Joshua Hilgenberg Comic Reviews

Abbot #1 is the first in what will hopefully be a long run of crime drama done right. It's entertaining, yet true to its defining characteristics, such as setting. Ahmed seems to be getting at something rather than simply tempting readers with a juicy story. The entire team, though, should be lauded for this loud entry. Truly, this issue is a landmark.

Ahmed's premise and character design is top notch, but is elevated by lines from Kivel, and so on with colors from Wordie, and letters from Campbell. It's sad to see Elena Abbott go, but only because we want to see even more of what she's capable of.

This series looks like it'll be a blast thanks to a devoted, cooperative team. The Adventures of the Super Sons #1 is a solid recommendation for parents, kids, or anyone who still isn't sold on Damian. Tomasi, Barberi, Thibert, Leigh, and Protobunker come together for a worthwhile series that's easy to enjoy.

Aquaman #44 is a strong entry in Deconnick, Rocha, Henriques, Gho and Cowles' tenure. From the looks of things, this arc is going to be a foundational touchstone for a much longer story. The team is preparing for a fresh, accessible take on DC's master of the oceans.

It's hard not to feel invested in the series; by the end of this issue, readers will feel like Babs is one of their long lost friends.

Batman #52 is exhilarating. The callback to older Batman stories is great for older readers, but the step away from wedding build up means it's an opportunity for new readers, too. Every creator on this book is a rockstar. Buy this issue, buy the last issue, and buy every issue of Cold Days.

Batman Beyond #14 is a solid issue with a lot to offer. The team of Jurgens, Hester, and Parks proves to be knowledgeable on the characters as well as the space they exist in, and are cultivating the title in new ways.

Black Af: Widows and Orphans #1 is awesome; This is a series, and an entire universe, to keep an eye on especially for readers hungry for superhero comics outside of the traditional DC or Marvel book.

With this comic, Ormston, Stewart, Lemire, and Klein begin another entry in one of superhero comics' most intimate and emotional stories.

Black Panther: Long Live the King #1 honors its title by showing the best parts of T'challa as the ruler of Wakanda.

Black Panther: Long Live the King #5 asks readers to imagine a world in which the average citizen has a relationship with their leader, to the point that they need no security when travelling in their borders. Put more simply, Okorafor's Wakanda reflects the mutual trust between ruler and ruled. Wouldn't that be nice?

This debut new series proves that adaptation is possible, as long as the creators are thoughtful, and this team is exactly that. Bloodborne players will undoubtedly enjoy this comic. Admirers of the game who thought it was too hard, or who, perhaps, gave up because they couldn't beat that goddam Martyr Logarius no matter how hard they tried, this comic's for you.

Bloodborne #2, despite providing only breadcrumbs, satisfies. Another art team might not be able to pull this off. Simpson and Kowalski, beyond simply replicating the art style of the game, have a solid, addicting direction that seeps its way into each part of the issue.

Catwoman #1 is a must read for die-hard fans of the character, and a recommended read for anyone slightly interested in her. Jones hints at an unfolding mystery that juxtaposes the much more interesting personal struggle, but it'll certainly be interesting to see how the two connect. This issue sports top tier comic art and a much needed recognition of DC's feline felon.

Catwoman #2 is very, very good. Jolle Jones taking the helm of this ship has been a delight in terms of story as well as visuals, and Laura Allred and Josh Reed on the supporting cast are just as skilled. Even though this is a second issue, it's not too late to jump on. Buy the first issue (and check out our review for it), or just start on #2. Either way, buy this book.

There is so much story to tell and so much art to consume that [its] flaws fall away. Wild Hunt is no less impactful without those connections. Its pages depict brawls, schemes, and themes for any DC fan and every comics lover.

It delivers on the comedy and gore that are expected from the titular characters, but only for part of the issue.

Priest inspires some interesting juxtapositions as well early on, hinting at underlying thematic elements alongside feeding characters with exciting dialogue, while Pagulayan simultaneously choreographs intense fights.

When all is said and done, Deathstroke #31 is a solid issue for most readers. It's exciting artistically and narratively, and is able to overcome its flaws because of that. Priest is building an arc that's meaningful for the characters here without fan servicing, and that alone is reason to give it a look.

Doctor Star and The Kingdom of Lost Tomorrows #1 is a heartfelt issue looking to explore parental ties, obsession, and, potentially, retribution.

This series is only on its fourth issue and it's already just as powerful as the first. Some might even say it's better.

Extremity has established itself as a bloody story about purpose, art, and reaction, and finds a unique voice in doing so.

Extremity #10 is, unfortunately, the intermission before the final act of this powerful series. The team of Wooton, Spicer, and Johnson shows their collaboration on the page like few other comics are able to do, and, most importantly challenge the reader.

Johnson masterfully directs each one to prepare for the series' coda. Loss is eminent, but to what degree is unknown. If you aren't reading this series, you're robbing yourself of one of comics' perfect storms.

Reading this issue for free really feels like robbery. Valiant shows its devotion to its characters and its stories in really sparse moments here, and it highlights the best parts of the publisher.

To more avid readers, the story may seem already done, but younger readers will likely enjoy following Nicholas' fiery attitude battle through the fencing world and the even more frightening world of school.

This first issue shows many of the elements readers look for in good comics: unique premise, interesting characters, strong art design, and worthwhile themes.

Goddess Mode #2 is full, fun and feminist. Woven through more narrative development and worldbuilding, Goddess Mode #2 dishes out touching character development and comforting messages (along with a not-so-comforting twist) and, of course, giant punk monsters. It's a great pull for sci-fi fans looking for a world visually and narratively fascinating.

Overall, Green Lanterns #37 has its problems, but it still manages to be fun. Readers looking to round out their pull lists and learn about the DC Universe's new characters might look here for a relevant story arc 37 issues deep with little to no required reading up to this point. The story is relevant, and will surely provide the beacon of hope Green Lanterns are known for.

Hawkman #2 is a solid issue, and totally exciting for anyone who's missed seeing Carter Hall around, whether that be in the old comics, recent ones, or animated cartoons. It's a fun story along with top notch art. If continuity scares you, but you like the character, give this a shot. Likely, you'll have too much fun to be concerned about the historical nuance and find yourself happily lost along with an old friend.

The team behind Hawkman: Found #1 is a powerhouse, and they deliver. The issue is exciting and carries weight, even for those not reading the main event, but who are eager to see the character's return.

Hellboy: Krampusnacht is not only for lovers of the series, but for newcomers as well. There's no reliance on previous lore of the series, or even necessity to know the origin of the character.

None of this should make sense together. It's bonkers that the word 'bzzooo' is used in the same book that its characters are dealing with intense trauma; it seems silly. That's the same pitch for these characters, though. They shouldn't be able to constantly push themselves beyond human limits. Superman, Wonder Woman, they live at a hundred and fifty percent. Until now, we, the fans have assumed they're fine with that. Heroes in Crisis proves why we've been wrong. King's plot, along with Mann, Morey and Cowles, reject superheroes' indomitability and say here's what you've been missing. Here is something you have never seen before.

Ice Cream Man #1 teases a delightfully dreadful series to come from creators Prince, Morazzo, and O'Halloran. This book takes the creepiness of the ice cream truck's siren song and matures it into a thematically strong and intriguing story. It's filled with satisfying moments that illicit grimaces and even laughs. More than that, it sets itself apart from the crowd of other books by embracing the titular character.

Ice Cream Man #3 shows the verticality of this creative team. They're able to explore the mythological, the real, and the surreal in one of this year's most interesting new series.

Infidel #1 is important and masterfully artful.

Campbell and Pichetshote are thoughtful in their creative decisions, and the result is a comic that's intelligent and wicked.

It's difficult to complain about Infidel #5. The only reason not to buy this issue, or any of the preceding ones, is if you want to live in a world where this comic and its creators go on forever. Infidel is a comic to be studied and celebrated.

Justice League #4 is a team book that's fun to look at and fun to read. Snyder is at his best when he can play in wild scenarios and churn out enticing conversation, which is exactly the writing in this issue. Sanchez balances the three pronged storytelling with his thoughtful colors. Each character looks distinctly their own thanks to Jimenez. Their personality is infused into their appearances. The hype around these books is absolutely justified, and a must buy for DC fans.

Justice League #9 continues to show the best a superhero comic can be. When it comes to story, Snyder takes the most indulgent parts of caped crusader books and combines it with touching character work. Jimenez' unique figures are stylized, yet respectful of their muscle-bound origins. With Sanchez and Napolitano rounding out the team, it's difficult not to love this book. Every inch of Justice League #9 is like rediscovering one of your childhood bedtime stories, only to find that it's better than you could have ever remembered it.

DC's most recent team-book is an easy recommendation for readers who miss these characters, or just want to get to know them. There's no barrier to stop readers from totally understanding what's going on, and the creative team is working together to ensure that everyone from Zatanna to Man-Bat has a cemented personality by the final page of Justice League Dark #1.

Justice League: No Justice #4 isn't a finale; it's a transition. Critics of this series will call the story predictable. To some extent, that's true, but in the sense that matters, No Justiceis the opposite. It's a character-first story.

Good storytelling doesn't always necessitate good theme, but Mata Hari #1 is an intersection of the two. The themes are just as interesting as the character. Mata Hari's story, despite having occurred years in the past, is fresh and full of intrigue.

Mata Hari #2 is another good read for fans of historical fiction looking for a woman to take the lead.

Potentially the only feel-good mech story there is, this issue is welcoming and insightful. Issue #5 seems to be framing an arc about working together despite differences in ideals and backgrounds, and what could be more relevant?

King and Gerads are consistently a team worthy of the praise they receive as they build on the medium's strengths and push its limits.

Gerads and King work together harmoniously to continue producing one of the best series in DC's arsenal. It's clear that the two of them have a shared vision as well as themes and experiences that they want to explore. Their style can only be a comic book; the images inform the way the words are interpreted and vice versa. One without the other wouldn't give the same message. Therein lies the success of this issue. Mister Miracle is a story that can be told in the pages of a comic book.

Mysteries of Love in Space #1 is a collection of several one-off stories from a huge array of creators, from the well-known, to the up and coming, to the lesser known. In spite of that, each story here is a great read, whether you're familiar with the characters or not. If you're looking for a fresh take on love stories in comics, this is a must buy this week.

New Super-Man #19 is fun and insightful...it treats one of the series' lesser known characters with a fresh story and is able to introduce new readers simultaneously.

Plastic Man #3 is a book for people who like to have fun, and feel a little something. Whether you've been keeping up with the book or not, this issue is easy to enjoy. The people working on this comic are putting their best butts forward, and it's hard to ask for anything more than that.

This issue is a fresh take on the medium, and likely a great way to change pace for readers who feel that their pulls are repetitive. Proxima Centauri #1 is a joy, so long as you let yourself partake. If on a first read, you feel like you want more questions answered, read it again with this mindset and watch how your perspective changes. Dalrymple puts an old adage into practice and provides proof of concept.

Quantum Age #1 has a solid grasp of setting and characterization. The people and the places are very much alive. For anyone who's dissatisfied with any of the big two team books (but how could you not love them right now?), Quantum Age is an easy recommendation. Fans of dystopia, sci-fi, and Avengers or Justice League will feel right at home here, even if they've never read a Black Hammer comic before.

By the end of Red Sonja/Tarzan #1, though, these shortcomings tend to mean a lot less. Simone is putting together a story that seems to be as true to its main characters as it can be, and there are still satisfying character moments between the pages. Red Sonja fans should feel right at home in the pages of this book, especially those wanting more of what made Simone's run a success. Anyone curious about Sonja or Tarzan should feel comfortable checking this book out as well, as the core values of both are forefront. From the start, Red Sonja/Tarzan #1 shows a respect for its most valuable asset: its characters.

Bellaire and Del Rey flip one horror's tired tropes on its head, which has been one of the most successful parts of Redlands. No matter what it looks like, you're probably wrong " especially true in this issue's twist.Read more at http://all-comic.com/2017/redlands-3/#FlEDbbfxiqLF9del.99

Readers of the series must let themselves fall into the deep, beautiful shadows of Redlands if they want to get the most out of it.

Starks and Schweizer pull together lore from several places and mash it up into a series that's fun, rewarding, and enlightening. It really pushes the idea that everyone deserves more than a first glance judgement.

Rock Candy Mountain #9 builds on the best parts of the series, and its clever humor is a welcome relief from darker stories on the shelves.

The bittersweet Rock Candy Mountain #7's worst quality is that it signals the finale of this smart series. The creative team understands the mechanics of comics and of the genre in a way that distinguishes their work as unique.

Unfortunate as it is that the series has come to an end, all hopes for the series' treasured characters have been realized. Some found what they didn't realize they were looking for and others finally let themselves have what they needed. Perhaps even better than that is the small evidence that, even if Starks and Schweizer don't pick up the series, the characters will continue. As each story finds its end, more adventures are hinted at. Even if it doesn't mean a return to the exciting world of Rock Candy Mountain, the place Starks whisks readers out of his world is enough. Read more at http://all-comic.com/2018/rock-candy-mountain-8/#Wzfml122oXqYjjJf.99

Saga makes the statement that family is everything, but we're the ones that decide who our family is, regardless of gender, race, or even sentience.

If you aren't reading Saga, or never have, stop punishing yourself. This arc is as good as any to pick up and dive into, and will, most likely, inspire curiosity about the series and the inevitable, insatiable desire for those sweet, sweet hardcover omnibuses.

Anyone who enjoys the mystery and character development of Black Hammer will find themselves right at home in this book.

If you like the post-apocalypse because of human to human interaction, The Wilds is that series.

Vagrant Queen #1 is a solid first issue from a solid team. Though the artwork fluctuates, the lead character keeps the book on course. We see a girl who lost her royalty and hasn't looked back until this story begins. It's well told, and well illustrated, thanks to the team of Visaggio, Smith, and Saxon, with letters from Zakk Saan.

Void Trip #2 is honest, fun, and spontaneous. It sticks closely to the central premise of a few drug users on their space journey to Euphoria, taking time to explore themes and moments as they arrive.

Void Trip #4 is a good issue for fans of irreverent comedy mixed with emotional character moments, sci-fi, and, of course, themes of drug usage.

Narratively, there are contrasts between raunchy humor and religious themes. In the art, there are sketchy lines butted up against sharp colors. In the characters, there are original ideas marred by old ones. Billy Bane seems to be swimming against the current. An ex-religious-figurehead in a sci-fi world is new, but the way that he deals with his emotions is not.

If you liked DC's last event, Metal, then Wonder Woman #46 is right up your alley. It begins a new arc for the series entitled 'The Dark Gods', and has a thrilling last second surprise for Diana. The premise, despite being familiar, has a fresh take to it as well as a sense of urgency throughout.

Wonder Woman #51 is a great jumping on point for all sorts of new readers. Whether you're looking to get into Wonder Woman for the first time since Rebirth, have never read the character, or never even read a comic, this issue is welcoming. Anyone looking to get invested in Wonder Woman, look no further than this issue.

X-O Manowar #8 reads as a thank you to creators who brought him to fame, and a promise to fans that Aric will reign for a long, long time.