Sam Wilson
06-30-2005, 12:13 AM
Wktf’s Reviews
Not much in the way of comics for me this week but, then, last week of the month usually is like that. Anyone pick up Captain America Marvel Masterworks #2? Great book! Tales of Suspense #85 is one of my favorites and that beautiful one page fight between Cap and Batroc is one of Kirby’s most beautifully choreographed fight scenes ever. In addition to this Masterworks I only picked up the two books I’m reviewing, below. Was hoping to see Zorro #2 but it was not to be this week.
The OMAC Project #2
DC Comics
Written by: Greg Rucka
Drawn by: Jesus Saiz, Cliff Richards and Bob Wiacek
OMAC created by: Jack Kirby
Man, this is getting uglier and uglier. When we left off last issue Batman and Sasha, former partner and love interest to the Dark Knight, were ambushed by the mysterious OMAC super agents after meeting during their separate investigations of the Blue Beetle’s murder. However, before the coming battle begins, we are given a rather confusing splash page highlighting Lex Luthor, Booster Gold and Wonder Woman in space looking for Batman’s stolen satellite, Rocket Red flying over Moscow and Clark Kent identified as “Alpha One” with a status of “monitor.”
The battle does ensue, Sasha is abducted after she reveals that Checkmate was behind the Beetle’s murder but before she can get out that Max Lord is the brain behind the operation. Batman, angry at himself for not preventing Sasha’s capture goes after his attackers only to be surprised to find his own tactics used against him and then overpowered. Superman saves him from drowning but, it seems, tensions are running high between the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight. Not a lot of gratitude from the Batman even though his lungs had filled with water. Meanwhile, in space, despite blows between Guy Gardner and Wonder Woman and plenty of empathy from Wonder Woman over the Beetle’s death, Booster Gold tells Diana to take a hike as she was never part of “our” league and goes off with Guy to find Fire and Max (!) to “kick some ass” with his former team mates. The trinity of Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman reconnoiter in the HQ but Superman seems not like himself, something Batman seems to ignore in his obsession to bring Checkmate down but Diana notices right away. Could this have anything to do with The Big S’s being “Alpha One?” Sure enough, Max Lord’s newly highlighted nosebleed inducing ability to control others’ minds seems to transmit right through the ether to Clark Kent’s PC where, oddly enough, Clark’s cubicle is decorated with images of Batgirl, Joker, Two-Face and other Batman related images. It looks like Superman is about to become Max’s mind-controlled pawn. Kind of a big yawn. How many times has Superman’s will been bent against others.
Up until this eye-rolling twist ending, Rucka delivers a story complete with action and intrigue. However, the art falls down quite a lot after Saiz’s pages end and Richards/Wiacek’s begin. Kind of a bummer, but both these problems don’t detract from the book enough not to recommend it at this point. I admit I’m still interested in seeing what happens. And, of course, being the cross-selling marketing machine DC Comics is, we are told we must read “Sacrifice” running through the Superman titles and Wonder Woman in July, and that all four of those issues build to The OMAC Project #4. This also is kind of a bummer as I really did not want to be required to pick up satellite (pun intended) titles in order to follow this one. Oh, well. Looks like I’ll be picking these up and reviewing them as well.
Green Lantern #2
DC Comics
Written by: Geoff Johns
Drawn by: Carlos Pacheco
The mysterious threat from issue #1 is revealed to be a “Manhunter,” created 3.3 billion years ago by the Guardians of the Universe, a predecessor of the Green Lantern Corps, and due to their lack of compassion were supposed to have been neutralized. Well, one, incognito, matter-of-factly murders 75 people on a traveling bus and another shows up in the back of an army truck. Green Lantern is caught between them and seems not to have the power to stop either of them and summarily gets knocked down, through walls, and then down again. Hal’s just returned from the dead only to look like he’s about to be sent back.
There are a couple of other interesting sub-plots in this issue. Some heat develops between GL and the perky blonde fighter pilot from last issue, Hal’s brother tries to convince Hal to ditch the Air Force and the GL Corps but, not succeeding, leaves his brother and Coast City, and one of the walls Hal gets knocked through houses a reconstructed version of Abin Sur’s ship. Abin Sur, of course, being the GL who gave Hal the ring as his last dying wish.
There’s some interesting stuff going on in this issue, plenty of action, and Pacheco’s art is always sweet. But, somehow, like the prior issue, I was left wanting more from this comic…especially after the spectacular “Rebirth” mini series that brought Hal back. I’m not giving up on this title yet but, I admit, my interest is waning a bit.
Sam Wilson’s Reviews
Decent week for me this week: the OMAC Project #3, the final part to the Outsiders/Teen Titans crossover, the Captain America Marvel Masterworks vol. 2 (haven’t picked this up yet, but I will) my hermano wktf mentioned, and the second issue of JMS’s Fantastic Four (one of my most careful, detailed, and well thought out reviews yet). Ugh. Anyway, my pick of the week this week is Planetary, if you aren’t reading this book, you should be. So, on Toothgnasher, on Toothgrinder! To the reviews…
Planetary issue 23
Wildstorm/DC Comics
Written By: Warren Ellis
Drawn By: John Cassaday
So, what is Planetary all about, and why do people keep ranting and raving about it? Well, Planetary is: 1) Drawn out and slow going (but in a “please tell more you teasing bastard” kind of way), 2) Asks more questions than it often answers (meh, I can live with that) and 3) is one of the most innovative, original concepts that has come down the pipeline in the last 20 years. Yeah, I’m a big Ellis fan, no secret there, but this is one of the books which cemented that fandom. To describe Planetary is no easy task, but I’ll give it a shot. In a nutshell, Planetary is an organization dedicating to solving modern Earth’s mysteries, to quote, “they are dedicated to uncovering the secret history of the 20th century”. During their journey Ellis pays homage to many beloved icons in pop culture: the Chow Yun Fat/John Woo HK police officer (my personal favorite story which occurs in issue #3, the story entitled “Dead Gunfighters”), Tarzan, ‘50’s pulp monster movies, Doc. Savage and Chinese “Wux Xia” films (you know, them movies where cats run across water and do that flying Kung Fu stuff) just to name a few. This is all done with great wit and a “show, don’t tell” way of storytelling. Of course, Planetary wouldn’t be nearly as interesting if it didn’t have really cool characters, those being Elijah Snow, Jakita Wagner, and a young man simply known as “the Drummer”.
Elijah Snow was born July 1st, 1900 (like The Authority’s Jenny Sparks, and yes, they do have a connection) and is more or less the main character. He’s a cranky bastard, with some type of cold powers and maybe super strength. When Planetary’s first issue came out, he was the new recruit, but as we later find out, he has a secret connection to the group’s past. Then we have Jakita Wagner, who seems to be there for the adventure. She is near invulnerable, has super strength and speed, and looks good in a skintight jumpsuit. Again, not much of a talker, and like Snow, she is a lot older than she looks (born in 1936). Finnaly, there is “the Drummer” Everyone else on the team thinks he’s nuts (which may or may not be true). He “talks” to machines, and know matter what the device, he can get any information he wants out of it. Definitely the jokester of the group.
So, in the latest issue we learn a lot more about “the Drummer”. This is a good thing, in the past there have been hints to Jakita’s and Snow’s origins, so it great to see the third member of the group get some face time. Turns out “the Drummer” was somewhat of a computer prodigy as a child, and every bit a pain in the a$# as a kid as he is as an adult. During his childhood he was taken from his family and held captive by some shadow organization for their own purposes, eventually rescued by Elijah Snow. Nothing more to say really, as always, the story asks and answers, and shows more than it tells.
John Cassaday’s art on this book is amazing, and I couldn’t see anyone else do it but him. He has defined the look of this book, and it is quite amazing. Realistic and detailed, Cassaday is easily one of my favorite artists of the last 20 years. Of course, Ellis is telling an epic story here, and in recent interviews, has said the end of Planetary is near (it isn’t supposed to go past issue 26 or so). So check this book out, there are three tpb’s available, and a massive “Absolute” oversized slipcased hardcover. Oh yeah, and grab this current issue too. You’ll like it, trust me.
Wonder Woman issue #217
DC Comics
Written By: Greg Rucka
Drawn By: Rags Morales
DC’s number one gal Diana, aka Wonder Woman, has gone through some major changes throughout the years. Up until the mid-‘80’s, WW could be considered a “chick book”. Almost a forgotten title, no one cared, she had her invisible jet, her lasso, almost as if she was just affirmative action hire for the Justice League. Then the previous series ends, and George Perez kicks off the series with a new #1; all post Crisis on Infinite Earth’s and ready to go. George brings Diana back to her Greek warrior origins, and creates a new WW continuity ripe with Amazons, Greek Gods, and a bunch of really cool civilians to ground her into reality. I’ll admit, I picked it up back then. Yeah, I was made fun of for reading a “girls book”, but it was cool. George turned Diana into an a$% kicking goddess who was noble and kind and looked good in a bustier. She truly became one of the “big three (with Superman and Batman) “ in the DC Universe. With Superman being the muscle and Batman the brains, Wonder Woman is definitely the heart of the DC Universe.
Since the ‘80’s, Dianna has had her ups and downs. At one point she loses the Wonder Woman mantel to Artemis and puts on bike shorts and a leather jacket. Ugh. Oh yeah, let’s not forget the John Byrne issues from a couple of years back. Double “ugh”, and a “huh” thrown in for good measure. Thankfully Dianna has herself a savior who goes by the name of Greg Rucka. Rucka is most popular for his work on “Batman”, but a couple of years ago he did an original graphic novel, Wonder Woman: The Hiketeia, guest starring everyone’s favorite paranoid control freak, the Batman. Rucka gave us a little taste of what he could do with Wonder Woman, and damn, it was good. A few months later, Rucka leaves Batman and is writing Wonder Woman on a monthly basis, and oh yes, only good things have come from this.
Rucka’s run on Wonder Woman has been a modern reinvention of the character, a lot like Perez’s relaunch of the title in the ‘80’s. Rucka has Princess Diana located in Washington, as the ambassador from Themyscria (home of the Amazon’s) to the US (or the patriarch’s world, if you will), headquartered at the Themyscrian embassy. Her supporting characters are the embassy staff, including the Minotaur Ferdinand (he’s the cook), and renewed ties with Cassie Sandsmark (the new Wonder Girl). Her new enemies include the press, Medusa (who has recently been killed in battle with Dianna, but at the cost of Dina’s eyesight), Psycho Man (yes, still an angry little midget) and new/old enemy the Silver Swan (whom Dianna is trying to rehabilitate). Conspiracies, Batman, the Justice League; all of these things are interwoven carefully in Rucka’s new “Wonder Woman Universe”. Wonder Woman is definitely not second tier, she is an A-list character in this series all the way, truly one of the big three in the DC.
This current issue is the second with new series artist Rags Morales, from Identity Crisis fame. If you liked his art in that series, I’m sure you will like it here. I personally think it’s nothing special, but it’s crisp and not overdone. Anyway, this is the last part in the “Bronze Doors” storyline where Dianna, Wonder Girl and Ferdinand journey to the Greek land of the dead. There are appearances by Hades and Ares, questions are answered and good things happen (and bad things too). Most importantly, next month we are guaranteed an “Infinite Crisis” tie-in (booo…)! So check this book out already, it’s not just for “chicks”. It’s well written, has decent art, and bustiers, what more could you want?
Fantastic Four #528
Marvel Comics
Written By: J. Michael Straczyneski
Drawn By: Mike McKone
Wktf reviewed this last month, figuring things might be getting better with hotshot TV writer J. Michael Straczyneski writing. Well, he didn’t like it too much, and neither did I. Being a long time FF reader though, I felt it was worth a second chance. Well, I was wrong. Go ahead and waste your money on this derivative, lame and poorly thought out muck. I did, and if I had to suffer through it for the sake of this review, well, someone else should too. Dammit.
Classic Trade Reviews
For this week the two of us are focusing on trades that represent “character defining moments” for our protagonists. Like all of you, as you know, we love these characters so this theme in particular really got our sparks flying. Onward!
Wktf’s Review
Captain America: Man Without A Country TPB
Marvel Comics
Written by: Mark Waid
Drawn by: Ron Garny
Additional Pencils by: Pino Rinaldi
So, what “defines” Captain America? Please permit me some brief rhetorical pondering, here. Certainly, he is the most expert combat strategist, tactician and hand-to-hand fighter in the Marvel Universe. His leadership, even across comic company lines, is unparalleled. In the Secret Wars series Thor stopped Wolverine’s griping about accepting Cap’s leadership on the Beyonder’s Battleworld by saying that he, a prince among gods who allies himself with few of mortal stature, would follow Cap through the gates of Hades. Superman, the uber franchise player of the DCU, and Batman both deferred to Cap’s leadership in the final conflict of the JLA/Avengers series. So, we’re getting close. But, while these are key traits we are not yet at the core of what defines him. Pushing further, he is a patriot, even a super patriot (c’mon, right, the guy dresses himself in the flag). But, okay, so WHY is he a super patriot? Okay, I think we’re here now.
In the first chapter of this outstanding trade that captures Captain America # 450-453, Cap says to General Chapman, “They call me ‘Captain’…but I’m not a soldier. Not really. I serve something bigger than any one branch of the military, General…bigger than any government. At least…I did. Remember always that Captain America fought for the American Dream.” Yes, the ideal of freedom, justice, democracy that define America are, for Cap, what also define him. His tie to and love of America and the American Dream. He is the manifestation and guardian of the American Dream. So, what calamity could strike at the most fundamental core of his soul and drive him to the greatest depths of conflict? He’s lost battles, he’s lost loved ones, but in this story (as the quote I just pulled implies) the unthinkable happens to Cap: he is found guilty of treason, has his American citizenship, his costume, and his shield stripped of him by the President of the United States, and is exiled from America.
Any comics fan not familiar with Mark Waid must have been living under a rock or on a deserted island. Waid has simply given us some of the most significant and powerful stories in the history of comics, from Kingdom Come to the, well, “character defining” run he just gave us on Fantastic Four (shades of Lee/Kirby and Byrne). Here he creates a plot line that fuels frantic desperation and action from our hero, not just to clear his name, but to prevent the villain who framed him (you had to guess that Cap was framed, right? I don’t think I gave anything away you that shouldn’t automatically have assumed to be the case) from achieving his end-goal of nuclear Armageddon and the immediate death of the President. Waid’s dialogue is taught, crisp and sometimes hilarious, too…like when Steve says to Sharon, “You just have to poke and poke, don’t you?” or “You sure are a lousy influence. Now I’ve gone and stolen an F-15. Why is it everything I do around you makes me look worse?” Great stuff! On the art, I have not been too impressed with Ron Garney’s work lately, like the recent “Pain of the Gods” arc, in JLA, which seemed cartoony and sketchy. Well, his work here is tight and portrays Cap’s desperation, raw anger, and unbelievable athleticism wonderfully. As credit to both storytellers the scene at the end when, against all odds, Cap takes down the final threat and when President Clinton apologizes to Cap, clears his record and returns his shield are as dramatic and heart-rending as any great movie scene.
Guys, if you’re a Cap fan, you need this book. You also should pick up “Captain America: Operation Rebirth,” the previous arc from Captain America # 445-448 also by Waid and Garney, that will give you some background for this story. It’s summarized in “Man Without A Country” so it’s not a deal-breaker if you can’t find “Operation Rebirth.” But it’s a damn fine Cap book, too.
Sam Wilson’s Review
Thor Visionaries: Walter Simonson vol 1
Marvel Comics
Written By: Walter Simonson, duh, who did you think, Irving Forbush?
Drawn By: Walter Simonson
So who are the “heavy hitters” in the Marvel Universe? I’m talking who are pound-for-pound (not counting cosmic beings, eternals, etc.) the baddest brothers on the block, cats for when it comes to raw power, are unequaled. Well, the Hulk, Silver Surfer maybe, but definitely, without a question everyone’s favorite Norse God of the Thunder Thor, scion of Asgard and son of Odin (and a heckuva dancer too). Seriously, in Avengers/JLA Thor faced off against Superman. Thor has faced off with the Hulk, and when the Avengers need a true power player, they call Thor. It’s not his power that defines him though, it’s his warriors code and Norse sense of honor that makes him who he is.
As an example, in the X-men crossover Mutant Massacre when Thor stumbled across the hundreds of dead Morlocks, rather than leave them to rot and spread disease he gave them a warrior’s funeral pyre and sounded a “death knell”, filling the tunnels with flame. Another example of Thor’s strong sense of honor came during the Avengers crossover “Operation: Galactic Storm”. This crossover occurred a little over 10 years ago, and involved a war between the Kree, Skrull and Shi’ar empires, but we soon found out the war was a plot devised by the Kree’s leader, The Supreme Intelligence. He wished the entire Kree race to be destroyed so they could be reborn anew as a superior race. This indeed was the result of things, and thus the Avengers were divided in two. Some believed that the Kree people deserved vengeance, and wished to slay the Supreme Intelligence, others wanted to hold on to the “hero” ideal and hold life precious above all else. After a vote was taken the Supreme Intelligence was found deserving of capitol justice, and the Avengers killed him, Thor choosing the side of vengeance. This forever changed the Avengers, and Thor showed his friends that not only is he a modern hero, but he is also a Norse warrior with a code of ethics older than any modern civilities.
Thor Visionaries: Walter Simonson Vol. 1 collects issues 337 to 348, and covers many stories including the redemption of Eilif, the last Viking (a story paid tribute to in the cartoon “Samurai Jack”, episode X), a multi part tale featuring Balder the Brave and Thor’s battle with the Dark Elf Malekith. Each story illustrates the noble nature of Thor, and gives great testament to his warrior heritage and character. Of course, my personal favorite story, and one I believe defines Thor better than most, is the first story contained in this tpb,“The Ballad of Beta Ray Bill”.
Beta Ray Bill is the genetically engineered, chosen one of his race. Faced with extinction, Bill’s race has taken to the heavens in a convoy, all in suspended animation while Bill stays awake, with his friend and faithful starship Skuttlebut, to keep watch over them. Anyway, during the course of Bill’s journey, he gets a little to close to Earth for SHIELD’s liking (Strategic Hazard… c’mon, do I really need to spell it out? It’s Nick Fury and the gang, geez…) and they ask Thor to go and check things out. So Thor races the heavens and meets up with Bill’s convoy, and of course engages him in battle. This is a foe like no other Thor has ever faced, for during the course of battle, Bill picks up Thor’s hammer, and is suddenly endowed with the Odinson’s powers! Thor quickly reverts back to the meek Don Blake, and is struck down. Not possible, right? Isn’t this alien cat supposed to be a bad guy? He is really gnarly looking. Don’t you have to be noble and pure of heart or something to be able to wield the mighty Mjolnir (Thor’s hammer for those who aren’t in the know)? What transpires next is many lessons for Thor, Odin, and Beta Ray Bill. Thor grows as a character, we get a new and great character in Bill, and Thor is never the same person again (literally). Truly one of the Odinson’s greatest tales, and most character defining moments.
This tpb is available in softcover form for $24.95, and to my knowledge is still in print and available. Several years ago, Graphitti Designs released a signed and numbered hardcover of it (limited to 1500 copies) for a cover of $79.95, but on ebay you can usually find that version for much less. There are three volumes of Walter Simonson Thor Visionaries books, and you would do yourself a favor by checking them all out, but start with the first one, I guarantee you are in for a truly epic ride.
Not much in the way of comics for me this week but, then, last week of the month usually is like that. Anyone pick up Captain America Marvel Masterworks #2? Great book! Tales of Suspense #85 is one of my favorites and that beautiful one page fight between Cap and Batroc is one of Kirby’s most beautifully choreographed fight scenes ever. In addition to this Masterworks I only picked up the two books I’m reviewing, below. Was hoping to see Zorro #2 but it was not to be this week.
The OMAC Project #2
DC Comics
Written by: Greg Rucka
Drawn by: Jesus Saiz, Cliff Richards and Bob Wiacek
OMAC created by: Jack Kirby
Man, this is getting uglier and uglier. When we left off last issue Batman and Sasha, former partner and love interest to the Dark Knight, were ambushed by the mysterious OMAC super agents after meeting during their separate investigations of the Blue Beetle’s murder. However, before the coming battle begins, we are given a rather confusing splash page highlighting Lex Luthor, Booster Gold and Wonder Woman in space looking for Batman’s stolen satellite, Rocket Red flying over Moscow and Clark Kent identified as “Alpha One” with a status of “monitor.”
The battle does ensue, Sasha is abducted after she reveals that Checkmate was behind the Beetle’s murder but before she can get out that Max Lord is the brain behind the operation. Batman, angry at himself for not preventing Sasha’s capture goes after his attackers only to be surprised to find his own tactics used against him and then overpowered. Superman saves him from drowning but, it seems, tensions are running high between the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight. Not a lot of gratitude from the Batman even though his lungs had filled with water. Meanwhile, in space, despite blows between Guy Gardner and Wonder Woman and plenty of empathy from Wonder Woman over the Beetle’s death, Booster Gold tells Diana to take a hike as she was never part of “our” league and goes off with Guy to find Fire and Max (!) to “kick some ass” with his former team mates. The trinity of Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman reconnoiter in the HQ but Superman seems not like himself, something Batman seems to ignore in his obsession to bring Checkmate down but Diana notices right away. Could this have anything to do with The Big S’s being “Alpha One?” Sure enough, Max Lord’s newly highlighted nosebleed inducing ability to control others’ minds seems to transmit right through the ether to Clark Kent’s PC where, oddly enough, Clark’s cubicle is decorated with images of Batgirl, Joker, Two-Face and other Batman related images. It looks like Superman is about to become Max’s mind-controlled pawn. Kind of a big yawn. How many times has Superman’s will been bent against others.
Up until this eye-rolling twist ending, Rucka delivers a story complete with action and intrigue. However, the art falls down quite a lot after Saiz’s pages end and Richards/Wiacek’s begin. Kind of a bummer, but both these problems don’t detract from the book enough not to recommend it at this point. I admit I’m still interested in seeing what happens. And, of course, being the cross-selling marketing machine DC Comics is, we are told we must read “Sacrifice” running through the Superman titles and Wonder Woman in July, and that all four of those issues build to The OMAC Project #4. This also is kind of a bummer as I really did not want to be required to pick up satellite (pun intended) titles in order to follow this one. Oh, well. Looks like I’ll be picking these up and reviewing them as well.
Green Lantern #2
DC Comics
Written by: Geoff Johns
Drawn by: Carlos Pacheco
The mysterious threat from issue #1 is revealed to be a “Manhunter,” created 3.3 billion years ago by the Guardians of the Universe, a predecessor of the Green Lantern Corps, and due to their lack of compassion were supposed to have been neutralized. Well, one, incognito, matter-of-factly murders 75 people on a traveling bus and another shows up in the back of an army truck. Green Lantern is caught between them and seems not to have the power to stop either of them and summarily gets knocked down, through walls, and then down again. Hal’s just returned from the dead only to look like he’s about to be sent back.
There are a couple of other interesting sub-plots in this issue. Some heat develops between GL and the perky blonde fighter pilot from last issue, Hal’s brother tries to convince Hal to ditch the Air Force and the GL Corps but, not succeeding, leaves his brother and Coast City, and one of the walls Hal gets knocked through houses a reconstructed version of Abin Sur’s ship. Abin Sur, of course, being the GL who gave Hal the ring as his last dying wish.
There’s some interesting stuff going on in this issue, plenty of action, and Pacheco’s art is always sweet. But, somehow, like the prior issue, I was left wanting more from this comic…especially after the spectacular “Rebirth” mini series that brought Hal back. I’m not giving up on this title yet but, I admit, my interest is waning a bit.
Sam Wilson’s Reviews
Decent week for me this week: the OMAC Project #3, the final part to the Outsiders/Teen Titans crossover, the Captain America Marvel Masterworks vol. 2 (haven’t picked this up yet, but I will) my hermano wktf mentioned, and the second issue of JMS’s Fantastic Four (one of my most careful, detailed, and well thought out reviews yet). Ugh. Anyway, my pick of the week this week is Planetary, if you aren’t reading this book, you should be. So, on Toothgnasher, on Toothgrinder! To the reviews…
Planetary issue 23
Wildstorm/DC Comics
Written By: Warren Ellis
Drawn By: John Cassaday
So, what is Planetary all about, and why do people keep ranting and raving about it? Well, Planetary is: 1) Drawn out and slow going (but in a “please tell more you teasing bastard” kind of way), 2) Asks more questions than it often answers (meh, I can live with that) and 3) is one of the most innovative, original concepts that has come down the pipeline in the last 20 years. Yeah, I’m a big Ellis fan, no secret there, but this is one of the books which cemented that fandom. To describe Planetary is no easy task, but I’ll give it a shot. In a nutshell, Planetary is an organization dedicating to solving modern Earth’s mysteries, to quote, “they are dedicated to uncovering the secret history of the 20th century”. During their journey Ellis pays homage to many beloved icons in pop culture: the Chow Yun Fat/John Woo HK police officer (my personal favorite story which occurs in issue #3, the story entitled “Dead Gunfighters”), Tarzan, ‘50’s pulp monster movies, Doc. Savage and Chinese “Wux Xia” films (you know, them movies where cats run across water and do that flying Kung Fu stuff) just to name a few. This is all done with great wit and a “show, don’t tell” way of storytelling. Of course, Planetary wouldn’t be nearly as interesting if it didn’t have really cool characters, those being Elijah Snow, Jakita Wagner, and a young man simply known as “the Drummer”.
Elijah Snow was born July 1st, 1900 (like The Authority’s Jenny Sparks, and yes, they do have a connection) and is more or less the main character. He’s a cranky bastard, with some type of cold powers and maybe super strength. When Planetary’s first issue came out, he was the new recruit, but as we later find out, he has a secret connection to the group’s past. Then we have Jakita Wagner, who seems to be there for the adventure. She is near invulnerable, has super strength and speed, and looks good in a skintight jumpsuit. Again, not much of a talker, and like Snow, she is a lot older than she looks (born in 1936). Finnaly, there is “the Drummer” Everyone else on the team thinks he’s nuts (which may or may not be true). He “talks” to machines, and know matter what the device, he can get any information he wants out of it. Definitely the jokester of the group.
So, in the latest issue we learn a lot more about “the Drummer”. This is a good thing, in the past there have been hints to Jakita’s and Snow’s origins, so it great to see the third member of the group get some face time. Turns out “the Drummer” was somewhat of a computer prodigy as a child, and every bit a pain in the a$# as a kid as he is as an adult. During his childhood he was taken from his family and held captive by some shadow organization for their own purposes, eventually rescued by Elijah Snow. Nothing more to say really, as always, the story asks and answers, and shows more than it tells.
John Cassaday’s art on this book is amazing, and I couldn’t see anyone else do it but him. He has defined the look of this book, and it is quite amazing. Realistic and detailed, Cassaday is easily one of my favorite artists of the last 20 years. Of course, Ellis is telling an epic story here, and in recent interviews, has said the end of Planetary is near (it isn’t supposed to go past issue 26 or so). So check this book out, there are three tpb’s available, and a massive “Absolute” oversized slipcased hardcover. Oh yeah, and grab this current issue too. You’ll like it, trust me.
Wonder Woman issue #217
DC Comics
Written By: Greg Rucka
Drawn By: Rags Morales
DC’s number one gal Diana, aka Wonder Woman, has gone through some major changes throughout the years. Up until the mid-‘80’s, WW could be considered a “chick book”. Almost a forgotten title, no one cared, she had her invisible jet, her lasso, almost as if she was just affirmative action hire for the Justice League. Then the previous series ends, and George Perez kicks off the series with a new #1; all post Crisis on Infinite Earth’s and ready to go. George brings Diana back to her Greek warrior origins, and creates a new WW continuity ripe with Amazons, Greek Gods, and a bunch of really cool civilians to ground her into reality. I’ll admit, I picked it up back then. Yeah, I was made fun of for reading a “girls book”, but it was cool. George turned Diana into an a$% kicking goddess who was noble and kind and looked good in a bustier. She truly became one of the “big three (with Superman and Batman) “ in the DC Universe. With Superman being the muscle and Batman the brains, Wonder Woman is definitely the heart of the DC Universe.
Since the ‘80’s, Dianna has had her ups and downs. At one point she loses the Wonder Woman mantel to Artemis and puts on bike shorts and a leather jacket. Ugh. Oh yeah, let’s not forget the John Byrne issues from a couple of years back. Double “ugh”, and a “huh” thrown in for good measure. Thankfully Dianna has herself a savior who goes by the name of Greg Rucka. Rucka is most popular for his work on “Batman”, but a couple of years ago he did an original graphic novel, Wonder Woman: The Hiketeia, guest starring everyone’s favorite paranoid control freak, the Batman. Rucka gave us a little taste of what he could do with Wonder Woman, and damn, it was good. A few months later, Rucka leaves Batman and is writing Wonder Woman on a monthly basis, and oh yes, only good things have come from this.
Rucka’s run on Wonder Woman has been a modern reinvention of the character, a lot like Perez’s relaunch of the title in the ‘80’s. Rucka has Princess Diana located in Washington, as the ambassador from Themyscria (home of the Amazon’s) to the US (or the patriarch’s world, if you will), headquartered at the Themyscrian embassy. Her supporting characters are the embassy staff, including the Minotaur Ferdinand (he’s the cook), and renewed ties with Cassie Sandsmark (the new Wonder Girl). Her new enemies include the press, Medusa (who has recently been killed in battle with Dianna, but at the cost of Dina’s eyesight), Psycho Man (yes, still an angry little midget) and new/old enemy the Silver Swan (whom Dianna is trying to rehabilitate). Conspiracies, Batman, the Justice League; all of these things are interwoven carefully in Rucka’s new “Wonder Woman Universe”. Wonder Woman is definitely not second tier, she is an A-list character in this series all the way, truly one of the big three in the DC.
This current issue is the second with new series artist Rags Morales, from Identity Crisis fame. If you liked his art in that series, I’m sure you will like it here. I personally think it’s nothing special, but it’s crisp and not overdone. Anyway, this is the last part in the “Bronze Doors” storyline where Dianna, Wonder Girl and Ferdinand journey to the Greek land of the dead. There are appearances by Hades and Ares, questions are answered and good things happen (and bad things too). Most importantly, next month we are guaranteed an “Infinite Crisis” tie-in (booo…)! So check this book out already, it’s not just for “chicks”. It’s well written, has decent art, and bustiers, what more could you want?
Fantastic Four #528
Marvel Comics
Written By: J. Michael Straczyneski
Drawn By: Mike McKone
Wktf reviewed this last month, figuring things might be getting better with hotshot TV writer J. Michael Straczyneski writing. Well, he didn’t like it too much, and neither did I. Being a long time FF reader though, I felt it was worth a second chance. Well, I was wrong. Go ahead and waste your money on this derivative, lame and poorly thought out muck. I did, and if I had to suffer through it for the sake of this review, well, someone else should too. Dammit.
Classic Trade Reviews
For this week the two of us are focusing on trades that represent “character defining moments” for our protagonists. Like all of you, as you know, we love these characters so this theme in particular really got our sparks flying. Onward!
Wktf’s Review
Captain America: Man Without A Country TPB
Marvel Comics
Written by: Mark Waid
Drawn by: Ron Garny
Additional Pencils by: Pino Rinaldi
So, what “defines” Captain America? Please permit me some brief rhetorical pondering, here. Certainly, he is the most expert combat strategist, tactician and hand-to-hand fighter in the Marvel Universe. His leadership, even across comic company lines, is unparalleled. In the Secret Wars series Thor stopped Wolverine’s griping about accepting Cap’s leadership on the Beyonder’s Battleworld by saying that he, a prince among gods who allies himself with few of mortal stature, would follow Cap through the gates of Hades. Superman, the uber franchise player of the DCU, and Batman both deferred to Cap’s leadership in the final conflict of the JLA/Avengers series. So, we’re getting close. But, while these are key traits we are not yet at the core of what defines him. Pushing further, he is a patriot, even a super patriot (c’mon, right, the guy dresses himself in the flag). But, okay, so WHY is he a super patriot? Okay, I think we’re here now.
In the first chapter of this outstanding trade that captures Captain America # 450-453, Cap says to General Chapman, “They call me ‘Captain’…but I’m not a soldier. Not really. I serve something bigger than any one branch of the military, General…bigger than any government. At least…I did. Remember always that Captain America fought for the American Dream.” Yes, the ideal of freedom, justice, democracy that define America are, for Cap, what also define him. His tie to and love of America and the American Dream. He is the manifestation and guardian of the American Dream. So, what calamity could strike at the most fundamental core of his soul and drive him to the greatest depths of conflict? He’s lost battles, he’s lost loved ones, but in this story (as the quote I just pulled implies) the unthinkable happens to Cap: he is found guilty of treason, has his American citizenship, his costume, and his shield stripped of him by the President of the United States, and is exiled from America.
Any comics fan not familiar with Mark Waid must have been living under a rock or on a deserted island. Waid has simply given us some of the most significant and powerful stories in the history of comics, from Kingdom Come to the, well, “character defining” run he just gave us on Fantastic Four (shades of Lee/Kirby and Byrne). Here he creates a plot line that fuels frantic desperation and action from our hero, not just to clear his name, but to prevent the villain who framed him (you had to guess that Cap was framed, right? I don’t think I gave anything away you that shouldn’t automatically have assumed to be the case) from achieving his end-goal of nuclear Armageddon and the immediate death of the President. Waid’s dialogue is taught, crisp and sometimes hilarious, too…like when Steve says to Sharon, “You just have to poke and poke, don’t you?” or “You sure are a lousy influence. Now I’ve gone and stolen an F-15. Why is it everything I do around you makes me look worse?” Great stuff! On the art, I have not been too impressed with Ron Garney’s work lately, like the recent “Pain of the Gods” arc, in JLA, which seemed cartoony and sketchy. Well, his work here is tight and portrays Cap’s desperation, raw anger, and unbelievable athleticism wonderfully. As credit to both storytellers the scene at the end when, against all odds, Cap takes down the final threat and when President Clinton apologizes to Cap, clears his record and returns his shield are as dramatic and heart-rending as any great movie scene.
Guys, if you’re a Cap fan, you need this book. You also should pick up “Captain America: Operation Rebirth,” the previous arc from Captain America # 445-448 also by Waid and Garney, that will give you some background for this story. It’s summarized in “Man Without A Country” so it’s not a deal-breaker if you can’t find “Operation Rebirth.” But it’s a damn fine Cap book, too.
Sam Wilson’s Review
Thor Visionaries: Walter Simonson vol 1
Marvel Comics
Written By: Walter Simonson, duh, who did you think, Irving Forbush?
Drawn By: Walter Simonson
So who are the “heavy hitters” in the Marvel Universe? I’m talking who are pound-for-pound (not counting cosmic beings, eternals, etc.) the baddest brothers on the block, cats for when it comes to raw power, are unequaled. Well, the Hulk, Silver Surfer maybe, but definitely, without a question everyone’s favorite Norse God of the Thunder Thor, scion of Asgard and son of Odin (and a heckuva dancer too). Seriously, in Avengers/JLA Thor faced off against Superman. Thor has faced off with the Hulk, and when the Avengers need a true power player, they call Thor. It’s not his power that defines him though, it’s his warriors code and Norse sense of honor that makes him who he is.
As an example, in the X-men crossover Mutant Massacre when Thor stumbled across the hundreds of dead Morlocks, rather than leave them to rot and spread disease he gave them a warrior’s funeral pyre and sounded a “death knell”, filling the tunnels with flame. Another example of Thor’s strong sense of honor came during the Avengers crossover “Operation: Galactic Storm”. This crossover occurred a little over 10 years ago, and involved a war between the Kree, Skrull and Shi’ar empires, but we soon found out the war was a plot devised by the Kree’s leader, The Supreme Intelligence. He wished the entire Kree race to be destroyed so they could be reborn anew as a superior race. This indeed was the result of things, and thus the Avengers were divided in two. Some believed that the Kree people deserved vengeance, and wished to slay the Supreme Intelligence, others wanted to hold on to the “hero” ideal and hold life precious above all else. After a vote was taken the Supreme Intelligence was found deserving of capitol justice, and the Avengers killed him, Thor choosing the side of vengeance. This forever changed the Avengers, and Thor showed his friends that not only is he a modern hero, but he is also a Norse warrior with a code of ethics older than any modern civilities.
Thor Visionaries: Walter Simonson Vol. 1 collects issues 337 to 348, and covers many stories including the redemption of Eilif, the last Viking (a story paid tribute to in the cartoon “Samurai Jack”, episode X), a multi part tale featuring Balder the Brave and Thor’s battle with the Dark Elf Malekith. Each story illustrates the noble nature of Thor, and gives great testament to his warrior heritage and character. Of course, my personal favorite story, and one I believe defines Thor better than most, is the first story contained in this tpb,“The Ballad of Beta Ray Bill”.
Beta Ray Bill is the genetically engineered, chosen one of his race. Faced with extinction, Bill’s race has taken to the heavens in a convoy, all in suspended animation while Bill stays awake, with his friend and faithful starship Skuttlebut, to keep watch over them. Anyway, during the course of Bill’s journey, he gets a little to close to Earth for SHIELD’s liking (Strategic Hazard… c’mon, do I really need to spell it out? It’s Nick Fury and the gang, geez…) and they ask Thor to go and check things out. So Thor races the heavens and meets up with Bill’s convoy, and of course engages him in battle. This is a foe like no other Thor has ever faced, for during the course of battle, Bill picks up Thor’s hammer, and is suddenly endowed with the Odinson’s powers! Thor quickly reverts back to the meek Don Blake, and is struck down. Not possible, right? Isn’t this alien cat supposed to be a bad guy? He is really gnarly looking. Don’t you have to be noble and pure of heart or something to be able to wield the mighty Mjolnir (Thor’s hammer for those who aren’t in the know)? What transpires next is many lessons for Thor, Odin, and Beta Ray Bill. Thor grows as a character, we get a new and great character in Bill, and Thor is never the same person again (literally). Truly one of the Odinson’s greatest tales, and most character defining moments.
This tpb is available in softcover form for $24.95, and to my knowledge is still in print and available. Several years ago, Graphitti Designs released a signed and numbered hardcover of it (limited to 1500 copies) for a cover of $79.95, but on ebay you can usually find that version for much less. There are three volumes of Walter Simonson Thor Visionaries books, and you would do yourself a favor by checking them all out, but start with the first one, I guarantee you are in for a truly epic ride.