Randall Austin's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: Florida Geek Scene Reviews: 40
7.2Avg. Review Rating

6.3
Angel & Faith Season 9 #19

Feb 27, 2013

If you've been reading my previous reviews, you'll know two things about me: I like a good story and I'm fair (but strict) on my reviews. Angel and Faith is no exception. I gave the story and dialogue because I finally felt that I read a story that desreved it. Perhaps, I may be using previously reviewed comics as a gauge, but if good stories are difficult to find, then a 7 for a rating is well deserved.Christos Gage definitely knew what his fans we're looking for-more world of buffy and vampires. Gage is credited with the script for this comic. The story starts with a flashback. A young male and his "Gran" are at a disco club killing zombies. The contrast between the two characters brings a much needed intergenerational connection. "Gran" looks very similar to what you'd find in an older comic. This is essential for the story. We quickly find out that our young he is marked by Eyghon (a demon that claims your soul) and "Gran" knew all about it. She

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8
Archer & Armstrong (2012) #0

May 8, 2013

Overall, I really enjoyed this origin story. It was the perfect length and kept me interested. My only complaint is that it tended to get a bid wordy.

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8
B.P.R.D.: Vampire #1

Mar 27, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, B.P.R.D.: Vampire #1 is definitely one to add to your collection. In fact, by one for the guy that sits next to you at work and have him (or her) read it on their break. It'll reel them in!!!Not sure if you want to spend the $3.50? Here's a good reason. The other day I spent $5.50 on a half cob salad. It was good, but it's gone. I've got to buy it again and spend another $5.50 if I want more. But for $3.50, I can have a comic with a brilliant story completed by an amazing team as many times as I want. Totally worth it!!! Go forth and add this to your collection!

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7
Blood Brothers #1

Jul 17, 2013

All in all, I think this was a really interesting pick. Dark Horse comics may be onto something here. Add this one to my pull list!–RAN

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7.7
Blood Brothers #2

Sep 4, 2013

My fellow Geeks and Ungrownups, if you're looking for an engaging read, then Blood Brothers #2 is definitely the way to go. It's full of vampires, humans, chases, kidnapping, andhistory.Itdoesn't disappoint! I can honestly say thatI'm looking forward to the third issue and the rest to follow! Remember how I said that the story was predictable? Well, that predictability allows me to know that futures issues will not disappoint!—RLA

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8
Bloodshot (2012) #0

Aug 21, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Bloodshot #0 is a true treat. It tells us what we need to know about Bloodshot-quiet, empty, effective, and flawed. Rest assured that this issue is definitely worth your time and dollars—RLA

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8.3
Brain Boy #1

Sep 11, 2013

My fellow Geeks and Ungrownups, Brain Boy is simply awesome. It's one of the better comics that I've read in a while. Maybe I'm just in a good mood. To be honest, the story was engaging and the artwork was tight. The dialogue, even at it's worse, helped enhance the story. I feel confident when I say that this is definitely a comic you should add to your collection. —RLA

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3
Buddy Cops One-Shot #1

Mar 13, 2013

Let me say that Cosby and Shaner are not talentless. They just misplaced their talents Buddy Cops definitely appeals to a specific audience-this time, however, it didn't appeal to me. It is important to note that regardless of the audience, Buddy Cops needs to work on improving their story and dialogue. The jokes were crude and disjointed and each little mini-story was basically the same. Dark Horse stated that they proudly(ish) present a new comic. If this passes for the Dark Horse Level, I wonder what I can get published!

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6
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 #18

Feb 13, 2013

Before you dismiss running out to your nearest Comic Store, or purchasing this comic on your supped up electronic device, let me try to convince you otherwise. My review of Part 3 is, simply, the review of Part 3 of a 4 part series. I see a story as a journey from one point to another that has many good and low points. In all the books Ive ever read, I cannot say that Ive enjoyed every page, but Ive always enjoyed the journey to the end. Buffy, Season 9, No. 18 offers just one part of a story. It would be a shame to not explore the story more. While I criticized most of the elements of this story (story, artwork, and dialogue), the ending still left me wanting more. That alone says a lot about this story. I am surprised when I say that I would purchase this issue and the following issue. Surprisingly, when I look at the purchase button on my Nook, I know that Im going to hit Confirm for this issue and the issue that follows!

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7.3
Captain Midnight #0

Jun 19, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Captain Midnight #0 is definitely a unique treat. Normally, I'd say that Dark Horse Comics is usually a hit or miss. In this case, I'd say that this is a hit…but not a 9 or 10 hit. More like a rating of 7 or 8. This means that I would reccommend picking up this issue to see if you like it. If you like it, then go for the other issues. Let me know what you think!—Ran

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6
Captain Midnight #1

Jul 31, 2013

Captain Midnight #1 didn't quite win my confidence. Perhaps it was the busy day I had at work, or perhaps the story really lacked. I think what really sunk the ship for me was the heavy dialogue. I'm not sure if I would move to the next issue. But like many shows out there, I do try to give extra chances. I think it's worth a shot to read issue 2 and 3. This is a three part series, so you never know.

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7.7
Captain Midnight #2

Aug 28, 2013

So, all in all if I were to tell you whether or not you should read this issue, I would undoubtedly say “Yes!” It's a fun read full of action, invented vehicles, and hot women (don't judge…hot women sell in the comic market!). When I'm free on a Friday night and my buddy says “Hey man, c'mon out with us” I say “I'm on my way” The same goes for this issue. Give it a shot! Read this issue! I think you'll like it! —RLA

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6.3
Dead Man's Run #4

Apr 24, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Dead Man's Run #4 was interesting take on the journey to hell.It has some interesting elements like the band of criminals that helps the main character Sam find his sister.It includes a freaky group of kids that “chose” to go to hell (chills…what could a child hear that makes them want to go to hell?)I'm not sure if I'd get too into this series, but that's just me. It's certainly worth checking this issue out. —RAN

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7
Doctor Who Classics Series 5 #2

Apr 10, 2013

Overall, I think Doctor Who Classics is a good purchase for any reader, especially the Doctor Who fan.It's a blast from the past, and it doesn't get much better than that.I'll say this:This story is a great "carry around".It's divided into 3 parts which also makes it a worth while purchase.It comes with a great story, nostalgic artwork and coloring, and is family friendly.There's not much else to say except that you should, at the very least, check this story arc out.

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7
Fathom: The Elite Saga #1

Jun 26, 2013

The story, initially, was easy enough to figure out. This indicates that the elements of building a story were intact Kudos to the crew. Truthfully, I don't think enough happened to get my interest. It was truly the artwork that caught my attention.

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7
Fathom: The Elite Saga #2

Jul 3, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, I know this review is not as long as the others, but the truth is that I enjoyed reading issue 2 of The Elite Saga. My only complaint is that I feel like the stories are not quite long enough and I can't help but wonder if they'll be able to fit everything in by issue 5.

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8
G.I. Joe: The Cobra Files #1

Apr 10, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, this story arc is one that I would recommend to any comic reader that likes a deep character.It's not your typical G.I.J.O.E. comic based on cartoon.Instead, think G.I.J.O.E. meets 10:00 t.v. drama.In fact, I think you could make a television show out of this story arc.It is with confidence that I can say that this story arc is being added to my auto-subscription.You will not be disappointed.Now you know, and knowing is half the battle! – RAN (So sorry for that last line!Couldn't help myself!)

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7.3
Halo: Initiation #1

Aug 14, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Halo Initiation #1 is a real treat. While I can't say the artwork was superior, the story is solid. It is engaging to the story and flows fast enough. It even creates a desire in the reader to read again. The dialogue is a perfect compliment to the story. Add this series to my pull list!—Randall

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7
Harbinger (2012) #10

Mar 27, 2013

Overall, you get your money's worth with Harbinger #10. It's got a good, solid, ongoing story arc. The artwork is pleasing to the eyes and the dialogue gives you all the information that the reader needs. Looking for a new story about a band of telekinetics? This one's for you!

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7
Kiss Kids #1

Aug 21, 2013

My fellow Geeks and Ungrowups, KISS KIDS #1 is definitely a great way to get your kid into the world of comics and KISS. This comic is perfect for the KISS fan's children! It doesn't do much for me…and rightly so. If I told you that I absolutely loved this comic, you'd think that I'd lost my mind (being over 30). I did love this comic, but not for me. I loved this comic for my children and other children out there. I think this is a great way to get your kid into positive genres and comics. This is a great bonding opportunity…ok, I think I'm rambling. Here's the deal. KISS KIDS is an age appropriate comic that would be worth the time and money to pick up for you and your kid to enjoy!—RLA

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6.7
Mars Attacks Classics Obliterated #1

Jul 10, 2013

Read this issue for yourself. Tell me which story you like and why. Don't leave out on my own island all alone!—RAN

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7
Mass Effect: Foundation #1

Jul 24, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Mass Effect Foundation #1 is definitely a real treat. It's basically an origin story, and I won't tell you who's it about. Maybe it's already been revealed…maybe not. Eitherway, you should like this one!—Randall

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7
Mass Effect: Foundation #2

Aug 28, 2013

All in all, I'm not sure if this is the comic for just any reader. It's definitely a worthy purchase for the story alone. Let's put it this way, if you like the games you definitely should add this to your pull list. As a person that doesn't play the mass effect games more than a bit, I can also say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story. If you can get past the artwork, I think you'll enjoy this read. I see a lot of promise with this story."RLA

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5.7
Mister X: Eviction #1

May 1, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, I'd have to say that this copy of Mister X fell short of expectations. Overall, it was a lackluster performance. It felt like nothing happened in the story…even though it did. I feel like issues 2 and 3 will yield a deeper and more engaging story. Issue 1 of this 3 part story arc simply does not catch my attention.—RAN

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7
Mister X: Eviction #2

Jun 5, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Mister X: Eviction Part 2 of 3 was definitely a step up from the previous issue. It's beginning to catch my interest and I'm beginning to like being in Mister X's world. I don't usually go back on my reviews, but I think it would be appropriate for me to say go get issue 1 and read it. Then move onto issue 2 and read it. Let me know what you think!"RAN

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7
Mister X: Eviction #3

Jul 3, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Mister X: Eviction part 3 of 3 is definitely worth your time and money. Just don't expect a mind-blowing ending. Truly, it is the Mister X fan that will enjoy this issue more than anyone else.—RAN

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9.3
Shadowman (2012) #0

May 8, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, this issue of Shadowman is truly a work of art. At a 9.33 average score, I believe that this is one my highest ratest comics. It's creepy, engaging, and worth your time. Shadowman is truly a comic that stands out from the rest.—RAN

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8.7
Shadowman (2012) #5

Mar 20, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and geeks, Shadowman #5 is a real treat. You'll definitely get your money's worth. With beautiful, diverse artwork and engaging dialogue, you are surely to find a really interesting story. I look forward to the upcoming issues.

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8
Sledgehammer '44 #1

Mar 13, 2013

I rated this comic an 8 out of 10. This is one my highest scores yet, but I do not feel that this comic has achieved an epic level of quality. While it is one of the greats, I compare it to a recent comic that I read Transformers: Monstrosity. Transformers: Monstrosity offers multiple characters with depth and struggles. Sledgehammer 44 doesn't quite give me all of this. And for a first issue, one can only give so much information. However, there is only one more issue that concludes this story. It's in issue 2 that I hope to find my next 10.

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7
Star Trek #19

Apr 3, 2013

Truthfully, you get what you payed for with this comic.I say go for it.It was fun to read about Scotty's past.The artwork was good and definitely worth the money.

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6
Star Wars: Legacy Vol. 2 #2

Apr 24, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, this issue of Star Wars Legacy #2 was pretty standard.If you're a fan, you'll get your fix.If not, then you might not like this issue.I guess it's safe to say that the force is not that strong with this one."RAN

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8
The Rocketeer / The Spirit: Pulp Friction #1

Jul 24, 2013

My fellow Geeks and Ungrownups, I'd have to say that this selection was a great read. It's like pulling out one of your favorite movies when you were a kid and enjoying it almost as much as you did when you were younger. Ok, so here's the skinny…this is definitely a great selection for a fan of this Genre and these two superheroes. If you've never gotten into these, now may be the time. I'm curious to see if other's out there agree with me. Let me know what you think! –RLA

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7
The Victories (2013) #1

Jun 5, 2013

My fellow geeks and ungrownups, The Victories: Transhuman Part 2 of 5 is definitely an issue worth looking into. It's definitely an issue that one must read before continuing with the story, as it focuses on Metatron's struggles. To be honest, I thought Metatron was a cliche hero when I read issue 1, but now, I see that he's playing a much bigger role and he's not a cliche. I'm confident when I say add this one to your pull list."RAN

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8
The Victories (2013) #3

Jul 3, 2013

An alien invasion, an airborne flesh-eating disease, and an onslaught of death brought forth by the bull-horned cannibal known as Tarcus are just a few of the many deadly plans the mysterious cabal known as the Advisors have set loose against our heroes.

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6.7
The Victories (2013) #4

Aug 7, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, The Victories #4 Transhuman, is a descent part of the 5 part series. I think, perhaps, that I may be losing some interest in this series. I will, however, say that Ive been through 4 issues and am ready to finish. So good or bad, Im finishing this series. Let me know what you think–RANDALL

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7.7
The Victories (2013) #5

Sep 4, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Michael Avon Oeming's The Victories Transhuman part 5 of 5 is one of the best conclusions to a series that I have read in a very long time. It flows well. The story focuses on the important parts and leaves the reader wanting more. The artwork is one that grows on the reader. At first, the artwork seems forgettable. As the reader goes on, they find themselves craving the comfort of the artwork by Oeming and Filardi. The dialogue sets us up for the upcoming Posthuman story arc and I really am looking forward to it. Don't pass this issue up!—RLA

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7
Transformers Spotlight: Trailcutter #1

Apr 3, 2013

All in all, Transformers Spotlight: Trailcutter is an excellent addition for any Transformer Fan. It has all the components of a good comic, and a Transformer story. Surprisingly, this may even be a good choice to read to your young one"for the moral of the story. but then again, the Bots are at the bar drinking"which is odd. Since when did transformers have a need to drink?

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8
X-O Manowar (2012) #11

Mar 20, 2013

My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, X-O Manowar #11 is definitely a good catch. I have to say that I'm rather impressed with Valiant Entertainment. Hat's off to the crew of this comic. I'm definitely adding issues #1-10 to my collection!

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8
X-O Manowar (2012) #12

Apr 24, 2013

I'll keep this review short, but let me say that this issue is definitely a keeper. In fact, I reccomened that you get into this series. I believe that Venditti, Nord, and Bauman have a lot to offer and will take the story even further. X-O is the way to go—RAN

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9
Zero #1

Sep 18, 2013

I'm not sure what exactly it was about this comic. I feel that this story was original in so many ways. I felt that the true intent of doing good work showed through the art and dialogue. I think, for once, that I was taken by surprise. My fellow Ungrownups and Geeks, Zero #1 is definitely a treat. It reminded me of the first time I read Spawn. I was engulfed in another world and able to escape the coffee shop that I'm sitting in. Kudos to the team and the publishers at Image.—RLA

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