Jorge Arena's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: Bounding Into Comics Reviews: 40
8.6Avg. Review Rating

If you're looking for a primer for the Animosity comic series, the World of Animosity is where I would start. You get enough detail about what's going on in the story without giving away critical details that you'd want to read yourself in the ongoing series. Marguerite Bennett's version of a Hero's Journeyis on strong display in this primer. Rafael de Latorre gives you the visuals that help to immerse you into a world of sentient animals. World of Animosity is a competing world, one I would recommend.

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Maestros #1 is more than just fantasy, sci-fi, or even a story. It's a fun journey into a whole new world of magic and chaos. If you're a fantasy fanatic than you should definitely pick this up; it's definitely geared towards fantasy fans. The issue is a great beginning for Maestros; however,I do hope that there is more character development as the series moves forward.

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If you're a fan of Star Trek, Star Trek: The Next Generation:Mirror Broken #3 is for you. The imagining of a darker EnterpriseD crew makes for a wonderful mental exercise. Writers David and Scott Tipton are able to expand a bit on the mirror universe while maintaining its contrast to the Alpha universe. J.K. Woodward puts together some good artwork. The realism in the art is very high quality. I was able to recognizea captainwho was on for two episodes just by looking at the comic. The colors though a little messy did a decent job at keeping up with the art.

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If you're looking for a fun story to jump into, Turok #1 is a great start. The story feels a little out of place, but the pacing is very well managed. The characters are done well, with the exception of Pigblood who drags on the eye.The panels are the highlight of this issue, very easy to read and follow. The colors bring it home by feeling both warm and pre-historic. So if you're a fan of the character or just getting introduced to him. This issue is a good start.

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Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. 1954 Ghost Moon #1 has good elements that work. But because of having two talented writers with Mike Mignola and Chris Roberson, it felt like the story had a lot to offer, but was pressed for time and rushed. Because of this it took some air out of good storytelling that was in this issue. The art by Brian Churilla was a real shining star. Not only because of his ability to use artistic metaphors, but in his ability to capture Hellboy in his art. The use of detail at key points does a good job of assisting the storytelling. Though the grid used for the panels could use a bit more work.

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Army of Darkness/Xena: Forever"And A Day #3 combines some of the best of cult classic entertainment. In one corner you have the Warrior Princess, one of the greatest warriors who walks the Earth and in the other corner you have Ash Williams, one of the greatest smart ass demon slayers to travel time. Together they create an entertaining story that blends well. With that said the character development with Xena does need a little more work, but it shines with Ash. The art by Diego Galindo is rich and detailed, but fails to match the themes that both of these classics share. And the color by Pete Pantezis are a bit too bright and felt out of place. Both artists are good at their craft, but seemed a bit lost in their direction with this issue. If you're a fan of one or both series, it is still worth a look because it provides good entertainment value.

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Star Trek: Waypoint #2 beams to your hands two tales based off the classic original series. One feels like it belongs as an episode of the series, and the second which brings to life some of the forgotten people in the background of the Enterprise. The art helps to bring the stories to life while the colors do their best to match the genre they are attempting to portray. Some of the dialog in the first story could have used a bit more work, it was still a good, fun read. The color in the second story could have done more to engage the eyes, but overall it did its job.

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In The Hunt #4, Orla's journey only becomes more intense. She frantically tries to save those she loves. The burden placed on her shoulders creates a character that is both complex and powerful at the same time. The art is taken to another level with the decaying monsters. However, the flashback sequence felt a touch out of place and would have fit better in a previous issue. Joana Lafuente's colors guide the eyes to the illustration and writing done by Colin Lorimer. Both of which do a tremendous job at creating a hauntingly beautiful world.

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Mayday #1 takes you on a time warp back to the height of the Cold War. Alex de Campi gives you two perspectives to view at the same time as each side races to outwit the other. A lot of detail was put into the story which left me happy with how it came out. Though the story felt slow at times, it was still a good ride. Tony Parker and Blond gives us the visual simulation you would expect from a Cold War invested drug crazed era. Though some of the panels felt off, the way the environment came off was really good.

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Samurai: Brothers in Arms #2 dives deeper into the motivations and narratives provided by Jean-Francois Di Giorgio's writing. We not only have a main story of the brothers, but side stories and motivations are now playing a greater role in this series. With these new side stories now we have to wait and see if those become more important as the future issues are released. Frederic Genet and Delphine Rieu provide you with a world that is bright and realistic, but is also deeply rooted in the comic tradition. Each character is given a fair amount of detail regardless of their importance in the story. The environment itself respects the culture in which this story comes from.

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Penny Dreadful #5 gives fans of the television show a brilliant end to the prequel. Not only are we given many of the whys and closings of the loose ends, but we are guided right into the first episode of the series. Both Chris King and Louie De Martinis finish strong in this finale. You're treated to a complex written world and an illustrated environment that sticks in your mind. As you finish this issue, you will be eagerly waiting for the next series of Penny Dreadful coming in 2017.

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The Hunt #3 continues our journey with Orla's as her priorities change. Now she's searching, trying to piece the puzzle together. At the same time we are doing the same thing with limited information. Colin Lorimer's story continues to evolve without abandoning what makes it a good story. He knows how to set the mood with his characters to bring out the reaction he wants from us as readers. His art also continues to provide me with ideas that I hope aren't true. The monsters he uses aren't extremely complex, but they're scary enough to where you wouldn't want to bump into them. Joana Lafuente gives us a world full of life and death with her colors. Less tinting is used in this issue, but she really brings it home in the last few pages.

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Demonic #3 takes the world from the last two issues and crams a lot more information for you to enjoy. Christopher Sebela writes a story is becoming increasingly complex that can be a little overwhelming. Both Niko Walter and Dan Brown us a visual journey our eyes deserve. The world is detailed but not overdone, and the color provided is attractive to the eyes as you go through each page.

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Red Dog #1 brings you to a world full of wonder and action. Rob Cohen gives us a story through the eyes of a growing child as he is trying to find his place on an unforgiving world. With ongoing narration blended with character dialog you're given everything you need to know about what's going on without feeling overwhelmed. Rob Atkins creates a world that is both unknown, but familiar for those who love sci-fi. His ability to create detail and add it where needed allows the story to grab your eyes and take you for a ride. John Rauch's coloring shines throughout this whole issue as you're on a world where night never comes.

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Dishonored #3 is looking to keep you on a dual journey. On one hand you're with Corvo trying to figure out what the heck is going on with his own family. And on the other, you're Martha, who isn't only trying to find Corvo, but trying desperately to piece the puzzle together. Witchcraft, weapons smuggling, and murder, how does it all tie in. Dishonored #3 gives us a who host of puzzles, though at times it feels a lot too much.

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Penny Dreadful #4 is now drawing people with different ideas together. Though they want to save Mina, each have their own idea on how to go about doing so. This allows the reader to enjoy a conflict within the party. Chris King's writing fleshes out this conflict and brings it to the forefront. Louie De Martinis continues his excellent work with the art. As the tone and style of the story changes, so does the art. The use of shadows and details brings to life the dialog and story.

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Star Trek Waypoint #1 delivers with two stories that will give fans of each television series plenty to enjoy. In the first story, we're given a look into the friendship of Captain LaForge and Commander Data as they are sent to investigate a strange and unknown ship. In the second story, we're given a simple tale of a stranded Uhura as she waits for the all clear to be beamed back aboard to the Enterprise. Though written by two different people, both stories do a great job at capturing the essence that each show had. Though if you're new to either series, you might lose some of the magic written to each story, but this issue is pretty solid.

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Demonic #2 picks up right where issue one left off. Now things are coming into focus for both Scott and the world around him. His pursuits and his propose is now clearer, and only time will tell if he can maintain this world view. The story continues to expand as more details are shown about the nature of the deal between Scott and Aeshma, and how it will affect those around him. In the last few pages, you're given a nice surprise which only makes you want to grab the next issue as quickly as you can. Christopher Sebela continues to give us a complex world full of people and questions, while Niko Walter and Dan Brown build us a world where our eyes capture the emotions written down.

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Samurai: Brothers in Arms #1 rushes into feudal Japan, with you in toe. The writing is well researched, and enjoyable. Characters enjoy just enough depth for a beginning issue without feeling overbearing. The art takes what's imagined by Di Giorgio and gives you structure to be able to move forward in the story, even though some of the panels could have been handled better. Finally, the color is rich, while keeping to the traditions of what is thought to be used for a Japanese-inspired story. Samurai: Brothers in Arms #1 is a good enjoyable story, that will leave you happily expecting issue two.

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In Cryptocracy #4 enemies are better known, but there is still not enough information to connect all of the dots. Van Jensen does a great job at keeping the story at bay by slowly revealing information at key points. This keeps you guessing as well as imagining what the answers could be. Pete Woods continues to craft a masterful world with his art. As our world is getting smaller with the dawn of the digital age, Pete builds a world so huge and vast that unimaginable beings can exist right under our noses. Cryptocracy #4 continues to push on what must be on the back of everyone's mind this election season, which is. What is really real? Can all of this be chance, or, and worse yet, can the world be really ruled by a small elite?

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In Cryptocracy #3 you get to see sci-fi and conspiracies brought to life that prey on life's greatest fears that are especially relevant to today's political environment. Van Jensen continues to craft a plot that is both fantastic and terrifyingly real at the same time. When you're done with this issue you'll be left wondering if there isn't some grand conspiracy out there, pulling all the strings. Pete Woods does an awesome job with the panels and the use of blue tinting throughout the issue. He sets a mood and tone for the reader by using different shades and colors based on location of the environment within the story, and even the actions taking place between characters. By doing so he allows you to fall right into the story.

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In Demonic #1 we are brought into a familiar world where hands are pulling people in many different directions. Sebela takes us on an interesting exploration of the mind of those who allow their inner demons to run free. But he balances this with examining the character of someone who will do what they feel is right. There were certain character details that were lacking, but overall the writing was good. Niko Walter and Dan Brown create visuals that keep the your eyes glued to each page. However some of the color could have been scaled back a bit. It was fun to see how a single theme could play out in one issue.

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In The Hunt #2 we continue our suspenseful journey with Orla. Like Alice following the rabbit down the hole, we followi Orla into the woods, where horror lives. Colin Lorimer's writing gives you answers while providing new questions in order to keep you engaged. And, Joana Lafuente's coloring skills provides us with the right amount of visual stimulation in order to convey the character's emotion easier. If you enjoy horror, and have always wondered what is in the woods, then I suggest that you pick up The Hunt #2.

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Penny Dreadful #3 is like one great reminiscing dream. You experience the dream like sensation in both the writing and the art. Andrew Hinderaker is able to not only pick up right from the previous issue, but he takes his time to flesh out Malcolm allowing us to see his personality shine through. Louie De Martinis continues his excellent work with the art. As the tone and style of the story changes, so does the art. The use of shadows and details brings to life the dialog and story.

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Harley Quinn #1 is some good fun. From one thing to the next, the story seems to go as quick as Harley's chaotic mind, which for me was a nice way to keep my attention. The writing is pretty good, though the beginning felt rushed. Luckily it improves as the story progresses. The art and the coloring are both flashy and on point with the character, and provides some solid footing for new readers as well as veterans to enjoy.

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Indoctrination #2 continues it's mission to bring an element of real world reality into comics. It's doing so in a way where people who normally don't care about politics or policy might be able to gain an interest in the world around them. The threats seen in Indoctrination #2 feel as as real as the air we breathe. This is part of what makes this comic very enjoyable. We are forced to ask hard questions, we are forced to think, something that more often than not, the powers that be try to prevent.

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In The Hunt #1 you're given the begining of a tension filled, scary story. Unlike many other comics both Colin Lorimer and Joana Lafuente work hard and know when to use a lot of detail, and when to hold back. This forces the reader to fill in the blanks, which in turn draws you even deeper into the story. I wish that they both used these techniques a bit more because it was a pleasant surprise to see them execute it as well as they both have.

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In Cryptocracy #2 you get to see sci-fi and conspiracies that bring to life some of our greatest fears we have today. Van Jensen continues to craft a plot that is both fantastic and terrifyingly possible at the same time. When you're done with Cryptocracy #2 you'll be left wondering if there isn't some grand conspiracy out there, pulling all the strings. Pete Woods does an awesome job with the panels and the use of blue tinting throughout the issue. He sets a mood and tone for the reader by using different shades and colors based on location of the environment within the story, and even the actions taking place between characters. By doing so he allows us to fall right into the story.

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Batman is continuing to find his purpose within the REBIRTH relaunch. Tom King's take on the characters continues to be well done for both old and new Batman fans. Though Duke Thomas is unused, we are left hoping that at some point he will break out. David Finch and Jordie Bellaire take their work from Batman #1 and continue to provide wonderful art that compliments King's writing style in Batman #2. All three of them do not overtake each other.

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Penny Dreadful#2 feels like you just dropped into the world of Bram Stoker and Mary Shelley. The writing is on point with where they want you to be, as well as the illustrations. The dialogue between the characters is full of mistrust, personal motives that are kept from other characters in this issue. Everyone seems to have the same goal in the team this issue, but you soon realize motives and end results aren't all shared. This shows in my view a realistic behavior between two sets of people that don't trust each other. The world feels mysterious and terrifying, and the horror is real. If you're a fan of horror, or just curious, then Penny Dreadful is a good comic series to get into.

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Indoctrination #1 isn't a normal comic by any means. When we read comics, we are normally thrown into a world that is either based on some sort of mythos that only glances at real issues. Or, we are placed in a world that is completely unrelated to reality. Here with Indoctrination we're home. We live in this world every single day, and not many comics are willing to really tackle the fact that our world is more terrifying than any monster cooked up in someone's head. It's extremely well grounded. This fact makes the book very enjoyable. And by the time you complete this first issue you're left asking more questions than you came in with. The story makes you think, and these days thinking is something many people are unwilling to do.

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Wonder Woman #1 continues the journey we left off in in Wonder Woman Rebirth. We get to see what a team of extremely talented people can do with such an iconic character. From the depth of writing provided by Greg Rucka, to the amazing art by Liam Sharp to Laura Martin's coloring skills, we are brought us into a world where Diana is struggling to put together a puzzle. You don't want to miss this series.

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The Flash Rebirth #1 hits the ground running, no pun intended. Joshua Williamson crafts a strong, and complex story for the reader to dive into. The unease that The Flash feels, is something you can definitely relate to. The art by Carmine Di Giandomenico is well done, and sets the tone for the story. As you read The Flash Rebirth #1 you follow the path that Williamson writes for you then Carmine builds the road with his art. The only thing missing was a more in-depth look at Barry's confusion and mental struggles.

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Midnight of the Soul #1 is a powerful story from the start. You are placed into the world of a man who after suffering the horrors of war, is now battling the war within himself. The situations you see Joel Breakstone go through aren't all that different than what we are seeing today with veterans returning from combat in the Middle East. The illustration and coloring were both well done, but not overdone. Howard Chaykin does a good job at taking you out of this world, and into the world of Mr. Breakstone. Jesus Aburtov brings life to that world with his coloring talents. If you're looking for strong story, that isn't afraid of real world issues, then Midnight of the Soul #1 is a worthwhile buy.

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Batman #1 fits nicely into the REBIRTH relaunch and if you are following along from the DC UNIVERSE: REBIRTH special then it will be right up your alley as it gives you another layer of the universe to delve into. As far as a Batman book by itself, King puts Batman in an interesting situation that makes the book feel fresh and exciting. David Finch and Jordie Bellaire both do a wonderful job of creating a visual environment for the reader to both enjoy and get lost in.

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Cryptocracy #1 is a pretty fun read especially if you're a fan of Sci Fi, and conspiracies. You're transferred right into a world full of action, mystery, and most of all excellent art thanks to Pete Woods. Jenson's writing is strong, and pretty fast paced.. Though I feel that this might not be for everyone, I believe most comic book readers will enjoy this issue, and even some others might develop an appreciation for the Sci Fi world.

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Night Trap #1 is a fun, enjoyable horror comic. If you're into slasher archetypes, then this will definitely be worth your while. You're dropped into a world that is very familiar, and yet mysterious as you watch it unfold before your eyes. You get a front seat to all of the action and mystery as well as a number of surprises as events unfold. A few of the events are predictable, but it doesn't take away from the fun of the comic as a whole. Cullen Bunn does a good job writing, and the art duel of JB Bastos, and Robby Bevard bring you into a very vivid and dark world.

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Batman: Rebirth #1 jumps right into the action.The mix of a talented artist, and two brilliant writers gives the reader a complex world that leaves you wanting to continue the journey into the next issue. Though this isn't new reader friendly it will give you a reason to play catch-up with the story so far, as seen with the New 52. I recommend you not only buy the new Batman Rebirth, but to keep up with the corresponding stories with the other DC heroes.

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Wonder Woman: Rebirth #1 takes you for a ride right from the start.The combination of a skilled veteran writer, and two talented artists gives the reader a mesmerizing world that leaves you wanting to continue the journey with Wonder Woman as she fights to figure out what is going on. Like with all the other Rebirth issues you're going to want to catch up on what has happened in the New 52 story lines to have a better understanding of this issue.

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Being a fan of both Sci Fi and Horror reading Corktown #1 was pretty fun. It's an interesting modern vampire story, that had me hooked. It's easy to get into, and it's just as easy to be sitting there wondering all the hows and whys with what's going on. If you enjoy comics dealing with the supernatural, then I suggest you give Corktown #1 a read.

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