan Hickman, here.

UNCANNY X-MEN #2

The Best Time To Read X-Men Comics continues here! A classic X-Men villain is back and he's dressing fancy!

WOLVERINE #19

Boy once I get caught up on these Jason Aaron Wolverine trades, I can dive into this team-up between Wolverine and the Agents of Atlas's Gorilla Man and that'll be a good time.

OCW Obscure Character of the Week - Rip Roar

2011-11-27T19:04:00.001-06:00

The four armed juggernaut whose rival was Kalibak from the New Gods. Opposing Darkseid, he stole a Super-Cycle and eventually ended up entombed in the side of an Earth mountain. Until freed accidentally by Young Justice. To learn more about this former New God, click here.

Where is Magneto?

2011-11-27T18:35:00.001-06:00

Can you find the Master of Magnetism?

Friendly Fire Episode 19

2011-11-24T19:05:00.000-06:00

Tracie's Pull List - Week of November 23, 2011

2011-11-22T12:03:00.004-06:00

I don't really have any miscellany to rant/rave about this week unless I wanted to stress how ABSOLUTELY FLIPPING EXCITED I am for The Muppets opening this week. I plan to drag my family to see it with me on Thanksgiving. You should do likewise. Fill your soul after you fill your stomach.

Please do have a wonderful Thanksgiving or whatever you find yourself doing this week and let's take a look at my pre-holiday comics load:

AQUAMAN #3

Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis are daring you to like Aquaman and they are winning!

CAPTAIN AMERICA AND BUCKY #624

Winter Soldier and Black Widow in the 1950's! Last issue from brilliant artist Chris Samnee and co-writer Marc (Manhunter) Andreyko. My favorite of the two Cap books.

FANTASTIC FOUR #600

HEY, the Fantastic Four are back! And so is their numbering! This issue is extra special, not just because it blows the lid off a bunch of the storylines Hickman has been building to but because my friend (and Loneliest Astronauts artist) Ming Doyle is drawing a Black Bolt story in this issue. PRETTY PSYCHED.

INCORRUPTIBLE #24

Mark Waid is a bad man for making me cheer for such a terrible person.

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #3

I'm digging it. I can't say as I'm totally sold just yet but I'm digging it.

SECRET AVENGERS #19

Warren Ellis telling great done-in-one stories with some of the best artists in comics is a great format and this issue brings in Gotham Central and Daredevil artist Michael Lark.

TEEN TITANS #3

I like that Teen Titans is starting to feel like what Scott Lobdell comics used to feel like. It's fun in that regard. Takes me back.

THE FLASH #3

YOU GUYS, this is the best The Flash has been in FOREVER. (or a really long time) Francis Manapul is KILLING IT. "KILLING IT" IS GOOD NOW.

THE FURY OF FIRESTORM: THE NUCLEAR MEN #3

Firestorm is still on probation with me (as are many of the New 52) but it has potential.

THE INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #510

As I've said, Iron Man (the comic, not the character) has benefited the most from Fear Itself and I'm super excited to read the fallout of all of the terrible things Tony & Co. have been through.

THE MIGHTY THOR #8

Thor? Thor who?

ULTIMATE COMICS HAWKEYE #4 (OF 4)

Nice supplemental to The Ultimates but I'm not totally sure it was necessary. (though maybe the finale will answer that)

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #2

YESSSSS. MY NEW FAVORITE X-BOOK. (sorry, Kieron) It is everything I would want from an X-Men comic. It is funny and touching and weird and a mix of familiar and new and Jason Aaron and Chris Bachalo make a superb team. It makes this life-long X-fan's heart sing. (Kieron's Uncanny X-Men is really great too, it just doesn't have Bachalo... or the Wolvie/Kitty combo)

My Favorite Phone App for comics!

2011-11-20T18:51:00.001-06:00

I've seen the ads, I tried the trial runs. And I'm here to tell you... This website/App is incredible.

What is it called? Collectorz.com.

I saw links to this program on DCComics, Newsarama, and SupermanHomepage.com. So I did the trial run and next thing I know, I'm paying the 30 bucks and downloading the full version. But there is more. An App to read your entire collection on your phone and a separate app to turn your phone into a barcode scanner to input your collection.

I had a nice set up using Excel, but it didn't come with Photos of the cover, a list of characters in the book, prices, a picture of the back cover, and a place to rate the book and write personal notes. It took me about a year and a half to enter my collection into Excel, it took a month to put it in Collectorz. Ok, I've gushed enough about this program. If you'd like to learn more or try the trial version... check out this link. And here is another link about the scanner.

I highly recommend!

OCW - Obscure Character of the Week: Marvel's Piranha

2011-11-20T17:39:00.001-06:00

Yup! Obscure... Look at the fishy villain here.

Its time to get things started...

2011-11-18T08:20:00.001-06:00

Call me cheezy... but I know others at CBXF will have my back on this... I'm so pumped for the Muppets! I have watched many teasers and trailers and seen a handful of Interviews. Listened to Jason Segal gush over his role in bringing this newest movie to the big screen. It really takes me back!

Now The Muppets take Manhattan, Christmas Carol, Muppets in Space, Muppet Treasure Island and so on, were all great. But I think I grew out of the Muppets pretty quick. I discovered GI Joe, He-man and Star Wars and puppets seemed juvenile. But here is the key. I liked watching the Muppet show with my dad. We saw the first two movies in the theatre together and that silliness was a staple of my relationship with my father. I never had that connection to the Muppets in recent years.

This new movie seems special. Not since the Great Muppet Caper or the Muppet Movie have I felt this connection and excitement to see goofy voiced puppets doing silly antics, having adult jokes, and throwing in huge Hollywood cameos. Maybe on my next visit to Kansas City, we can see the Kermit and company take on Hollywood again.

I can't wait!

DC Nation on Cartoon Network in 2012

2011-11-15T18:35:00.006-06:00

You may have caught the promo for DC Nation during the Green Lantern premiere last week or all over the internets. If not, here:

This is a pretty exciting little thing because, not only does it feature and impressively varied array of DC Universe animated shorts, but it also ventures to put the comics out there a lot more publicly by featuring comic news and interviews with creators and the like. That's cool you guys.

And the shorts are already blowing me away. Aardman does a Creature Comforts-style Batman short? Doom Patrol gets animated, the Teen Titans return (in chibi form), some crazy dude puts a Batman sticker on his car, and--WAIT, WHAT? AMETHYST???

There is a freaking Amethyst short coming to DC Nation.

You can check out more at the animator's blog.

What I don't see a preview of is the Super Best Friends Forever shorts from My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic creator Lauren Faust. (she's also co-creator of Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends, if that carries more weight with you)

I'm crazy excited for all of this. I love that they're willing to be weird and obscure with these. Well done, DC. Well done.

Now if only I felt like I could recommend more of their comics to the kids who'll be watching these.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of November 16, 2011

2011-11-15T10:56:00.004-06:00

Comics that don't make money are being canceled!

Some guy might make a movie about a thing we love but we might hate it maybe!

Frank Miller said something crazy!

It's just another day on The Internet.

Let's talk about what I want to read tomorrow:

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #674

Spider-Island was a total blast, left great ramifications with the characters, and probably had a more satisfying ending than any of the other crossovers running at the same time. And now we're back to Spidey basics with the return of the original Vulture! I wonder if Punisher will get a mention.

AVENGERS #19

I love Daniel Acuna. So much. And I love that this book feels like it's fun again. And who doesn't love an Avengers team-building issue?

BATMAN #3

Capullo is making believers out of all of you, isn't he? Hot dang.

BIRDS OF PREY #3

I like it. I don't love it, but I like it. Now that the team is pretty much assmbled (yes?) we'll see how this feels.

CAPTAIN AMERICA #4

Steve McNiven draws so purdy. Cap & Bucky is totally my favorite Cap book, though.

DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #3

Jenkins and Chang are doing a heck of a Deadman story here, guys. Really bucking expectations.

FEAR ITSELF #7.3

And here we have the final-final issue of Fear Itself, wherein Tony Stark confronts Odin one last time. And he probably won't toast to him, either.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #3 (OF 12)

Well, I meant it was the final issue of the main Fear Itself story. The Fearless is just picking up the pieces. (and by pieces, I mean hammers) but I find my enjoyment of it really hinges on the fact that in my head, this is a 12 issue Valkyrie series by the guy who writes The Sixth Gun and that makes it pretty awesome.

GENERATION HOPE #13

First issue of the new creative team! Asmus has a LOT to live up to. Gillen created a remarkable level of excellence on these series and really defined these characters so I hope that Asmus can run with them in a simliar fashion. Again, I did enjoy his Hope-starring "Escape From the Negative Zone" story, so he's got that in his favor.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #3

Last issue hit much more of a sweet spot with me than the first issue did and with Wonder Woman apparently joining the fray, I look forward to this issue hitting even harder.

NEW MUTANTS #34

I was wavering on this book a little bit but this storyline is the New Mutants hunting Blink and that pretty much guarantees my attention for the next 5 or 6 issues.

NIGHTWING #3

CBXF's Robb Blum does not think Dick Grayson should be having teh sex on a private jet with an attractive, grown woman, whom he was friends with in his circus past. Feel free to tell him how wrong he is. He's still nowhere near the slut Bruce Wayne is in the New 52.

SUPERGIRL #3

Reeeeeeeally digging this book, in spite of crotch diamond.

THE INCREDIBLE HULK #2

Two words: HULK SHARKS.

THE PUNISHER #5

Frank Castle WILL. NOT. STOP. Hot dang, Rucka, you have me cheering on The Punisher.

THUNDERBOLTS #165

The Thunderbolts who used by be lead/controlled by Baron Zemo have traveled to the 40's where they are confronted by Baron Zemo. Except they have WWII Captain America and Namor on their side. Thunderbolts is a Marvel Comic that just constantly gives you high fives.

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #3

Nick Spencer is definitely proving to be the fresh, relevant voice this comic needed.

WONDER WOMAN #3

THE SECRED ORIGIN OF WONDER WOMAN. And HOT DANG, CLIFF CHIANG. Thank you.

Robb's Grade Card for DC's Number 2s

2011-11-14T18:09:00.001-06:00

I'm not going into as much depth... but since I got all the number 2... here is how they measured up. Don't worry... I won't be getting all the number 3s. Keep reading and see why.

1. Justice League #2: Much Better! Tracie & I agreed, if issue 1&2 had been combined into a single issue, I think I would have been happier. Its turning into a good intro story, but the waiting is turning out to be harder. I'm happy with this book and where its going. Grade A-

2. Animal Man #2: Holding steady. Great read. Very Vertigo-ey. Grade A-

3. Batgirl #2: Just not working for me.I want to like this, just isn't my Batgirl. Sorry Gail. Grade C+

4. Batwing #2: Despite me giving a good grade, this just doesn't hold me. I think its a great book, but I find that I didn't care enough to want to keep reading. Grade B

5. Detective Comics #2: Better than issue one, but not by much. Does Batman have to have casual sex in every title? I can't wait for Robin to walk in on Bruce and Poison Ivy in Batman and Robin. Grade D

6. Action Comics #2: No surprise, loved this book and issue 3 was just as good. Grade A+

7. Swamp Thing #2: I think i'm hooked. I like this Swamp Thing book. Grade A-

8. Stormwatch #2: Eh, I forgot what happened. Grade D+

9. Justice League International #2: I thought this got better than issue one. Not a lot better, but better. Grade C+

10. Red Lanterns #2: Still a decent book, but feels like a mini series in the making, not a full series. Grade B

11. Batwoman #2: I liked this better than issue one. A strong, showing. One of the better Bat-books. Grade B+

12. Wonder Woman #2: Holding up and really pulling me in. Can't help but love this book. Grade A-

13. Resurrection Man #2: Better... Better. Grade B-

14. Red Hood #2: Whatever. God this line up had such potential. I so wanted this to be cool. It wasn't Grade D+

15. Blue Beetle #2: Again, Better. Don't think I'll around for issue 3, though. Grade B-

16. Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #2: Eh, not for me. Like the art, but just don't see me following this. Grade C

17. Mister Terrific #2: Nope... You killed all about him I liked. Who cares? Not me. Big disappointment. Grade D-

18.Teen Titans #2: YES, nice recovery. I was super scared this was going to be Tim Drake, agent of "fill in the blank". I'm glad I was wrong. Much much better feel in issue number 2. You got me back TT! Grade B+

19. Nightwing #2: This fell a bit. Not a lot, but I'm worried! Its on a short leash with me, but I love Nightwing. I'll ride a bit longer. Grade C+

20. Green Lantern The New Guardians #2: Nice, like this book! Grade B+

21. Captain Atom #2: You know, the art is nice. Grade C-

22. Batman The Dark Knight #2: Tracie dissagrees, but I like this book. I don't love it, buts better than Detective. Grade C+

23. Superman #2: Yeah... I liked this more. Ok, I'm intrigued. What else ya got Superman? Grade B-.

24. The Savage Hawkman #2: And just like that, confused and bored. Skip. Grade C-

25. Hawk & Dove #2: A must read... to understand my disgust. Grade D-

26. Green Lantern Corps 2: Yes, good book. Grade A-

27. Justice League Dark #2: Not clicking with me. Don't know why, not working. Grade C+

28. Legion of Super-Heroes #2 Not working either. Grade C

29. Blackhawks #2: Yo Joe! Its ok. Grade C+

30. Green Arrow#2: Ugh! Grade C-

31. Green Lantern #1: Staying good, not too much alien cross over crap. I'm happy. Grade A-

32. Demon Knights #2: Not my book. Grade C-

33. Aquaman#2: I so like this. I look forward to this more than most other DC titles. Grade A+

34. Birds of Prey #2: Eh... Its did nothing for me. Grade C

35. Supergirl #2: Yeah, again, better than number one. I'm happy. Grade B

36. Men of War #2: Awesome Cover again. Not into this military feel, but... Nice book. Grade B-

37. Deathstroke #2: Blah, skip it! Grade D

38. Superboy #2: Not as good as the previous, but its still very solid. Good series! Grade B

39. Grifter #2: Sadly this slipped too. Grade C+

40. Catwoman #2: Why? Grade D+

41. Flash #2: Francis Manapul is killing it on this book! Really, really good. Grade A

42. Batman And Robin #2: The 2nd best bat book. I love Damien and Bruce. Grade A-

43. Legion Lost #2: Confusing... still. I'm dropping. Grade C-

44. Voo Doo #2: Still holding my interest. Solid fun, weird book. I wish I knew what it was, but I enjoy this book. Grade B

45. OMAC #2: I did my duty and liked it for "Kirby" reasons, I'll never buy another issue though. Grade C

46. DC Universe Presents: Deadman 2: Awesome Deadman story. Great Book! Grade A

47. Suicide Squad #2: Nope... still not Secret Six. Grade C-

48. Batman #2: Great Book! Top 3 DC title. Grade A

49. I Vampire #2: Slipped from issue 1, but still ok. Grade B-

50. The Fury of Firestorm The Nuclear Men #2: I liked this mush less than issue one. Im kinda confused and annoyed with how different this is from Pre-Flashpoint Firestorm. I'll stick it out a bit longer. Grade B-

51. Static Shock #2: I'm just not feeling this book either. Grade C

52. All Star Western #2: AN EXCELLENT BOOK. Loved it! Grade A+

Final Thoughts: I find I'm buying about the same number of issues once this is all said and done. I know I'm not who DC was aiming at with this relaunch. But I feel its done some damage with me. Some of these books are better and some aren't. But I'm still a hard core DC nut. I'll be curious to see where they are in 6 months.

OCW - Obscure Character of the Week: Kelex

2011-11-13T17:11:00.000-06:00

Introduced during John Byrne's run on the revamped Superman. Kelex was a floating, E.T. shaped, assistant robot on the planet Krypton. I have always loved this design! I fear we will no longer see the Fortress' keeper in this new continuity... but if you'd like to learn more about Kelex. Check out this link.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of November 9, 2011

2011-11-08T09:56:00.003-06:00

NOTHING ELSE MATTERS BECAUSE AVENGING SPIDER-MAN IS OUT TOMORROW.

WHY WONT OUR BLOG TEMPLATE ALLOW ME TO MAKE THIS AN ANNOYINGLY LARGE FONT SIZE???

OH WELL, LET'S JUST TALK ABOUT AVENGING SPIDER-MAN AND ALSO OTHER COMICS I GUESS.

AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #1

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! For those who don't know me that well, I count Joe Madureira as my favorite comic artist of all time. His 1994-1997 run on Uncanny X-Men (plus the 1993 Deadpool mini-series) changed me, both as a comics fan and as an artist. (actually, it was the placemat he did for Pizza Hut's X-Men promotion that first got my attention) As the story goes, when Joe ended his X-Men run, he and Jeph Loeb pitched a stand-alone, continuity-free Spider-Man series to Marvel which they turned down, prompting Joe to leave Marvel and co-found Cliffhanger with his creator-owned series, Battle Chasers, leaving that a couple years later to design videogames. Allegedly, if the Spider-Man series had been picked up, he would have never left Marvel. Well, now, here we are, it's nearing 2012, and Joe Madureira is drawing a stand-alone Spider-Man series (or thinly veiled Marvel Team-Up series) with one of my favorite writers, Zeb Wells. To say this is something I am looking forward to is underselling it by a lot. One of his last issues of Uncanny X-Men was a stand-alone story of Spider-Man teaming up with Marrow and it was basically, "We're turning Uncanny X-Men into a Spider-Man comic for a month" and is maybe my favorite issue of his entire run. The guy draws a helluva Spidey, a helluva Peter Parker, and a helluva J. Jonah Jameson. I know how most of you felt about Ultimates 3 but this? This is the sauce. BONUS: The first three issues of this series come with codes for free downloads of those issues. Free digital copy with every purchase? Now you're finally starting to market comics the same as DVDs.

AVENGING SPIDER-MAN BY JOE MADUREIRA POSTER

I am going to hang this over my bed.

BATGIRL #3

You are still on probation, Batgirl, but you're doing alright.

BATMAN AND ROBIN #3

Patrick Gleason is too amazing. Green Lantern Corps is poorer without him, but hot dang does he deserve a top tier book like this.

BATTLE SCARS #1 (OF 6)

I'm unsure if I'm picking this up. I'm unclear what it's about, exactly, other than there's a mystery character that Marvel heroes and villains are after and that it spins out of Fear Itself in some fashion. I'll give it a flip.

BATWOMAN #3

We have three issues of Batwoman! Will I ever stop being impressed that this book exists?

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: SEASON 9 (STEVE MORRIS COVER) #3

The Buffy Season 9 comic feels so much more like a Buffy comic than Season 8 seemed to, even though I thought Season 8 still had some great stories. This makes me happy.

DOLLHOUSE: EPITAPHS #5 (OF 5)

The conclusion of the excellent Epitaphs series! Good post-apocalyptic fun without all that sex slave stuff that weirds you people out so much. You people.

FEAR ITSELF #7.2

Matt Fraction! Adam Kubert! How does Fear Itself change things for the Thor comics?

FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #3

If anything, I think this comic could be crazier. And maybe it's getting there. It's off to a good start.

GREEN LANTERN #3

Same as I said last month, it feels good that Green Lantern is fun to read again and operating on it's own helps a lot. Thank you for the moratorium on crossovers for the time being.

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #631

TEEN LOKIIIIIIII!!!!!!!! <3 <3 <3

MEGA MAN #7

Hot dang I love this Mega Man comic, you guys. COMICS KEEP ME YOUNG.

NEW AVENGERS #18

The New Dark Avengers! Remember those guys from when they were in all of your comics?

POINT ONE #1

THE SUPER IMPORTANT MARVEL COMIC THAT NOBODY IS AWARE IS IMPORTANT, I GUESS. A big ol' "Here's all of our top creators giving you stories that kick of Marvel 2012." Bendis and Hitch teasing their big Ultron story, Loeb and McGuinness doing something with Nova maybe? (Related to their Cable book?) Fraction and Dodson kicking off Defenders, Yost and Stegman revealing their new Scarlet Spider, the teasing of the new Age of Apocalypse comic, something from Brubaker, and a host of other stories in a 64 page one-shot.

SUPERBOY #3

I didn't think #2 was quite as much fun as #1 but R.B. Silva's art still sells it.

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #4

I get Joe Mad (Parker)Spidey and Sara Pichelli (Morales)Spidey in the same week? You are spoiling me, Marvel.

UNCANNY X-FORCE #17

Speaking of Age of Apocalypse! Or rather, Age of Archangel.

OCW - Porcupine

2011-11-06T18:45:00.002-06:00

This week's OCW idea was proposed by Comicbook Crossfire's friend, Shawn Drapal. He sent in this drawing... and I love it! I want to see more about this guy! Shawn this totally rocks! I want to see more!

November's Cover of the Month

2011-11-06T17:06:00.000-06:00

Each month is hard to choose what cover stood out the most. But as for eye catching and incredible art that made me want to read a crappy comic, Men of War #2 is absolutely beautiful. There were many other great covers to mention: Captain Atom #2, Suicide Squad #2, DC Universe Presents #2, Avengers 18, Batwoman #2... BUT the runners up are a tie between Wolverine & the Xmen #1 & Frankenstein Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.

OCW - Marvel's Dreaded Porcupine

2011-11-06T07:51:00.000-06:00

This week's OCW is an idea from our buddy Shawn D! He had mentioned this guy a few times to me, but until he sent this link... I didn't realize just how truly crazy of an OCW he is. You have to check this guy out. To learn more about this pokey Marvel Villain, check out this link. And if you have any OCW ideas, please send emails to Comicbxf@gmail.com

I'll Post Shawn drawing of this OCW too. It looks great! Thanks, man!

CBXF Fantasy Comic Book League - November Update

2011-11-05T15:38:00.000-05:00

November update to the fantasy comic book league. Well Tracie is kicking ass, but the huge surprise is Sean. Reed Richards is keeping Sean in this game. Monty and Matt are holding their own, but Robb... If not for Doctor Doom and Superman... Robb is the Iowa State of the CBXF league. If you like to learn more about our Fantasy league, check out this link here.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of November 2, 2011

2011-11-01T10:05:00.004-05:00

I had myself a little double-feature of watching X-Men Origins: Wolverine and X-Men: First Class back-to-back. I haven't seen Wolverine since it was in theatres and I think I managed to enjoy it a little more having spent time away from it. (and having such a wonderful pallet cleanser in First Class) It's still problematic and a waste of time and talent but Jackman always manages to shine and there are still some nice touches in there. However, I saw the "Wolverine in Japan" alternate ending for the first time and I laughed out loud. Like, quite a bit. And then I had The Eagles stuck in my head.

I forgot that I liked Dominic Monaghan's little role in the film but I still wish we'd have seen him play Beak like he was supposed to. And watching it back-to-back with First Class just makes the Emma Frost thing too bewildering. And not just because I watched them in the wrong chronological order. (because at least this way she got older instead of younger... but then the reverse happens to Charles)

But hey, fun!

Mostly I just want to watch my Jurassic Park blu-ray forever.

But right now, we are talking comics:

ACTION COMICS #3

It's the Superman book we weren't sure we'd like and are pretty sure we LOVE.

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #673

Spider-Island epilogue! I thought this whole event was a whole ton of fun and wrapped up really nicely. Dan Slott is just killing it. ("killing it" is good now, right?)

ANIMAL MAN #3

Totally loving Animal Man. I love the family dynamics, I love the art, I love the creepiness mixed with earnestness.

FEAR ITSELF #7.1

Steve Rogers mourns Bucky. Again. Written by Ed Brubaker, the king of Caps.

FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #2 (OF 12)

Dug the first issue. I like Valkyrie and the chemistry with War Machine is interesting.

IRREDEEMABLE #31

Mark Waid just quietly being consistently awesome.

MOON KNIGHT #7

Moon Knight and Echo versus the L.A. Kingpin!

MYSTIC #4 (OF 4)

So beautifully drawn and well written and different than anything at Marvel and nobody bought it and shame on all of you. Now David Lopez has to go draw New Mutants. You see what you did?? He has to draw NEW MUTANTS, now. SIGH.

NEW MUTANTS #33

--Oh, uh... Hey, New Mutants. Wh... what's up? No, I wasn't... I... I just meant that... Naw, you... You're alright. You... you've got Blink coming up, yeah? That's cool. Blink's cool! Hey, uh, congrats on getting David-- Uh-- Oh, yeah, no, sorry, I'll just... I'll just go now. Sorry.

OUR LOVE IS REAL (ONE SHOT)

Steven Sanders is awesome and a great guy and this was THE hit self-published comic of the summer and took the convention circuit by storm (and brought in huge eBay bucks) and now Image is publishing it for a wider audience so you (and I) too can witness the phenomenon about a future where man loves dogs, minerals, and vegetables. And not like, "oh, I love my dog" or "I love vegetables" no, like... LOVE loves them. Looooooooves them. In the... special way.

SHAME ITSELF #1

I don't know how popular these are with "regular folk" but I love the parody/comedy books Marvel subtly puts out there now and again and this one I'm especially looking forward to because it includes work by awesome female cartoonists like Colleen Coover and Stephanie Buscema and stories by Daily Show writers/stars and The Internet's own Sara Benincasa. I like when fun is fun.

STATIC SHOCK #3

I think I'm one of the few people really enjoying this Static book but hopefully with the new writer coming onboard in three more issues, people will come around on it. I'd really like Static to do well.

SWAMP THING #3

So pretty, so creepy.

SWEET TOOTH #27

My store hasn't been getting any Sweet Tooth in a while and I desperately need to catch up.

UNCANNY X-MEN #1

OH HEY it's an all-new Uncanny X-Men #1! Last week's Wolverine and the X-Men #1 was everything I ever wanted in an X-book so Uncanny has some steeeep competition (except it doesn't really have to compete for me, I'm totally there for both). Kieron Gillen's been doing such fantastic stuff, I have no doubt this'll just continue to build on the greatness and be an interesting counterpoint to Wolverine's school.

Friendly Fire Episode 18

2011-10-30T16:42:00.000-05:00

OCW - Merv Pumpkinhead from the Dreaming

2011-10-30T16:25:00.000-05:00

In honor of the being Halloween week, the OCW is Merv Pumpkinhead from the world of Sandman's Dreaming. Basically a janitor in the world of Dreams who is a jerk! I loved any story that contained this OCW. If you'd like to learn more, check out this link.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of October 26, 2011

2011-10-25T15:09:00.002-05:00

'SUP, NERDS.

Captain America is on blu-ray today!

But more importantly: JURASSIC PARK ULTIMATE TRILOGY!!!!

(your mileage may vary)

FUNNY ENOUGH, your/our least favorite Jurassic Park film was directed by Captain America's Joe Johnston. So happy day for you, Joe! I'm going to watch the heck out of your great Cap and Spielberg's great Park films. And then JP3 for Sam Neil and William H. Macy, I guess.

The Cap blu-ray should have more Avengers preview material but if they REALLY want to impress me, they'll have hidden a preview of Joss Whedon's Much Ado About Nothing.

AND NOW COMICS...

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #672

CONCLUSION OF SPIDER-ISLAND! What a fun little "micro-event" this has been for Spidey-fans new and old. Insomuch as it touches on little things from Spidey lore but I didn't feel too left out, even though I forgot all about who The Queen was, even though I was reading Spectacular Spider-Man at the time.

ANGEL & FAITH #3

Gage and Isaacs are NAILING this. And Whedonverse books are hard to nail. But they've got the voices and humor down and it's compelling without feeling like an imitation of the shows.

AQUAMAN #2

Love it or hate it, Johns and Reis are certainly trying to make their mark on the character and I hope there are plenty more examples of how not-a-joke Aquaman can be. And, for the record, I fell on the "love it" side.

ASTONISHING X-MEN #43

Incoming Generation Hope writer, James Asmus, does a one-shot tale of the White Queen with art by Art Adams-inspired Nick Bradshaw with a cover by Actual Art Adams.

CAPTAIN AMERICA AND BUCKY #623

You guys, Brubaker/Andreyko/Samnee's Cap & Bucky is kind of perfection. I don't know how Chris Samnee keeps landing on these series that seem to gel so magically.

DAREDEVIL #5

Mark Waid! Marcos Martin! I'm sorry, we were talking about perfection? Yeah. Like this.

DOROTHY AND THE WIZARD IN OZ #2 (OF 8)

PIGS IN HATS.

FF #11

Lots of threads coming to a close here, building up to the big anniversary issues.

INCORRUPTIBLE #23

Pretty, pretty great.

INCREDIBLE HULK #1

I run hot and cold with The Hulk but Jason Aaron's been kicking so much ass with fresh, offbeat takes on Marvel staples, I can't wait to see what his Hulk is like. Also Marc Silvestri in another random Marvel gig.

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #630

Teen Loki is the best and Kieron Gillen deserves all the high fives.

JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #2

Curious stuff! I'll follow this for a bit more.

NEW MUTANTS #32

Oh lonely little straggling Fear Itself tie-in. And we say goodbye to David LaFuente. Bye David. :(

SECRET AVENGERS #18

I would have been perfectly happy if this book could've continued as "Warren Ellis does one-shot tales with today's best artists" but somebody did a good job in hiring the upcoming replacement team. But before we get to that, here's what should be an amazing Shang-Chi story drawn by David Aja.

SPIDER-ISLAND: CLOAK AND DAGGER #3 (OF 3)

Spider-Island is over, we get ongoing series now, yes please??

SPIDER-ISLAND: THE AMAZING SPIDER-GIRL #3 (OF 3)

I repeat: Spider-Island is over, we get ongoing series now, yes please?? And Anya keeps her powers?

TEEN TITANS #2

Fun, if unexpected, first issue. This is another "see where it goes" series. Of which The New 52 has several.

THE FLASH #2

NOT a "see where it goes" series but a "OH WOW, LOOK AT IT GO" series. Manapul knocked it out of the park with his turn as co-writer and artist with some really fun, inventive storytelling that shows one of the better examples of what good can happen when you writer is also your artist. Which is nice to see in the wake of some examples of the BAD that can happen.

THE FURY OF FIRESTORM: THE NUCLEAR MEN #2

Yet another "see where it goes" series. I like the foundation they're building here but my interest hinges on Gail Simone's involvement. If she steps out, I'm gone.

THE MIGHTY THOR #7

That other Thor book. And after avoiding Fear Itself entirely, we are now presented with a Fear Itself prequel story drawn by Pascual Ferry. That'll do.

ULTIMATE COMICS THE ULTIMATES #3

Jonathan Hickman! Essad Ribic! Dean White! That is all.

WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN #1

OH HECK TO THE YES. Could this be Tracie's Perfect X-Book in the way that Avenging Spider-Man promises to be Tracie's Perfect Spidey Book? Jason Aaron, Chris Bachalo, Wolverine, Kitty, former Gen X members, tiny Nightcrawler things(?), a passive-aggressively named school in Westchester, the broodling from Astonishing X-Men, DOOP...? YUP, sounds like.

OCW - Obscure Character this week is...

2011-10-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

Creepy and a mutant? X-men's Beak leads the way as bizarre as any character from Grant Morrison's run on X-men. (Which makes me wonder and raises the question, since Tracie has soften her opinion on Morrison, will she read his run on X-men?) Anyway would you like to learn more? Check out this site.

Dr. Who as Muppets! Awesome!

2011-10-24T19:58:00.002-05:00

Comic Alliance had this post today... love it! Check out the site here.

Editorial Issues I'm starting to have with the NEW 52

2011-10-23T13:11:00.001-05:00

I think enough time has gone by and I've read all the new 52 and have a fair idea of what DC is calling their new universe. I couldn't really put a finger on what was wrong with this reboot. Yes we all have nit-picking things. But I couldn't figure out a way to put into words my biggest problem with this "relaunch". But I just saw an ad for the Omnibus Collection of Geoff Johns' run on Hawkman. And I thought about all the hard work and great story telling that went into his issues... and it clicked with me. DC is doing to the DC Universe what they did to Hawkman. In short... really F' it up.

Now I'm not going to go through all of Hawkman's history. I don't have the patience or time to document each incarnation. Here is a wiki link that show some of it. It lists some of the history revisions, but I doubt you could argue that any character has had as many corrections and changes as Ol'Hawkie. So whats the issue? Find me one person who knows what the hell is going on with Hawkman. I don't mean just now. I mean ever. Is he the Alien from Thanagar? The archeologist? The hawk God? The Wind Element? The Son of another Hawk person? I have no clue. Which in small doses seems fine. If this was one many reboots... sure. But its not. This is who Hawkman has been since the 1985 Crisis. The man is all over the place. Geoff Johns did the best condensing and fixing ever on Hawkman. And I'd highly recommend this Omnibus. But even Johns messed things up for Hawkman in Brightest Day, by resurrecting them... turning them into Air elements, and then killing Hawk woman. (Don't get me started on Hawkwoman) Then to re-re introduce Hawkman in the NEW 52. Confused? ME TOO.

Ok, DC is in fact doing this to everyone of its characters with this latest reboot. When I feel like it should have wiped the slate clean. Why, WHY WHY... keep a few things and not others? Why fix characters like Firestorm, Blue Beetle, Oracle, and Supergirl... when there was nothing wrong with them? Yet keep something like Batman Inc? Superman died and but there was never a Justice League International, All the Batman Inc off shoot characters like Bat-wing and Australia Dingo-batman get financial support from Bruce... BUT BARBARA can't afford rent? I feel like we have 3-4 different Supermans. One in Action... is amateur and cool and unsure and new, One in Superman that is cold and brooding and quiet, one in Justice League that is fun and zippy and a bit of a bragging showoff, and finally the compassionate one in Supergirl. Which one is right? I understand they may be different timelines... BUT COME ON. This was a unified launch and a change to sync continuity... and you blew it!

Ok, some books, (even the ones that didn't need to be re-introduced) were great. Some stunk. Some are ok. But I'm missing the point of the relaunch... other than to make a quick buck and confused the hell out of all your readers. Really, can you argue that this new universe is somehow less confusing. Cause, its WAY more confusing. I'm annoyed DC. I'll lay odds on a re-reboot within the next 5 years. Where we can get the next version of Hawkman.

Green Lantern Extended Cut

2011-10-18T17:59:00.001-05:00

All kidding aside... this was totally worth the buy!

Tracie's Pull List - Week of October 19, 2011

2011-10-18T11:02:00.003-05:00

The Batman: Year One animated film drops today and I plan to scoot to Best Buy over lunch to get my exclusion Catwoman figurine. It doesn't look like it comes with a stripper pole accessory/playset. I can probably just use the pens at my desk.

Batman: Year One is my favorite Batman so I'm very excited for this. And also to hear Heisenberg play Commissioner Gordon.

Also, for those curious, the Green Lantern: Extended Edition is, in fact, an improvement on the theatrical version. Though Robb and I may be of differing opinions on how much of an improvement, it makes for a great blu-ray and has some wonderful special features, including a couple deleted scenes that would've actually gone a long way to correcting the problems I had with the film. Tsk, tsk, editors/producers/whoever.

Next week, the Captain America blu-ray!!!

And now-- COMICS!

AVENGERS #18

New artist Daniel Acuna joins the team and it's so pretty! Who will be joining the team "for reals," is the subject of this issue. Though NYCC already confirmed one of them. (probably two, actually)

BATMAN #2

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo give you the best Batman book of four Batman books. (five if you count the return of Odyssey, but that's a bit unfair)

BIRDS OF PREY #2

The first issue did not floor me but it did feature some cool Ghost in the Shell type fighting of invisible dudes and Swierczynski gets leeway with me. Even though I have to look up how to spell his name every time I do one of these. Saiz and Ruffino's art is just as wonderful as always.

DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS #2

Paul Jenkins and Bernard Chang's Deadman story was a very nice surprise, giving you a new perspective on how Deadman works.

FEAR ITSELF #7 (OF 7)
FEAR ITSELF: HOME FRONT #7 (OF 7)
FEAR ITSELF: THE FEARLESS #1 (OF 12)
FEAR ITSELF: YOUTH IN REVOLT #6 (OF 6)

Fear Itself and it's tie-ins come to a close while one of the two aftermath books, The Fearless, kicks off. I like that Valkyrie's become such a featured player of late.

INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #509

I hope there's some sort of notation of whether I'm supposed to read this before or after Fear Itself #7. I guess, judging by the cover, it should be before? Or in conjunction with?

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #629

With Fear Itself ending, so does Kid Loki's quest to assemble a group of terrible creatures to take down The Serpent and save his brother. Will he succeed and earn the praise of his fellow Asgardians? Probably not. Poor Loki.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #2

Batman versus Superman! FOR THE FIRST TIME. Be mindful of any jewelry you're wearing, Superman. Bats has sticky fingers.

NIGHTWING #2

I know we talked about Nightwing feeling like a demotion or step down for Dick, but Higgins seems to be handling it with dignity, keeping the lessons Dick learned as Batman and having him stay in Gotham, rather than being shuttled off to Bludhaven or elsewhere to be by himself. Maybe he could arrange occasional sleepovers for Damien.

TINY TITANS #45

The All Batgirls Issue! Barbara, Stephanie, Cassandra, and Flamebird!

ULTIMATE COMICS HAWKEYE #3 (OF 4)

They have a Hulk.

UNCANNY X-MEN #544

THE FINAL ISSUE OF UNCANNY X-MEN. ....Until next month's Uncanny X-Men #1! I simply can't be bothered by numbering. All I care is that Kieron Gillen is doing a fantastic job with the X-books and this issue we'll get some good epilogue-ing with the post-Fear Itself, post-Schism team, setting up a new direction for what remains of Cyclops' team on Utopia.

WOLVERINE #17

Like an idiot, I thought I'd wait for the trade on the new Wolverine series. But then the softcovers took too long to follow the hardcovers and here we are with an issue by Schism and Wolverine and the X-Men writer Jason Aaron that ties into Regenesis and I desperately want to read it. So, fine. You've made a fool of me. Are you happy?

WONDER WOMAN #2

IT'S SO PRETTY YOU GUYSSSSS. I haven't been this excited about Wonder Woman in a lonnng time.

X-MEN: 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION #1

Alright, now... this? This is an odd one. It's a reprint of Chris Claremont and Jim Lee's X-Men number one. Which I and everyone else own several times over. But it's RECOLORED with MODERN TECHNOLOGY and I may very well be that much of a sucker for this particular bit of nostalgia to want to pick this up, even though Thomas Mason isn't even my favorite colorist. It is nice looking, though, and fun to look at the issue young Tracie studied so tirelessly, with fresh eyes. Sweet moneygrab, guys. (OH AND IT HAS THE GATEFOLD COVER)

Issue 32: Comicbook Summit

2011-10-15T05:52:00.002-05:00

2011-10-12T23:19:00.001-05:00

Thanks everyone who came and talked up some comics. We had an awesome time and hope to do it again. Please let us know your thoughts and watch for both the Video and Audio podcast coming soon!

DO YOU LIKE ADORABLE BABIES?

2011-10-11T18:28:00.004-05:00

This is a comics blog so it's entirely possible adorable babies aren't your thing. Perhaps you prefer babies who have been infected by a techno-organic virus and are then sent into the future to be raised by nuns, only to grow up and travel back into the past to fight alongside the father who gave you up but who secretly got to raise you during his honeymoon with the woman whose clone was your birth mother.

Or maybe you just like when they explode. Right, Demon Knights fans?

Well, if you care to have a look at non-techno, non-explodey babies, BATMAN/SWAMP THING/AMERICAN VAMPIRE writer Scott Snyder tweeted this video of he and his sons dancing to the opening of "The Batman."

Alright, it's no Avengers trailer, but it's nice to see comic creators spreading the love with their family.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of October 12, 2011

2011-10-10T21:55:00.007-05:00

OHMIGOD YOU GUYS, THE AVENGERS TRAILER DROPPED TODAY AND IT'S INCREDIBLE AND ENDS ON SUCH A WHEDONY NOTE AND WHY, IN ODIN'S NAME, IS IT NOT MAY 2012 RIGHT NOW???????? FFFFFFFFFFFFFF

Huff.

Pant.

Okay. I'll be alright. It's going to be fine. Tomorrow I have more MILES MORALES SPIDER-MAN to soothe my soul and the Whedons even have a couple books on the shelf so let's get into that before I go into convulsions...

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #671

I worry that in the midst of The New 52 and Fear Itself and Schism, Spider-Island is being a bit forgotten. Which it really shouldn't be because it is a complete and total HOOT and even the tie-ins (or, at least, Spider-Girl, Avengers, and Cloak & Dagger) have been wonderful. There is a LOT to love here for Spider-fans. Not to mention some pretty great twists and teasers for continuity nuts.

BATGIRL #2

You are treading a thin line, Batgirl, and I do not envy your position one bit. You do at least have the fortune of my many years of devotion to Gail Simone but you still have a lot of proving yourself to do.

BATMAN AND ROBIN #2

#1 had one of my favorite bits of Bruce Wayne/Batman characterization I've read in a LONG time (then again, he's been dead) and it really sets up a new feel for the character and this duo and a GREAT, creepy new villain. Excellent stuff, Tomasi and Gleason.

BATWOMAN #2

We've waited so long for #1 to arrive, it seems almost impossible that I'll actually be able to hold #2 in my hands, tomorrow. Simply gorgeous. AND THE COMIC IS WELL DRAWN TOO. Hur.

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: SEASON 9 #2

JOSSSSSSSSSSSS. First issue was SOOOOO great and really felt like it had that old Buffy magic back. And the last page was so "BWAHH!!!??" It is fun to have fun.

DOLLHOUSE: EPITAPHS #4 (OF 5)

It's Whedon Week in nerddom!! (or "EVERY DAY" in Tracie Land)

FF #10

You can really see how Hickman will benefit from breaking FF into two books. There's so much going on here, it will be nice to maybe split the action between what the Four are doing and what the Foundation is up to.

FRANKENSTEIN, AGENT OF S.H.A.D.E. #2

Robb kinda hit it on the head when stating that Frankenstein actually seems to be suffering from the Flashpoint lead in because reintroducing the characters feels like a step backwards, regardless of how different they are in the New 52. I like the quirky new additions, though, and there's still plenty of potential here. Maybe getting past those intros, #2 will give a better showing.

GENERATION HOPE #12

My heart breaks that Kieron Gillen leaves the series with this issue, after making such a powerful mark. Still, I can't wait to see how he handles what must be a very emotional picking-up-the-pieces issue, post-Schism.

GREEN LANTERN #2

I had forgotten for a bit that Green Lantern comics could be fun! Thanks, New 52!

IRREDEEMABLE #30

Mark Waid is evil.

MEGA MAN #6

REALLY so very happy to see that this book did not dip in quality hardly at all, with the departure of Patrick Spaziente. I enjoy the heck out of these robots and the do-gooder spirit.

NEW AVENGERS #17

New Avengers does it's best work when it's not embroiled in a crossover. And now we've got Daredevil!

S.H.I.E.L.D. VOL. 2 #3 (OF 6)

Like the glasses on my face, this comic makes me feel smart.

SUPERBOY #2

I really want "Red" not to be evil, please please please.

THE PUNISHER #4

RUCKAAAAAAAA. <3

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #3

Every issue/snippet I read makes me love Miles more and more and why OH WHY are we not seeing this in the movies or cartoons? MORE MILES PLEASE. In the TRUEST spirit of Ultimate Comics, this feels like a Spider-Man for TODAY and I can't get enough. (which is good because they seem to be double shipping a bit)

ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #2

I just finished Morning Glories vol. 2, last night, and Nick Spencer is INCREDIBLE. The Ultimate X-Men are in the very best hands.

UNCANNY X-FORCE #16

X-Force is the BEST-LOOKING X-book. Do you understand how crazy that is? (well, until Bachalo starts on Wolv-Men)

X-MEN: REGENESIS #1

Kieron Gillen and Jason Aaron are making me the happiest little X-fan. Here is where the teams split and things get REALLY interesting.

EXCELSIOR!

2011-10-10T20:28:00.000-05:00

Scorch is the OCW this week. The Martian Manhunter's girlfriend for a short time. Ever dated a woman that was truly your Kryptonite? No comment? Well if you'd like to learn more about Scorch, check her out here.

Cover of the Month - September

2011-10-10T19:54:00.000-05:00

This month has been the hardest month ever. Each book had top talent putting out awesome covers! But Wonder Woman's cover took the cake! She is a bad ass and arrows can't phase her! And Mahnke's GL Corps cover is damn near perfect!

Robb's Grade Card for the New DC 52

2011-10-09T20:05:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I am a huge DC fan. When the relaunch - reboot was announced. I was very hesitant, but open minded. I decided to read each number one and give an open and honest grade for their new introduction to me and the comic reading community. After the jump check out my letter grade for each of the 52.

1. Justice League #1: This one has a lot of potential. Tons. But as an opening issue for a new universe, it falls short. I understand opening with DC's 2 top sellers, but we get the JLA for big TEAM ACTION and this scratches the surface. I'm also so confused as to timelines and how this is affecting things that are going on now vs. 5 years ago. Johns is a solid writer and Lee has done some special things. All in all, I'm sticking with this title and I look forward to the DCU meeting the World's Greatest Heroes! Grade B-

2. Animal Man #1: I knew this title was going to be a different kind of Super-hero title. Tapping into the "Vertigo" roots, its very weird, dark, and intelligent. I loved it! A real fun read. Creepy and interesting. I can't wait to read more. Grade A-

3. Batgirl #1: A solid book. Good art and decent writing, but eh, no real flare. Again, since the relaunch, I'm super confused what remains of the previous version of Batgirl/Oracle? Gail Simone has earned so much respect from me, so I'm giving this a few issues, but its on the chopping block. it did nothing for me. Its not bad, just doesn't connect. Grade C+

4. Batwing #1: Woah! Dark and Real feeling! African Batman! This felt like really scary, realistic, Blood Diamond villains and settings. Its not Desert and Lions and stereo typical Africa. It felt like what Batman would be like in a real African Country! I really enjoyed this, but again it doesn't click with me. Maybe the spin-off Batman Inc. feel kills something for me. Solid Book but I doubt I'll stick around long. Grade B

5. Detective Comics #1: Oooohh, shocking! No, not really. I didn't like Tony Daniel on Batman and I like this even less. His art is inconsistent and odd (not in a good way). And there is no substance to the plot. It just felt like "I got a great last page... How do I get there?" I don' think I'm even doing 2 issues. Blah! This is how people are suppose to look at the NEW BATMAN?? Grade D-

6. Action Comics #1: This is how you reboot a book. This Superman is New and fresh. Its a story we've never seen before, but it still feels like Superman. Wow. I can't believe how much I like this book. It feels like Someone took the Golden Age Spirit of Superman and placed it into a modern setting. One of the top new books of the 52! Grade A+

7. Swamp Thing #1: Yeah! Creepy and Beautiful Art! I was a big fan of the Alan Moore Swamp Thing. This feels like it barrows from him and clings to what came since. I like Alec Holland as the main character again, and the "Incredible Hulk" man in hiding feel. I liked this book more than I expected. I'll give it a try for a while. Grade A-

8. Stormwatch #1: I really wanted this book to be good. I liked the concept and it felt like DC wanted to mold it into an answer to what Hickman is doing on Marvel's Shield. Its not even close. Its a confusing bland book. It doesn't feel like the Martian Manhunter at all. It even makes a "reference" to something that happened in Superman #1. (In one lousy panel) I don't care at all about this book. Done. Grade D+

9. Justice League International #1: Coming off Brightest Day, Justice League: Generation Lost, This book had nothing but strong momentum. Well other than character names... this book has NOTHING to do with Generation Lost. I know this is a relaunch... but if it wasn't broke, why'd ya fix it? I'm so lost at timeline and now I feel like all the good work done with Booster is lost. I was really bored with this. I'm gonna give it one more try. It better dazzle me in #2. Grade C-

10. Red Lanterns #1: Hey I was ready to hate this book. I couldn't wait to say "pass". I was wrong. This was a quality book. Great art and a compelling story. Some insight on who Atrocitus is and who he is becoming. Never did I think a story could center around him. I still don't see this as a series. But if this was a mini... I'm impressed! Nice job on this! Grade B+

11. Batwoman #1: No surprises here. Good book that I was expecting back in March. I liked what I saw. But Batwoman is heavy into mystery and detective type of stories and this just doesn't speak to me. If you liked the back stories that came in Detective Comics, you'll love this. I just don't feel Batwoman is for me. Grade B-

12. Wonder Woman #1: I have very little in way of complaints here. And my biggest complaint is, I want more. This is great build up and hinting at what may be coming. I like this book a lot. Great Art and super cool action. A little violent, but not over the top. Very solid and a perfect start to one of DC's A listers. Grade A-

13. Resurrection Man #1: One of the bigger disappointments in this relaunch. I was a big fan of the old series. This new book just doesn't re-connect to me. I wanted to like it, but didn't. Grade C+

14. Red Hood #1: Ok, I read all the complaints before reading this title. I knew the controversy. But I really wanted this book to replace Secret Six. It doesn't. It could have. The first 6 pages or so were not bad. 2 guys in a prison break on the lamb... then comes Starfire. Oh, Starfire. They really did mistreat her. I know shes a sexual character, but not mindless, not meaningless. She WAS strong and mindful, now... PASS. Grade D+

15. Blue Beetle #1: Slow start, and I didn't expect a retelling of the origin. But I enjoyed the origin of how the scarab got to Earth and I was super impressed with the art. Fun book, but it doesn't feel as kid friendly as the previous Blue Beetle was. Good book. I plan to stay a while. Grade B-

16. Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E. #1: I like the Flashpoint version of this. I was hoping we would see a bit more of that. Its close, but it lost something. A good book, but its missing something. Don't think I'm sticking around. Grade C

17. Mister Terrific #1: I loved Mr. T on the JSA. I thought he was one of the best creations to come out of that book. I was pumped for him to be solo. Instead I get arrogant jerk who goes around telling people that he's the 3rd smartest man on the planet. Who cares? Not me. Big disappointment. Grade D-

18.Teen Titans #1: It pains me to do this. I know Tracie liked this book, but if I'm honest with myself... I'm unhappy. Its not Titans to me. I'm a long time fan and this just moved too far from what works for me. I don't like how Tim acts or Cassie? This isn't my Titans. Not a bad book, just not for me. Grade C-

19. Nightwing #1: (Big Grin) This is where he belongs. As bad as Titans feels to me, this feels right. I think some writers did well with Dick wearing Batman's cowl. And Tracie and I discussed how Nightwing is a demotion. But to me, Nightwing is who Dick is. This is well written and full of action. Much like!! Grade B+

20. Green Lantern The New Guardians #1: I was confused to start. Timelines and a retelling of Kyle's origin seemed odd. But I liked it. I think this takes away the "fridged" girlfriend part of Kyle's origin, but many would argue... that's ok. I liked this. More than I expected to. Fun and Klye is perfect as a solo lantern. Hooked me for now! Grade A-

21. Captain Atom #1: Eh? Did something happen in this book? Freddie's art is great, but I found that I didn't care about the story. I liked "Bwahh ha ha" era Captain Atom, but this felt like even the writer was unsure about the character. Doubt I'll be back. Grade C-

22. Batman The Dark Knight#1: Not a huge shock, cause I like the pre-Flashpoint Batman TDK title. Good art and a cool story. This was good. Not great, but a good Batman book. I'm going to keep collecting for now. Grade B-

23. Superman #1: Talk talk talk... very little action with substance. Ok, fire monster vs. Superman. This doesn't feel like Superman. It feels very broody. I like the dynamic between Clark and Lois at the end. I see some potential, but this is SUPERMAN! Your flagship character. Its shouldn't be a "HoHum" issue. I'm a Superman fan, through and through... but even I'll admit, its going to be hard to collect this. Grade C-.

24. The Savage Hawkman #1: I heard nothing but bad things about ol' Carter Hall. So I went in thinking this was gonna stink. It didn't. It was a real good read. It didn't resemble any Hawkman I know, and it has NOTHING to do with the version from Brightest Day. (Which urks me to no end) But I like this story. I'm here for now. Grade B

25. Hawk & Dove #1: Speaking of Bird related Heroes that I was betting would suck. It did. No surprise. Grade D-

26. Green Lantern Corps #1: Before the "War of the Green Lanterns" I felt like this was a solid book. Tracie and I discussed GL fatigue and over saturation. I was afraid this boo would be more of the same. It wasn't. Guy and John are great. Trying to work back into "normal" life just doesn't fit. I think this is great. More of this please!!! Grade A-

27. Justice League Dark #1: I didn't like it when I first read this. But for what ever reason, I re-read this. (DCU Deadman put the bug in me) Its not great, but its good. I'm curious. I may give this a longer try now. Grade C+

28. Legion of Super-Heroes #1 I guess its ok. I mean... I was barely hanging on before Flashpoint, this doesn't feel like it changed at all since. If you like what was going on before, its decent. But for me... I'm done. Nothing new to see... move along. Grade C

29. Blackhawks #1: Its G.I.Joe... with a hint of of Secret Six. These aren't good guys, even though they are U.N. sanctioned. And we see what looks like some powers developing in one character. I was betting I would hate this title, and it turned out to be pretty good. I doubt I'll collect, but if you like G.I.Joe... give this a try. Grade C+

30. Green Arrow#1: Ugh! This art is what I get to have to look forward to in the future of Superman? The story isn't awful, but I feel like its total disregard for DC Green Arrow and "let's now focus" on Smallville Green Arrow. If they called this something else, I would give it a better grade, but since they have forsaken his history, I'm skipping this title. Grade C-

31. Green Lantern #1: Doing What Geoff Johns does best, grounded Hal Jordan stories. This GL title helps with the over saturation that I spoke of earlier... DC needed to get away from Green Lantern in every cross-over and focus on the individuals. This book does that very well. Great Book! Grade A-

32. Demon Knights #1: D&D, Skull Kickers & Seven Soldiers of Victory all wrapped into a Demon story... minus the rhyming. no Rhyming... really. This book wasn't bad. If you like a good fantasy story, jump in. This is fun, just doubt I'll stay. Not my book. Grade B-

33. Aquaman#1: Boom! Geoff Johns, you took what started as a great Aquaman story in Brightest Day and introduced a fun, action packed, powerful, self deprecating, emotional Super-hero book. I knew Johns would do well on this book, but not THIS WELL. I loved this. Loved this. Blew me away! The scene in the Diner was awesome. Touching and funny. Serious without being "brooding". This is a serious contender for best new book of the 52! Grade A+

34. Birds of Prey #1: Eh... Its did nothing for me. Good art, but I just couldn't get into this. I don't know, maybe subconsciously I miss Gail Simone? Who knows, but I think I'm skipping this book in the future. Grade C

35. Supergirl #1: Great introduction, but dammit... did we have to lose all the came before? Really? She was working... and this is what we get instead? I like it, but was it worth the reboot? Nah! Grade C+

36. Men of War #1: This is a War book. I am not a "military" comic fan, but this felt very grounded in military lore and realistic war situations... Until the floating "Hero" appeared in the sky. Even then, their way of dealing with the after-math was real. I liked this, more than I thought I would. Nice book. Grade B+

37. Deathstroke #1: Blah! Not worthy of a title. Not worth a mini. Not even a good single... I didn't care. The art was nice... no surprise, but skip it! Grade D

38. Superboy #1: I liked this. I feel like we lost the Conner we knew, but we also got a little bit of what makes "Young Justice" work so well in this new creation. Really great mystery and beautiful art. This is one I'm going to look forward to each month. Good series! Grade A-

39. Grifter #1: Speaking of well written... This was another surprise. I thought Grifter was cool looking, but I never cared for Wildstorm at all. Well this book has some great moments. I like the "sleeper" agent feel and man on the run take for this future anti-hero. Nice start for a book I didn't want to try. Grade B+

40. Catwoman #1: More Controversy... I have no problem with sexual Catwoman/Batman tension. But to throw it in my face? Really? This didn't feel right. To say this "adult" is wrong... this is adolescent fan fiction, not an intelligent, dangerous, sexy arch nemesis to Batman. I'm let down by Judd Winick on this one. Not his best work. Grade D+

41. Flash #1: Who knew? Francis Manapul wrote a stronger single issue of Flash than Geoff johns did his entire run. I'm gonna miss Wally West, but I think I will really enjoy what is going on in this title. And to top it off, Francis is one hell of an artist! This book was great! Really nicely done! Grade A

42. Batman And Robin #1: More good Batman! Better than that, more Great Damian banter. I am loving Bruce butt heads with his son. I'm happily sticking with this title. Great Solid Art and Cool new Bat-Villain. If you've not seen Tomasi and Gleason do Batman... read this book. Grade A-

43. Legion Lost #1: Confusing... but a step in the right direction for a Legion book. I had a hard time following what was really going on here... the real point of these heroes to come to "our" time. But It held my interest and had beautiful art by Pete Woods. Some of his best pencils yet! I don't think I'm staying with this book, but I'll give it to the count of 3! We will see. Grade C-

44. Voo Doo #1: Tracie is not gonna like me for this one, but I really liked this. I really, really liked this. I wanted to be all, "Women shouldn't be portrayed as these sexual... " But Wow, I didn't expect there to be some backbone to this story. Yes this book is CHALK FULL of T&A eye candy. TONS. But I swear to you, there is a real story here and I liked it. A lot. One of the biggest shocks, I'm gonna give this book a serious try. And you can't deny that Sami Basri is an incredible artist. Hey, what do I know? Grade B

45. OMAC #1: If you like Kirby stuff... If you like Old Hulk from the 60's, if you like the whole Omac/Brother Eye concept... you'll love this. Only problem, I don't like most of those things. This is a really good book if that sort of thing is "your" sort of thing. Its not mine. Great title, I hope it lasts. Not for me. Grade B-

46. DC Universe Presents: Deadman: I'm not a fan of Bernard Chang. I didn't care for his style on Superman, or Supergirl... or anywhere I've seen him. So when I thumbed through this book I was pushed to think I'd hate this title too. BOY WAS I WRONG! This was excellent! A real in depth Deadman psyche story. Its barely an origin, but more importantly its a real look into what Deadman does, and why! Boston Brand is a jerk... will Deadman still be one too? I even enjoyed Bernard's art. Great Book! Grade A

47. Suicide Squad #1: First, I'm not happy with slinky, sexy Harley Quinn or Amanda Waller. Neither needed to be changed. But the rest of the book was ok. Not the hatefest I was expecting. Its NO Secret Six... not close! But it does feel like what I used to like in the ol' Suicide Squad days of the late 80's. Which I really enjoyed. Add in Boomer and you can count me in. I can see me collecting for a while. (If they fix Amanda!!) Grade B-

48. Batman #1: Nice! This is Batman's answer to Action #1. Damn near perfect. Great Art! Compelling mystery/detective story. Cliff hanger ending! New twists and all the "Wayne" boys under one roof. Who wouldn't love this title? My only complaint... and its a small one. I struggled with who was who when "Lincoln March" came face to face with "Bruce Wayne". Tall, Brunette, Square jawed... hard to tell who's who when they are there talking. (small complaint) Otherwise, loved this book. Welcome back to the top Batman! Snyder & Capullo got you there in style! Grade A

49. I Vampire #1: Who said this book was gonna suck? (Pun intended) Seriously,, I hate the vampire craze, and I not a fan of horror comics. But this was cool. Great art that reminded me of Jae Lee with a drippy, creepy inker. I found myself very interested in this. 2 Vampires discussing their future and how Mary the Queen of Blood is planning to take on the world of heroes. This isn't what the X-men did about a year ago, this is deep and intelligent. I liked this book, a lot. I'll try it for a while. Grade B

50. The Fury of Firestorm The Nuclear Men #1: Not. What. I. Expected! In a good way. I'm upset that they felt they had to wipe out an incredible "Brightest Day" story, that showed more depth in the character since his inception. But I do like what they did to tweak the origin and incorporate both Ronnie & Jason as part of the original form. This was fun. Not great, but good. Grade B

51. Static Shock #1: This was about what I expected. I liked Virgil on the Titans. He was a good fit. I could even see him as a leader of other teen heroes. But I just didn't care about this version. The art looked much better than I expected, but the story seemed blah. its too bad, but this book isn't for me. Grade C

52. All Star Western #1: This has to be the biggest surprise of the 52. I rarely have liked western themed books. (Until I tried 6th Gun) But I've not been a big fan of Jonah Hex since the 80's and then he was more Sci-Fi than western. I had heard that Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray were doing nice things on Jonah Hex, but I wasn't going to give it a try. Well if not for me trying all of DC's new 52, I'd not have tried this one. I'm here to tell you... as bad as Jonah Hex the movie was... is how GOOD All Star Western is. AN EXCELLENT BOOK. I'd say just a notch below Action #1. Wow. Loved it. Count me as a regular guys. Great book to end the grade card on. Wow! Loved it! Grade A+

Biggest Positive Surprises: All Star Western #1, Aquaman #1, Voo Doo #1, Red Lanterns #1, DC Universe Presents: Deadman #1, I Vampire #1, Grifter #1

Biggest Disappointments: Mr. Terrific #1, Teen Titans #1, Resurrection Man #1, Catwoman #1,

Best Overall Book: Action Comics #1 (Just perfect, new, fun, stuck to the core, Superman!)

Worst Book: Detective Comics #1 (Maybe have Gordon make out with Bruce... that would've helped)

Final Thoughts: DC messed with a lot here. Some good, some bad. I think the "Vertigo turned DCU" books were all successful, and surprisingly there isn't a bad Green Lantern Book. Superman is halfway to being better, but I still don't like "current" storyline Superman. Wonder Woman is back on top and over-all the Bat-books are working. I'll miss Secret Six and feel like the gap isn't filled yet, and the Legion just hasn't settled to a place where I'm happy. I think the Titans are moving backwards, but DC really has figured out how to make all the Big Guns work. I'm happy with Flash, Firestorm, Aquaman, and Nightwing. And never did I think I'd like All-Star Western... that book rocked! I think this "relaunch" was un-necessary, but since its the world we have, I'm overall happy with most of the books... for now!

I have Superboy in there 2 times...

Friendly Fire _ Audio Podcast - Episode 17

2011-10-06T20:20:00.002-05:00

Restaurant flavored Comic Talk. Tracie, Sean, Monty, and Robb discuss some DC 52, but mainly X-men Schism and Fear Itself!

Russell Crowe as Jor-El... Not Bad!

2011-10-04T21:54:00.002-05:00

When I learned that Russell Crowe was going to play the part of Superman's father, Jor-El, I was impressed. I thought this was an excellent move. Now seeing him in costume... I'm positive. I love this. This looks great. I'm getting there... I need this Superman movie to SHUT MONTY UP! I mean... I'd love a good Superman movie.

Learn more.

CBXF Comic Book Fantasy League

2011-10-04T21:42:00.000-05:00

Ok, Marvel seems to be coming out more than once a month... We have 2 FF books, 2 Avengers, 2 New Avengers, and 2 X-men books. But only the one DC book. Check out the results so far, as Tracie kicks ass.

To learn more about the fantasy league, check out the rules here.

Tracie's Pull List - Week of October 5, 2011

2011-10-04T11:08:00.001-05:00

I'd say this was a suspiciously small week for me, especially for the first Wednesday of the month, but there are two trades out that I'd love to get my hands on so that more than makes up for it.

ACTION COMICS #2

Now that the trepidation has passed and have more of an understanding of what this New 52 means for us, we're now getting into 2nd issues. I'm pretty danged excited to see where Action Comics goes.

ANIMAL MAN #2

One of the big surprises of the New 52, you either loved it or you didn't. I haven't seen much middle ground. I'm definitely on the side of "loved."

AXE COP BAD GUY EARTH TP

Oh Axe Cop. You are the best comic written by a tiny child.

HARK A VAGRANT HC

This is a very good week for hilarious webcomics in print as Kate Beaton gets a very lovely hardcover collection from Drawn and Quarterly. Hark! A Vagrant is truly one of my very favorite webcomics and I'm super thrilled for Kate's success.

MOON KNIGHT #6

You know what I just realized? For a Bendis/Maleev collaboration, Moon Knight is actually a lot of fun. Don't misunderstand, I LOVE Bendis and Maleev, but they tend to work together on very dark, dramatic things. Scarlet has a bit of wryness to it, but the subject matter is very serious. Moon Knight is actually about a superhero who seems to be having fun being a superhero and Bendis and Maleev seem to be having fun making it and that's interesting to me.

MYSTIC #3 (OF 4)

MYSTIC IS SO PRETTY WHY CAN'T IT BE AN ONGOING WHYYYY

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #229

And thus endeth my brief affair with the Sonic the Hedgehog comics. It was fun to return to them, nearly 20 years after I first started reading them. As I probably already mentioned, Sonic was one of the first comics I started buying regularly, along with Wolverine and X-Men. I think I read it from the mini-series up to #11 of the ongoing and by that point I'd lost interest and was completely embedded in the world of Marvel's mutants. This "Genesis" storyline, which took the characters through a rebooted universe, made for a nice way to sidestep the 100's of issues of continuity they've set up in the last 18 years and enjoy a couple issues of the real nice Spaziente art which I got hooked on with the still excellent Mega Man comic. Ah, nostalgia.

STATIC SHOCK #2

I'm pretty heartbroken to hear that John Rozum will be leaving this series as writer, shortly. I was pretty taken with the first issue and Static is a character I would really like to see succeed. Hopefully they can find an equally good writer to take over (or if McDaniel keeps co-writing, maybe we won't notice that much of a shift).

SWAMP THING #2

Gall dang, Swamp Thing is creepy AND pretty.

SWEET TOOTH #26

Jeff Lemire double-shot! If you enjoyed his Animal Man or Frankenstein, you DEFINITELY need to check out Sweet Tooth.

THUNDERBOLTS #164

Who likes time travel stories and the types of villains you love to hate? ME, I DO.

X-MEN: SCHISM #5 (OF 5)

OH CRAP IT'S THE FINAL ISSUE OF SCHISM AND I'M JUST GOING TO STARE AT ADAM KUBERT'S ART FOR HOURS.

The Hooded Woman...

2011-10-04T06:30:00.000-05:00

She was spotted at the Comic Book Crossfire studios. Who is she? Who is DC's mysterious woman? Check out this link: HERE.

2011-10-03T19:34:00.000-05:00

Its OCW time... And I'm a week behind. So what? Here's the Tinkerer! He's cool, check him out here.