Aaron Berke's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: Comicsverse Reviews: 60
8.8Avg. Review Rating

9.2
Action Comics (2016) #967

Nov 10, 2016

Overall, Action Comics has been a joy to read, and is one of the best titles in the Rebirth line-up. Issue 967 continues that tradition and leaves us incredibly excited for the next issue. As the question of which Superman will bring about the apocalypse is seemingly answered, we are all forced to wonder what daunting future lies in store for Metropolis, and indeed the Reborn DC Universe. Can't wait to find out.

View Issue       View Full Review
7.8
Action Comics (2016) #968

Nov 23, 2016

Action Comics #968Overall, ACTION COMICS#968 ismostly action and set-up, but it certainly points the series in a fascinating direction. Jurgens' run on Action Comics has mostly been a joy to read, with pulse pounding action and wonderfully realized characters helping to balance things out. On occasion the series has veered too heavily to the action side, and this issue is one such example, but it does manage to place a renewed focus on the plot towards the end. And the reader can hardly fault a comic with the word “Action” in the title for drawing out a conflict to epic proportions. But with the big brawl out of the way, we have some very intriguing questions left that the comic will need to slow down in order to answer. The question of Luthor's fate, and how Superman will deal with it, is completely up in the air.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.5
Action Comics (2016) #974

Feb 22, 2017

Jurgens and the art team intensify the Clark Kent mystery, creating a swell of anticipation for the coming conflict of "Superman Reborn."

View Issue       View Full Review
9.3
Action Comics (2016) #976

Mar 22, 2017

"Superman: Reborn" comes to a close with satisfying revelations and an emotional conclusion that just might bring tears to your eyes.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.8
Action Comics (2016) #987

Sep 13, 2017

Dan Jurgens crafts a stunningly layered portrait of the human condition. With a perfect emotional narrative, it stands out as one his finest pieces of writing.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.8
Action Comics (2016) #988

Sep 27, 2017

Dan Jurgens brings Jor-El and Kal-El together in a harrowing tale that explores how two completely divergent views of humanity can form.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.7
Action Comics (2016) #991

Nov 8, 2017

Dan Jurgens closes "The Oz Effect" with a poignant story about a father of Krypton and son of Earth, whose symbolic battle is fueled with pain and resonance.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.3
All-Star Batman #14

Oct 6, 2017

Scott Snyder ends his run with a terrific tale that's equal parts thrilling and touching, reminding us why Alfred will always be Batman's greatest partner.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.6
Batgirl (2016) #9

Mar 22, 2017

BATGIRL #9 shines as a tale of normal girl Barbara Gordon and all the compelling and extremely regular problems she faces.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.2
Batgirl and the Birds of Prey #6

Jan 12, 2017

Admittedly the "Who Is Oracle" storyline has dragged in the past couple issues, but it comes to an emotional and well-rounded conclusion here. Each character is given their moment to shine, particularly Huntress, who had the most notable and conclusive arc out of our three main heroines. The series is not without its flaws, but the hilarious interactions and wonderful characterization of BATGIRL AND THE BIRDS OF PREY are well worth reading, and definitely worth coming back for more next month.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.3
Batman (2016) #12

Dec 11, 2016

As Batman moves to confront both Bane and Catwoman, he lands on his knees, ready to confront death once again. Not for himself this time, but for Catwoman. The two are kindred spirits, perpetual vessels of suicide incarnate. They constantly exist in the purgatory between living and dying. Batman has chosen to resist death, but Catwoman has yet to make that choice. Now the time has come. As they circle each other, preparing to strike one final time, King suggests that this is the last stand for Batman and Catwoman. Physically, Batman makes his last stand against Bane, but emotionally and psychologically, it's all about Catwoman. Together, the Bat and the Cat will either fight death" or finally succumb. We'll see how it all ends next issue.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.6
Batman (2016) #14

Jan 4, 2017

"Rooftops" is just the kind of one-off story we needed. It provides a refreshing change of pace from King's usual storytelling devices – a fun escapism, not often seen in the pages of BATMAN. While the plot will necessarily come back into play with the upcoming "I Am Bane," story arc, it's nice to see that King and Gerads are willing to present readers with different angleson Batman. This is a tale of two people: An age-old romance, redefined for a new BATMAN.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Batman (2016) #15

Jan 18, 2017

A key moment gives us the answer. As Bruce recovers from his wounds and puts his mask back on, he reveals to Alfred what Catwoman gave to him" and what she stole from him: "The night, Alfred. She stole the night." The Bat can have the Cat, or he can have the night, but he can't have both. As Catwoman disappears, Batman is finally able to reclaim the night.

View Issue       View Full Review
7
Batman (2016) #17

Feb 15, 2017

Tom King crafts an exciting tale that unfortunately tosses his new-found comedic streak aside in favor of the usual overly-philosophical monologues.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.8
Batman (2016) #21

Apr 20, 2017

Tom King and Jason Fabok pump up this first part of "The Button" crossover with emotion, mystery, and savage conflict.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Batman (2016) #22

May 3, 2017

Tom King and Joshua Williamson craft an emotionally supercharged tale that sees Bruce and Thomas Wayne reunited as the Batmen of two places in time.

View Issue       View Full Review
8
Batman (2016) #23

May 17, 2017

Mitch Gerads' circa-1939 artwork boosts a nostalgic comic that writer Tom King struggles to balance between past and present styles.

View Issue       View Full Review
7.7
Batman (2016) #25

Jun 21, 2017

King's Riddler sizzles, his Joker fizzles, and his storytelling showcases an epic in the making.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.1
Batman (2016) #28

Aug 3, 2017

Tom King's latest chapter pits Deadshot against Deathstroke, raising the stakes considerably and filling the story with suspense -- despite an inconsistent narrative.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.6
Batman (2016) #31

Sep 20, 2017

BATMAN #31 clears the debris from previous issues and zeroes-in on the final showdown between Joker and Riddler.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.1
Batman (2016) #32

Oct 6, 2017

Tom King wraps up his epic saga with an unforgettable subversion of Batman's and Joker's relationship. This choice takes Batman into questionable territory, but cements the Riddler as a diabolical icon of villainy.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.9
Batman / The Shadow #2

May 25, 2017

BATMAN / THE SHADOW #2 navigates crime noir and supernatural horror to present an engaging tale of Batman's face off with pure evil.

View Issue       View Full Review
5.8
Batman Beyond (2016) #4

Jan 26, 2017

BATMAN BEYOND's latest issue is a disappointing retread of plot points previously covered, focusing more on endless action than on moving the story forward.

View Issue       View Full Review
9
Batman Beyond (2016) #11

Aug 22, 2017

A riveting, action-packed conclusion to this surprisingly moving tale of a father and two sons who would be Batman.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Batman: Lost #1

Nov 8, 2017

Snyder's METAL vision reaches horrific new heights as Batman journeys throughout his entire history and makes us honestly wonder whether he'll ever be free.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Batman: The Murder Machine #1

Sep 27, 2017

BATMAN: THE MURDER MACHINE #1 is a riveting analysis of Batman's and Alfred's relationship, arriving at a thesis more darkly profound than any we've ever read.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Batwoman: Rebirth #1

Feb 16, 2017

Steve Epting's beautiful visual narrative leads the way for a comic that lays the groundwork for the unusual yet emotionally gripping story of Batwoman.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.4
Dark Days: The Forge #1

Jun 14, 2017

Snyder and Tynion weave together an intricately satisfying prelude to DC's DARK NIGHTS: METAL, leaving us with plenty of interesting questions about the future of the multiverse.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Dark Days: The Casting #1

Jul 12, 2017

Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV offer a mind-shattering epic that rewrites the Dark Knight's history and lays the groundwork for his dark future.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.1
Dark Nights: Metal #1

Aug 17, 2017

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's epic reunion brings us Batman's most important mission yet -- with Multiverse-shattering results.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.7
Detective Comics (2016) #947

Dec 28, 2016

With Tynion's deconstructive storytelling and deeply layered characterization, plus Martinez's bold and effective art, this conclusion to “The Victim Syndicate” arc is an incredible payoff, fully exploring the psychology of Batman through the team he's created. The final moments of the issue also provide tantalizing hints toward events to come, setting up the inevitable conflict with the Watchmen. With all of these elements, DETECTIVE COMICShas proven to be one of REBIRTH's most complex and inventive titles, surpassing even King's BATMAN, and we're only two major storylines in! If these first two arcs are any indication, the legacy of Batman will continue to be unraveled in fascinating and unexpected ways.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.8
Detective Comics (2016) #951

Feb 23, 2017

Tynion channels palpable tension with the imminent arrival of the League of Shadows and brilliantly exposes Batman's human weaknesses.

View Issue       View Full Review
6.7
Detective Comics (2016) #954

Apr 12, 2017

James Tynion IV tells a story that holds plenty of promise, but splits off in too many directions. Marcio Takara's artwork is clunky, with noticeably repetitive facial expressions.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Detective Comics (2016) #956

May 11, 2017

James Tynion IV has done it again. With a wonderful emotional core, the finale of "League of Shadows" concludes Orphan's story in dramatically satisfying fashion.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.4
Detective Comics (2016) #964

Sep 14, 2017

Clayface and Spoiler invoke a wonderful portrait of the many layers of identity and the threats that lie within.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.8
Doomsday Clock #1

Nov 22, 2017

Geoff Johns launches us back into the world of WATCHMEN, delivering a mesmerizing premise that promises to break the boundaries of the DC Universe.

View Issue       View Full Review
4.3
Flash (2016) #12

Dec 14, 2016

Now that "The Speed of Darkness" has ground to a lurching halt, we have to hope that Williamson has recharged his writing powers. Next up is a one-off issue titled "Date Night," which will depict Barry and Iris' first date. It's a fun idea, and hopefully, will restore some of the series' earlier character charm. THE FLASH started with a lot of promise, and up until this arc has been one of the best titles in the REBIRTH lineup. With better care and craftsmanship, hopefully, THE FLASH canattain that greatness again.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.6
Flash (2016) #21

Apr 26, 2017

Joshua Williamson focuses on character interactions and plot-building, driving the mysteries of "The Button" in tantalizing new directions.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Flash (2016) #22

May 17, 2017

"The Button" races to a spellbinding conclusion, as the grand design of DC Rebirth comes into focus.

View Issue       View Full Review
6.8
Green Arrow (2016) #14

Jan 4, 2017

With an unexpected dive in both writing and art, GREEN ARROW #14 proves to be a disappointing entry in the “Emerald Outlaw” arc. It's a perfectly serviceable story in its own right, but it doesn't feel like it belongs in the world created by Percy and Schmidt. Their stories are usually rich and complex, and this one is simple and straightforward. I have every expectation that the series will pick back up in the next couple of issues. For now, this series has hit a relatively low point that doesn't do quite enough to generate excitement for future issues.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.4
New Superman #14

Aug 10, 2017

Writer Gene Luen Yang tells yet another delightful story, bringing Kong Kenan to a place of newfound confidence and heroism.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.2
Nightwing (2016) #11

Dec 24, 2016

With Seeley's humanizing characterization and To's naturalistic art, NIGHTWING #11 presents another slam-dunk tale of the former Robin and his quest to be his own unique brand of hero. This is Dick Grayson at his most relatable, Dick Grayson as the quintessential wish-fulfilment hero. Batman and Superman are the heroes we want to be. Nightwing is the hero we are inside.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.3
Red Hood and the Outlaws (2016) #10

May 10, 2017

Scott Lobdell splits up the Outlaws, resulting in a probing and thoughtful depiction of our three heroes.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.3
Super Sons (2017) #5

Jun 23, 2017

Peter J. Tomasi presents an entertaining conclusion to his first arc, featuring very little battling, but a lot of great characterization.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.2
Superman (2016) #11

Nov 17, 2016

Tomasi and Gleason have continually produced one of the best books in the Rebirth lineup, without a single bad issue in the bunch – and they show no sign of slowing down. Overall, Superman #11 is a terrific addition to the Superman series. With the book'susual penchant for terrific characterization, an awesome Robin guest appearance, and a clever focus swap from father to son, SUPERMANcontinuesto soar.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.5
Superman (2016) #16

Feb 3, 2017

Tomasi and Gleason craft an emotionally powerful conclusion to "Multiplicity," reminding readers that hope burns brightest for Superman.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.8
Superman (2016) #19

Mar 15, 2017

Filled to the brim with action and emotion, SUPERMAN #19 marks a major turning point for the Man of Steel, leaving us one issue away from Superman's true rebirth.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.7
Superman (2016) #20

Apr 6, 2017

Superman returns to his roots in this homegrown tale that gives us delightful character dynamics and a beautiful visual narrative.

View Issue       View Full Review
6.6
Superman (2016) #28

Aug 3, 2017

Peter J. Tomasi and Patrick Gleason present an uncharacteristically boring story of the Kent family traveling through America. The comic places too much emphasis on history, and not enough on storytelling.

View Issue       View Full Review
7.8
Superwoman #5

Dec 16, 2016

With mysteries abounding and the usual twists and turns aplenty, SUPERWOMAN continues to head in an exciting direction. The story doesn't always make a ton of sense, but that's just part of the fun. The artwork remains problematic and sometimes hard on the eyes, but the action scenes are executed vividly. And with a wonderful character like Lana Lang anchoring all the insanity, there's plenty ofreason to stick with SUPERWOMAN for months to come.

View Issue       View Full Review
8
Titans (2016) #6

Dec 28, 2016

With always-engaging art by Booth, and a storyline by Abnett that's come full circle, this a satisfying installment of TITANS. While the arc has been on the one-dimensional side, it's allowed for a solitary focus on Wally West that's necessary, considering his absence in the NEW 52. And now the stage has been set for future arcs that can dive into the other Titans. Meanwhile, intriguing new information has been planted heading towards the inevitable DC / Watchmen showdown. A surprise appearance of a fan-favorite DC character at the very end of the issue also provides an indication of where the story might be going, and another possible connection to Watchmen. Overall, TITANS #6 is a satisfying conclusion to "The Return of Wally West," and a hopeful indicator of even better storylines to come.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.4
Titans (2016) Annual #1

Mar 29, 2017

TITANS ANNUAL #1 is a terrific showcase for the bonds between heroes, revealing the heart of the mentor & sidekick relationship.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.8
Trinity (2016) #5

Jan 19, 2017

Overall, this was the briefest and brashest issue of TRINITY to date. It was a radical departure from the tone and storytelling structure of previous installments, but considering the wonderful character development we've gotten over the past four issues, that's A-OK. The mystery had been stretched out for long enough, and it was about damn time we got some answers. Granted, those answers might be more whacked out than readers anticipated, but they'll certainly keep us wanting more. With this arc concluding next issue, I'm predicting a stellar finish to a wonderfully explorative and uniquely rich addition to the post-REBIRTH DC Universe.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.5
Trinity (2016) #7

Mar 16, 2017

This fascinating look into the minds of the villains creates a parallel with the heroes of TRINITY, setting up an exciting conflict to come.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.7
Trinity (2016) #8

Apr 20, 2017

TRINITY #8 explores the aftermath of "Superman: Reborn" in fascinating detail, allowing our main characters to finally discuss the tampering of the DC Universe.

View Issue       View Full Review
8.6
Trinity (2016) #12

Aug 16, 2017

Rob Williams employs a wicked sense of humor in this enjoyable showcase of conflicting personalities and magical mayhem.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Wonder Woman (2016) #11

Nov 24, 2016

Overall, WONDER WOMAN #11 provides a fantastic conclusion to "The Lies" storyline. With most questions answered, the opportunity is ripe to take the series in a new direction, in which Diana and Steve are likely toseek out the perpetrators who have deceived her. Rucka and Sharp have created one of the most distinctive and quality books in the Rebirth era. They have managed to redefine Wonder Woman, while reminding readers of the qualities that we loved about her in the first place. Wonder Woman may never be able to return to Themyscira. But for us, this truly is like coming home again.

View Issue       View Full Review
7.9
Wonder Woman (2016) #15

Jan 26, 2017

"The Truth" begins with a multi-pronged effort that reads as disjointed, but still points the series in interesting directions. The artwork is strong but suffers from over-crowded panels.

View Issue       View Full Review
10
Wonder Woman (2016) #25

Jun 28, 2017

Greg Rucka and Liam Sharp craft a masterpiece to end a year-long epic, leaving WONDER WOMAN as the very best of DC Rebirth.

View Issue       View Full Review
9.3
Wonder Woman (2016) Annual #1

May 31, 2017

These four stories zero-in on the true essence of Diana Prince, making for a comic that is quintessential 'Wonder Woman.'

View Issue       View Full Review

Reviews for the Week of...

November

October

More