Marcell Hines Comic Reviews

Absolute Batman #20 is an excellent issue that ratchets up the tension and the secrets being kept near and far start to break everything Bruce has worked so hard to build. Next issue all of that comes to a head when Batman comes face to face with the Robins!

Absolute Green Lantern #11 may not center its title character directly, it is still a worthwhile issue that does a good job adding to the stakes of the next arc.

AGL #12 is a step up from the last issue, with plenty of action as well as character to  keep readers entertained throughout. Next time, Tomar Re and Jo go kill a planet.

AGL #13 is a welcome change of pace from the last few issues. The journey to space gives us a fresh new canvas to explore with stellar world-building and solid action throughout that will keep entertained.

AGL #14 is a solid return to form and a good star to what is sure to be an action packed arc in the final frontier.

AGL #15 is light on lore, but more than makes up for it with exciting action and strong character writing.

Amazing X-Men #2 is another solid entry on this long and winding road. The characters motivations are clear and the art continues to flow through the book. If there is any Age of Revelation book to read, its this one.

Amazing X-Men #3 is a serviceable end to this miniseries but it doesnt do all that much in the way of building anticipation for the finale of the Age of Revelation.

Battleworld #1 isnt a comic that will demand your attention, but its a fun time nonetheless if youre willing to take the time to check it out.

Batwoman #1 is a solid re-introduction to the character that shows plenty of promise as its mystery unfolds.

Batwoman #2 continues to tell the tale of Kate’s downward spiral into fear to great effect. The creative team ratchets up the tension without sacrificing the tone of the story they are telling.

Ben 10 #1 is a brand new start with a familiar story. With it’s tight narrative and updated designs, there is sure to be plenty more to explore as the story gets rolling along.

The Spyder Wytch Special is a welcome addition to the emerging Bug Wars universe as well as a good appetizer to set up for the return of the series this summer.

Deadly Hands of K’un-Lun #1 is a fine start to what promises to be an explosive mix of magic and fists.

DYHAMG #1 is a very good first impression for this new creative team with plenty of intrigue and genuine horror to keep you coming back for the next issue.

End of Life #1 is a solid opening for what promises to be fun, violent, raunchy, and even somber series with fun characters and high stakes backed by strong art.

After a hot start, End of Life #2 seems to be setting the series into the groove it will retain for the rest of its run. High-octane action followed by slower character drama.

End of Life #3 is a solid chapter despite a couple narrative hiccups and stale jokes. Though the action and good characterization is more than enough to keep you around for more.

End of Life #4 feels like it could be a turning point in the series with major moments punctuated by both humor and serious intent. We see how Eddie will handle the aftermath next time.

The first issue of Expatriate X-Men sets itself up as worthwhile read with an interesting cast and plenty of mystery as our crew navigates the Revelation Territories. We can only speculate who will make it out when they reach Limbo.

Expatriate X-Men issue 2 is a fine continuation of this particular story, but doesnt really do much in the way of building excitement for the conclusion.

While starting shaky and having one or two very questionable creative choices, Expatriate X-Men still manages to stick its landing by the end of the series. Judging by the ending, we can only speculate just how they will make their way into the final issue of the Age of Revelation. A good story overall.

Fairy Girls Vol. 1 is an entertaining little read with some fun and humor to it, but it'S definitely geared towards fans of the main series - seeing as it takes place after one of the original manga's biggest arcs. If you know nothing about Fairy Tail this will not help in expanding your knowledge of the series, but if you are already a fan then this is a nice diversion if you have some time and money to kill.

Final Boss #1 is a solid opener to what looks to be a very adrenaline-pumping series. While the writing is a bit over the top, and the art can be hard to follow at times, it does exactly what it sets out to do.

Grim #25 is a worthy cap to an amazing series. A complete tale told from beginning to end that is sure to stay with you long after its done.

IDBOL #1 is a solid start to this story. An interesting narrative with an enticing hook backed by tremendous art will no doubt keep you engaged for the long haul.

Despite its shortened series length, Imperial Guardian still starts strong with a fun cast, a gritty narrative, and expressive art.

Imperial Guardians #2 continues to be a fun ride from the first issue with plenty of action as well as mystery to keep coming back for the next one.

In Your Skin #1 is a powerful and frightening debut from this creative team that creates an unnerving tale of obsession and greed. I am excited to see where this one goes.

In Your Skin #2 continues the horrific, yet relatable story into its next phase. As the lines blur between where Priyanka ends and Ayesha begins.

Longshots #1 is a fun time in a world gone extinct, but it will come off as jarring if youre trying to keep your Age of Revelation read more on the serious side.

Longshots is a very unserious book, as with most things that feature Mojo, but as we dig deeper and deeper into just how bad things really are, it can be hard to justify finding where this one fits.

While not always hitting the mark, Longshots #3 manages to eke out a pretty satisfying conclusion to an entertaining detour through the Age of Revelation.

Luna Snows World Tour might not convert you into a fan if you already werent one, but its an entertaining enough romp thats sure to kill a bit of time. Even if the characters sometimes feel like they would rather be doing anything else.

Zord Quest isnt a story that hasnt been told before, but it still proves to be an overall entertaining and breezy read that will help scratch that early '90s nostalgia itch.

MMPR #1 is a fine re-introduction to these beloved characters, even for a fan like me with “Mighty Morphin Fatigue.” Time will tell if this series will be able to reach the heights of the previous volume.

Overall, MMPR/TMNT III starts out as more of the same from the first two outings, though noticeably not as strong as those first issues. Still a fun read for fans of both series, but not a great starting point for new readers.

Monstress #60 is a fitting end to the most recent arc of the nearly decade long series with plenty to chew on as it takes on its typical arc-ending sabbatical until 2026.

Monstress #61 is a bit lackluster, but nonetheless, welcome return to form for one of Image’s best long-running series. Solid character moments, gorgeous art, and a compelling narrative set up for the next arc are sure to lure the people back.

Moonstar #1 doesn’t present the most engaging story, but it gives itself plenty of room to grow. Those who read the stories that preceded it might get more from this book, but even those that didn’t might find enough to keep them interested for the next issue.

Moonstar #2 is by no means a bad book, but it doesn’t do much to stand out from the rest of X-Line, which is in need of some stellar titles. Strong main character writing hampered by a limp villain and a standard supporting cast keep this book from reaching its potential, but there is still time to turn things around.

Omega Kids #1 so far is one of the more interesting books of this current event. With a solid story and good art to keep the pace, it could become one of the best books when its all said and done.

Omega Kids issue two definitely has a bit more to say, but not enough time to do it. Quentin is well explored, but the kids remain a bit underwhelming as a collective despite being the central focus of the book. Well see if this story can stick the landing.

Omega Kids ends just short of being great, but settles into good territory when its all said and done. It raises a few interesting questions, but sadly doesnt have the time to answer them before the series ends. Still its a good series to check out among the other tie-ins.

Power Rangers Prime #14 adds weight to the characters as it sets up a planetary threat that is sure to push the rangers beyond their limits physically and emotionally.

Power Rangers Prime was ambitious, but ultimately fails to see that vision all the way through. There are some moments of triumph, but it feels hampered by the ghosts of what could have been. Perhaps one day we will come back to these characters and their world, but for now we turn the page over and await the return to the team that started it all.

Personal feelings of the overall concept of this series aside, the first issue of Psylocke: Ninja is inoffensive enough on a technical level to warrant a glance if you have nostalgia for this time in Betsy Braddocks history. Otherwise youre likely fine sticking to the main X-Men series if you want to see Psylocke.

Rogue Storm #1 has a solid enough hook to keep the pages turning, but the revelation of one of its main characters and the notable absence of the other can make for a puzzling experience. Though there is enough here to keep one digging through the surface just a bit.

Rogue Storm #2 is a good issue, but nothing spectacular. If issue one didnt really hook you enough, this second outing might not do much more in that regard, but for those invested it keeps that momentum going.

In a vacuum, Rogue Storm is a good series, but it struggles to find a place in the Age of Revelation, and that is its biggest flaw. Strip away the Age of Revelation backdrop and this story could still be told. If youre a fan of Ayodeles Storm series, then this is more of that. If you are looking for something to expand on the Age of Revelation, you are likely better off looking elsewhere.

While light on story development, Dimensional Rivals remains a fun time both narratively and visually with strong direction and a very strong lead.

Sai: Dimensional Rivals continues to be a beautiful anthology that showcases some of the best artists in the industry today. Next time Phil Noto, Jim Mahfood, and Giuseppe Camuncoli lend their pens to the story.

Issue four of Dimensional Rivals might not be as strong narratively as the previous teo outings, but it is by no means slacking in the visual department. As usual the various creative teams bring their A games, cohesively moving the narrative along at a fast pace as we reach the final issue. Here’s hoping Sai’s quest meets a meaningful end.

Sai: Dimensional Rivals ending might have been low-key but the journey to it was larger than life. Peach and all of her collaborators came together to showcase a tale of art and expression through immaculate visual storytelling and communication that succeeds in every dimension.

Sinisters Six is a standard start to a formula that has been seen before, even in this event, but what carries it is its choice of characters and art. Even with this seeming redundancy, it gives you just enough to check back in for the next issue.

Sinisters Six #2 is a strong follow to a solid first issue. Though a few more questions have yet to be answered, there is enough in this issue to keep you engaged until the finale.

Sinisters Six ends on a bittersweet note and stands out among the rest of the Age of Revelation tie-ins. If you have to step outside of the main story, this book is of real interest.

The Last Wolverine isnt going to wow you if you havent been keeping up with the solo Wolverine series, but it does an effective job as an opening chapter to this story.

New Gods #12 is a fitting end to what was definitely one of the most underrated books to come out in DC the past year. A great end that also serves as a great beginning to the next cycle of stories for these characters.

Power Fantasy #15 is a powerful climax to the books fourth arc, leaving you salivating for the next issue to see what will happen when the world washes away in red.

Power Fantasy #16 is a tragic ending to the first part of an incredible story. Everything ends in a sweeping crescendo of desperation, defiance, and fear that leaves the door open for what will happen next. Hopefully the break doesn't last too long.

Tigress Island #1 is a fun start to what promises to be a sexy and violent throwback to a style gone by. With distinct characters and stellar art, this is sure a book to check out if you’re looking for something more on the sultry side.

Tigress Island #2 keeps up the fun of the first issue while adding a bit more pathos and danger for our leads. It will be entertaining to see how wild things continue to get from here.

While nothing that hasnt been done before, the first issue of "Touched By a Demon is a solid introduction to what has the potential to be a very fun series with plenty of humor and horror.

TBAD #2 is another enjoyable outing that gives a bit more pathos to a few characters as well as raises the stakes just a bit, as the next issue puts the gang in the crosshairs of a cop investigating the disappearance of Wendy and her family.

Ultimate Endgame #1 does everything it set out to do from when it was first set up, showing just how cataclysmic this final war will no doubt become. With effective dialogue and strong art, things seem to only go up from here.

Ultimate Endgame #2 pushes the momentum forward from the opening issue with plenty of action, tragedy, horror, and even dark humor to keep you hooked from beginning to end.

Despite being a bit cramped at times, Ultimate Endgame #3 is another strong chapter in this ever-unfolding saga, with plenty of twists and turns that are yet to come.

The penultimate issue of Ultimate Endgame sets things up well for the finale despite a couple of minor stumbles. With a still gripping narrative and engaging art, the finale is poised to be epic.

Ultimate Hawkeye is fun enough romp with an equally fun character. Worth the read if youre a fan of Charli, but theres nothing vital in these pages if you decide to skip it as well.

Ultimate Impact #1 starts strong with an engaging narrative and solid artwork to keep readers engaged. Hopefully it can keep it up.

Ultimates Two Years In continues to ramp up the anticipation for Endgame, telling a story of hope and perseverance that will satisfy those who have been following the universe since its inception.

Ultimate Wolverine continues to tell its story in bloody fashion, and as long as you ignore the X-Men shaped elephant in the room, the book remains a fun ride.

Ultimate Wolverine #10 sadly remains more of the same. The endgame is coming, but the formula is starting to grow stale. While the action scenes are fun to see (as short as they are) its the characters that continue to fall behind the narrative.

Ultimate Wolverine #11, while not a bad comic, only continues to highlight the overall problem with the series since issue six. However, with a lot of those characters now out of play, perhaps the remaining issues can return to the tightness of those first six.

Ultimate Wolverine feels like its starting to recapture the same interest those early issues had with its last two outings, though there is still some work that needs to be done as we reach the end. Nonetheless this is a strong issue that starts to put a bow on the events in Eurasia.

Despite two fairly strong issues in a row, Ultimate Wolverine unfortunately wavers in this most recent go around. Individual pieces are strong, but the overall package leaves itself wanting for more to chew on.

Ultimate Wolverine #14 takes another small step towards its finale, but the journey is starting to weigh a little heavy as there isnt much to sink your teeth into with this one.

Overall, Ultimate Wolverine ends with a disappointing whimper that betrays the big splash it initially made. Weak characters and shallow world-building prevent this story from fulfilling the promise it had in its first arc. While I am eager to see what the individuals in this team do next, I can’t say this particular story will be counted among their favorites.

Ultimate X-Men #18begins its road to what can only be described as the book's climax, putting the pieces in place for what is sure to be an explosive finale down the line. It is truly the calm before the storm.

Ultimate X-Men #19 begins its road to what can only be described as the book's climax, putting the pieces in place for what is sure to be an explosive finale down the line. It is truly the calm before the storm.

Issue #20 provides some good set up, and is a much needed recentering after the climax of the previous arc. Peachs art remains stellar and she manages to slow things down while at the same time ramping up the tension for what is coming up ahead.

Ultimate X-Men #21 is a pretty standard entry as we near the end of the series. While Kageyamas origin of sorts is kind of late in the game, it was still good to finally see it.

Just where will the Maystorm blow next as we reach the Endgame?

While Ultimate X-Men #23 might be a dip in intensity from last issue, it is by no means sacrificed quality. From start to finish this side tale is a compelling add-on as we reach the series finale with the next issue.

All that’s left now is to see if Hisako and her friends play a part in the ongoing Endgame.

Ultimates #15 continues the quality that the book has become known for since the beginning. With plenty of character, lore, and fun action to keep readers craving more. The tide is beginning to shift, but the waters only get rougher from here.

Ultimates #16 is definitely another highlight issue in what is arguably the best book in the line. The story arrives at a perfect time given the current state of America today, as well as subtly push the story forward as we continue to head towards Ultimate Endgame. Only two months remain.

Issue 17 is easily on the level of its predecessor in terms of story and character. Overall its one of the best issues in the series.

Ultimates #18 continues the streak of great issues started in issue 16, as the creative continues to go bigger and bolder as we run headlong into the Endgame.

Ultimates #19 is a great companion piece to Ultimate Endgame #1, showing the fallout from the opening salvo of the war that might not have been expected at first. With the shocking ending fresh in my mind, I am eager to see what happens next.

Ultimates #20 is another bold entry as we dive deeper into the Ultimate Universes Endgame and remains a must-read in the current comics landscape.

Ultimates #21 is another strong chapter in the ongoing Endgame with an action-packed return to form supported by tight, compelling writing and exciting visuals. ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE!

Ultimates #22 is not only perhaps the strongest issue of these Endgame companions, but maybe one of the strongest issues of the series period. With a heavily emotional script and detailed artwork that grips you from start to finish.

Ultimates #23 is a bit disconnected from the overall plot on Earth, but still tells an epic narrative through spectacular artwork that ties a nice bow on the Asgardians.

Ultimates #24 might not end the series with a bang, but it ended the series how it needed to in order to tie in to the end of the universe. This was a series far more concerned with it’s characters than big superhero battles and for a majority of the run it succeeded. Consistently showing the best the line had to offer, and its hampered potential, we now move towards the Endgame to see how it will all end.

Kaito ‘84 #1 is a great start to a story that is sure to be a welcome addition to the growing world of Usagi Yojimbo.

Kaito '84 #2 is a good addition to what is proving to be a fun series. With the stakes set, things are sure to get even more heated.

Kaito '84 #3 might be a slight dip in quality from the first two, but it still rounds out to be an entertaining issue with a few key moments to make up for it’s slightly hectic pacing.

What If...? Uncanny X-Men is a solid tale with a few missing pieces, but that doesn’t take away from it’s overall appeal. There are some interesting ideas that are sort of blitzed through, but the end result remains satisfying.

Despite a couple minor nitpicks, Weapons of Armageddon is still an exciting opening salvo for what promises to be an intriguing event. The story is engaging and the art more than keeps up the pace to create a very fun time.

WoA #2 pushes the narrative forward, but not in the most exciting of ways. A few good character moments and solid action, but it still feels like we are waiting on just a bit more.

WoA #3 is a serviceable issue but lacks the impact of what a penultimate issue should be. With one more issue left, hopefully it can end strong.

Weapons of Armageddon may not have ended in the grandest of fashions, it managed to accomplish its mission of setting elements up to be followed through in Avengers: Armageddon next of month.

World of Revelation is a solid peek into characters who are not exactly at the center of the event, with a range of character and creatives bringing different corners of the frightening world to light. Your enjoyment of the stories will vary, but the overall vision is a solid one.

X-Men Annual #1 tells a fun and resonating story about art that might not be essential, but still worth your time if you love the medium.

X-Men of Apocalypse #1 is a nice outing for fans of the original story and its characters, but while the art is dazzling to look at, it might not offer much for people unaware of the previous stories.

Despite a few questionable narrative choices, X-Men United is off to an entertaining start as we continue into the Shadows of Tomorrow.

X-Vengers #2 is another solid issue that successfully continues to build its narrative around the leader of its team. Real moments of pathos help ground the characters as the stakes raise evn higher heading into the final issue. Even if its place in the overarching narrative of the even raises a few questions.

X-Vengers ends as another okay series in a sea of them. A few good character moments here and there, but nothing to really write home about. If you are interested, pick it up. If not, theres more in the pipeline.

Zatanna #1 is a solid start of what can potentially be an all-time great run for the magician. With a creator who understands the character narratively and visually, the sky is the limit.

Zatanna #2 continues to be a magical ride filled with fun and danger. As the journey gets more perilous, Zatanna will surely put on a show before it's all over.