Alex Schlesinger's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: AIPT Reviews: 34
8.7Avg. Review Rating

8.5
Batman: One Bad Day (2022): Catwoman #1

Jan 24, 2023

Catwoman's 'One Bad Day' graphic novel is an impressive dive into Selina Kyle's past, giving readers an emotional glimpse into her early childhood and motivations as a burglar turned anti-hero. Wilson's writing is, as usual, phenomenal, and McKelvie's art is perfect for an action-packed Catwoman heist.

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9.5
Children of the Vault (2023) #1

Aug 9, 2023

With impressive storytelling and engaging art, Children of the Vault #1 perfectly sets up the rest of the exciting limited series. Children of the Vault is already one of the Fall of X era's most interesting series, because it is not only exploring the fascinating history and desires of the Children of the Vault, but also focusing on the complex interpersonal relationship between Bishop and Cable.

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9.5
Coda (2023) #1

Sep 12, 2023

Coda #1 is already focusing in on all the things that made the original run of Coda so beloved: the fascinating world-building, the realistic and lovingly tense relationship between Hum and Serka, Matas Bergara's gorgeous character design, and the shockingly grounded emotions that underscore the story.

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8.5
Codex Black (2023): A Fire Among Clouds #1

Apr 4, 2023

Codex Black: A Fire Among Clouds is an impressive adaptation of a fan-favorite webcomic, utilizing the strong writing and illustration from Camilo Moncada L. to create a gorgeously rich story of adventure, identity, and history, with a well researched foundation in true Mesoamerican history and culture that provides fascinating education alongside the exciting journey of its two protagonists.

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8.5
DC vs. Vampires (2021) #11

Nov 22, 2022

DC vs. Vampires #11 admirably progresses the major plots along, leading nicely into the event's brutal finale. The Bat-Family's battle in Gotham, Jayna's power upgrade, and Lobo's inclusion are all highlights.

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8
Dead X-Men (2024) #3

Mar 13, 2024

Dead X-Men#3 is a beautiful and fun book that acts as a meaningful companion to Rise of the Powers of X while diverging into its own important plot to protect Xavier's mission from behind the scenes. The series continues to feel inaccessible to more casual readers - one would need an intimate knowledge of HoX/PoX andRoPoX to truly understand the details of their mission - but remains a powerful homage to the iconic nature of Hickman's revolutionary reboot. An enjoyable issue overall, due to Foxe's strong characterization, the varied art styles, and the introduction of an exciting new X-Men team, Dead X-Men #3 is worth checking out as the end of the Krakoan Age comes to a major climax.

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8
Ice Cream Man #35

May 16, 2023

Deftly weaving together the introspective thoughts on the essence of the Ice Cream Man in a creative way while also making prescient comments on many aspects of human behavior,Ice Cream Man#35 is brilliantly written and uniquely illustrated, making it a must-read for any fans of theIce Cream Man anthology.

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7.5
Joker: The World (2024) OGN

Sep 30, 2024

Overall I would definitely say thatJoker: The World is worthy of a read if you are a fan of the Joker, international comics and perspectives, or fascinating art. Or, if you were a huge fan of Geoff Johns' Three Jokers, the first tale is an interesting prologue to the tragic story. If you are feeling a bit exhausted from Joker oversaturation in DC Comics, this anthology is probably not for you, but it does offer a different lens to view the Crown Prince through. With gorgeous, unique art and interesting stories that offer a fresh take on the decades old villain,Joker: The World is a fun romp exploring the Joker's impact on the world, and how the world has impacted him.

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9
Let Me Out (2023) OGN

Oct 3, 2023

Beyond just a bone-chilling horror tale, Let Me Out offers a vision of radical queer love and found family, highlighting the importance of solidarity and kinship in the queer community. Mitch, Terri, Lupe, and Jackson are a beautiful chosen family, ride-or-die besties that risk it all to protect their own, which reflects the many real-life chosen families that exist in diverse queer circles. Even more exciting,Let Me Out ends with a "...The End?" meaning there is a very real chance that the terrifying, hilarious, and beautiful world that Emmett Nahil and George Williams' have created could very well come back, giving us further adventures of Satan and Columbiana's very own outcasts.

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9
Man's Best (2024) #1

Mar 19, 2024

By so wonderfully juxtaposing the pure existence of cats and dogs with the unknowable vastness of space, Pichetshote and Lonergan successfully evoke the excitement and fun you felt as a child, looking at the night sky clearly for the first time and dreaming about the fun you could have dancing between the stars. Man's Best#1 is a truly wonderful debut issue, with an immense degree of heart, hope, and action, sure to draw any reader in and keep them coming back for more.

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9.5
Ms. Marvel: Mutant Menace (2024) #4

Jun 5, 2024

The finale of Ms. Marvel: Mutant Menaceis a beautiful way to reflect on Kamala Khan's journey up until this point, and give her a fascinating path forward as a mutant-Inhuman hybrid. Iman Vellani and Sabir Pirzada did a lovely job of honoring Ms. Marvel's Inhuman and Pakistani-American identity in this issue, while successfully weaving in some exciting MCU synergy and moving forward Kamala's development. Ms. Marvel has had a rough go of it since she died in Amazing Spider-Man, andMs. Marvel: Mutant Menace is the perfect end of Ms. Marvel's first mutant era, as she takes the next step in her growth as a hero and young woman.

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8.5
Once Upon a Time at the End of the World #1

Nov 22, 2022

The first issue of Jason Aaron's creator owned post-apocalyptic trilogy Once Upon a Time at the End of the World introduces fascinating world-building, a unique vision of environmental collapse, and a brutal twist ending with gorgeous art by Alexandre Tefenkgi, Lee Loughridge, and AndWorld Design.

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8.5
Once Upon a Time at the End of the World #2

Dec 28, 2022

The second issue of Jason Aaron's creator-owned post-apocalyptic series 'Once Upon a Time at the End of the World' continues the debut's exciting world-building with gorgeously dynamic art, and while it may be lacking some needed action, it more than makes up for it in the strong character development of its two leads.

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9.5
Poison Ivy (2022) #7

Dec 6, 2022

G. Willow Wilson's second arc of her impressive Poison Ivy ongoing continues Ivy's quest to save planet Earth and the Green with a newly focused mission that emphasizes her anti-capitalist agenda and personal growth, while new series artist Atagun Ilhan brings the perfect level of gravitas and horror to Ivy's renewed quest.

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8.5
Poison Ivy (2022) #10

Mar 7, 2023

Poison Ivy #10 is an absolutely gorgeous "side quest" for Pamela and her friend Janet, exploring the misguided nature and incidental harm of toxic wellness culture, the lie of "conscious capitalism," and Poison Ivy's continued impact on the world around her.

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8
Poison Ivy (2022) #16

Nov 7, 2023

G. Willow Wilson's Poison Ivy#16 is a beautifully written tragedy of an innocent man, and the sins that are coming to collect their due from Ivy. With magnificent art from Marcio Takara and Arif Prianto, that make the issue a joy to read from the first page to the last, it is well worth your time and the perfect set up for Ivy's next major confrontation.

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8.8
Poison Ivy (2022) #17

Dec 5, 2023

As always, G. Willow Wilson continues to impress, perfectly capturing the complexities of Poison Ivy's tragic past and hopeful future, as Pamela works to hold herself accountable while fixing her mistakes in any way she can. Luana Vecchio's art is stunning, vibrant and full of life, even when depicting the rotting and deceased. While Poison Ivy's journey of redemption and growth may never end,Poison Ivy#17 is utterly successful at ushering in the final battle of Ivy's "Lamia Era," which will potentially define the hero's journey for years to come.

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8.5
Poison Ivy (2022) #19

Feb 6, 2024

The existential nature ofPoison Ivy#19's character study beautifully bookends the issue, with Pamela dying from Woodrue's violent exit from her body and reflecting on not only the general gift that life is, but also how she chose to embrace the gift of life, and wrench power back under her control. Ivy asserts that Poison Ivy was not born from Woodrue's experimentations, or engaging with Batman in Gotham City, but from her first act of real rebellion. While Woodrue may still cause Isley to gain powers, Ivy choosing to steal from the school lab - even though it was at Woodrue's direction - gives the antihero more agency over her own creation and the future she decides for herself.

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8.5
Poison Ivy (2022) #21

Apr 2, 2024

Life finds a way, and Poison Ivy is the living proof of that. Dr. Pamela Isley is more than what she once was, connected to the Earth and to humanity in a way only other creatures like Swamp Thing are. Poison Ivy fights for her friends, for her love, and for a better world, even if she doesn't always know the best way to go about it. Wilson, Takara, and Prianto's "Origin of Species" has been a powerful recalibrating of Ivy's origins, andPoison Ivy #21 sets Pamela up to return from near death and face the Floronic Man with renewed purpose and clarity.

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8.5
Poison Ivy (2022) #25

Sep 3, 2024

I am really hoping that Ivy's newest arc will have a darker, dirtier feel, which seems likely seeing as the ongoing will explore the antihero's complex relationship with the city of Gotham. I was very, very excited to see a teaser for Bella Garten, Ivy's ecoterrorist ex-girlfriend who goes by The Gardener, because I think her dynamic with Pamela (and how it would add some tension to her relationship with Harley) is intriguing and filled with genuine depth. This anthology made me excited for what's to come for Poison Ivy and Team Ivy, and I hope the tone of Ivy's next arc will lean on the darkness, despair, and devotion that is so core to this iconic character's identity.

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9.5
Rockstar and Softboy (2022): Go To Space #1

Feb 16, 2023

Sina Grace's 'Rockstar & Softboy Go To Space' is simply wonderful, with a joyous adventure through queer space, the continued growth of comics sweetest friendship, and the absolutely perfect mix of iconic pop culture humor and true emotional depth.

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8.5
Scarlet Witch (2023) #6

Jul 12, 2023

Scarlet Witch#6 is a real treat for fans of Wanda Maximoff, particularly her complex but loving relationship with her son Billy and his husband Teddy. The issue is chock-full of gorgeous art by the unparalleled Sara Pichelli and continuously stunning color from Frank William, which all perfectly compliments the meaningful, exciting, and excellent dialogue by Steve Orlando. While not connected to a larger arc,Scarlet Witch #6 is well worth the read and delivers on its promise, serving up a delicious tray of family drama with a crisp sip of brutal action on the side.

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8.5
Spider-Man 2099: Dark Genesis (2023) #2

May 10, 2023

As Miguel O'Hara plans his next battle against Carnage 2099 for the soul of Nueva York, the addition of heroes like Venom 2099 and Blade 2099 and villains like Halloween Jack and Flipside perfectly round out this ensemble cast series, deepening and honoring the already impressive lore of Marvel 2099.

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9
Spirit World (2023) #2

Jun 13, 2023

Chock-full of intriguing action and meaningful plot progression, Haining and Sebastian Cheng's gorgeous art pairs perfectly with the familial drama and supernatural excitement Wong brings toSpirit World#2, making the issue a must-read for any fan of DCs new hero Xanthe Zhou, or the beloved icons John Constantine and Cassandra Cain.

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8.5
Strange Academy (2023): Miles Morales #1

Aug 2, 2023

This exciting one-shot delivers exactly what it promised: a fun and adventurous magical team-up between Miles Morales and several Strange Academy students, featuring witty writing and gorgeous art. Strange Academy: Miles Morales#1 is the perfect setup for next month's Strange Academy: Moon Knight, as Shaylee and Doyle must battle against the conniving Equation to save their friends while partnering with the Fist on Khonshu.

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8.5
Strange Academy: Blood Hunt (2024) #1

May 8, 2024

Strange Academy: Blood Hunt#1 is a near-perfect tie-in to a larger series, serving to show the world-spanning event's impact on a niche group of characters while tying the plot into the greater thrust of Blood Hunt. The addition of Pia, a young vampire whose heroism will allow the reader to empathize with, is wonderful, and the Darkhold is a fascinating character to include. Daniel Jos Older's writing is pitch-perfect - funny, sharp, and emotionally resonant - while Luigi Zagaria and Eric Gapstur's art beautifully elevates the tale. A worthy investment for fans ofStrange Academy, gorgeous art, or vampire mayhem!

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9
The Heavy Bright (2023) OGN

Mar 28, 2023

Cathy Malkasian's 'The Heavy Bright' is a beautiful and important glimpse into the impact that toxic masculinity, capitalist greed, and fascist politics have on society, with haunting and ethereal art that grounds the queer allegorical tale with real emotion and impact, leaving the reader with a feeling of surprising hopefulness.

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9
The Oddly Pedestrian Life of Christopher Chaos #1

Jun 28, 2023

With a brilliant and experienced world-building creator like James Tynion IV and a talented writer like Tate Brombal there is no doubt that the many mysteries and cliff hangers revealed in this debut issue will slowly unravel, drawing the reader deeper and deeper into the monstrous world of Christopher Chaos, grounded in the deliciously colorful and expressive art from Isaac Goodhart and Miquel Muerto.

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8.5
The Sandman Universe: Dead Boy Detectives #1

Dec 27, 2022

Dead Boy Detectives #1 is a fun start to the latest addition of the growing DC Sandman Universe, with an exciting premise and beautiful art, acting as a strong setup for what will clearly be a horrific journey crossing over with the ongoing Nightmare Country series.

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8
Venom (2021) #26

Oct 11, 2023

Grnbekk's intriguing tale of corporate greed, fatherly abandonment, and finding help in unlikely places continues to be an enjoyable and violent read. The introduction of symbiote Black Widow was the perfect way to spice up this book, and her full debut with her new slimy partner was gorgeously written by Grnbekk and beautifully illustrated by Ohta and D'Armata. Even with my reservations about pacing and placement within the greater whole, this issue was a blast to read, and I highly recommend everyone pick up Grnbekk'sVenom as long as they can.

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9.5
W0rldtr33 #5

Aug 31, 2023

W0RLDTR33#5 is a perfect end to a nearly perfect first arc, with James Tynion IV masterfully weaving together a story of corruption, tragedy, unending mystery, and potentially even hope into a unique vision of what's to come. Grounded in gorgeous art from Blanco and Bellaire and stellar lettering from Bidikar, W0RLDTR33#5 will continue to shock readers while promising even more amazing world building.

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8.5
Wynd (2020): The Power of the Blood #1

Nov 13, 2024

Wynd: The Power of the Blood#1 is a great start to Michael Dialynas and James Tynion IV's final chapter of theWynd saga, masterfully catching readers up on what happened the first three volumes while slowly progressing the story. The art is stunning - capturing the freedom of Northport and the horror of Wynd's captivity - and the writing is as impressive as ever. If you've already read the rest ofWynd I have zero doubts you will pick this issue up, and if you haven't, go back and read from the beginning so you can join us here at the end!

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9.5
Wynd (2020): The Throne in the Sky #5

Dec 14, 2022

Wynd: The Throne in the Sky#5 is so masterfully written and illustrated by James Tynion IV and Michael Dialynas that it may be one of the strongest issues to date, and certainly the most enrapturing conclusion to one ofWynd's volumes. Wynd: The Throne in the Sky'#5 is an absolute must-read for fans of theWynd series, and its exciting cliffhanger ending and emotionally turbulent twists will surely keep fans clamoring for the next chapter, whenever that may come.

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8.5
X-Men (2021) #17

Nov 23, 2022

X-Men #17 is a solid character study of Forge's shifting priorities and allegiances, with a fascinating glimpse into the wonders of the Vault, a beautiful reunion for a tragic romance, and a setting that lets Cassara flex his impressive illustration skills.

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