wktf
08-24-2006, 10:37 AM
Wktf’s Reviews
After two very lackluster comic book weeks, this week just exploded with outstanding product that I ended up buying (even with Civil War’s delay), far too much to list here. So much so I actually had to forego some trade purchases just to ease the pain on my wallet, and so I could pick up the Marvel Masterworks Iron Man 3. As a result I’m also not going to be able to review all the comics I’d like, such as the much anticipated (well, by me anyway) battle between Wolverine and Namor in Wolverine #45. I’m also grateful that my writing partner is picking up the reigns where I left off on Wonder Woman now that issue #2 is finally out. And a special guest reviewer has jumped in for his take on Gaiman/Romita Jr’s Eternals. My pick of the week? All of you know how much I love Brubaker’s Daredevil, which I routinely make my pick when it comes out, and this month it’s spectacular as well. But my pick this week goes both to Justice League of America #1 and Dracula vs. King Arthur #4. So here we go.
Dracula vs. King Arthur #4 of 4
Silent Devil Productions
Written by: Adam & Christian Beranek
Drawn by: Chris Moreno
People complaining about the publishing delays on Civil War, Wonder Woman or even JLA (which is only a week late) take note. The third of this four issue series came out in December, 2005 and was, itself, severely delayed. This fourth issue was promised for March, 2006 but didn’t hit the shelves until just now in August, five months late. Now, keep in mind that Silent Devil is a small, independent publisher so the delays in publishing these massive (the first 3 issues were 32+ pages each) full color issues should be forgiven, especially when the product is as stellar as this comic has been. If you haven’t been following, and I’m guessing that most of you haven’t been, here’s the summary up to the point of this final 64 page concluding story.
After being introduced to King Arthur and Vlad Dracul III, and taken down a strikingly parallel tale of their respective lives and rises to power, we find the mortal Dracula in 1473 broken from his wife’s suicide, betrayed to his Turkish enemies by his brother and at death’s door. Lucifer, dramatically and horribly portrayed by Moreno, intervenes and offers Dracula the ability to create a new kingdom, made in his image, if he will only slay God’s chosen champion, the legendary King Arthur of Camelot. Having been seduced by Lucifer’s powers of persuasion, Dracula agrees and, so, is brutally and painfully transformed into the world’s first vampire and sent back in time to the Camelot of yore. Combining his new supernatural powers with his own warlike cunning Dracula gradually turns Camelot, including Arthur’s wife Guinevere and many of Arthur’s Round Table Knights, into a land of the undead. Arthur, in the mean time, is off on a quest for the Holy Grail, a quest on which he dreamed God sent him but which, in reality, was planted in his dreams by Lucifer to remove him from Camelot while Dracula worked his evil ways. By the end of last issue Merlin was studying one of the vampires’ victims (Amide, the poor sister of Arthur’s knight Percival), Sir Lemorak nearly singularly was keeping the vampires at bay with his mace and sword, and Arthur had both lost his sword Excalibur and fallen to Dracula in battle only to discover Guinevere, Lancelot (Guinevere’s lover, as well as Arthur’s first knight), Galahad and others of his royal circle converted over to Dracula’s vampire curse. These three issues have been absolutely riveting both in plotting, scripting and art, and now, as we come to the final chapter of this tale, Arthur’s ability to right this horrible situation seems completely hopeless.
And for many of the reasons previously mentioned, Arthur’s cause truly is hopeless. This issue opens with Arthur pinned against the wall of Dracula’s keep, high above the floor, with Dracula and Arthur’s family skittering on wall and feasting on him like spiders. Though he is captured, tortured and drained he is saved by the divine providence that is part of his legend to then marshals his forces and fight again. Even as Merlin tortures poor Amide into revealing her ilk’s weaknesses, Lucifer confronts Dracula to remind him of his mission and Arthur overcomes his pain and grief over his personal losses (for those he loves are now undead) to strike out against Dracula’s vampire legion, a growing sense of doom surrounds Arthur and his band. The final battle is as savage as anything Barry Smith or John Buscema gave us in the pages of Marvel’s Conan stories and, even in victory, some tremendous wrongs can not be righted and humans, even formerly good ones like Lancelot and Guinevere, once turned cannot be turned back. This book’s ending is shocking, daring, takes no shortcuts and pulls no punches. Whoa! What a helluva story! For those of you who missed it and the whole series missed one of the best indie publishing events in a very long time. But don’t worry if you can’t find these back issues, this series soon will be packaged as a trade or, for those interested in seeing the Dracula vs. King Arthur webisodes, check out this recent announcement here:
http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=80183&highlight=silent+devil
Batman #656
DC Comics
Written by: Grant Morrison
Drawn by: Andy Kubert
This new creative team came on in a big way last issue, giving us a brain twisting confrontation between Batman, The Joker and Commissioner Gordon while also taking Bruce Wayne and Alfred to London for a little R&R, much to Alfred’s and Tim’s suggesting. Batman’s been on a tear since his return to Gotham and, with the exception of Two-Face, has cleaned Gotham of nearly all its super villain problems. That said, while at a ****tail party, whose path should Bruce and Alfred cross but a clearly distressed Kirk Langstrom, also known as the Man-Bat, who is frantically racing to save his wife’s life from none other than Talia Head. As Bruce grumbles about his vacation ending abruptly we are introduced to a new member of the Batman family that, thus far, has remained a secret to Bruce but, of course, not to Talia (see our trade reviews, below!). And this new character’s the reason this story arc is called “Batman & Son.”
This issue pretty much is all out action from cover to cover. Sure, there’s some plot movement as we are introduced to the exotic runway model turned small African nation ruler Jezebel Jet. She seems to have eyes for Bruce and he for her. But all too soon Alfred discovers Dr. and Mrs. Langstrom’s being thrown from a speeding van and no sooner can Langstrom offer a panicked warning than is Batman facing an army of sword wielding ninja Man-Bats. Morrison’s having a lot of fun with this series so far but if last issue went to the writer, this issue goes to artist Andy Kubert (who’s art reminds me of his father, Joe, the more I see it…and that’s a compliment). Batman is leaping, roping, kicking and punching Man-Bat after Man-Bat in as frenetic and desperate a battle as Batman’s ever encountered. And, as Talia confronts him and then departs with the Prime Minister’s wife, Batman is forced to confront possibly the biggest change of his life, and one that follows on the heels of the OGN “Son of the Demon” (yes, again, see our trade reviews, below) from 20 years ago!
I’m loving this version of Batman. I feel like I’m back in the 1970s. Batman’s human. He smiles. He’s as much Bruce Wayne as he is Batman. I love what Dini’s doing in Detective Comics as well, in showing us the more analytical side of the world’s greatest detective. But Morrison’s Batman seems even more human still. And Kubert’s pulling out the stops on art. I’d love to see him take over Hawkman, actually, as much as I like Chaykin’s work, to see Joe Kubert represented on Hawkman again.
Daredevil #87
Marvel Comics
Written by: Ed Brubaker
Guest drawn by: David Aja
First, let’s all pause just a moment to thank Ed Brubaker for taking over this book. Last issue his explosive premier arc, The Devil in Cell Block D, concluded and with it the Mighty Bru firmly established himself as THE post-Frank Miller Daredevil scribe of our time. There’s no question that he is building off the foundation laid down by Brian Bendis. Yes, I know the world is full of Bendis-haters but give the man his props on this title, at least. His DD work was terrific, if not occasionally spotty. But Bru has taken Bendis’ work and raised his game to a new level. In this past single story arc, partnering with the immensely talented Michael Lark, he’s made Matt Murdock and the Kingpin the center of a Rykers Island pressure cooker, brought Bullseye, The Punisher and Iron Fist into the fray, and shocked the fan world by killing off Matt’s long-time partner and best friend since DD #1 in 1964, Foggy Nelson, which only served to fuel Matt’s rage and near madness. Despite all these elements and the marquee value of each of the guest stars and villains, the story remained clean, coherent, and made Dardevil one of the singularly most exciting books Marvel is publishing today.
Now Matt has escaped Rykers, with help from The Punisher, following an explosive riot, and is off to Europe and hell-bent in search of Foggy’s killer. Except, the big reveal last issue (amazing in this internet age that this wasn’t spoiled) was that Foggy’s alive, unbeknownst to Matt, and in the witness protection program in some undisclosed location. And, so, here we have the story of what happened with Foggy after every one else thought he’d died, and what a story it is! We see his past reliance on his guardian devil amidst threats like Stilt Man, Bullseye, and armies of ninjas. But these ninjas, though dangers from his past, play a very different role in his present with a nice twist from a major player who nearly killed him back in Frank Miller’s run. Once again, Brubaker gives us a page turning story filled with drama, intense street level believability, and pathos where poor Foggy’s concerned. And David Aja, who will partner with Bru on the upcoming Iron Fist book, supplies some emotionally powerful, action packed guest art that really moves this issue forward and seems perfectly suited to Bru’s script. For an interlude story, this was one hell of an issue and still relevant to the continuing Daredevil plot line. Finally, I just loved the tribute to Daredevil’s very first artist, Sub-Mariner creator Bill Everett, in the false name the FBI assigns Foggy. What a great, subtle detail to add to an already terrific comic book story!
Justice League of America #1
DC Comics
Written by: Brad Meltzer
Drawn by: Ed Benes
Well, we’ve been here before, haven’t we? Following Crisis on Infinite Earths and the Legends mini-series, Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire gave us the semi-comedic revamped Justice League. Then, in 1997, Grant Morrison and Howard Porter brought us the newly ultra heavy duty JLA powered by the biggest guns in the DCU, the magnificent seven as it were. Now, following the JLA breakup that preceded Infinite Crisis, we were treated last month to Justice League of America #0, a past, present and future view of DC’s mighty Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman trinity, a view into their partnership and relationship over the many years since the Justice League of America first formed. As that issue left no doubt, it is these three heroes who form the leadership bedrock of the JLA and, as that issue drew to a close, we knew they had some tough choices ahead of them as they began the process of forming the new team. But we also know they’ll make these decisions together in this interesting new state these three’ve found themselves in since the Infinite Crisis ended: friendship.
And, as this issue unfolds, two separate plot lines emerge. One is the continuing discussion between Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman as they review photos of past members, debate each candidate’s worth, tease and smile at each other, and decide who should be in the new League and for what reasons. There are separate story trails that unfold involving Green Lantern, Arsenal (with some comic relief from Green Arrow), Black Lightning, and Vixen that seem to tie into the Big Three’s conversation. But the second important plot line involves a character who’s been a long standing JLA member that I never really considered one of their primary members, Red Tornado, brutally struck down during the JLA: Crisis of Conscience story arc. I had no idea the android Red Tornado had a human wife, Kathy Sutton, and small step daughter, Traya. We see Kathy at the laboratory of Dr. Will Magnus, creator of the Metal Men sitting with Platinum while Red Tornado’s soul floats in limbo discussing new possibilities for life with Boston Brand, Deadman. Really, this story of Red Tornado, a character I’ve known since the 1960s but never really thought much about, is extremely touching and powerful, even gratifying, but still laced with mystery and danger that may lead to a new JLA adversary in the next few issues.
With this issue Meltzer proves, as he did with Identity Crisis, why he’s one of the best writers in comics today, a distinction shared with the likes of Geoff Johns and Ed Brubaker in my humble opinion. This is a great story with outstanding multiple characterizations and competing plotlines, all woven together into one cohesive unit and wonderfully scripted to move the reader right through it. In fact, it ends before the reader is ready for it to end, a sure sign Meltzer will bring us all back next issue. Benes’ art is as good as always. He never really disappoints. But this issue is Meltzer’s issue and it’s a home run. I expect the JLA will be back in force in the next issue or two!
Guest Review! StatueForum’s own Kdawg59!
Eternals #3 of 6
Marvel Comics
Written by: Neil Gaiman
Illustrated by: John Romita Jr.
I've been waiting for this book anxiously. When Joe asked me if I would review this book for him and Sam this week, I answered in the only way possble...
HELL YEAH BRO!!!!
I think this mini series is much deserving of love and it has me eagerly anticipating the outcome. As well as another read of numbers 1-6 just for good measure.
To briefly sum up where we began at the onset of the series, the Eternals are walking amongst us. Living beings with god-like powers from a different day. They are not only walking amongst us, they are unaware of their former "glory" as super powered Eternals. Clearly at this point some one or thing has messed with any memories of who they are, or where they came from, or why they cannot remember their pasts. Why has this come to pass is the biggest mystery of this great series so far...
We began with Doctor Mark Curry being approached by seemingly the only Eternal to know what is going on, Ike Harris (the rather sturdy Ikarus)... He tries both to warn Mark of the coming danger as well as fill him in on his past as an Eternal. He follows Mark around hoping to convince him of the unbelievable truth that is being presented, but instead only convinces Mark that Ike is half in the wrapper.
Cut to a party that another Eternal, Druig: The Deputy Prime Minister of Vorozheika, has hired Sersi (yep you guessed it... another Eternal and former foxy Avenger) to plan a giant bash... Sersi's first event as an official party planner goes terribly wrong as terrorists bust in, take the place by storm and smoking gun barrels.
Thena Elliot and Husband are also guests at this party. Thena is another Eternal and more importantly a scientist working for Mr. Tony Stark/Iron Man, which is bound to create fireworks with the Civil War backdrop currently in the Marvel Universe...
At the end of issue #2 things start to turn red for Mark Curry... He starts to suspect that Ike Harris was telling him the truth about himself as he flies into action, while time stands still around him.
Ike is strangely absent as he has way more trouble than he can handle on his own elsewhere...
Which now brings us to the issue at hand... I was thinking that there would be a lull here in the action, as sometimes mini series can do that in the middle. But Holy Hell... I was proven wrong as we are driven even deeper into the mystery of the Eternals and a bit more of the plot against them...
Mark Curry is becoming more and more aware that he is different as time again stands still for him while he tears through the terrorists at super speed and in doing so creates this "mental link’ between the other Eternals.
Thena formulates battle plans and best case scenarios faster than she can act...
Sersi turns Knives into roses... :peoples:
Instinct is taking over even as the mystery of this series builds. There is even a moment in there for those of you wondering... "Wasn't Sersi an Avenger?...why doesn't Iron Man say something?"...
This issue has a ton of layers evolving inside its pages. Gaiman and JR JR are weaving deftly through both a tangled and yet very intriguing web that is this plot against the Eternals. They are being taken out because they have no clue that they are "Gods" and in fact able to open up a can or two of Mama WKTF's whup ass...... they need only remember.
If all of you aren't following this mini... you should be. The story is top notch and JR JR is right at home with these characters and the epic mystery currently surrounding them. Not to mention his ultra, dead sexy, Sersi variant cover.... This is a great book and will be one you'll miss if you don't read it.
After two very lackluster comic book weeks, this week just exploded with outstanding product that I ended up buying (even with Civil War’s delay), far too much to list here. So much so I actually had to forego some trade purchases just to ease the pain on my wallet, and so I could pick up the Marvel Masterworks Iron Man 3. As a result I’m also not going to be able to review all the comics I’d like, such as the much anticipated (well, by me anyway) battle between Wolverine and Namor in Wolverine #45. I’m also grateful that my writing partner is picking up the reigns where I left off on Wonder Woman now that issue #2 is finally out. And a special guest reviewer has jumped in for his take on Gaiman/Romita Jr’s Eternals. My pick of the week? All of you know how much I love Brubaker’s Daredevil, which I routinely make my pick when it comes out, and this month it’s spectacular as well. But my pick this week goes both to Justice League of America #1 and Dracula vs. King Arthur #4. So here we go.
Dracula vs. King Arthur #4 of 4
Silent Devil Productions
Written by: Adam & Christian Beranek
Drawn by: Chris Moreno
People complaining about the publishing delays on Civil War, Wonder Woman or even JLA (which is only a week late) take note. The third of this four issue series came out in December, 2005 and was, itself, severely delayed. This fourth issue was promised for March, 2006 but didn’t hit the shelves until just now in August, five months late. Now, keep in mind that Silent Devil is a small, independent publisher so the delays in publishing these massive (the first 3 issues were 32+ pages each) full color issues should be forgiven, especially when the product is as stellar as this comic has been. If you haven’t been following, and I’m guessing that most of you haven’t been, here’s the summary up to the point of this final 64 page concluding story.
After being introduced to King Arthur and Vlad Dracul III, and taken down a strikingly parallel tale of their respective lives and rises to power, we find the mortal Dracula in 1473 broken from his wife’s suicide, betrayed to his Turkish enemies by his brother and at death’s door. Lucifer, dramatically and horribly portrayed by Moreno, intervenes and offers Dracula the ability to create a new kingdom, made in his image, if he will only slay God’s chosen champion, the legendary King Arthur of Camelot. Having been seduced by Lucifer’s powers of persuasion, Dracula agrees and, so, is brutally and painfully transformed into the world’s first vampire and sent back in time to the Camelot of yore. Combining his new supernatural powers with his own warlike cunning Dracula gradually turns Camelot, including Arthur’s wife Guinevere and many of Arthur’s Round Table Knights, into a land of the undead. Arthur, in the mean time, is off on a quest for the Holy Grail, a quest on which he dreamed God sent him but which, in reality, was planted in his dreams by Lucifer to remove him from Camelot while Dracula worked his evil ways. By the end of last issue Merlin was studying one of the vampires’ victims (Amide, the poor sister of Arthur’s knight Percival), Sir Lemorak nearly singularly was keeping the vampires at bay with his mace and sword, and Arthur had both lost his sword Excalibur and fallen to Dracula in battle only to discover Guinevere, Lancelot (Guinevere’s lover, as well as Arthur’s first knight), Galahad and others of his royal circle converted over to Dracula’s vampire curse. These three issues have been absolutely riveting both in plotting, scripting and art, and now, as we come to the final chapter of this tale, Arthur’s ability to right this horrible situation seems completely hopeless.
And for many of the reasons previously mentioned, Arthur’s cause truly is hopeless. This issue opens with Arthur pinned against the wall of Dracula’s keep, high above the floor, with Dracula and Arthur’s family skittering on wall and feasting on him like spiders. Though he is captured, tortured and drained he is saved by the divine providence that is part of his legend to then marshals his forces and fight again. Even as Merlin tortures poor Amide into revealing her ilk’s weaknesses, Lucifer confronts Dracula to remind him of his mission and Arthur overcomes his pain and grief over his personal losses (for those he loves are now undead) to strike out against Dracula’s vampire legion, a growing sense of doom surrounds Arthur and his band. The final battle is as savage as anything Barry Smith or John Buscema gave us in the pages of Marvel’s Conan stories and, even in victory, some tremendous wrongs can not be righted and humans, even formerly good ones like Lancelot and Guinevere, once turned cannot be turned back. This book’s ending is shocking, daring, takes no shortcuts and pulls no punches. Whoa! What a helluva story! For those of you who missed it and the whole series missed one of the best indie publishing events in a very long time. But don’t worry if you can’t find these back issues, this series soon will be packaged as a trade or, for those interested in seeing the Dracula vs. King Arthur webisodes, check out this recent announcement here:
http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=80183&highlight=silent+devil
Batman #656
DC Comics
Written by: Grant Morrison
Drawn by: Andy Kubert
This new creative team came on in a big way last issue, giving us a brain twisting confrontation between Batman, The Joker and Commissioner Gordon while also taking Bruce Wayne and Alfred to London for a little R&R, much to Alfred’s and Tim’s suggesting. Batman’s been on a tear since his return to Gotham and, with the exception of Two-Face, has cleaned Gotham of nearly all its super villain problems. That said, while at a ****tail party, whose path should Bruce and Alfred cross but a clearly distressed Kirk Langstrom, also known as the Man-Bat, who is frantically racing to save his wife’s life from none other than Talia Head. As Bruce grumbles about his vacation ending abruptly we are introduced to a new member of the Batman family that, thus far, has remained a secret to Bruce but, of course, not to Talia (see our trade reviews, below!). And this new character’s the reason this story arc is called “Batman & Son.”
This issue pretty much is all out action from cover to cover. Sure, there’s some plot movement as we are introduced to the exotic runway model turned small African nation ruler Jezebel Jet. She seems to have eyes for Bruce and he for her. But all too soon Alfred discovers Dr. and Mrs. Langstrom’s being thrown from a speeding van and no sooner can Langstrom offer a panicked warning than is Batman facing an army of sword wielding ninja Man-Bats. Morrison’s having a lot of fun with this series so far but if last issue went to the writer, this issue goes to artist Andy Kubert (who’s art reminds me of his father, Joe, the more I see it…and that’s a compliment). Batman is leaping, roping, kicking and punching Man-Bat after Man-Bat in as frenetic and desperate a battle as Batman’s ever encountered. And, as Talia confronts him and then departs with the Prime Minister’s wife, Batman is forced to confront possibly the biggest change of his life, and one that follows on the heels of the OGN “Son of the Demon” (yes, again, see our trade reviews, below) from 20 years ago!
I’m loving this version of Batman. I feel like I’m back in the 1970s. Batman’s human. He smiles. He’s as much Bruce Wayne as he is Batman. I love what Dini’s doing in Detective Comics as well, in showing us the more analytical side of the world’s greatest detective. But Morrison’s Batman seems even more human still. And Kubert’s pulling out the stops on art. I’d love to see him take over Hawkman, actually, as much as I like Chaykin’s work, to see Joe Kubert represented on Hawkman again.
Daredevil #87
Marvel Comics
Written by: Ed Brubaker
Guest drawn by: David Aja
First, let’s all pause just a moment to thank Ed Brubaker for taking over this book. Last issue his explosive premier arc, The Devil in Cell Block D, concluded and with it the Mighty Bru firmly established himself as THE post-Frank Miller Daredevil scribe of our time. There’s no question that he is building off the foundation laid down by Brian Bendis. Yes, I know the world is full of Bendis-haters but give the man his props on this title, at least. His DD work was terrific, if not occasionally spotty. But Bru has taken Bendis’ work and raised his game to a new level. In this past single story arc, partnering with the immensely talented Michael Lark, he’s made Matt Murdock and the Kingpin the center of a Rykers Island pressure cooker, brought Bullseye, The Punisher and Iron Fist into the fray, and shocked the fan world by killing off Matt’s long-time partner and best friend since DD #1 in 1964, Foggy Nelson, which only served to fuel Matt’s rage and near madness. Despite all these elements and the marquee value of each of the guest stars and villains, the story remained clean, coherent, and made Dardevil one of the singularly most exciting books Marvel is publishing today.
Now Matt has escaped Rykers, with help from The Punisher, following an explosive riot, and is off to Europe and hell-bent in search of Foggy’s killer. Except, the big reveal last issue (amazing in this internet age that this wasn’t spoiled) was that Foggy’s alive, unbeknownst to Matt, and in the witness protection program in some undisclosed location. And, so, here we have the story of what happened with Foggy after every one else thought he’d died, and what a story it is! We see his past reliance on his guardian devil amidst threats like Stilt Man, Bullseye, and armies of ninjas. But these ninjas, though dangers from his past, play a very different role in his present with a nice twist from a major player who nearly killed him back in Frank Miller’s run. Once again, Brubaker gives us a page turning story filled with drama, intense street level believability, and pathos where poor Foggy’s concerned. And David Aja, who will partner with Bru on the upcoming Iron Fist book, supplies some emotionally powerful, action packed guest art that really moves this issue forward and seems perfectly suited to Bru’s script. For an interlude story, this was one hell of an issue and still relevant to the continuing Daredevil plot line. Finally, I just loved the tribute to Daredevil’s very first artist, Sub-Mariner creator Bill Everett, in the false name the FBI assigns Foggy. What a great, subtle detail to add to an already terrific comic book story!
Justice League of America #1
DC Comics
Written by: Brad Meltzer
Drawn by: Ed Benes
Well, we’ve been here before, haven’t we? Following Crisis on Infinite Earths and the Legends mini-series, Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire gave us the semi-comedic revamped Justice League. Then, in 1997, Grant Morrison and Howard Porter brought us the newly ultra heavy duty JLA powered by the biggest guns in the DCU, the magnificent seven as it were. Now, following the JLA breakup that preceded Infinite Crisis, we were treated last month to Justice League of America #0, a past, present and future view of DC’s mighty Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman trinity, a view into their partnership and relationship over the many years since the Justice League of America first formed. As that issue left no doubt, it is these three heroes who form the leadership bedrock of the JLA and, as that issue drew to a close, we knew they had some tough choices ahead of them as they began the process of forming the new team. But we also know they’ll make these decisions together in this interesting new state these three’ve found themselves in since the Infinite Crisis ended: friendship.
And, as this issue unfolds, two separate plot lines emerge. One is the continuing discussion between Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman as they review photos of past members, debate each candidate’s worth, tease and smile at each other, and decide who should be in the new League and for what reasons. There are separate story trails that unfold involving Green Lantern, Arsenal (with some comic relief from Green Arrow), Black Lightning, and Vixen that seem to tie into the Big Three’s conversation. But the second important plot line involves a character who’s been a long standing JLA member that I never really considered one of their primary members, Red Tornado, brutally struck down during the JLA: Crisis of Conscience story arc. I had no idea the android Red Tornado had a human wife, Kathy Sutton, and small step daughter, Traya. We see Kathy at the laboratory of Dr. Will Magnus, creator of the Metal Men sitting with Platinum while Red Tornado’s soul floats in limbo discussing new possibilities for life with Boston Brand, Deadman. Really, this story of Red Tornado, a character I’ve known since the 1960s but never really thought much about, is extremely touching and powerful, even gratifying, but still laced with mystery and danger that may lead to a new JLA adversary in the next few issues.
With this issue Meltzer proves, as he did with Identity Crisis, why he’s one of the best writers in comics today, a distinction shared with the likes of Geoff Johns and Ed Brubaker in my humble opinion. This is a great story with outstanding multiple characterizations and competing plotlines, all woven together into one cohesive unit and wonderfully scripted to move the reader right through it. In fact, it ends before the reader is ready for it to end, a sure sign Meltzer will bring us all back next issue. Benes’ art is as good as always. He never really disappoints. But this issue is Meltzer’s issue and it’s a home run. I expect the JLA will be back in force in the next issue or two!
Guest Review! StatueForum’s own Kdawg59!
Eternals #3 of 6
Marvel Comics
Written by: Neil Gaiman
Illustrated by: John Romita Jr.
I've been waiting for this book anxiously. When Joe asked me if I would review this book for him and Sam this week, I answered in the only way possble...
HELL YEAH BRO!!!!
I think this mini series is much deserving of love and it has me eagerly anticipating the outcome. As well as another read of numbers 1-6 just for good measure.
To briefly sum up where we began at the onset of the series, the Eternals are walking amongst us. Living beings with god-like powers from a different day. They are not only walking amongst us, they are unaware of their former "glory" as super powered Eternals. Clearly at this point some one or thing has messed with any memories of who they are, or where they came from, or why they cannot remember their pasts. Why has this come to pass is the biggest mystery of this great series so far...
We began with Doctor Mark Curry being approached by seemingly the only Eternal to know what is going on, Ike Harris (the rather sturdy Ikarus)... He tries both to warn Mark of the coming danger as well as fill him in on his past as an Eternal. He follows Mark around hoping to convince him of the unbelievable truth that is being presented, but instead only convinces Mark that Ike is half in the wrapper.
Cut to a party that another Eternal, Druig: The Deputy Prime Minister of Vorozheika, has hired Sersi (yep you guessed it... another Eternal and former foxy Avenger) to plan a giant bash... Sersi's first event as an official party planner goes terribly wrong as terrorists bust in, take the place by storm and smoking gun barrels.
Thena Elliot and Husband are also guests at this party. Thena is another Eternal and more importantly a scientist working for Mr. Tony Stark/Iron Man, which is bound to create fireworks with the Civil War backdrop currently in the Marvel Universe...
At the end of issue #2 things start to turn red for Mark Curry... He starts to suspect that Ike Harris was telling him the truth about himself as he flies into action, while time stands still around him.
Ike is strangely absent as he has way more trouble than he can handle on his own elsewhere...
Which now brings us to the issue at hand... I was thinking that there would be a lull here in the action, as sometimes mini series can do that in the middle. But Holy Hell... I was proven wrong as we are driven even deeper into the mystery of the Eternals and a bit more of the plot against them...
Mark Curry is becoming more and more aware that he is different as time again stands still for him while he tears through the terrorists at super speed and in doing so creates this "mental link’ between the other Eternals.
Thena formulates battle plans and best case scenarios faster than she can act...
Sersi turns Knives into roses... :peoples:
Instinct is taking over even as the mystery of this series builds. There is even a moment in there for those of you wondering... "Wasn't Sersi an Avenger?...why doesn't Iron Man say something?"...
This issue has a ton of layers evolving inside its pages. Gaiman and JR JR are weaving deftly through both a tangled and yet very intriguing web that is this plot against the Eternals. They are being taken out because they have no clue that they are "Gods" and in fact able to open up a can or two of Mama WKTF's whup ass...... they need only remember.
If all of you aren't following this mini... you should be. The story is top notch and JR JR is right at home with these characters and the epic mystery currently surrounding them. Not to mention his ultra, dead sexy, Sersi variant cover.... This is a great book and will be one you'll miss if you don't read it.