As I stated before, whether it be in the fight scenes or just simple character interactions, there is a life to Dynamo5 that is present both in the writing and the art. In addition, I left out commenting on the ending because that is something I dont want to spoil. Go read the issue for that. Really, go read it.

Having read this issue, I am beginning to wonder how a possible Elephantmen novel would come across as, or an animated series, or even a live action movie.

The only permanent western title on my pull-list, Jonah Hex is also one of the best overall. This issue, not only meets the standard set by the ones preceding it, it also does its bit in raising the bar even further.

I dont usually go in for the "Book of the Week" ranking/selection and even though I wont be doing it this week either, I will say this: this is one issue that anyone and everyone will enjoy reading. One does not even need to be a regular comic reader or have a PHd (or even just an MS/MA) in the DC character history. From the youngest to the oldest of ages, this story is for all (just as all memorable n lasting stories should be and are.)

In my conclusion of my review of the previous issue I had queried "Where is Shatrughan?" This issue answered that question and did so in excellent style.

Just one line: Stormwatch PHD is one of the most well rounded team titles on the market today and a definitive buy for anyone looking to try the Wildstorm Universe, (especially given the non-existent schedule of its bigger siblings, The Authority and WildCATs) and the rather mediocre, Gen 13.

Most clichd and just for that, the coolest tidbit? I-GOR, Wayne Franklins invention, it comes across as a (well deserved) nod to one of the oldest and most, uh, underappreciated characters of modern literature and even more so, movies. Viva la Igor.

Proclamation: With five more issues to go, the already blazingly hot Black Summer is well on its way to becoming a real scorcher. Get it. Get it now.

Proclamation: Story. Writing. Artwork. Highlander: Way of the Sword gets three (for three) thumbs-up!!

Taking up from the opening passage, this story could be told with Batman instead of Dr. Mid-Nite and told just as well. However, where as Batman would bring in an atmosphere of analytical logic (par excellence), Dr. Mid-Nite makes the ambience just that bithuman.

With a special appearance by DCs newest "Pops-Up Everywhere" character, the Phantom Stranger, the League finally starts to get its act together. Still, with Hal Jordon, Dinah Lance, Roy Harper (standing in for Oliver Queen) and Kendra Saunders (standing in for Carter Hall), Meltzer has brought back more than half of the seven of his Identity Crisiss "Justice League of Mindwiping."

The new character who appears in this issue of Justice League of America and who could possibly be the eleventh member of this new league is..., well..., he is an ex-colleague not only to Black Lightning but also to Batman, as also to other original and current members (Katana, Metamorpho) of the team that he was once a member of. A founding member of that team, born prince and now king of his country, this royal even had familial ties to the Teen Titans. Who is this? Well, in case his identity is still a mystery to anyone reading this, this character is Brion Markov, ruler of the fictional DC country of Markovia, the "gravity manipulating" superhero Geo-Force.

If the first issue was anything like this one as (I hope) will be the remaining three, then for Magnitude (and its creators) I close with this: Greg Wallers Magnitude is going to live up to its namesakeand then some. Now, if only I could get my hands of that damn first issue.

Ramayan 3392 AD blazes its own path from the original story, and writer Shamik Dasgupta gets my two thumbs up for taking events from the original Ramayana and adapting them to this darker, more serious take, and doing it so well.

Although it might have the same emotional impact as the first issue of its predecessor, Sam Noir: Ronin Holiday scores high once again both on account of the story and art as also the overall mood (with a certain holiday feeling going for it).

The sense of suspense, not to mention danger, to this story only gets deeper with the last page cliffhanger, and as much as I enjoyed this issue, I am even more looking forward to the next one. I also have my fingers crossed on it being at least as good if not better (which will be hard to do) than this one. Anything less, no matter how good, will be a letdown.

The Billy-Wizard Shazam dynamic has never been done better. Never.

Three thumbs up. SubCulture #1 should be on the pull-list of every comic-geek worth his (or her) salt. Minor niggle, every few panels the dialogue balloons tended to get too big and drew too much attention to them and away from story and art.

Of all the Brave New World titles (five minis and one ongoing), Trials of Shazam! is easily my favorite of the six. Starting with a bang, this is one ride that just keeps on getting better and better, and one that I intend to stay on until the last panel of the last page of the last issue of this twelve-part mini. Unless DC decides to take it even further as an ongoing, in which case, I'll keep reading at least until this creative team departs from it.

My personal likes and dislikes of the A*** angle aside, this is a story that should (and will) appeal to readers of all age groups and preferences, especially those who cannot get the "mature readers suggested" books like Snake Woman and John Woos 7 Brothers.

Speaking as someone who is not a fan of the whole Undead genre (comic, movie or otherwise), I would rank Xombie #1 among my top three Zombie-reads. What sweetens the deal even more is that it can be read by the younger demographic too. This could very well be a classic in the making.

Although not as big on the funnies (or even the "action movie" feel) as the previous issue, this issue's plot takes two very big steps forward, both with the villains entrance and the good guys finding their common thread and through that learning about their heritage and how it will define their destiny.

This series has a subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) undercurrent of dark comedy in it that isnt quite there in either of the other two "movie horror" titles currently available from Wildstorm (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Friday The 13th). With what I know about the character of Freddy Krueger I feel that this is something that is essential to any depiction of him, and kudos to writer Chuck Dixon for weaving it in here too.

Was this an interesting read? Sure. Is it for everyone? Well, not quite. Nevertheless, even leaving aside the superhero part, After the Cape story does have a promising start for an intriguing and (in ways) touching human story and that is where it scores the most.

Proclamation: Kudos to writer Todd Farmer, artist Don Marquez and the rest of the creative team of Alien Pig Farm 3000.

Even though the previous "Moving On" arc started out quite slowly, it gathered speed to reach an explosive (albeit slightly anticlimactic ending). If this first issue is anything to go by, this arc is going to an even bigger blockbuster than the one it follows.

Ideally aimed towards the younger crowd, I think even old farts, ahem, the more mature readers (like yours truly) will enjoy this full length story.

As first issues go, story wise at least (content and pacing) Batman Confidential comes across faster if not better than its Superman Counterpart. What is intriguing is that while SMC is tooting the "Aww Shucks" innocent small town boy horn, BMC goes Dark Knight from the get go.

Does the team of Andy Diggle, Whilce Portacio, Richard Friend and I.L.L. seem as at ease and polished as the one of Darwyn Cooke, Tim Sale and Dave Stewart over at Superman: Confidential? Maybe not. Okay, most probably not. However, content wise, the second issue of this series entertained me more than the second issue of that series, and at the end of the day, that (and not the re-write/re-invention of the respective character) is what I am looking for in both these titles.

Despite my cynicism of the characters, this was an enjoyable story. Just as with the show it is based on, The Batman Strikes! has also come a long way from being the Not-BTAS series, and this adventure does its part in developing its mythos.

I would have liked a little more serious teenage Bruce and a little oomph in the villainous-threat department. Nevertheless, a nice time-pass "lighter" Bat-story.

PROCLAMATION: Anyone and everyone should be buying this book. Even though homage is paid to those before him, this Blue Beetle is his own man/boy, and if things continue as they are, one day he might even be his own hero, instead of a Goddamn Dentist!

PROCLAMATION: Not a particularly deep plot or for that matter, an expansive one. Yet, thanks to the writing and art, a fast paced and enjoyable read. As always.

Thank God, I mean, Satan that Danny took Jimmy with him. Who knows what would have happened to the, uh, "cute" talking rabbit. Why? Well, thanks to a scorned France (Joan of Arc), Dannys little English-American alliance just came to a rather abrupt and if I might say so, colorful expletive filled, ending. So much for the "Coalition of the Willing."

"Hit its stride" this series hasnt. However, slowly but surely it is developing and catching speed. Now if only something could be done about that characters themselves (as individuals).

Unlike the Death Jr. minis which are developing a sort of continuity with the second one taking after the events of the first, The Cryptics, in these one-shot special format provide an almost fresh start every time, somewhat like an Archie comicbook. While it might not make for a longer, deeper story development, this style does make it easier for a new reader to go cryptic. (Sorry, an admittedly bad pun to end a review with.)

I almost forgot the third and final part of these DJ stories. It involves the usual butt kicking and the good guys winning, and even with so many things gone wrong, this issue manages to end on a hopeful note, with none other than DJs Girlfriend, Pandora coming to his aid. Way to go, Pandora!

More than anyone, it is the character of Inspector Rahul Singh that comes across as most clichd to me, right from his lone ranger shtick to his frustration at the laziness (and most probably greed) of his seniors. Ah, how I miss the "fighting against the establishment" days of the quintessential "Angry Young Man" of Hindi movies, Amitabh Bachchan.

This Devi, unlike her predecessor, not only feels but also is intrigued by emotions and other afflictions of the human condition (hunger, want, sweat!), a development which is sure to make things interesting for her (and possibly between her and Rahul).

Lest I forget, Iyams back and although a character on the dark side, there is something about him, some hidden depth (at least thats how I view him) about him that has me hoping to see more of him. Him, Kratha the apsara assassin, the upcoming Falchion, Tara, uh, okay I give up, lets just include all the characters, except Okuma. Him I could do without.

Proclamation: In somewhat doldrums since the end of the Bala story, Devi seems to be finally finding some footing. Here's hoping that it isn't just a temporary development and that the title as well as its characters continue to carry on and not lose their wayagain.

Proclamation: There are talks/rumours of End League becoming an ongoing monthly. To quote Martha ex-JailBird Stewart, "and that is a good thing."

Proclamation: Solid writing and equally competent art working hard to inject some life into a cult classic albeit somewhat tired storyline.

Proclamation: With one more issue to go and even though I am not closer to (wanting to) watch the movie its based on I am looking forward to the last issue of the Evil Dead comic series.

A good enough first read, this series has an interesting if not original plot premise going for it. A possible futuristic Dick Tracy? Sure, why not, especially if the creative team can maintain the undercurrent of humor that I got while reading this opener.

Come on DC, give Firestorm a chance too! After all as the saying goes, "Whats good for the goose is good for the gander!"

Even with the odd "extra" panel, (Batmans "brooding" for one), this issue of Green Arrow plays out like other ten Post-IC issues before it. With snappy writing complemented by the always-impressive Scott McDaniel, Judd Winick has not only made me return to this series month after month, he has actually made me give a damn about a male archer other than Conner Hawke.

Nora Frieze, Jean Loring, Jillian Pearlmen, Cassandra Cain. These are but four names in the upcoming character "class." Following in the illustrious footsteps of "Women in Refrigerators," the DC writers/creators bring you, "Women in Liquid Nitrogen." Yeah, now they dont outright kill and mutilate them (necessarily not in that order), they just freeze them, shatter them and put them together in as a bizarre way as it suits their fancy. Then again, between this and what is happening to DCs premier female character, Wonder Woman, both in the first arc and now in the second one, I must say, given an (first hand experience) option, Id much rather have this. At least this way, it can be "corrected" with any cockamamie reason (e.g. injections of evil).

There isnt much I can say about why I get this title except, well, "just because." Its a sort of secret poison. Its just easy, laid back, no-continuity and character screw-ups caused headache fun.

Proclamation: Despite the "continuity" niggles, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" is a fairly fast paced and enjoyable story.

It just might be an honest mistake, a slipup, but the last panel has "To Be Concluded!" plastered at its bottom right corner. I was under the impression that this is a four part mini (not including #0). So shouldnt there be a "Continued" in place of the "Concluded" here?

With both the writing and art hitting all the correct notes, my time with this Highlander looks set to be (almost definitely) a long and more importantly, an enjoyable one. Now if only they could bring Duncan in.

Although I still have my fingers crossed for Duncan Macleod, I find myself getting used to even "that other one," Connor.

After a rather slow and seemingly stumbling start, this mini has gathered speed, building up momentum to the point that even if let go right now, it will cruise to a smooth ending. Too bad, I want an explosive one. Thankfully it appears writer Ron Marz does too.

Hope this isnt the last we see of Jeremiah and if possible, Emma and the others. One big point though: I do hope that whenever it happens, the next Jeremiah story doesnt take this long to reach completion. Ten months? Come on. Either market it as a bi-monthly right from the outset or keep up with the schedule. This last issue was the most glaring with the "will happen when it happens" delays.

An interesting opening, I could see myself getting this series on a regular basis, and suggesting it to anyone interested..., well..., anyone old enough to read a "Mature" rated comic.

Proclamation: Even with its Law & Order meets The Royals (that a show?) starting The Megas #1 irrigates the field of the basic story premise enough to get me to return next month to see it grow.

FYI, New World Order was the title of the now legendary first arc (issues #1-4) of the previous JLA series, with creators Grant Morrison, Howard Porter, John Dell, Pat Garrahy.

PROCLAMATION: Even though it doesn't have me grappling to get my hands on any and every type of spy drama (print, video, or other), Left on Mission does get a place in my list of suggested reads for the espionage aficionados in my circle of family and friends.

In the end, it was the smallest thing that held me the most. At 02-13-1915 (13th February, 1915), the date to which Midnighter gets transported is exactly ninety-one years and ten months from the day that this issue came to the stands. Two mentions (in the story) and still the creators managed to match it to the exact release date, and release the issue on schedule. Nice.

With one more issue to go, I for one am looking to read what comes after that. Thanks to Ennis, Midnighter has taken off quite well but at this early juncture in the series, it is very important that both the tone and pacing (set by Ennis) be at least maintained. With a writer change scheduled with issue #7, heres hoping that Brian K. Vaughan does so. Then again seeing BKVs track record (at least what I have read of his), I am looking forward to his take on the Midnighter, even though I will be missing Ennis.

Next month's issue will be written by Christos Gage and the one after that will be written by the J-Twins, Jimmy Palmotti and Justin Gray. Normally I would object to so many changes in writers, but comic book titles don't normally have one excellent writer being replaced by another excellent writer(s). Heres to The Midnighter becoming The Legends of the Dark Knight of the Wildstorm universe. Heres to "Legends of the Midnighter."

Though I'm not a big fan of comic space adventures, I will be sticking it out to the end of this mini, if only because of getting almost double the bang for my buck. (The usual comic costs $4 Cdn and has 22 pages; Mystery in Space gives almost 40 with just $1.50 Cdn more i.e. $5.50). That the writing and art are more than good makes the deal all that sweeter.

Ape Entertainment seems to be making a habit of bringing excellent, intriguing and totally newbie accessible stories to the readers. Nightmare World is the latest such example.

Though not quite the juggernaut that the last issue made it out to be, this arc is developing quite smoothly, and is on its way to accomplish what it is intended to do, reestablish both Nightwing and Dick Grayson. Still, what happened to the mysterious silhouette from the last issue?

Nightwing, as with Tim Drake (Robin) is off to a good start here, but with One Year Later, DC has done a shoddy job of properly handling their Pre-IC past, shadowing (if not outright neglecting) it in favor of the so called "fresh start."

Comic-book soap opera, only with powers; this series is that and much more. In an industry chock full of "super action" superhero comics, the Nobles have found their niche in providing an escape into the dramatic.

Proclamation: Even though it might not have the "new series smell" of its younger sibling, Dynamo 5, Noble Causes nevertheless continues to be what set out to be: a capes & tights superhero soap-opera.

Now if only Boom Studios! could get its act together on the main Planetary Brigade title, by which I mean publish more (and frequent) Planetary Brigade issues/stories.

Even though some things are still "in the air," I am getting settled with this particular Ramayana. A smooth ride it isnt, but an interesting one, it sure is turning out to be.

Heres hoping that this wasnt the last issue of one of the best futuristically-mythological series in the market.

Will I be getting a second issue? Not sure, but then I wouldnt count myself as the target for this title (not being the tired old fart I am). However, for a reader looking to get something less sugary than Sabrina, TTW and less high school-drama than S-M Loves Mary Jane or for that matter more mature than the Johnny DC/Marvel Adventure titles, Razor Kid gets my vote.

Proclamation: I am so looking forward to the next issue.

Proclamation: Going into the final home stretch Grimm Fairy Tales: Return to Wonderland has a lot of momentum behind it. Given how the rest of it has been, I am very much looking forward to the end and have absolutely no idea of what it will be.

With next issues Girls Gone Wild: Taking Down a Cop special, I have just three words left to say. To quote Aah-nold, Ill be Back!

Proclamation: A thoroughly enjoyable read both in regards to the writing and the artwork.

Linear storytelling and realistic art come together for a strong foundation for (what I hope and) what looks to be a thoroughly engrossing tale.

Proclamation: A good opening. Hoping that the follow-ups are equally entertaining.

Proclamation: As with the 30 Days of Night spin-offs, the Silent Hill stories start off at a rather sedate pace and build up as plot progresses. And even though it might not be particularly mind-blowing, Silent Hill: Sinners Reward #1 does set up a good foundation.

As if Gages writing and storytelling wasnt enough, even the art reminds of when the Justice League was actually a "Super-hero" series (with a capital-S) and not just a glorified soap opera. It might not have the big star name creative teams or the big name characters of DCs team titles (or even Wildstorms own WildCATs and The Authority), but as a team comic, Stormwatch: PHD is easily inches if not head and shoulders above quite a few of them.

As a standalone, this story works quite well in what it aims to do. A young, somewhat innocent and out of his element (with his darkness powers) Jackie is something that hasnt been seen for quite some time, and even though I wont be going in for the video game, I will thank it (the game) and Image/Top Cow for making this possible, as also for the upcoming The Darkness series. After all, it has been over a year since second series ended.

Proclamation: Although not necessary deeper (in plot) than the previous issue, this one definitely scores higher on the enjoyment scale.

Proclamation: Yet another Goon mystery gets on its way.

Proclamation: Nice "Summer Blockbuster" style start. I hope it turns out X2 (X-Men United) good, not X3 (Final Stand) horrible.

At the end of the day everyone is happy and, more importantly, together (especially at the party to welcome the new millennium) and even a crappy pants like myself ended this issue with a smile. A few more (timely) issues like this one and even I will be able to get off my high horse and get on with a monthly format for this story. Still, that was one killer TPB.

First of all, those of you still having your hands up, please put them down. Secondly, just so I don't finish the review without revealing the identity of the villain(s) here, i.e. the Virulents, they are a "species" of terrorist, Vampire Terrorists to be exact.

Best line of the story Once you go FAT, youll never go back.

The Witchblade-verse is at its most newbie-friendly point in years. In Danielle Baptist Ron Marz has done something rare in todays comic world: introduce and set up a "legacy" character without killing off the previous mantle-bearer (preferably in some ultra-violent manner).

Compared to the "hit over the head" baton change that has taken place with quite a few other characters recently (heres looking at you DC), the change of the guard in Witchblade comes across as not only more organic but also one that leaves just enough suspense about the longevity of this particular change.

Although still not quite perfect and newbie friendly, 30 Days of Night: Eben & Stella is a fast paced, tightly knit story, all brought together by some killer art.

Proclamation: As clichd the plot premise and character (inspirations) are, the final product of Kevin Rubios Abyss does make for a good time pass read.

I would like the future issues to come out on time and not be afflicted by the same "delayed" illness as this issue. An Ant fan right from the start, I am quite interested in what new direction the new writer (and Mario Gully), take Ant, both the character and series.

A time pass read for everyone, this issue leans more towards the female demographic. Then again with a name such as Betty, it isnt meant to be a hardcore action series, is it?

An easy clean-entertainment read albeit one with similar stories.

Although consisting of the instantly familiar (and some just too familiar), Bump #1 is a well written and illustrated tightly knit adequately paced series opener.

Though not a blockbuster, for an opener this issue is more than acceptable. Maybe hardcore twine fans would find it more captivating, but even a passing fan such as yours truly was able to enjoy it enough to be back for the next issue.

I want Brandy to be added to Connors regular supporting cast. Her banter with Eddie reminds me to the movie The Whole Nine Yards and its Ten sequel. The only difference is that this is actually funny.

Will Dark Xena #1 get me to check out the TV show? Not on my life. How about previous Xena comic series? Not quite sure. Well, how about this mini (to its completion)? Definitely, provided the writing and artwork remain the same.

An enjoyable if a bit decompressed issue.

Starting with a classic story as its base, the creators of Dinowars: The Jurassic War of the Worlds have given it a dinosaur sized twist, one that although not scoring high on the originality meter is nevertheless a light interesting read. At the end of the day, that is what got me to go in for these first two issues, something I hope to continue for the remaining two.

A bit faster paced on the story front and as impressive as ever with the art. Things seem to be looking up for Drain.

As far as issues go, this one wasnt as fun a read as the others, mostly because instead of the two there was just one story here. Still, I did enjoy Miki a lot and look forward to seeing more of her.

While it was nice to see there being some actual "side-effects" of what Jason did to Tokomak, especially how "personal" it is/was to the Firestorm trio (Jason, Lorraine, Stein), I am especially thankful for Moore not pulling a "WiR" (Women in Refrigerators) routine on Gehanna. In a time when many a writer plays this "shock value" card, it is nice to read a writer treat supporting characters as actual people and not just clay pigeons in a shooting gallery.

Proclamation: Good but not quite as enjoyable as the main series. This one is mainly for the veteran readers, especially since the main series isnt at all difficult to get into (for new readers) in the first place. Still, a nice time-pass, just dont let the kids of your household get a hold of it.

Proclamation: Although not quite as strikingly original story as the mini, the Hero by Night ongoing is shaping up quite nicely.

At this point it has become a case of beating an old broken drum, but reading and enjoying issue after issue of Invincible only makes the glaring difference between this series and Kirkmans work on Ultimate X-Men all the more pronounced and disheartening. Battle Pope serves as the proverbial salt in the X-wound.

After a forgettable two issues (for someone who cares neither for Hawkman or for the current Hawkgirl title), JSA:C returns with yet another whodunit mystery, only this time it is as much of a whatdunit as a who.

PROCLAMATION: A couple of interesting developments, a rather dragged out fight scene and an acceptable enough cliffy ending, all in all Jungle Girl #2 is an okay enough read. Still, although not bad by itself the "okay" is a step down from the "good" of issues #0-1.

A very big plus for this title is that unlike their League counterparts, the JSAs Big Three didnt go through almost three issues sitting around doing nothing except ogling at photographs.

Proclamation: What the next issue will bring I dont know but I am definitely interested to see how this story is finally brought home.

Winnick does a great job of maintaining a tight continuity (it helps that this series has been his from day one with issue #1). That said, I think it is time for the Outsiders to come inside a bit, and by that I mean get some proper interaction going with the general DCU (as also other heroes). And no, before anyone says another word, by interaction I do not mean lamoid crossovers/guest stars as was Agent Diana Prince showing up in Teen Titans #41. (Could Dianas behavior be written any more air-headed teenage-ish? Maybe if they had her doing a sleepover with Wonder Girl, Miss Martian, Raven and Ravager.)

Even with the artwork not quite working out and horribly so in many places, there is a lot going on this issue right up to the cliffhanger ending. My only question now is, where is Shatrughan?

Although it is given that Sam wouldnt survive the final page fight, the ending keeps in with the rest of the story style and in the grand scheme of things works out as a nice send off to Sam Noir: Samurai Detective.

I cant help but compare Scarlett to the other "reluctant hero" female protagonist series I read this week, Virgin Comics Devi. Apart from their powers and setting, it is interesting to see the way in which both these characters (Scarlett and Tara) feel and deal about their "predestined duty."

The art, though a dampener, is good enough (or not bad enough) to take away from the general tone of the story. That said, I would like to have at least one complete Shadowpact story arc completed by the same art team.

Great art, fast paced action and snappy character moments. Sadly, the mediocre and repetitive plots are getting to be a downer.

A step up from the previous issue but not quite as deep as the one before (my favorite issue of this series so far).

Is this the first of many zombie-titles I will be devoting myself to reading? No. Am I 100% sold on even this title and ready to put my money down for every future issue? No on that too. Am I sold enough to give it a second try, and maybe even possibly a third? Yes. Sure.

I've been a Trekkie since the time I first recall (due to having older brothers who were Trekkies themselves), but this issue was my first "To boldly go where" foray into the comic-Trek universe, and if the upcoming issues are anything like this one, this mission is going to be a successful one.

Good fast paced story, complemented and added-on by equally competent artwork, those are my closing words about this story. I understand that veteran TMNT readers might feel otherwise, but for (here I go again) a newbie, this is a near perfect story to get Turtling. That said, I wouldnt mind seeing a colored version of this (if only to accentuate the impressive pencil and inkwork).

As far as reading tastes go, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre is the most serious of all three movie-horror titles currently being published by Wildstorm Productions.

Proclamation: Good by (other) comic standards, this issue scores a mere OK for a The Goon story.

With a good starting plot but not too deep meaning in the end, the "Ultimate Knights" dont quite live up to their promise.

I am not quite certain about the change. Even though I am leaning towards the negative side, both because to me Sara is THE witchblade-bearer and because many such changes end up being temporary ones, I am looking forward, albeit warily, to how, why and for long this plays out.

Even though the purpose of these Worldstorm specials is still a mystery to me (other than being a preview of upcoming series and/or stories), as individual standalone reads go, Worldstorm #2 is a fairly decent investment, once again, unlike the one it follows.

Proclamation: Will give Afterburn one more go with the hope that it develops enough plot and character depth so as not to make me regret my choice.

Proclamation: With the flunky moments offsetting the energy generated by the funny & action filled moments, Army of Darkness / Xena #1 left me feeling more than a bitindifferent.

A classic in the making it sure isnt but as far as getting an "early days" Bat-story across to the readers, both old and new, Andy Diggles opening arc of Batman Confidential makes for a more than adequate read.

Eccentric artwork aside, "Rules of Engagement" is turning out to be quite an interesting story though admittedly, I wasnt too excited by this issues dictatorial development.

Full marks for fast paced, decompression-hiding action but even the best action doesnt fully cover the fact that the big "national level" threat here wasnt all that threatening. A rather tame ending to a promising start.

Readers will recognize Santa and Jesus opening pose as the same one that Jesus has with Pope (which itself is a parody of a classic Batman and Robin one). Though not a classic in the making and full of juvenile digs at established icons (religion or otherwise) Battle Pope does make for an easy tension free read. I usually start a review for this series with a warning for readers who might be offended by the characters and tone of Battle Pope. However, at this late juncture in the story, I take most of them must have already departed. Still, even if it is at the very end of the review, consider this a warning for new readers.

This isnt so much so a last issue as it is an abrupt-stop. However, Battle Pope Fans can take comfort with the reveal of the upcoming THE ALL-NEW New Adventures of Battle Pope, possibly early 2008. Heres hoping that that possibility becomes a reality, one as funny as Battle Pope.

*Ellis explains his "bet" at the end of the issue.

Am I going to go out and rent the Chucky flicks? Nope. I am not a big fan of the horror (movie and or comic) genre and this mini isnt going to change that. However, based on this issue's opening, I just might end up tagging along with this story to its completion.

PROCLAMATION: Not quite a hit, not quite a miss, but rather somewhere in between. Still, I am more than willing to give Criminal Macabre: My Demon Baby the benefit of the doubt (for now). Why? Two words: Steve Niles.

The Government as the bad guys is one of the oldest and clichd plot-angles, one used to death, not only in comics, but also movies, books, TV shows, etc. As with Scott Cayce, I do hope that this also gets dealt with and soon at that.

Now then, a lesbian vampire, where have I seen that before? Oh yea, (Chaos Comics) Purgatori. I am not saying that it is entirely clichd but come on, its as novel as Dracula being the proverbial vampire horn-dog, (what with all those smokin hot scantily clad "wives" of his).

With my usual "Trial of Three (issues)" over, I am strongly tempted to let Drain go down the proverbial drain. Only the artwork is going to entice me to flip-through the next issue rather than just passing it outright.

Proclamation: Last issues continuity niggles grow to full fledged problems in what is one of the weaker issues of the series.

Even though (with the current PC configuration) I wont be able to play the video game, as a comic Hellgate: London looks to be an interesting enough read, even if it isnt big on originality. Then again, it is a video game comic and as such holds itself up just fine.

A niggle about Duncan. Having read this issue, I came off feeling a bit ripped-off mostly because his portrayal here didnt quite match the one from the TV series (if only because of his "emotional detachment").

Proclamation: The story starting to drag a bit. The good thing is that it ends next issue/month.

Even though things get a bit together towards the end of this issue, there are still too many loose/forgettable ends here. Heck, even in a TPB read this particular "chapter" would distinguish itself as the odd man out.

In its own way, this issue makes for a good jumping on point for a new reader. Even if he/she will not be able to get all the nuances and back-stories, there isnt all that much here that will confuse them.

Proclamation: Loses some of the momentum set on by the first issue.

A good start but mediocre plot development and content means Sam Noir: Samurai Detective retains its standing as the best Sam Noir mini.

As for further comments about the story plot and writing, those I will hold out until I get my hands on and read issue #1, for, just with any other zero issue, Scarletts Curse #0 is (and should be taken as) more of a teaser than an actual issue. However, unlike another zero issue I read not long ago, this one actually is relevant to the story at hand and not just, well, whatever the #0 issue of DC's latest JLA series was.

Despite the added development of the supporting cast, Snake Woman's plotline still isnt all that interesting, which is a shame given its brisk pacing.

Its been a ride and definitely an enjoyable one. Good luck to Takeshi in his future ventures, and I hope that DC gives Sean some nice meaty title/character when he finally moves to their side. As for this series, who knows, I just might be back next month to continue until the time Sean finally departs from it.

Although it still feels disjointed in places, and although I would have much rather have half of the previous issue as a issue #0 and the other half as part of a first issue (along with about 2/3rd of this one), StrongArm #2 deals with quite a few queries and confusions from the issue it follows. That said, I cant help but feel that this story has been written as a graphic novel (which it will read better as) and then just split up into five parts in order to be released as a monthly serial.

Now, if only the players would get here so that it can actually begin.

About the issue's ending, I just have one thing for Mr. Bendis: I know there is going to be some drama to come out of it, but please dont drag it out to death and beyond. After all, if the "rumor mill" is to be believed, a certain Johnny hot-head is on the look out for a girlfriend.

Quirkiest character of the issue? Jessica Jones. Her mixture of drunk-ditzy and overly enthusiastically-frisky just won me over.

In the end Among the Dead #1 comes off as a printed-webcomic. Nevertheless, it shows promise and just needs some more work, both in the art and the story.

If done with more detail, this story could have worked well in the new Batman Confidential series, with the younger Bruce Wayne working as a better protagonist than the more than a decade older one here.

Proclamation: For John Rogers, Dont make me get the Spectre on your case for your torturing of your fans (by your absence). Get back to Blue Beetle.

Although it sports some snappy dialogues and fast action scenes, and of course the lively artwork as a whole, Danger Girl: Body Shots #1 comes across more as a disjointed and mismatched puzzle than as a fine finished piece of art.

Probably the weakest issue of this series so far. Still, given its track record, I am hopeful that this was just a once in a while faltering and future issues will return with the same pacing and excellence of the previous ones.

Proclamation: Will I read another "issue" of Gunplay? Only if I get it as a free copy. I'd much rather advise waiting until the entire Graphic Novel comes out before giving it a go.

The story was acceptable enough, but with the art bogging it down, the overall experience of "Nightfall" ended up more on the negative side of the scale than positive.

PROCLAMATION: Two issues in I am already counting months to when this arc will be over and done with.

Although not a bad read, Warhammer 40,000: Damnation Crusade doesnt quite hit the spot. Maybe Boom! should have done this as a double sized (or maybe a #0) issue. That would have allowed for more of a story than the one we have here.

The Son of the Demon was an Elseworlds/AU story that should have been left where it was. What exactly did this arc accomplish other than canonizing one of the worst Bat-stories that I ever read is beyond me? One can safely say that this isnt the last we see of Talia, so unless he is dead and gone, Damiens future is slated to be one of being an Anti-Robin to Talias Anti-Bat.

Proclamation: This issue seriously needed a prelude of sorts. Left on its own, Foundation #1 has very little to stand on, let alone generate any substantial interest for future issues.

This story could definitely use a #0 issue or even a #1/2 issue, not only to provide a quick backstory but to define the characters enough. I understand that will come later, but as I mentioned before, the pace at which this story takes off, a new reader (which will be every single person reading/buying it) feels utterly and totally lost.

There is nothing very wrong with Strongarm but at the same time there isnt all much that is right either.