PNeafsey Comic Reviews

An intriguing concept Amala's Blade does set the groundwork for a promisingly amusing title. Nothing stood out as too griping though, but there was a feeling of wanting more after finishing the book. As a number zero issue, there is much to be said for establishing characters, but there is a reason most publishers release a number zero after a few issues into the series: there is not much investment. I do think Amala's Blade has potential. Between Horton's personable writing and Dialynas's action scenes there's plenty of talent, and who doesn't like the idea of an assassin who takes control of a pirate ship. Who would win, a Pirate or an Assassin? How about a Pirate Assassin!

Look chances are that if you're already readingB.P.R.D. Vampireyou're going to pick this book up anyone in which I'd say that it's par for the course in the series so far and a bit underwhelming when held to the standard of Mingola books in general. If you haven't picked up theB.P.R.D. Vampire seriesbut are a fan of Mignola and considering it, I'd say buy it if you're a completionist, desperately trying to connect all the dots of Mignola's universe, or if you really like the 40's BPRD stuff. For non-fans however this is not a very good place to jump into the Mignola universe, it's too underwhelming and too contingent on other series to really be an easy read, I would recommend instead some of the older Hellboy trades such as Seed of Destruction or Wake the Devil or if you want a current series try Hellboy in Hell or Abe Sapien.

There are a few standout points in Blood Brothers that retain the hope of a continued series bearing fruit. As a first issue, it manages to set the stage for larger things, but fails to captivate within the issue itself. The characters Nick and Tree do grow on you as their contrasting yet complimentary " almost apathetic " mannerisms create friction and convey relatablehuman flaws. In the end, despite it's flaws Blood Brothers creates something that like it's characters, might be redeemed given time. Perhaps a collection of this three issue miniseries will give these brothers in blood their time to coalesce?

After reading Blood Brothers #2it's apparent that this should have been the start of the series, with issue one as the issue zero adding details and background. Dropping into a different story can be disorienting but the conspiracy quickly turns to a mystery and gathers the pieces into play. Blood Brothers has hit it's pace and though the brothers might have to part for a time, I look forward to their adventures. It better be quick though as there is only one more issue left in this three part mini-series.

It's this outside force that really throws Brain Boy and Matt's world upside down. It turns out not only is Matt not alone in his telepathic abilities, but there are others who threaten everything he once thought he knew. How does a Secret Service Agent with telepathic abilities and thought he was the king of the world take having everything he knew shaken? We'll find out in the next Brain Boy.

Burn the Orphanage is a good example of how much worse so many other similar things could be and how nostalgia is no substitute for quality characters or an innovative new take. It's Lollipop Chainsaw without the likable characters and innovative array of musical murderers, Regular Show without the cartoonish over the top action, and Tarantino without the insightful genre commentary. The thing it reminds me of the most is the god awful Expendables films in that it isn't a celebration of junky beat 'em up game plots or an elevation of bad action stories it's just a bad junky beat 'em up action story that would've been more fun to play then to read.

The third story isn't really a story either, it's just Dawn and Darrian sitting around on a gradient color pallet (not the first story to feature missing backgrounds I might add) talking about armies and Lucifer and how Darrian was betrayed as a king and how he wants to show mercy and how he should kill everyone who disagrees with him (I'm assuming that in the future Console Wars were taken to a horrible extreme) and Dawn just telling him that we're all born to die. There really is no plot to this story just Dawn giving Darrian a murder pep talk, no arc or narrative to be found. At the end of the day this comic is just bad, the artwork cuts corners, the stories feel cheap and incomplete, nothing is explained or grounded for new readers, and nothing was revealed or accomplished for old readers. I can't recommend this book, even if you're a Dawn fan.

As a whole Dia De Los Muertos #1 offers some nice ideas, and the short-story format has translated surprisingly well to the comic format, but beyond the artwork left more to be desired. Dia De Los Muertos is a three-issue series, so as the series continues things could change as a whole.

It's a rare moment when something passes through and upon the first reading you know you have found something special. East of West is one of these moments. Upon reading this issue I spread the word and have heard nothing but positive responses. There's some elements of the story that are hard to grasp " those who like a quick read or easy plot won't like it " but there's a sense that you're not meant to get it all in one go. Unless someone is against westerns there are few issue to find with East of West. It's early to tell, but if Hickman and Drogotta can keep this up they might just have another The Walking Dead or Saga on their hands. After reading East of West #1 it has immediately made itself a prominent place in my pull list. It should find a home in yours too.

Emily gains her mystical tentacled guitar, along with an unexpected addition in the shape of a young blue-haired boy. Evan, stage name Evan Strange, just wants to rock and it seems like Emily might have met her match in wit and drive. I can't wait to see what new crazy new adventures these kids get into, along with the insane(ly) wonderful artwork. Even without a background knowledge of Emily and the Strangers' origins, the series is easy to picked up for newcomers and I highly recommend readers of all ages give this issue a read.

Five Weapons #1 introduces the academy, Tyler and the students of the academy in an interesting and griping way. Whether a young adult or adult, there's something of interest in this plot for everyone. While the art style is indicative of Image Comics aiming for a younger reader, the writing makes it accessible on multiple levels. Tyler Shainline is an interesting character " though he might not be who he says he is " and strangely appealing as a main character. He's smug, which would normally be a turnoff, but so far he's rightfully so. Hopefully the artwork continues to be as adaptive as this first issue and the plot proves to be on the mark in subsequent issues; if so, then Image Comics might have another hit on their ledger.

Skin Trade has a weak story with characters that don't really stick. Maybe if you're a fan of the novel and want to see the story done in a new medium, or have a very light pull list and are willing to stick out the run in the hopes it improves over time you might want to try this one. Ultimately I don't recommend it.

With such a diverse cast the pacing inspires a desire to know more about each of the characters. As a part of the Grimm Fairy Tales Unleashed event, Hunters is a great chance to learn more specifically about each of member of this elite group. Hopefully future issues continue to highlight each of the other four characters in a similar manner to Roman so we learn more about them without completely dedicating an issue to each member. This format might leave some wishing for more insight in each individual book, but could be a benefit the series in the long run if utilized right.

In true Zenescope fashion the art is beautiful, Dorothy is beautiful yet strong and there is big trouble brewing. The pacing is fantastic for a first issue setting crumbs of a larger mystery, introducing characters and establishing it's own presence. There's a promise that the events in Oz will spill over into the rest of the Grimm Fairy Tale Universe with Dorothy standing at the center of things. As a standalone title or accompanying the Grimm titles, OZ #1is a fine addition to Zenescope's lineup, one that I can't wait to see where this yellow brick road takes us.

St. Patrick's Special is billed as a horror story " it has plenty of death " but because each person's punishment fits their crime, and the beautiful art helps make this so much more palatable than some other horror stories. The artwork is as wonderfully drawn as usual, and there is plenty of eye-candy, but as with the stories they tell there's more to it than just this outward appearance. Highly enjoyable, great artwork and easily digested stories with relatable moral lessons make this Grimm Fairy Tale: St. Patrick's Day Special Oneshot suited to the titular holiday.

The Being has been busy: releasing the old magic back into the world and threatening not only the fairy tales, but the entire world. It's an epic start to a new chapter in the Grimm Fairy Tale saga. The addition of classical creatures in the already diverse and amazingly storyline of Grimm makes the Unleashed arc incredibly monumental and promises much more in future issues. There are five other crossover titles that hint at the creatures and dangers that will befall the guardians of the world: Vampires, Werewolves, Demons, and Zombies. After the well paced and impressive amount of setup that Unleashed #1 establishes, I can't wait to see what the Huntresses do next.

Though some may feel it lacked the amount of action and excitement exhibited in the main title, Pat Shand and his team take their time to establish the characters in a way that is still engaging in this crossover. The setup is not wasted and hints at greater conflict, both external and internal, to follow. It's a good sign for the series that a character who might have been overshadowed in Unleashed can not only be given her own issue, but be made into someone that readers can become fully invested behind.

As an introduction to Guardians of the Galaxy it's clear that this origin story for Peter Quill, who will become Star-Lord, sets the tone and direction for the Guardians. Bendis establishes the groundwork that the series will build upon. Though the Guardians might have been neglected in recent memory, they make an impactful reintroduction with relatable storytelling and an ending that really sets the stage for much more fun. There's even an addition to the team that we weren't expecting, but will tie the Marvel universes of The Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy movies together to the general public.

Sarah Palmer's character a rescues Halo: Initiation from the potential background-laden opening and makes this a must-read for any level of fan. Those familiar with the lore will recognize Sarah Palmer, and given the chance to delve further into her story is the true potential of this series.

Lockjaw got sort of a dumbed down caption box system to tell you what he was thinking where as here it's all done with Pizza Dog's facial expressions. There are some major plot revelations in the book that I do really wish we could have seen the full dialogue for (no spoilers here on what they are) but I think Fraction will take us back to those moments next issue. I don't know what else I could say about this book beyond what I've already said praising its quality, innovation, and just gung-ho embracing of the comic format medium so I'll just say this: the book features a fight scene between a mystery solving dog and Russian assassin dressed as a mime, come on you want to read this book now.

Readers looking for a unique comic with fantastic artwork and writing will find Wilheim ready to deliver. Hopefully Oni Press and their team can keep up the pace of this entry in subsequent issues.

Questions from the first book remain and more are added, especially at the end with the first appearance of Groa and her village. What is Bera's game, what is Groa and what are her plans, and who exactly is the real enemy in this gothic viking horror?

Coming at this as someone who knew nothing about the Hoax Hunters it certainly makes me want to read more of their comics and it was easy to get drawn into the characters or more rather character of Ragen. That would be my only major complaint, from an outsider's perspective the heavy Ragen focus did leave me wanting to learn more about the additional members especially Murder and Jack, but for all I know Ragen's the main character in the actual comics so we'll call that a wash for now. If you're interested in the Hoax Hunters or just want a good one and done read pick it up.

We all know that there will be an all-out brawl among heroes and villains alike, Injustice: Gods Among Us the comic is the story of how that came to be. What would drive superheroes to fight among themselves? What makes the villains join their ranks? What is their justifications? These questions of the mental and emotional toll required for a hero to drastically change their perception have always intrigued me. Despite some of the pacing issues and the conversion from digital format Injustice: Gods Among Us makes a perfect tie-in for the game, but could also just as easily have stood as it's own project.

It's a fresh installment with promise, featuring ninjas and an art style unlike the rest of the DC line-up. For those looking for something new it's recommended to at least give it a try.

There's really not much else to say about King Conan #3, it is functional if unimpressive, the story moves at a solid pace with some very good artwork (even if it slips into the cheesecake a bit too often for my taste), but there's nothing egregiously wrong with the book the same way there's nothing outstandingly well done or enjoyable, it is simply middle of the road. If you're already reading the King ConanI assume you'll be picking this up anyway in which case more power to you but if you're interested in Conanor barbarian type fantasy stories I guess this book would fill that niche, but there are better choices (my father loves the many Conan trade paperbacks so that's a good place to start.)

Spelling and continuity errors aside Lords of Mars is honestly pretty enjoyable. It has a general solid flow and is pretty effective at building a sort of electric charge in the atmosphere for the upcoming fight between the series two main characters though I do think that this issue is a little too heavy on the Tarzan sequences and runs out of momentum near the end with a very abrupt start. Still this issue existed to get me pumped up for the big fight and it really did that and I'm very much looking forward to the next issue, I'd say pick it up.

Probably the most impressive entry of this comic: the twist ending. The preconceived notions are established just to be brought down in a subtle manner that does not disturb - but adds - to what came before. At the end this twist just enhances the already existing smile for anyone familiar with the series and grips those unfamiliar.

Unfortunately, the convoluted storyline full of rehashed parodies losses the plot focus in search of laughs. While there is potential in Reality Check it's still left to be proven capable of being fleshed out. It's a fun but ultimately empty read that'll set the stage for truly exceptional story.

You may have noticed I didn't mention "good" in that list largely because I'm still not sure if I liked Satellite Sam or not, maybe if you're a fan of more adult and mystery oriented comics like this you'll like it but for me" I don't know maybe if this story was being told through a film or a TV show on HBO I would be into it more but in this format I don't think I would pick up a second issue.

Overall though a lot of these issues are relatively minor and the main plot of Ginsberg trying to hold together his flagship show as he prepares to get the senate air wave committee to give him coast to coast air time is a pretty interesting and compelling one and a really good way to get to know all the characters we blitzed over in the previous issue. As I mentioned earlier the black and white though still troubled by coloring and backgrounds does add to the noir atmosphere and helps the world feel true and alive in a great way. This is a strong second issue and a promising start for the series, highly recommended.

When we introduced Savage Wolverine in Issue #3 of Comic Stationthe idea of another Wolverine series that took place in the Savage Land sounded like a perfect fit. After reading Savage Wolverine #1 we conclude that ittakes a number of steps forwards, and a few steps back, but as a fan of Wolverine the it hits enough good nerves to make mesatisfiedwith this entry and hopeful for more.

While possible morally repulsive, Barry remains a " if not likable " character worthy of pity. It's most impressive that throughout Sidekick there isn't even an antagonist, no villain besides an already defeated one in the beginning, just Barry and his personal demons and the events that brought him to the creature we see him as today. There are rare any pages or panels that don't further the plot either through story or character development. Overall this first issue enjoys a solid pace despite its lack of action scenes. In the vein of personal favorite Incorruptible, it's these internal views with a dash of reality that makes this genre enticing.

When we first mentioned Star Wars #1 on the last issue of Comic Station, there was hope for the series. We weren'tdisappointedwhen the first issue gets off to an action-packed and insightful footing. If the series continues on this track it'll be a great jumping off point fornew fans while adding enough new details for old fans. It brings hope that the series will do the expansive history and legends of Star Wars justice, no small feat. Only Issue #2 and further will tell.

Star Wars #2 proves that the acclaim given the first issue was not a fluke. Despite the disappointing lack of Darth Vader and the clique team setup there was more action, more great interactions between characters and more Han Solo. The weakest moment, that of Colonel Bircher, can be attributed to his lack of background within the lore; however, the glimpse we do get portends to a greater part that he may play in the future. For now though, it's Leia who makes the biggest impression and is the number one reason to continue returning. This is a series any fan of Star Wars should be reading while Dark Horse Comics maintains rights to the Star Wars license.

While the art team does a great job of making the most of what is available the overall impression of the Darth Vader and the Ninth Assassin was pretty bland. Hopefully future issues involve more of the Sith Lord than this one did, or at least introduces more diverse and interesting locations. With the vast Star Wars universe at their disposal there's no reason this series be a great entry. Even if the focus does not center on Darth Vader a focus on the master assassin could be very entertaining. It's off to a slow start, but only time will tell if this series as a whole can enrich the extended universe or get lost in it.

Zachary Dolan and Justin Piatt have created a reverent parody of the comic book genre that will entertain fans and casual readers alike. The humor that runs through this massive first issue help pull readers in while quickening the plot further when not in battle. At first the parody might be seen as a crutch, but Super! quickly assuages these worries and overcomes them. This great writing, relatable characters, humor and action are what made a what I thought would be a leisurely reading of a few pages before bed into a complete consumption in one sitting.

When we previewedSuperior Spider-Man on Comic Station Issue #2,theconsensuswas "better than expected." Why take such a drastic change of course in a staple Spider-Man series if the ending sets up the expected? That being said, the true direction could go down another road, as Superior Spider-Man goes on and looks to be a fun ride.

The Black Beetle in "Now Way Out" is a little hokey at times, with gruff humor and expected plot twists, and that might turn some people off, but that's their loss. The art and writing are married so perfectly that they capture the essence of a classic crime novel while appealing to modernartistic quality expectations. Look for the video review of The Black Beetle in "No Way Out'" on the next episode of Comic Station.

A greater mystery is hinted at in the final pages that leaves the rest in it's shadow. What does Winslow's dream mean, who are the Regulators, what do they want with Winslow and what does the old man know about these events? Now that these questions have been established, the rest of the Dream Merchant series can potentially continue a more regulated pacing to fit a standard issue length. If it can do this, and most readers make it through the jumbo-sized introduction, there is a dream-world of potential in Dream Merchant.

The Last of Us: American Dream #1 is more than just a bit-sized appetizer before the game's full course meal. Those who are looking for more insight into The Last of Us will find this a great introduction not just to Ellie, but the world and life that exists that she must survive and escape. It truly fleshes out the characters and the world is another character to explore. The last scene hints at learning more about this world, for which I can't wait to see what we discover. With Hickman and Druckman at the helm, and the depth of the world to explore, American Dream should be a good read for anyone, not just those interested in the game.

The action and superheroes will attract a certain crowd, even the frequent cursing and sexual images being unafraid to show skin will attract readers. It's a shame that the heavy subject matter and confusing storyline will probably turn a number of readers off to The Victories: Transhuman #1. If you like colorful language with a side of action and sex, and want to maybe even walk away with a few introspective musings, then this is by far one of the most intriguing comics on the market today.