Tyler Harris Comic Reviews

Overall, a pretty solid first issue. Confusing in places, it left me wanting more, and I'm excited to see what comes next. As my first foray into the mind of Neal Adams, I'm not even mildly disappointed.Batman vs Ra's al Ghul hit the ground running, and it took us all along for the ride. Despite my couple of criticisms in terms of writing, the art really did it for me here, and whether you're a long-time Neal Adams fan or a newbie like me, I can't recommend this enough.

A really solid follow-up to a really solid first issue. As this is my first foray into the mind and world of Neal Adams, I am loving this, but am now more excited than ever to go back and read some of his earlier works. If you aren't picking up Batman vs. Ra's al Ghul, I can't recommend it enough. It's certainly not the absolute best Batman story I've ever read, but for right now it sits really nicely alongside some decent ones, and I feel it's only going to get better as we read the halfway point next month.

Despite how critical this review probably sounds, I hold out hope and remain optimistic. Have some of my favorite comic runs of all time had dud issues in the middle that I didn't like? Absolutely. But did it stop me from enjoying the series overall? Not at all. So, with some slightly lowered expectations, I head into issue four cautiously optimistic, having enjoyed Batman vs. Ra's al Ghul #3 but knowing that I just wanted something…more.

I feel as though Adams has given me Stockholm Syndrome: I can't stop reading these issues, though I know they're hurting me. They are not inherently bad, but I also am of the thinking that Adams isn't the Batman writer (or artist) for me. I'm deeply interested to see where this series goes, and with two issues left, I certainly hope it's been worth the wait.

I know some people who live and die by Neal Adams, as a writer and artist, and I respect that. This series, being my first foray into his work, is very likely the reason I'm so confused " and the unprecedented delays between issues certainly haven't helped. I would like to go back and read some of his earlier work (and perhaps all in one sitting) and then revisit this mini-series in full, once it's all available to me.

So - Batman Vs Ra's Al Ghul #6 - buy it, don't buy it, agree or disagree with me " I don't mind " but this" this was something else, and not in the way I would've liked.

All around this was a pretty solid issue, however I am glad that this arc is coming to an end, as I feel the story will suffer if it continues for very much longer. That being said, I am also very interested to see what comes next for this series and whether it will retain the tone and structure that has been cemented across this arc.

"The Professional" was an interesting arc to say the least. It provided a deeper look into the human side of Slade, but was at times hard to follow and a little confusing. That being said, this final issue delivered on the promise that Priest has been teasing since issue one and I am very excited to see what the future holds for Slade, Rose and Jericho as this series continues.

This first issue was a good start to the story however, and I am interested to see if Priest does a better job at telling a smaller story across two issues rather than a long and drawn-out one. Quite honestly though, as much as I enjoyed the story, I'm mostly coming back for Nord's artwork at this point.

Art wise, Nord's work was just as consistent as last issue. The unique art style really brings these characters to life in a way that is completely different to any previous interpretation, and that honestly saved this issue for me. I am a big believer in telling stories with a purpose, and while this issue did provide some more backstory into the Wilson family, it felt like an out of place mess as a whole. I didn't connect with the arc as well as I wanted to, which is a shame because of the strong opening issue, but alas - and I never thought I would say this - Priest is better at telling longer stories. It's a strange thing to say that this issue felt completely empty but also overcrowded, however it was still readable and told the story it needed to, so I can't fault it on that account.

It was incredible to see Priest tackling this issue with no sugar coating. Everything he wanted to say was put on full display, and despite the seemingly obvious stance that he presents readers with, it is handled in an extremely mature and thoughtful way. The art in this issue is provided by Denys Cowan and Bill Sienkiewicz and stands out as some of the most raw and heart-felt art I've ever seen in a comic book. The pencil work and colors used really brought the text to life, which made for an all-round incredible read. Priest and the team really brought it together this issue. This unflinching look at such a divisive and important issue was an eye-opener for someone like me who hasn't experienced it first-hand, so I can only imagine the impact it might have on someone who knows more about the issue than I. All I can say in summary is to read this book, because it might be one of the most important comics you will ever pick up.

Priest and co. have presented us here with a very solid first issue of the new "Twilight" arc, and with the arrival of Raptor and the showdown that is going to take place next issue, I feel like the conductor of the Hype Train - and it's full steam ahead!

It seems like all I do is sing praises for Christopher Priest when I write these reviews. Every issue he and his team find a new way to excite and engage me and this series has proven to me time and time again that Priest is one of the best in the industry right now. The art from Bennett was tight and gorgeous, and the overarching story became increasingly clear. "Twilight" is shaping up to be a solid arc, and I am excited to see what comes next.

I have to admit I had my doubts about this arc going in, but this issue proved all of my doubts wrong. Priest and Bennett are presenting one of the best books DC has to offer right now, and with each new issue I am growing more and more invested in this new "Twilight" arc.

Part four of "Twilight" was an exciting issue that reminded me of everything I love about this series. Priest and his incredibly talented team have stepped up the bar and laid out the groundwork for an exciting finale to exciting arc.

All in all, I really enjoyed this issue. It's mostly a set-up story wise, but it carried some of the most important character development to date. With only two issues left, "Twilight" is coming along as one of my favourite arcs not only of this series, but of the entire Rebirth line-up.

Priest and his team delivered an issue that made me sit back afterwards and smile. It was almost flawless in its execution, bringing together plot threads that have been woven into the series since the beginning. This issue has to be my favorite of the entire Deathstroke run thus far, and I am excited to see how it all comes to a head next issue!

A great jumping on point for new readers, Deathstroke #20 delivered in every aspect, bringing a great epilogue to "The Lazarus Contract" whilst also laying groundwork for the series moving forward. I think it's safe to say that this book is definitely one to watch over the coming months.

Regardless, what I think is best " and I know this is probably rich coming from someone who is writing a review " ignore the reviews you've seen and make an assessment for yourself. This is truly a masterpiece of cinema, and I think it will become one of the most important films of the century. I know how overblown that sounds, but even if you think the film itself isn't that good, the ripple effect this will have on the industry makes this worthy of your time and attention. See this film and let us know what you thought! Opening a dialogue lets us enjoy this film for longer than the 122 minutes it took us to watch it, and its in these discussions that its legacy will be cemented.

Overall, "Outbreak" has been an interesting story with some awesome moments, but I am glad it found the place to end without running too long. I'm excited to read the JLvSS crossover (which one of my colleagues has already written a review for here) and see what direction Hitch takes these characters in both during and after this event has ended.

Read the book. Really read it. Seeley does this marvelous thing where he uses insane amounts of subtext in his writing " more than most people really tend to look for. If you read Justice League vs. Suicide Squad #1 before and after this tie-in, it makes the story come together in a way that is really satisfying. So that is why the perfect 10 score. I have been pretty happy with most all of the Rebirth books since the launch, but this could potentially be my favourite issue so far.

On the art side of things, Eaton delivers a solid book and really manages to get across the gruesomeness of this new world. There is nothing amazing distinctive about his art style, but it fits well with Seeley's writing and really captured every detail. Overall, this is not my favourite work of Seeley's, and despite my problems with it, this issue is a solid tie-in for the main story, and it will be interesting to see how all of this is concluded next week.

This issue wasn't all negatives, however. The actual story of the team regrouping (as the title suggests) while trapped underground was a really strong piece of writing and honestly felt more like The Breakfast Club: Justice League Edition. The banter amongst the team members, the revelation that Batman has files on all of them, and the idea that Batman reads the jokes at the Justice League Christmas party honestly made this issue one of the nicest Rebirth issues I've ever read. The guest art contribution from Daniel Henriques was a gorgeous edition to Hitch's writing and made the whole issue feel grounded but still as surreal as a Justice League title needs to be.

Ultimately, Hitch and his team have set up a potentially interesting story in a somewhat confusing way. I am intrigued to see where they take this arc and whether or not things will smooth out as time goes on (if you'll pardon the pun). "Timeless" seems like it is going to make more sense with each issue, but for now I'm left happy, but confused.

ConclusionA very exciting follow-up issue to what could've otherwise been a boring arc. My doubts from the previous issue were all put to rest and I got to read an interesting and well presented set-up for what is to come. "Timeless" is shaping up to be a brilliant arc, and I hope that going forward things stay at this level - or continue to rise!

Part three of "Timeless" didn't really lead anywhere. If next issue delivers, this one will be made almost a completely pointless addition. We have a lot cool plot points left floating up in the air, but I have faith that Hitch and his team will find a way to bring them back down to earth.

There's certainly things to love about this book, but in this issue you would be hard-pressed to find many of them. The art holds up as well as ever, but the writing fell flat, though still enjoyable in some moments. I had my reservations about this arc from the beginning, and it's certainly been a roller coaster since then.

As the final chapter of "Timeless" closes off this arc by leading into the next one, I hate to say that I won't miss it. This arc was set up to be something more than what we got, and I feel as though even one more issue could've redeemed it in my eyes.

All in all, this was a strong issue featuring a mixed bag of stories that showcased a lot of new talent. If the future of comics is in the hands of these creatives, then we have a bright future to look forward to, indeed. I am hoping that DC might consider making more of these issues in the future, such was the way with the original anthology series back in the 80s, but I guess we will see as time goes on. This is definitely worth picking up; it provided me with an afternoon of delightful reading and I know it will do the same for you.

This year's New Talent Showcase features some fantastic work and keeps up the tradition this book has been setting each year in a new and exciting way. If you haven't picked this book up yet " or haven't ever read a New Talent Showcase before " this is a great year to finally make the commitment and do it. You can find these two featured stories amongst other stellar works featuring Constantine, Zatanna and Wonder Woman. Make the leap and buy this for yourself, or gift it to a friend! There is a lot of goodness here, and as always, be sure to keep an eye out for all of these writers and artists in the coming years as they transition onto books of their own!

These small complaints aside, this issue was a solid start to the Bldhaven arc and I am very excited to see where Seeley and To take it over the next four issues.

Overall, I am loving what this issue brought to the series and am excited to see how this arc progresses as the Bldhaven story draws near its conclusion.

Pacing wise, Seeley has been running a tight ship, however this issue felt too heavy with exposition and backstory. While I'm not complaining about a bit of backstory, it should've been taken care of much earlier than this. The previous two issues have been filled with action and detective work, but this one got a bit bogged down in its own narrative. Despite this, I still thoroughly enjoyed the story. I say it every two weeks but I will say it again: this arc really excites me and I am ready for anything Seeley and To throw at me. This pairing has brought to life one of the best Nightwing series we've had in a long time (in my opinion anyway) and to say that I will be sad when this arc is over is a gross understatement.

All in all, another absolutely solid issue from Seeley and To. I am loving this creative team, and with only one issue left in the "Bldhaven" arc, I just know it is going to be a good one.

On the negative side of things, I have to say that I felt like the action resolved itself kind of quickly. In saying this, however, it was nice to see the conclusion was given a solid amount of pages. It made the final moments of the arc feel complete and not rushed like some arcs often are. I would've liked to see more of a fight between Dick and Jimmy, but the conclusion we were given was a very solid final issue and ended the Bldhaven story. Overall, this arc has proven to me once again that Seeley's Nightwing is one of the best series that Rebirth has to offer, and the guest contribution from Marcus To has made this perhaps one of my favourite story arcs of any Batman Family series ever.

Seeley really stuck the landing with this "Bldhaven" epilogue issue. The execution was some of the best that I've seen in recent times and the set-up for the next arc felt meaningful and not shoe-horned in. I am undoubtedly more excited than ever to see what comes next from Seeley and his team.

ConclusionSeeley and his team have a long term and invested fan in me. The more I read this series, the more I grow excited for what is to come, and tying this arc to "Bldhaven," I can't hide how happy I am. The feeling I get reading Seeley's work is what made me fall in love with comics in the first place; familiarity, yet something entirely new and wonderful, and I don't want that feeling to ever go away.

Part two of the latest Nightwing arc has presented a solid and well-told story that dives straight into all of the most exciting things about a new arc. Where this book goes next " I have no idea, but I'm also theorizing like crazy! Cannot recommend it enough.

I feel as though you already know my conclusion. Get this book. Get all of this series. Wait for the trades, or collect them as they come. Do anything you can to read this book. I wish my excitement and love could come across even stronger on paper ("paper"), but it really can't. Bless this creative team.

Anyone who reads my reviews of this book frequently knows what I'm going to say: I loved it. This arc has been absolutely fantastic thus far and with Seeley bringing in elements from the Grant Morrison Batman and Robin run, things are shaping up to get even more exciting as time goes on!

There is very little to say that I haven't said before. Seeley and his team have delivered an all-round incredible arc that ended in this issue on a very strong and potent note. I cannot recommend this series enough to anyone who will listen, so if you only pick up one book this week, make it this one.

This weeks issue of Nightwing proved that you can have a one-off issue in between arcs still be just as fun as the arcs themselves - something that a lot of other titles in comics today seem to have forgotten. I was worried about the shift in creative teams, but honestly this issue felt just as fun as this series has always felt, and that consistency is one of the things that draws me to this book every two weeks when it hits shelves.

Nightwing proves yet again why it's one of the best books DC has to offer right now; in a solid opener to a new arc featuring a classic Nightwing villain, this is shaping up to potentially outdo anything Seeley has done before. This is also a great jumping on point for new readers, but if you haven't been reading this series already then you're definitely missing out.

Yet another brilliant entry into this fantastic series, we have now reached the halfway point of the "Blockbuster" arc. I find myself racing out to pick up this book every two weeks when it hits shelves, and implore anyone who isn't reading this series to do the same.

Despite all of the references to previous arcs and series, this issue could serve as a great jumping on point for new readers. Seeley and his team have set up a solid first issue for their new arc "Spyral" " and this is looking like one you won't want to miss!

A super-fun issue that was perfectly balanced and showed exactly what a team book needs to be. Teen Titans is definitely something to watch, and with it still being early days for the series, this particular issue promises some big things in the series' future. I can't fault it in any way.

Teen Titans #8 built from the solid foundation that last weeks Titans #11 gave us, creating a second part that leaves a lot of doors open for the final two issues, as well as future issues of the series. While it may not have moved the story forward all that much, it was still a very enjoyable issue.

A solid ending to a solid crossover, "The Lazarus Contract" and its aftermath will certainly be felt in each of the three books upcoming arcs. The oversized annual as a closing issue worked wonders in wrapping up the story, and was an all-round enjoyable read.

One of the most interesting and engaging stories I've read in a while, Abnett and Jung took this book to a whole new level that I didn't know was possible. While I'm already loving the current arc, this annual has made me incredibly excited for what's to come! If you read one book this week - this month - this year - make it this one.

Moving on to the artwork, Weeks really delivers in this book. His drawings are incredible to look at and while I enjoyed the work of Brett Booth during the first arc, I would have no complaints if Weeks decided to stick around, even though that seems very unlikely. All in all, this book was a solid brick in the wall of the DC Universe. The way Abnett handled the characters was amazing and just topped off with the solid art from Weeks. Moving forward, I am very interested to see what happens with this series. The move to Manhattan is an interesting one and will no doubt bring a whole lot more trouble for the Titans as time goes on, and I will definitely be there to soak all of it in.

All in all, I really enjoyed this first chapter of Titans' new arc and am super excited to see what Abnett and Booth have in store for the next couple of issues. The set-up was executed incredibly well and this strong groundwork will make the upcoming parts of this arc (hopefully) some of the best Titans action we've seen in recent times.

ConclusionAbnett and Booth prove once again that they know how to handle a team book. Titans has been one of the most consistent series of Rebirth so far and this arc looks as though it might be up with "Bldhaven" for me. I will definitely be picking up the rest of the series so long as it keeps up this incredibly story telling.

A satisfying conclusion to a solid three-part arc, "Made in Manhattan" was a great read and arguably my favorite Titans Rebirth story to date. I'm excited to get into "The Lazarus Contract" and see where this set-up is leading, not only here but also in Deathstrokeand Teen Titans.

A solid first issue to what is shaping up to be a Rebirth-defining crossover event. Titans provided a good backdrop for Part One, and I have complete faith that next week's Teen Titans is going to take this event to the next level.

An issue that I can sit back and say "I'm glad I read that - but I probably wouldn't go back." It was enjoyable to read and look at, and I am interested to see what this upcoming arc is going to be like.

All in all, despite my criticisms, this issue still kept me intrigued for what is coming next. While I can't say I'm the biggest Brother Blood or Blood Cult fan, the ideas are interesting and I will certainly be reading onwards. This issue just feels like a slight misstep in a series I am otherwise enjoying quite a lot, so while I may have appeared to talk down on it, overall I would still recommend giving this one a read.

This was a solid opening issue to what looks to be an interesting and different arc. The writing and references were at their best, and the art supported it exceptionally well. This arc feels like a good jumping on point for new readers, as it does take you through everything you need to know as the story progresses, so if you were ever indecisive about whether or not to pick up this series, do it now!

Despite my criticisms, I still liked this issue a lot and enjoy where the story is going. With only two issues left, I hope that we get to see the team in full action again as they fight their way to Raven, Kyle, and Steel. With a lot of the backstory and villain motivations out of the way in this issue, these final two chapters ofTitanscould stand up as the best possible ending to this pretty stellar run.

Despite all of the praise I am throwing at this issue, I am still only giving it a 9. I really enjoyed it, but it still felt like there was one missing element - I'm not sure what it was, and maybe it's just because I know that the series is ending with the next issue, but all in all my recommendation for this series still stands. It is amazing fun, and this whole arc is, as I mentioned two issues ago, just like DC's take on Dungeons and Dragons with the Titans.

Despite how harsh I may have sounded throughout this review, I did really enjoy this issue and this arc. As I mentioned, the art and writing has been top-notch and I cannot recommend enough picking up the deluxe edition hardcovers for this run because they are just gorgeous. I'm excited to add this final arc to that collection and round off this amazing series.