Christopher R. Ford Comic Reviews

If you are looking for a new comic that mixes the familiar with the very unique, this is an issue well worth checking out.

Abbott: 1979 #3 continues the series' unique vision. A mix of 70's blaxploitation and hard-boiled detective tale with some supernatural thrown in for good measure. Things are becoming both clearer and more convoluted for Elana as she is trying to balance work, family, and heroism now. Surprises and revelations abound from beginning to end in this issue. This is the fastest moving and most visually arresting issue in the run and can serve as either an excellent jumping-on point for new readers or the best edition so far for those already in the loop.

Whether it's fighting a classic foe, saving his son from a space dictator, or stopping some bombs of Baghdad, Superman is that hero. Action Comics #1026 mixes traditional Superman action with political intrigue and corporate espionage. It's an excellent entry in this long running comic book line with stories that can go in a few different (and hopefully interesting) directions.

Amazing Spider-Man: Blood Hunt #1 is different but sometimes, different is good.

He reunites with Catwoman for a great scene. The true complexity (and perhaps eventual doomed nature) of their relationship is on full display. Chip Zdarsky's writing is sharp, grounding their convo, and all of these far-out situations, in gritty reality.

With a satisfying ending that includes a heartfelt epilogue, Bishop: War College #5 is a well-done conclusion to the Bishop-lead, non X-Men, X-Men story we didn't know we needed. It will be interesting to see who if any of his students will be called up to the Big Leagues and officially become X-Men after this. And in true comic book fashion, it all sets up more time-hoping, mutant saving adventures for Bishop in the futureor pastor present

Marvel's Blood Hunt event has an intriguing overall premise with Marvel heroes being turned into vampires and fighting their non-infected brethren. But the conflict with the most potential is the Black Panther vs. Blade. Blade's mental grip on T'Challa is more than a means to an end, it's personal. Where things go from here should be interesting. So far so good as, Black Panther: Blood Hunt #1 has gotten the series off to an incredible start and is the first must-read of the character runs.

It's the beginning of a new arc for one of Marvel's most well-known yet underutilized heroes. And the creative team looks to be tapping into some of the things that make Blade, Blade (vampires and werewolves, guns and swords, etc.) while presenting new enemies and allies to take the character in potentially new directions. The first issue grabs the reader's attention and is something both Blade fans and action comic fans should be on the lookout for.

Overall, this has been one of the best Blade runs in a very long time and Blade #5 keeps up the story's strong momentum.

Blade #6 presents intriguing new takes on both Blade and Dracula. And their brief mentor-mentee relationship goes to some dark yet interesting places.

Good or bad, major crossover events grab headlines. A world-wide, simultaneous vampire invasion that catches the Avengers completely off-guard and scrambling just to survive is intriguing. And the twist in this issue? Chief's kiss. In Blood Hunt #1, the stakes are high and there is no clear way out of this extinction-level-event for our heroes. The writing and the art are both top-notch and the issue has a final panel they might go down as THE final panel of the year. What a start for the series. Go read this issue.

Perhaps surprisingly, this is one of the best issues in the Blood Hunt series to date. At minimum, the variety in the art and the storytelling combine to make Blood Hunters #1 the most original issue thus far. All the characters are on separate missions spread throughout New York. Will they meet up? Only one seems to have a plan so far, so what are their roles in the larger conflict? There are a lot of questions and even more directions these heroes can go in. It will be interesting to see what happens next.

Action, horror, goth, humor (thanks Spike), Buffy the Last Vampire Slayer #5 has everything you'd expect from a title with the Buffy named attached.

Captain America #3 continues this new arc for Steve Rogers that is part throwback, part forward thinking masterpiece. In this issue, ambitious storytelling meets bold art choices. It's trippy and cool, adjectives not usually associated with Marvel's resident goody-two-shoes. Is a young Steve teaming up with real-life villain? And a dangerous and powerful old foe shows up in the modern timeline ready to rumble. Things are heating up for Cap and this issue masterfully sets the table for a potential epic run.

Sticking the landing in a series is no easy task, but Captain Wolf and the Howling Commandos #5 provides and exciting finale issue with a satisfying conclusion to the overall arc. If you have enjoyed reading the first four issues, #5 is an absolute must-read.

Placing old characters in new roles can be a tricky proposition. But in Dracula: Blood Hunt #1, Dracula's switch from antagonist to protagonist goes as smoothly as can be. He's still the cold, calculating, head vampire in charge make no mistake. Moves are being made without his authorization and there will be hell to pay. Saving the world may just be a byproduct of it all.

It's been 83 years since The Flash made his debut and reaching 800 issues is an amazing achievement in the comic book game. The grandmaster Flash shows no signs of slowing down and this latest issue celebrates his past and sets up an intriguing future for DC's scarlet speedster.

This may be an offshoot of the main Spawn storyline, and doesn't star everyone's favorite tortured soul Al Simmons, but Gunslinger Spawn is showing it should not be ignored.

An open and personal autobiography and a heartfelt ode to an artist who had a profound impact on the author's life. A soulful and heartfelt representation of a man's life, love, and music. An original and creative work of art about one of the most original and creative artists of our time. In Search of Gil Scott-Heron is an absolute must read for hip-hop heads and comic fans alike.

The stage is set, sides have been chosen, and the battlefield ready. It's time to determine the one Joker to rule them all. The battle in the next issue is shaping up to be a real gas.

Justice Ducks #3 is a fun and funny read. The Justice Duck team is such a loveable group of crime fighting ducks (and a dinosaur) and it such a treat to look at, it's hard to be in a bad mood while reading this comic. The reporter's lines at the beginning and end of the issue are worth the price of admission alone. Fans of Darkwing Duck will thoroughly enjoy this issue. It also makes the series easy to jump into, serving as an excellent starting point for someone interested in this comic book run.

King Spawn #23 is a setup issue and isn't heavy on the action or over-the-top with the gore. And fair warning, the issue is short. But it is sweet as well thanks to some great writing and amazing art. If anyone knows it's dark and hell is hot, it's Spawn. And for all the trouble Spawn finds himself in at the end of the issue, it looks like something even bigger and badder is waiting in the wings Things are heating up for hell's favorite son.

Knight Terrors #1 is a worthy read and a fun start to a potentially epic comic event.

Knight Terrors #2 is fantastic and it will be very interesting to see what happens to Deadman and Sandman in the next issue.

As a main issue, Knight Terrors #3 has to make big moves. It delivers and is the most eventful issue in the entire series to this point.

As the penultimate issue in the main storyline, Knight Terrors #4 has to hit hard and get readers excited to see how it all ends. This issue delivers.

Major events that affect entire comic book universes are always exciting, During Knight Terrors readers will visit the deepest darkest corners of the minds of many of DC's most famous and infamous characters. And even though it's nightmare/horror themed, thanks to the writing in this first issue, it's also giving a fun summer blockbuster movie feel. Issue #1 is as fun as it is terrifying so this storyline could be a roller-coaster ride all the way through. It's certainly off to an entertaining and intriguing start.

As fun as a nightmare can be of course, Knight Terrors: Action Comics #1 is just a vibe. Wall climbing, scary dark hallways, personal fears, a campy trash-talking villain, the issue has it all.

It's cool to see DC giving a character like Angel Breaker some shine in this major event. And it's even cooler to see them giving her a good story to boot. Read this issue if you are a fan of the character, a follower of this series, or both. Highly recommended.

Knight Terrors: Batman #1 is a highly recommended read. The art and the writing mesh in this issue in a truly special way. To portray The Batman's nightmares in a way that is refreshing and stunning is no easy feat. And the reveal of Batman's truest fear is as shocking as they come. There are things at play here that can change the psyche of Batman forever. It will be very interesting to see how this story continues to play out through the Knight Terrors event.

Is this real or is Batman still trapped in his Nightmares? The ending raises more questions than delivers answers. But with a heartfelt moment in the midst of madness, Knight Terrors: Batman #2 manages to both grow the character and move along the greater story. Definitely a must read.

Knight Terrors: Black Adam #1 is cool, it's intriguing, and it is short. Very short. 22 pages to be exact. And just when it starts getting good, it ends. There is a cliffhanger that raises more questions than it answers (on purpose of course). This is a teaser issue through and through. Fortunately, it does pique the curiosity to find out what happens next.

Catwoman has turned over a new leaf in her real world but finds herself stuck in an off-version of her past life. She's reunited with her sister, but they are struggling to reconcile. It's not so much nightmarish and it's kind of sad, or at least, bittersweet. There is a particular part where she fully realizes she's in a dream and actually wants to be there, it's quite touching really. Her nightmare seems to be her past and regrets which makes Knight Terrors: Catwoman #1 one of the most personal entries in the series to date.

The action heats up in this issue and the ending is explosive but a lot is thrown at the reader with minimal set-up and/or exploration. And in the end Knight Terrors: Catwoman #2 does more to set up Catwoman's future adventures than progress the Knight Terrors storyline. All that said though, the issue is a great character study and highly recommended for Catwoman fans.

Gotham lends itself quite well to nightmare themed tales. And as one of the city's most grizzled residents, a man that's "seen it all, Jim Gordon would experience one of the darkest nightmares. Part horror, part old-school detective story, Knight Terrors: Action Comics #1 is what both Action Comics and the Knight Terrors series are all about.

Jim Gordon is one of the most beloved characters in DC Comics. He may not be a superhero but is a hero without a doubt. He wears his heart on his sleeve and he has been put through as much as anyone in comics. And with that being sad, this tale could be one of his most emotionally trying episodes ever. But he does what he does, and endures to the bitter end. Knight Terrors: Detective Comics #2 is a nightmarish detective tale fans of the darker side of Gotham must read.

Knight Terrors: Green Lantern #1, despite being nightmare themed, is a Green Lantern enthusiast's dream. Long-time fans will enjoy the slighter off-kilter version of "This is Your Life. And those new to the character can get a basic idea of his origin story. Hal goes through a lot in this issue. And we have a new leader in the clubhouse for most disturbing panel. No spoilers, but you'll know it when you see it. All this and he hasn't even faced his greatest fear yet!

It's action, it's horror, it's funny, it's nostalgic. It's a 20 plus page shoutout to a DC legacy character that sometimes doesn't get the props he deserves.

Knight Terrors: Harley Quin #1 is a must read for those following the entire series.

This is an inventive issue and a must read for Harley fans.

Being trapped in Arkham Asylum is a problem in the real world, so a nightmare version is even worse. But the fact that that isn't even his worst fear says a lot. The mystery/thriller vibe of the issue is well done with nearly perfect pacing. In addition, there are some great villain cameos and a nod to the character's very origins. Lastly, Knight Terrors: Nightwing #1 sets a dramatic stage for the entire Bat clan within this nightmare realm. Nightwing really goes through it in this issue but he is intent on fixing everything. And the final bombshell at the end sets up an explosive conclusion for issue #2.

Knight Terrors: Nightwing #2 is a ride. Part prison-break story, part nightmare, part buddy comedy, part love story. And Scarecrow as a demented yet comedic sidekick is something the world didn't know it needed until now. Add some unique art and you have something that manages to be both terrifying and zany.

Knight Terrors: Poison Ivy #1 is its own out-the-box take on a classic DC character's nightmare and is an excellent standalone read.

In conclusion, Knight Terrors: Poison Ivy #2 combines complex and thrilling storytelling with innovative and creepy art to create one of the best off-shoots in the series.

Being Harley Quinn's replacement is no easy task. Punchline is not as "fun as Harley but she is dark and she is lethal. A perfect character for a nightmare themed storyline. And one the central terrifying questions being posed here is; what happens when no one is around to witness your greatest achievement? Interestingly enough, two characters one might think would show up are conspicuously missing, but this is only part one of the story. And with the way it ends, anything can happen/anyone could show up in issue two. As for now, Knight Terrors: Punchline #1 is a gorgeous nightmare well worth checking out.

Overall, this is a gorgeous nightmare and it's two-episode journey brings out a bit more of one of DC's newer characters. And who knows. She might just have a bigger role to play in the finale of the Knight Terrors saga.

DC giving Ravager her own arc in their major summer event over some of the company's heavy hitters may seem an odd choice at first glance. But is clear from this issue that Rose Wilson will play a major role in how the event as a whole unfolds. Until then, what additional horrors await Ravager? And mixed in with that horror, there are a couple of twist and turns in this issue to keep readers intrigued and wanting to see what happens next. Knight Terrors: Ravager #1 is a low-key must read for fans following the larger storyline.

Knight Terrors: Ravager #2 is a satisfying conclusion to Ravager's arc in the series. She gets to show her softer side while remaining a cool action hero. There are hints as to what's going on in the real world and it also sets up more for adventures for Ravagerand perhaps the Bat Family. Ravager faces her deepest nightmare head-on, and even though it's not pretty, it's very entertaining. For those who like a side of action with their horror, this is an issue well worth checking out.

In the end, Knight Terrors: Robbin #1 is a fascinating look at what motivated two kids to become sidekicks of the Dark Knight. It is an emotional ride for the characters and also the readers as the answers for both are quite dark. One particular panel featuring Tim having a breakdown inside the nightmare is so well written and drawn, it will stick with you afterwards. This may be Insomnia's cruelest nightmare yet. Can Jason and Tim put their personal issues to the side and escape? They might just need a miracle in issue #2.

To become a Robin is to either experience or invite darkness. That is explored here alongside the differences and similarities between these two versions of the sidekick. Their fears boil down to one not caring enough and the other caring too much. And they have to come to this realization to survive. A realization they need to hear from the other. It's a bit on the nose sure, but again, characters in the Batman universe are a particular brand of tortured souls and hearing them talk themselves up instead of down is good to see every once and a while.

Knight Terrors: Shazam #1 has a lot going on, and it can be confusing, but in a good way. The dream within a dream angle is very cool. And bad Billy Batson is also lowkey cool. But it comes down to this, Mary's love for her family is her strength and her weakness. Insomnia knows this and is using her fear of losing them to try and get what he's looking for. But does Mary even know where the Nightmare Stone is? Is there a part of this Billy Batson that is actually trying to help her? This is a unique look at the Shazam family and it all concludes with the most intense final panel in the series so far.

Knight Terrors: Shazam #2 puts its own unique spin of the nightmare realm concept and creates something that is actually hopeful and endearing.

The emotional storytelling and the art that is a mix and old school and new, come together to make one of the best issues in the Knight Terrors saga so far.

Knight Terrors: Superman #2 is a satisfying conclusion to the Superman arc that brings both something new and some comforting to fans of DC's iconic superhero.

Knight Terrors #1: The Flash is a ride. From beginning to end, it's difficult to tell which way is up and what will happen from one page to the next. Simply put, it is a must-read if you are following the Knight Terrors storyline.

Knight Terrors: The Flash #2 is an incredible issue that will stay with the reader for a very long time.

Quite simply, this is one of the most fascinating looks at the Joker that maintains his humor and keeps things light on the melodrama. Fans of the Joker must read Knight Terrors: The Joker #1.

While it may not add much to the Knight Terrors overall storyline and leaves a few questions unanswered, this is still a must read for fans of the Clown Prince of Crime.

Knight Terrors: Titans #1 is a classic case of too much to do and too little time to do it. Introducing a new character to lead the issue is a bold move but we'll have to wait until the second (and final) issue to see if it pays off. Until then, this is a solid issue but questions abound. Who is this new character that's helping the Titans? Are they all in the same nightmare? And if so, who's nightmare is it? There is an intriguing twist that has potential to make this one of the most unique nightmare scenarios. But again, we'll just have to wait and see how this story pans out.

Yes, the start was a little bumpy but issue #2 fills in every blank, answers every question, and still manages to surprise readers. This issue is a bold take on the Titans as a family and the Titan Tower as their home.

The way writer Josie Campbell mixes the heavy topics with some genuinely funny moments makes this issue a lot of fun to read.

Knight Terrors: Zatanna #1 stands out as the first character specific issue in the series to take place in the waking world. But it expertly incorporates the horror and nightmare themes that have made the overall arc so good to this point.

A well-done introspective exploration of what drives, molds, and scares heroes is always welcomed. And despite her parental issues being well traveled territory, it is presented here in a unique and emotionally relatable way. And the fact that her enemies are trying to take her alive hints at her importance to the (hopefully) epic finale. Readers of Zatanna and Knight Terror should definitely check this issue out.

Miles Morales: Spider-Man #13 Gang War is truly a classic Spider-Man comic book issue with everything you'd expect from the character. It's funny, it's fun, and it has heart.

Miles Morales: Spider-Man #14 Gang War continues the series' awesome run thus far. Bringing in the family conflict kicks things up a notch and makes things even more personal for Miles. But there is also balance. It's humorous, the pace is lighting quick, and the action is over-the-top comic book-y in the best way possible. Also throw in some great cameos (Peter finally re-enters the chat!) and an amazing cliffhanger/tease/reveal at the end, and you have another must-read issue.

As this interstellar, action-packed love story continues, all the players are now in place for a potentially even more explosive next issue. We'll be keeping our eyes open to see what happens next, and you should too.

In 1993, Milestone Comics became the first black-owned comic book publisher to hit the mainstream. It was founded by writers and artists Dwayne McDuffie, Denys Cowan, Michael Davis, and Derek T. Dingle to address the lack of African-American representation on the page and behind the scenes. 30 years later, the imprint and its characters are still having an impact in both areas. New Talent Showcase #1: The Milestone Initiative does a great job of honoring the company's past and its mission while pushing its characters into the future.

Again, the Rick and Morty series perfectly lends it's art, action, and comedic stylings to comics. And Rick and Morty #5's over-the-top jokes and over-the-top violence will keep OG fans happy and can even bring in someone who may be brand new to the mayhem.

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Finally, Scrapper #1 is a pup-filled superhero romp filled with action and intrigue. This new series delivers a new spin on the dystopian future with a truly unique new hero. Man's best friend is now man's best hope. This is a new series worth checking out.

It's interesting to see Vader in the mud so to speak doing the dirty work he usually relegates to others. Here Vader is explicitly the menace he's more often only spoken about being in hushed tones in the films. While others want to play the bad guy, Vader shows them all in this issue that there's levels to this. The only question left is which poor souls are next to catch his wrath.

Overall, the team behind the issue has done a good job of giving long-time Star Wars fans something new yet still comforting. New fun characters caught up in the timeless Star Wars Republic madness. Well worth checking out.

Static's is tested mentally, physically, and emotionally in this issue. The question of What makes a hero? Or even a villain is raised. This could be a major turning point in the life and career of this young superhero.

Is Storm really going to leave the X-Men? Leave her family? Who or what is the entity and what is its connection to Storm? Has she found true love? So many questions remain. Back-to-back shockers end the issue and make the Storm #3 a great warmup for what's next for Storm and the entire X-Men family.

Missing the "big names in the Marvel Universe, aside from Doc Strange, this could be an easily overlooked issue in the overall Blood Hunt saga. But not only is Strange Academy: Blood Hunt #1 a fun read, it's actually a must read. The issue lays out what the Marvel heroes must do to stop the zombie apocalypse. And I really want to spoil what's going on with the Darkhold but it's really worth seeing for oneself. If you are loving Blood Hunt, make sure to check this entry out.

Baking and reality television have been bedfellows for years, but linking up with comics? This is a new one that The Great British Bump Off will make you want another taste of.

The Schlub #5 is a throwback to comics of the 90's and early 00's. It doesn't take itself too seriously but gives the reader just enough emotional weight to want to see what happens to the characters. The writing is often on-the-nose, but in a good way. And it's mix of humor, action, and the lead character being both OP and a newbie, gives Shazam and Spider-Man vibes.

Tradition, superstition, politics, family, and love. There are so many ways to tell stories featuring any combination of these subjects. Ultimate Black Panther #1 is taking them all head on. So many potential conflicts are set up in this one issue, it will be interesting to see where Hill and company go story-wise and visually.

Major events need a lot of things, but most importantly, they need a great set-up. A seemingly unbeatable foe with a potentially multiverse-shattering plan? Check? A team starring some of the biggest names in comics with hints of more to come? Check. Cliffhanger ending that immediately makes you want to read issue #2? Check. Ultimate Invasion #1 is an exciting and intriguing kickoff to a storyline that looks to shake up the entire Marvel universe.

Great dialogue combined with some interesting (and informative) world-building help keep Ultimate Invasion #3 moving at a brisk pace. It's a comic featuring the likes of Iron Man, the Hulk, and Mr. Fantastic that manages to be incredibly intriguing and engaging without any of the aforementioned doing anything "cool. Which is a direct result of excellent writing and art coming together. And again, the final few panels alone look to shake up the entire series and set the stage for a very wild ride to come. This is highly recommended reading material.

It's easy to see that the writing and art team had a lot of fun creating Union Jack The Ripper: Blood Hunt #1. Well as much fun as a team can have writing an ultra-violent story about a foul-mouthed hero and the end of the world. FYI this issue is not for the kids as stated on the cover. But adults and fans of vampires and this, sometimes obscure, Marvel hero will have a great time roaming the dark streets of Manchester and discovering Jack's own secrets.

The return of one of the classic characters in all of popular culture to the comic book space is a welcomed one. And it's exciting to see this new version is off to such a good start. The mood is dark and ominous and doesn't let up for a page. It hits all the traditional Dracula beats, but in an intriguing new way.

More than likely, social media, and the net as a whole, will be the demise of us all. WOrldtr33 has a unique take on how exactly that will play out. But there is hope, Gabriel is a man with a plan and the government is on the case as well. However, there is definitely more trouble on the horizon for everyone attempting to fight the power.

Zawa + The Belly of the Beast #2 builds off the momentum of the series' introductory outing and kicks things up a notch. It's less action and more exposition (and food!) but things are far from boring. The new revelations explored in this issue set the table for the story to go in any number of ways. The ability to singlehandedly create and express his vision comes in handy for Dialynas as the art and writing fit perfectly together. He even does the lettering! It has been a fun and interesting journey to start and as the mystery and conflicts deepen, things should get even spicier.